‘Misuse Of Social Media’: Allahabad HC Refuses Relief Over ‘Anti-National’ Posts On PM Modi, RSS
New Age Islam News Bureau
07 May 2026
Narendra Modi
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· ‘Misuse of social media’: Allahabad HC refuses relief over ‘anti-national’ posts on PM Modi, RSS
· Israel demolishes Palestinian homes and uproots trees in West Bank and Jerusalem
· Saudi pavilion at Venice Biennale turns fractured heritage into monumental art installation
· Was the east London former synagogue targeted in an arson attack really a mosque?
· US Muslim group urges Congress to condemn Israeli attacks on Christians
· Muslims Not Planning To Wipe Out Christians – The Sultan of Sokoto, Saad Abubakar III
· Singapore moves to block ‘jobless growth’ risks as AI adoption accelerates
· Bangladesh: Manusher Jonno Foundation demands sexual harassment committees in all madrasas
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India
· HC grants anticipatory bail to Muslim student accused of trying to convert Hindu classmate
· Terror outfit SFJ threatens Diljit Dosanjh for taking on pro-Khalistani elements
· Notable number of Congress Muslim candidates won assembly polls
· Shrinking space for Muslim MLAs marks post- 2014 era
· How judicial intervention shapes the doctrine of Essential Religious Practices
· PM Modi vows to destroy terror ecosystem on Op Sindoor anniversary, Cong says India fails to isolate Pakistan
· APCR launches hate crime tracker as Opposition MPs raise alarm over hate speech
· Omar Abdullah rejects claims of NC split as BJP eyes Jammu and Kashmir power
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Mideast
· Israel has ‘manufactured malnutrition crisis’ in Gaza — MSF
· Police officer, Hamas official's son among 6 killed by Israeli strikes in Gaza
· Senior Hezbollah commander killed by Israel in Beirut suburbs: source close to group
· Iranian embassy denies armed forces struck South Korean ship in Hormuz
· Pope Leo XIV comforts 13 priests from Lebanon with surprise video call
· Bahraini and British security advisors review military partnership and regional developments
· Lebanese PM says premature to talk of any high-level meeting with Israel
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Arab World
· Pilgrims can communicate with scholars through digital channels at Grand Mosque
· Saudi FM, Iranian FM discuss regional developments in phone call
· Saudi Arabia’s Diriyah Governor receives Qatari Ambassador
· Saudi FM received by Turkish president in Ankara, signs visa agreement
· Saudi Space Agency, Aramco Digital announce initiative
· King Abdulaziz Library to launch reading fest
· Saudi Environment Week continues to highlight sustainability progress
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Europe
· Moscow urges foreign missions to evacuate diplomats, citizens from Kiev
· Islamic finance to open deeper markets for Azerbaijan - IsDB Group’s Al Jasser
· The special relationship between Muslims and Labour is over
· Four to stand trial in connection with plot attack Galway mosque
· Empty Gosport shop to become Islamic Prayer Centre under new plans
· Muslim Vote endorses Scottish Greens in Holyrood election 2026
· Abergavenny residents launch ombudsman complaint over pro-mosque bias
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North America
· US blasts ‘wealthy NATO allies’ as terror incubators
· California gave millions to Muslim civil rights nonprofit that GOP states designated a terror group
· US attacks Iranian tanker after Trump’s ultimatum
· Los Gatos mosque wins approval to extend hours, but with 43 conditions attached
· CAIR-Texas Welcomes Removal of Surveillance, Defense Targets from Austin Economic Development Resolution
· CAIR-Chicago to Join American Muslims for Palestine (AMP), Allies at Press Conference Following City Vote on Resolution in Support of Salah Sarsour
· CAIR-NY Condemns Antisemitic, Neo-Nazi Vandalism in Queens
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Africa
· Detained Soldier Dies In Army Custody After Alleged Medical Neglect
· Tunisia court sentences former justice minister to 20 years in prison
· Peter Obi Will Never Contest Primary Election Until End Of Political Career – Kenneth Okonkwo
· Senate Confirms Appointment Of New Ministers
· C. Africa opposition leader banned from travel slams 'abuse of power'
· TPLF move to restore leadership raises tensions in Ethiopia’s Tigray
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Southeast Asia
· Second Malaysian Haj pilgrim dies in Mecca, 70-year-old Johor man succumbs to heart attack
· Parliament proposes special sitting on West Asia crisis
· Johor assembly passes Bill allowing appointment of up to five unelected reps
· Zahid dismisses opposition criticism over Bukit Bintang event, says PAS ‘no better’ when in government
· Kedah Sultan’s birthday moved from June 21 to July 5, public holiday changed
· Court grants Malaysian Bar green light to challenge DNAA in Zahid’s Yayasan Akalbudi case
· Selangor Royal Council defends Sultan Sharafuddin’s role, rejects claims of interference in state affairs
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South Asia
· Waqf administrator meets PM Tarique Rahman
· Over 4,700 Afghans return as UN warns only 11% are employed
· Foreign Ministry Expresses Condolences Over Deadly Explosion in China’s Henan Province
· Hanafi Chairs Meeting on Groundwater Protection, Water Resource Management
· Investment Applications of Returning Traders, Industrialists Assessed, Ministry
· MoIC Launches Strict Market Monitoring to Ban Fireworks Sales in Kabul
· Kabul, Tehran Discuss Expansion of Trade, Infrastructure Cooperation
Compiled by New Age Islam News Bureau
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‘Misuse of social media’: Allahabad HC refuses relief over ‘anti-national’ posts on PM Modi, RSS
Bhupendra Pandey
May 7, 2026
Narendra Modi
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Allahabad High Court news: The Allahabad High Court dismissed a petition seeking quashing of an FIR and chargesheet filed for allegedly posting “anti-national and objectionable content” on social media against Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the RSS.
The court stated that the applicants’ posts on Facebook amounted to a “deliberate and malicious attempt” to outrage religious feelings.
A single bench of Justice Saurabh Srivastava observed in its April 29 order, “On the face of it, the conduct of the applicant in depicting the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh(RSS), which is a organization rendering its services to the various sections of society with its allied organisation for last 100 years, along with the Prime Minister of this country who is indirectly elected by the majority of citizen of our country who invoked their right to vote for a particular political party.”
The applicants, Jubair Ansari and others, had approached the High Court seeking to quash the case lodged against them in Sonbhadra district last year under Sections 353(2) (spreading false news or rumours encouraging violence/hatred based on religion), 196(1)(a) (promoting enmity based on religion), 3(5) (acts done with common intention), 352 (provoking breach of peace) and 351(2) (criminal intimidation) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).
The petitioners also sought quashing of the chargesheet filed in court in May last year and the local court’s summons issued in November.
According to the FIR, police had lodged the case against the applicants and another co-accused alleging they posted anti-national and objectionable posts against the PM with derogatory remarks. The posts were shared and circulated from the Facebook account of a Pakistani Youtuber, it was alleged.
The applicants through their counsel contended that no specific date and time of the alleged incident was mentioned and that police lodged the FIR with mala fide intention and ulterior motive. The FIR is vague and without substantial evidence and is a result of a malicious intent to harass them, the applicants claimed.
It was also submitted that the magistrate issued the summons taking cognisance of the chargesheet “in a mechanical manner without application of judicial mind”.
The allegation stems from only a post on Facebook, they said.
The Additional Government Advocate opposed the application and submitted that the entire argument made at the behest of the applicants was subject to trial and cannot be adjudicated at this stage.
Court weighs in on social media
Noting “misuse of social media these days”, the court observed that people invariably post information and express their opinion freely and openly on social media.
“Sometimes, the line is crossed when such information is posted without understanding the consequence of such instances. Sometimes the social media is misused where people post such comments which hurts the feelings of others and triggers disharmony on a large scale,” the court observed.
“Social media is actually to express the views and opinions about any issues. Such rights should not be misused or overused. It is a duty or responsibility of every individual towards the society before posting anything in such social networking sites. In 2012, one of the early cases of misuse of social media came to the Government’s attention, when morphed pictures and videos of earthquake victims began to go viral on the Social Media. Miscreants were morphing these images to show that these women were Muslim victims of civil riots in Assam and Burma. This was done to provoke further riots by vested interest and it did bring a reaction,” the court added.
Another drawback of social media, the bench stated, is the “evolution of adult videos or porn videos which are so easily accessible by minors, which is resulting in the changing behaviour of the society”.
“At this stage it cannot be said that no offence is made out against the applicants. The assertions of false implication raised by the applicants are factual issues that requires proper adjudication by the trial court based on evidence. In proceeding u/s 528 BNSS, this Court is not inclined to hold a mini-trial. There is hardly any infirmity in the order dated November 15, 2025 passed by Additional Civil Judge, Sonbhadra and as such no case of seeking interface by this court is made out by counsel for applicants. In view of the foregoing, the application is devoid of merits and is accordingly dismissed,” the order read.
Source: indianexpress.com
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https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/lucknow/allahabad-hc-rejects-plea-to-quash-fir-chargesheet-over-anti-national-posts-against-pm-modi-rss-10676777/
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Israel demolishes Palestinian homes and uproots trees in West Bank and Jerusalem
May 06, 2026
Israeli security forces stand guard as excavators demolish a Palestinian house that was built without a permit, in the village of al-Dirat near Yatta town in the occupied West Bank city of Hebron, May 4, 2026. (Files / AFP)
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LONDON: Israeli forces destroyed two Palestinian homes in the occupied West Bank and East Jerusalem on Wednesday, citing failure to obtain permits for building, and uprooted thousands of trees in Hebron.
In the town of Al-Sawahra in Jerusalem Governorate, authorities demolished a two-story house belonging to Mustafa Zaatra. A home that housed seven members of a family in Shuqba, a town to the west of Ramallah, was also destroyed, the Palestinian Wafa news agency reported.
The two-story house in Shuqba, which belonged to Abdul Halim Thabet, had a swimming pool and playground. Forces were said to have fired live ammunition at the homes of local residents during the demolition, but no injuries were reported, according to Wafa.
In April, the Wall and Settlement Resistance Commission reported that 37 homes, 34 agricultural facilities, and five sources of livelihood had been demolished by Israeli authorities, primarily in Jerusalem, Ramallah, Al-Bireh and Bethlehem.
In the past three days, Israeli bulldozers have leveled more than 200,000 sq. meters of land for expansion of the Route 60 bypass to serve settlers, uprooting tens of thousands of fruitful grapevines east of Hebron in the process, Wafa reported on Wednesday.
Since the occupation of the West Bank, Gaza Strip and East Jerusalem began in 1967, Israel has implemented a policy of demolitions designed to prevent the merging of Palestinian towns into larger cities, and to enable the establishment of settlements or military sites between them.
The Israeli government faces charges of war crimes and genocide in the occupied Palestinian territories in cases at the International Criminal Court and the International Court of Justice.
Source: arabnews.com
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https://www.arabnews.com/node/2642584/middle-east
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Saudi pavilion at Venice Biennale turns fractured heritage into monumental art installation
May 07, 2026
VENICE: Saudi Arabia has unveiled a sprawling earth-and-mosaic installation at the 61st International Art Exhibition of La Biennale di Venezia, using traditional craftsmanship and references to damaged heritage sites across the Arab world to explore memory, loss and cultural continuity.
The exhibition, reported by the Saudi Press Agency, marks the Kingdom’s fifth participation at the prestigious La Biennale di Venezia, one of the world’s most influential contemporary art showcases.
Occupying the entire floor of the Saudi national pavilion at Venice’s historic Arsenale, artist Dana Awartani’s installation, “May your tears never dry, you who weep over stones,” draws from geometric Islamic art and mosaic traditions rooted across the Arab region.
Curated by Antonia Carver, with assistant curator Hafsa Alkhudairi, the work references 23 heritage sites recognized by international preservation bodies and affected by destruction or conflict in recent years.
“These sites are not merely stones — they are vessels that carry our stories and identities across time,” Awartani said in remarks carried by SPA.
“The work is a composite of many sites that are and have been under attack, and which hold significant shared histories that surpass contemporary borders,” she added.
The installation was produced over nearly 30,000 artisan hours through what organizers described as a collaborative “many hands” process emphasizing collective skill-sharing and traditional knowledge transmission.
Awartani worked with 32 artisans at a studio outside Riyadh, creating more than 29,000 sunbaked clay bricks from four differently colored earths sourced from various regions of Saudi Arabia, according to SPA. The bricks were made without chemical binding agents, reinforcing the work’s emphasis on raw materiality and traditional methods.
The resulting mosaic-like floor installation evokes both fragility and endurance, with repeating patterns suggesting the interconnected cultural histories of the wider Arab world across centuries.
Dina Amin, chief executive of Saudi Arabia’s Visual Arts Commission, said the Venice pavilion serves as a platform for leading artistic voices from the Kingdom while connecting Saudi visual arts to broader international conversations.
“This new commission has enabled Dana to create a work of greater concept, size, and intricacy than ever before,” Amin said.
Saudi Arabia has steadily expanded its international cultural presence in recent years as part of broader efforts to develop its creative industries and position itself as a regional arts hub.
The Saudi pavilion is commissioned by the Visual Arts Commission under the Ministry of Culture. The biennale opens to the public from May 9 through Nov. 22.
Source: arabnews.com
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https://www.arabnews.com/node/2642620/saudi-arabia
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Was the east London former synagogue targeted in an arson attack really a mosque?
06 May, 2026
In February, a Muslim community group announced they were making plans to purchase the old synagogue and turn it into a mosque [GETTY]
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A former synagogue in London has been targeted by an arson attack, amid ongoing media coverage of antisemitism which has seen right-wing and pro-Israel politicians call for a ban on pro-Palestine marches.
The East London Central Synagogue, a former Orthodox Jewish place of worship on Nelson Street in Whitechapel, had been closed since 2020 after its roof collapsed.
As news spread of the attack, so did claims that the former synagogue was now a mosque.
Last February, a Muslim community group announced they were making plans to purchase the disused synagogue and turn it intoa mosque.
In a statement released on Tuesday, the Ashaadibi Education and Cultural Centre said they had recently made a deposit to purchase the synagogue and "restore it into a community hub, providing space for worship, education, and provisions for women and youth, as well as a place for community development and fostering dialogue".
"We unequivocally condemn this cowardly act of arson and any form of violence or intimidation directed at places of worship and the communities they serve. An attack on a house of worship is an attack on all of us," the statement added.
Counter-terrorism police said they are investigating whether the attack is part of an arson campaign against the Jewish community in London.
Witnesses revealed there was an attempt to break the window and throw something into it, while CCTV showed two men wearing hoodies carrying out the attack.
Police said, "minor damage was caused to a set of gates and a lock at the front of the building", and no one was injured.
A group allegedly linked to Iran called Harakat Ashab al-Yamin al-Islamia (HAYI), which has claimed responsibility for previous attacks, noted the attack but did not claim responsibility.
The latest incident follows a series of attacks in March targeting the Jewish community in London amid the Iran war.
Just hours before the attack, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer held a summit in Downing Street focused on tackling antisemitism, saying he would be fast-tracking hate crime prosecutions, announcing an extra £1.5 million in funding to protect the Jewish community, calling the situation a "crisis".
Starmer has also threatened to ban some pro-Palestine marches, which have taken place frequently in response to Israel's genocidal war on Gaza, claiming that these protests were fuelling antisemitism.
However, the marches have been largely peaceful and usually include a large contingent of Jewish protesters.
The Metropolitan Police also announced on Wednesday a new unit of 100 extra officers to help protect the Jewish community.
On 29 April, two Jewish men were stabbed in the Golders Green area of north London by a British man of Somali origin with a history of mental illness.
He had no known links to the pro-Palestine movement and had also stabbed a Muslim acquaintance prior to the attacks on the Jewish men.
Since the incident, however, politicians and the media in the UK have lasered in on the pro-Palestine movement, claiming with little evidence that it is connected to a rise in antisemitism in the country, while doing far less to address rising Islamophobia despite reports of a 763% increase in anti-Muslim incidents since October 2023.
Source: newarab.com
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https://www.newarab.com/news/was-former-synagogue-targeted-london-arson-attack-mosque
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US Muslim group urges Congress to condemn Israeli attacks on Christians
06 May 2026
The US' largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization urged members of Congress on Wednesday to condemn Israeli attacks targeting Christians in the occupied West Bank and Lebanon, as well as remarks by Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir about hanging Palestinians.
The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) accused Israel of “attacking Christian worshippers outside a holy site” and “desecrating Christian religious symbols.”
“The members of Congress who vote to fund the Israeli military and insist that American Christians have a religious obligation to support Israel should the first ones in line to condemn Israel’s attacks on Christians,” it said in a statement.
The group cited reports of Israeli soldiers mocking Christian religious symbols in southern Lebanon and attacking Palestinian Christians gathered near St. George’s Monastery in the West Bank town of Al-Khader during feast day celebrations.
CAIR also condemned a video posted by Ben-Gvir that allegedly showed AI-generated images of nooses in reference to a death penalty law targeting Palestinian detainees.
Source: aa.com.tr
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Muslims Not Planning To Wipe Out Christians – The Sultan of Sokoto, Saad Abubakar III
May 7, 2026
By Enioluwa Adeniyi
The Sultan of Sokoto, Saad Abubakar III, has dismissed fears of a religious agenda in Nigeria, saying Muslims are not planning to wipe out Christians.
