Right Wing Activists Allege ‘Thook Jihad’ - Uttarakhand Police Nabs Chef For Spitting On Chapati
New Age Islam News Bureau
17 October 2025
Screenshot from the viral video (Photo:YouTube)
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· Right Wing Activists Allege ‘Thook Jihad’ - Uttarakhand Police Nabs Chef For Spitting On Chapati
· Religious Hate Crimes Hit New Peak; Anti-Muslim Incidents Top 4,400 In England And Wales
· Vatican 'Grants Muslim Scholars' Request For A Prayer Room’
· Authoritative Fatwa Vital To Safeguard Muslim Faith In Modern Era And Foreign Ideological Influences: Governor of Sarawak
· Global Stars, Industry Leaders Highlight Saudi Arabia’s Role In Shaping Entertainment Sector At Joy Forum Event
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India
· Oscar-Winning AR Rahman: ‘I Instantly Loved’ How A Hindu Astrologer Gave Me My Muslim Name ‘Allahrakha”, [Protected by God],
· Allegations Of Muslim Exclusion From Bihar Voters’ List Communal, SIR ‘Accurate’, Says ECI
· India slams Pakistan for supporting terror amid cross-border fight with Afghanistan
· Three soldiers injured as terrorists attack Army camp in Assam’s Tinsukia
· After ruckus on Holi, tension at Aligarh Muslim University over Diwali
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Europe
· Israeli Minister Hosts UK Anti-Islam Figure Tommy Robinson In Tel Aviv
· Sweden seeks arrest of Koran burner's suspected murderer
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Southeast Asia
· Malaysian Hindus Embrace Sacred Traditions As Deepavali Brings Light And Prosperity Monday
· Home Ministry explains how scam syndicates still lure Malaysians into modern slavery
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Arab World
· Saudi Arabia reaffirms safety efforts on World Food Day
· KSrelief, Reef Saudi to advance sustainable agriculture
· US college fair draws crowds of students in Saudi Arabia looking to study abroad
· Horror Con 2025 begins in Jeddah
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North America
· New York Muslim, Allied Groups Call on Congressional Delegation to Condemn Racist, Anti-Muslim Attacks on Mamdani
· Five takeaways from NYC mayoral debate as Mamdani and Cuomo clash
· Former Trump adviser John Bolton criminally indicted
· CIA deployment gives Trump no 'limitations' on Venezuela action
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South Asia
· Afghanistan And Pakistan Have Islamic Duty To Work Together For Peace: Iranian President
· 'Some parties deceiving people in the name of consensus by signing July Charter'
· Hasina should be sentenced to death 1,400 times: Tajul
· Islami Andolan, Khelafat Majlish decide to sign July Charter
· Madrasa board fares better than technical
· Iran to issue 200,000 work visas to Afghan nationals
· Kabul, Beijing Discuss Bilateral Ties
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Mideast
· How Iraq is reclaiming its ancient heritage to become a cultural tourism destination
· US denies claims Hamas violating ceasefire over hostage returns
· Israel, Hamas trade blame over truce violations, Rafah border reopening eyed but no date set
· Israel hands 30 Palestinian bodies to Red Cross in Gaza
· UN rejects Houthi espionage allegations as ‘disturbing’ and dangerous, urges release of detained staff
· Lebanon says Israeli strikes kill one and wound seven
· Palestinian PM pitches $65 billion five-year plan to rebuild Gaza
· Palestinian child shot dead by Israeli forces near Hebron
· Turkish experts to help find hostage bodies in Gaza: ministry sources
· Israeli forces demolish two-story home in Al-Mughayyir near Ramallah
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Africa
· Muslim Rights Concern Urges National Insurance Commission to Unban Co-Insurance With Takaful
· DHQ Explains Why Some Soldiers Fighting Terrorists Have Not Gotten Their Feeding Allowance
· Global Islamic finance assets to hit $9.7trn by 2029 – LSEG, ICD report
· Why I embrace Muslim, Christian identities – Nasboi
· UN condemns military coup in Madagascar: calls for restoration of peace and unity
· ‘You Will Remain Social Media President’ – Wike Blasts Peter Obi
Compiled by New Age Islam News Bureau
URL: https://newageislam.com/islamic-world-news/thook-jihad-uttarakhand-police-chef-spitting/d/137286
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Right Wing Activists Allege ‘Thook Jihad’ - Uttarakhand Police Nabs Chef For Spitting On Chapati
October 16, 2025
Screenshot from the viral video (Photo:YouTube)
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Uttarakhand Police on Thursday arrested a restaurant chef in Uttarkashi after his alleged video of spitting on Chapati triggered an agitation by right wing organisations that claimed yet another attempt of ‘Thook jihad’ in the state.
