Rahul Gandhi Meets Kotdwar Gym Trainer 'Mohammad' Deepak, Hails His Act Of 'Courage And Unity'
New Age Islam News Bureau
24 February 2026
· Rahul Gandhi meets Kotdwar gym trainer ‘Mohammad’ Deepak, hails his act of ‘courage and unity’
· Iran, US to hold third round of nuclear talks on Thursday
· Saudi Arabia and other countries condemn Israeli decisions over extending control in West Bank
· 'Pure hearted' boy, 18, pictured after horror fatal stabbing outside mosque
· 'Aggression is aggression': Iran rejects Trump's 'limited strike' remark; says will take decisive action if attacked
· 5 Killed As Lakurawa Terrorists Ambush Army General’s Convoy In Kebbi
· Anwar to foreign envoys: Malaysia’s ‘survival’ hinges on ‘one family’ unity
· Russia Reports Over 20,000 Terrorists in Afghanistan, Warns of Fragile Security
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India
· Student wing members form human chain to shield Muslim students offering namaz outside sealed mosque on Lucknow University campus
· Allahabad High Court observes interfaith live-in relationships not prohibited under UP anti-conversion law
· MP man held captive in UP's Pratapgarh escapes after a decade of ‘slavery’; claims that captors forced him to embrace Islam
· Where does the law stand on Himanta Biswa Sarma’s video of ‘shooting’ Muslims?
· Captain dies in Kupwara, UP village mosque lowers ‘azan’ volume as mark of respect
· Delhi HC rejects PIL against 1980 Waqf notification on properties in Jahangirpuri
· Congress slams Prime Minister's upcoming visit to Israel, alleging Modi 'abandoning' Palestinians
· Army kills Israel Group chief Saifullah after 326 day anti-terror operation
· Lucknow University mosque closure sparks tension between students and ABVP
· Supreme Court agrees to hear plea for Pasmanda Muslims OBC sub quota
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Mideast
· 4 Syrian security personnel killed in attack in Raqqa
· Israeli minister says army to occupy all Gaza if Hamas does not disarm
· Red Cross transfers 8 Palestinians from Israeli detention to Gaza
· How a Syrian refugee built a global mental health lifeline for displaced communities
· Syrian army chief, SDF delegation discuss integration measures
· US orders nonessential diplomats to leave Lebanon
· Israeli settlers torch West Bank mosque
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Arab World
· Conjoined twins from Pakistan arrive in Saudi Arabia for separation surgery assessment
· GCC secretary general receives EU ambassador to Saudi Arabia
· Syrian foreign minister congratulates Saudi counterpart on Founding Day
· Saudi crown prince hosts Egyptian president for iftar in Jeddah
· Jeddah celebrates tourist guide day in historic Al-Balad
· Digital Umrah guide enhances pilgrim experience
· 5,200 staff trained in wheelchair services at Makkah’s Grand Mosque
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Europe
· Former Batley RAF Association Club set to become mosque under new plans
· Bacon left on mosque during Ramadan prayers
· Community Spirit shines as 250 attend public Iftar
· Men attacked after prayers at mosque in Banbury, Oxfordshire
· Open iftar at King's College 'unites' community
· Hungary vetoes €90 billion EU loan for Ukraine
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North America
· CAIR Condemns Arson Attack on Mosque by Israeli Settlers, U.S. Inaction Over Killing of American Citizen
· Amid mounting Iran tensions, US orders nonessential diplomats and their families to leave Lebanon
· Rep. Fine to Newsmax: No Regret Over Dogs-Muslim Flap
· Redlands interfaith Iftar brings community together for peace, prayer
· FedEx sues for Trump tariff refund
· Is US crime at a historic low?
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Africa
· NJAGI: Why more Kenyans are looking at Halal as a mark of quality this Ramadan
· Group calls on Attorney General to reveal details of Saif al-Islam Gaddafi killing
· US Lawmakers Present Report On Alleged Christian Genocide To Trump, Recommend Solutions
· Tinubu urges unity, inclusive governance at Ramadan Iftar with governors
· Group Defends Kashim Imam, Waziri In Bauchi ADC Leadership Dispute
· One Feared Dead As Armed Herdsmen Invade Benue Community
· Court Adjourns Mamu’s Suit Against AGF Over ‘Terrorist’ Designation
· Ethiopia marks 65th army anniversary amid Tigray tensions
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Southeast Asia
· Malaysia’s AI governance Bill still taking shape, Anwar says law to cover full lifecycle, including data centres
· Indonesia sends 29 Islamic scholars to US short courses
· Sultan Ibrahim receives briefing on federal govt affairs from PM Anwar
· Court dismisses preacher’s appeal to reinstate teaching certification
· Tim Hortons Singapore marks major milestone with official MUIS Halal certification ahead of the festive season
· Investment inflows, foreign worker policy top MITI meeting with PM
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South Asia
· Mujahid: “If a Patient Cannot Cross into Pakistan, How Could TTP Members?”
· Islamic Emirate Rejects Foreign Policy Magazine’s Claims on Chinese Worker Security
· Jamaat slams appointment of BNP-affiliated administrators to 6 city corporations
· UN Rights Council Opens 61st Session, Afghanistan on Agenda
· Minister Jalali Underscores Urgent Need for Comprehensive National Health Strategy
· IEA Summons Pakistani Envoy Over Deadly Airstrikes in Nangarhar, Paktika
· Road to Be Constructed in Balkh Province
Compiled by New Age Islam News Bureau
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Rahul Gandhi meets Kotdwar gym trainer ‘Mohammad’ Deepak, hails his act of ‘courage and unity’
February 23, 2026
Uttarakhand Gym trainer Deepak Kumar, who became an overnight social media sensation for defending a Muslim shopkeeper in Kotdwar, Sunday met Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi in New Delhi.
During their meeting, Rahul praised Deepak for his courage and promised to take his gym membership.
Sharing the images on social media, Rahul said, “This flame of unity and courage should burn in the hearts of every Indian youth.”
Deepak intervened and helped a Muslim shopkeeper who was being harassed by a group of men, who claimed to be the members of the right-wing organisation Bajrang Dal.
The group wanted the shopkeeper to change the name of his shop. The Muslim shopkeeper had used ‘Baba’ in the name of his decades old shop. However, the right-wing miscreants wanted him to remove the ‘Baba’ from the shop’s name.
Deepak Kumar, who was nearby intervened and asked them not to trouble the Muslim man. When they asked his name, he introduced himself as ‘Mohammad Deepak’.
A video of the incident instantly went viral on social media with Deepak being hailed by many as a “hero”. However, the Bajrang Dal members protested against him and allegedly issued threats.
Moreover, an FIR was also reportedly lodged against Deepak and his friend Vijay Rawat, who was also there and defended the gym trainer.
While Deepak became a social media star, he revealed that the incident has adversely affected his business as his gym memberships dropped significantly.
After his meeting with Rahul Gandhi, the Opposition Congress described him as a “warrior of the ‘Shop of Love’.
“Mohammad Deepak has set an example of unity, brotherhood, and courage— one that will inspire every young person in the country to muster the courage to fight against injustice and hatred,” the Congress said.
Source: thestatesman.com
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Iran, US to hold third round of nuclear talks on Thursday
February 23, 2026
Iranians walk past the Emamzadeh Saleh mosque in northern Tehran on February 23, 2026. (AFP)
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TEHRAN: Iran and the US will hold a third round of nuclear talks on Thursday in Geneva, Oman’s Foreign Minister Badr Albusaidi said on Sunday, amid growing concerns about the risk of military conflict between the longtime adversaries.
The US has built up its military presence in the Middle East, with President Donald Trump warning on Thursday that “really bad things will happen” if no deal is reached to solve a longstanding dispute over Tehran’s nuclear program.
“Pleased to confirm US-Iran negotiations are now set for Geneva this Thursday, with a positive push to go the extra mile toward finalizing the deal,” said Oman’s foreign minister, who acts as a mediator in indirect talks between Washington and Tehran.
Reuters reported on Sunday that Iran was offering fresh concessions on its nuclear program in order to reach a deal, as long as it includes the lifting of economic sanctions and recognizes Tehran’s right to “peaceful nuclear enrichment.”
Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian voiced cautious optimism on Sunday in a post on X, saying recent negotiations had “yielded encouraging signals” while pointing to Tehran’s readiness for “any potential scenario.”
Trump’s special envoy Steve Witkoff, who leads nuclear negotiations on the US side, said on Saturday that the US president was curious as to why Iran has not yet “capitulated” and agreed to curb its
nuclear program.
“I don’t want to use the word ‘frustrated,’ because he understands he has plenty of alternatives, but he’s curious as to why they have not ... I don’t want to use the word ‘capitulated,’ but why haven’t they capitulated?” Witkoff said during an interview with Fox News’ “My View with Lara Trump,” hosted by the president’s daughter-in-law.
“Why, under this pressure, with the amount of seapower and naval power over there, why haven’t they come to us and said, ‘We profess we don’t want a weapon, so here’s what we’re prepared to do’? And yet it’s sort of hard to get them to that place.”
Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi reacted in a post on X, saying: “Curious to know why we do not capitulate? Because we are Iranian.”
He also said in an interview with CBS that a diplomatic solution with the US was still within reach.
Indirect talks last year did not bring any agreement, primarily due to friction over a US demand that Iran forgo uranium enrichment on its soil, which Washington views as a pathway to a nuclear bomb. Iran has denied seeking such weapons.
The US joined Israel in hitting Iranian nuclear sites in June, effectively curtailing Iran’s uranium enrichment, with Trump saying its key nuclear sites were “obliterated.”
But Iran is still believed to possess stockpiles enriched previously, which Washington wants it to relinquish.
“They’ve been enriching well beyond the number that you need for civil nuclear. It’s up to 60 percent (fissile purity),” Witkoff said.
“They’re probably a week away from having industrial, industrial-grade bomb-making material, and that’s really dangerous.”
Fresh concessions being considered by Iran include sending half of its highly enriched uranium abroad while diluting the rest.
Washington has also sought to expand the talks beyond the nuclear issue to cover Iran’s missile program and its support for regional armed groups. Iran has publicly rejected this, although sources have said that, unlike the missiles, support for armed groups may not be a red line for Tehran.
Another topic of friction is the scope and mechanism of lifting sanctions on Iran.
A senior Iranian official told Reuters on Sunday that Iran and the US still have differing views.
Witkoff also said he has met at Trump’s direction with Iranian opposition figure Reza Pahlavi, son of the shah ousted in Iran’s 1979 revolution.
Source: arabnews.com
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Saudi Arabia and other countries condemn Israeli decisions over extending control in West Bank
February 23, 2026
Israeli soldier speaks with a Palestinian woman at the Qalandia checkpoint in the occupied West Bank city of Ramallah on February 20, 2026, as she tries to enter Jerusalem on her way to Al-Aqsa Mosque. (AFP)
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RIYADH: Saudi Arabia and several other countries on Monday condemned a series of recent Israeli decisions that introduce sweeping extensions to unlawful Israeli control over the West Bank.
In a statement, the foreign ministers of Saudi Arabia, Palestine, Qatar, Egypt, Jordan, Turkiye, Brazil, France, Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Indonesia, Ireland, Luxembourg, Norway, Portugal, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and the Secretary Generals of the Arab League and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, condemned the changes that “reclassify Palestinian land as so-called Israeli ‘state land,’ accelerating illegal settlement activity, and further entrenching Israeli administration.”
“We are clear that Israel’s illegal settlements, and decisions designed to further them, are a flagrant violation of international law, including previous United Nations Security Council Resolutions and the 2024 Advisory Opinion of the International Court of Justice,” the statement read.
“These latest decisions are part of a clear trajectory that aims to change the reality on the ground and to advance unacceptable de facto annexation. They also undermine the ongoing efforts for peace and stability in the region, including the 20 point plan for Gaza, and threaten any meaningful prospect of regional integration,” it added.
The foreign ministers called on Israel to reverse the decisions immediately, respect its international obligations, and refrain from actions that would result in permanent changes to the legal and administrative status of the occupied Palestinian Territory.
“These decisions follow the unprecedented acceleration of Israel’s settlement policy, with the approval of the E1 project and the publication of its tender. Such actions are a deliberate and direct attack on the viability of the Palestinian State and the implementation of the two-state solution,” the foreign ministers said.
They reiterated their rejection of all measures aimed at altering the demographic composition, character and status of the Palestinian Territory occupied since 1967, including East Jerusalem.
“We oppose any form of annexation,” they said.
They also called on Israel to put an end to settler violence against Palestinians, including by holding those responsible accountable. They described the escalation in the West Bank as “alarming.”
“We reaffirm our commitment to taking concrete steps, in accordance with international law, to counter the expansion of illegal settlements in Palestinian territory and policies and threats of forcible displacement and annexation,” they said.
“In the holy month of Ramadan, we also stress the importance of preserving the historic and legal status quo in Jerusalem and its Holy Sites, recognizing the special role of the historic Hashemite custodianship in this regard. We condemn repeated violations of the status quo in Jerusalem, which constitute a threat to regional stability.
“We reaffirm our unwavering commitment to achieving a just, comprehensive, and lasting peace in the Middle East on the basis of the two-state solution, in line with the Arab Peace Initiative and relevant UN resolutions, based on the 4 June 1967 lines. As reflected in the New York Declaration, the end of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict is imperative for regional peace, stability, and integration. Only by realizing an independent, sovereign and democratic Palestinian State can coexistence among the region’s peoples and states be achieved,” they said.
The ministers called for the immediate release by Israel of withheld tax revenues due to the Palestinian Authority.
Those revenues must be transferred to the Palestinian Authority, according to the Paris Protocol, and they are vital for the provision of basic services for the Palestinian population in Gaza and in the West Bank, they said.
Source: arabnews.com
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'Pure hearted' boy, 18, pictured after horror fatal stabbing outside mosque
Benjamin Lynch
23 Feb 2026
Zeeshan Afzals 'kindness, generosity, and laughter touched everyone who knew him'(Image: Gofundme)
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The devastated friends and family of a teen with a "pure heart" have paid tribute to him following his sudden death from a stabbing outside a mosque.
Zeeshan Afzal, 18, died after suffering stab injuries during an altercation in Smethwick on Friday night. The incident occurred outside Oldbury Jamia Masjid just before 9pm, just as worshippers were leaving following Taraweeh prayers during Ramadan. Relatives of Zeeshan were inside the mosque as the incident unfurled outside, with worshippers put in 'lockdown' as emergency services rushed to the scene.
"To lose him during Ramadan has been an indescribable pain," a family member said in a moving online tribute.
They also said Zeeshan's "kindness, generosity, and laughter touched everyone who knew him".
Two other men aged 19 and 22, were taken to hospital with injuries not believed to be life-threatening during the incident
No arrests have been made, West Midlands Police have said, as a murder investigation continues.
On Sunday, police said detectives are "continuing to review CCTV, and gather information, as we seek to establish why this happened and who was involved".
Officers said that there is "nothing" to suggest that the incident was racially or religiously aggravated "at this stage".
In a statement yesterday, police said: "The 18-year-old was discovered with serious stab injuries following disorder in Oldbury Road at just before 9pm on Friday (20 February). He was sadly confirmed dead a short time later.
"The scene has now closed but our detectives are continuing to review CCTV, and gather information, as we seek to establish why this happened and who was involved.
"We want to hear from witnesses, or anybody who has mobile phone or dashcam footage, which could assist with our investigation."
In the wake of the attack, several bouquets have since been attached to the railings outside the mosque.
Zeeshan's family said in a GoFundMe appeal that they had been "tested" during Ramadan "in the most heartbreaking way".
On the page, which has so far raised just shy of £6,800 at the time of writing, the family wrote: "Our beloved brother was tragically taken from us during this sacred month — a time when the gates of Jannah are open and deeds are multiplied."
The heartbroken relatives added: "To lose him during Ramadan has been an indescribable pain, but we hold onto the promise of Allah’s mercy and the hope that this blessed month is a sign of honour for him.
"The Prophet taught us that when a person passes, their deeds come to an end except for three: ongoing charity (sadaqah jariyah), beneficial knowledge, and a righteous child who prays for them. We are raising funds in his name to serve as sadaqah jariyah — a source of continuous reward for him in his grave and a means of light for him in the hereafter."
His friend Rajab, a student, said he had spent the evening with Zeeshan at prayer, marking the first Friday of Ramadan.
He said he had left the mosque a little before Zeeshan and headed to a friend's house when he got a call to say something had happened outside. He rushed back to see paramedics working to try to save his friend amid a chaotic scene.
"He was a really good man, with a pure heart, he was a very loved person. He had a lot of ambitions - he wanted to start businesses and make a good life for himself but also for his family and friends.
"He was devoted to Allah, and was inspiring. He was saving up to go on his Hajj pilgrimage in two months time," he said.
Zeeshan had also posted a message in memory of his mother, who had passed away when he was young, a short time before he died.
"He was a good lad, pure in heart," Rajab said. "We are all grieving and praying for him."
For anyone who may have information about the incident, police can be contacted via an online portal here, or us on 101 quoting log number 4896 of February 20. They can also ring Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 55511.