Naija News reports that the Sultan spoke on Wednesday at the first triannual meeting of the Nigeria Inter-Religious Council in Abuja.
The meeting was attended by religious and government leaders, including the President of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Archbishop Daniel Okoh, and the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), George Akume.
The Sultan, who co-chairs NIREC, said many violent incidents described as religious conflicts were being misunderstood, thereby deepening suspicion and mistrust among Nigerians.
He said, “Today, as I stand here, I want to affirm that Muslims are not in a hurry and are not planning anything like decimating the population of Christians in Nigeria.
“We are not in any position whatsoever to remove Christians from Nigeria. No, it is not possible.”
He urged Nigerians to promote stability, respect and better understanding between Christians and Muslims.
The Sultan warned against attaching religion to criminal acts, saying insecurity should not be framed as a religious issue.
He said, “Let us get the narrative right, it is not about religion. Let us stop bringing religion into it. Let us call them what they are, criminals, not Muslim criminals, not Muslim terrorists, not Muslim bandits. Even if someone claims to be Muslim, what they do goes against Islam.”
He also linked some religious tensions to ignorance and warned against false claims of religious authority.
“The fact that you understand Arabic does not make you a Sheikh. Arabic is just a language. So literacy is very important,” he said.
Sultan Seeks Dialogue, Trust
The Sultan said dialogue remained the only workable path to resolving misunderstandings.
He said, “In NIREC, we believe in dialogue. No matter how bad things are, we believe in dialogue. When talking, you need to understand one another, not just tolerate.
“If you do not believe me, what else can you do? You cannot open my heart to see what is inside. We must trust one another.”
On those who perpetrate violence in the name of religion, he said, “Somebody can go to the market, blows his or herself up, kill people and shout ‘Allahu Akbar’. Yes, God is great, but you are going to hell. They will suffer for taking innocent lives.”
CAN President Calls For Religious Literacy
In his remarks, the CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, called for stronger religious literacy and understanding among Nigerians.
He warned against reducing religion to stereotypes.
Okoh said, “Religious literacy is not merely the academic understanding of doctrines or rituals. It is the cultivation of awareness, sensitivity and respect for the beliefs and practices of others.”
He noted that many tensions in the country were often wrongly framed as religious.
“Across various parts of our nation, we continue to witness tensions that are sometimes framed along religious lines, even when their root causes may be social, economic, or political,” he said.
The CAN president said NIREC had shown that cooperation across faith lines was possible.
“Through NIREC, we have demonstrated that despite our religious differences, we share common values of peace, justice, dignity of human life, and the well-being of our nation,” he added.
Akume Links Knowledge To Peace
The Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, said understanding among religious groups was vital to national stability.
He said, “Where there is ignorance, suspicion can take root. Where there is misunderstanding, conflict can arise. But where there is knowledge and empathy, trust can flourish.”
Akume urged schools, universities and community institutions to promote accurate teaching about religions and worldviews.
He said, “Education plays a crucial role… Schools, universities, and community institutions must prioritise inclusive and accurate teaching about religions and worldviews. We must challenge our assumptions and resist narratives that seek to divide us.”
On insecurity affecting education, Akume added, “We must do everything as a government to ensure that the terrorists who kidnap children who are willing to study must come to an end.”
Source: naijanews.com
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https://www.naijanews.com/2026/05/07/muslims-not-planning-wipe-out-christians-sultan/
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Singapore moves to block ‘jobless growth’ risks as AI adoption accelerates
07 May 2026
SINGAPORE, May 7 — Singapore’s Parliament has unanimously endorsed a motion affirming that the country must avoid “jobless growth” as artificial intelligence reshapes the economy, amid calls for stronger protection for workers and more inclusive adoption of new technology.
According to CNA, Members of Parliament debated the issue over two days before passing the motion, which emphasises that economic progress must be fair, inclusive and supported by deliberate government intervention rather than left to market forces alone.
The motion, tabled by labour chief Ng Chee Meng and co-signed by other MPs, stressed that AI adoption is unavoidable if Singapore is to remain competitive, but warned that its benefits must be shared across workers and enterprises.
Speaking in Parliament, Ng said there was broad agreement that the transition cannot be left to chance, adding that workers risk being left behind if safeguards are not strengthened. He welcomed what he described as a clear national consensus that AI-driven growth must be actively managed.
Lawmakers from both sides of the House, including the Workers’ Party, supported the motion but raised concerns over inequality and job displacement, particularly among professional and mid-career workers who may be highly exposed to AI disruption.
WP MPs proposed a range of measures, including a national AI-linked equity fund that could provide direct payouts to citizens, alongside training-linked support schemes to help workers transition into AI-enabled roles. One proposal suggested a “social dividend” of S$500 per adult funded through government returns and corporate contributions.
Another proposal called for a redundancy insurance scheme that would replace existing job support mechanisms, offering displaced workers a fixed percentage of their last drawn salary without income caps or tapering payouts.
Manpower Minister Tan See Leng rejected the proposals, arguing that they were based on the assumption that workers lack agency in adapting to technological change. He said government policy should focus on upskilling and empowerment rather than compensation for displacement.
Other MPs raised concerns that unequal access to AI tools and training could deepen social divides, with some warning of a growing gap between those who can afford advanced AI subscriptions and those who cannot. Suggestions included subsidised access, shared community facilities and employer-led provision of tools.
Senior Minister of State Jasmin Lau said the government would focus on widening access and strengthening foundational AI literacy, including through schools and discounted training programmes for alumni and workers.
Lawmakers also highlighted the need for stronger transition support for workers displaced by AI, particularly in PMET roles, with calls for earlier intervention, wage support for employers hiring displaced workers, and closer coordination between training providers, unions and firms.
Closing the debate, MPs reaffirmed that Singapore must actively shape AI-driven change to ensure workers are not left behind, with continued emphasis on tripartism and coordinated workforce transformation efforts.
Source: malaymail.com
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https://www.malaymail.com/news/singapore/2026/05/07/singapore-moves-to-block-jobless-growth-risks-as-ai-adoption-accelerates/218993
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Bangladesh: Manusher Jonno Foundation demands sexual harassment committees in all madrasas
6 MAY 2026
Manusher Jonno Foundation (MJF) today expressed deep outrage and grave concern over the rising incidents of sexual violence against children in madrasas, demanding immediate formation of sexual harassment committees in the institutions.
The rights body’s demand follows a harrowing incident in Netrokona’s Madan upazila, where an 11-year-old student was allegedly raped and impregnated by her madrasa teacher.
MJF Executive Director Shaheen Anam said, "Madrasas are educational institutions. There is no reason for these to stay outside the ambit of the High Court ruling."
According to data from Bangladesh Mahila Parishad, 1,028 women and girls were subjected to various forms of violence, including sexual violence, in the first four months of this year. Of them, 479 were girls.
In the Netrokona case, the First Information Report (FIR) alleges that a madrasa teacher sexually abused the child multiple times since October last year. The case surfaced on April 18 after medical tests confirmed advanced pregnancy.
The accused has been detained by Rapid Action Battalion (Rab), though he reportedly denied the allegations on social media.
In a separate incident, a madrasa teacher in Patuakhali was recently jailed over the alleged sexual abuse of a 10-year-old student.
MJF noted that although the High Court in 2009 issued a landmark judgment -- reiterated for all educational institutions in 2023 -- to form committees to prevent sexual harassment, many madrasas have remained outside the effective implementation of the directive.
"Such cases are often suppressed due to the influence of perpetrators within local communities. It is time to break the silence and ensure accountability," MJF said in the statement.
The organisation called for the full enforcement of the Nari O Shishu Nirjatan Daman Ain (Women and Children Repression Prevention Act), 2000, and swift justice for victims.
It urged the government to ensure immediate implementation of the HC directives and expedite the enactment of the sexual harassment prevention law, which is currently pending in parliament.
MJF added that both the state and society have a shared responsibility to ensure child safety, warning that current failures are putting children at continued risk.
Source: thedailystar.net
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https://www.thedailystar.net/news/bangladesh/rights/news/mjf-demands-sexual-harassment-committees-all-madrasas-4169306
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India
HC grants anticipatory bail to Muslim student accused of trying to convert Hindu classmate
May 7, 2026
The Allahabad High Court has granted anticipatory bail to a Msulim Class 12 student accused of attempting to forcibly convert the religion of her Hindu classmate, Bar and Bench reported on Wednesday.
In an order issued on Monday, Justice Avnish Saxena said that there is nothing on record other than the statement of the alleged victim to show the involvement of the Muslim girl, identified as Malishka alias Malishka Fatma.
Saxena also noted that Fatma had no criminal record.
The case under 2021 Uttar Pradesh Prohibition of Unlawful Conversion of Religion Act is based on a complaint filed by the Hindu student’s brother, who alleged that his sister had been compelled to wear a burqa by a group of Class 12 Muslim students and was also being forced to accept Islam.
In a statement submitted to the police, the Hindu student claimed that the alleged events had taken place in December.
She alleged that Fatma, along with the other Muslim students, forced her to wear a burqa during an outing and also tried to get her to eat non-vegetarian food. She also told the court that the Muslim students had allegedly tried to get her to accept Islam.
Three of the Muslim students had moved the High Court challenging the first information report. They alleged that their Hindu classmate’s brother had been harassing one of the Muslim students. When she complained against him, he filed a complaint in retaliation, they added.
One of the students later withdrew her petition.
On April 16, the High Court refused to quash the criminal case against the two Muslim students. It also said that such a trend among young persons is “all the more disturbing”.
Earlier, it also granted anticipatory bail to another accused student, Aleena, Live Law reported.
Source: scroll.in
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https://scroll.in/latest/1092666/hc-grants-anticipatory-bail-to-muslim-student-accused-of-trying-to-convert-hindu-classmate
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Terror outfit SFJ threatens Diljit Dosanjh for taking on pro-Khalistani elements
07.05.26
CHANDIGARH: Sikhs for Justice (SFJ), the banned pro-Khalistan terror organisation led by Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, has issued a video threat to Punjabi singer-actor Diljit Dosanjh claiming that it will oppose his upcoming music concerts in the US. Dosanjh had taken on pro-Khalistani elements during his Aura 2026 concert in Calgary, Canada, on Friday and reprimanded them for waving purported Khalistan flags.
Dosanjh had asked security personnel to throw Khalistanis out of his concert after they raised anti-India slogans. The audience applauded him when he told the Khalistani elements to leave the venue.
Dosanjh has built his North America tour around tributes to the pioneers of the Punjabi diaspora. The Calgary incident partly overshadowed the theme of the Aura World Tour, 2026, through which the singer pays homage to the victims of the Komagata Maru incident and the revolutionaries of the Ghadar movement. He said that the presence of a massive, thriving Punjabi audience in the concert was a direct result of the sacrifices made by the early Punjabi migrants and revolutionaries.
This is not the first time that the SFJ has threatened the Punjabi singer with boycott calls. However, this threat adds to the growing concerns over security at high-profile events involving Indian artists overseas. Last month, pro-Khalistan supporters had created unrest during his a concert at Vancouver in Canada.
Source: newindianexpress.com
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https://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/2026/May/07/terror-outfit-sfj-threatens-diljit-dosanjh-for-taking-on-pro-khalistani-elements
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Notable number of Congress Muslim candidates won assembly polls
May 7, 2026
NEW DELHI: Poll results show Congress saw a notable number of Muslim candidates register victory in the assembly elections, with 18 out of 19 party MLAs in Assam being Muslims. Kerala’s victorious UDF has 30 Muslim MLAs, with eight from Congress and the rest (22) from its ally IUML. The two winning Congress candidates in Bengal are both Muslims. In Tamil Nadu, one Muslim candidate from Congress won, report Manash Pratim Gohain & Ambika Pandit .
Assam results show the opposition’s limited success in the state was concentrated in Muslim-majority regions, with 22 of its winning candidates belonging to the community and most victories coming on seats with high Muslim population.
The demographic pattern is clear. Among 22 seats with Muslim MLAs, five have 90% Muslim population, six have over 80% and eight have60%.
In Kerala, of the 35 Muslim MLAs, 30 are from Congressled-UDF. The party’s eight Muslim MLAs are from Nilambur, Ponnani, Kalpetta, Aluva, Aroor, Kochi Chadayamangalam, Vamanapuram. The demography as per Census 2011 of some seats from where the candidates won shows they are Muslim dominated or have a substantial Muslim population.The two seats it won in Bengal too have high Muslim population— Farakka and Raninagar, with 67% and 80%.
Source: indiatimes.com
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Shrinking space for Muslim MLAs marks post- 2014 era
May 7, 2026
NEW DELHI: Shrinking space for Muslim legislators is emerging as one of the sharpest political markers of the the post-2014 era, as BJP’s expanding footprint and the opposition’s changing ticket distribution strategy have together pushed minority representation down in assemblies. Data shows the number of Muslim MLAs in the country has fallen from 339 in 2013 to 282 now.
The decline has been steepest in states that matter most electorally. Uttar Pradesh, where Muslims account for nearly 19% of the population, now has 31 Muslim MLAs in the 403-member House, down from 63. West Bengal has seen the number fall from 59 to 37, while the figure for Bihar has dropped from 19 to 11 and for Rajasthan from 11 to 6.
While this is not only about BJP, its nationwide rise has changed the incentive structure for elections. In many states, the party has won large mandates with very little Muslim candidature, pushing rivals to balance minority representation with broader caste and community arithmetic. In Bengal and Assam (where BJP contested 90 seats and won 82), BJP did not field any Muslim candidate this time, unlike in 2021 when in Bengal it had fielded nine and in Assam, eight.
The Assam BJP dissolved its minority cell soon after all its Muslim candidates lost. Nationally, BJP has only two Muslim MLAs — Achab Uddin from Manipur and Tafajjal Hossain from Tripura.
The gap is stark. In Bengal, Muslims constitute about 27% of the population but now account for only 12.6% of MLAs. In Bihar, they are nearly 17% of population but hold about 4.5% seats. In Assam, where Muslims comprise over a third of the population, their assembly share is roughly 17%. Maharashtra and Karnataka have Muslim MLA shares of only 3-4%, despite Muslim population shares of above 10%.
Congress has the highest number of Muslim MLAs at 61, followed by National Conference with 39, and Trinamool and Samajwadi Party with 34 each. Kerala, Jammu and Kashmir and Tamil Nadu remain among the better represented spaces.
Source: indiatimes.com
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How judicial intervention shapes the doctrine of Essential Religious Practices
May 7, 2026
As the Supreme Court continues the hearing of the Sabarimala case for the twelfth day today (May 6), several complex questions are up for debate, including the doctrine of the Essential Religious Practices (ERP), role of court as a theological arbiter, and the scope of morality under Article 25(1).
The case concerns discrimination against women in places of worship, including the Sabarimala temple, and the scope of religious freedom under the Constitution.
In its last hearing on Tuesday (May 5), the apex court said that the religious practice will not “extend” to the “exclusion” of certain castes. “That is not religion, neither is it religious practice,” said Justice B V Nagarathna, a member of the nine-judge bench hearing the arguments in the case. What does the ERP say?
Essential religious practices
Having been born in the Commissioner, Hindu Religious Endowments, Madras v Sri Lakshmindra Thirtha Swamiar of Shirur Mutt (1954) case, the ERP doctrine is seen as a judicial standard to determine which religious practices are protected under Article 25 and and Article 26 of the Constitution.
Broadly, the ERP may be defined as core beliefs and practices upon which a religion is founded. Although the term “religious practice” appears in Article 25(2)(a), the prefix ‘essential’ is not there. The Constitution neither employs nor defines the word essential.
In the Shirur Mutt (1954) case, the court held that a religious denomination or organisation, under Article 26(b), enjoys “complete autonomy” in deciding what constituted “essential” aspects of religion.
However, in Sri Venkataramana Devaru v. State of Mysore (1958), the court moved away from the “complete autonomy” aspect, and firmly established the role of the court in determining the “essential” practice of religion.
Essential practices and character of religion
Subsequently, in the Durgah Committee, Ajmer v Syed Hussain Ali (1961), the Supreme Court attempted to distinguish between genuine religious practice and “superstitious beliefs”. It held that all practices characterised as “superstitious beliefs” and “extraneous accretions” would not be afforded constitutional protection.
Furthermore, in the Sardar Syedna Taher Saiffuddin Saheb v State of Bombay (1962) case, the Supreme Court held that essential practices are to be determined through texts and tenets of the religion. It also clarified that Article 25 did not permit the legislature to “reform” a religion “out of existence” entirely.
Similarly, in the Commissioner of Police v Acharya Jagadisharananda Avadhuta (2004), the Supreme Court put forward a test for ERP by asking whether or not the absence of a particular practice would fundamentally alter the character of that religion.
Applying this test in the landmark Shayara Bano case (2017), the apex court held that triple talaq would not form part of any essential religious practice as its absence would not change the fundamental nature of Islam.
Can court be a theological arbiter?
The evolution of the ERP doctrine through such judicial interventions shows that only those rituals, observances, beliefs, and practices that are proved to be essential and integral to a religion are protected under Article 25 and 26. At the same time, Article 25(2) of the Constitution places no restraint upon the state intervening in matters of secular activity, social reform, and social welfare.
However, the judiciary’s role as an arbiter in demarcating boundaries between essential practice and non-essential practice, secular and religious practice, and genuine faith and superstitions remain contentious. The concern regarding the judiciary’s capacity as theological arbiter is also being considered in the Sabarimala review case.
