Over 200 Al-Nusra Terrorists Killed in Army’s Ambush in Southern Syria
New Age Islam News Bureau
28 Dec
2013
Over 200 Al-Nusra Terrorists Killed in Army’s Ambush in Southern Syria
Arab World
• Over 200 Al-Nusra Terrorists Killed in Army’s Ambush in Southern Syria
• Syrian Army Kills at Least 150 Militants near Qalamoun
• Syrian Army Kills over 50 Militants in Eastern Ghouta
• Syria regime bombs Aleppo market, 35 dead
• Iraq forces arrest Sunni MP, kill brother and 5 guards
• Egyptian Junta designates Muslim Brotherhood as “Terrorist Organization” to Crush Dissent
• Saudi Arabia Faces Blowbacks of Supporting Extremism
• Saudi Arabia restored as defendant in suit by 9/11 families
• Hezbollah says Lebanon blast targets national unity
Mideast
• Push to recruit Arab Christians into Israeli army
• As 2014 dawns, Israel keeps a nervous eye on regional jihadist groups
• Senior Cleric Reiterates Iranian Nation’s Rigid Stance on N. Rights
• Israeli official slams Netanyahu, warns of boycott
• Muslims in Montenegro pray for Turkish PM
• Facebook businesses boom in Gaza amid unemployment
South Asia
• Tribunal to investigate 195 Pakistani war criminal soldiers
• The Pope's invitation to "fraternity ", the only path to peace in Myanmar
• Hizb-ut men clash with cops in Dhaka
• Jamaat-Shibir plan to isolate Dhaka from country
• Hasina unveils manifesto, vows action against anarchists
• Christians enjoy peaceful Christmas in Bangladesh but terrorism continues to cast its shadow
North America
• US missiles and drones may provoke upheaval of violence in Iraq - expert
• A new war: Websites’ fight against nasty comments
• Jews, Muslims build relationships after volunteer work
• US Man Pleads Guilty to Terror Charges, Aiding Al-Qaeda in Syria
• Secret Israeli report on Temple Mount, buried by government, published in U.S.
• Wheaton Islamic Center hopes to create community, interfaith dialogue
Europe
• Dramatic surge in hate crimes against Muslims recorded in the UK
• HRW condemns as politically driven Egypt's decision to tag Brotherhood 'terrorist group'
• One of most-wanted Russia's militants neutralised in Dagestan
• State of emergency declared in Russia's south city after car bomb kills 3
• US, UK suspend Aid to Syrian “Moderates” as Fundamentalists Grab Western Supplies
Pakistan
• Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah’s effort to Islamise society was thwarted
• Jamaat-i-Islami moot on Abdul Qadir Mullah today
• Bilawal declares war against Taliban at start of political career
• So many things are fueling revolt against state: Fazlur Rehman
• Polio worker killed, two others injured in Peshawar firing
• FC recovers huge cache of arms near Quetta
• Drug smuggling should be stopped through joint patrolling: Indo-Pak security forces
India
• India, Pakistan agree to send back inadvertent border crossers
• Indian Hindu outfit offers to perform Karseva in Pakistani temples
Southeast Asia
• SBY Pledges to Protect Pluralism at Christmas Celebration
• Selangor cannot stop Christians from using ‘Allah’, says non-Muslim group
• 265 Indonesian migrant workers face death penalty in several countries including Saudi Arabia
• Leave Malaysia if you don’t like BN, says Wanita Umno leader
Africa
• Nigeria: Sultan, Aregbesola Decry Violence, Urge Inter-Religious Tolerance
• Few voters in Nigerian state amid Islamic uprising
• Cameroon Takes Steps against Boko Haram
• Brotherhood 'terrorist' label targets gains of Jan 25: Tunisia's Ennahda
• South Sudan rebel leader Riek Machar wary of truce offer
Compiled by New Age Islam News Bureau
For Details and More Headlines from All Regions, Please click, ‘More’
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Arab World
Over 200 Al-Nusra Terrorists Killed in Army’s Ambush in Southern Syria
Dec 28 2013
TEHRAN (FNA)- The Syrian army killed a large number of militants affiliated to an Al-Qaeda-linked terrorist group in an ambush near Qarreh town in Damascus countryside.
The army killed more than 200 terrorists and injured plenty more of the Al-Nusra Front in Al-Qalmoun district of Qarreh town in Reef (outskirts of) Damascus on Friday, FNA dispatches said.
Scores of Al-Nusra Front militants also surrendered themselves to the Syrian army.
Also in the last 24 hours, the Syrian army defused 26 Israeli-made mines planted by armed rebels in Daraa in Southern Syria.
Meantime, the armed rebels whose presence has declined in Damascus countryside are looking forward to signing an agreement with the Syrian army to surrender themselves and handing over the regions controlled by them, a rebel spokesman told FNA.
On Wednesday, the Syrian government managed to stage a successful mediation effort between its supporters and opponents in the two strategic regions of Moazamieh and Barzeh in Damascus, bringing the two sides into reconciliation.
The National Reconciliation Committee affiliated to the Syrian government succeeded in bringing the two opposing parties to reconciliation after weeks of efforts accompanied by similar efforts by other outside parties, a local source in Moazamieh region in Damascus told FNA on Wednesday.
All armed rebels have now withdrawn from Moazamieh region and Syria's national flag is now back hoisting in the region again.
Meantime, another national reconciliation also took place in Barzeh in the Northern parts of Damascus and mediators have managed to resolve the differences between supporters and opponents of the government in there too.
Elsewhere, a number of recently-released Saudi prisoners who have jail terms for criminal charges have joined the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) terrorist group in Yemen.
Also, Syrian Minister of State for National Reconciliation Affairs Ali Haidar stressed that Iran’s presence in the long-awaited Geneva II conference on Syria will be necessary.
“Iran is a friend of all freedom-seeking nations and its role in the upcoming conference scheduled to open on January 22 in the Swiss city of Montreux is decisive and instrumental,” the Syrian minister said.
He underlined that Iran is a long-time friend and ally of the Syrian government and nation.
Syria has been experiencing unrest since March 2011 with organized attacks by well-armed gangs and terrorists against both the army and civilians.
Tens of thousands of people have been killed since terrorist and armed groups turned protest rallies into armed clashes.