As the video of the restaurant kitchen in Uttarkashi went viral, a massive public protest erupted led by right wing organisations in the town. Youths belonging to Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP), Bajrang Dal and other saffron outfits took to the streets and called for complete shutdown of the market, demanding action against the accused man. The agitators alleged that police and administration were unable to check incidents of ‘thook jihad’ from men of a particular community in restaurants’ kitchens.
According to the police, a case has been registered in the matter and investigation has begun. The license of the restaurant will be cancelled, the police added.
“A case was registered against the accused man who was seen in the video spitting on Chapatis at a restaurant tandoor. Guilty will not be spared. Action is also being initiated to cancel the license of the restaurant,” said Janak Pawar, Circle Officer Uttarkashi.
Source: thestatesman.com
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Religious Hate Crimes Hit New Peak; Anti-Muslim Incidents Top 4,400 In England And Wales
Pramod Thomas
Oct 16, 2025
There have been protests and counter-demonstrations over migration (Photo: Getty Images)
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HATE crimes recorded by the police in England and Wales have risen sharply, with religiously aggravated and racially motivated incidents registering a significant spike, according to the latest statistics released by the Home Office last Thursday (9).
Police forces logged 115,990 hate crimes in the year ending March 2025, a two per cent increase compared with the previous year. Race hate offences accounted for the majority at 71 per cent or 82,490 offences, followed by religious hate crimes at 7,164 offences.
Within these figures, anti-Muslim hate crimes reached a record high of 4,478 offences (45 per cent), followed by 2,873 (29 per cent) anti-Jewish crimes, 502 antiChristian hate offences (five per cent), 259 (three per cent) anti-Sikh and 182 (two per cent) anti-Hindu hate crimes.
“Hate crime statistics show that too many people are living in fear because of who they are, what they believe, or where they come from,” said home secretary Shabana Mahmood.
“Jewish and Muslim communities continue to experience unacceptable levels of often violent hate crime, and I will not tolerate British people being targeted simply because of their religion, race, or identity.”
Police patrols have been increased at synagogues and mosques around the UK following recent terror attack at a Manchester synagogue, Mahmood said.
Police forces in England and Wales are facing mounting pressure to strengthen hate crime enforcement and rebuild confidence among minority communities.
Community groups have urged the government to introduce mandatory anti-racism training within the police, alongside improved victim support and outreach in areas with growing South Asian populations.
Stephen Walcott, head of policy at the Runnymede Trust, told Eastern Eye the current wave of violence “cannot be divorced from a political agenda which sows hatred and divisions, and is promoted by the British media consistently”.
He said successive governments and mainstream parties have “flirted with racist politics for years – demonising migrants, asylum seekers and Muslims to distract from policies that have hollowed out communities and inflicted deep poverty.”
Walcott linked this to figures such as farright agitator Tommy Robinson and billionaire backers “including Elon Musk” who exploit racial tensions and “treat people of colour in the UK with complete contempt”.
The Home Office pointed to a “clear spike” in religious hate crimes targeted at Muslims in August last year, following the murder of schoolgirls at a Taylor Swiftthemed dance class in Southport and the subsequent misinformation around the UK-born attacker’s motivations and immigration status.
The number of religious hate crimes targeted at Jewish people fell by 18 per cent, from 2,093 to 1,715 offences, but the Home Office cautioned that these figures exclude data from the Metropolitan Police – which recorded a major chunk of all religious hate crimes targeted at Jewish people. This exclusion of Met Police statistics from the overall analysis is due to a change in the force’s crime recording system since February 2024, which restricts comparisons with data supplied in previous years.
Over the past two years, there have been at least eight major racially motivated attacks and violent incidents targeting south Asians. The surge, documented by police and academic researchers, shows a pattern of abuse, from verbal harassment to deadly assaults, with victims and campaigners warning that racism has become both more visible and more vicious.
A University of Leicester study, launched in parliament in 2024, revealed that 45 per cent of Asians in the UK experienced hate crime during 2023–2024, and 55 per cent of them suffered multiple incidents.
However, only one in 10 victims reported these crimes to the police, citing mistrust and a lack of confidence in authorities.
Most perpetrators were under 30 and often acted in groups, according to the study, with attacks ranging from public slurs and threats to serious assaults, sexual violence and murder.
Prominent incidents include the recent racially aggravated rape of a Sikh woman in Oldbury, the murder of 80-year-old Bhim Kohli in Leicester (2024), and coordinated riots in Hartlepool, Middlesbrough and Rotherham that targeted Asian communities and asylum seekers.
Large cities including London, Birmingham, Manchester and Leicester continue to report spikes in racially motivated attacks, with many Asians saying they now alter their routines, avoiding public transport at night or refraining from speaking in their native languages in public, to avoid harassment.
Professor Anand Menon, director of UK in a Changing Europe at King’s College London, said there is “very little doubt that the political language around race and race relations has become much nastier in recent years”.