Source: mirror.co.uk
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https://www.mirror.co.uk/news/uk-news/pure-hearted-boy-18-pictured-36769839
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'Aggression is aggression': Iran rejects Trump's 'limited strike' remark; says will take decisive action if attacked
Feb 23, 2026
US President Donald Trump
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Iran warned on Monday that any attack by the United States — including a “limited strike,” which President Donald Trump has confirmed he is considering — would amount to an "act of aggression" and prompt a “decisive” response.
Also Read: Donald Trump considering 'limited strike' on Iran to force nuclear deal
“There is no such thing as a limited strike. An act of aggression is an act of aggression. Period. Any state would respond under its inherent right to self-defence — and we would do so decisively,” foreign ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei told reporters in the capital, Tehran.
Speculation about possible US action in Iran has persisted since December last year, when protests initially sparked by record-high inflation and rising food prices escalated into a broader movement against the Iranian regime. Rights groups have accused authorities in the Islamic Republic of killing “thousands of protesters” during a sweeping crackdown.
On February 20, Trump said he was weighing a “limited” strike if Iran failed to reach an agreement with Washington over a range of issues, including Tehran's nuclear programme. “I guess I can say I am considering that,” he told reporters.
The two sides concluded a second round of indirect talks in Switzerland on February 17, mediated by Oman, against the backdrop of a significant US military build-up in the region.
Further negotiations are scheduled for Thursday, according to confirmations from Iran and Oman, though Washington has yet to confirm the new round of talks.
Foreign minister Abbas Araghchi is heading Iran’s delegation, while the United States is represented by envoy Trump's special envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, the president's son-in-law.
In an interview broadcast Sunday on Fox News, Witkoff said Trump was questioning why Iran had not “capitulated” in the face of Washington’s military deployment.
Baqaei, the Iranian foreign ministry spokesperson, dismissed that suggestion, saying Iranians had “never capitulated at any point in our history.”
The United States and Iran were briefly engaged in military exchanges in June last year during 12 days of hostilities between Iran and Israel, a key Washington ally.
Source: indiatimes.com
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5 Killed As Lakurawa Terrorists Ambush Army General’s Convoy In Kebbi
FEB 24, 2026
Troops in the convoy of the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 8 Division and Commander Sector 2 of the Joint Task Force North West Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Major General Bemgha Koughna, successfully repelled an attack on his convoy by terrorists in Kebbi State.
According to a statement on Monday by the Nigerian Army, which was signed by the Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 8 Division, Nigerian Army/Sector 2 Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Lieutenent Colonel Olaniyi Osoba, the terrorists, suspected to be from the Lakurawa group, attacked the General’s convoy near Mayama Hill in Kebbi State.
The statement, however, disclosed that Major General Koughna and his troops responded with overwhelming firepower, neutralizing five terrorists and repelling the ambush.
During the fierce battle which ensued, the troops of the Nigerian Army also recovered a cache of weapons and intelligence materials from the terrorists.
The statement affirmed the commitment of the Nigerian Army to eliminating terrorists and criminals in every location in Nigeria.
The Army statement reads, “The General Officer Commanding (GOC) 8 Division and Commander Sector 2 of the Joint Task Force North West Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Major General Bemgha Koughna in a bold and decisive operation successfully foiled a deadly ambush orchestrated by suspected Lakurawa terrorist Group (LTG) near Mayama Hill in Kebbi State.
“The attack occurred as the GOC’s convoy was en route to visit frontline troops deployed in the state.
“The GOC’s convoy moving through the volatile forested terrain, came under sudden and heavy fire from armed terrorists. Demonstrating exceptional leadership and tactical prowess, Major General Koughna and his troops responded with overwhelming firepower, neutralizing five terrorists and repelling the ambush.
“This operation not only secured the convoy but also disrupted the terrorists’ plans, delivering a strong deterrent message to insurgent groups that have been terrorizing local communities in the general area.
“Following the successful counter-ambush, troops conducted a meticulous sweep of the area, recovering a significant cache of weapons and intelligence materials. The recovered items included one OJC Gun, one PKT Gun, two AK-47 Rifles and four AK-47 Magazines. Others are one Bandolier of PKT Ammunition, Several rounds of 12.7mm Ammunition, A camel bag containing ₦840,000, two Mobile Phones and Five Motorcycles.
“Currently troops remain deployed and vigilant in the general area, maintaining dominance to prevent further attacks.
“The operation underscores the unwavering commitment of 8 Division Nigerian Army to protect civilians and eliminate terrorist threats in the North West region.”
Source: naijanews.com
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https://www.naijanews.com/2026/02/23/5-killed-as-lakurawa-terrorists-ambush-army-generals-convoy-in-kebbi/
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Anwar to foreign envoys: Malaysia’s ‘survival’ hinges on ‘one family’ unity
By Muhammad Yusry
23 Feb 2026
PUTRAJAYA, Feb 23 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim told foreign diplomats this evening that Malaysia’s survival as a multiracial and multireligious nation rests on its ability to embrace one another as a single family.
At the Foreign Affairs Ministry’s breaking-of-fast event at Wisma Putra, Anwar said the country’s stability is rooted in mutual respect across racial and religious lines.
“Our survival depends on our ability and capacity to embrace one another as one great family,” he said, noting that the spirit of accommodation is consistently displayed during major festivals.
He cited Chinese New Year, Pongal and now Ramadan as examples, pointing to a Chinese community event held early to accommodate Muslims observing the fasting month — a gesture he described as extraordinary.
He also said that many non-Muslims at the evening’s iftar chose to join the breaking of fast out of respect, even if they were not fasting.
“Similarly the function that we have tonight, I'm sure that Tok Mat knows many of you don't fast,” he said, referring to Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan.
“I mean the non-Muslims but they pretend to be hungry and they join us for iftar,” he joked, calling it part of Malaysia’s long tradition of mutual respect.
Anwar said he had also attended a Thaipusam celebration prior to the religious rites as a mark of respect for the Hindu community, emphasising that Malaysians should honour other faiths while staying rooted in their own beliefs and values.
He acknowledged the presence of divisive voices but told the diplomats that, on the ground, Malaysians — Malay, Chinese, Indian, Iban and Kadazan — generally live together in harmony.
Preserving that spirit of unity, he added, is essential for Malaysia’s future and its continued stability.
Source: malaymail.com
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https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2026/02/23/anwar-to-foreign-envoys-malaysias-survival-hinges-on-one-family-unity/210153
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Russia Reports Over 20,000 Terrorists in Afghanistan, Warns of Fragile Security
By Fidel Rahmati-
February 24, 2026
Russia’s Foreign Ministry reports 20–23,000 international terrorists in Afghanistan, with foreign fighters comprising over half, leaving the country’s political and military situation fragile.
Afghanistan continues to face complex political and military challenges, with decades of conflict weakening governance and social structures. The international community has repeatedly expressed concern about regional stability.
The rise of extremist groups across South and Central Asia has heightened fears of cross-border terrorism and regional insecurity, making Afghanistan’s fragile stability a global concern.
According to the Russian Foreign Ministry, Afghanistan hosts 20–23,000 fighters from international terrorist groups, over half of whom are foreign nationals. Groups include ISIS-K (3,000 fighters), Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (5,000–7,000), Al-Qaeda (400–1,500), East Turkestan Islamic Movement (300–1,200), Uzbekistan Islamic Movement (150–500), and Jamaat Ansarullah (150–250).
ISIS-K is the only group actively opposing the Taliban, maintaining camps in eastern and northeastern Afghanistan and attempting to expand into Central Asia. However, Russian analysts note these groups lack the capacity to threaten Taliban control or capture difficult terrain.
The report emphasizes that Afghanistan’s political and military situation remains fragile. Preserving stability requires international attention to economic, social, and humanitarian consequences for ordinary citizens.\
While reports claim tens of thousands of terrorists operate in Afghanistan, the Taliban denied such figures, asserting the country remains under their control and largely stable.
Source: khaama.com
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https://www.khaama.com/russia-reports-over-20000-terrorists-in-afghanistan-warns-of-fragile-security/
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India
Student wing members form human chain to shield Muslim students offering namaz outside sealed mosque on Lucknow University campus
Feb 23, 2026
LUCKNOW: Students of Lucknow University affiliated with the Samajwadi Chhatra Sabha (SCS), National Students’ Union of India (NSUI) and the All India Students’ Association (AISA) staged a sit-in protest on the intervening night of Sunday and Monday outside the historic Lal Baradari.
They alleged that the university administration had deliberately sealed the mosque inside Lal Baradari to prevent Muslim students from offering prayers during the holy month of Ramzaan.
Earlier on Sunday, representatives of the three student organisations—all Hindus—formed a human chain to allow students to offer namaz outside Lal Baradari after the mosque gates were found closed.
A video of muslim students offering namaz and student leaders forming a human chain went viral, with students describing the gesture as “Ganga-Jamuni tehzeeb” and a message that the university is not a place for discrimination on the basis of religion, caste, creed or culture.
“LU’s Muslim students have been offering namaz in the centuries-old Lal Baradari, located on the Lucknow University campus, since the university’s inception. Without any prior information to the Muslim students who offer prayers during the holy month of Ramzan, the historic structure was sealed,” said SCS student representative Navneet Kumar.
He said the group believed in “Ganga-Jamuni tehzeeb”, and that was why Hindu students from their organisation stood guard while Muslim students offered namaz. He added that they also ensured that iftar, which could not be held inside Lal Baradari because it was sealed, was organised outside the building with other students as a symbol of communal harmony.
“How would you feel if you visit a place daily for worship and, all of a sudden, one day you find the doors sealed and you are banned from worshipping there forever? This is what the LU administration has done. The doors of the mosque were sealed by welding without any prior information,” said LU student Vishal Singh, national coordinator of NSUI.
He alleged that the university administration lacked the sensitivity to understand the message it was sending by collecting money during Ramzan.
When contacted, an LU spokesperson Prof Mukul Srivastava said, “The historic building is in a severely dilapidated condition and any mishap can occur at any time. The bank and canteen that were operating in the building were shut down, and after a wall recently collapsed, the university administration displayed instructions prohibiting movement inside the building. However, students continued to enter, and it can cost lives.”
The protest began on Sunday soon after fencing work started at Lal Baradari. Heavy police deployment followed after members of NSUI and SCS, calling the fencing “unauthorised”, began the sit-in.
Rajya Sabha member Imran Pratapgarhi also supported the students and wrote on social media: “Children offer namaz in the centuries-old Lal Baradari located in Lucknow University. This is a decades-old tradition of the university. Since last night, students have been protesting there because, without informing the students, the doors of the mosque were sealed by welding.”
He added that the university administration did not have the sensitivity to understand the message it was sending by collecting money during Ramzan. “Last night, I spoke to the protesting students on a video call and gave full support to their demand. The LU administration should immediately open Lal Baradari for the children and should not make the university campus a laboratory of hatred,” he wrote.
Lucknow chronicler the late Yogesh Praveen had told TOI that Lal Baradari was the only red-stone building from the Nawabi era. It was known as Badshah Bagh in the 18th century. The foundation stone was laid by Nawab Ghaziuddin Haider Shah in 1814, and the building was completed by his son Naseeruddin Haider Shah in 1820.
Lal Baradari once housed the teachers’ association office, a bank, a cafeteria and a staff club, all of which were evacuated around a decade ago due to the building’s fragile condition.
Source: indiatimes.com
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https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/lucknow/student-wing-members-form-human-chain-to-shield-muslim-students-offering-namaz-outside-sealed-mosque-on-lucknow-university-campus/articleshowprint/128703805.cms
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Allahabad High Court observes interfaith live-in relationships not prohibited under UP anti-conversion law
24.02.26
The Allahabad High Court on Monday observed that the Uttar Pradesh Prohibition of Unlawful Conversion of Religion Act, 2021 neither prohibits interfaith marriages nor bars such couples from living together in a live-in relationship.
Justice Vivek Kumar Singh said that courts do not see such couples as Hindu and Muslim, rather as two grown-up individuals who out of their own free will and choice are living together peacefully and happily for a considerable time.
Allowing a writ petition filed by one Noori and 11 other connected petitions, Justice Singh granted relief to the couples that they are at liberty to approach the police for redressal of their grievances.
Upon receipt of such application, the police authorities shall examine the matter and age of the petitioners and if they find any substance in the allegations of the petitioners, they will act in accordance with law for protection of life, limb and liberty of the petitioners, the court ordered.
"Right to live with a person of his/her choice, irrespective of religion professed by them, is intrinsic to right to life and personal liberty. Interference in a personal relationship, would constitute a serious encroachment into the right to freedom of choice of the two individuals.
"This court fails to understand that if the law permits two persons even of the same sex to live together peacefully then neither any individual nor a family nor even state can have objection to heterosexual relationship of two major individuals who out of their own free will are living together," it said.
The court further observed, "Therefore, considering Article 14 (right to equality), 15 (prohibition of discrimination on grounds of religion, race, caste, sex or place of birth) and 21 (right to life and personal liberty) of the Constitution of India and Uttar Pradesh Prohibition of Unlawful Conversion of Religion Act, 2021, it cannot be said that live-in relationship of interfaith couple is an offence."
The court was of the view that for attracting the provisions of anti-conversion law, conversion from one religion to another religion is necessary and that conversion should be by practice of misrepresentation, force, undue influence, coercion or allurement or by any fraudulent means or by marriage or by relationship in the nature of marriage.
"Even the interfaith marriage, per se, is not prohibited under the Act, 2021. Provision has also been made under the Act, 2021, and according to which, if a person wishes to change/convert his or her religion, he/she is expected to follow the procedure prescribed under section eight and nine of the Act, 2021. But one cannot be forced to convert his or her religion for the purposes of marriage or for living together in a live-in relationship," it added.
The court was dealing with a batch of 12 petitions, wherein some Muslim women were residing with Hindu men and some Hindu women were living with Muslim men. The couples had approached the court for police protection, alleging that they were facing threats from third parties including their family members.
Passing its judgement, the court said, "The mere fact that the petitioners are living in an interfaith relationship, would not deprive them of their fundamental right as envisaged in the Constitution of India, being citizens of India. No discrimination can be made on the basis of caste, creed, sex or religion."
The court also observed that since the law is equal for all as per Article 14 and 15 of the Constitution, if two persons of same religion can reside together in a live-in relationship, then people having different religion may also live together in a live-in relationship.
"The Articles 14 and 15 of the Constitution of India ensure equal treatment of all individual. It does not discriminate against citizens based on religion, race, caste, sex or place of birth," it said.
Source: telegraphindia.com
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MP man held captive in UP's Pratapgarh escapes after a decade of ‘slavery’; claims that captors forced him to embrace Islam
Feb 24, 2026
PRAYAGRAj: After several failed attempts, a man from the neighbouring Madhya Pradesh who was held captive in UP's Pratapgarh finally escaped, ending a decade of ‘slavery'.Santosh Shukla, 40, claims he was held captive as a house help by a Pratapgarh resident, Badr-ul-Zama, 38, who also got him converted to Islam and renamed him Sher Khan. Zama was arrested on Monday but his associates are on the run.
On Sunday, Shukla managed to flee and reach a police outpost where he told his ordeal to cops.
Shukla, originally from MP's Sagar district, had met Badr-ul-Zama, Kalloo, Naeem, Nizam and their six associates at a dhaba in Chhattisgarh in 2014. The group promised him a better life if he relocated to Pratapgarh. They even promised to arrange a matrimonial alliance for him.
Shukla waited for two more years before he accepted the offer and reached Pratapgarh in 2016. But his dream destination turned into a nightmare as Badr-ul-Zama took him captive and made him do the household work — for the next 10 years!
Shukla claims Badr-ul-Zama and his associates took him to Dawood Nagar mosque and forced him to embrace Islam. The accused also got him a new Aadhaar issued in the name of Sher Khan using forged documents. Shukla told police that he was forced to eat meat and his fake Aadhaar was misused by the accused for their work.
The man made 3-4 attempts to escape but in vain. Finally, on Sunday, he gave a slip to Badr-ul-Zama and reached the police outpost at Derwa in Pratapgarh. "Whenever I tried to escape, they caught me, thrashed me and threatened to kill me," he told police in his complaint.
Pratapgarh SP Deepak Bhukar said based on Shukla's complaint, an FIR was registered with Jethwara police under various sections of BNS, and section 3 and 5(1) of the Uttar Pradesh Prohibition of Unlawful Conversion of Religion Act, 2021, on Monday.
"Badr-ul-Zama has been arrested and efforts are on to nab others. Police are also probing the victim's claims and making efforts to reach out to his family," the SP said.
Source: indiatimes.com
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Where does the law stand on Himanta Biswa Sarma’s video of ‘shooting’ Muslims?
ASHUTOSH VARSHNEY
24 February, 2026
Because of his policies, statements, and social media imagery, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has been attracting a lot of political attention. Let us examine his rise, and possibly his future, from a broader political perspective, aided by theory, comparison, history, and law.
Political ideologies tend to develop new faces; the vanguard can’t lead forever. As ambitious mid-level leaders begin to envision their futures, they consider how they might ascend to the top, especially if they believe the ideology they have embraced will remain in power for a long time. They draw attention by making statements or adopting policies that please the vanguard.