The government blames outlaws, saboteurs, and armed terrorist groups for the deaths, stressing that the unrest is being orchestrated from abroad.
http://english.farsnews.com/newstext.aspx?nn=13921007000362
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Syrian Army Kills at Least 150 Militants near Qalamoun
Dec 28 2013
TEHRAN (FNA)- At least 150 foreign backed militants were killed in an ambush by Syrian government troops near Damascus, Syria's state television reported.
The attack near Qalamoun, Northeast of the capital, killed dozens of terrorists.
A military official said the dead included militants from the Al-Qaeda linked al-Nusra Front, Al-Alam reported Friday.
The attack happened between the Christian town of Maaloula and the town of Yabroud, where government forces and foreign backed militant groups are fighting.
Syrian state television showed footage of dozens of bodies lying in a mountainous area, with weapons next to them.
The Syrian army also conducted successful clean-up operations across the country on Thursday.
The army continued its operations in the villages of Jadideh, Erbid, Kwairis, al-Zarzour, Mayer and al-Ziyarah in Aleppo, killing scores of the militants.
Elsewhere, in Taftanaz, Maarat al-Nua’man and Maarat Misrin in Idlib countryside, the Syrian army killed a number of the militants after storming their hideouts.
Moreover, in the countryside of the capital city of Damascus, the Syrian troops killed scores of the militants during their mop-up operations.
In and around the city of Adra, members of several militant groups were also killed during similar operations.
Syria has been gripped by deadly unrest since 2011. According to reports, western powers and their regional allies -- especially Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Turkey -- are supporting the militants operating inside the country.
http://english.farsnews.com/newstext.aspx?nn=13921007000609
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Syrian Army Kills over 50 Militants in Eastern Ghouta
Dec 28 2013
TEHRAN (FNA)- The Syrian army killed tens of armed rebels in an ambush in Eastern Ghouta in Damascus countryside.
The army units killed more than 50 militants in Deir Salman town in Eastern Ghouta in heavy clashes on Saturday.
Meantime the army killed tens of foreign backed militants in an ambush between the Christian town of Maaloula and the town of Yabroud near Damascus today.
Syrian state television showed footage of dozens of bodies lying in a mountainous area, with weapons next to them.
Syria has been experiencing unrest since March 2011 with organized attacks by well-armed gangs and terrorists against both the army and civilians.
Tens of thousands of people have been killed since terrorist and armed groups turned protest rallies into armed clashes.
The government blames outlaws, saboteurs, and armed terrorist groups for the deaths, stressing that the unrest is being orchestrated from abroad.
http://english.farsnews.com/newstext.aspx?nn=13921007000662
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Syria regime bombs Aleppo market, 35 dead
World Bulletin / News Desk
Dec 28 2013
At least 35 people were killed as a regime helicopter dropped barrel bombs on a market square in Syria's largest city Aleppo on Saturday, activists said.
Local Coordination Committees (LCC) of Syria reported that a regime helicopter carried out an air strike on a market square of the opposition-controlled Tariq-Al-Bab district of Aleppo.
The wave of barrel bombs left 35 people dead, tens of people wounded, LCC said.
More than 100,000 people have been killed in almost three years of conflict in Syria and over two million Syrians are now registered as refugees in neighboring countries, Turkey, Lebanon and Iraq, according to the UN.
http://www.worldbulletin.net/?aType=haber&ArticleID=125856
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Iraq forces arrest Sunni MP, kill brother and 5 guards
December 28, 2013
Iraqi security forces on Saturday raided the home of a Sunni MP who backs anti-government protesters, arresting him and sparking clashes that killed his brother and five guards, police said.
Ahmed al-Alwani's arrest and the deaths during the raid threaten to inflame widespread discontent among Iraq's minority Sunni Arab community and could compound the rampant violence bedevilling the country.
"Security forces attacked the residence of MP Ahmed al-Alwani in central Ramadi to arrest him this morning, sparking a battle with his guards with automatic weapons and rocket-propelled grenades," a police major told AFP, referring to the capital of Anbar province west of Baghdad.
"Five of Alwani's guards and his brother were killed and eight others wounded, while 10 security forces members were also wounded," the major said.
A police captain confirmed the details of the raid, while a doctor at the Ramadi hospital confirmed the toll.
It was not immediately clear why Alwani, in his 40s and serving his second term as an MP, was arrested, though he is a well-known supporter of Sunni Arab anti-government protesters camped on a highway near Ramadi, and has frequently spoken at the site.
Protests broke out in Sunni Arab-majority areas of Iraq late last year after the arrest of guards of then-finance minister Rafa al-Essawi, an influential Sunni Arab politician, on terrorism charges.
The arrests were seen by Iraqi Sunnis as the latest example of the Shiite-led government targeting one of their leaders.
But the demonstrations have tapped into deeper grievances, with Sunnis saying they are both marginalised by the Shiite-led government and unfairly targeted with heavy-handed tactics by security forces.
Iraqi Prime Minister Nuri al-Maliki, a Shiite, said on December 22 that the protest site near Ramadi had become a headquarters for Al-Qaeda, and called on legitimate demonstrators to leave.
"I say clearly and honestly that the sit-in site in Anbar has turned into a headquarters for the leadership of Al-Qaeda," Maliki said in remarks broadcast on state television.
He called on "those who are with them in this place who refuse sabotage and who have legal or illegal demands... to leave these camps, and leave this place, so that Al-Qaeda stays alone," adding protesters had a "very short period" in which to leave.
Sunni discontent has been a key factor in the escalating unrest in Iraq this year, boosting recruitment for militant groups, pushing them to carry out attacks and eroding cooperation with security forces.
But while the government has made some concessions aimed at placating Sunni Arabs, including freeing prisoners and raising the salaries of anti-Al-Qaeda fighters, underlying issues remain unaddressed.
The last major security operation at a protest site, near the northern town of Hawijah on April 23, sparked clashes in which dozens of people were killed.
Nationwide death tolls from violence has spiked, reaching a level not seen since 2008, when the country was just emerging from a brutal period of sectarian killings.
More than 6,700 people have been killed in violence since the beginning of the year, according to AFP figures based on security and medical reports.
Rafa al-Essawi, an influential Sunni Arab politician, on terrorism charges.
The arrests were seen by Iraqi Sunnis as the latest example of the Shiite-led government targeting one of their leaders.
http://english.ahram.org.eg/NewsContent/2/8/90222/World/Region/Iraq-forces-arrest-Sunni-MP,-kill-brother-and--gua.aspx
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Egyptian Junta designates Muslim Brotherhood as “Terrorist Organization” to Crush Dissent
By Juan Cole | Dec. 26, 2013
In Egypt, the interim appointed government of Prime Minister Hazem Biblawi, backed by the military junta that made the coup of July 3, on Wednesday formally categorized the Muslim Brotherhood as a terrorist organization. The decree was published by the feared Interior Ministry (kind of like US FBI but with torture) on its Facebook page.