“It’s obviously connected to the rising salience of immigration as an issue, and to the increasing popularity of a populist party that is willing to stress the cultural as well as the economic impact of immigration. So, it shouldn’t be wholly surprising that we’re seeing a rise in hate crimes,” he told Eastern Eye. Menon noted that Britain lives in “very polarised times – not just in politics, but in the wider world too, from what’s happening in Gaza to what (US president) Donald Trump is doing.”
“At a minimum, we’ve got a right to expect the head of a notionally progressive, centre-left party to speak out much more firmly and much more quickly against racism than he’s been willing to do. His reaction was quite slow and quite delayed, and people notice that,” Menon said.
He suggested that economic insecurity lies at the root of rising hate crimes. “We’ve had 15 to 20 years of very poor economic performance. People have seen wages stagnate, inflation and prices go up, and a housing crisis develop, because we haven’t built enough homes.
“When people feel economically insecure, they’re more prone to turn their anger towards immigrants and blame them for everything that’s going wrong.”
Campaigners also noted the escalation in hate crime after the Covid-19 pandemic. Hate incidents against Asians trebled in 2020, and levels have remained persistently high since. The latest England and Wales figures show decreases in hate crimes based on sexual orientation, down two per cent to 18,702 from 19,127, and disability hate crimes, which decreased by eight per cent from 11,131 to 10,224.
There was also a fall in transgender hate crimes by 11 per cent from 4,258 to 3,809, the second consecutive annual fall.
Source: easterneye.biz
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https://www.easterneye.biz/religious-hate-crimes-anti-muslim/
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Vatican 'Grants Muslim Scholars' Request For A Prayer Room’
16 October 2025
The Vatican has granted Muslim scholars' request for a prayer room.
In an interview with Italian newspaper La Repubblica, Father Giacomo Cardinali, the Vice Prefect of the Vatican Library, said the ancient institution is now allowing academics an area to practice their own religion onsite.
He said: 'Some Muslim scholars asked us for a room with a prayer rug, and we gave it to them.'
The Vatican Library, one of the oldest in the world, has been collecting religious texts from across the world since it was formally established in 1475 by Pope Sixtus IV.
It is now home to some of the oldest theological material in the world, a fact that Cardinali subtly bragged about.
'We are a universal library, with Arabic, Jewish, Ethiopian collections, and unique Chinese pieces.
'Years ago, we discovered we have the oldest medieval Japanese archive outside of Japan.'
Today, it is home to around 80,000 manuscripts, 50,000 archival items, 100,000 engravings, prints, coins & medals and nearly two million printed books.
And with an online requesting system, Cardinali said the library receives extraordinary requests from around the world.
He said: 'We've been receiving the most absurd requests, especially from America: do you have the time machine? And the Menorah from the Temple of Jerusalem taken away by Titus? And the Holy Grail?'
But not everyone treats the Vatican with the same reverence.
The as-yet-unidentified man was seen climbing up to the Altar of Confession, one of the most sacred places in the Catholic faith, on Friday.
Upon reaching the sacred area, he pulled his trousers down and began urinating.
Two security guards tried restraining him at the 9am mass as visitors and worshipping looked on in horror.
Cops grabbed the man and dragged him way. But he bent down to pull up his trousers, flashing his bare backside to the gathered crowd.
While the Vatican has not yet released a statement on the matter, Pope Leo was said to have been shocked by the desecration.
It is not currently known if the man has been arrested or charged for the incident.
Source: dailymail.co.uk
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https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-15198091/Vatican-grants-request-Muslim-prayer-room.htm
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Authoritative Fatwa Vital To Safeguard Muslim Faith In Modern Era And Foreign Ideological Influences: Governor of Sarawak
theSun Local
2025-10-16
Credit: Tun Pehin Sri Dr Haji Wan Junaidi Bin Tuanku Jaafar / Facebook
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SIBU: The Yang di-Pertua Negeri of Sarawak Tun Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar has emphasised that a fatwa serves both to address Islamic legal questions and to bridge Shariah evidence with Sarawak’s Muslim community realities.
He stated that a strong and authoritative fatwa institution ensures Muslims receive accurate, authentic, and contextually relevant guidance during his opening address at the 2025 Sarawak state-level fatwa seminar.
This year’s seminar theme ‘Fatwa Berautoriti, Ummah Lestari’ calls for broad conceptual understanding to support balanced development in knowledge, spirituality, and humanity.
“Authoritative fatwa is vital in safeguarding the faith of Muslims, especially in the era of social media and foreign ideological influences,“ he said at the Sarawak Islamic Complex.
Wan Junaidi described a sound fatwa as a bulwark against deviant beliefs and provocations that could undermine Muslim faith.
He stressed that halal-related fatwas must be viewed holistically as encompassing the entire way of life rather than merely food and products.
The Governor called for empowering the fatwa institution through muftis’ scholarly credibility and systematic derivation of rulings methodology.
He emphasised the need for an inclusive approach involving experts to ensure decisions are authoritative and legally sound under state law.