During the hearing, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta said “a secular court can’t decide a religious practice as mere superstition because you don’t have scholarly competence.” He added that “something which may be religious for Nagaland may be completely superstitious for me…”
The core question, therefore, is to what extent can courts intervene in matters of religion? Based on the language of Article 25(2), it is argued that determining whether a practice is religious or superstitious lies within the legislative domain.
Moreover, once a practice is recognised as religious, state’s intervention is permissible only on the grounds of public order, morality, and health. Thus, Article 25(1) of the Constitution sets some limitations even on protected religious practices.
Scope of morality under Article 25(1)
Article 25(1) of the Constitution provides that the freedom of conscience and right to freely profess, practice, and propagate religion is subject to public order, morality and health. This constitutional restraint upon religious freedom was designed by the makers of the constituent assembly to clearly demarcate between religious and non-religious activities.
It was evident in the Constituent Assembly debates on Draft Article 19 (later Article 25) where K Santhanam observed on December 6, 1948: “Hitherto it was thought in this country that anything in the name of religion must have the right to unrestricted practice and propagation. But we are now in the new Constitution restricting the right only to that right which is consistent with public order, morality and health.”
He added with optimism that the implication of these qualifications would grow with the social and moral conscience of people of India.
In contrast to public order and health, the notion of morality is dynamic and therefore often susceptible to subjective interpretations. Some argue that the term morality in Article 25(1) has to be appositely understood as being synonymous with constitutional morality.
However, it is conceptually misleading to equate public morality with constitutional morality. While “constitutional morality determines the mental attitude towards individuals and issues by the text and spirit of the Constitution”, public morality is seen as the governing standard in matters of faith.
Boundaries of religious freedom
Thus, despite criticism that the judiciary risks assuming the role of theological arbiter, judicial intervention has played a significant role in determining the genuineness of religious practices seeking constitutional protection.
However, the subjectivity and fluidity of concepts such as morality, ERP, and religious denomination seem to require case-by-case interpretation. The makers of the Constitution anticipated that the meaning and interpretations of these concepts would grow with the social and moral conscience of people in India.
This allows constitutional interpretation to remain responsive to changing societal values while attempting to balance religious freedom with other constitutional commitments.
Post read questions
What are the constitutional limitations on religious freedom under Article 25(1)? Discuss their significance in a plural society.
Can “public morality” be equated with “constitutional morality”? Discuss in the context of religious freedom in India.
Briefly discuss the role of the judiciary in distinguishing between essential and non-essential religious practices with reference to the Sabarimala review case.
To what extent can the state intervene in religious practices under Article 25(2)? Discuss with suitable examples.
Source: indianexpress.com
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PM Modi vows to destroy terror ecosystem on Op Sindoor anniversary, Cong says India fails to isolate Pakistan
07.05.26
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday changed the display pictures on his social media handles to mark the one year of the Operation Sindoor, which started this day a year ago, and asked everyone to do the same as a mark of respect to the armed forces and their success.
The profile picture of Modi on his handles on X, Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp channel have been changed to an image with the text 'Operation Sindoor' on a black background. The picture has a tricolour, with one of the 'O's of 'SINDOOR' filled with vermilion or sindoor -- a symbol of married Hindu women.
In a post on X, the prime minister said a year ago, during Operation Sindoor, the Indian armed forces showcased their valour and gave a firm response to those who attacked our people and every Indian is proud of the country's armed forces.
"As a mark of respect to our forces and their success during #OperationSindoor, let us all change our display pictures on social media, including X, Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp to the picture shared below," he said referring to the image he uploaded on his social media handles.
Taking a swipe at the government, the Congress on Thursday said that in spite of extensive diplomatic outreach by India following Operation Sindoor, Pakistan did not get isolated as it had been after the 2008 Mumbai terror attack, and has come in for praise from the US military establishment.
Congress general secretary in-charge communications Jairam Ramesh said, "As we celebrate the first anniversary of the launch of Operation Sindoor and salute the achievements of our armed forces, it would be useful to recall the following: The first announcement of the cease fire that halted Operation Sindoor unexpectedly was made at 5:37 PM IST on May 10 2025 by the US Secretary of State Marco Rubio who claimed that it was intervention by President Trump that had made this possible."
"Subsequently, the US President has repeated this claim over a hundred times in different countries without ever having been refuted even once by his good friend Prime Minister Narendra Modi," Ramesh said on X.
"In spite of extensive diplomatic outreach by India, Pakistan did not get isolated as it had been following the Mumbai terror attack in November 2008. On the contrary, its army chief Field Marshal Asim Munir has been embraced with extraordinary warmth by President Trump from June 2025 onwards and the world's leading sponsor of cross-border terrorism, namely Pakistan, has come in for praise from the US military establishment," the Congress leader said.
Operation Sindoor was carried out by the three defence forces along with the BSF along the western border, targeting terrorist and military facilities in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir from May 7-10, 2025.
This operation was carried out in retaliation to the April 22, 2025 terror attack in Pahalgam in which 26 people, mostly tourists, were killed.
Source: telegraphindia.com
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APCR launches hate crime tracker as Opposition MPs raise alarm over hate speech
Pheroze L. Vincent
07.05.26
The Association for the Protection of Civil Rights launched a website on Wednesday to track hate crimes in India.
At the event, Opposition MPs rued that senior ruling party politicians have made hate speech seem normal and questioned the legitimacy of elections.
The website apcrhct.org has a detailed form to report hate crimes. The site’s administrators use the UN-backed Rabat Plan of Action that establishes a high-threshold six-part test to distinguish illegal hate speech from protected freedom of expression.
During the launch at the Constitution Club of India, AAP Rajya Sabha leader Sanjay Singh said: “The data that we have in Parliament about hate crimes and riots is provided by the home minister. It is many times more than this…. But they do it cleverly. They don’t show it…. They show it in the form of riots. They don’t show it in the form of violence.
“How much do hate crimes increase from the speeches of the Prime Minister? How much hate crimes increase from the speeches of chief ministers?...
“Our Prime Minister says that we can identify by looking at the clothes. This means that he can identify who is a Hindu, who is a Muslim, and he speaks about this in the Jharkhand elections…. Now there is a CM of Assam, he says that stop buying things from Muslims. They will break their back financially.”
RJD MP Manoj Jha said: “I say, when you have a choice between whether to win elections or win the country, then winning the country will be the choice. What do people want? That elections should be conducted like this? For example, there are two parties in Israel, but it is difficult to differentiate between the two parties, Likud and Labour. Here too a similar effort is afoot, whether it is through delimitation, or Mr Gyanesh Kumar’s proxy, efforts are being made across the country.”
He added: “Only if there is a flood of people on the streets and Opposition parties give in to the pressure from the streets and refuse to fight elections — there will be a possibility (for change). Otherwise, you may have to increase the capacity of your (hate tracker) website.”
The APCR has compiled 3,576 religion-based hate incidents across India since 2014. Preliminary analysis indicates that physical assault (747 incidents) and attacks on property (376) are among the most commonly reported forms of violence. Frequently cited triggers include visible religious identity (908), the sale or consumption of non-vegetarian food (547) and the celebration of festivals (166).
The database currently includes detailed records from 2024 to 2026 (to date), documenting 1,153 hate crimes and 761 hate speech incidents, Fawaz Shaheen of APCR said.
Source: telegraphindia.com
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Omar Abdullah rejects claims of NC split as BJP eyes Jammu and Kashmir power
Muzaffar Raina
07.05.26
Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Omar Abdullah on Wednesday dismissed rumours of some of his MLAs deserting the party, amid speculation that the BJP might attempt to engineer a split in the National Conference to form a government on the back of its Bengal victory.
Asked about the rumours, Omar accused the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) of spreading misinformation and claimed that Mehbooba Mufti’s party had voted for its one-time ally BJP to help it win a Rajya Sabha seat last year.
“If some MLAs are making efforts to leave the National Conference, do you think I would be sitting in such functions? These are baseless things,” Omar said while presiding over an event in Kashmir’s Tangmarg.
“These are the same people who, on the directions of the BJP, supported it in elections. This is not something that we are saying. It is what the recent RTI reply has proved. There is no MLA in the National Conference who will leave the party to help the BJP,” he said.
An RTI disclosure has fuelled claims that the PDP might have helped the BJP win a Rajya Sabha seat last year.
The RTI reply claims that the PDP was the only party that did not appoint authorised agents to verify the votes of its MLAs in the Rajya Sabha elections.
Omar’s remarks came a day after Opposition leader Sunil Sharma said Jammu and Kashmir was the BJP’s next target and the party had been making plans for over a year.
Sharma on Wednesday said the NC was on a ventilator because of internal issues, but denied that his party was working to destabilise it.
The BJP made a concerted attempt to win power in the 2024 Assembly elections after a Centre-appointed commission introduced a controversial delimitation exercise that created six more seats in Hindu-majority areas of Jammu.
Source: telegraphindia.com
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Mideast
Israel has ‘manufactured malnutrition crisis’ in Gaza — MSF
May 07, 2026
GENEVA: Doctors Without Borders on Thursday accused Israel of having deliberately restricted food and aid in Gaza, creating a “manufactured malnutrition crisis” with particularly devastating impacts on infants and pregnant and breastfeeding women.
The report also examined what it said was the harm done by the US- and Israeli-backed private organization set up last year to largely replace UN distribution of aid in Gaza.
The medical charity, known by its French acronym MSF, based its case on an analysis of the situation between late 2024 and early 2026 at four health facilities it supports in the Gaza Strip.
That analysis showed significantly higher levels of prematurity and mortality among infants born to malnourished mothers, and spikes in miscarriages, it said.
MSF linked these outcomes with Israel’s blockade of essential goods and attacks on civilian infrastructure, including medical facilities.
“Insecurity, displacement, restrictions on aid, and limited access to food and medical care have had devastating consequences for maternal and newborn health,” the charity said in a statement.
The situation remained “extremely fragile,” despite a ceasefire in place since last October after two years of devastating conflict, it warned.
MSF called on the Israeli authorities to allow the unhindered entry of assistance and supplies into Gaza immediately.
“The malnutrition crisis is entirely manufactured,” Merce Rocaspana, MSF’s medical referent for emergencies, said in the statement.
Before the war in the Palestinian territory erupted following Hamas’s unprecedented attack inside Israel on October 7, 2023, “malnutrition in Gaza was almost non-existent,” she said.
Malnourished women giving birth
MSF said it had collected data from more than 200 mothers and newborns receiving treatment in neonatal intensive care units at hospitals in Khan Yunis and Gaza City between last June and January.
Its analysis found that more than half of the women were affected by malnutrition at some point during their pregnancy. A quarter of them were still malnourished during delivery.
The impact was clear: 90 percent of the babies born to malnourished mothers were born prematurely and 84 percent had low birth weight, the analysis found.
“Neonatal mortality was twice as high among infants born to mothers affected by malnutrition compared with those born to mothers without malnutrition,” MSF said.
The medical charity also examined data from 513 infants under six months of age admitted to outpatient therapeutic feeding programs in Khan Yunis between October 2024 and December 2025.
Of them, “91 percent were at risk of poor growth and development,” it said.
By last December, 200 of the infants were no longer in the program, but fewer than half had been cured, it found. Seven percent of them had died, it added.
‘Militarized and deadly’
Infants are not the only ones going hungry.
Between January 2024, when the first cases of child malnutrition were reported in Gaza, and February 2026, MSF said it had admitted 4,176 children under 15 years old — 97 percent of them younger than five — for acute malnutrition programs.
During the same period, 3,336 pregnant and breastfeeding women were enrolled in ambulatory programs, it said.
Thursday’s analysis also highlighted the impact of the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation — a US- and Israeli-backed private organization set up last year to largely replace UN distribution of aid in Gaza.
MSF pointed out that by late May 2025, food distribution points in Gaza had dropped from around 400 to four under GHF, which disbanded last November.
The food distribution points were “militarised and deadly,” warned Jose Mas, head of the MSF emergency unit.
During the period GHF was functioning, MSF said that facilities it supported in Gaza had seen “a sharp increase in patients seeking care due to violence perpetrated at food distribution points and malnutrition linked to deprivation of food.”
MSF teams had also observed a high number of miscarriages during this period, it said.
Source: arabnews.com
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Police officer, Hamas official's son among 6 killed by Israeli strikes in Gaza
May 06, 2026
GAZA CITY: Gaza health officials said Israeli strikes killed six people across the Palestinian territory on Wednesday and wounded several others, including the son of Hamas’s chief negotiator.
A senior officer in the Hamas-run Interior Ministry was also killed.
Despite an October ceasefire, Gaza remains gripped by daily violence as Israeli strikes continue, with both the military and Hamas accusing one another of violating the truce, AFP reported.
“Five people have been killed since this morning in strikes by the occupation on the Gaza Strip,” the civil defense agency, which operates as a rescue service under Hamas, said.
Gaza City’s Al-Ahli hospital reported receiving “three dead and a number of wounded following an Israeli drone strike on the Zeitoun neighborhood, southeast of Gaza City.”
A separate strike on the Al-Daraj neighborhood of Gaza City killed one person and wounded 10 others, including the son of Hamas’s chief negotiator Khalil Al-Hayya, the hospital and a security source said.
Azzam Khalil Al-Hayya has been “seriously wounded in the Israeli airstrike,” the security source told AFP.
Two more people were killed and more than a dozen wounded in Israeli attacks in other parts of the territory, the civil defense agency and hospitals said.
Medics said the airstrike killed Naseem Al-Kalazani, a colonel in the Hamas-run police force, when it targeted his vehicle near the Al-Mawasi area in western Khan Younis, in the south of the enclave, Reuters reported.
Kalazani ?led the anti-narcotics force ?in ?Khan ?Younis, ?Hamas sources said.
The ceasefire has largely halted the Gaza war that began after Hamas’s October 7, 2023 attack on Israel.
But violence has persisted, with at least 837 Palestinians killed since the truce began, according to Gaza’s health ministry, which operates under Hamas authority and whose figures are considered reliable by the United Nations.
Over the same period, the Israeli military said five soldiers have been killed in Gaza.
More than 72,500 Palestinians have been killed since the Gaza ?war started in ?October 2023, most of them civilians, according to Gaza health authorities.
Source: arabnews.com
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Senior Hezbollah commander killed by Israel in Beirut suburbs: source close to group
May 07, 2026
BEIRUT: A senior commander from Hezbollah’s elite force was killed in an Israeli strike on Beirut’s southern suburbs on Wednesday, the first on the area in nearly a month, a source close to the group said.
At least 11 other people were killed in strikes across the south and east, according to the Lebanese health ministry.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said his military had targeted “the commander of Hezbollah’s Radwan force.”
The source close to Hezbollah told AFP on condition of anonymity that “Malek Ballout, the operations commander in the Radwan force” was killed.
Lebanon’s state-run National News Agency had reported that “Israeli warplanes launched an attack, targeting Ghobeiri” in the southern suburbs, a Hezbollah stronghold.
An AFP correspondent saw a building covered in rubble following the strike, as people left the area with their belongings.
Many of the southern suburbs’ residents had already left after Hezbollah drew Lebanon into the Middle East war in March, and have not returned despite the truce in force since April 17.
A Lebanese security source told AFP on condition of anonymity that the strike hit an apartment in which Radwan leaders were holding a meeting.
Beirut and its southern suburbs had been spared Israeli attacks since April 8, when massive Israeli strikes across the country killed more than 350 people.
Wednesday’s attack came as US President Donald Trump said there was “a very good chance” of sealing a peace deal with Iran.
Israel has repeatedly bombed Lebanon, particularly the south, since the truce, with Hezbollah retaliating by launching attacks on Israeli troops.
The Israeli military said in a statement Thursday that an “explosive drone impact” wounded four soldiers — one severely — in southern Lebanon the previous day.
Continued attacks
At least 11 people were killed in earlier Israeli strikes on southern and eastern Lebanon, the Lebanese health ministry said.
In Saksakiyeh, four people were killed and 33 wounded, including six children and four women.
The NNA also reported strikes across the south, including several on the town of Yater.
Israeli strikes on Lebanon have killed more than 2,700 people and displaced more than a million, particularly from southern and eastern Lebanon and Beirut’s southern suburbs, since March 2.
World Health Organization chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said on Wednesday it had “verified 152 attacks on health care that resulted in 103 deaths and 241 injuries.”
“These attacks have resulted in the closure of three hospitals and 41 primary health centers and caused damage to a further 16 hospitals.”
The terms of the ceasefire allow Israel to act against “planned, imminent or ongoing attacks” by Hezbollah.
Visiting troops in southern Lebanon, where Israel has established a “yellow line,” Israeli army chief Eyal Zamir said they will “seize every opportunity to deepen the dismantling of Hezbollah and continue weakening it.”
Source: arabnews.com
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Iranian embassy denies armed forces struck South Korean ship in Hormuz
May 07, 2026
SEOUL: Iran denied on Thursday that its armed forces had been involved in an explosion that struck a South Korean vessel in the Strait of Hormuz this week.
Tehran “firmly rejects and categorically denies any allegations regarding the involvement of the armed forces of the Islamic Republic of Iran in the incident involving damage to a Korean vessel in the Strait of Hormuz,” its embassy in Seoul said in a statement.
In a post on social media, US President Donald Trump said Iran fired shots at a Korean-operated ship ?and other targets as the US launched its operation to ?open the strait.