It was a startling further turnaround in the fortunes of the Muslim Brotherhood, founded in 1928 by schoolteacher Hassan al-Banna as a form of political Islam (injecting religion into politics). After being semi-banned during the presidency of Hosni Mubarak (r. 1981-2011), the Brotherhood’s Freedom and Justice Party was recognized as legitimate. It won the parliamentary elections of late fall 2011 and in June of 2012 its standard-bearer, Muhammad Morsi, won the presidency. After a year in office, Morsi’s heavy-handed and sectarian ruling style and a shrinking economy had turned millions of Egyptians away from him. In late June massive public demonstrations demanded that he stand for a recall election. On July 3, the powerful Egyptian officer corps intervened to place Morsi under arrest and to conduct a nationalist coup against Brotherhood rule. In the aftermath, 2000 high Brotherhood officials were arrested, and major sit-ins were cleared by main force, leaving about 1,000 dead (thought that number includes some police shot dead by Brotherhood snipers).
Full report at:
http://www.juancole.com/2013/12/designates-brotherhood-organization.html
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Saudi Arabia Faces Blowbacks of Supporting Extremism
Dec 28 2013
TEHRAN (FNA)- Measures of the House of Saud in sponsoring extremists in other Middle East countries such as Syria and fueling sectarian war will have serious consequences for themselves, although the officials think that geographical distance may preserve them, a report said.
Brian M. Downing in an article for Iran Review said that these policies of Saudi Arabia for supporting anti-Shiite militants in the region definitely will have consequences for that country and its fragile internal security.
He said that ten percent of the Saudi population is consisted of Shiite groups which mostly are residents of oil-rich eastern regions and at the same time are deprived of education and employment opportunities.
Full report at:
However Israel slammed the agreement, with Netanyahu describing it as a "historic mistake".
http://english.farsnews.com/newstext.aspx?nn=13921007000876
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Saudi Arabia restored as defendant in suit by 9/11 families
Dec 28 2013
NEW YORK -- A New York federal appeals court has restored Saudi Arabia as a defendant in a lawsuit brought by thousands of people affected by the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks.
Former Florida Sen. Bob Graham, who co-chaired a joint congressional inquiry into the attacks, called the ruling a "very significant breakthrough," BrowardBulldog.org reported Tuesday.
Saudi Arabia was dismissed from the lawsuit in 2005 on grounds of sovereign immunity, although there are exceptions for acts of terrorism. Saudi officials had called allegations in the suit "categorically false."
Full report at:
http://www.arabamericannews.com/news/index.php?mod=article&cat=USA&article=8049
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Hezbollah says Lebanon blast targets national unity
December 28, 2013
Lebanese Shiite group Hezbollah said a car bomb that killed six people including an influential member of the country's anti-Damascus coalition Friday was aimed at destroying "national unity."
Hezbollah did not react to March 14's implicit accusation that the group, along with ally Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, was behind the attack.
"Hezbollah believes this despicable crime is one of a series of... attacks aimed at destroying the country," it said.
Full report at:
http://english.ahram.org.eg/NewsContent/2/8/90216/World/Region/Hezbollah-says-Lebanon-blast-targets-national-unit.aspx
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Mideast
Push to recruit Arab Christians into Israeli army
Dec 28, 2013
Nazareth, Israel: Dozens of Israeli soldiers respectfully rose from their seats as the Israeli national anthem began playing. The tinny recording of "Hatikva," an ode to the Jewish yearning for the Land of Israel, wrapped up a ceremony, held in Hebrew, during which speakers thanked the troops and handed out awards. It looked like a typical motivational gathering for soldiers of the Jewish state — except that nearly all those in uniform weren't Jews and Hebrew wasn't their first language. They were Christian Arabs, a minority that has historically viewed itself as part of the Palestinian people and considered service in the army as taboo. The gathering — a pre-Christmas nod to Christian soldiers, who nibbled on cookies and chocolate Santas — was part of a new push by Israel's government and a Greek Orthodox priest to persuade more Christians to enlist.
Full report at:
http://www.firstpost.com/world/push-to-recruit-arab-christians-into-israeli-army-1310701.html?utm_source=ref_article
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As 2014 dawns, Israel keeps a nervous eye on regional jihadist groups
Dec 28 2013
Israeli military intelligence analysts warn of more instability and uncertainty, but say that the evolving situation in Iran could offer opportunities as well as danger.
The flare-up during the past week along the border of the Gaza Strip had faded by Wednesday. The rise in the number of losses - first a Palestinian, then an Israeli and then a Palestinian toddler were killed - made it clear to the sides that the situation was liable to lurch out of control. The outgoing year, the quietest experienced by Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip for more than a decade, could have ended with a major deterioration into violence.
This is where Cairo entered the picture. As in previous cases in which tensions rose throughout the year that has passed since Operation Pillar of Defense, the Egyptians sent threatening and unequivocal messages to Hamas to hold its fire. The Egyptian army also issued a statement this week in which it claimed that it had thwarted an attack by a Hamas man from Gaza who planned to detonate a booby-trapped car next to the headquarters of the Egyptian security forces in northern Sinai.
Full report at:
http://www.haaretz.com/weekend/week-s-end/.premium-1.565709
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Senior Cleric Reiterates Iranian Nation’s Rigid Stance on N. Rights
Dec 28 2013
TEHRAN (FNA)- Tehran's provisional Friday Prayers Leader Mohammad Emami Kashani once again underlined the peaceful nature of Iran’s nuclear program, and said that the Iranian nation will never quit its inalienable right to peaceful nuclear technology.
Addressing a large and fervent congregation of the people on Tehran University campus on Friday, Emami Kashani said, “The Iranian nation is a powerful and integrated nation and it will never allow its dignity and rights to be ignored and it will fully defend its rights.”
Tehran’s provisional Friday prayers leader pointed to the Zionists’ attempts to counter Iran and impose new sanctions on the nation, and said, “The Zionist lobby in the US congress are exercising a news boycott in relation to Iran.”
Full report at:
http://english.farsnews.com/newstext.aspx?nn=13921006000546
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Israeli official slams Netanyahu, warns of boycott
World Bulletin / News Desk
A senior Israeli official has said that the Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu is leading Israel to sanctions and boycotts with his policies.