“Astana Negeri consistently prioritises the strengthening of the fatwa institution as a key foundation,“ he added.
Wan Junaidi stressed that fatwas must serve as comprehensive guidance in economy, healthcare, education, technology, and social well-being.
He stated that a comprehensive scholarly approach ensures the fatwa institution remains relevant and provides humane, reality-based solutions.
The fatwa institution must also be more inclusive by opening two-way communication channels for public engagement and direct guidance. – Bernama
Source: thesun.my
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https://thesun.my/malaysia-news/authoritative-fatwa-vital-to-safeguard-muslim-faith-in-modern-era-KE15110875
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Global stars, industry leaders highlight Saudi Arabia’s role in shaping entertainment sector at Joy Forum event
October 16, 2025
The first day of Joy Forum 2025 kicked off Thursday at the SEF Arena in Boulevard City, bringing together global leaders, athletes, creators and decisionmakers to explore the future of entertainment and Saudi Arabia’s expanding role in the sector. (Supplied)
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RIYADH: The first day of Joy Forum 2025 kicked off Thursday at the SEF Arena in Boulevard City, bringing together global leaders, athletes, creators and decisionmakers to explore the future of entertainment and Saudi Arabia’s expanding role in the sector.
UFC President Dana White opened the forum in a session titled “Unconventional Pioneer,” reflecting on his journey in turning combat sports into a global entertainment industry.
White praised Saudi support for boxing and combat sports, saying: “Since Turki Alalshikh entered the world of boxing, the impact has been clear and everyone felt the difference.”
He highlighted the Kingdom’s role in creating new markets, innovative formats and integrated experiences that have become global benchmarks.
The second session, “GOAT Narrative,” featured White alongside NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal and tennis icon Novak Djokovic, discussing how sports legends evolve into platforms that build long-term legacy.
O’Neal described Saudi efforts in sport as “an exceptional achievement that changed the game,” while White said the Kingdom’s backing “revived the world of boxing and combat sports.”
Djokovic expressed his gratitude for being part of the forum, calling it “a remarkable event.”
Entertainment executives also took the stage at the event.
WWE President Nick Khan and General Entertainment Authority CEO Faisal Bafarat discussed the Kingdom’s rapid rise as a hub for global sports entertainment.
Bafarat highlighted the historic agreement to bring WrestleMania to Riyadh Season 2027, noting that a decade ago there was no comprehensive concept of entertainment in the Kingdom.
Khan praised Saudi Arabia as “one of the most powerful and successful” WWE partners.
Sessions on film, television,and digital media showcased the Kingdom’s ambitions as a creative hub.
Korean actors Lee Byung-hun and Lee Jung-jae, and director Yoon Je-kyoon, discussed South Korea’s production model for turning local content into globally exportable intellectual property.
Writers and producers including Derek Kolstad, Terence Winter,and Alik Sakharov explored emerging production ecosystems, the role of data, and partnerships between platforms and creators.
Netflix VP Ben Amadasun highlighted the global reach of Arab content, noting the popularity of Saudi productions such as “AlRawabi School for Girls.”
Adnan Kayal, CEO of Entertainment & Content at Sela, said Saudi Arabia was entering new creative fields daily, calling the Kingdom’s position “growing” and welcoming international collaboration.
“The story of Saudi Arabia in cinema is still at the beginning. Today, the time has come to show the world the creativity and competitive power of the Saudi people,” he said.
The day concluded with “Stream to Mainstream,” a session on digital creators featuring MrBeast and Speed, moderated by actor Terry Crews.
MrBeast reflected on his rise to global stardom, saying: “I focused on big ideas — sometimes crazy and unique — and set challenges that entertained people around the world.”
Speed hinted at a new sport, saying: “I might create a new sport … and launch it in Saudi Arabia.”
Joy Forum 2025 continues on Friday with sessions on entrepreneurship, artificial intelligence, theme parks, Bollywood and intellectual property.
Source: arabnews.com
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https://www.arabnews.com/node/2619166/saudi-arabia
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India
Oscar-Winning AR Rahman: ‘I Instantly Loved’ How A Hindu Astrologer Gave Me My Muslim Name ‘Allahrakha”, [Protected by God],
Oct 16, 2025
Feted musician and Oscar-winning composer AR Rahman is one of India’s most loved and celebrated artists. He has not only created timeless music but also inspired millions of people with his songs. But not many know that his current name, Allahrakha Rahman, was actually suggested by a Hindu astrologer.
Rahman once opened up about how his spiritual journey began after his father’s death, marking a turning point in his life.
Rahman did not connect with the given name
Rahman was named as Dilip Kumar at birth but he never felt fully connected to this name. In a past chat with Dawn, he said, “The truth is I never liked my name. No disrespect to the great actor Dilip Kumar! However, somehow my name didn’t match the image I had of myself.”