Self-regarding ambition and the desire for upward mobility are, thus, common features of political organisations. The process becomes quite intense when aspirational mid-level leaders realise they were not trained within the ideology’s core institutions. For the BJP, the RSS is the parent organisation. In pursuit of ambition, enterprising “outsiders” can easily become, as it were, more RSS than the RSS itself.
Different from Adityanath
For some time now, Yogi Adityanath, Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, has exemplified this logic. Adityanath did not emerge from the RSS. As a disciple of Mahant Avaidyanath, he was trained as a priest at the Gorakhnath Matth. He founded an organisation called the Hindu Yuva Vahini. His Hindu nationalism began with his math’s involvement in the Ayodhya Movement, not within the RSS. But his passionate advocacy of the Hindu community and his fierce critique of Muslims aligned closely with the ideological thrust of the RSS. In 2017, with the support of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, he became chief minister of India’s most populous state. His policies and statements in office, which have reinforced his Hindu nationalist credentials, have placed him among the most powerful leaders of the BJP despite his lack of roots in the RSS.
At one level, Himanta Biswa Sarma is traversing the same path. At another, his trajectory is even more complex and demanding. Adityanath may not have emerged from the RSS, but he was part of the Hindu Yuva Vahini and was groomed in a Hindu math. In contrast, Sarma spent many years in the Congress party in Assam. When he encountered obstacles to his rise to the highest echelons of power in the state, he switched parties. Adityanath moved from one Hindu organisation to another; Sarma shifted from a party long dependent on Muslim votes in Assam to one opposed to Muslims.
It is not often realised that the proportion of Muslims in Assam’s population has historically been second only to that of Jammu and Kashmir when it was a state. In absolute terms, Uttar Pradesh may have the largest number of Muslims. But as a proportion of the state population, Assam, West Bengal, and Kerala all exceed Uttar Pradesh.
A serious political implication follows. If elections are to be won while simultaneously satisfying the BJP’s ideological vanguard, a fiercely anti-Muslim stance can be viewed as political pragmatism. It is a manifestly clear sign of expediency, not necessarily proof of ideological rectitude. If Muslims constitute approximately a third of Assam’s population, and if few or none are likely to vote for the BJP, Sarma would need about 70 per cent of the Hindu vote, if not more. Under such circumstances, communal polarisation can be seen as an optimal electoral strategy.
Can Sarma be legally punished?
In light of this reasoning, let us consider some of the more recent episodes in Sarma’s politics of polarisation. He has said that he would like to shut down — forcibly, if necessary — as many madarsas as possible, so that Muslim youth do not become mullahs. He has also argued that if Rs 5 is the price of a rickshaw ride, Assamese passengers should pay Rs 4 if the driver is a miyan. He has used the term miyan at times to refer to illegal Bangladesh immigrants; at other times to Bangladeshi immigrants, both legal and illegal; and at still other times to Muslims in Assam, regardless of origin. There is no great principle involved here. Whatever promotes polarisation will be uttered.
The most incendiary episode, watched extensively, was a social media video in which Sarma is seen holding a gun and aiming it at two Muslim men, one of whom is wearing a skullcap. The video was posted on X by Assam BJP and was later taken down.
Aiming at Hindu-Muslim polarisation, Sarma clearly has a political strategy that seeks to maximise the odds of winning. But an important legal question follows: do his statements, verbal or visual, violate the law, thereby exposing him to liability?
For perspective on this question, let us begin comparatively. In the United States, the First Amendment to the Constitution provides exceptionally strong protection for free speech. In 2015, during his first presidential campaign, Donald Trump said that “Mexicans were rapists and criminals.” More recently, an image circulated on his social media account depicting Barack and Michelle Obama as apes. These may have political consequences, negative or positive, but they are generally not legally punishable. The United States draws a distinction between “hate speech” and “hate crimes”. Only the latter are criminally prosecutable, and they are defined by acts of violence, not by speech alone.
In Western Europe, however, the situation is different. Britain’s Public Order Act (1986) makes words or behaviour intended to stir up racial hatred punishable. In France and Germany, too, freedom of expression is not an unqualified right; laws criminalising hate speech on the basis of race, ethnicity, or religion exist.
India’s constitutional framework leans more toward Europe than the United States. Article 19(1) guarantees freedom of speech and expression as a fundamental right, but Article 19(2) permits reasonable restrictions on grounds such as defamation, contempt of court, decency or morality. More important for our purposes here is First Constitutional Amendment, passed a little over a year after the Constitution came into effect, which expanded Article 19(2) to include additional grounds such as “public order” and “incitement to an offence.”
Whatever one may conclude about Sarma’s remarks against Muslims or his suggestion that people pay a miyan rickshaw driver less, the video in which he is seen holding a gun and aiming it at two Muslim men is clearly an “incitement to an offence”, and a potential threat to “public order”.
That is my assessment as a political analyst. Ultimately, however, what counts is the judgment of the courts. Will India’s judiciary see this as a criminal violation of constitutional law?
Ashutosh Varshney is Sol Goldman Professor of International Studies and the Social Sciences and Professor of Political Science at Brown University. Views are personal.
Source: theprint.in
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Captain dies in Kupwara, UP village mosque lowers ‘azan’ volume as mark of respect
Feb 24, 2026
Lucknow: Kushinagar village mourned the demise of its son, Captain Aman Kumar Singh, 25, by lowering the volume of ‘azaan' and urging the community to keep Ramzan celebrations low-profile, on Monday.
Posted in Kupwara district of Kashmir, Captain Aman of 20 Rajputana Rifles collapsed while on duty at a military location on Sunday.
"He was administered first aid by the unit medical officer and subsequently airlifted to 92 Base hospital, Srinagar, where despite medical intervention, he couldn't be revived," said Wing Commander Debartho Dhar, PRO, defence, Prayagraj,
"We lowered the loudspeaker volume after hearing about Aman's demise as we all knew the family. In fact, he was the family," said Zulfikar Khan, the mosque's caretaker.
"Ramzan announcements, usually made four times, were now done only once. The village is proud of its local hero and wishes to mourn over the loss," said Zaheer Hafiz, the mosque's caretaker.
Commissioned in Dec 2023, Aman had visited his native village Bakhrabad ward II of Abdul Hamid Nagar recently after being promoted as Captain in Dec 2025.
His ancestral home is stone throw away from a local mosque in the village.
The Chinar Corps of Northern Command also expressed condolences on the demise of Captain. "Army honors the sacrifice of the captain. We stand in solidarity with the bereaved family," said Chinar Corps.
Aman was the only child of his parents—Jaswant Singh and Vibha. The couple lives in Varanasi, where Jaswant works as an engineer in a private company. Both went to Srinagar to bring the mortal remains of their son.
"Aman was the only one who had joined the defence force. After pursuing engineering, he joined the army via technical entry. He was a bright boy," said Tej Bahadur Singh, relative of the deceased officer.
Source: indiatimes.com
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Delhi HC rejects PIL against 1980 Waqf notification on properties in Jahangirpuri
Feb 23, 2026
New Delhi, The Delhi High Court on Monday dismissed a public interest litigation , which challenged a 1980 Waqf notification and alleged that three mosques in Jahangirpuri area were illegal encroachment on public land.
A bench of Chief Justice D K Upadhyaya and Justice Tejas Karia observed that the PIL by the NGO Save India Foundation was not filed with "bonafide motive or in public interest".
"We are not inclined to entertain the instant petition, which is hereby dismissed along with pending applications," the court ordered.
The petitioner assailed the notification, dated March 24, 1980, issued by the Delhi Waqf Board to publish certain properties as Sunni Waqf properties, specifically Moti Masjid and Jama Masjid in Jahangirpuri as well as another local mosque in the area.
The petitioner alleged that the land on which the three properties exist was duly acquired by the Delhi government in 1977 after paying compensation to its owners, and therefore any construction on that land parcel was nothing but illegal encroachment on public land and they could not have been enlisted as Waqf properties.
The plea claimed that the acquisition was made for planned development of Delhi and the land was handed over to the Delhi Development Authority, which integrated these parcels of land into a formal layout plan for a planned colony which was named as Jahangirpuri.
The court, in its judgment, observed that the petitioner, who was "habitual" of filing the petitions and describing them as public interest litigation, has "unnecessarily attempted to rake up the past" and any notification issued 46 years ago could not be permitted to be challenged on "flimsy grounds".
It emphasised that the "purity of the stream" of PIL should not be permitted to be undermined by any litigant at any cost, and even as per the Supreme Court, it was the duty of the courts to ensure that frivolous petitions or petitions not filed with bonafide intentions are "nipped in bud".
The court noted that as per the petition, the trustee of the petitioner Trust, Preet Singh, was said to have been falsely implicated by the police in fake cases due to political considerations but it did not disclose the details of the criminal cases.
It said that the notification was issued after an inquiry conducted by the 'Commissioner of Waqfs' as per the law and the list of Waqf properties was published only on examination of the report received from the state government, which was based on the inquiry conducted by the commissioner.
It further observed that when an ordinary civil remedy with respect to any listed Waqf property was barred after a stipulated time, entertaining a writ petition, that too after 46 years, would legally be impermissible.
The counsel for the Delhi Waqf Board opposed the maintainability of the petition and argued that challenging the notification after a lapse of about 46 years would not be permissible.
He further said that the list of the Waqf properties was published strictly in accordance with the provisions of the law.
Source: hindustantimes.com
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Congress slams Prime Minister's upcoming visit to Israel, alleging Modi 'abandoning' Palestinians
24.02.26
The Congress on Tuesday alleged that the government has "abandoned" the Palestinians and said Prime Minister Narendra Modi is going to Israel despite that country's attacks on civilians in Gaza continuing "mercilessly".
Congress general secretary in-charge communications Jairam Ramesh said the Modi government makes cynical and hypocritical statements on its commitment to the cause of the Palestinians but in reality it has abandoned them.
Israel's dispossession and displacement of thousands of Palestinians in the occupied West Bank has intensified and drawn worldwide condemnation, Ramesh said on X.
Israel's attacks on civilians in Gaza continue mercilessly, he said.
Ramesh also pointed out that Israel and the US are planning air assaults on Iran.
"Yet the Prime Minister is going to Israel tomorrow (where there is a Modani connection as well) to embrace his good friend Mr. Netanyahu, who faces very serious corruption charges," the Congress leader said.
"The Opposition in Israel is threatening to boycott Mr. Modi's address to the Israeli Parliament to protest how Mr. Netanyahu is destroying the independence of the judiciary in Israel," he said.
The Modi government makes cynical and hypocritical statements on its commitment to the cause of the Palestinians, Ramesh said.
"The reality is the Modi government has abandoned them, forgetting that India was amongst the earliest countries to recognise the state of Palestine way back on Nov 18, 1988," he said.
Modi's visit to Israel has gotten entangled in domestic politics, with the opposition threatening to boycott the Indian leader's parliamentary address unless the Supreme Court chief is invited for it as per protocol.
Modi is expected to arrive in Israel on February 25 for a two-day visit, during which he is likely to address the Knesset and meet Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and President Isaac Herzog.
Source: telegraphindia.com
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Army kills Israel Group chief Saifullah after 326 day anti-terror operation
Muzaffar Raina
24.02.26
At the height of the Gaza invasion in April 2024, seven Pakistani militants, reportedly calling themselves the "Israel Group", infiltrated into the Jammu region, engaging security personnel in at least 17 gunfights and carrying out a series of attacks on civilians and forces.
Much like the prolonged Israeli onslaught on Palestinians, it took the security forces 326 days of relentless operations to finally neutralise them, culminating on Sunday with the killing of the group’s head, Saifullah, and two more militants, during the final assault.
The breakthrough was achieved after enduring setbacks and embarrassments as the militants managed to break cordons. But the unyielding resolve and sustained efforts of hundreds of personnel, working day and night in treacherous terrain and deploying every possible resource from sniffer dogs to surveillance drones, ultimately helped them track down the militants.
A police veteran said the militants were unlikely to have used the Israel moniker out of admiration for the Jewish country but rather to instil fear, invoking the image of Israel’s uncompromising military campaign.
The army on Monday confirmed the death of Saifullah and two other militants of the Jaish module that had infiltrated in April 2024. “Relentless and painstaking high-altitude joint operations were conducted over 326 days in the Kishtwar region. Forces tracked terrorists in challenging conditions of cold, wet and freezing weather across daunting terrain, leading to multiple contacts,” the Jammu-based White Knight Corps said on X.
“Technology in the form of FPV drones, satellite imagery, RPAs/UAVs, communication, etc, was continuously leveraged to assist in operations. The relentless pursuit and resolve of our forces, culminating in the elimination of Saifullah and his associates, proves that nothing can stand against the determination, courage and valour of our men in uniform and Intelligence agencies.”
Jammu zone inspector-general of police Bhim Sen Tuti said the “very hardcore terrorists” who called themselves the “Israel Group” had inflicted “heavy losses on security forces and civilians” over the past two years.
Sources said the militants' victims included the army’s junior commissioned officer, Rakesh Kumar, Havaldar Gajendra Singh and village defence guards Kuldeep Kumar and Nazir Ahmad.
“These Jaish terrorists would call themselves members of the Israel Group. I have said this on the basis of evidence. It had seven members,” Tuti told reporters.
The first member of the group was killed in April 2025, followed by two more in different gunfights in subsequent months. Of the remaining four, one was killed early this month. Tuti said the last three members, including Saifullah, were killed at Chatroo in Kishtwar.
Source: telegraphindia.com
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Lucknow University mosque closure sparks tension between students and ABVP
Piyush Srivastava
24.02.26
The closure of a mosque on the Lucknow University campus brought Muslim students and ABVP members to the brink of a scuffle on Monday.
At the centre of the controversy is the shrine attached to the Lal Baradari, a 200-year-old monument protected by the Archaeological Survey of India.
The Muslim students have accused the university administration of closing the gates of the mosque, where they used to offer namaz, to further their Hindutva agenda. Students affiliated to the ABVP termed it a safety measure undertaken before repairing the dilapidated shrine.
Several Muslim students said the LU authorities were trying to stop a centuries-old tradition in its bid to “saffronise the institution”.
“This followed the visit of RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat to the university on February 18. Bhagwat was felicitated by the university administration and he held a meeting with the ABVP, the student wing of the RSS,” said Mohammad Arman, a student of the university.
“I have been offering namaz in the masjid of Lal Baradari for two years. We also organise Roza Iftar there. We offered namaz there on Sunday afternoon, but found it locked and barricaded by the police when we reached there later in the day. When we informed the vice-chancellor, he said it was done for our safety. If it is indeed so, why didn’t they lock and repair the mosque before Ramzan?”
he said.
He said the university was being run by “Hindutva forces, who are
destroying the secular fabric of India and the country’s culture”.
Source: telegraphindia.com
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Supreme Court agrees to hear plea for Pasmanda Muslims OBC sub quota
24.02.26
The Supreme Court on Monday agreed to examine a plea seeking the inclusion of Pasmanda Muslims as an OBC sub-category for 10 per cent reservation in jobs and education, even as it wondered whether such a demand could be made at the cost of other poor Muslims.
“At the cost of other poor Muslims, you probably want to promote yourself (Pasmanda). Where is the data on how many Muslims are actually from backward classes?” the top court asked senior advocate Anjana Prakash, appearing for PIL petitioner Mohd Waseem Saifi.
According to the petitioner, Pasmanda Muslims constitute the most economically and socially backward sect within the community.
“OBC is not only a social status factor... economic status is also a factor,” the bench headed by Chief Justice Surya Kant said. It sought quantifiable and valid data to support the argument that Pasmanda Muslims deserved reservation benefits and posted the matter for hearing after four weeks.
Prakash suggested that the matter can be tagged with an appeal filed by the Andhra Pradesh government in 2025 challenging a high court order quashing the 4 per cent reservation granted to Muslims by the state government. The matter is pending consideration by a five-judge constitution bench.
Source: telegraphindia.com
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Mideast
4 Syrian security personnel killed in attack in Raqqa
February 23, 2026
LONDON: Syrian authorities have reported that four security personnel died and two were injured during an attack on a government checkpoint in the city of Raqqa — located in the northeast of the country — on Monday.
The Internal Security Forces said that one of the attackers had been neutralized, and that security units were currently conducting a thorough sweep of the surrounding area to identify and eliminate the remaining members of the cell responsible for the attack, according to the Syrian Arab News Agency.
It marks the second violent attack in the region within 48 hours targeting the Internal Security Forces. The same checkpoint was attacked on Sunday, resulting in another operative being neutralized, as reported by SANA.
Raqqa was under Daesh control from 2014 to 2017. It was regarded as the group’s capital.
Government forces of the Syrian Arab Republic regained control of the region in January following a ceasefire and integration agreement with the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces.
Source: arabnews.com
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Israeli minister says army to occupy all Gaza if Hamas does not disarm
February 23, 2026
JERUSALEM: Israeli far-right Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich said Monday that Palestinian Islamist group Hamas may soon be given a deadline to lay down its weapons.
“We estimate that in the coming days, Hamas will be given an ultimatum to disarm and completely demilitarise Gaza,” Smotrich said in an interview with public broadcaster Kansas
“If it does not comply with it, the IDF (Israeli army) will have international legitimacy and American backing to do it itself, and the IDF is already preparing for this and is making plans,” said the minister, who is a member of Israel’s security cabinet charged with approving large-scale military operations.