Speaking to Israel’s Ynet, the website of Israeli newspaper Yedioth Ahronoth, the official, who refused to give a name, said that Netanyahu’s policies are only drawing international criticism of Israel and warned that boycott calls would only expand in 2014.
"A UN resolution is not needed in order to impose sanctions on us or boycott Israeli products. It is sufficient for one country to start doing it and then it spreads across Europe. We are a country that exports, and in light of the situation with the Palestinians and the continued occupation, we are seen as an apartheid state. A boycott of Israel is the most dangerous thing that exists today. The deterioration [of the situation] can be very rapid," the official said.
Full report at:
http://www.worldbulletin.net/?aType=haber&ArticleID=125851
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Muslims in Montenegro pray for Turkish PM
World Bulletin / News Desk
Muslims in Montenegro offered prayers for the Turkish prime minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan during Friday prayers, asking God to help Turkish PM Recep Tayyip Erdogan to overcome the recent crisis in the Turkish government.
Mufti Sadmir Hadzljic in Tuzi's Nizam's mosque said that the Muslims of Montenegro "see Turkey as their mother and pray to God to help this country and its premier in the current crisis."
Full report at:
http://www.worldbulletin.net/?aType=haber&ArticleID=125830
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Facebook businesses boom in Gaza amid unemployment
Dec 28 2013
GAZA CITY, Gaza Strip — With the increasing number of unemployed youths in Gaza, many young women have turned to social media as a way to both productively use their time and to obtain a source of income. As a result, many Facebook shopping and service pages were recently launched, either by individuals or groups.
Most of these pages are basically concerned with clothes, cosmetics and accessories, yet there are many pages that provide services such as organizing events, preparing gifts or selling homemade food.
The idea seems to be ideal for those who have a little money to invest. They can sell goods, advertise them for free and not pay a single penny for rent in shopping areas. ? The pages were welcomed by many female customers, particularly since it is the first time that people in Gaza have experienced online shopping.
Full report at:
http://www.al-monitor.com/pulse/originals/2013/12/gaza-facebook-businesses-unemployment.html#ixzz2pkp51zx0
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South Asia
Tribunal to investigate 195 Pakistani war criminal soldiers
December 28, 2013
A judicial investigation against 195 Pakistani soldiers accused of war crimes during 1971 will begin soon, sources say. A meeting has already been held between the investigation agency and the tribunal prosecutors. Tribunal prosecutor Tureen Afroz has confirmed the meeting. She said: “There were some preliminary meetings. Discussion has been carried out with the investigation agency. We reviewed whether there are any legal obstacles and all reached a consensus that, preliminarily, we will submit case files against as many accused as possible.” Crimes committed by the soldiers, such as murder, mass-murder, arson, looting and torture, will be probed. Tureen said: “First, we will formally place a demand to the Pakistan High Commission to Bangladesh to learn the status of the accused 195 Pakistani war criminal soldiers; that is, whether they are alive or not. Alongside this, an independent investigation will also be carried out. After making a primary list, an investigation process will be initiated against five to 10 of the accused who are alive, and who were previously charged.” When asked if there are any legal barriers to bringing the Pakistani soldiers to trial in Bangladesh, Tureen said there were no such obstacles.
Full report at:
http://www.dhakatribune.com/law-amp-rights/2013/dec/28/tribunal-investigate-195-pakistani-soldiers#sthash.lT10sw20.dpuf
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The Pope's invitation to "fraternity ", the only path to peace in Myanmar
Dec 28 2013
Yangon ( AsiaNews) - On the eve of the New Year, Myanmar prepares for "the dawn of a new era" characterized by "freedom , democracy, justice , peace, hope and fraternity among the different souls of this wonderful nation", writes Msgr. Charles Bo, Archbishop of Yangon. His message addressed to the Catholics of Burma for January 1, 2014 , on the occasion of the World Day of Peace is a message that will inspire confidence and unity. Over the past two years, the country " has opened its doors to the world," through a series of reforms in favour of democratic freedoms as well as some major economic, social and political reforms. "Today - adds the prelate in the document sent to AsiaNews - is more space for civil society, the media and political actors". A stable and lasting peace with ethnic minorities and the release of all political prisoners are the objectives to be achieved in a nation in which "for the first time in over 50 years," there are " concrete reasons for hope " for the future.
Full report at:
http://www.asianews.it/news-en/Archbishop-of-Yangon:-the-Pope's-invitation-to-fraternity-,-the-only-path-to-peace-in-Myanmar-29905.html
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Hizb-ut men clash with cops in Dhaka
December 28, 2013
At least seven suspected Hizb-ut Tahrir men were hit by pellets when police opened fire during a clash with the banned militant outfit's activists in the capital's Segunbagicha and adjacent areas yesterday, leading to the detainment of 50 persons.
The organisation had sent letters to the media on Thursday asking to cover a rally they planned to organise in Muktangon after Juma prayers at 2:30pm yesterday and accordingly some 250 activists brought out a procession from Segunbagicha.
When police gave chase with teargas, they split, spreading from the High Court to Bijoy Nagar, and threw stones and, as police claimed, crude bombs during the half-an-hour clash.
One of the injured, Monirul Islam, 30, undergoing treatment at Dhaka Medical College Hospital, claimed that police caught him from the area and shot him on his left thigh at point blank range.
Full report at:
http://www.thedailystar.net/city/hizb-ut-men-clash-with-cops-in-capital-4327#.UsyjOtJDsqM
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Jamaat-Shibir plan to isolate Dhaka from country
Manik Miazee
December 28, 2013
Jamaat-e-Islami and its student wing Islami Chhatra Shibir have prepared themselves to support the BNP-led 18-party opposition alliance’s March for Democracy programme on Sunday and take a stand against government.
Some leaders of Jamaat’s Dhaka City unit told the Dhaka Tribune seeking anonymity that if they did not get permission from the concerned authorities for the programme, they would separate Dhaka from other districts and the party was preparing several of its groups for vandalism.
Full report at:
http://www.dhakatribune.com/politics/2013/dec/28/jamaat-shibir-plan-isolate-dhaka-country#sthash.Bwfig9Nh.dpuf
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Hasina unveils manifesto, vows action against anarchists
December 28, 2013
Prime Minister and Awami League chief Sheikh Hasina today unveiled her party's manifesto for the upcoming parliamentary election, pledging punishment to those who are carrying out anarchy and destruction in the name of political demonstration.