The Panama-flagged cargo ship operated by South Korean shipper HMM was empty and at anchor when the explosion and fire occurred.
Korea’s foreign ministry said there were ?no casualties and the fire had been extinguished. The ship, called ?HMM ?Namu, would be ?towed to a nearby port for a damage assessment and repairs, it said.
An HMM spokesperson said the 24 crew remained on board the 35,000-tonne general cargo vessel.
The fire had broken out in the engine room and surveillance camera footage showed it had ?been extinguished, the spokesperson said.
Source: arabnews.com
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Pope Leo XIV comforts 13 priests from Lebanon with surprise video call
May 07, 2026
BEIRUT: Pope Leo XIV surprised 13 priests from southern Lebanon, near the border with Israel, by joining a video call from Rome on Wednesday, telling them they were in his prayers and that he hoped peace would soon prevail along the tense frontier.
The Lebanese Catholic and Maronite priests were asked to attend an online morning meeting with the Vatican’s ambassador to Lebanon, Archbishop Paolo Borgia. Once online, Borgia told them Leo was also present and would like to speak with them.
Leo makes an online appearance
The 13 holy men, from southern villages and towns, including Rmeish, Ain Ebel, Debel and Marjayoun, were pleasantly surprised.
“(The pope) gave us peace and his blessings,” said Father Najib Al-Amil, the parish priest of Rmeish, who attended the online meeting. “His words were reassuring, particularly as we live in constant worry over here,” Al-Amil told The Associated Press.
Christian villages along the border with Israel have been mostly spared intense Israeli bombardment that has caused wide destruction in other parts of predominantly Shiite southern Lebanon. However, the situation remains tense in southern Lebanon despite a ceasefire that went into effect on April 17, as Israel and the militant Hezbollah group have continued their attacks despite the truce.
The fighting had been limited to the south, but on Wednesday, Israel launched its first post-ceasefire strike in Beirut, destroying the upper stories of an apartment building in the southern suburbs of the capital. Israeli officials said the strike, which came without warning, targeted a commander in Hezbollah’s Radwan Force. Hezbollah did not immediately comment.
Al-Amil said the pope spoke in French with the priests during the video call that lasted about a minute and urged them to stay in their hometowns.
“Pray with me so that peace prevails. God willing, peace is near,” Al-Amil quoted the pope as saying.
The Vatican spokesman didn’t immediately respond when asked for details of the call. The Vatican did say that Leo had a meeting on the agenda Wednesday with the Holy See’s ambassador to Lebanon, though no details are ever released of such audiences.
When Pope Francis used to call the parish priest in Gaza, as he was known to do every evening during Israel’s attacks on the Palestinian enclave, the Vatican always declined to provide details, describing the initiative as a personal pastoral act by the pope.
Israeli actions in southern Lebanon worry Christian faithful
A few days before Wednesday’s call, the Israeli military demolished a Catholic convent in the border village of Yaroun, according to officials.
The military says it does not intentionally target religious institutions. However, in a statement Saturday, it stated it damaged a house without religious signs while destroying Hezbollah infrastructure in Yaroun, without realizing it was a church building.
The Israeli military said the building in Yaroun was part of a compound that Hezbollah militants had used in the past to fire rockets toward Israel, and it released photographs of an intact building at the site.
Two local officials from Yaroun and a nun who spent time at the convent in recent years told the AP that the photos posted in the Israel statement were of another building next to the convent that housed a clinic and archbishopric, and that the Israeli military had bulldozed the convent.
Lebanon’s state news agency also reported that the convent was demolished.
The convent demolition also came days after images of an Israeli soldier wielding an ax against a fallen statue of Jesus on the cross in the village of Debel sparked widespread condemnation.
In another incident, a photo that went viral on social media showed an Israeli soldier in Lebanon placing a cigarette in the mouth of a statue of the Virgin Mary. Israeli military spokesperson Nadav Shoshani in a statement on X Wednesday said the military “views the incident with utmost severity and emphasizes that the conduct of the soldier completely deviates from the values expected of its personnel.”
Christians make up around a third of Lebanon’s 5 million people, giving the small nation on the eastern coast of the Mediterranean the largest percentage of Christians in the Middle East.
In November, Leo flew to Lebanon from Turkey on his first trip abroad since being elected in May last year. The pope has recently revealed that he carries a photo of a young Lebanese Muslim boy who had held up a sign welcoming Leo to Lebanon. The boy was killed during Israel’s recent war with Hezbollah.
Maronite Catholics are the largest Christian group in Lebanon and the Lebanese president is always a Maronite, according to the country’s power-sharing agreement.
The latest war between Israel and Hezbollah began on March 2, when Hezbollah fired rockets into northern Israel, two days after the United States and Israel launched a war on its main backer, Iran.
Israel has since carried out hundreds of airstrikes and launched a ground invasion of southern Lebanon, capturing dozens of towns and villages along the border.
Source: arabnews.com
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Bahraini and British security advisors review military partnership and regional developments
May 07, 2026
LONDON: Sheik Nasser bin Hamad Al-Khalifa, Bahrain’s national security advisor and Royal Guard commander, held talks in Manama on Wednesday with Vice Adm. Edward Ahlgren, the UK defense senior advisor to the Middle East and North Africa, on the security partnership between their countries.
They reviewed coordination and collaborations with the aim of ensuring regional security and peace, the Bahrain News Agency reported. Sheikh Nasser emphasized the need to strengthen military cooperation with the UK, including the Comprehensive Security, Integration and Prosperity Agreement. Bahrain and the US signed this agreement in late 2023, and the UK joined it in January 2025.
An island country in the Arabian Gulf, Bahrain is one of 10 countries targeted by Tehran with missiles and drones since the US and Israel launched attacks on Iran at the end of February, bombing the country’s military and civilian infrastructure and killing a number of top officials including Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei.
Bahrain is strategically important as it hosts the US Navy’s Fifth Fleet but it has not participated in any direct, US-led operations against Iran. Manama welcomed the ceasefire agreement between Washington and Tehran in April, but called for assurances that Iran would not be allowed to acquire nuclear weapons, and for the protection of freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz.
Sheikh Khalid bin Ali bin Jaber Al-Khalifa, the deputy national security advisor, also attended Wednesday’s meeting.
Source: arabnews.com
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Lebanese PM says premature to talk of any high-level meeting with Israel
May 06, 2026
BEIRUT: Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam said it is ?premature to talk of any high-level meeting between Lebanon and Israel, comments underlining the dim chances of one being held soon as hoped for by US President Donald Trump.
Salam, in comments reported by Lebanon’s National News Agency (NNA) on Wednesday, said shoring up a ceasefire would be the basis for any new round of negotiations that might be held by Lebanese and Israeli government envoys in Washington.
Hostilities between Israel and Iran-backed Hezbollah have continued to rage in southern Lebanon despite a US-mediated ceasefire between Lebanon and Israel announced on April 16. Since ?Hezbollah triggered the ?war by opening fire in support of Iran on ?March ?2, ?the Lebanese ?administration ?led by Salam and President Joseph Aoun has initiated Beirut’s highest-level contacts with Israel in decades, reflecting deep divisions between the Shiite Muslim group and its Lebanese opponents.
Washington last month hosted two meetings between the Israeli and Lebanese ambassadors to the United States. Hezbollah strongly objects to the contacts. Announcing a three-week extension of the ceasefire on April 23, Trump said he looked forward to hosting Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Aoun in the near future, and that he ?saw “a great chance” the countries would reach a peace deal ?this year.
Salam said Lebanon was not seeking “normalization with Israel, but ?rather achieving peace”.
The current circumstances “are not ripe to talk ?about high-level meetings,” he added, according to NNA.
“Our ?minimum demand is a timetable for Israel’s withdrawal,” he said, adding that the government ?would develop its plan to restrict weapons to state control — an effort aimed at securing Hezbollah’s disarmament.
Aoun said this week the timing was not right for a meeting with Netanyahu. Lebanon “must first reach a security agreement and a halt to the Israeli attacks, before we raise the issue of a meeting ?between us,” he said.
Trading blows
Israel has carved out a self-declared security zone extending as deep as 10 km (6 miles) into southern ?Lebanon, saying it aims ?to protect northern Israel from Hezbollah militants embedded in civilian areas.
Hezbollah and Israel have continued to trade blows.
Lebanon’s Health Ministry said on Wednesday an Israeli airstrike killed four people including two women and an elderly man in the town of Zelaya in southern Lebanon.
The Israeli military said Hezbollah had launched explosive drones and rockets toward Israeli soldiers in southern Lebanon, injuring two Israeli soldiers.
It also said the Israeli air force intercepted a hostile aircraft before it crossed into Israel, and announced strikes on Hezbollah infrastructure in several areas in Lebanon.
More than 2,700 people have been killed in the war in Lebanon since March 2, the Health Ministry says.
The Israeli military says Hezbollah has fired hundreds of rockets and ?drones at Israel since March 2. Israel ?has announced 17 soldiers have been killed in southern Lebanon, along with two civilians in northern Israel.
Source: arabnews.com
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Arab World
Pilgrims can communicate with scholars through digital channels at Grand Mosque
May 06, 2026
RIYADH: Sheikh Dr. Abdulrahman Al-Sudais, head of the Presidency of Religious Affairs at the Grand Mosque and the Prophet’s Mosque, has inaugurated a cloud-based communication system to answer visitor inquiries at the Grand Mosque.
The scheme is part of the presidency’s efforts to enhance digital transformation and improve the quality of religious services provided to visitors of the Two Holy Mosques.
Al-Sudais said the system is an integrated technological framework that improves the flexible and efficient handling of calls.
The system directs calls to the sheikhs’ personal phones, reducing the need for their presence at specific locations, easing congestion within the Grand Mosque and enhancing the worshipper experience.
He said that the system uses a precise mechanism to manage and distribute calls, ensuring rapid response and accurate routing. It also enables calls to be transferred to offices within the Grand Mosque that handle inquiries. This enhances service quality and improves operational efficiency.
The system is characterized by high operational flexibility and adaptability to various working conditions, along with a commitment to quality standards through the provision of detailed periodic reports for performance monitoring and improvement. It also features call recording to ensure quality and allow for future reference.
He added that the system targets Umrah and Hajj pilgrims, and visitors to the Grand Mosque, facilitating access to esteemed scholars, enhancing the quality of services provided, and achieving a balance between speed of access and accuracy of response. This, in turn, strengthens religious awareness and enriches the spiritual experience of visitors.
Al-Sudais said the unified number for the cloud-based call center is 8001222100, operating around the clock. It distributes calls flexibly and automatically directs callers to the nearest available scholar, reducing wait times and improving service efficiency.
He added that the system works alongside the traditional free telephone system for answering inquiries, ensuring access to the largest possible number of beneficiaries in record time and providing reliable services that reinforce the moderate message of the Two Holy Mosques to the world.
Source: arabnews.com
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Saudi FM, Iranian FM discuss regional developments in phone call
May 06, 2026
RIYADH: Saudi Minister of Foreign Affairs Prince Faisal bin Farhan discussed the recent regional developments during a phone call with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi.
During the call, the latest regional developments and efforts to maintain the security and stability of the region were discussed, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
Source: arabnews.com
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Saudi Arabia’s Diriyah Governor receives Qatari Ambassador
May 06, 2026
Diriyah Gov. Prince Rakan bin Salman bin Abdulaziz received Qatari Ambassador to the Kingdom Bandar bin Mohammed Al-Attiyah in Diriyah on Wednesday, with the pair holding friendly talks, Saudi Press Agency reported.
Meanwhile, Dr. Mohammed Al-Issa, the secretary-general of the Muslim World League and chairman of the Organization of Muslim Scholars, received Issa Soule M’madi, ambassador of Comoros to the Kingdom, in Riyadh on Wednesday, the MWL said in a statement on X.
During the meetings, all sides discussed a number of topics of mutual interest.
Source: arabnews.com
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Saudi FM received by Turkish president in Ankara, signs visa agreement
May 06, 2026
RIYADH: Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan was received by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan at the presidential palace in Ankara on Wednesday.
During the meeting, Erdogan and Prince Faisal reviewed relations between their countries, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
Ways to enhance cooperation in a manner that serves their common interests and achieves security and stability for the region were also discussed.
Earlier, Prince Faisal met with his Turkish counterpart Hakan Fidan.
The ministers signed an agreement on a mutual exemption from visa requirements for Saudi and Turkish holders of diplomatic and special passports.
They also co-chaired the third meeting of the Saudi-Turkish Coordination Council.
The meeting reflects the advanced relations between the two governments and their commitment to strengthening coordination and cooperation across all fields to serve their common interests, SPA said.
The ministers stressed the need to leverage the capabilities and resources available to both countries and invest them to achieve mutual benefits, SPA added.
Source: arabnews.com
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Saudi Space Agency, Aramco Digital announce initiative
May 06, 2026
RIYADH: The Saudi Space Agency announced, in partnership with Aramco Digital, the launch of the second edition of the “SARI 2” initiative, as an extension of ongoing efforts to empower national talent and foster innovation in the space sector.
The initiative aims to attract undergraduate students from universities across the Kingdom and enable them to develop and launch small satellites.
“SARI 2” seeks to achieve a set of strategic objectives, including supporting scientific research and experiments, providing hands-on opportunities in satellite development and industrial space communication solutions, fostering an innovative environment among universities, and enhancing students’ technical and engineering skills in space-related disciplines and technologies.
The initiative offers participants the opportunity to form student teams to work on advanced projects, including the design of satellites for applications that support various technology sectors.
The SSA, in strategic partnership with Aramco Digital, also provides an integrated educational ecosystem to support participants through expert mentorship, intensive training programs, and workshops that enhance scientific and engineering skills, in addition to providing the technical resources necessary to ensure high-quality project execution.
The SSA invites students interested in applying through its official website:
Source: arabnews.com
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King Abdulaziz Library to launch reading fest
May 06, 2026
RIYADH: The King Abdulaziz Public Library, in cooperation with the Riyadh Education Department, will launch its 26th annual Free Reading Festival for public school students on Sunday.
Running from May 10 to 14 in Riyadh, the festival will bring together more than 100 schools, over 1,550 students, and a number of educators and teachers.
It aims to foster a love of reading and learning, expand students’ literary, scientific, and cultural horizons, and encourage teachers to promote independent reading.
It will also provide a platform to showcase student talents and strengthen Arabic language skills.
Through initiatives like this festival, the King Abdulaziz Public Library promotes reading through diverse programs and a wide range of books that foster pride in the Kingdom’s heritage.
Source: arabnews.com
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Saudi Environment Week continues to highlight sustainability progress
NADA HAMEED
May 06, 2026
JEDDAH: Saudi Environment Week 2026 is going strong, with activities nationwide highlighting the Kingdom’s progress in sustainability and environmental protection.
Taking the theme “Your Impact is Green,” the event reflects growing interest in environmental issues, with public awareness levels exceeding 84 percent according to the Saudi Press Agency.
This signals an ongoing shift towards more responsible practices such as reducing consumption, cutting pollution and supporting tree-planting initiatives.
The week highlights achievements led by five specialized environmental centers, backed by the region’s largest environmental fund — the Saudi Environment Fund — while promoting investment opportunities in waste management and recycling estimated at SR450 billion.
The National Center for Wildlife says key scientific initiatives, including the Red Sea Decade Expedition and the Terrestrial Decade Expedition, have advanced ecosystem understanding, strengthened biodiversity monitoring and supported data-driven decision-making.
NCW has released more than 10,000 animals into their natural habitats under rewilding programs and implemented 21 breeding programs for endangered species, while also conducting extensive assessments of marine and coastal ecosystems.
Several reserves, including the Farasan Islands, Ibex and Uruq Bani Ma’arid, have been added to the IUCN Green List. The Farasan Islands Reserve is also listed under the Ramsar Convention, while Uruq Bani Ma’arid has been inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List, highlighting their global ecological importance.
Other key milestones include the rehabilitation of 1 million hectares of degraded land and the planting of more than 159 million trees under the Saudi Green Initiative. The Kingdom has also reintroduced over 10,000 endangered animals into their natural habitats, expanded protected areas to 18.1 percent of the country’s total area, and increased the number of national parks to 500.
Professor Fernando Maestre, chair of the environmental science and engineering program at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, told Arab News that research in dryland ecology and land restoration was central to national environmental priorities. These include Saudi Environment Week and the Saudi Green Initiative.
Drylands dominate the Kingdom’s landscapes and are highly vulnerable to climate change, overgrazing, soil degradation and desertification, said Maestre: “Understanding how these ecosystems function, how they respond to environmental pressures such as climate change and overgrazing, and how they can recover is essential to design restoration and greening actions that are effective, scalable, and sustainable in the long term.”
The KAUST research program contributes in several ways, such as through SaudiNet, a national initiative developed with the National Center for Vegetation Cover.
“We aim to establish a long-term ecological observation network to monitor biodiversity, vegetation dynamics, soil health and climate across Saudi Arabia,” said Maestre. “These data will provide the scientific baseline needed to guide restoration, conservation, and sustainable land management.”
He added: “From my perspective, science-driven research is essential to ensure that restoration and greening initiatives are not only ambitious, but also ecologically sound and sustainable. In arid regions such as Saudi Arabia and the wider Middle East, water scarcity, high temperatures and fragile soils mean that land-use decisions must be based on robust evidence.