Hindu astrologer offered two Muslim name options
The name change happened during a family visit to an astrologer. Rahman explained, “Sometime before we started on our journey on the path of Sufism, we went to an astrologer to show him my younger sister’s horoscope because my mother wanted to get her married. This was around the same time when I was keen to change my name. The astrologer looked at me and said, ‘This chap is very interesting.’”
Rahman immediately chose one suggested name
The astrologer offered two names, Abdul Rahman and Abdul Rahim. Rahman shared, “I instantly loved the name Rahman. It was a Hindu astrologer who gave me my Muslim name. Then my mother had this intuition that I should add Allahrakha [Protected by God], and that’s how I became AR Rahman.”
Close friend witnessed Rahman’s faith transformation
Cinematographer Rajiv Menon, witnessed Rahman’s gradual move towards Islam. Menon also acted as a translator when fakirs from Gulbarga came to Rahman’s house for the ceremony. In an earlier interview with O2 India, he said, “There was a period when they didn't know Hindi, so I would be the translator. I have seen this period of transition and gravitation towards religion and belief. I have seen Rahman deal with immense pressure from within the family, especially with the marriages of his sisters. It was music that helped him brave the storm.”
Music became his coping mechanism in struggles
Menon added how Rahman’s struggles shaped his music, “He'd say that music helped him forget it. He thought God gave him problems so that he can use music to gain some clarity.”
Source: indiatimes.com
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https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/news/i-instantly-loved-it-ar-rahman-once-recalled-how-a-hindu-astrologer-gave-him-his-muslim-name/articleshow/124608473.cms
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Allegations of Muslim exclusion from Bihar voters’ list communal, SIR ‘accurate’, says ECI
by Ananthakrishnan G
October 17, 2025
Stating that its Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of the voter list in Bihar was “accurate”, the Election Commission of India (ECI) Thursday described as “communal” the charge that Muslims were disproportionately excluded from the final list at the end of the SIR exercise.
It said the objective of the petitioners was to “derail and disrupt the SIR exercise and the formulation of final electoral roll for the State of Bihar, and to prevent SIR being conducted in other States across India”.
In an affidavit filed before a Supreme Court bench of Justices Surya Kant and Joymalya Bagchi, which is hearing petitions challenging the SIR, the ECI said that claims have been made on the basis of “some software for name recognition” but the fact is that the electoral rolls do not capture the religion of any elector.
It said that though no appeal has yet been filed against exclusion of anyone from the final list, “petitioners have sought to allege that there is disproportionate exclusion of Muslims (25% amongst 65 lakh excluded voters from the Draft Electoral Roll, and 34% amongst 3.66 lakh electors finally deleted). This is based on some software for name recognition whose authenticity, accuracy or appropriateness cannot be commented upon. This communal approach is to be deprecated. Electoral Rolls database does not capture any information on religion of any elector.”
Petitioners like NGO Association for Democratic Rights (ADR) and activist Yogendra Yadav had alleged that there was disproportionate exclusion of Muslims in the final voter list and that the exercise had led to exclusion of 81 lakh voters.
In its response, the ECI said that figures cited by the petitioners themselves “indicate that up till 2022, the number of voters were more than the projected total population and that justifies the exercise of SIR undertaken by” it “after a lapse of more than twenty-two (22) years since the previous SIR conducted in 2003”.
It said “more importantly, the stress on the figures pertaining to 2025 to indicate 81 lakh missing voters is fallacious for more than one reason. Firstly, for inexplicable reasons, the figures purportedly have been taken from the Technical Group on Population Projections 2019. There are such reports for subsequent years available. Without going into this aspect, it is not informed to this Hon’ble Court by the petitioners that the population projection is based on some formulation regarding subsequent yearly projections in the Census of 2011. The report of the Technical Group for July 2020 contains an important caveat that “population projection” is “conditioned by certain assumptions using past data”.
The ECI said that given the summary findings of the report of the Technical Group, “these population projections based on the 2011 census cannot be used for adjudging the accuracy of the Final Electoral Roll”.
It also flagged the limited contribution of political parties and public-spirited individuals and organisations in finalising the roll.
It said “finalisation of electoral roll involves an interplay of all stakeholders and the SIR is founded on this core principle. While it is the duty of the Electoral Registration Officers (EROs) to finalise the electoral roll accurately, it is equally the duty of the electors and the contending political parties, particularly the recognised political parties, to actively participate in ensuring that the final electoral roll is as inclusive and accurate as possible. The various Notes presented the ECl to this Hon’ble Court indicates that barring appointment of Booth Level Agents, the political parties and public-spirited individuals and organisations made no substantial contribution in ensuring that all the eligible electors were included in the Final Electoral Roll. The approach of the political parties and the petitioners has been to accuse the ECI and attempt to point out errors in the SIR exercise.”