"Those who are killing people, carrying out terrorism, destroying mosques and industries, damaging and disrupting rail and road communications, destroying public and private properties, attacking minorities and their place of worships, and felling trees will have to face punishment," she announced.
Full report at:
http://www.thedailystar.net/hasina-unveils-manifesto-vows-action-against-anarchists-4395#.Usyd2NJDsqM
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Christians enjoy peaceful Christmas in Bangladesh but terrorism continues to cast its shadow
Dec 28 2013
Dhaka (AsiaNews) - Christians in Bangladesh spent a peaceful Christmas without violence, freely moving around the country as police protected their churches thanks to the government, which responded to an appeal for security made by some Catholic leaders.
However, the joy of the holidays is likely to give way very soon to fresh unrest. The leading opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) is planning a new general strike (hartal) on Sunday to oppose parliamentary elections set for 5 January 2014.
In response, the prime minister has ordered the deployment of tens of thousands of soldiers. For ordinary Bangladeshis, the ongoing violence makes for a very tense atmosphere like that of terrorism.
Meanwhile, "On Christmas Day, many policemen protected our churches. We did not have any problems," Subash Rozario, a Catholic from Natore District, told AsiaNews.
All of the country's top government and political leaders equally expressed closeness to the Christian community. Bangladesh President Abdul Hamid, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and BNP Khaleda Zia leader stressed the role Christians play "in the social and educational development of the country", inviting everyone to "work together to build a prosperous Bangladesh free from religious conflicts. "
Full report at:
http://www.asianews.it/news-en/Christians-enjoy-peaceful-Christmas-in-Bangladesh-but-terrorism-continues-to-cast-its-shadow-29904.html
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North America
US missiles and drones may provoke upheaval of violence in Iraq - expert
December 28, 2013
Basing on the use of this technologies in other parts of the world, particularly in Afghanistan and Pakistan, we should be very careful because most probably the use of these machines can provoke more casualties, even in areas where there are no jihadists or Al Qaeda fighters. So, this may provoke an upheaval of violence in the country," Paolo Raffone, Founder of The CIPI Foundation, a Brussels based nonprofit organization, and a very knowledgeable expert on Middle Eastern and Iraqi issues, told the Voice of Russia.
Do you think US missiles and drones might really help to reduce violence in Iraq, or will they only make the situation worse and result in even more civilian casualties?
This is difficult to assess at this stage, but basing on the use of this technologies in other parts of the world, particularly in Afghanistan and Pakistan, we should be very careful because most probably the use of these machines can provoke more casualties, even in areas where there are no jihadists or Al Qaeda fighters. So, this may provoke an upheaval of violence in the country.
Full report at:
http://voiceofrussia.com/2013_12_28/US-missiles-and-drones-may-provoke-upheaval-of-violence-in-Iraq-expert-0672/
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A new war: Websites’ fight against nasty comments
December 28, 2013
NEW YORK — Mix blatant bigotry with poor spelling. Add a dash of ALL CAPS. Top it off with a violent threat. And there you have it: A recipe for the worst of online comments.
Blame anonymity, blame politicians, blame human nature. But a growing number of websites are reining in online commentary. Companies including Google and The Huffington Post are trying everything from deploying moderators to forcing people to use their real names. Some sites, such as Popular Science, are banning comments altogether.
The efforts put sites in a delicate position. User comments add a lively, fresh feel. And, of course, the longer visitors stay to read the posts, and the more they come back, the more a site can charge for advertising.
Full report at:
http://www.saudigazette.com.sa/index.cfm?method=home.regcon&contentid=20131228190718
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Jews, Muslims build relationships after volunteer work
Dec 28 2013
Some St. Louis Muslims and Jews are realizing that they share more in common than they may have thought.
"Good deed," for example, translates to very similar words in Judaic and Islamic texts.
So on Wednesday's third annual Day of Service, members of the Jewish community completed a tzedakah, and Muslims completed a sadaqah.
This year's Christmas Day event brought in more than 700 volunteers to do community service work at 21 sites, said Roberta Gutwein, co-chair for the Day of Service.
The idea was to help Christians rest on their holiday, but it also has resulted in an interfaith bond between Jews and Muslims.
Full report at:
http://www.cair.com/press-center/american-muslim-news/12300-jews-muslims-build-relationships-after-volunteer-work.html
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US Man Pleads Guilty to Terror Charges, Aiding Al-Qaeda in Syria
Dec 28 2013
TEHRAN (FNA)- A California man pleaded guilty Friday to a federal terrorism charge after admitting he attempted to assist Al-Qaeda by providing weapons training.
Sinh Vinh Ngo Nguyen, 24, of Garden Grove entered the plea before US District Court Judge John F. Walter, who scheduled sentencing for March 21, prosecutors said in a statement. Nguyen faces a maximum of 15 years in federal prison.
The statement said Nguyen's admission was contained in a plea agreement filed in federal court, Washington Times reported.
"Nguyen admitted that approximately one year ago he traveled to Syria where he joined opposition forces," the statement said. "Using a social network site during a four-month period he was in Syria, Nguyen told people that he was fighting against the Assad regime and that he had had a 'confirmed kill.'"
Full report at:
http://english.farsnews.com/newstext.aspx?nn=13921007001020
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Secret Israeli report on Temple Mount, buried by government, published in U.S.
Dec 28 2013
The American news website The Jewish Voice has published an Israeli State Comptroller's report on Israeli authorities' conduct regarding digs at Jerusalem's Temple Mount in 2007. In Israel, a gag order was placed on the report due to fears it would harm Israel's foreign relations and spark violent confrontations at the Temple Mount. News of the Jewish Voice report was first published in the Israeli weekend newspaper Sof Hashavua.
The State Comptroller composed the report in 2008, after it was ordered by the State Control Committee in the Knesset. The committee sought to examine the conduct of government authorities following the construction work carried out by the Waqf on the Temple Mount. The Waqf, the Muslim trust that is custodian of the Temple Mount, carried out the construction in order to repair a power line, which included the digging of a 1.5-meter-deep trench at the heart of the site.
Full report at:
http://www.haaretz.com/news/diplomacy-defense/1.565857
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Wheaton Islamic Center hopes to create community, interfaith dialogue
Dec 28 2013
WHEATON – In a city known for its nearly 40 churches, the Islamic Center of Wheaton, which recently opened, is comfortable in its new home.