Under the first phase of a US-sponsored ceasefire in Gaza that halted two years of fighting between Israel and Hamas, the Israeli army withdrew to positions behind a so-called Yellow Line, but still controls over half of the territory.
The second phase that officially began last month plans for a gradual withdrawal of the Israeli army and the disarmament of Hamas, which the militant group has vehemently opposed.
“The (Israeli military) will definitely enter and occupy Gaza if Hamas does not disband,” Smotrich said.
Asked how the military would do this, he said “there are two or three alternatives right now that we are examining.”
The peace plan put forward by US President Donald Trump also calls for the establishment of a 20,000-strong peacekeeping force, called the International Stabilization Force (ISF), to which several countries have committed troops.
Asked how the Israeli army would operate against Hamas when foreign soldiers are deployed on the ground, Smotrich said the latter would “pull out very quickly and allow the (Israeli military) to enter. This is coordinated with the Americans.”
“By the way, I don’t yet see them going in that fast,” he added of the ISF.
Source: arabnews.com
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Red Cross transfers 8 Palestinians from Israeli detention to Gaza
February 23, 2026
LONDON: The International Committee of the Red Cross transferred eight Palestinians from Israeli detention to the Gaza Strip on Monday.
The organization took them across the Karm Abu Salem border crossing to Shuhada Al-Aqsa Hospital in Deir Al-Balah and helped reunite them with their families.
The Red Cross has been unable to visit Palestinian detainees in Israeli detention centers since October 2023, as a result of which the fate and location of many detainees from Gaza were unknown, the Palestinian Wafa news agency reported.
The Red Cross said that according to the principles of international humanitarian law, detainees must be treated humanely, held in proper conditions and allowed to have contact with their families.
Israel is holding about 9,245 Palestinian prisoners in jails, including 358 held without charge or trial under administrative detention, according to Jerusalem-based rights group HaMoked.
Source: arabnews.com
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How a Syrian refugee built a global mental health lifeline for displaced communities
DALAL AWIENAT
February 23, 2026
DUBAI: When Jin Dawod fled the Syrian civil war as a teenager and sought refuge in Turkiye, she carried with her the invisible weight of displacement — fear, uncertainty and isolation.
Years later that experience would shape Peace Therapist, a digital psychological support platform she founded in 2018 to provide accessible mental health care in four languages to refugees.
Dawod told Arab News that while adjusting to life in Turkiye, she realized there was little support available in Arabic for refugees struggling with their mental well-being.
During her second year studying computer engineering, she decided to build a solution: an online therapy platform connecting refugees with psychologists in their mother tongue.
“After the civil war in Syria and my personal experience with it, I found out most of the refugees don’t have space to feel, to express, to talk, or even to ask questions,” she told Arab News.
Since its launch, Dawod said the social enterprise has delivered more than 70,000 sessions across Turkiye, Syria and Europe, helping thousands begin the process of healing.
“I wanted to make a solution that is accessible, anonymous, and in the mother language for the people who are reaching out for help,” she said.
The need is stark. According to the World Health Organization, refugees and migrants exposed to adversity are at greater risk of depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder and psychoses, sometimes leading to suicide.
In some countries, psychoses are more prevalent among migrants, linked to cumulative social disadvantage throughout their journey.
The WHO reports that 22 percent of people who have experienced war or conflict in the previous decade will suffer from depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder or schizophrenia.
Yet refugees and migrants often face barriers that limit both access to and acceptance of mental health services, including discrimination, language gaps and concerns over confidentiality.
Peace Therapist operates through three models. The first provides direct support to individuals, no matter where they are.
“Anyone anywhere can reach out to these therapists from anywhere in the world, if they are speaking the four languages that we are supporting we can give them psychological support and mental health services needed,” Dawod said.
The second model focuses on partnerships with organizations, including UN agencies and nonprofits. After the devastating Syria-Turkiye earthquake in 2023, Dawod shared a helpline on social media for those affected.
Within hours, she said, 200 requests for support poured in from refugees and Turkish nationals traumatized by the 7.8 magnitude quake and its aftershocks.
“We worked with ILO and we supported six survivors in Syria and Turkiye and we later matched them with job opportunities. Also, we worked with UNHCR and with the SPARK organization,” she said.
SPARK, an independent non-governmental organization, partners with UN agencies to help young people, women and refugees in fragile states access education, employment and entrepreneurship.
The third model — and, Dawod insists, the most important — is the social plan, which offers free sessions to refugees and disadvantaged groups.
“Our social plan is the heart of Peace Therapist,” Dawod said. “That is why Peace Therapist was born in the first place. And we don’t want to forget why it was born in the first place — to support refugees.”
Sustaining that free support is also the greatest challenge; the platform is self-funded.
“We don’t have a specific government or organization that is sponsoring Peace Therapist. We are independent and we are self-managing,” Dawod said, calling on the international community to collaborate and expand access to mental health services.
Her work has earned global recognition, including the 2024 UNHCR Nansen Refugee Award for Europe and the Youth Leadership and Innovation Award by the Global Forum on Migration and Development, bringing her to platforms such as the UN and the European Parliament.
“We are so happy to be recognized globally. We have many global awards like the Nansen Refugee Award and the UN Action Award ... we are honored to have these amazing awards,” she said.
But the accolades are secondary.
“We want to always be there in the field and always be touching the people who are reaching out for us. Because the biggest award for us is the feedback that we are having from the people who are reaching out,” she said.
The UN reports that by the end of April 2025, around 122 million people were forcibly displaced worldwide — the highest level on record. UNHCR said that as of 2025, 1.2 million mental health consultations and psychosocial support services had been provided globally.
The WHO stresses that effective mental health care for displaced populations requires culturally sensitive, multidisciplinary approaches that integrate social support, legal assistance and community engagement.
Peace Therapist’s team now includes more than 150 psychologists from diverse cultural backgrounds.
“That is so important, to be able to support the people with the cultural, culturally sensitive services,” said Dawod. “We have psychologists from Lebanon, Iraq, Palestine, Syria, of course, Turkiye and many other Arab countries, and also international experts.”
The platform also uses artificial intelligence to match users with therapists based on their needs and the psychologist’s expertise.
“When we are providing psychological support, it’s really important to match with the right psychologist because it could be also harmful more than it can be useful when you are matched to the wrong person,” Dawod said.
For many refugees, stigma, racism and discrimination further delay seeking help, the WHO notes, worsening mental health outcomes.
“There is already a lot of stigma on mental health, and we don’t want people to lose the encouragement of having and asking for help,” Dawod added.
As displacement reaches record levels, digital platforms like Peace Therapist are increasingly viewed by humanitarian organizations as scalable solutions in conflict and post-conflict settings.
WHO’s Comprehensive Mental Health Action Plan 2013-2030 emphasizes promoting mental wellbeing and addressing disparities in access to care, particularly for refugees and migrants.
For Dawod, however, the mission remains deeply personal.
“Peace Therapist was born because of war, so our mission is always to build peace — inner peace and peace in the world. It all starts from inside of us.”
Source: arabnews.com
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Syrian army chief, SDF delegation discuss integration measures
February 23, 2026
DAMASCUS: Syrian Chief of Staff Maj. Gen. Ali Al-Naasan on Sunday met a delegation from the Syrian Democratic Forces to discuss steps for integrating SDF units into several brigades of the Syrian Arab Army.
The Defense Ministry said that the meeting also addressed military deployment and administrative arrangements.
Syria announced on Jan. 29 a comprehensive agreement with the SDF that includes a ceasefire, a phased integration of forces, and the return of state institutions and border crossings to government control.
The media directorate of the presidency earlier announced that Brig. Gen. Ziad Al-Ayesh has been appointed as a presidential envoy to implement the Jan. 29 agreement.
The directorate said in a statement to SANA that the agreement enhances the state’s presence, removes obstacles and activates government services for citizens.
The deal includes a phased integration of military and administrative bodies, the deployment of security forces into Hasaka and Qamishli, and the state’s administration of civil institutions and border crossings.
The UN Security Council has welcomed the agreement. The council also praised the start of implementation and reaffirmed its commitment to Syria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
In a recent press statement, council members said the agreement must be upheld to ensure civilian protection, unhindered humanitarian access and Syria’s continued recovery.
Meanwhile, US forces were withdrawing from Qasrak base in northeastern Syria, in what appears to be part of a larger drawdown of US forces in the country.
Iraqi and Syrian security officials told The Associated Press that the US military had begun moving its forces and equipment from the Qasrak base in Syria to Iraq’s semi-autonomous Kurdish region.
AP journalists in the city of Qamishli in northeast Syria saw a convoy of dozens of trucks carrying military vehicles and equipment on Monday, with military helicopters circling overhead, moving toward the Iraqi border.
A senior Iraqi security official said evacuation of the base had begun Sunday and that on Monday, US forces and military equipment coming from the base crossed into Iraq’s semi-autonomous northern Kurdish region.
A Syrian security official said about 200 soldiers remained at the base on Monday and that work was underway to dismantle military jamming and air defense systems, and the engineering section at the base.
Earlier this month, CENTCOM and Syria’s Defense Ministry announced that US troops had left another base, Al-Tanf, located in eastern Syria near the border with Jordan.
Meanwhile, Syrian authorities are repairing key infrastructure at Deir Ezzor Civil Airport ahead of flights being resumed.
Syria’s General Authority of Civil Aviation and Air Transport announced on Monday that technical and engineering teams were repairing the runway, essential facilities, and rebuilding the airport’s perimeter fence to meet international safety and security standards.
Source: arabnews.com
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US orders nonessential diplomats to leave Lebanon
February 23, 2026
WASHINGTON: The United States has ordered nonessential diplomats and their family members at the US Embassy in Beirut to leave Lebanon, the State Department said Monday, as tensions over Iran rise with the threat of a potentially imminent military strike.
The department said in an updated travel alert for US citizens in Lebanon that it “ordered the departure of non-emergency US government personnel and family members of government personnel due to the security situation in Beirut.”
The alert, which was formally released several hours after word began to circulate about the move, said US personnel remaining in Lebanon would have their in-country travel restricted.
A department official said earlier that a continuous assessment of the regional security environment determined it was “prudent” to draw down the US Embassy Beirut’s footprint so that only essential personnel remain at their posts.
The official, who spoke on the condition of anonymity before the move was formally announced, said that it is a temporary measure and that the embassy will remain operational.
Lebanon has been the site of numerous Iran-related retaliatory attacks against US facilities, interests and personnel for decades given Tehran’s support for and influence with the Hezbollah militant group, which is held responsible for the deadly bombings of the Marine barracks in Beirut in 1983 and an embassy annex in 1984.
As such, changes in the staffing status of the embassy in Beirut have often been seen as a bellwether for potential US or Israeli military action in the region, particularly against Iran. A similar ordered departure was imposed for Beirut and other embassies in the region, including in Iraq, shortly before President Donald Trump ordered military strikes against Iranian nuclear facilities last June.
It was unclear if other American embassies in the Middle East would implement similar orders.
Tensions have escalated between the US and Iran as Trump has built up the largest military presence in the Middle East in decades and repeatedly threatened action if Tehran does not negotiate a deal to constrain its nuclear program. A second aircraft carrier is heading to the region to join a surge of other American warships and aircraft, offering the Republican president several options for a potential strike even as talks may continue.
Oman’s foreign minister, Badr Al-Busaidi, said the US and Iran plan to hold their next round of nuclear talks Thursday in Geneva. A US official, who was not authorized to comment publicly and spoke on the condition of anonymity, confirmed the meeting.
Iran’s top diplomat, Abbas Araghchi, told CBS on Sunday that he expected to meet US envoy Steve Witkoff then and said a “good chance” remained for a diplomatic solution on the nuclear issue.
Araghchi has said a proposed deal would be ready to share within days, and he told CBS that Iran was still working on it.
Asked Friday whether the US could take limited military action as the countries negotiate, Trump said, “I guess I can say I am considering that.” He also told reporters later that Iran “better negotiate a fair deal.”
Indirect talks between the longtime adversaries in recent weeks have made little visible progress. Beyond the nuclear program, Iran has refused to discuss wider US and Israeli demands that it scale back its missile program and sever ties to armed groups.
A second State Department official, also speaking on the condition of anonymity to discuss plans that had not been formally announced, said Secretary of State Marco Rubio may delay his intended visit to Israel this weekend.
Earlier, India’s foreign ministry urged its citizens Monday to leave Iran also as a preventive measure, AFP reported.
“In view of the evolving situation in Iran, Indian nationals who are currently in Iran... are advised to leave Iran by available means of transport, including commercial flights,” the Indian Embassy in Tehran said in a post on social media.
India’s foreign ministry estimates there are usually around 10,000 citizens in Iran.
Source: arabnews.com
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Israeli settlers torch West Bank mosque
February 23, 2026
TELL, West Bank: Israeli settlers vandalized a mosque in the Israeli-occupied West Bank early Monday, spray-painting offensive phrases and setting a fire, according to the Palestinian Authority’s Ministry of Religious Affairs Ministry.
Worshippers coming for the first prayers of the day found the damage and a still smoldering fire, which spewed black smoke across the entrance of the Abu Bakr Al-Siddiq Mosque in the town of Tell, near Nablus, and stained the ornate doorway.
“I was shocked when I opened the door,” said Munir Ramdan, who lives near the mosque. “The fire had been burning here in the area, the glass was broken here, and the door was broken.”
Security camera footage shows two people walking toward the mosque carrying gasoline and a can of spray paint, and running away a few minutes later, Ramdan said.
The Religious Affairs Ministry said that settlers vandalized or attacked 45 mosques in the West Bank last year. The incident came as Muslims observe the holy month of Ramadan.
“The provocation is directed especially at the person who is fasting, because you are fasting and entering a month of mercy and forgiveness from God,” said Salem Ishtayeh, a resident of Tell. “So they like to provoke you with words — it’s not that they are attacking you personally, they are attacking your religion, the Islamic faith.”
The Israeli military and police said that they responded to the incident and were searching for suspects. The military said that it “strongly condemns” harm done to religious institutions.
Palestinians and rights groups say that Israeli authorities routinely fail to prosecute settlers or hold them accountable for violence.
There has been a recent surge in violence from settlers against Palestinians in the West Bank. Last week, settlers killed a 19-year-old Palestinian-American man, Nasrallah Abu Siyam.
Source: arabnews.com
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Arab World
Conjoined twins from Pakistan arrive in Saudi Arabia for separation surgery assessment
February 23, 2026
RIYADH: Conjoined twins from Pakistan arrived in Saudi Arabia on Monday for an assessment of the possibility of separation surgery.
Sufyan and Yusuf and their parents were taken from King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh to King Abdullah Specialized Children’s Hospital, which operates under the Saudi Ministry of National Guard Health Affairs, where the twins’ condition will be evaluated.
They were flown to Saudi Arabia under directives from King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. The twins’ family expressed their gratitude to the Saudi leadership and people for the warm welcome and prompt response to their case, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
Dr. Abdullah Al-Rabeeah, head of the medical and surgical team at the Saudi Conjoined Twins Program, also thanked the Saudi leadership for the humanitarian initiative.
His team’s expertise in conjoined twin separation surgeries has helped establish the Kingdom as a global leader in the field and a beacon of hope for families seeking treatment, the SPA added.
Source: arabnews.com
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GCC secretary general receives EU ambassador to Saudi Arabia
February 23, 2026
RIYADH: Gulf Cooperation Council Secretary-General Jasem Al-Budaiwi received EU Ambassador to the Kingdom Christophe Farnaud in Riyadh on Monday.
During the meeting, they reviewed existing relations between the GCC and EU, exploring avenues to further develop them to serve mutual interests, the General Secretariat said in a statement.
The latest developments regarding the Joint Action Programme for the 2022–2027 period were also discussed.
Al-Budaiwi will visit the headquarters of the EU in Brussels next week, where he is scheduled to meet with a number of officials.
Source: arabnews.com
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Syrian foreign minister congratulates Saudi counterpart on Founding Day
February 24, 2026
RIYADH: Syria’s foreign minister, Asaad Al-Shaibani, on Monday congratulated his Saudi counterpart, Prince Faisal bin Farhan, on Founding Day, which this year marked the 299th anniversary of the establishment of the First Saudi State.
During their telephone conversation the ministers also discussed the latest developments in Syria and the wider region, along with ways in which they might strengthen bilateral relations, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
Prince Faisal reaffirmed the Kingdom’s support for Syria’s sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity, and highlighted the need for regional stability and security, the Syrian Arab News Agency said.
Founding Day, which was introduced in 2022, is celebrated each year on Feb. 22 and marks the founding of the First Saudi State in 1727.
Source: arabnews.com
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Saudi crown prince hosts Egyptian president for iftar in Jeddah
February 23, 2026
RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman hosted Egypt’s president, Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, for iftar in Jeddah on Monday.
Earlier, the crown prince welcomed the president on arrival at King Abdulaziz International Airport, the Saudi Press Agency reported. Other Saudi and Egyptian officials were also present.
Television news footage showed the crown prince personally driving El-Sisi as they left the airport terminal.