“In contrast, the ECl not only appointed more than 90,000 BLOs, but also involved the political parties and got BLAs appointed. The exercise was conducted on an H2H (House to House) basis involving more than one visit. All relevant data was uploaded on the websites. Additionally, whatever directions given by this Hon’ble Court was also complied with. This Court also enabled the assistance of the State Legal Services Authority, yet the number of objections and correction applications were minimal. This indicates that the SIR exercise was accurate,” it said.
On Thursday, the petitioners urged the bench to direct the ECI to publish the names of those added or deleted from the main list.
The court recorded the ECI’s submission that it was in the process of publishing the same. “We have no doubt that they will fulfill their responsibility… they are bound to publish… we are not closing the matter.”
The ECI affidavit stated that the “petitioners’ objective, as has been made amply clear through the course of instant proceedings, is to derail and disrupt the SIR exercise and the formulation of final electoral roll for the State of Bihar, and to prevent SIR being conducted in other States across India”.
It said it had received only 25 claims for inclusion and 119 for exclusion with regard to the draft voter roll which “indicates that the status of approximately 65 lakh electors, who did not submit Enrolment Forms, does not suffer from any major defect and the same is broadly accurate”.
“The claims of the petitioners regarding time being short and exercise being conducted hastily was incorrect and misconceived; the reference to high degree of illiteracy of people in the State of Bihar, numerous districts being flooded, and therefore, SIR exercise would lead to mass disenfranchisement due to inability of electors to furnish documents sought under the SIR Order dated 24.06.2025 was also misconceived, incorrect and erroneous,” it said.
It said “non-inclusion of the approximately 65 lakh individuals who did not submit forms were due to death, permanent shifting, enrolment at multiple places, and this does not amount to deletion or disenfranchisement by the ECl,” and hence, “it is incorrect to say that the SIR exercise is so designed as to result in large scale disenfranchisement”.
Source: indianexpress.com
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https://indianexpress.com/article/india/muslim-exclusion-bihar-voters-list-communal-sir-eci-10310601/'
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India slams Pakistan for supporting terror amid cross-border fight with Afghanistan
Jayanth Jacob
17 Oct 2025
NEW DELHI: Amid the border tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan, India on Thursday launched a scathing attack on Islamabad, accusing it of sponsoring terrorism and deflecting blame for its own failures.
“We are closely monitoring the situation,” said Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal. “Three things are clear – first, Pakistan hosts terrorist organizations and sponsors terrorist activities; second, it is an old practice of Pakistan to blame its neighbours for its own internal failures; and third, Pakistan is infuriated with Afghanistan exercising sovereignty over its own territories,” the spokesperson said.
The spokesperson reiterated that “India remains fully committed to the sovereignty, territorial integrity, and independence of Afghanistan.” Answering another question, he said India will upgrade its technical mission to an embassy in the coming days.
The spokesperson’s remarks came in response to Pakistani Defence Minister Khawaja Asif’s provocative accusation that the Taliban government in Kabul was “fighting a proxy war” on behalf of India. Asif also alleged that Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi had made “ulterior plans” during his recent six-day visit to New Delhi. The trip, his first to India, was aimed at stepping up ties between the two countries.
The diplomatic row also coincides with a fragile 48-hour ceasefire that came into effect late Wednesday between Pakistan and Afghanistan, following days of fierce cross-border clashes. The fighting has left dozens of soldiers and civilians dead on both sides. Pakistan’s Foreign Office said both sides would “make sincere efforts to find a positive solution to this complex but solvable issue through constructive dialogue” during the truce.
The Taliban confirmed the ceasefire through spokesperson Zabiullah Mujahid, who stated on X that Afghan forces had been instructed to respect the truce “unless any aggression takes place.”
The week-long fighting had erupted after Taliban forces launched attacks near the southern Afghan-Pakistan border, prompting retaliatory strikes from Islamabad. Pakistan continues to accuse Kabul of harboring militants from the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), a charge the Taliban denies.
Meanwhile, the Pakistani military announced on Thursday that 34 TTP militants were killed in intelligence-based operations across North and South Waziristan and Bannu districts. Pakistani Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif said his government was open to talks with Kabul, stating, “The ball is in their court.”
The United Nations has also called for a permanent end to the hostilities. The UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan welcomed the ceasefire and urged both sides to protect civilians, noting the significant toll the fighting has taken.
Source: newindianexpress.com
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https://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/2025/Oct/16/india-slams-pakistan-for-supporting-terror-amid-cross-border-fight-with-afghanistan
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Three soldiers injured as terrorists attack Army camp in Assam’s Tinsukia
17.10.25
Three soldiers were injured after unidentified terrorists opened fire on an Army base in eastern Assam’s Tinsukia district shortly after midnight on Friday.
The attack targeted the Army’s Kakopathar Company post, located near the Assam-Arunachal Pradesh border.
The assailants fired from a moving vehicle, prompting troops to retaliate, multiple media reports noted.