The center moved into its Wheaton location after the closure of the First Assembly of God Church this fall at 900 E. Geneva Road.
“We consider Wheaton a city of faith,” said center spokesperson Abraham Antar. “I think having a large number of churches in Wheaton provides us an opportunity for interfaith relationships. We want to present ourselves [to the area] because, as well as serving our community, we want to build bridges to other communities and churches in the area.”
The center offers space in its prayer hall for up to 800 people during each of the five traditional prayer times in the Muslim faith. It has proven so popular that during some of its services worshipers have had to use spare classrooms to pray.
Full report at:
http://news.silobreaker.com/wheaton-islamic-center-hopes-to-create-community-interfaith-dialogue-5_2267339606657597498
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Europe
Dramatic surge in hate crimes against Muslims recorded in the UK
December 28, 2013
The number of crimes against Muslims in England and Wales has soared over the past year. It comes in the wake of the killing of soldier, Lee Rigby, by two Islamic extremists last May in London.
London saw 500 anti-Muslim assaults in 2013 compared to 336 in 2012, while in Manchester, the quantity of similar offences doubled over the past year (from 75 to 130), according to London’s Metropolitan police’s data.
However, in some regions of the country the numbers have fallen, or only a few cases of anti-Muslim violence were recorded. It’s important to note, though, that some police forces can’t easily distinguish between incidents motivated by religion and other types of aggression.
"Information is not held specifically for anti-Muslim hate crimes. We do not have a recording system which allows for the recording of specific religions," a Northumbria Police spokesman told the Press Association, the UK’s national news agency.
Full report at:
http://rt.com/news/muslim-uk-crime-rise-906/
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HRW condemns as politically driven Egypt's decision to tag Brotherhood 'terrorist group'
December 28, 2013
Human Rights Watch (HRW) criticised Saturday the interim Egyptian government’s decision to label the Muslim Brotherhood as a terrorist organisation, arguing the decision is politically driven.
"The Egyptian government’s designation of the Muslim Brotherhood as a terrorist organisation appears to be aimed at expanding the crackdown on peaceful Brotherhood activities and imposing harsh sanctions on its supporters," HRW stated, urging the government to reverse its decision.
The statement further argued that the government blamed the Brotherhood for the Mansoura bombing Tuesday without any evidence or a proper investigation.
Full report at:
http://english.ahram.org.eg/NewsContent/1/64/90217/Egypt/Politics-/HRW-condemns-as-politically-driven-Egypts-decision.aspx
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One of most-wanted Russia's militants neutralised in Dagestan
December 28, 2013
Law enforcement officers on Saturday killed a suspected militant in the Russian North Caucasus republic of Dagestan, the National Antiterrorism Committee (NAC) reported.
The suspect was killed when he attempted to break out of a building where he was blocked during a special operation.
He was preliminarily identified as Islam Atiyev born in 1990, a member of terrorist leader Doku Umarov's gang that acted in the neighboring republic of Chechnya.
Atiyev is believed to have made numerous attempts to kill law enforcers.
The gang leader, Umarov, is an Islamist militant leader who has claimed responsibility for numerous deadly attacks on civilians, including blasts in the Moscow subway in 2010 and an explosion in the Domodedovo Airport in 2011.
Full report at:
http://voiceofrussia.com/news/2013_12_28/One-of-most-wanted-Russias-militants-neutralized-in-Dagestan-8631/
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State of emergency declared in Russia's south city after car bomb kills 3
December 28, 2013
Administration the southern Russian city of Pyatigorsk, where 3 people were killed in a car bomb today, declared a state of emergency in the city. The Mayor of the city, Lev Travnev, announced this. The blast took place next to the Road Traffic Safety Department.
"Committee of Emergency Situations held a meeting during which it was decided to announce a state of emergency," stated Travnev.
Earlier in a city headquarters it was said that straight after the explosion the Mayor of the city went to the scene, where the operation office is created. Along with that the Committee of Emergency Situations meeting was held, material damage team was formed. At the same time the administration of Pyatigorsk has noted that the evacuation of the city was not performed.
Full report at:
http://voiceofrussia.com/news/2013_12_28/Authorities-of-Pyatigorsk-declare-state-of-emergency-after-car-bomb-kills-3-2051/
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US, UK suspend Aid to Syrian “Moderates” as Fundamentalists Grab Western Supplies
By Juan Cole | Dec. 13, 2013
The United States and the United Kingdom have suspended aid to the Syrian National Council and its Free Syrian Army, headed by Gen. Salim Idriss, after FSA warehouses of arms were raided by the Islamic Front. It also captured a key border crossing with Turkey. The Islamic Front, a coalition of fundamentalist groups, has emerged as much more important than the fading Free Syrian Army. While the Islamic Front excludes the two major al-Qaeda affiliates in northern Syria, the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) and the Jabhat al-Nusra (The Succor Front), the fact that it was able to grab materiel intended for the coalition the US and UK dub “moderates” has raised alarms that further aid shipments at this time could fall into the hands of extremists.
Full report at:
http://www.juancole.com/2013/12/moderates-fundamentalists-supplies.html
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Pakistan
Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah’s effort to Islamise society was thwarted
Dec 28 2013
ISLAMABAD: Uncovering the mother of all conspiracies to detach Pakistan from its Islamic ideology, the Archives Department of Punjab has revealed how the Department of Islamic Reconstruction (DIR) created by the Father of the Nation to Islamise the society as per the ideology of the country was wound up and its record destroyed soon after the death of Muhammad Ali Jinnah.
Secretary Archives Punjab told The News here on Thursday that soon after the creation of Pakistan, Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah in one of his first executive moves had ordered the setting up of the Department of Islamic Reconstruction with the ultimate objective “to help our community to reconstruct its life on Islamic lines” but it was all undone soon after his demise.
Full report at:
http://www.thenews.com.pk/Todays-News-13-27560-Quaids-effort-to-Islamise-society-was-thwarted
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Jamaat-i-Islami moot on Abdul Qadir Mullah today
December 28, 2013
LAHORE - Jamaat-i-Islami city chapter is holding a national conference to pay tributes to JI Bangladesh leader Abdul Qadir Mullah who was executed by the BD government on December 13 for committing war crimes.
JI Lahore Secretary General Mian Maqsood announced that the conference will be held at Aiwan-e-Iqbal on Friday (today).