“By combining long-term monitoring, field experiments, ecological modelling and new technologies, research can help identify where restoration will be most effective, which species and approaches are most appropriate, and how to balance biodiversity conservation, ecosystem functioning, and the needs of local communities.”
Saudi authorities have issued 40,000 environmental permits, conducted 173,000 inspection visits, and deployed 240 air quality monitoring stations, alongside programs to protect marine ecosystems.
Meanwhile, the Saudi Authority for Industrial Cities and Technology Zones (MODON) has highlighted its environmental protection and sustainability efforts during Saudi Environment Week 2026.
The organization highlighted initiatives aimed at advancing the circular economy, including 800 field visits to factories across three regions, with 100 facilities selected for specialized recycling and industrial waste management plans to improve efficiency and reduce emissions.
MODON also presented its environmental management system, which provides real-time monitoring of climate indicators and air quality across 11 industrial cities through round-the-clock monitoring stations, supporting emission control and future planning. The authority said it was developing a comprehensive strategy to achieve net-zero emissions by 2060, in line with the Saudi Green Initiative and Vision 2030.
Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia has highlighted the importance of stronger international cooperation to tackle escalating global water challenges through integrated diplomacy, financing, capacity building and innovation.
Speaking at the 5th Istanbul International Water Forum, which took place this week, Deputy Minister for Water Abdulaziz Al-Shaibani said water should be viewed not as a sectoral issue but as a strategic economic link connecting climate, food, energy, health and ecosystems.
Al-Shaibani said the Kingdom’s participation supported preparations to host the 11th World Water Forum in Riyadh next year, with a focus on shifting from dialogue to implementation by aligning thematic, regional and political tracks and enhancing youth engagement.
In partnership with the World Water Council, the Saudi delegation also held a session outlining progress on preparations for the Riyadh forum and the upcoming stakeholder consultation meeting scheduled for late June in Jeddah, alongside Saudi Water Week.
Source: arabnews.com
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Europe
Moscow urges foreign missions to evacuate diplomats, citizens from Kiev
6 May, 2026
Moscow has formally warned all diplomatic missions and international organizations about a potential large-scale retaliatory strike on Kiev, urging them to leave the Ukrainian capital immediately, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova has said.
Earlier this week, the Russian Defense Ministry announced a two-day ceasefire on May 8-9 to mark the end of World War II in Europe, urging Kiev to follow suit and warning of a potential large-scale retaliatory strike on Kiev. The ministry pointed to comments made by Ukrainian leader Vladimir Zelensky earlier in the day, which it said contained threats to target Moscow during the Victory Day celebrations.
Moscow’s warning must be taken with the utmost seriousness, Zakharova said in a statement on Wednesday. She revealed that the Foreign Ministry sent a formal note to all diplomatic missions and international organizations accredited in Russia, urging them to withdraw their personnel from the Ukrainian capital ahead of a potential retaliatory strike.
“The Foreign Ministry urgently calls on the government of your country/the leadership of your organization to treat this statement with the utmost seriousness and to ensure the timely evacuation from the city of Kiev of the personnel of diplomatic and other missions, as well as civilians, in view of the inevitable retaliatory strike by the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation on Kiev, including against decision-making centers” should Ukraine proceed with its “criminal terrorist plans,” the note reads, as quoted by Zakharova.
Russia is aware of the Western attitude toward Victory Day and the efforts to “rewrite history” and “systematically destroy Soviet memorial heritage,” Zakharova stated. “As they continue to supply Ukraine with weapons, they are acting as accomplices in the criminal plans hatched by the Kiev regime. However, the instinct for self-preservation should not fail them.”
It still remains unclear whether Kiev will heed Moscow’s call and observe the May 8-9 ceasefire. After the Russian Defense Ministry’s announcement, Zelensky called the truce “unfair” and claimed that “no one officially suggested anything” to Kiev. Hours later, he unilaterally declared a ceasefire starting at midnight on the night of May 5-6, adding that Kiev would “act reciprocally” to Moscow’s actions.
Russia did not provide an official response to Zelensky’s announcement. While media reports suggest that the intensity of long-range strikes launched by both sides has waned, the hostilities continue. Despite the lack of confirmation from Russia regarding its adherence to the Zelensky-proposed truce, the Ukrainian leader accused it of violating the supposed ceasefire nearly 2,000 times throughout Wednesday and choosing “an obvious spurning… of saving lives.”
Throughout the Ukraine conflict, Russia has repeatedly declared ceasefires during major holidays. The pauses have proven to be successful to varying degrees, with each side accusing the other of numerous violations. Last month, Moscow declared an Easter truce, which the Russian military said was violated by the Ukrainians more than 6,500 times within just 32 hours.
Source: rt.com
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Islamic finance to open deeper markets for Azerbaijan - IsDB Group’s Al Jasser
7 May 2026
BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 7. Islamic finance instruments will enable Azerbaijan to get access to a deep market, Chairman of the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Group Dr. Muhammad Sulaiman Al Jasser said in an exclusive interview with Trend, as he visited Azerbaijan.
Al Jasser noted that the government has taken a very positive approach to the Islamic financing development in the country.
“First, they have developed Islamic banking mechanisms, including the necessary regulatory framework for a well-functioning Islamic finance market. That has already been put in place, and we have provided technical assistance in this regard. Second, as we speak about diversification, we also want to diversify sources of finance, so that both investors and the government have a wider range of instruments to choose from. Sukuk and other Islamic finance instruments will now be available, enabling Azerbaijan to get access to a deep market,” he said.
The IsDB Group chairman noted that Islamic finance today is a market of about 3.5 trillion dollars, so this also gives access to a bigger market, while maintaining access to traditional markets.
“In effect, it broadens the base and increases the availability of finance for projects needed at this stage of development. It is about diversifying sources of finance, which in turn supports the wider diversification of the economy—whether in agriculture, industry, digital development, or renewable energy. There is already a lot that the country is doing, and even more that it can do going forward. We believe Islamic finance can provide additional support to that process,” he explained.
Source: trend.az
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The special relationship between Muslims and Labour is over
7 May 2026
Labour is facing a collapse in support among British Muslim voters in this week’s local elections. The votes of many Muslims are instead likely to go to pro-Gaza independents and the Green Party. The bad news doesn’t end there for Labour: if there was a general election tomorrow, only a third of Muslim voters would support the party, according to a poll released ahead of today’s local elections.
The scale of disaffection with Labour on the part of many British Muslims is laid out in research undertaken by JL Partners for the Policy Exchange think tank. The survey looked at political views among 1,006 Muslim adults in key metropolitan areas including London, the West Midlands and Greater Manchester – parts of the country where support for Labour among British Muslims has traditionally been very strong.
The survey found that the war in Gaza ranks high in their list of concerns: three in five Muslims would consider backing candidates standing on a pro-Palestinian platform to stop Keir Starmer at the elections.
Support for Labour among Muslim voters has fallen sharply since the last general election, dropping from 41 per cent in 2024 to 33 per cent now. Meanwhile, support for the Green Party has risen from 18 per cent to 27 per cent. This survey demonstrates two obvious truths. First, Labour is haemorrhaging support among a voting demographic that has previously supported it in huge numbers. Second, some Muslim votes in the local elections will be cast not on local issues but on what is happening thousands of miles away in the Middle East. That says nothing good about the state of democracy.
Just as troubling are some other trends revealed in the polling. It uncovered a stark difference in British Muslim attitudes compared to the rest of the general public. It found that almost two thirds of Muslims rank their religious identity above their British nationality. It also revealed a greater hostility to Jews among Muslims, with just over a fifth saying they feel unfavourably towards them compared to just 11 per cent of the general population. A quarter of Muslim respondents said they had a favourable view of the proscribed terror group Hamas. Support for gender segregation in public spaces was also higher than among the general population.
What exactly is going on here? The general level of discontent in Muslim communities appears to be high. Many feel that Labour has – for too long – taken their votes for granted. The issue of Gaza, and the wider conflict in the Middle East, is a source of widespread disillusionment, with many Muslims accusing Labour of failing to listen sufficiently to their concerns.
Gaza has become something of a lightning rod, prompting Muslim voters to look for ways to punish Labour. Gaza-focused independent candidates have taken advantage of this simmering anger and discontent. This could prove hugely significant in today’s elections because polling is taking place in several cities and large towns where small shifts or turnout in the Muslim vote could be the decisive factor.
This is the nightmare scenario for Labour, which is already losing ground to parties across the political spectrum. More broadly, Labour is still haunted by what happened in certain key seats with large Muslim populations in the general election in 2024. The Muslim Vote (TMV), a relatively new pressure group formed in 2023, managed to successfully mobilise Muslim voter support to such a degree that five Labour candidates lost to pro-Gaza independents. The most headline-grabbing political scalp on election night was the former shadow cabinet minister, Jonathan Ashworth, who lost his Leicester South seat to independent candidate, Shockat Adam. The group endorsed the successful Green candidate Hannah Spencer in the Gorton and Denton by-election – another constituency with a large number of Muslim voters – in February. The TMV website focuses on seats where this demographic can influence the outcome. “Make the Muslim Vote Count, “it proclaims, offering information on seats where the community can influence the outcome. TMV are confident that independents – or indeed Green candidates – backed by them will win council seats.
What might be called the special relationship between Muslims and Labour is no more. The British Muslim community is much more electorally fickle than before, seemingly determined to punish or reward political parties based on their foreign policy stance on issues like Gaza rather than matters closer to home. It is yet more evidence of how a volatile political landscape is producing seismic changes with far-reaching consequences.
Source: spectator.com
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Four to stand trial in connection with plot attack Galway mosque
7 May 2026
Four men are to stand trial at the nonjury Special Criminal Court charged in connection with a plot to carry out a terrorist attack on a mosque in Galway last November.
The four accused – Darren Gorman (33 ), O’Moore Place, Portlaoise, Co Laois; Charles Flynn (35 ), Castlerock Avenue, Castleconnell, Co Limerick; Garrett Pollock (35 ), Kilhorne Greene, Annalong, Co Down; and Karolis Peckauskas (38 ), Newfoundwell Road, Drogheda, Co Louth – are all charged with attempting to engage in a terrorist activity or a terrorist-linked activity to damage by fire Maryam Mosque, Old Cottages, Monivea Road, Galway, between November 4 and 5, 2025. The alleged offence was aggravated by hatred.
Peckauskas and Pollock are also accused of having two hatchets, a knuckle duster and a hunting knife in a silver BMW at O’Moore Place, Portlaoise, on November 4th, 2025, contrary to Section 9 (5 ) of the Firearms and Offensive Weapons Act, 1990.
Peckauskas and Pollock are further charged with possession of an explosive substance – four threaded pipe end caps and six litres of hydrogen peroxide – under such circumstances as to give rise to a reasonable suspicion that they did not have it in their possession for a lawful object at O’Moore Place.
Pollock is also charged with having in his possession an explosive substance – EMCG1 – a glass jar with a metal lid, a cloth fuse, matches and tape in addition to EMCG5-EMCG10 liquids and white clumped powders, all containing petrol, at An Tobar, Newfoundwell Road, Drogheda, on the same date.
A State solicitor on Friday made an ex-parte application (where only one side is represented ) on behalf of the Director of Public Prosecutions to have the four accused tried before the Special Criminal Court, with the charges having been sent forward from the District Court last month.
Judge Patrick McGrath, presiding, sitting with Judge Sarah Berkeley and Judge Fiona Lydon, made the order in respect of each of the accused and adjourned the matter to May 11th.
He directed that the defendants be produced in person on that date.
Source: advertiser.ie
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Empty Gosport shop to become Islamic Prayer Centre under new plans
By Kelly Brown
6 May 2026
A former shop could become a place of worship
An empty shop unit in Gosport is set to be transformed into an Islamic prayer centre.
A planning application has been submitted to Gosport Borough Council seeking permission to transform the empty shop in Forton Road into place of worship and an education centre. The retail unit has been empty for a number of years, having previously been a bridal shop and a fabric shop.
The application said: “The owners purchased the property with an aim to provide a meeting hall and community facility for a place of worship. They currently lease a unit in Rowner where the Gosport Islamic Society runs weekly prayer meetings on Fridays.
“This means many members of the community need to travel by car so when the opportunity came to purchase the unit to which this application relates the society took up the option as many members live in close vicinity and most would be able to walk to the unit.
“The premises have been vacant for over four years and marketed without success. The premises were only sold via an auction and the previous business we understand had left the unit nearly five years ago and no new retailer has taken the unit on since.
“It’s obvious the local community (Gosport Islamic Society) would benefit significantly from the change of use of this site as many of its community live within close proximity which is why they had searched for an waiting for a suitable premise in this locality.
“The community estimate as with their current location that between 50- 60 members will use the facility. However, it's important to point out that this number would only be for Friday afternoon prayers at about 1pm. This would last for approximately one hour.
“This number would also only apply to the two annual religious festivals (Eid ul Fitr and Eid ul Adha). These additional prayers would take place at approximately 8.30am and would be similar in duration to the Friday prayer meetings.”
The application added that the site would never be used for any more than five hours a day in total for prayers at sunrise, noon, late afternoon, sunset and at night.
Source: portsmouth.co.uk
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Muslim Vote endorses Scottish Greens in Holyrood election 2026
6 MAY 2026
By Lucy Jackson
THE Scottish Greens have welcomed an endorsement by a prominent Muslim coalition ahead of Thursday's Holyrood election.
The Muslim Vote Scotland, a coalition of Muslim organisations and individuals, has backed the Scottish Greens on the regional ballot in every part of Scotland ahead of tomorrow's election.
It comes after the Scottish Greens expressed support for The Muslim Vote Scotland's policy pledges, including action to tackle inequality, support Scotland's diverse communities and oppose Israel's genocide in Gaza.
Commenting, Scottish Greens co-leader Gillian Mackay said: “This is a hugely welcome endorsement, and we are grateful to The Muslim Vote Scotland for backing the Scottish Greens on the peach-coloured regional ballot in every part of Scotland.
“Muslim communities across Scotland deserve MSPs who will listen, act and stand with them.
“We have proudly opposed Islamophobia and stood against Israel’s genocide against Palestinians in Gaza, securing a Scottish Parliament vote to support boycott, divestment and sanctions against Israel.
“The Scottish Greens want to build a Scotland where every community is valued, where racism is challenged and rejected and where public services work for everyone."
Mackay said that "too many Muslim communities have been ignored, targeted, misrepresented or taken for granted by politicians for far too long".
The co-leader added: “Green MSPs will work with The Muslim Vote Scotland and communities across the country to tackle health inequalities, implement long-overdue recommendations, and explore practical ways to make housing, services and opportunities fairer and more inclusive.
“At a time when Reform and the far right are trying to divide communities, this endorsement shows the importance of voting for MSPs who will stand up for equality, peace and justice.
“Every Scottish Green vote on the regional list can help elect MSPs who will fight for a fairer, kinder and more welcoming Scotland.”
Source: thenational.scot
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Abergavenny residents launch ombudsman complaint over pro-mosque bias
6 May 2026
Three Monmouthshire residents have submitted a formal complaint to the Public Services Ombudsman for Wales, alleging maladministration, bias, and breach of statutory duty by Monmouthshire County Council (MCC) over its decision to lease the Grade II listed Carnegie Library in Abergavenny to the Monmouthshire Muslim Community Association (MMCA) for use as a mosque.
Residents Dr Louise Brown, Rachel Buckler and Simon Howarth, supported by the Christian Legal Centre, argue that the Council’s Cabinet acted unlawfully and against the public interest when it agreed a 30-year lease at just £6,000 per year, despite its own valuations showing the building could command £20,000–£25,000 annually, or be sold for approximately £350,000.
Their legal advisers have seen documents with higher tenders submitted to MCC, including one from a Day Nursery with Flying Start provision, at a level of £33,500. Knowing disposal of a significant public asset by the Council at a massive undervalue is a serious breach of duty under the Local Government Act 1972 and cries out for investigation.
The complaint follows the Council’s refusal to reconsider its decision after it was called in by the Place Scrutiny Committee, which raised serious concerns about the tendering process, lack of transparency and failure to obtain best consideration for a valuable public asset.
‘Public assets disposed of at a serious undervalue’
The residents, who are local councillors but acting in their capacity as residents, allege that the Council has acted in breach of section 123 of the Local Government Act 1972, which requires councils to obtain the best consideration reasonably obtainable when disposing of land, unless strict statutory safeguards are met.
According to the complaint, alternative tenders offering significantly higher rents and even a freehold purchase were withheld from councillors and the public prior to the Cabinet decision. Meanwhile, the successful MMCA bid benefited from unexplained advantages within a scoring system that rewarded length, detail, and alignment with council political priorities rather than financial value.
Rachel Buckler said:
“This is not about opposing a faith community. It is about whether Monmouthshire County Council followed the law and acted fairly with public property. The evidence shows that it didn’t. Public assets appear to have been disposed of at a serious undervalue, without proper marketing, independent valuation, or transparency.”
“When residents are denied access to basic financial information, scrutiny becomes impossible. That should concern anyone who believes in good governance.
“This decision affects every council taxpayer in Monmouthshire. If valuable assets are effectively given away, the public pays the price. That is why independent scrutiny is now essential.”