“No major injuries were sustained other than minor abrasions to three personnel. The area has been sanitised and joint searches in coordination with the police are being carried out,” a defence spokesperson said.
The attackers are suspected to be from the banned insurgent outfit United Liberation Front of Asom- Independent (ULFA-I) and used grenade launchers and automatic rifles, NDTV reported quoting sources.
The group, which has been largely dormant in the region for years, is believed to have launched the strike in response to recent counter-insurgency operations near the Indo-Myanmar border, where some ULFA (I) members were killed.
Two separate attacks on Assam Rifles camps were reported on Thursday in Arunachal Pradesh’s Changlang district — one at an Assam Rifles Company Operating Base and another near Manmao.
Two militants were injured in the incidents, which police sources attributed to cadres of NSCN (K-YA) and ULFA (I).
Search operations are underway in both states to trace the attackers, the Army said.
Source: telegraphindia.com
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https://www.telegraphindia.com/india/three-soldiers-injured-as-terrorists-attack-army-camp-in-assams-tinsukia/cid/2128275
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After ruckus on Holi, tension at Aligarh Muslim University over Diwali
Oct 17, 2025
A controversy has erupted at Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) after the administration denied permission to Hindu students to celebrate Diwali on the campus on October 18. The university has asked the students to hold the celebration a day or two after October 18 due to a major event on October 17.
Even though the university has clarified that there was no restriction on celebrating Diwali, tensions are high following the ruckus in AMU ahead of Holi in March this year.
WHAT IS THE ROW ALL ABOUT?
Earlier this week, Akhil Kaushal, a student of mass communication, wrote to the vice chancellor requesting permission to hold Diwali celebrations at the NRSC club on October 18.
In his letter, Kaushal warned that the students would celebrate Diwali at the varsity's main entrance if they were not given permission.
"By not granting us permission during Holi celebrations, the AMU administration has already made a mistake. If they are smart, they will not repeat such a mistake again. If we still don't get permission, the Hindu students of the university will celebrate Diwali with great pomp at AMU's Bab-e-Syed Gate," he said.
While there has been no response form the vice chancellor, AMU proctor and professor Wasim Ali stressed that the university had not imposed any restriction on celebrating the festival.
"There is no restriction on organising the event, so there is no point in giving written permission... The only concern is that they want to celebrate on October 18, but due to a major event organised on October 17, it's not possible to clean the venue on October 18," Ali told ANI.
The university has requested 1-2 days to clean the place and asked the students to celebrate Diwali after that. However, the students have stuck to their demand. Diwali falls on October 19-20 this year.
CONTROVERSY AHEAD OF HOLI
Earlier this year, a controversy broke out after the AMU administration denied permission to hold a Holi milan function inside the campus on March 9.
It prompted several students and members of the Akhil Bharatiya Karni Sena to stage a massive protest against the varsity, alleging discrimination against Hindus. The outfit even wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, seeking his intervention in the matter.
The AMU administration eventually relented to the pressure and for the first time in the university's history, Holi was celebrated inside the campus amid heavy security. Students were seen raising slogans of 'Bharat Mata ki Jai' and 'Vande Mataram' during the celebrations.
Source: indiatoday.in
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https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/aligarh-muslim-university-diwali-permission-hindu-students-row-holi-ruckus-2804662-2025-10-17
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Europe
Israeli minister hosts UK anti-Islam figure Tommy Robinson in Tel Aviv
16 October, 2025
British far-right activist Tommy Robinson, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, is continuing his visit to Israel after arriving in Tel Aviv on Wednesday, following an invitation from Israeli Diaspora Affairs Minister Amichai Chikli of the Likud party.
Upon his arrival, Robinson - known for his anti-Muslim and anti-immigrant views - posted on X:
"Just landed in the beautiful State of Israel. Thank you Amichai Chikli. It’s an honor to be here and I look forward to meeting as many people as possible. A country with strong and patriotic leadership, led by Bibi Netanyahu and his party - unlike the weak and cowardly Keir Starmer and his misguided Labour Party in the UK."
In another post, the founder of the English Defence League (EDL) shared a video from Ben Gurion Airport, saying:
"I’m in Tel Aviv. It’s an honour to be here and to have been invited. Even though our government is weak and cowardly and recognised the terrorist state of Palestine, the British people stand with Israel."
The video shows Robinson being welcomed by an Israeli named Avi, filmed for Urban Scoop News, an anti-Muslim media outlet promoting far-right narratives. In the video, Robinson declares:
"Israel is surrounded by jihad. Britain will be surrounded by jihad. The security problem Israel faces here is the same one we’ll face in Europe."
He also insists he was not paid for his posts and describes himself as a "good friend of Israel", echoing Israeli propaganda lines about Israel being a democracy that respects human rights. At one point he adds:
"I’m an enemy of the state in Britain, and a friend of the state in Israel."
The far-right activist recently admitted however that billionaire Elon Musk paid for his legal costs, as he faces trial for refusing to comply with a police counterterrorism investigation.