Later in the evening, the crown prince accompanied the president as he departed after his brief trip to the Kingdom, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
Iftar is the meal at sunset with which Muslims end their daily fast during the Islamic holy month of Ramadan, which began in Saudi Arabia on Wednesday.
Source: arabnews.com
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Jeddah celebrates tourist guide day in historic Al-Balad
NADA HAMEED
February 23, 2026
JEDDAH: Jeddah hosted the International Tourist Guide Day event, organized by the Tour Guides Cooperative Society in historic Al-Balad, with 281 male and female guides taking part from across the Kingdom.
The program focused on introducing guides to the historic Hajj route and Jeddah’s heritage landmarks, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Monday.
International Tourist Guide Day, launched in 1990 by the World Federation of Tourist Guide Associations, highlights the role of tourist guides as ambassadors of their countries and cultures.
“Tour guides can influence how tourists perceive history, culture and one another. We act as cultural ambassadors and storytellers,” Abir Abusulayman, a veteran tour guide from Jeddah, told Arab News.
The event also aims to raise awareness of tour guiding’s importance in enriching the visitor experience, promote sustainable tourism, and recognize guides’ efforts in showcasing national identity and heritage.
Mohammed Qari, a tour guide from Jeddah, said: “There was an introduction to the historic district for visitors, and their reaction was amazing and very positive when they saw so many Saudi tour guides gathered together.”
Qari explained the significance of the day: “The main goal of day is to take part in this global gathering and show that Saudi Arabia has professional tour guides with high-level skills — true ambassadors of the nation — who present the Kingdom to tourists through the eyes of its people, their hospitality and generosity. Our aim is to make tourism enjoyable for visitors to Saudi Arabia.”
He added that the celebration reflects the growing importance of professional tour guides in showcasing the Kingdom’s heritage and culture to an international audience.
The celebration coincides with the Kingdom’s rapidly advancing tourism sector, in line with Vision 2030 objectives, the SPA reported.
Tourist guides have become key in presenting historical, cultural and natural sites, conveying their stories with knowledge and professionalism that reflect the depth and diversity of Saudi civilization.
Reflecting on his journey, Qari said: “When the Kingdom opened licensing for tour guides, and encouraged by colleagues, I applied. Since then, I have led many trips across the Kingdom — city tours in major cities and visits to natural, tourist and geological sites, including volcanoes, mountains and other natural areas.”
Qari highlighted that tour guiding is about communication and cultural exchange. “The ‘other’ adds to me as much as I add to them — perhaps even more. Many tourists love to talk about their countries, so I listen and learn, and we compare.
“We share much in common with the world. When tourists see these shared cultural aspects, they are very happy. This brings me great joy, and I also help them engage with our culture in Saudi Arabia.”
Kholoud Abdulwassie, tour guide and board member of the Tour Guides Cooperative Society in Jeddah, said: "Being a tour guide is more than a profession; it is a passion. It is about connecting people to places, turning moments into memories, and serving as a bridge between culture and curiosity.
"Every smile and spark of wonder reminds me why I love sharing the spirit of a place and creating memorable guest experiences."
On Feb. 21, tourist guides worldwide celebrate a day honoring a profession that plays a vital role in fostering cultural understanding, dialogue and responsible travel, according to the federation’s website.
The federation also calls on guides worldwide to celebrate not only their profession, but also their shared duty to foster a more respectful, sustainable and peaceful world.
Source: arabnews.com
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Digital Umrah guide enhances pilgrim experience
February 23, 2026
JEDDAH: The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has released the “Umrah and Ziyarah Guide” in 16 languages to provide pilgrims with guidance and regulatory information in their native languages.
The initiative aims to raise awareness and help pilgrims perform their rituals with ease and peace of mind, the Saudi Press Agency reported recently.
The guide serves as an interactive reference covering all stages of the Umrah and visitation journey — from pre-travel preparations and visa procedures to performing rituals, navigating the Two Holy Mosques, and completing departure formalities.
Organized chronologically, it allows pilgrims to quickly access stage-specific information and is enhanced with visuals and digital links to maps, instructional videos, and supporting services.
Topics include ihram, tawaf, and sa’i, etiquette within the Two Holy Mosques, and key services at the Grand Mosque and the Prophet’s Mosque, along with organizational and behavioral guidelines to ensure smooth operations.
The ministry said the guide’s launch is part of ongoing efforts to enhance the pilgrim experience, strengthen procedural awareness, and support digital transformation, ultimately improving service quality and facilitating the journey. It is available at haj.gov.sa/Guides.
Source: arabnews.com
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5,200 staff trained in wheelchair services at Makkah’s Grand Mosque
February 23, 2026
JEDDAH: The General Authority for the Care of the Affairs of the Grand Mosque and the Prophet’s Mosque has completed the first phase of a program to train Grand Mosque workers in wheelchair assistance during Ramadan.
The Daifi (My Guest) program is part of the authority’s efforts to enhance service quality for worshippers and improve field performance efficiency at the Grand Mosque in Makkah, the Saudi Press Agency reported recently.
It aims to develop modern operational models that improve the worshipper experience, raise safety standards, reduce risks, and support crowd management during peak seasons.
The first phase included 49 training sessions over 12 days — 24 in the morning and 25 in the evening — benefiting 5,200 wheelchair service trainees, the SPA added.
The authority noted that the program focused on communication skills, professionalism, and discipline among wheelchair leaders, organizers, and field supervisors, balancing theory with practical application.
It added that the program represents a qualitative step in developing operational services at the Grand Mosque, reflecting its commitment to the spiritual experience and instilling values of compassion and excellence, as service is simultaneously a mission, an honor, and a responsibility.
Source: arabnews.com
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Europe
Former Batley RAF Association Club set to become mosque under new plans
24 Feb, 2026
Abigail Marlow
A former Royal Air Forces Association (RAFA) Club could soon be transformed into a mosque as a planning application has been submitted to Kirklees Council.
The Batley and Birstall RAFA Club previously occupied Broughton House on Cambridge Street in Batley, and celebrated its 50th anniversary in the premises in 2024 before closing for good last year. It operated as a private members club and was owned by the RAFA - a charity that supports serving and ex-serving RAF personnel and their families.
Now, an application for permission to use the property as a mosque and school has been made to the council by the Al Hashim Academy. The academy already operates from the former technical college, located just a few paces down the road, and wants to expand its classroom accommodation and relocate the existing mosque facility to the site of the former RAFA club.
According to a Planning Statement on behalf of the applicant, the building had “long-standing maintenance issues” and closed its doors at the end of May last year when the RAFA decided not to renew the branch lease as a result. The property had a damaged and leaky roof, and was expected to require over £200,000 worth of works in the long-term, it adds.
The property was later sold off, with no other expressions of interest to give the building a community use made, according to the applicant. There is said to have been interest in the property for residential use as flats or a House of Multiple Occupation, but this did not progress.
As this proposal is for the relocation of an existing place of worship from a neighbouring premises, the applicant's Planning Statement says that the new use should be considered “acceptable in principle”. It continues to say that the proposed use is in line with a policy from the council’s Local Plan for community facilities.
While Broughton House is not Listed, it is located in Batley’s Market Place Conservation Area. The historic property, which predates the nearby Batley baths (1893) and technical school (1893), was originally a Christian Brethren Chapel, accommodating more than 300 seated worshippers. It later became an Independent Methodist Chapel and operated as such until around 1971.
In 1974, the former RAFA Club moved to the premises after outgrowing its previous home on Field Lane. The site comprises a large lounge room, bars and a ballroom and bar on the first floor and previously hosted events. A 46-space public car park is located immediately to the rear.
A target date for a decision to be made by the local authority has been set for April 15.
Source: examinerlive.co.uk
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Bacon left on mosque during Ramadan prayers
Eleanor Storey
24 Feb, 2026
An investigation has been launched by police after bacon was left at a mosque during Ramadan prayers.
The bacon was placed on a glass door at the mosque in Cheltenham Road in the Montpelier area of Bristol, during prayer on Friday.
Police have increased patrols in the area while inquiries continue.
Avon and Somerset Police say the incident, which happened during the first week of Ramadan, is being treated as a hate crime.
Serena Serjeant, of Avon and Somerset Police, said: “This was a deliberate act which has caused significant concern to the community during a period of heightened religious observance and we will not tolerate hate in our communities.
“We promptly attended the scene upon receiving the report and we are continuing to engage with mosque leaders throughout Ramadan following this appalling incident, and we will continue to offer our support and assurance.
“We are treating this as a religiously-aggravated public order offence and we would urge anybody with information on the incident or the identity of the individual concerned to contact us.”
The incident was reported to police at around 2.15pm on Friday.
Avon and Somerset Police has issued an image of a man officers would like to speak to because he may hold information which could assist the investigation.
He has been described as having a bald head and was wearing hi-vis trousers and a dark jacket.
Anyone with information can call 101 quoting reference 5226049136.
Source: independent.co.uk
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Community Spirit shines as 250 attend public Iftar
23 February 2026
Around 250 people from across Gibraltar gathered on Saturday evening for the annual Public Iftar, which was once organised by the Muslim Youth of Gibraltar.
The event was held at the Catholic Community Centre and marks the holy month of Ramadan, a period of fasting, prayer and reflection for Muslims worldwide. At sunset, those attending, from different faiths and backgrounds, came together to break the fast and share a meal.
Muslim Youth Member Youssef El Hana says the Public Iftar is about promoting understanding and strengthening community ties.
Money raised during the evening will go towards families affected by recent flooding in northern Morocco, supporting the Asilah - Salsa Morocco Appeal with food, blankets and other essential supplies.
Source: gbc.gi
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Men attacked after prayers at mosque in Banbury, Oxfordshire
23 FEBRUARY 2026
By Edward Burnett
Two men were attacked after prayers at a mosque in Banbury, Oxfordshire, says police.
The incident occurred at the Banbury Mosque, Merton Street, Banbury at around 2pm on Friday, December 26, 2025.
Thames Valley Police says that two males were assaulted by two other males following the end of prayers at the mosque.
One of the two victims suffered a broken nose in the attack, according to a police update today (Monday, February 23).
The description of one of the suspects is an Asian male with black hair of medium build who is around 5 feet 8 inches tall.
It is said that he was wearing a light grey puffer jacket.
The other suspect is also described as an Asian male with black hair and around 6 feet tall.
This male was wearing a blue top and jeans, say the police.
A statement from Thames Valley Police today (Monday, February 23) said: "We are appealing for information following an assault in Banbury."
Investigating officer, Police Constable Flint, based at Banbury police station, added: “We would like to speak to anyone who witnessed the incident or has CCTV footage to please come forward.
"If you have any information around this incident, please contact the Thames Valley Police enquiry centre on 101 quoting reference 43250654213 or online.
"If you do not want to talk to the police, you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously, on 0800 555 111."
Officials at Banbury Mosque have been approached for comment.
Source: oxfordmail.co.uk
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Open iftar at King's College 'unites' community
24 FEBRUARY 2026
Shariqua Ahmed
More than 350 people gathered at King's College Cambridge for an open iftar, a meal that marks the breaking of a Ramadan fast.
Sunday's event was organised by the Ramadan Tent Project (RTP) and worshippers were joined by people of different faiths, and no faiths.
Organiser Kashif Darr said it aimed to break down barriers and educate people about the practices of Islam.
"It's open to everyone. Breaking bread is one of the oldest traditions to make friends and this is what it is - you are sat on the floor side by side sharing a meal."
Attendees described the iftar as "uniting", adding it brought "a sense of community".
Ramadan, which began on 18 February, sees Muslims fast, refraining from eating or drinking between dawn and sunset.
RTP, a charity that aims to bring people together during the holy month, has been hosting about 20 open iftar meals across the country. The theme for this year's events is hope.
Henning Grosse Ruse-Khan, a fellow and professor of law at King's College, said he had been "excited" about the iftar, adding that it had helped remove divisions between communities.
"I think often these divisions come from not knowing the other."
He said fasting in different ways was something many religious traditions had in common.
Raza Amine, a Cambridge PhD student, said: "The talks have been really inspiring.
"It's really uniting to come together as a Muslim community and also a non-Muslim community, just like a huge crowd, to share and celebrate this occasion."
Maya Dannawi, a student, said: "I was really touched when I saw the adhan [call to prayer] happening here in King's, the same hall [where] we've been coming for dinners.
"It's my first time in the open iftar and this is my first actual like Ramadan experience here. It was really nice."
Will Richardson, from London, said: "It was amazing.
"It's the first time I've seen anything like this and I think it's important to have a look and observe all the cultures," he said.
"I've never seen or heard a call to prayer before so it was my first-time experience and I thought it was really beautiful and quite, I guess, emotional really."
Nagham, a student at St Catharine's College celebrating her first Ramadan outside an Arab country, said: "I really missed having the community and the vibes and, actually, I really missed hearing the call to prayer.
"In Ramadan, it's so important to have the sense of community so that we don't feel like we're doing it in isolation but rather as a group together."
Source: bbc.com
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Hungary vetoes €90 billion EU loan for Ukraine
23 Feb, 2026
Hungary has blocked the EU’s proposed €90 billion ($106 billion) emergency loan for Ukraine, as well as the latest package of sanctions on Russia, citing Kiev’s allegedly deliberate disruption of oil supplies to the country.
Hungary placed the double veto on the initiatives on Monday as Kiev and Budapest remain locked in a bitter row over the Soviet-era Druzhba oil pipeline – which carries Russian crude to Hungary and Slovakia and has been out of commission since late January. Kiev claims that it was damaged by Russia, which has denied the allegations.
Budapest has echoed Moscow’s stance, accusing Kiev of deliberately withholding supplies for political reasons and subjecting the country to an “oil blockade,” and threatening retaliation.
“Ukrainians cannot blackmail us; they cannot jeopardize the security of Hungary’s energy supply by colluding with Brussels and the Hungarian opposition. No, a clear no,” Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto said after a meeting of the bloc’s top diplomats to discuss the loan and sanctions package.
EU foreign affairs chief Kaja Kallas said the bloc’s leadership expected the measures to be approved at the meeting, adding that it was a major setback and a “message we did not want to send today.”
The €90 billion loan was agreed to in December, when Hungary, Slovakia, and the Czech Republic secured an opt-out scheme, allowing them to not contribute to the scheme financially.
Hungary, as well as the other nation affected by the oil supply disruption, Slovakia, has threatened retaliation over the Druzhba issue, demanding that Kiev resume its operations immediately.
Last week, both countries announced that they would suspend diesel exports to Ukraine until the pipeline becomes operational again. This weekend, Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico also threatened to stop providing Ukraine with emergency electricity supply unless Kiev restores oil deliveries within two days.
Fico said on Monday that he will keep his promise, raising the issue with the nation’s electricity provider. In January alone, Kiev received more emergency electricity from Slovakia than throughout 2025 to stabilize its energy grid amid Russian long-range strikes, he noted.
Source: rt.com
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://www.rt.com/news/632935-hungary-ukraine-loan-veto/
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North America
CAIR Condemns Arson Attack on Mosque by Israeli Settlers, U.S. Inaction Over Killing of American Citizen
February 23, 2026
The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today condemned an arson attack on a mosque in the occupied West Bank by Israeli settlers and U.S. inaction in respond to the murder of an American citizen from Philadelphia by other settlers days ago.
Israeli settlers vandalized a mosque in the occupied West Bank town of Tell early Monday, spray-painting offensive phrases and setting a fire, according to the Palestinian Authority’s Ministry of Religious Affairs.
“The Israeli settlers backed by Israel who set another mosque on fire in the Occupied West Bank days after other settlers murdered an American citizen from Philadelphia are committing these crimes because of the support the U.S. continues to provide to Israel,” said CAIR. “The Trump administration must break its silence and stop enabling the Israeli government’s crimes, including crimes against Americans and houses of worship.”
Source: cair.com
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https://www.cair.com/press_releases/cair-condemns-arson-attack-on-mosque-by-israeli-settlers-u-s-inaction-over-killing-of-american-citizen/
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Amid mounting Iran tensions, US orders nonessential diplomats and their families to leave Lebanon
Feb 23, 2026
The United States has ordered the departure of nonessential diplomatic staff and family members from Lebanon, citing rising regional tensions linked to military strikes threat in Iran, according to a State Department official, quoted by Associated Press.
The official said the decision followed an ongoing review of the security situation and was taken as a precautionary step. The drawdown will reduce the US Embassy’s presence to essential personnel only, while keeping operations running.
Speaking on condition of anonymity to AP, as there's no formal announcement, the official described the move as temporary and emphasised that the embassy remained operational on Monday.
A second State Department official, also speaking anonymly to discuss plans that had not been formally announced, said that Secretary of State Marco Rubio may postpone his planned visit to Israel this weekend.
This comes as thousands of people across Iran reportedly received anonymous text messages on Monday warning of potential US action, according to Iran International, which cited Iranian state media.
The messages surfaced against the backdrop of escalating tensions between Tehran and US President Donald Trump. Recent weeks have seen sharper rhetoric from Washington alongside an increased deployment of American military assets in the Middle East, raising speculation about possible military measures. In a post on X, Iran International said, "Iranian state media reported that an anonymous text message was sent to people across the country on Monday saying: 'The US president is a man of action. Wait and see.'"