Allegations of bias and predetermination
The Ombudsman complaint highlights what residents describe as a pattern of pre-existing engagement between Cabinet members and the MMCA, including meetings during Ramadan in 2023 and 2024 in which senior council figures publicly pledged to deliver a mosque for the county.
The complaint argues that these commitments predated the tender process and raise the appearance of predetermination and bias, particularly given evidence that MMCA representatives were able to visit the library months before it was marketed, allowing them to prepare a detailed business case beyond the reach of other bidders.
Simon Howarth said:
“The more documentation we examined, the clearer it became that this process was not conducted on a level playing field. One group appears to have had advance knowledge and access that others simply did not.”
“That raises serious questions about when the real decision was made, and whether the tender process was ever genuinely open.”
Failure to consult those most affected
The complaint also raises concerns about the complete absence of consultation with residents most affected by the proposed change of use, particularly elderly women living in the adjacent Rachel Herbert almshouses, which were founded in the nineteenth century to provide quiet accommodation for vulnerable residents.
Under Welsh planning law, no planning permission or public consultation is required for a change of use from library to place of worship. However, the complainants argue that this made it more, not less, essential for the Council to consult residents whose lives would be directly affected by daily religious activities, increased footfall, noise, lighting, and smells from regular communal meals.
Dr Louise Brown said:
“These are elderly residents living just metres from the building. Many are frail and depend on peace, routine and privacy. Yet they were never consulted, never warned, and never given the chance to express their concerns.”
“That is not community cohesion. It is a top-down imposition which fails to treat vulnerable residents with dignity or care.”
One almshouse resident has now formally instructed solicitors to express her concerns to the Ombudsman, fearing disturbance and loss of privacy. She has asked that her identity remain confidential due to fear of being publicly portrayed as opposing the mosque.
The residents are asking the Ombudsman to investigate alleged bias, maladministration, lack of transparency, and breach of statutory duty, and to examine the conduct of both officers and Cabinet members involved in the decision.
They warn that if councils are permitted to dispose of valuable public property at deep undervalues, without proper process or accountability, local taxpayers ultimately bear the cost through higher council tax or reduced services.
Source: christianconcern.com
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://christianconcern.com/news/abergavenny-residents-launch-ombudsman-complaint-over-pro-mosque-bias/
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North America
US blasts ‘wealthy NATO allies’ as terror incubators
7 May, 2026
US President Donald Trump has signed a new national counterterrorism strategy that describes Europe as both a target and “incubator of terror threats,” while also singling out drug cartels and violent left-wing extremists as major dangers to America.
The 16-page document, released by the White House on Wednesday, says Washington’s counterterrorism policy will be guided by “America First,” “common sense,” and “Peace through Strength.”
The strategy lists three major categories of terrorist threats facing the US: “narcoterrorists and transnational gangs,” “legacy Islamist terrorists,” and “violent left-wing extremists, including anarchists and anti-fascists.”
A separate section is devoted to “wealthy NATO allies” that are said to have turned Europe into a permissive environment for “alien cultures” plotting attacks against both Europeans and Americans.
“The world is safer when Europe is strong, but Europe is greatly threatened and is both a terror target and an incubator of terror threats,” the document states. “It is unacceptable that wealthy NATO allies can serve as financial, logistical, and recruitment hubs for terrorists.”
“Unfettered mass migration has been the transmission belt for terrorists,” the strategy says, urging European governments to “rediscover” freedom of speech, hold “honest conversations about Islamism,” devote more resources to counterterrorism, and take greater responsibility for their own security.
“As the birthplace of Western culture and values, Europe must act now and halt its willful decline. It is clear to all that well-organized hostile groups exploit open borders and related globalist ideals,” the document reads. It also warns that “the more these alien cultures grow, and the longer current European policies persist, the more terrorism is guaranteed.”
The harsh language echoes similar criticism in Trump’s National Security Strategy released in December, which criticized the EU’s political and cultural direction, and warned of “civilizational erasure.” At the time, he argued that Europe was “destroying itself” with “disastrous” immigration policies.
Beyond Europe, the counterterrorism strategy says the US will continue military and law-enforcement campaigns against cartels and transnational gangs designated as foreign terrorist organizations.
The document also identifies Iran as the greatest Middle Eastern danger to the US, stating that operations such as Midnight Hammer and Epic Fury will continue until Iran is “no longer a threat.”
Source: rt.com
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://www.rt.com/news/639551-europe-nato-terror-incubators/
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California gave millions to Muslim civil rights nonprofit that GOP states designated a terror group
May 6, 2026
The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), which describes itself as a Muslim civil rights organization, has come under increasing scrutiny following allegations it's connected to the Muslim Brotherhood and Hamas. Texas Gov. Greg Abbott in November designated CAIR a terrorist organization, as did Florida the following month.
California, however, is providing funding to the group. In the last five years, City Journal reported, taxpayers gave $41 million to the state's CAIR chapter. Much of the funding came from the federal government and was passed through the California Department of Social Services.
The Department of Justice is investigating whether it should remain eligible to receive taxpayer funds. The DOJ told the Daily Caller that the probe follows a complaint from the Intelligent Advocacy Network that there are allegations of irregularities in the California chapter's financial reporting and that it's supporting terrorism.
CAIR has long denied allegations it's tied to terror groups, and it's currently suing Texas over its designation as a terror group.
Source: justthenews.com
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://justthenews.com/government/state-houses/california-gave-millions-muslim-civil-rights-nonprofit-gop-states
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US attacks Iranian tanker after Trump’s ultimatum
6 May, 2026
The US military has fired on and disabled an Iranian-flagged oil tanker in the Gulf of Oman after President Donald Trump threatened to resume the bombing campaign unless Tehran agrees to end the war on Washington’s terms.
US Central Command said the unladen tanker, identified as the M/T Hasna, was attempting to sail toward an Iranian port on Wednesday in violation of Washington’s naval blockade, which remains in force despite the president’s abrupt decision a day earlier to pause Project Freedom, a military operation to move ships through the Strait of Hormuz.
US forces issued multiple warnings before an F/A-18 Super Hornet launched from the USS Abraham Lincoln fired several 20mm cannon rounds at the vessel’s rudder, preventing it from continuing toward Iran, according to CENTCOM.
The strike came shortly after Trump issued a new ultimatum to Tehran, warning that the “already legendary Epic Fury” will end only if Iran accepts the terms he claimed have already been agreed to.
“If they don’t agree, the bombing starts, and it will be, sadly, at a much higher level and intensity than it was before,” he wrote on Truth Social.
Trump remained optimistic, telling PBS later on Wednesday that there is “a very good chance” the war could end before his planned trip to China. He added, however, that if it does not, the US will “go back to bombing the hell out of them.”
The US and Iran are reportedly closing in on a one-page, 14-point memorandum of understanding that would end the war and open a 30-day period for more detailed negotiations, according to Axios sources. The proposed framework would reportedly include an Iranian moratorium on uranium enrichment, enhanced inspections, a gradual lifting of US sanctions, the release of frozen Iranian funds, and the phased easing of restrictions on shipping.
An RT source in Pakistan said progress in the peace process remains “somewhat slow,” with several unresolved issues still under discussion.
Tehran has yet to formally respond to the US proposal. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmail Baghaei said the text is still under review, adding that negotiations require “good faith” and must not involve “dictation,” “deception,” “extortion,” or “coercion.”
Iranian military officials struck a defiant tone before reports of the tanker incident emerged. Brigadier General Abolfazl Shekarchi, the spokesman for the Iranian Armed Forces, warned that if Washington uses the talks as a cover for further aggression, Iran will respond decisively and deliver a “humiliating defeat.”
Source: rt.com
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://www.rt.com/news/639549-us-iran-tanker-attack/
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Los Gatos mosque wins approval to extend hours, but with 43 conditions attached
NOLLYANNE DELACRUZ
May 6, 2026
The West Valley Muslim Association’s application to extend its Los Gatos mosque’s operating hours to accommodate morning, nightly and Ramadan prayer times was approved by the planning commission on April 22 amid much disdain from both the association and its neighbors.
The association, abbreviated as WVMA, applied to modify its conditional use permit to accommodate its dawn, night and Ramadan prayers throughout the year. The applicant, WVMA founder Razi Mohiuddin, said modifying the permit would allow the mosque, located on Farley Road, to operate 90 minutes before sunrise and past its 10:30 p.m. closing time. This means that the mosque will open at 6:30 a.m. during the winter and 5 a.m. during the summer. During Ramadan, the mosque will close at 11:30 p.m. during standard time. The latest WVMA can close during Daylight Saving Time is midnight.
Residents who live near the mosque argued against modifying the permit, citing noise, traffic safety and light pollution as their main concerns. Some of these residents created the Farley Road Neighborhood Coalition. Following the March 31 planning commission meeting, WVMA and the coalition attempted to mediate the dispute, but it ended unsuccessfully, with the groups unable to find a mediator or negotiate an appropriate price for mediation.
After about three hours of discussion, the planning commission unanimously approved WVMA’s permit modifications, but not before adding 18 conditions of approval to the 25 that town staff already amended to the permit. The initial 25 conditions include mandating that windows and doors on the west side of the building remain closed during indoor services; requiring shrubs to be planted and maintained along fences adjacent to residents’ homes; and requiring the parking lot to be vacated by 11 p.m. generally and within 30 minutes after the last service during Ramadan.
Commissioners added two major conditions to WVMA’s modified permit: The mosque’s parking lot must be renovated within a year to add about 20 spaces and repair any cracks, bumps or anomalies that may cause sound, and occupancy of the mosque will be limited based on the total number of parking spaces.
For the dawn and night prayers, attendance is capped at 550, a number that assumes WVMA’s 183-space parking lot is full and that each vehicle carries three people. Commissioners said that during Ramadan, WVMA can follow the maximum occupancy of the building, which is around 1,200.
This news organization previously reported that WVMA attracts 300 to 400 attendees on Fridays, which is the main day of worship for Muslims. During Ramadan, WVMA sees about 500 to 600 people observing the holiday each night.
Given the discrepancy between the parking lot’s size and the building’s capacity, Mohiuddin said it would be difficult to explain to people why they were being turned away from prayer services.
“Basically we would have to count people who are coming in,” he said. “How do we tell people, ‘Sorry, we cannot accommodate you,’ even though there’s plenty of parking space and plenty of space inside the facility?”
Commissioners deemed limiting the mosque’s occupancy a narrowly tailored solution to a compelling government interest: neighborhood preservation.
“With the kind of traffic that this is generating … I just can’t come up with an analogy to describe the increased volume that this neighborhood has experienced,” said Commissioner Rob Stump. “It’s real.”
While he appreciated the planning commission’s decision, Mohiuddin said the occupancy limits and parking lot renovation, along with an annual review requirement that’s one of the permit’s 43 conditions, were “very problematic” and “create a substantial burden.” He estimated that these requirements would cost WVMA more than $1 million over the next year and likened the occupancy limits to “being put in a straightjacket in terms of what we can do with the facility.” Mohiuddin said WVMA will continue to work with town staff but reserved the right to pursue all legal remedies to protect their right to worship.
“The message that we are getting is that our faith-based community is not welcome in Los Gatos,” he added. “No one has said that explicitly, but the message that’s sent to us is, ‘No, you don’t belong here.’”
On the other hand, the Farley Road Neighborhood Coalition said in an email that they were “deeply concerned” by the commission’s decision.
“The (town) has essentially abandoned its ‘compelling interest’ in keeping our residential streets safe,” the email reads. “This isn’t just about worship; it’s about an industrial-scale assembly that the infrastructure of Farley Road simply cannot support.”
The email further stated that the coalition’s concerns are based in “objective engineering and public safety, not social demographics,” and that what they’re asking for would not result in the town violating the Religious Land Use and Institutionalized Persons Act (RLUIPA), a federal law intended to protect religious institutions from discriminatory land use and zoning laws.
William Armaline, a San Jose State University sociology professor and executive board member of the Silicon Valley chapter of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, or NAACP, previously submitted a letter on behalf of the NAACP in support of approving WVMA’s modified permit. He said the level of restriction being placed on WVMA mirrors the challenges that Muslim communities face in practicing their religion.
According to a 20th anniversary report on RLUIPA published in 2020 by the Department of Justice, land use lawsuits and amicus filings against Muslim groups were disproportionately overrepresented in comparison to their total U.S. population. Of 148 RLUIPA formal land use investigations opened since the law was passed in 2000, around 23% involved Muslim groups. Cases involving Islamic mosques and schools made up the largest number of land use lawsuits and amicus briefs filed between September 2000 and September 2020. In 2015, Pew Research Center reported that Muslims made up 0.9% of the U.S. population.
Armaline said placing 43 conditions on the WVMA’s permit is similarly disproportionate.
“When you’re talking about 43 rules and all these kinds of things, on it’s face, this is an attempt to make this prohibited,” he said. “I think any reasonable adult looking at that list would see that.”
Source: eastbaytimes.com
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://www.eastbaytimes.com/2026/05/06/los-gatos-mosque-wins-approval-to-extend-hours-but-with-43-conditions-attached/
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CAIR-Texas Welcomes Removal of Surveillance, Defense Targets from Austin Economic Development Resolution
May 6, 2026
Muslim civil rights and advocacy group calls on community to mobilize for binding guardrails
(AUSTIN, TX, 5/6/2026) – The Texas chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-Texas), a chapter of the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today welcomed the removal of specific target industries, including mass-surveillance AI and defense technology, from the City of Austin’s Economic Development Resolution (EDR) ahead of the May 7th Austin City Council meeting and vote and called on the Austin community to mobilize to ensure ironclad guardrails are included in the subsequent ordinance.
Following community mobilization by a broad coalition involving the Austin for Palestine Coalition, VOCAL Texas, Democratic Socialists of America, the Palestinian Youth Movement Central Texas, Jewish Voice for Peace, and CAIR-Texas, to name a few, the City of Austin released a revised version of the resolution that officially strikes “Defense” and “AI” as named priorities for taxpayer-funded incentives. CAIR-Texas’ advocacy is rooted in 2026 national data showing that civil rights violations increasingly occur through “digital dragnets” and surveillance, which disproportionately impact Muslim, Black, and Brown communities through automated profiling.
In a statement, CAIR-Texas said:
“We welcome the decision to remove harmful surveillance and defense industries from the city’s priorities. Surveillance technology is not a neutral tool; CAIR research has documented how such methods are used to weaken rights in practice and treat community members as suspicious and outside the circle of protected life. By subsidizing these industries, the city risks creating a ‘chilling effect’ that intentionally suppresses the rights to freedom of speech and peaceful assembly.
“While we celebrate this shift in vision, we are now advocating for the contract. The upcoming ordinance is where the law is made. We must secure explicit guardrails that leave no room for back-door deals with companies that fuel genocide or mass surveillance.”
CAIR’s 2026 report documented a record-breaking 8,683 civil rights complaints nationwide in 2025, the highest single-year total since tracking began in 1996. This data highlights a systemic trend where equal protection increasingly requires active defense against government behavior that treats marginalized groups as suspicious. Factual assessments show that government-coordinated surveillance is used to “intentionally chill” constitutional rights, specifically affecting the safety and dignity of community members in public spaces.
The City Council hearing on Item 24 is scheduled for tomorrow, Thursday, May 7th.
Testify at the Meeting: Community members who have already signed up to testify are strongly encouraged to attend and share their perspectives on the importance of ethical investment guardrails.
Review the Revised Resolution: Residents can access the updated resolution language here: https://www.austincouncilforum.org/viewtopic.php?t=2246
Email the Mayor and Council: Community members are encouraged to urge their representatives to include explicit guardrails in the final ordinance. An action tool is available here: https://secure.ngpvan.com/AIvXX6hHG0OVB2_hoFVq1A2
Document Opposition: The public is invited to visit the community action document to record stances against subsidized surveillance: tinyurl.com/AustinNoAI
CAIR-Texas’s mission is to protect civil rights, enhance understanding of Islam, promote justice, and empower American Muslims.
La misión de CAIR-Texas es proteger las libertades civiles, mejorar la comprensión del Islam, promover la justicia, y empoderar a los musulmanes en los Estados Unidos.
Source: cair.com
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://www.cair.com/press_releases/cair-texas-welcomes-removal-of-surveillance-defense-targets-from-austin-economic-development-resolution/
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CAIR-Chicago to Join American Muslims for Palestine (AMP), Allies at Press Conference Following City Vote on Resolution in Support of Salah Sarsour
May 6, 2026
The American Muslims for Palestine (AMP)-Chicago, in collaboration with local community organizations, will hold a press conference outside of City Hall following the vote on City Council Resolution R2026-0024891, calling on U.S. Department of Homeland Security and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement to immediately release Salah Sarsour and to ensure safeguarding of immigrant rights and prevention of further abuses of power in immigration enforcement. The resolution was introduced by Alderpeople Byron Sigcho-Lopez, Anthony Quezada, and Rossana Rodriguez-Sanchez.
WHAT: Press conference following City Council vote on resolution in support of Salah Sarsour, abducted by ICE
WHEN: Thursday, May 7th, hearing at 10 am, press conference 12 pm
WHERE: Chicago City Hall, Council Chambers, 121 N. LaSalle St Chicago, IL 60602, Press conference to follow on 3rd floor
WHO: American Muslims for Palestine (AMP)-Chicago and allies
CONTACT: Ahmed Rehab, Executive Director of CAIR-Chicago, 202-870-0166, arehab@cair.com; Hafsa Haider, Communications Director of CAIR-Chicago, 561-317-7509, hhaider@cair.com
Community leader Salah Sarsour, the president of the Islamic Society of Milwaukee, a board member of American Muslims for Palestine (AMP), chairman of AMP’s Annual Palestine Convention, and a longtime community leader in Chicago and Milwaukee. Sarsour was detained by ICE and transferred out of state two weeks ago. He has lived in the United States for over 30 years and has no criminal record here, yet remains in ICE detention without justification. His son, Kareem Sarsour, will be testifying at the hearing.