Addressing a Press conference on Thursday, Mian Maqsood said that JI chief Munawar Hasan, Maulana Sami ul Haq, Prof Sajid Mir, Liaquat Baloch, Federal Interior Minister Chaudhry Nisar Ali Khan and others will address on the occasion.
http://www.nation.com.pk/lahore/27-Dec-2013/ji-moot-on-bd-leader-today
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Bilawal declares war against Taliban at start of political career
2013-12-28
KARACHI: In a fiery speech at Garhi Khuda Bakhsh to mark the sixth death anniversary of his mother Benzair Bhutto on Friday, patron-in-chief of Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Bilawal Bhutto Zardari declared war against Taliban militants while announcing the start of his political career.
He also indicated that his two sisters, Asifa and Bakhtawar will also participate in practical politics before the next elections, scheduled to be held in 2018.
Accepting that the path he has chosen was full of dangers, Bilawal, in an obvious reference to the tombs of his mother and grandfather Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, said his destiny was “martyrdom and Garhi Khuda Bakhsh”.
Full report at:
http://www.dawn.com/news/1076726/bilawal-declares-war-against-taliban-at-start-of-political-career
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So many things are fueling revolt against state: Fazlur Rehman
December 28, 2013
Chief Jamiat Ulmema-e-Islam (JUI-F) Maulana Fazal-ur-Rehman has said that there are so many things which insights to revolt against state, while his party is against the military operation in any part of the country.
On Friday, while talking to media men in Parliament house he said, JUI (F) opposes the military action in any part of the country including FATA, North,West Wazirsitan, and Karachi.
He said “Curfew is imposed in North Waziristan (NW) whenever military convoy passes, in this situation how a suicide attacker reached to convey? It is a big interrogation mark on the incident took place there.”
Full report at:
http://www.nation.com.pk/islamabad/27-Dec-2013/so-many-things-are-fueling-revolt-against-state-fazlur-rehman
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Polio worker killed, two others injured in Peshawar firing
2013-12-28
PESHAWAR: A polio worker was killed and two others injured Saturday when unknown gunmen attacked Peshawar’s Matni Hospital.
According to the police, unknown gunmen opened indiscriminate fire on entering the hospital and fled from the scene. Subsequently, one polio worker, Zahid Gul, was killed on the spot whereas Ward Orderly Niqab Khan and a woman sustained severe injuries.
The wounded persons were provided with medical treatment.
Meanwhile, policemen reached the site of incident and cordoned off the area while a search operation went underway to apprehend those responsible.
Full report at:
http://www.dawn.com/news/1076922/polio-worker-killed-two-others-injured-in-peshawar-firing
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FC recovers huge cache of arms near Quetta
2013-12-28
QUETTA: Frontier Corps on Saturday claimed to have seized a huge quantity of arms, ammunition, explosives and suicide jackets during a search operation in the outskirt of Quetta, the capital of insurgency-hit Balochistan province.
The FC seized 1650 anti-personnel mines, 480 hand grenades, 2524 kilograms of explosive material, seven suicide jackets and other arms and ammunition during the operation conducted on three compounds located in the suburbs of Quetta.
During the of display of seized equipment, Commander Southern Command, Lieutenant General Nasir Khan Janjua lauded the role of FC and intelligence agencies and said "I am proud of the intelligence agencies for this remarkable job,"
He added that the terrorists were planning to take the lives of scores of innocent and vulnerable people but the intelligence apparatus timely foiled their plans.
Full report at:
http://www.dawn.com/news/1076926/fc-recovers-huge-cache-of-arms-near-quetta
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Drug smuggling should be stopped through joint patrolling: Indo-Pak security forces
December 28, 2013
LAHORE: A combined patrolling should be done by India and Pakistan to stop drug smuggling across the border, stated the joint release of the five-day Pak-India security forces meeting, Express News reported on Saturday.
“It will be ensured that the decisions taken at the meeting between the Director General Military Operations (DGMO) of Pakistan and India will be executed,” the statement added.
The first, long-awaited meeting between the DGMOs was held on December 24 at the Wagah border to devise a plan to prevent ceasefire violations at the Line of Control (LoC) in the disputed Himalayan territory of Kashmir. “The agreement on ceasefire will be implemented,” the joint statement said.
Full report at:
http://tribune.com.pk/story/651857/drug-smuggling-should-be-stopped-through-joint-patrolling-indo-pak-security-forces/
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India
India, Pakistan agree to send back inadvertent border crossers
PTI | Dec 28, 2013
LAHORE: India and Pakistan today agreed that people who inadvertently cross the frontier would be immediately returned to their respective countries.
The decision was made during a five-day bi-annual meeting of officials of the Pakistan Rangers and India's Border Security Force here.
According to a statement issued after the talks, the two sides decided to continue efforts to ensure peace and tranquillity on the international border.
The two border guard forces agreed that people who inadvertently cross the frontier would be immediately returned to their respective countries.
The two sides reached consensus on using communication channels more effectively to control violations on the frontier. They also agreed on "zero tolerance" for smuggling.
Consensus was developed on issues like stopping illegal construction' removal of wild growth like scrubs and maintenance of boundary pillars.
Full report at:
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/pakistan/India-Pakistan-agree-to-send-back-inadvertent-border-crossers/articleshow/28053030.cms
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Indian Hindu outfit offers to perform Karseva in Pakistani temples
Yudhvir Rana,TNN | Dec 28, 2013
AMRITSAR: Perturbed over poor maintenance and upkeep of ancient Hindu temples at Katasraj, situated in Chakwal district of Pakistan, the All India Mahajan Jagaran Manch (MJM) has announced to perform 'Karseva' (voluntary service) at these temples.
"They whitewash, clean and put lights in the temples before arrival of Hindu jathas from India and lock them as we leave Katasraj," said MJM president Manch Gulshan Mahajan while talking to TOI on Friday. Mahajan had recently returned from Katasraj pilgrimage. Notably, many Hindu devotees had complained of poor maintenance of Hindu temples and installation of 'khandit' (broken) idols of Hindu deities. A few had even said that they were told by Pak officials that they had kept the idols in a museum for their preservation.
Full report at:
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Hindu-outfit-offers-to-perform-karsewa-in-Pakistani-temples/articleshow/28031695.cms
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Southeast Asia
SBY Pledges to Protect Pluralism at Christmas Celebration
December 28, 2013
President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono on Friday urged the public not to let religious extremism flourish in Indonesia.
“Morally and socially, every leader in the country must prevent and reject extreme and radical behavior,” he said, during the annual official Christmas celebration at the Jakarta Convention Center. “Do not depend on state actions to overcome each obstacle against tolerance and the peacefulness of life in society.”