Trump has reportedly weighed the possibility of a limited military strike against Iran, even as another round of negotiations between the two sides is set to take place in Geneva on Thursday.
According to reports by Reuters and The Wall Street Journal, potential military responses under discussion could vary from narrowly focused actions targeting key regime figures to a wider campaign if Tehran rejects Washington's demands.
Source: indiatimes.com
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https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/us/amid-mounting-iran-tensions-us-orders-nonessential-diplomats-and-their-families-to-leave-lebanon/articleshowprint/128718257.cms
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Rep. Fine to Newsmax: No Regret Over Dogs-Muslim Flap
23 February 2026
Rep. Randy Fine, R-Fla., told Newsmax on Monday he will not back down from a social media post that ignited controversy after he declared that if Americans were forced to choose between dogs and Muslims, "the choice ... is not a difficult one."
Fine told "Finnerty" he doesn't plan to resign.
"And you know what? They're going to have to get used to it," he said.
The uproar followed comments by Nerdeen Kiswani, a Palestinian Muslim activist in New York, who wrote on Feb. 12 in a post on X that dung-filled snowdrifts in the city proved dogs should not be indoor pets because "[l]ike we've said all along, they are unclean."
Fine responded on Feb. 15 in a post on X: "If they force us to choose, the choice between dogs and Muslims is not a difficult one."
Asked whether he regretted his post, Fine said, "Not at all."
"I actually think it's great because what it has done is it has made people realize what we are up against," he said.
"Those who are trying to bring Sharia to America want us to submit to their faith. It's OK not to like dogs. It's weird, but it's OK," Fine continued.
"It's not OK to tell me I can't have a dog because you don't like them," he said.
"When a Republican congressman says, 'This is America; we get to keep our dogs; and if you don't like it, you can go home,' they lose their minds," Fine said.
During the interview, Fine also criticized public calls to prayer during Ramadan in parts of New York City, describing them as "a form of submission" and "a form of intimidation."
"That call to prayer says there is no God but Allah. Christians believe in Jesus, but they don't demand that everyone else submit," he said.
"Jews, of which I am one, believe certain things, but we don't force everyone else to submit. But this version of Islam demands that everyone submit to it," Fine continued.
"It will start with our puppies. It will start with these street prayers. It will not end there."
Host Rob Finnerty noted that a social media user had replaced the word "Muslim" in Fine's post with "Jews" and asked Fine if he understood why some found it offensive.
"Here's the difference: Jews aren't telling people that they can't have dogs," he said.
"We may not eat pork and we may not eat shellfish, but we're not telling the supermarket that they can't sell them. That's the difference here," Fine said.
"And my post was very simple. If you're going to make me choose between having my dog or making a group of people who've immigrated to this country happy by taking my dog away, I choose my dog," he said.
"And I've got news for you: 99% of Americans feel exactly the same way."
Fine has since introduced legislation titled the Protecting Puppies From Sharia Act, which would bar federal funds from going to any state or local government that prohibits residents from owning dogs.
The bill states that "Sharia law is a foreign concept that is against the pursuit of happiness" and declares it "a right of all Americans to own a dog."
"We've got 12 co-sponsors already. Puppies are as American as apple pie and motherhood," Fine said.
"And so this is a good bill, and we ought to let Democrats vote against it and say they're fine with Sharia coming to America," he said.
"Let's have that vote. Let's have it on the House floor."
Source: newsmax.com
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://www.newsmax.com/newsmax-tv/randy-fine-dogs-muslims/2026/02/23/id/1247173/
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Redlands interfaith Iftar brings community together for peace, prayer
February 23, 2026
At an annual interfaith dinner in Redlands, community members came together in reverent hope.
An iftar — the evening meal at sunset to break the daily fast — was hosted at the Islamic Community Center of Redlands during the Islamic holy month of Ramadan, which ends in mid-March this year.
During the month-long Ramadan — which began this year on the evening of Feb. 17 — Muslim community members participate in daily fasting from sunup to sundown, studying the Quran, doing charitable acts and prayer and communal gatherings, among other religious traditions.
Sunday night’s program included recitations from the Qur’an, presentations, and a communal Mediterranean-Persian meal and evening prayers that was open to everyone.
Community leaders, including Redlands Mayor Mario Saucedo, Police Chief Rachel Tolber, University of Redlands President Krista Newkirk, and state Sen. Rosilicie Ochoa-Bogh, R-Redlands, were set to attend along with community members from the Redlands Peace Academy, local and interfaith groups.
“I feel that we don’t get time to see each other as human beings, as people,” said organizer Shaheen Zakaria, a member of the Redlands Area Interfaith Council and board member of the Redlands Peace Academy, before Sunday’s gathering. “We all have our views; they’re just different. But if we spend time together, we can come together in peace, understand where the other person is coming from — instead of one group being right or wrong.”
The mosque will hold weekly Ramadan community iftars on Friday and Saturday evenings after prayer.
Source: pressenterprise.com
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https://www.pressenterprise.com/2026/02/23/redlands-interfaith-iftar-brings-community-together-for-peace-prayer/
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FedEx sues for Trump tariff refund
February 24, 2026
Rachel Clun
The global transportation and postal company FedEx has filed a lawsuit for a "full refund" for US President Donald Trump's emergency tariffs.
Trump introduced higher tariffs on most countries last April under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA), but in a ruling last week the US Supreme Court said that law did not allow the president to impose the taxes on imports.
The decision has paved the way for companies to seek a refund on the additional import duties paid since they were introduced last year.
"Plaintiffs seek for themselves a full refund from Defendants of all IEEPA duties Plaintiffs have paid to the United States," FedEx said in its lawsuit.
FedEx did not say in its suit what value of a refund it was seeking. It named US Customs and Border Protection (CBP), the agency's commissioner Rodney Scott, and the US as defendants.
The company said in its filing with the US Court of International Trade it had been responsible for paying the tariffs, and was seeking redress for that.
In a statement on Monday evening, FedEx said it "has taken necessary action to protect the company's rights as an importer of record to seek duty refunds" from CBP following the Supreme Court's ruling.
The BBC has approached the CBP for comment.
On Monday, 22 US Senators, all Democrats, introduced legislation that requires the Trump administration to fully refund all revenue, with interest, collected from tariffs within 180 days.
The legislation requires CBP, who would oversee the reimbursements, to prioritise small businesses.
It's estimated the Trump administration has brought in at least an additional $130bn (£97bn) from tariffs imposed on most goods exported to the US through the IEEPA.
While the court's ruling determined that Trump's IEEPA tariffs were not legal, it did not offer guidance on returning the money to those who had paid the taxes.
Speaking after the decision was released, both Trump and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said the issue of refunds could drag through the courts for years.
In recent weeks, prior to the decision release on Friday, hundreds of firms, including cosmetics company Revlon, aluminium giant Alcoa and food importers like tuna fish brand Bumble Bee, filed lawsuits contesting the tariffs, in a bid to get in line for a refund.
Costco was also among the companies that pre-emptively sued the Trump administration last year: "The text of IEEPA does not use the word 'tariff' or any term of equivalent meaning," they wrote in their lawsuit.
On Friday, Trump signed a proclamation using an alternative law, Section 122 of 1974's Trade Act, that places a new 10% temporary tariff on goods from all countries. On Saturday he said that he would be increasing these new tariffs to 15%.
Source: bbc.com
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cly83r1njjro
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Is US crime at a historic low?
February 24, 2026
President Donald Trump has claimed that crime and murder in the US are at the lowest level for 125 years, with the White House attributing this to his "unwavering commitment to restoring law and order".
Homicides are projected to reach a 125-year low - according to one study - but the same cannot be said about violent crime in the US, although it has fallen to the lowest point in decades.
BBC Verify has reviewed US crime statistics and spoken to crime experts to assess what is driving the fall.
Has US crime fallen to a record low?
In the Oval Office earlier this month, Trump said: "the crime rate now is the lowest it's been since 1900, that's 125 years".
The FBI is the main source of crime statistics in the US. It does not measure overall crime but it does count the number of violent offences reported to police.
These include homicide - which covers murder and non-negligent manslaughter - rape, robbery and aggravated assault.
In 2024, the rate was 348.6 per 100,000 people - the lowest since 1969, according to analysis of FBI data by US crime expert Jeff Asher.
His analysis uses an older definition of rape (which was revised by the FBI in 2013) to allow for a more accurate comparison of crime rates from earlier decades.
The FBI has not published violent crime data for the whole of 2025 yet but its latest release shows the total number of violent crimes fell about 10% in the year to October 2025, following similar trends in 2023 and 2024.
"The US will likely have the lowest property crime rate ever recorded and lowest violent crime rate since roughly 1968 in 2025", Asher predicts.
FBI data alone cannot prove or disprove the claim that crime is at a 125-year low because, as he points out, it only started publishing statistics in 1930, and only consistently after 1960.
Have murders fallen to a record low?
The president also told reporters that figures in January showed the US had "the lowest numbers of murders in the history of our country that we have, recorded history, it goes back 125 years".
When we asked the White House for the source of his claims about murder and crime it sent us a news article by Axios, which cited a study by the Council on Criminal Justice (CCJ) think tank.
The study says "there is a strong possibility that homicides in 2025 will drop to about 4.0 per 100,000 residents", adding this would be "the lowest rate ever recorded in law enforcement or public health data going back to 1900".
As FBI figures were only consistently published from 1960, it used public health data (primarily death registration records) to build a picture of longer-term trends for homicides.
But there is still uncertainty about this forecast as the FBI is yet to publish nationwide homicide numbers for 2025.
"If the FBI were to substantially revise down the 2024 homicide rate and/or if the official 2025 homicide rate ultimately comes in higher than our current estimate, 2025 may not be the lowest ever recorded - but it would still rank among the lowest homicide rates observed in the US since 1900," one of the study's authors, Ernesto Lopez, told the BBC.
A survey of 67 large US police departments by the Major Cities Chiefs Association showed a preliminary 19% drop in reported homicides between January and September last year, compared with the same period in 2024.
Why is crime falling?
In a recent press release, the White House said falling violent crime is the "direct result" of Trump's polices, including "surging federal resources to Democrat-run cities that had devolved into war zones, removing savage criminal illegals from our streets, supporting police and prosecutors".
However, several crime experts we interviewed pointed to a post-pandemic drop in violent crime following the spike observed around 2020.
In other words, a trend that started before Trump returned for his second term in January 2025.
Alex Piquero, a professor of criminology at the University of Miami, said a renewed focus on crime prevention policies could be responsible for the decline, including "policing focused on violent places and violent people" as well as "programs focused on social skills, self-control, and cognitive behavioural therapy".
"A lot of these strategies were basically 'turned-off' during the pandemic and the few years after, and have slowly come back," he added.
The CCJ's president, Adam Gelb, said that "while the downward trajectory of crime is clear, it's extremely difficult to disentangle and pinpoint what's actually driving the drop".
One possible factor he identified is changes to society following Covid.
"As schools, workplaces, social programs, churches and civic institutions regained their footing after pandemic disruption, emotional and economic stresses eased and daily routines strengthened," Gelb added.
He also pointed to people drinking less alcohol "which should mean fewer bar fights and domestic assaults".
And other countries have seen similar falls.
In the year to September 2025, police in England and Wales recorded the lowest number of homicides since comparable records began in 2003.
"Most other Western countries have indeed seen similar declines [in violent crime] that the US has seen, but bear in mind that these countries, in general, have lower crime rates than the US does," said Prof Piquero.
Source: bbc.com
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https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c75e4l4796vo
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Africa
NJAGI: Why more Kenyans are looking at Halal as a mark of quality this Ramadan
23 February 2026
Ramadan has begun.
For the Muslim community, it is a sacred month marked by fasting, prayer and reflection.
From sunrise to sunset, families abstain from food and drink, coming together each evening to break the fast with intention and gratitude.
What is eaten during this time matters deeply, not just that food is available, but that it is clean, honest and prepared the right way.
It is within this spirit that Halal takes on even greater meaning. Across Kenya today, Halal certification is increasingly being viewed not only as a religious requirement, but also as a sign of quality.
More consumers, Muslim and non-Muslim alike, are paying attention to the Halal mark as an assurance of cleanliness, care and responsibility in how food is produced.
There is a common belief that Halal certification applies only at the point of slaughter. In reality, it covers the entire journey of food.
Certification bodies such as the Supreme Council of Kenya Muslims (SUPKEM) set clear standards that guide how animals are cared for, how food is handled, how facilities are cleaned, and how products are stored and transported.
From rearing birds and sourcing feed to processing, packaging and distribution, every step must follow clear rules. Facilities must be clean. Equipment must be well-maintained.
Records must be kept. Inspections must be passed. In simple terms, Halal certification functions as a structured quality system, ensuring food is handled carefully, checked regularly and produced in an organised way. Nothing is left to chance.
This matters even more during Ramadan. Food consumption increases, particularly at Iftar, when families gather to share meals after sunset. With higher demand comes greater responsibility.
For a mother preparing Iftar, assurance matters. For a business serving hundreds of customers at sunset, consistency matters. Halal certification helps ensure that standards remain steady, no matter the season.
One of the strongest elements of Halal certification is its focus on hygiene. Clean processing areas, sterilised equipment, proper product separation and strict cold chain management are all required. Regular inspections, including oversight from recognised religious authorities, reinforce accountability.
For many Kenyan consumers today, the Halal mark has quietly become a sign of reassurance. It suggests food that has been handled with discipline, prepared in clean conditions and monitored through clear systems. This perception has grown over time, built on consistent practices rather than promises.
Ramadan also brings trust into sharper focus. Families want confidence that the food they serve is safe and responsibly produced. Certified producers are required to maintain traceability records, follow documented procedures and allow routine inspections, creating transparency from farm to table.
As Ramadan continues, Halal certification stands as a reminder that quality is not occasional. It is a continuous commitment. Because when food brings people together in faith and family, trust is not optional.
Source: the-star.co.ke
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://www.the-star.co.ke/opinion/star-blogs/2026-02-23-njagi-why-more-kenyans-are-looking-at-halal-as-a-mark-of-quality-this-ramadan
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Group calls on Attorney General to reveal details of Saif al-Islam Gaddafi killing
BY LIBYAN EXPRESS
FEB 24, 2026
The National Gathering for All Libya has formally rejected a statement circulated in the name of supporters of the former regime, describing it as invalid in both form and substance and insisting it does not represent the group “in any capacity”.
In a public statement, the movement said the designation used in the disputed text amounted to “impersonation of a non-existent capacity”, accusing its authors of misleading public opinion in the aftermath of remarks delivered by Prime Minister Abdul Hamid Dbeibah.
The Gathering stressed that those who issued the contested statement — or any other entity — have no right to speak on behalf of former regime supporters at large. It argued that any political position must be expressed strictly within the framework of recognised bodies or organisations to which individuals formally belong.
Call for investigation into Saif al-Islam Gaddafi killing
The group also renewed calls for clarity over the killing of Saif al‑Islam Gaddafi, urging the Attorney General to “exert every possible effort” to uncover the full circumstances surrounding what it described as a “heinous crime” and to bring those responsible to justice in accordance with Libyan law.
In its statement, the Gathering described Saif al-Islam as representing “a broad segment of Libyans across different orientations and affiliations”, citing what it characterised as his national symbolism and his proposed political vision for a unified Libya. It referred to the large crowds that attended his funeral, describing the turnout as a powerful public expression of support at a time when he was considered among potential presidential contenders.
Warning against political exploitation
The National Gathering for All Libya said it remains committed to pursuing what it called the “national project” associated with Saif al-Islam, aimed at building “a single, modern and unified Libyan state”.
It urged Libyans to demonstrate awareness, responsibility and cohesion, and to uphold what it termed shared national principles and identity. The statement concluded with a warning to any parties seeking to “play on the narrative of former regime supporters” for narrow political gain, cautioning that such actions risk undermining national efforts at a sensitive juncture for the country.
The Attorney General’s Office has not yet publicly responded to the group’s appeal.
Source: libyanexpress.com
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://www.libyanexpress.com/group-calls-on-attorney-general-to-reveal-details-of-saif-al-islam-gaddafi-killing/
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US Lawmakers Present Report On Alleged Christian Genocide To Trump, Recommend Solutions
FEB 24, 2026
By Justina Otio
The United States House Committees on Appropriations and Foreign Affairs have submitted a report detailing their findings and recommendations on the alleged persecution of Christians in Nigeria.
Naija News reports that US Congressman Riley Moore confirmed the development on his 𝕏 account.
Trump had mandated Moore and Appropriations Committee Chairman Tom Cole to lead a comprehensive investigation into the alleged persecution of Christian communities by terrorists and the security challenges plaguing Nigeria.
Moore had earlier led a delegation on a fact-finding mission to Nigeria, visiting Internally Displaced Persons camps in Benue, speaking with victims of terrorism, and meeting government officials led by the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu.
Speaking on his findings, the lawmaker stated that the US now has a clear picture of the threats in Nigeria and the alleged persecution Christians face.
The report details steps to impose accountability measures, counter radical Islamic terrorism, and outlines a plan to coordinate with the Nigerian government to ensure security for all Nigerians.
He said, “Today, Congressman Riley M. Moore joined members of the House Committees on Appropriations and Foreign Affairs at the White House to formally present the comprehensive report outlining concrete actions to end the persecution of Christians in Nigeria and counter growing extremist violence in the region.