The resolution demands the immediate release of Salah Sarsour from detention to rejoin his wife, 6 kids, grandchildren, and community. The resolution further states that the DHS and ICE:
“Ensure that his case is handled with full transparency and due process;
Respect and protect the constitutional and civil rights of all individuals, including lawful permanent residents;
Refrain from actions that may be perceived as targeting individuals based on their identity, background, or protected speech.”
The American Muslims for Palestine is a national, grassroots organization whose mission is to educate the public about issues related to Palestine and its rich cultural and historical heritage. AMP has chapters throughout the country and offices in Palos Hills, IL and Washington, DC. For more information, go to www.ampalestine.org.
CAIR’s mission is to protect civil rights, enhance understanding of Islam, promote justice, and empower American Muslims.
Source: cair.com
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://www.cair.com/press_releases/cair-chicago-to-join-american-muslims-for-palestine-amp-allies-at-press-conference-following-city-vote-on-resolution-in-support-of-salah-sarsour/
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CAIR-NY Condemns Antisemitic, Neo-Nazi Vandalism in Queens
May 6, 2026
The New York chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-NY), a chapter of the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today condemned the antisemitic and neo-Nazi vandalism of several Jewish institutions in Queens, including a community center, synagogue, two homes, and a vehicle.
The incidents are currently being investigated by the Hate Crimes Task Force. The NYPD has released images of four suspects.
In a statement, CAIR-NY Executive Director Afaf Nasher, Esq., said:
“We strongly condemn these acts of antisemitic, neo-Nazi hate. Every New Yorker has the right to feel safe in their community without the looming threat of bigotry and violence. We stand in solidarity with the Jewish community in efforts to identify those responsible for this attack and ensure they are held accountable.”
She said 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-NY’s mission is to protect civil rights, enhance understanding of Islam, promote justice, and empower American Muslims.
La misión de CAIR-NY es proteger las libertades civiles, mejorar la comprensión del Islam, promover la justicia, y empoderar a los musulmanes en los Estados Unidos.
Subscribe to CAIR-NY’s Email List
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.
Source: cair.com
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://www.cair.com/press_releases/cair-ny-condemns-antisemitic-neo-nazi-vandalism-in-queens/
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Africa
Detained Soldier Dies In Army Custody After Alleged Medical Neglect
May 7, 2026
By Enioluwa Adeniyi
Fresh information has emerged on the death of a detained soldier, Corporal Bala Hudu, in the custody of the Nigerian Army, with sources alleging medical neglect and poor treatment of soldiers in military detention facilities.
Hudu, with service number 09/6/44/4682, was attached to the 223 Light Tank Battalion under 8 Division.
He had reportedly been in detention since October 2023 over an allegation described as “self-defence.”
According to information obtained by SaharaReporters, Hudu’s health began to fail in April 2026 after months in detention.
Sources said Hudu fell ill on April 4 alongside other detainees who tried to seek medical attention at a military facility but were allegedly turned away.
One source said, “On the 4th of April, four of us went to the medical centre and the Medical Commander refused to attend to us. We were all malingering and we were brought back to the guardroom.”
The source alleged that the detainees’ complaints were dismissed as fake, leaving them without treatment despite signs of illness.
The document further claimed that Hudu’s condition worsened over the following days while requests for medical assistance were ignored.
“Subsequently, his sickness continued and even he gave money for the Military Police (MP) to buy tabs for him, they refused, claiming it is self-medication,” the source said.
Soldier Confirmed Dead April 17
As Hudu’s condition deteriorated, fellow detainees reportedly became alarmed.
One source said, “On Sunday, being April 12, 2026, his health condition worsened, and he was purging and vomiting.”
The detainees alleged that no immediate action was taken until they protested.
“But until the sixteenth, after a lot of aggressive actions from us the detainees, they were forced to take him to the hospital,” the source said.
By the time Hudu was taken for treatment on April 16, it was reportedly too late.
“Then we heard that he is dead,” the source added.
Hudu was confirmed dead on April 17, 2026, nearly two weeks after he first reported illness.
In a separate case, sources also raised concern over the condition of Private Solomon Gideon, with service number 15NA/73/1093, attached to the 26 Battalion under Headquarters 8 Division.
Gideon is reportedly still in detention and is said to be “almost blind” due to worsening health while in custody.
Sources alleged that despite his condition, military authorities were pushing for stricter disciplinary measures against him.
He was initially punished with the forfeiture of two years’ salary over what was described as a “miscellaneous offence.”
However, sources said senior officers rejected the punishment as too lenient.
“They said the punishment is too low and that he should be retried,” the source said.
Concerns Over Military Detention
The cases have raised renewed concerns over the treatment of detained soldiers and the transparency of disciplinary processes within the Nigerian Army.
Sources alleged that some internal disciplinary procedures are handled in secrecy and may be used to intimidate or punish subordinates disproportionately.
Source: naijanews.com
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://www.naijanews.com/2026/05/07/soldier-dies-in-army-custody/
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Tunisia court sentences former justice minister to 20 years in prison
May 7, 2026
A Tunisian court has sentenced former Justice Minister Noureddine Bhiri, a senior figure in the _opposition Enna_hda movement, to 20 years in prison over allegations linked to the granting of passports and citizenship documents to foreign nationals wanted in terrorism-related cases.
According to Tunisian state media, the case concerns accusations that fraudulent documents were issued during Bhiri’s tenure as justice minister in 2012. Bhiri and his legal team have denied all charges, describing the case as politically motivated.
Bhiri is already serving a separate 43-year sentence handed down last year in a case related to “conspiracy against state security,” one of several prosecutions targeting opposition figures in Tunisia in recent years.
The ruling comes amid growing criticism from international rights groups over what they describe as an intensifying crackdown on dissent under President Kais Saied. Since Saied dissolved parliament and expanded his powers in 2021, dozens of politicians, journalists, lawyers and activists have faced arrest and prosecution.
Tunisia, once hailed as the Arab Spring’s only democratic success story, has increasingly faced concerns over judicial independence and civil liberties as opposition leaders continue to receive lengthy prison sentences.
Source: africanews.com
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://www.africanews.com/2026/05/07/tunisia-court-sentences-former-justice-minister-to-20-years-in-prison/
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Peter Obi Will Never Contest Primary Election Until End Of Political Career – Kenneth Okonkwo
May 7, 2026
By Justina Otio
A chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Kenneth Okonkwo, has stated that former Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate, Peter Obi, is afraid of competitive primary elections.
Speaking during an appearance on Arise News, he stated that Obi’s departure from the ADC was not driven by ideological disagreement or an internal crisis.
Okonkwo said Obi quit the party because of what he described as a longstanding fear of open electoral contests.
“Peter Obi is afraid of free and fair primary elections. He gave reasons for the challenges, but his main reason is that he does not want to face the primary election,” he said.
According to him, Obi has historically avoided competitive primaries throughout his political career and has instead relied on negotiations and political arrangements.
“He has never been in one, and he will not be in one until he finishes his political career,” Okonkwo stated.
Meanwhile, Okonkwo has slammed the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, over the remark that the opposition coalition is dead.
Naija News reports that Akpabio made the comment during plenary on Tuesday when he read a letter announcing the defection of Abia South senator, Enyinnaya Abaribe.
Reacting to the defection, Akpabio said, “I think ADC is dead. How many times are you defecting? A month? Three times? But let us compile all the list so it doesn’t look like a daily ritual.
“Compile the names of those defecting from all the political parties and their party destinations. If you are moving from ADC, you write all of you. If you are entering NDC, you write all of you. If you are going to Accord, you write as well.”
In response to the statement, Okonkwo, during an interview on ARISE Television on Wednesday, declared that the National Assembly under Akpabio is dead.
He said, “I will react to him simply, the only dead institution in Nigeria is the National Assembly that is supervised by the dead Senate President, Godswill Akpabio.
“You can imagine a man who is over citing the president who has three budget running at the same time and he does not have the light in him to talk about the sufferings of Nigerians, yet what he knows how to talk is to talk about the ADC. The only thing dead is the National Assembly under Akpabio.”
Source: naijanews.com
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://www.naijanews.com/2026/05/07/peter-obi-primary-election-political-career-kenneth-okonkwo/
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Senate Confirms Appointment Of New Ministers
May 6, 2026
The Nigerian Senate has confirmed the appointment of Joseph Olasunkanmi Tegbe as Minister of Power.
Naija News reports that the Senate also confirmed Ambassador Sola Enikanolaiye as Minister of State Foreign Affairs.
The President, in a letter to the Senate on Tuesday read during plenary by the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, sought the screening and confirmation of the duo as Ministers of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Tinubu, in the letter, said the nomination was in line with the provisions of the Constitution.
Tegbe, who hails from Oyo State, is a fiscal and economic reform expert with over 35 years of experience in the public and private sectors.
He is a former Senior Partner and Head of Advisory Services at KPMG Africa, where he led initiatives in fiscal policy reform, institutional transformation and governance.
He has also advised government institutions and private sector organisations on strategic reforms, regulatory frameworks and investment structuring.
His nomination followed the resignation of Adebayo Adelabu as Minister of Power to pursue his governorship ambition in Oyo State.
Source: naijanews.com
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://www.naijanews.com/2026/05/06/senate-confirms-appointment-of-new-ministers/
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C. Africa opposition leader banned from travel slams 'abuse of power'
May 7, 2026
Top Central African Republic opposition figure Anicet-Georges Dologuele on Wednesday criticised the state's "abuse of power" after he was prevented from leaving the country on the pretext he had lost his citizenship.
Dologuele, a former prime minister and a leading critic of President Faustin-Archange Touadera, has been locked in a legal dispute since a court in October ruled that he had lost his Centrafrican citizenship as he also held French nationality.
He said that he had been prevented from travelling on Tuesday morning just as he was about to board a flight to Addis Ababa, the Ethiopian capital.
He was due to attend a meeting of the African Union Peace Fund, whose board of directors he has chaired since 2018.
"The minister of the interior... has clearly decided that I was not entitled to a Centrafrican passport and that I was banned from leaving the country," Dologuele told a press conference on Wednesday, which he called an "abuse of power by the state".
Just months before the court invalidated his Centrafrican citizenship, Dologuele gave up his French passport in August to allow him to run against Touadera in the December presidential election.
After Touadera was declared the winner with nearly 78 percent of the vote, the runner-up ex-prime minister denounced a "massive fraud" and filed an appeal.
A large section of the opposition boycotted the vote, in which Touadera was allowed to stand for a third term after changing the constitution in 2023.
Dologuele also finished second to Touadera in the 2016 and 2020 elections, both of which were marred by suspicions of fraud.
Source: africanews.com
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TPLF move to restore leadership raises tensions in Ethiopia’s Tigray
May 7, 2026
Political parties and analysts in Ethiopia are deeming it illegal for the leader of the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF) to serve as the head of the local parliament.
TPLF leader Debretsion Gebremichael was elected to head the restored parliament on Tuesday. The Tigray parliament had been dissolved under the peace agreement.
Some now say the move by the dominant party in Ethiopia's Tigray to restore its control of the region could lead to "disastrous" renewed conflict with the federal government.
"Debretsion being in charge of the presidency of Tigray, it can worsen the political and security situation of Tigray, generally at the TPLF," said Kinfe Hadush, the Chairman of Salsay Weyane Tigray opposition party.
"The election of Debretsion to the presidency [...] shows the structural failure of the TPLF," he added.
Analysts fear this move could restart hostilities with the federal government in Addis Ababa
"What we are witnessing right now in Tigray is that the TPLF has decided to reinstate the pre-war council, as well as to reinstate the wartime president, Mr. Debretsion Gebremichael. So, to me, this shows, symbolically and actually, that we are drifting away from the peace agreement," said Desta Gebremedhin, a Peace and Conflict student at Mekele University.
The federal government has yet to respond to the consequences of the appointment.
While still powerful regionally, the TPLF, which effectively ruled Ethiopia for three decades, was banned as a political party last year.
Source: africanews.com
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Southeast Asia
Second Malaysian Haj pilgrim dies in Mecca, 70-year-old Johor man succumbs to heart attack
06 May 2026
MECCA, May 6 — A 70-year-old male pilgrim died of a heart attack yesterday.
This is the second death recorded, following the demise of a 65-year-old male pilgrim from Pahang who collapsed while on his way to perform Friday prayers at the courtyard of Masjidil Haram (Grand Mosque) on Friday (May 1).
Lembaga Tabung Haji (TH) said in a statement today that the septugenarian, from Senggarang, Johor, died at Ajyad Hospital at 6.16pm local time (11.16pm Malaysian time).
“The deceased had travelled to the Holy Land with his wife and was part of the KT34 group organised by a pilgrimage operator, staying at the Elaf Al Bait hotel.
“The deceased was confirmed to have died of a heart attack while undergoing treatment at the hospital,” the statement said.
TH said the remains were taken to Masjidil Haram for funeral prayers after the Subuh (dawn) prayer before being buried at Al Sharayea Cemetery. — Bernama
Source: malaymail.com
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Parliament proposes special sitting on West Asia crisis
7 May 2026
Parliament’s special committee urges a special sitting by early June 2026 to discuss the geopolitical crisis in West Asia.
KUALA LUMPUR: The Parliamentary Special Select Committee on International Relations and International Trade has proposed that a special parliamentary sitting be held no later than early June 2026 to discuss the geopolitical crisis in West Asia.
In a statement, the committee said the proposal was unanimously agreed upon during a meeting at the Parliament building today attended by 12 committee members and chaired by Subang member of Parliament Wong Chen, who also heads the committee.
According to the statement, the proposed special sitting aims to obtain the latest information on geopolitical developments, while also discussing Malaysia’s stance and plans to comprehensively address the impact of the crisis in the Dewan Rakyat.
“The committee members unanimously wish to propose to the government that a special Dewan Rakyat sitting be convened as soon as possible, and no later than early June 2026.
“The committee believes that the Dewan Rakyat is the best platform for debating this important matter so that the interests of Malaysians can be safeguarded and public concerns regarding the conflict can be properly clarified,” it said.
The meeting was also attended by representatives from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI), and the Ministry of Economy.
The statement said the meeting’s main agenda was to obtain updates on the latest situation in West Asia, particularly diplomatic relations involving Malaysia, Iran, and affected countries, as well as updates on overseas travel advisories from the Foreign Affairs Ministry.
Meanwhile, MITI presented measures to address the impact of the West Asia conflict on the country’s investment and trade, including mitigation efforts to reduce risks in these sectors, while the Ministry of Economy shared its views regarding its impact on domestic economic growth.
Source: thesun.my
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https://thesun.my/news/malaysia-news/politics/parliament-proposes-sitting-on-west-asia-crisis/
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Johor assembly passes Bill allowing appointment of up to five unelected reps
07 May 2026
ISKANDAR PUTERI, May 7 — The Johor state legislative assembly today passed a Bill to amend the state constitution’s enactment, paving the way for the appointment of up to five unelected assemblymen.
The Bill to amend Part Two, Clause 15 of the Johor State Constitution 1985 was passed after it secured more than two-thirds support in the legislative assembly.
A total of 40 assemblymen voted in favour, while 16 opposed the amendment.
Johor assembly Speaker Datuk Mohd Puad Zarkashi announced that the appointment was based on provisions under the state constitution enactment amendment.
This aims to expand the composition of the Johor state assembly by appointing unelected assemblymen, after similar appointments were made in Pahang, Terengganu and Sabah.
Johor Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi, when tabling the Bill, said the amendment to include appointed assemblymen is intended to broaden the role of the state assembly by bringing in individuals with specialised expertise and experience to contribute to policymaking.
“The proposal is not purely political, but it provides space for individuals with certain expertise and extensive experience to contribute to the state’s development.
“With that, the state government sees the need to strengthen the institution of the state assembly by having individuals with expertise and experience in certain fields to assist in the process,” he said when tabling the Bill at the Johor state legislative assembly at Bangunan Sultan Ismail in Kota Iskandar here.
Earlier this week, several Pakatan Harapan, Perikatan Nasional and Muda politicians questioned the proposed Bill to amend the state constitution to allow for the appointment of unelected assemblymen.
They questioned the need for the five assemblymen and added that the proposed Bill lacked clarity and posed a challenge to the established democratic process.
Source: malaymail.com
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Zahid dismisses opposition criticism over Bukit Bintang event, says PAS ‘no better’ when in government
By Anis Zalani
07 May 2026
KUALA LUMPUR, May 7 — Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi today dismissed opposition criticism over a recent entertainment event in Bukit Bintang as mere politicking.
He said PAS had not done differently when it was previously part of the government and held positions of power.
“Whatever the government does, it is all deemed to be wrong by the opposition. However, when they (PAS) were part of the government and held positions of power, they did not actually perform any better than what is being done now.
“I believe we should not apply such measures or standards. In any case, the authority to appoint ministers lies with the Prime Minister (Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim),” he told reporters after officiating the National Social Policy Action Plan 2026-2030 here today.