He added that each part of society must prevent individuals, groups and movement from spreading radicalism.
The celebration was attended by Vice President Boediono, chairman of the Indonesian Bishops’ Conference (KWI) Ignatius Suharyo, interfaith activist Franz Magnis Suseno, cabinet ministers and around 4,000 Christians.
Full report at:
http://www.thejakartaglobe.com/news/yudhoyono-christmas/
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Selangor cannot stop Christians from using ‘Allah’, says non-Muslim group
December 28, 2013
Selangor religious authorities cannot enforce a state law which prohibits Christians from using the word “Allah” as the legislation was declared unconstitutional by the courts four years ago.
Malaysian Consultative Council of Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Sikkhism and Taoism (MCCBCHST) president Jagir Singh said the 2009 decision by High Court judge Datuk Lau Bee Lan ruled that non-Muslims could use words like “Allah” provided it was confined to their own religious groups.
"It is only an offence by non-Muslims to use such words to propagate their religion to Muslims," he told The Malaysian Insider.
The Federal Constitution does not allow the propagation of any other faith to Muslims but there are also state Islamic laws that prohibit some words from being used by other faiths.
Among the laws is an enactment restricting the use of the word “Allah” passed in the Selangor assembly 25 years ago and enforced in July 1988.
Full report at:
http://www.themalaysianinsider.com/malaysia/article/selangor-cannot-stop-christians-from-using-allah-says-non-muslim-group
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265 Indonesian migrant workers face death penalty in several countries including Saudi Arabia
December 28, 2013
As many as 265 Indonesian migrant workers in several countries, including China, Malaysia and Saudi Arabia, may face death penalty, an NGO activist has said.
“In addition to low wages and harsh labor conditions, the death penalty has also threatened our migrant workers,” Migrant Care executive director Anis Hidayah in Surabaya, East Java, on Friday, as quoted by Antara news agency.
She said in Malaysia, 213 Indonesian migrant workers were facing legal problems.
“Seventy out of the total have been sentenced to death. In Saudi Arabia, nine migrant workers are already on death row awaiting execution while 33 cases are being processed,” said Anis.
Full report at:
http://www.thejakartapost.com/news/2013/12/28/265-migrant-workers-face-death-penalty.html
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Leave Malaysia if you don’t like BN, says Wanita Umno leader
December 28, 2013
An Umno leader has called on those who disliked the Barisan Nasional-led government to leave the country.
Kuantan Wanita Umno division chief Datuk Zaiton Mat (pic) said it was easier for certain people to focus on Putrajaya's shortcomings and ignore the efforts made to build peace and harmony in the country.
"It is better for all of us to work together to make this country a better place.
"Some people, who are bent on causing disturbances and disharmony, are not thankful for the benefits they have been getting.
Full report at:
http://www.themalaysianinsider.com/malaysia/article/leave-malaysia-if-you-dont-like-bn-says-umno-wanita-leader
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Africa
Nigeria: Sultan, Aregbesola Decry Violence, Urge Inter-Religious Tolerance
Dec 28 2013
Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa'ad Abubakar, has again called for religious tolerance among adherents of Islam and Christianity.
Speaking at the opening ceremony of the 96th Islamic Vacation Course (IVC) organized by the Muslim Students Society of Nigeria (MSSN) B-Zone, held at the IVC permanent site along the Ibadan/Lagos expressway yesterday, the sultan said tolerance between Muslims and Christians would national peace.
He said acts of violence as being exhibited by members of the Boko Haram had no basis in Islam. Governor Rauf Aregbesola of Osun State said Muslims should preach Islam with knowledge and wisdom as acts of violence negate the teachings of Prophet Muhammad. He called for consistent prayer to end socio- political crisis rocking the country.
Full report at:
http://allafrica.com/stories/201312270683.html
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Few voters in Nigerian state amid Islamic uprising
Dec 28 2013
DAMATURU, Nigeria (AP) — Few voters straggled to polls to elect local councils in a northeastern Nigerian state that is battling Islamic militants who say democracy in corruption-riddled Nigeria is an enemy of the people.
Heavily armed police and State Security Service agents guarded polling stations and manned roadblocks Saturday in Yobe state, which suffered some of the most brutal attacks on schools by extremists this year.
Full report at:
http://news.yahoo.com/few-voters-nigerian-state-amid-islamic-uprising-094737998.html
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Cameroon Takes Steps Against Boko Haram
Dec 28 2013
Maroua — The authorities in Yaoundé, the Cameroonian capital, have set up tighter border controls in the Far North region to guard against infiltration by jihadist Boko Haram fighters from neighbouring Nigeria as civilians flee insurgent attacks and a Nigerian military offensive, seeking safety across the border in Cameroon.
A rapid response military unit has also been deployed and beefed up in the northern regions and some tourist hotels now have armed guards.
"We have revised our security strategy. We have registered all expatriates and established police posts in areas where they work. There are security control posts along the border to reduce illegal entry," said Bob-Iga Emmanuel, the head of police division at the governor's office in the Far North region.
Full report at:
http://allafrica.com/stories/201312271318.html?aa_source=sptlgt-grid
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Brotherhood 'terrorist' label targets gains of Jan 25: Tunisia's Ennahda
December 28, 2013
Tunisia's ruling Islamist Ennahda Party denounced the decision of Egypt's interim government to officially declare the Muslim Brotherhood as a "terrorist group."
The denunciation was announced by party chief Rached Ghannouchi in a press statement on Thursday.
The movement argued that the decision is a "desperate misjudgement divorced from reality and a new act of incitement against a political group that is committed to democracy and peaceful activism."
Full report at:
http://english.ahram.org.eg/NewsContent/2/8/90194/World/Region/Brotherhood-terrorist-label-targets-gains-of-Jan--.aspx
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South Sudan rebel leader Riek Machar wary of truce offer
December 28, 2013
South Sudan rebel leader Riek Machar has said there must be proper negotiations before the rebels can agree to a truce with the government.
He was speaking after the government said it had agreed to an immediate end to fighting, in a declaration welcomed by East African leaders in Nairobi.
Fighting continued on Friday in the oil town of Malakal, Upper Nile State.
The first UN reinforcements have arrived to help control civilians seeking shelter at UN compounds.
Full report at:
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-africa-25531089
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URL: https://newageislam.com/islamic-world-news/over-200-al-nusra-terrorists/d/35042