“This report is the result of months of investigation, including a bipartisan congressional fact-finding trip to Nigeria, hearings with expert witnesses, consultations with religious leaders, meetings with Internally Displaced Persons, and engagement with senior Nigerian government officials.”
The report details recommendations, including establishing a bilateral US–Nigeria security agreement to protect vulnerable Christian communities and dismantle jihadist networks; withholding certain US funds pending demonstrable action by the Nigerian government to stop violence against Christians.
It also contains implementing sanctions and visa restrictions against individuals and groups responsible for or complicit in religious persecution; providing technical support to the Nigerian government to curb violence by armed Fulani militias; demanding the repeal of Sharia and blasphemy laws; and working with international partners, including France, Hungary and the United Kingdom.
Moore added, “Following today’s productive meeting at the White House, I want to thank President Trump for redesignating Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern and for his administration’s commitment to protecting our brothers and sisters in Christ from persecution and addressing the broader security challenges plaguing Nigeria.
“Since President Trump redesignated Nigeria as a CPC and tasked me to lead a congressional investigation, I have worked diligently with my colleagues to produce the report we presented today. I also want to thank House Appropriations Committee Chairman Tom Cole, Vice Chair Mario Diaz-Balart, Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Brian Mast and Congressman Chris Smith for their leadership on this comprehensive investigation and for delivering this report to the White House.
“I travelled on a bipartisan delegation to Nigeria and saw with my own eyes the horrific atrocities Christians face and the instability the Nigerian government must combat.”
Source: naijanews.com
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://www.naijanews.com/2026/02/24/us-lawmakers-present-report-on-alleged-christian-genocide-to-trump-recommend-solutions/
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Tinubu urges unity, inclusive governance at Ramadan Iftar with governors
FEBRUARY 23, 2026
President Bola Tinubu, on Monday, hosted state governors to a Ramadan Iftar at the State House, Abuja, stressing the need for unity and inclusive governance.
The annual event brought together governors, deputy governors and senior government officials to break the fast.
Vice-President Kashim Shettima, chief of staff to the president, Femi Gbajabiamila, and cabinet members also attended.
Addressing the gathering, Mr Tinubu thanked God for sparing their lives to witness another Ramadan.
“It is a joy and a great honour to be with you again this year,” he said.
The president stated that the Ramadan fast coincided with the Christian fasting period.
“You know what it means, discipline, sacrifice, faith, resilience and love for one another,” he said.
Mr Tinubu urged the governors to embrace unity, tolerance and inclusive leadership.
“In this period of unity, harmony and sacrifice, let the young ones breathe too,” he advised.
He commended the governors for progress recorded in their states.
“I’ve seen a lot of progress being made in the states. I can’t commend you enough,” the president said.
Mr Tinubu assured them that the country was overcoming economic challenges.
“We are out of the dark tunnel of uncertainty. The best is yet to come for Nigeria,” he said.
He reiterated his commitment to strengthening security and promoting development across the grassroots.
The president urged leaders to embrace the downtrodden and spread opportunities widely.
Speaking with journalists, Governor Hope Uzodinma of Imo, described the Iftar as an interfaith gathering.
“It is once in about 33 years that Christian and Muslim fasting coincide. It teaches unity,” he said.
Mr Uzodinma said the governors were working with the president in good faith for national development.
The Iftar forms part of Mr Tinubu’s annual Ramadan tradition of hosting political leaders during the Holy month.
Source: gazettengr.com
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https://gazettengr.com/tinubu-urges-unity-inclusive-governance-at-ramadan-iftar-with-governors/
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Group Defends Kashim Imam, Waziri In Bauchi ADC Leadership Dispute
FEBRUARY 24, 2026
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) National Youth Ambassadors Initiative (ANYA) has risen in defence of two prominent party leaders amid the festering leadership crisis rocking the party’s Bauchi State chapter, declaring that their interventions were driven solely by a quest for peace and constitutional order.
Addressing journalists at the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Secretariat in Bauchi on Monday, the Northeast Coordinator of ANYA, Barrister Bala Pali, speaking on behalf of National Convener Hon. Ahmad Shehu Hassan (Na-Allah), dismissed allegations of interference levelled against party heavyweights, including Kashim Imam and Adamu Maina Waziri.
Pali said the duo stepped into the fray strictly in the interest of reconciliation and institutional stability, following controversies surrounding the alleged removal of Local Government Chairmen across the 20 local government areas of Bauchi State.
According to him, Imam and Waziri, as members of the party’s national leadership structure representing the Northeast, possess the constitutional mandate to wade into disputes affecting the region.
“Our leaders acted within their rights and responsibilities to ensure that due process is followed. Their intervention was not an imposition but a move to safeguard unity and strengthen internal democracy,” Pali stated.
The youth body maintained that, based on directives reportedly issued by the party’s national leadership, the existing local government leadership structure in Bauchi should remain in place pending the conclusion of proper constitutional procedures.
ANYA warned against what it described as deliberate attempts to misrepresent the roles of respected stakeholders, cautioning that such narratives risk deepening divisions within the party at a critical time.
Observers say the Bauchi chapter crisis, if not carefully managed, could test the cohesion of the ADC in the Northeast, a region considered strategic to the party’s growth plans.
In a related development, the ADC youth wing expressed condolences to families affected by the recent bandit attack in Gwana district of Alkaleri Local Government Area, which reportedly claimed lives and led to abductions. The group called for intensified security measures to stem the tide of violence and protect vulnerable communities.
As the leadership tussle continues, party faithful and political watchers alike will be keenly observing whether the calls for unity and due process will douse tensions—or further inflame an already delicate situation within the Bauchi ADC fold.
Source: leadership.ng
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https://leadership.ng/group-defends-kashim-imam-waziri-in-bauchi-adc-leadership-dispute/
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One Feared Dead As Armed Herdsmen Invade Benue Community
February 23, 2026
By Justina Otio
Herdsmen have killed at least one person in Olojo, Ojantelle, and Edikwu Icho villages in Apa Local Government Area of Benue State.
According to Daily Post, the incident occurred on February 22.
Security sources revealed that the bandits struck around 1:45 p.m., opening fire sporadically and sending residents into panic.
Troops and tactical units quickly confronted the attackers in a gun battle, forcing them to retreat into nearby bushes.
During the raid, Ngbede Okpe Agabaidu, a resident of Edikwu Icho, was shot dead.
His body was subsequently taken to the local mortuary.
Military authorities have deployed aerial surveillance and are combing the surrounding areas in a bid to locate and apprehend the fleeing assailants.
Meanwhile, gunmen have stormed a relaxation spot in Doruwa Babuje community in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State.
According to Sahara Reporters, the assailants invaded the scene on Sunday evening and murdered no fewer than nine people in what residents described as a brazen and calculated attack.
The assault, which occurred at about 7:15pm, shattered what had been a calm evening at the local hangout, where residents had gathered to unwind at the close of the weekend.
Witnesses said the attackers opened fire, sending people scrambling for safety as confusion and panic engulfed the area.
The latest killings have deepened fear across Barkin Ladi, a locality within Plateau State that has witnessed recurring bouts of violence in recent years.
Source: naijanews.com
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https://www.naijanews.com/2026/02/23/one-feared-dead-as-armed-herdsmen-invade-benue-community/#google_vignette
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Court Adjourns Mamu’s Suit Against AGF Over ‘Terrorist’ Designation
February 23, 2026
By Enioluwa Adeniyi
The Federal High Court in Abuja on Monday adjourned the fundamental rights enforcement suit filed by alleged terrorist negotiator, Tukur Mamu, against the Attorney-General of the Federation to April 23 for adoption of written addresses.
Naija News understands that Mamu is challenging his designation as a “terrorist” by the AGF while he is still standing trial.
The matter, slated for the adoption of written addresses before Justice Mohammed Umar, could not proceed and was subsequently adjourned.
Mamu, in the suit marked FHC/ABJ/CS/713/2024, is the applicant, while the AGF is the sole respondent.
Through his counsel, Johnson Usman, SAN, Mamu had earlier argued that the AGF’s action contravened Section 36(5) of the 1999 Constitution, which presumes a defendant innocent until proven guilty.
Usman told the court that media publications designating his client as a terrorist were attached as exhibits to their application.
He said, “It is the court that has the power to designate him as a terrorist after he must have been convicted and sentenced by a court.
“It is only my lord that has the power and duty, and not the respondent in this instant case.
“Having done that, the applicant is entitled to damages and to teach them a lesson that you cannot designate a person a terrorist who is undergoing a trial.”
He further argued that it was legally and morally wrong to label Mamu a terrorist before the conclusion of his trial.
However, counsel to the AGF, David Kaswe, opposed the application, stating that the Federal Government acted within the law.
He said the respondent filed a counter-affidavit and placed reliance on Sections 49 and 50 of the Terrorism Prevention and Prohibition Act, 2022.
According to him, the law empowers the Sanction Committee to recommend designation where there are reasonable grounds to suspect involvement in terrorism.
“So the respondent acted within the provisions of the law,” Kaswe said.
He added that under Section 49, the committee may recommend designation where a person is suspected of committing or facilitating acts of terrorism or terrorism financing.
Kaswe maintained that Mamu was “a designated terrorist and not a convicted terrorist.”
“If my lord finds the applicant guilty of the offences charged, convicted and sentenced, this time, the applicant will be a convicted terrorist,” he said.
Justice Umar asked the AGF’s counsel to clarify whether it was lawful to designate a defendant who is still on trial as a terrorist before the conclusion of the case.
“So if at the end of the day, the court did not find him guilty and he is discharged of terrorism offences, what happens to the designation?” the judge queried.
Kaswe responded that the Sanction Committee, which meets quarterly, has the power to review such designation under the Act.
He urged the court to dismiss Mamu’s application and hold that the AGF has the legal authority to designate him.
But Usman insisted that reliance on Section 49 of the Act conflicts with Section 36 of the Constitution.
“By virtue of Section 36(5) of the Constitution, he is innocent until proven guilty,” he argued.
“So their dependence on Section 49 of the Terrorism Prevention Act to convict a person who is standing trial is unlawful and should be declared a nullity.”
Justice Umar subsequently demanded further addresses on the interplay between Section 36 of the Constitution and Section 49 of the Terrorism Prevention Act before adjourning the matter to April 23 for adoption of final written addresses.
Source: naijanews.com
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https://www.naijanews.com/2026/02/23/court-adjourns-mamus-suit-against-agf-over-terrorist-designation/
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Ethiopia marks 65th army anniversary amid Tigray tensions
February 23, 2026
Ethiopia celebrated the 65th anniversary of its Special Operations Command on Sunday in Hawassa, with Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed praising the military's modernization efforts, as renewed tensions simmer along the Tigray border—the region devastated by civil war between 2020 and 2022.
The event at Hawassa International Stadium drew senior leaders including Chief of General Staff Field Marshal Birhanu Jula and Deputy Chief General Abebaw Tadesse.
Elders from the Sidama community performed the traditional Qeetala ceremony, symbolizing honor and unity.
Display of modernized capabilities
Troops showcased precision drills, water-borne exercises, and coordinated airborne operations.
Abiy emphasized that defense reforms have transformed the command into a modern force integrating airborne, commando, and counter-terrorism divisions. "Ethiopia is a nation built by generations of heroes," he said.
Celebration amid regional tensions
The anniversary comes as tensions persist in northern Tigray, where the 2020-2022 conflict killed hundreds of thousands.
The show of force signals Ethiopia's determination to maintain military readiness while honoring six decades of service safeguarding national sovereignty.
Source: africanews.com
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https://www.africanews.com/2026/02/23/ethiopia-marks-65th-army-anniversary-amid-tigray-tensions/
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Southeast Asia
Malaysia’s AI governance Bill still taking shape, Anwar says law to cover full lifecycle, including data centres
By Soo Wern Jun
24 Feb 2026
KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 24 — The proposed Artificial Intelligence (AI) Governance Bill is still at an early drafting stage and will undergo further engagement sessions, including scrutiny by a Parliamentary Special Select Committee, to ensure no issues are overlooked.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said the Bill will address copyright and intellectual property concerns by establishing a comprehensive regulatory framework covering the entire lifecycle of AI systems.
“The proposed legislation would introduce a governance framework spanning the full lifecycle of AI technology – from development and training of models to deployment, monitoring and risk management.
“The question regarding the proposed Bill is very critical because it covers an aspect that has not previously been fully addressed, namely a comprehensive governance framework involving the entire lifecycle of AI systems,” Anwar said during the Prime Minister’s Question Time in the Dewan Rakyat today.
Anwar was responding to a question by PKR’s Ampang MP Rodziah Ismail on how the planned law will address copyright and intellectual property issues, provided that AI has been trained by copyright data and information, including texts, images, audios and videos.
He added that it is critical as it aims to fill a regulatory gap that has yet to be comprehensively addressed.
“The initiative represents a new policy approach not only for Malaysia but also for many countries grappling with regulating rapidly evolving AI technologies.
“The law will also clarify issues of accountability and ethics in AI use, while defining the responsibilities of both developers who build AI systems and deployers who implement them.
“As this is a new approach, it also ensures that existing laws remain applicable and enforceable,” he said.
On copyright protections specifically, Anwar said existing legislations under the Copyright Act 1987 already provide a legal basis that must be effectively enforced, with the Intellectual Property Corporation of Malaysia (MyIPO) tasked with strengthening monitoring and enforcement efforts.
He explained that copyright concerns involving AI fall into two main aspects – the material “input” used to train AI systems – such as copyrighted text, images, audio and video – and the “output” or content generated by AI systems.
Both aspects, he said, are being examined within existing legal frameworks alongside new regulatory measures.
“The Copyright Act 1987 must be enforced effectively, and MyIPO has been instructed to be mobilised and monitor this more effectively,” he added.
In a supplementary question, Rodziah said Malaysia must avoid becoming merely a consumer market for AI technology and instead ensure fairness across the digital value chain, particularly for local creators whose copyright protections are key to maintaining competitiveness.
She also raised concerns about coordination, noting that MyIPO falls under a different ministry, and asked how the government would ensure effective implementation across agencies.
Rodziah further expressed hope that the upcoming legislation would emphasise economic fairness for creators, provide legal certainty for investors, and adopt a risk-based regulatory approach that encourages creativity and innovation without overburdening local micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
She also asked whether the government would adopt risk classification models similar to those under the European Union’s AI Act and whether a tiered compliance approach would be introduced.
AI risk and ethical framework
In response, Anwar said an AI Risk and Classification Framework is already being incorporated into the proposed law to address potential harms and risks arising from AI use.
“The framework would include mechanisms such as harm assessment and incident reporting requirements to monitor negative impacts stemming from digital and AI applications.
“This involves ethical considerations because a clear weakness in many existing AI and digital systems today is the tendency to sideline ethical judgement,” he said.
Anwar added that Malaysia’s approach would place strong emphasis on citizens’ rights, ethical considerations and potential risks associated with AI deployment, with lawmakers expected to give particular attention to moral and ethical dimensions alongside legal and technical requirements.
Environmental and infrastructure concerns
In another supplementary question by Besut MP Datuk Che Mohamad Zulkifly Jusoh, he raised concerns over the environmental and infrastructure impact of AI development, noting that AI data centres require significant electricity and water resources.
He cited statistics from the United States showing data centres consume about 4.4 per cent of national electricity supply, while rapid AI expansion has also led to the use of millions of litres of water for server cooling.
Che Mohamad asked whether the proposed law would introduce energy efficiency standards or carbon footprint limits for technology companies seeking to build AI data centres in Malaysia, and how the government would ensure large-scale investments would not overload the national power grid, drive up electricity tariffs, or disrupt supply for households and small and medium industries.
In response to this, Anwar acknowledged that while energy and water consumption linked to data centres has seen a sharp increase, he said the government has already taken steps to manage the sector’s growth.
“About a year-and-a-half to two years ago, Malaysia has restricted approvals for new data centres that are not linked to high-value technologies such as AI.
“Applications for new data centres that are not related to AI – those seeking to take advantage of cheaper water and energy – have already been stopped,” he said.
Anwar added that projections by the Ministry of Energy Transition and Water Transformation showed that Malaysia still has sufficient capacity to meet demands from new projects over the next one to two years.
“For longer-term needs, regional and domestic energy initiatives are being pursued, including the Asean Power Grid linking Vietnam, peninsular Malaysia and Singapore, as well as plans to transmit energy from Sarawak to the peninsula and Singapore.
“While energy standards may not be directly included in the Bill, the concerns raised would be addressed through existing energy regulations and oversight frameworks, including those under national energy authorities and Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB).
“I take the concerns raised by Besut seriously, and these must be given careful attention,” he said.
Source: malaymail.com
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https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2026/02/24/malaysias-ai-governance-bill-still-taking-shape-anwar-says-law-to-cover-full-lifecycle-including-data-centres/210222
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Indonesia sends 29 Islamic scholars to US short courses
February 24, 2026
Jakarta (ANTARA) - Indonesia’s Religious Affairs Minister Nasaruddin Umar on Tuesday sent off 29 scholarship recipients from the Istiqlal Mosque Ulama Cadre Education Program for short courses in the United States.