This comes after Selangor PAS Youth chief Muhammad Hafizuddin Muhammad Zai urged Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing to be held accountable over the organisation of a music festival.
Source: malaymail.com
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Kedah Sultan’s birthday moved from June 21 to July 5, public holiday changed
07 May 2026
ALOR SETAR, May 7 — The official birthday celebration of the Sultan of Kedah Al Aminul Karim Sultan Sallehuddin Sultan Badlishah has been moved from June 21 to July 5 this year.
The change in date was announced through an official state government letter signed by deputy state secretary (Management) Muhammad Mahazi Ibrahim, dated May 6.
Following the amendment, the Kedah public holiday has also been revised in line with the new date.
The letter was distributed to heads of state and federal departments, heads of state and federal statutory bodies, as well as heads of local authorities for their attention. — Bernama
Source: malaymail.com
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Court grants Malaysian Bar green light to challenge DNAA in Zahid’s Yayasan Akalbudi case
By Ida Lim
07 May 2026
PUTRAJAYA, May 7 — The Malaysian Bar today won its appeal to begin its court challenge against the Attorney General’s 2023 decision to apply for a discharge not amounting to an acquittal (DNAA) against Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi’s 47 charges in the Yayasan Akalbudi corruption trial.
Datuk Faizah Jamaludin, who chaired a three-judge panel at the Court of Appeal, said the panel unanimously decided that the Malaysian Bar’s court challenge could proceed to be heard by the High Court.
“Leave is granted to the Appellant to commence judicial review against the Attorney General’s impugned decision. The matter is remitted to the High Court for substantive hearing of the judicial review,” she said, referring to the Malaysian Bar as the appellant.
The other two judges on the panel were Datuk Lim Hock Leng and Datuk Nadzarin Wok Nordin.
The Malaysian Bar had on December 2, 2023 filed its court challenge via a judicial review application, but the High Court on June 27, 2024 decided not to grant leave for the case to be heard.
Since this is a judicial review case, the Malaysian Bar had to get the court’s leave or court’s permission first in order for the case to be heard.
The Malaysian Bar on July 23, 2024 appealed against the High Court’s decision, and this is the appeal it won today.
The High Court will now hear the Malaysian Bar’s challenge against the AG’s decision to get a DNAA in Zahid’s case, unless the AG decides to file an appeal on today’s decision.
What the Court of Appeal decided
When reading out excerpts of the court’s judgment today, Faizah noted that the Malaysian Bar’s appeal today involves issues of constitutional and public importance, specifically on the threshold or the minimum requirement in order to get leave to challenge the AG’s discretion in prosecutions under the Federal Constitution’s Article 145(3).
Under Article 145(3), the AG has the power and discretion to “discontinue” any criminal proceedings or to drop prosecutions.
Faizah stressed that the Court of Appeal’s decision today is not on the merits of the criminal charges, “does not determine the guilt of or innocence of” anyone, and is also not on the motives of the AG’s conduct.
Instead, she said the only question is whether the Malaysian Bar has met the threshold for leave to start its court challenge against the AG’s September 2023 decision to ask for a DNAA in Zahid’s case.
She made it clear that a DNAA is “not a finding of innocence or guilt”, but a “procedural order” that the courts make in criminal proceedings.
Faizah listed five legal issues that the Court of Appeal had examined in coming to its decision today, including whether the Malaysian Bar had fulfilled the test to be able to start its court challenge.
She said the Federal Court’s 2021 decision in the Sundra Rajoo case had clarified that the AG’s prosecutorial discretion under Article 145(3) is wide but is not “absolute or unfettered”, and that it had ruled that the AG’s prosecutorial discretion could be subjected to judicial review in “appropriate, rare and exceptional” situations.
She noted the Federal Court had made it clear that all public powers have legal limits and that the AG’s constitutional status does not mean that the courts could not review his prosecutorial discretion, although a higher standard of scrutiny would apply.
The Court of Appeal today decided that the test to get leave for a judicial review against the AG’s prosecutorial discretion is the same test that applies to other judicial review cases.
This test is whether there is an arguable case that is not frivolous.
But when the judicial review is about how the AG exercised his prosecutorial discretion, the Court of Appeal said the test for getting leave must also be applied with “discipline, caution and restraint” with considerations of four factors.
These four factors are the AG’s constitutional status; the presumption that the AG’s exercise of his prosecutorial discretion was legal; the doctrine of separation of powers; and the principle that judicial review over prosecutorial discretion is limited to “appropriate, rare and exceptional” cases.
Faizah said the presumption of legality of the AG’s prosecutorial discretion cannot be an “absolute bar” or completely shut out leave for judicial review, if such a court challenge is supported by identifiable and serious matters.
Unlike the AG’s decision to charge an individual which can be challenged within the court process and trials, she noted that the decision to discontinue or drop a prosecution “may have a final practical effect” and remove it from the courts.
“In such a case, a judicial review may be the only practical means by which the legality or rationality of the AG’s decision-making process can be examined,” she said.
She said the Malaysian Bar’s court challenge is focused on whether the AG’s decision-making process when deciding to discontinue the prosecution against Zahid was legal and rational, including whether relevant or irrelevant factors were considered, and whether the AG’s decision was justified.
She said the Court of Appeal concluded that the Malaysian Bar has crossed the threshold or fulfilled the test to get leave for judicial review of the AG’s prosecutorial discretion, and that the Bar has an arguable case that is not “frivolous”.
“This case is appropriate, rare and exceptional, because of the seriousness of the charges, the public interest in corruption prosecutions, the prima facie finding after a maximum evaluation, the calling of the defence, the extent of proceedings already undertaken, including 99 prosecution witnesses over 53 days of trial, and 15 defence witnesses, the timing and number of representations and the practical finality of the discontinuance,” the judge said, referring to Zahid’s Yayasan Akalbudi case.
“Accordingly, this is our findings for issue III, we therefore held the application is not frivolous and discloses serious public law issues that should be heard at the substantive stage,” she said.
For the fifth and final legal issue, the Court of Appeal ruled that the Malaysian Bar’s judicial review bid is not a “collateral attack” on the criminal courts’ order to grant a DNAA for all 47 charges against Zahid, as the Bar is instead focused on the AG’s decision to seek a DNAA.
Faizah explained that when the AG discontinues a prosecution, the default result would be a DNAA, unless the court decides to acquit the accused person.
This is based on the Criminal Procedure Code’s Section 254.
Citing Section 254, she said the criminal court cannot compel the AG to continue a criminal trial once the AG has decided to discontinue the prosecution, and that means the decision to continue or discontinue the prosecution would still be the AG’s responsibility.
In the Yayasan Akalbudi case, she said the High Court in September 2023 had considered the choice of whether to grant a DNAA as sought by the prosecution or an acquittal as sought by Zahid, and that it did not make a finding on whether the AG’s decision to discontinue the prosecution was legal, rational or reasonable.
Ultimately, the Court of Appeal concluded that the Malaysian Bar should be given leave to have its court challenge heard.
Zahid’s acquittal application in courts next week
The Court of Appeal’s decision today is important as it could potentially affect when the High Court decides on Zahid’s separate application for acquittal in the Yayasan Akalbudi case.
Zahid had on January 28 applied to be acquitted and the Attorney General’s Chambers has said it has no objections to this application.
The High Court had on February 24 said it would wait for the Court of Appeal’s decision to prevent the Malaysian Bar’s appeal from becoming academic, but had also later scheduled May 14 (next Thursday) to decide on Zahid’s acquittal application.
Unlike a DNAA which temporarily frees an accused from charges and the same charges can be brought again, an acquittal would mean the prosecution cannot file the same charges in the future.
Lawyer Datuk Ambiga Sreenevasan, who represented the Malaysian Bar, told reporters that the Bar also has a separate court challenge against the AG’s January 8, 2026 decision to classify Zahid’s Yayasan Akalbudi case as “NFA” (No Further Action).
As for the High Court’s scheduled decision next week on Zahid’s acquittal bid, Ambiga said the Malaysian Bar would ask for the decision to be deferred until the courts hear the Malaysian Bar’s two separate judicial review applications against the AG’s DNAA and NFA decisions: “We will be asking for it to either be adjourned or stayed pending the hearing of our substantive application for judicial review.”
Zahid’s lawyer Datuk Hisyam Teh Poh Teik said the legal team would seek his client’s instructions about next week’s acquittal matter, which he confirmed is scheduled for decision at the High Court: “We will take further instructions on that as well and will discuss among ourselves as to what do on the 14th of May.”
Hisyam said the legal team would study the judgment today in greater detail and move on to the next stage of the judicial review hearing at the High Court.
He noted that the Court of Appeal today did not rule on whether anyone was guilty or not: “In other words, this is only at the leave stage, and what is important is the court emphasises that as far as the leave stage is concerned, the threshold is low, so long as the grounds canvassed are not frivolous or vexatious, leave will be heard.”
When asked if an appeal would be filed against the court’s decision today, Hisyam said this would have to be discussed with the AG: “We will discuss among ourselves, the legal team, we will take further instructions again, and we will also liaise with the Chamber’s of the AG.”
Source: malaymail.com
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Selangor Royal Council defends Sultan Sharafuddin’s role, rejects claims of interference in state affairs
06 May 2026
KUALA LUMPUR, May 6 — The Selangor Royal Council has rejected claims that the Sultan of Selangor Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah interfered in state administration, saying his Royal Address at the opening of the state legislative assembly was consistent with his role as a constitutional monarch.
In a statement, the council said criticisms by certain political leaders and parties over the Royal Address delivered on April 20, 2026, were “biased and negative”, and stemmed from a misunderstanding of the monarch’s constitutional role.
It said the Royal Address, or “Titah”, should not be interpreted as political interference but as a form of royal advice aimed at ensuring that state administration remains aligned with the Federal Constitution and the Selangor Constitution 1959, while safeguarding public interest and welfare.
“The Royal Address is intended to ensure that all actions of the state government are in line with the Constitution and laws, with the welfare of the people as the priority,” the council said.
Clarifying the role of the monarch in Selangor’s constitutional framework, the council said the Menteri Besar is required to consult the Sultan on matters relating to state administration, particularly those involving public interest.
It said consultation in this context means the Sultan is informed of developments in state affairs and is able to provide advice before final decisions are made.
“The views and advice of His Royal Highness are guided solely by the interests of the people and are not influenced by political considerations,” it said.
The council stressed that any advice, reprimand or warning issued by the Sultan should be viewed as part of his responsibility as Head of State to ensure accountable and responsible governance.
It added that the Sultan has consistently emphasised the importance of effective governance and action, rather than what it described as “empty promises”, in addressing issues affecting the public.
The statement also addressed concerns over public grievances received by the palace, saying the Sultan frequently receives complaints on issues such as flooding, waste management, road conditions and other community concerns.
It said such complaints are submitted directly by members of the public, complete with names, addresses and contact details, and should not be dismissed as anonymous or politically motivated correspondence.
“These are genuine complaints from citizens who are seeking attention to real problems affecting their daily lives,” the council said.
Source: malaymail.com
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South Asia
Waqf administrator meets PM Tarique Rahman
07 May 2026
Bangladesh Waqf Administrator Safiz Uddin Ahmed met Prime Minister Tarique Rahman this morning.
The meeting was held at his Cabinet Division office in the Secretariat, according to the prime minister’s press wing.
Religious Affairs Minister Kazi Shah Mofazzal Houssain (Kaikobad), MP Shamim Kaiser Lincoln and Religious Affairs Secretary Munshi Alauddin Al Azad were present at the meeting.
The waqf administration works on the management and welfare-oriented use of waqf properties across the country.
Source: thedailystar.net
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https://www.thedailystar.net/news/bangladesh/news/waqf-administrator-meets-pm-tarique-rahman-4169821
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Over 4,700 Afghans return as UN warns only 11% are employed
By Fidel Rahmati
May 7, 2026
More than 4,700 Afghan migrants returned to Afghanistan in a single day, media reported, as the UN warns most returnees face unemployment challenges.
More than 4,700 Afghan migrants returned to the country in a single day, Taliban-controlled media reported, highlighting a continued surge in cross-border returns from neighbouring countries.
Bakhtar News Agency said on Wednesday, May 6, that 4,711 individuals, including 897 families, entered Afghanistan in the latest wave of returns.
The United Nations has warned that only around 11 percent of returnees are currently employed, underscoring growing concerns over unemployment and reintegration challenges inside Afghanistan.
The latest figures come just days after more than 800 families reportedly returned, reflecting a steady flow of migrants arriving from Iran and Pakistan amid tightening residency and border policies in both countries.
The United Nations estimates that around 2.8 million Afghan migrants returned from Iran and Pakistan in 2025 alone, placing additional pressure on already strained humanitarian services inside Afghanistan.
UN-Habitat has also reported that nearly three million returns in the previous year contributed to a population increase of about 10 percent, intensifying demand for housing, jobs, and basic infrastructure in urban and rural areas.
Source: khaama.com
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https://www.khaama.com/over-4700-afghans-return-as-un-warns-only-11-are-employed/
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Foreign Ministry Expresses Condolences Over Deadly Explosion in China’s Henan Province
May 7, 2026
KABUL: The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan has expressed deep sorrow over the casualties caused by an explosion at a fireworks factory in Luoyang City, located in China’s Henan Province.
In an official statement on Wednesday, the ministry conveyed its heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims affected by the tragic incident and expressed sympathy with the people and government of China during this difficult time.
The Islamic Emirate’s Foreign Ministry reaffirmed its solidarity with the bereaved families and wished peace and comfort for those impacted by the explosion.
Source: thekabultimes.com
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https://www.thekabultimes.com/foreign-ministry-expresses-condolences-over-deadly-explosion-in-chinas-henan-province/
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Hanafi Chairs Meeting on Groundwater Protection, Water Resource Management
May 7, 2026
KABUL: A meeting was held under the chairmanship of Mawlawi Abdul Salam Hanafi, the Deputy Prime Minister for Administrative Affairs of the Islamic Emirate, focusing on strengthening groundwater reserves and ensuring effective use of the country’s water resources.
The meeting was attended by senior officials, including the ministers of finance, rural rehabilitation and development, agriculture, irrigation and livestock, as well as representatives from the Ministry of Energy and Water and the General Directorate of Administrative Affairs, Arg said in a statement on Wednesday.
Discussions centered on preventing water wastage, improving water supply for agricultural lands, and continuing the construction of check dams and water reservoirs aimed at protecting and replenishing groundwater resources.
The meeting also emphasised the importance of expanding agricultural irrigation canals, promoting drip irrigation systems, and ensuring efficient management of national water resources to support sustainable agriculture and long-term water security.
Source: thekabultimes.com
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Investment Applications of Returning Traders, Industrialists Assessed, Ministry
May 7, 2026
KABUL: A meeting has been held under the chairmanship of Shahbuddin Saqib, Deputy Minister for Finance and Administration of the Ministry of Industry and Commerce, to assess investment applications of returning traders and industrialists.
The Ministry of Industry and Commerce said in a statement on Wednesday that business documents and investment records of seven returning Afghan traders and industrialists from Iran and Pakistan who are active in sectors including perfume production, construction paint manufacturing, plastic and PVC water storage products, and poultry farming have been assessed in the meeting.
Following a detailed assessment, six applicants were officially recognized as eligible traders and industrialists under the committee’s regulations, the statement said, adding that their combined investment value exceeds $29.6 million.
The statement added that the approved investors will benefit from special incentives and facilities provided under the committee’s framework, aimed at encouraging investment, supporting domestic production, and strengthening Afghanistan’s industrial sector.
Source: thekabultimes.com
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MoIC Launches Strict Market Monitoring to Ban Fireworks Sales in Kabul
May 7, 2026
KABUL: The Ministry of Industry and Commerce has launched intensified inspections across Kabul markets to prevent the sale of fireworks.
The inspection teams visited markets in Kabul’s sixth and seventh districts in line with directives issued by the leadership of the Islamic Emirate, the ministry said in a statement on Wednesday.
According to the statement, shopkeepers were officially prohibited from selling firecrackers, and vendors found possessing such items were instructed to stop sales immediately and return the goods to traders.
The move was initiated following public complaints and aims to maintain public order and prevent disturbances caused by the use of firecrackers.
Source: thekabultimes.com
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https://www.thekabultimes.com/moic-launches-strict-market-monitoring-to-ban-fireworks-sales-in-kabul/
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Kabul, Tehran Discuss Expansion of Trade, Infrastructure Cooperation
May 7, 2026
KABUL: The country’s Minister of Public Works, Mullah Mohammad Isa Sani, met with Iranian Ambassador Alireza Bikdeli, here in Kabul, to discuss strengthening economic and trade relations as well as expanding joint infrastructure projects between the two neighboring countries, the ministry said in a statement on Wednesday.
The Iranian ambassador announced the launch of the second phase of the Abu Nasr Farahi–Mil 78 Port road project, which stretches 53 kilometers.
He stated that 42 kilometers of the road have already been completed, while work on the remaining 11 kilometers is progressing rapidly.
The first phase of the road, measuring 64 kilometers, had been completed earlier.
The entire 117-kilometer route is considered one of the most important trade and transit corridors linking Afghanistan and Iran.
Source: thekabultimes.com
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https://www.thekabultimes.com/kabul-tehran-discuss-expansion-of-trade-infrastructure-cooperation/
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