The initiative aims to strengthen the academic capacity of Indonesia’s future Islamic scholars through international academic networks.
Twenty-one students will study at the University of California, Riverside, while eight will attend Hartford International University.
“This opportunity does not come to everyone. Focus on learning, broaden your horizons, and value every moment,” Nasaruddin Umar said in Jakarta.
He praised the participants for passing a competitive selection process, noting that studying in the United States is a responsibility requiring dedication and discipline.
Sending Indonesian ulama to global educational centers is part of efforts to boost the country’s educational diplomacy and cultivate a moderate, globally competitive religious perspective, he added.
The minister urged students to make full use of their time abroad, emphasizing that punctuality and diligence are key to developing the next generation of Islamic scholars.
“Use your time wisely. Do not let any learning opportunity pass without meaning,” he said.
Nasaruddin Umar also encouraged participants to apply their knowledge for the public good, not just personal advancement.
“The knowledge you gain must benefit the community. You are expected to bridge Indonesia’s scholarly traditions with global experience in ways that serve society,” he said.
The Istiqlal Mosque Ulama Cadre Education Program is a mosque-based initiative designed to produce religious leaders with deep Islamic knowledge, national awareness, and the ability to address global challenges in a moderate and constructive manner.
Source: antaranews.com
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https://en.antaranews.com/news/405694/indonesia-sends-29-islamic-scholars-to-us-short-courses
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Sultan Ibrahim receives briefing on federal govt affairs from PM Anwar
24 Feb 2026
KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 24 — His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, today granted an audience to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
During the session, His Majesty was presented with the latest developments concerning the administration of the federal government and discussions were held on current issues of national interest.
According to a post on the Facebook page of Sultan Ibrahim Sultan Iskandar, the meeting between His Majesty and the Prime Minister took place at Istana Bukit Tunku here. — Bernama
Source: malaymail.com
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https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2026/02/24/sultan-ibrahim-receives-briefing-on-federal-govt-affairs-from-pm-anwar/210196
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Court dismisses preacher’s appeal to reinstate teaching certification
23 Feb 2026
The Court of Appeal dismissed Ahmad Dusuki’s bid to reinstate his Islamic teaching certificate, upholding the High Court’s refusal to grant additional remedies.
PUTRAJAYA: The Court of Appeal today dismissed freelance preacher Ahmad Dusuki Abd Rani’s appeal to reinstate his Tauliah Mengajar (Islamic teaching certification).
A three-member panel led by Datuk Mohamed Zaini Mazlan clarified that the appeal concerned only the Shah Alam High Court’s refusal to grant additional remedies.
The High Court had previously allowed Ahmad Dusuki’s judicial review application. It issued a certiorari quashing the Selangor Islamic Religious Council (MAIS) decision of March 10, 2022, which had revoked his certification.
“The sole issue before this court is whether the learned High Court judge erred in refusing to grant declaratory relief, mandamus and damages,” said Mohamed Zaini.
He stated that the reliefs sought are discretionary in nature. An appellate court will not interfere unless the lower court acted on a wrong principle or the decision is plainly wrong.
The other two judges on the panel were Justices Datuk Dr Alwi Abdul Wahab and Datin Paduka Evrol Mariette Peters.
Justice Mohamed Zaini said the panel first considered the declaration that the revocation was null and void. He said the High Court’s certiorari had already nullified the revocation decision ab initio.
He held that any further declaration would be redundant. Declaratory relief must serve a purpose, and the trial judge was correct to refuse a needless declaration.
The judge then addressed the order of mandamus to reinstate the Tauliah Mengajar. He noted the certification expired on June 30, 2023, by effluxion of time.
“The High Court’s decision was delivered after it had expired,” he said. The appellant identified no statutory duty to reinstate an expired Tauliah, so the refusal of mandamus was correct.
Regarding a request to extend the certification without a new application, the court viewed this as circumventing the regulatory framework. Justice Mohamed Zaini accepted MAIS’s contention that the revocation letter did not cite political involvement.
“It is, in our opinion, a speculative move on the part of the appellant,” he added. The court agreed MAIS was entitled to set such regulations under state enactment.
On the issue of damages, the judge noted a public law violation does not automatically confer a right to compensation. An applicant must establish an independent cause of action recognised in private law.
“The appellant neither pleaded nor proved any such actionable cause,” he said. The court found no error warranting appellate interference.
The appeal was dismissed with costs of RM35,000. Ahmad Dusuki was represented by lawyers Ashok K Raman Nair and Mohd Jamil Yaacob.
Arham Rahimy Hariri appeared for MAIS.
Source: thesun.my
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https://thesun.my/news/malaysia-news/courts/court-dismisses-preachers-appeal-to-reinstate-teaching-certification/
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Tim Hortons® Singapore marks major milestone with official MUIS Halal certification ahead of the festive season
23 Feb 2026
SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 23 February 2026 – Tim Hortons® Singapore is pleased to announce that it has officially received Halal certification from the Majlis Ugama Islam Singapura (MUIS) across all its existing restaurants islandwide. This significant milestone arrives at a momentous time, as the brand prepares to join the local community in celebrating the upcoming Ramadan and Eid Al-Fitr festivities.
The attainment of the MUIS Halal mark, a global gold standard in Halal assurance, reaffirms Tim Hortons’ commitment to making its offering available to everyone. Since its debut in Singapore, the iconic Canadian coffee house has been a neighbourhood destination for all. With this certification, the brand’s full suite of signature coffee, iced beverages, sandwiches, and freshly baked treats is now accessible to the Muslim community, offering a new destination for family gatherings.
Fostering Connection in Singapore’s Multicultural Landscape
In Singapore’s unique multicultural landscape, dining is more than just a meal, it is a bridge between cultures. By securing official MUIS certification, Tim Hortons® strengthens its promise to provide a welcoming environment where every guest can gather with absolute peace of mind.
At Tim Hortons, we believe the best experiences are those that bring people together. Ramadan and Eid Al-Fitr are seasons defined by reflection, gratitude, and the spirit of sharing. We are honoured to receive this certification at such a meaningful time, allowing Tims to be a part of our guests’ festive traditions. Whether it is a cozy spot for Iftar or sharing our signature treats during Eid visits, we are delighted to be a part of your celebrations.
Elevating the Festive Table: An Expanded Range of Offerings
With the MUIS Halal seal, guests can now explore the full breadth of the Tim Hortons® menu, featuring a diverse array of flavours suited for both daily indulgence and festive hosting:
Hearty Iftar Options: For those looking to break their fast with a satisfying meal, our Signature Grilled Sandwiches, including the fan-favourite Pesto Chicken and the iconic Montreal Beef Pastrami, provide a warm and wholesome option.
The Ultimate Festive Treats: Our world-famous Timbits® and handcrafted Assorted Donut boxes are the perfect addition to any festive spread. These bite-sized treats are
ideal for sharing during family gatherings and as gifts when visiting loved ones during communal Iftar gatherings and during the Hari Raya season.
Handcrafted Beverages: Guests can enjoy our 100% Premium Arabica coffee, including the legendary Maple Cinnamon Latte and the Montreal Latte, as well as our signature Frappe Iced Beverages (Iced Capps®) and a variety of espresso-based lattes and non- caffeinated refreshing drinks, all prepared under strict Halal-certified protocols.
Savory Selection: The menu also features a range of made-to-order sandwiches, bagels and bakes, offering a variety of fresh and flavourful choices for any time of day.
Uncompromising Standards of Quality and Integrity
The journey to MUIS Halal certification involved a comprehensive and rigorous audit of the entire Tim Hortons® operational ecosystem. This included a meticulous review of the supply chain, ingredient sourcing, and kitchen preparation processes. This achievement ensures that the high-quality standards Tim Hortons® is known for globally, are harmonized with the stringent religious and food safety requirements of MUIS.
A Commitment to Future Growth
As Tim Hortons® continues to expand its footprint across Singapore, where it currently operates 17 stores, this certification is a pillar for all future outlets. The brand looks forward to opening more doors across the island, ensuring that the “Tims” experience remains accessible to all Singaporeans.
Source: thesun.my
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https://thesun.my/business/corporate-news/tim-hortons-singapore-marks-major-milestone-with-official-muis-halal-certification-ahead-of-the-festive-season/
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Investment inflows, foreign worker policy top MITI meeting with PM
24 Feb 2026
Key investment and foreign worker issues were discussed at MITI’s high-level meeting with Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim to improve policy implementation.
KUALA LUMPUR: Investment inflows into Malaysia were a central topic at a high-level meeting between the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry and Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
Minister Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani said discussions also covered foreign investments received and domestic requirements for foreign worker recruitment.
The meeting aimed to convey emerging issues needing senior management’s attention, including substantive matters requiring the Prime Minister’s consideration.
“We raised several important matters which require the Prime Minister’s attention to enable policies to be implemented more effectively,” Johari told reporters after the meeting.
He noted that while MITI’s policies are formulated and implemented, several areas can be improved.
Also present were Deputy Minister Sim Tze Tzin, Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar and MITI Secretary-General Datuk Hairil Yahri Yaacob.
Source: thesun.my
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https://thesun.my/news/malaysia-news/investment-inflows-foreign-worker-policy-top-miti-meeting-with-pm/
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South Asia
Mujahid: “If a Patient Cannot Cross into Pakistan, How Could TTP Members?”
February 24, 2026
KABUL: Zabiullah Mujahid, spokesperson of the Islamic Emirate, sharply questioned the claims of cross-border infiltration by the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), highlighting the implausibility of such movements.
In an interview with BBC on Monday, Mujahid said, “If even a sick patient cannot cross the border, how is it possible for TTP members to move freely?”
In a separate interview with Ariana News, Mujahid blamed Pakistan’s military regime of using cross-border attacks as a distraction from its domestic failures.
He explained that whenever the Pakistani authorities face challenges in handling armed opposition within their own borders, they allegedly launch attacks into Afghanistan to shift public attention and manipulate perceptions.
Mujahid’s comments reflect the Islamic Emirate’s strong stance against what it describes as unjustified incursions into Afghan territory.
The Islamic Emirate continues to stress that it maintains control over border areas and denies facilitating the movement of any foreign militant groups, he said.
The spokesperson reiterated that such attacks not only violate Afghanistan’s sovereignty but also worsen regional instability.
Source: thekabultimes.com
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https://thekabultimes.com/mujahid-if-a-patient-cannot-cross-into-pakistan-how-could-ttp-members/
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Islamic Emirate Rejects Foreign Policy Magazine’s Claims on Chinese Worker Security
February 24, 2026
KABUL: The Islamic Emirate has dismissed allegations published by Foreign Policy magazine suggesting the Afghan authorities are unable to protect Chinese workers from local threats, calling the claims “exaggerated and inaccurate.”
Zabihullah Mujahid, the spokesman of the Islamic Emirate, said in an audiotape that past incidents involving Chinese nationals were linked to smuggling networks and cross-border criminal activity, not a failure of security measures.
“Some of the incidents were related to smuggling activities along the borders, and tensions sometimes arise due to such operations,” Mujahid said. “Any attempts at targeted attacks have been effectively prevented.”
The Foreign Policy report, citing an American researcher, claimed that Chinese miners, particularly those involved in gold extraction along the Afghanistan-Tajikistan border, remain vulnerable to armed groups.
Source: thekabultimes.com
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https://thekabultimes.com/islamic-emirate-rejects-foreign-policy-magazines-claims-on-chinese-worker-security/
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Jamaat slams appointment of BNP-affiliated administrators to 6 city corporations
23 FEBRUARY 2026
Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami Secretary General Mia Golam Porwar has criticised the BNP-led government for appointing party-affiliated individuals as administrators to six city corporations, saying the move runs contrary to public expectations.
In a statement issued today by the party’s central publicity department, Porwar protested the decision, noting that a notification issued on February 22 by the Local Government Division named administrators for Dhaka North City Corporation, Dhaka South City Corporation, Khulna City Corporation, Sylhet City Corporation, Narayanganj City Corporation and Gazipur City Corporation.
Porwar argued that the appointments demonstrate the government’s disregard for the aspirations of the people.
“The July uprising aimed to establish a discrimination-free and democratic social order, complete the trial of the massacre, and implement necessary reforms,” he said.
He added that the 13th parliamentary election and a subsequent referendum were held as the first steps toward this goal, and that citizens naturally expected local government bodies to be filled through democratic elections.
The statement also highlighted positive indications from the Election Commission regarding upcoming local government polls.
Porwar described the administration’s move as “morally reprehensible” and tantamount to deceiving the public. He warned it could fuel suspicions of a wider scheme to delay local elections or pave the way for another “engineered election”.
He demanded the cancellation of the appointments of party-affiliated administrators and called for the immediate announcement of election schedules for city corporations and all other tiers of local government.
Source: thedailystar.net
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https://www.thedailystar.net/news/bangladesh/politics/news/jamaat-slams-appointment-bnp-affiliated-administrators-6-city-corporations-4113096
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UN Rights Council Opens 61st Session, Afghanistan on Agenda
By Fidel Rahmati
February 23, 2026
The UN Human Rights Council opened its 61st session in Geneva, with Afghanistan’s human rights situation high on the agenda.
The 61st session of the United Nations Human Rights Council began Monday in Geneva, attended by the UN Secretary-General and the President of the General Assembly.
The council said discussions and decisions would address key global human rights issues, including country-specific situations.
Naseer Ahmad Andisha said Afghanistan will be discussed in a dedicated dialogue and side events scheduled for February 26–27.
Richard Bennett is expected to present his report on the human rights situation in Afghanistan, focusing on the rights of women and girls.
Human rights monitors also cite restrictions on education, employment, media freedom, and minority protections, raising fears of deepening social and economic marginalization.
Since the Taliban’s return to power, Afghanistan has faced widespread international criticism over restrictions imposed on women and girls, including limits on education and employment.
Annalena Baerbock addressed the session’s opening, highlighting concerns over violations of Afghan women’s rights.
The session is expected to intensify international scrutiny of Afghanistan’s human rights record and shape future diplomatic and humanitarian engagement.
Source: khaama.com
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https://www.khaama.com/un-rights-council-opens-61st-session-afghanistan-on-agenda/
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Minister Jalali Underscores Urgent Need for Comprehensive National Health Strategy
February 24, 2026
KABUL: Mawlavi Noor Jalal Jalali, the Ministry of Public Health of the Islamic Emirate, emphasized the urgent need for a comprehensive national health strategy, calling it a critical roadmap to strengthen the country’s health system, improve service delivery, and ensure coordinated, goal-oriented planning across all provinces.
Speaking at a meeting to review the final draft of Afghanistan’s new National Public Health Strategy, he stated that the strategy will serve as a clear roadmap for the next five years, enabling health officials to deliver services in a more organized, efficient, and goal-oriented manner, according to a statement from the ministry on Monday.
“This national strategy was an essential requirement for improving Afghanistan’s health system,” Jalali said. “It will act as a guiding framework to ensure that health services are planned and implemented based on a clear, practical, and measurable structure.”
The Ministry of Public Health confirmed that an operational and implementation plan will soon be developed to ensure that the strategy’s goals are executed effectively and within the designated timelines.
Once approved, the National Public Health Strategy is expected to improve service delivery, streamline administrative coordination, and enhance the overall performance of Afghanistan’s health system in the years ahead.
Source: thekabultimes.com
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https://thekabultimes.com/minister-jalali-underscores-urgent-need-for-comprehensive-national-health-strategy/
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IEA Summons Pakistani Envoy Over Deadly Airstrikes in Nangarhar, Paktika
February 24, 2026
KABUL: The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has summoned Pakistan’s ambassador in Kabul to formally protest the recent Pakistani military regime airstrikes on Nangarhar and Paktika provinces.
In an official statement the other day, the Ministry said: “Pakistan was reminded that protecting Afghanistan’s territory is a religious and national responsibility of the Islamic Emirate, and that Pakistan will bear full responsibility for any consequences arising from such attacks.”
The Ministry strongly condemned the violation of Afghanistan’s airspace and the bombing of civilians, describing the strikes as a “clear breach of national sovereignty and a provocative act.”
This comes after Pakistani forces carried out airstrikes in Paktika and Nangarhar, resulting in multiple civilian casualties and widespread condemnation.
Source: thekabultimes.com
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https://thekabultimes.com/iea-summons-pakistani-envoy-over-deadly-airstrikes-in-nangarhar-paktika/
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Road to Be Constructed in Balkh Province
February 24, 2026
MAZAR-I-SHARIF: A road project worth 11.794 million Afghanis will be implemented in Dawlatabad District of Balkh Province.
The project involves paving a 200-meter-long and 10.5-meter-wide street, complete with a 200-meter drainage system and a 2-meter-wide central concrete divider to enhance traffic safety, the provincial Municipality said in a statement on Monday.
Municipal officials stated that the work will be completed within four months and is part of a broader effort to modernize urban infrastructure, improve mobility for residents, and reduce congestion in the district’s busy central area.
They emphasized that this initiative reflects the municipality’s commitment to upgrading public services and fostering better living conditions for the community, while creating opportunities for economic activity and smoother transportation throughout Dawlatabad.
Source: thekabultimes.com
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https://thekabultimes.com/road-to-be-constructed-in-balkh-province/
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