Jewish condemnation
Several British Jewish organisations, including the Board of Deputies of British Jews and the Jewish Leadership Council, both of which are pro-Israel, condemned Robinson’s visit.
They called him “a thug who represents the worst of Britain.” and said his presence undermines genuine efforts to combat extremism and foster community cohesion, criticizing Chikli for ignoring the views of most British Jews, who reject Robinson.
The Labour Friends of Israel group also urged Chikli to withdraw the invitation, citing Robinson’s criminal record and stating that he is "no friend of the Jewish people".
On Thursday, Robinson released a new video from Tel Aviv titled 'Israel’s Hidden Illegal Migration Crisis', featuring Israeli activist Shefi Paz, often described as "Little Tommy of Israel".
The video focuses on African asylum seekers in Israel. Robinson also visited a Tel Aviv memorial to victims of the 7th October attacks.
Before his trip, he announced plans to meet Israeli soldiers and "community leaders" in south Tel Aviv “fighting illegal immigration.” According to Haaretz, he was expected to meet an Israeli army officer who fought in Sderot and to view a "terror footage" presentation by the Israeli Army.
The Times of Israel reported that Druze spiritual leader Sheikh Mowafaq Tarif was also on his meeting list.
Criminal Record and Incitement
Robinson has a long criminal history, having been imprisoned five times over the past two decades for offences including fraud, contempt of court, and drug crimes. Most recently, he served seven months for contempt of court in May 2024.
In 2018, he was jailed after live-streaming outside Leeds Crown Court during a sexual grooming case, violating a reporting ban.
He founded the far-right English Defence League in 2009, known for its violent, Islamophobic rallies. Though he briefly left in 2013, claiming he wanted to fight extremism through dialogue, he later resumed far-right activism with groups like PEGIDA UK, which is now defunct.
Robinson has also been accused of spreading misinformation, including false claims after a stabbing in Southport that sparked nationwide riots targeting mosques and refugees. Anti-racism groups have labelled him one of Britain’s leading instigators of hate against migrants and asylum seekers.
Accusations of Antisemitism
In 2023, organizers of a British march against antisemitism asked Robinson not to attend. In 2018, the Anti-Defamation League urged the Trump administration to deny him a visa.
Robinson was once a member of the far-right British National Party (BNP), historically associated with antisemitic and fascist ideologies.
According to The Guardian, Robinson’s media outlet Urban Scoop deleted a 2022 post titled 'Tommy’s Statement: The Jewish Question', which echoed classic antisemitic tropes about Jewish influence in media and politics.
“There are influential Jews — self-declared Zionists — who control the levers of power in entertainment, big tech, mainstream media, and governments," Robinson wrote in the article.
He also falsely cited pseudo-scientific sources, claiming that "Jews (at least European Ashkenazi Jews) have an average IQ of 110."
Source: newarab.com
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https://www.newarab.com/news/israeli-minister-hosts-uk-anti-islam-figure-tommy-robinson
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Sweden seeks arrest of Koran burner's suspected murderer
16/10/2025
Momika, an Iraqi Christian, was shot on January 29 in an apartment in Sodertalje, south of Stockholm. He died soon after in hospital.
"We have a clear picture of the sequence of events, and following extensive technical investigations and a review of the collected surveillance footage, we have requested that a person be remanded in custody," senior prosecutor Rasmus Oman said in a statement.
Oman added that "at present, the whereabouts of the suspect are unknown."
A court hearing will be held on Friday.
According to documents filed with the Sodertalje district court, the suspect was a 24-year-old Syrian man.
The prosecutor said the suspect "killed Salwan Momika by shooting him several times with a handgun," adding that the murder had been extensively planned.
Five men were originally arrested just hours after the shooting but were all released two days later.
They were formally dismissed as suspects in March.
Momika was killed just hours before a Stockholm court was due to rule whether he and co-defendant Salwan Najem were guilty of inciting ethnic hatred.
After Momika's murder, the Stockholm court postponed its ruling for several days.
It ultimately convicted 50-year-old Najem, also of Iraqi origin, of inciting ethnic hatred during four Koran burnings in 2023. There was no ruling on Momika.
Relations between Sweden and several Middle Eastern countries were strained by the pair's actions.
Iraqi protesters stormed the Swedish embassy in Baghdad twice in July 2023, starting fires in the compound on the second occasion.
In August 2023, Sweden's intelligence service Sapo raised its threat level to four on a scale of one to five, saying the Koran burnings had made the country a "prioritised target".
Source: france24.com
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https://www.france24.com/en/live-news/20251016-sweden-seeks-arrest-of-koran-burner-s-suspected-murderer
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Southeast Asia
Malaysian Hindus embrace sacred traditions as Deepavali brings light and prosperity Monday
17 Oct 2025
KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 17 — Hindus in Malaysia and around the world will celebrate Deepavali, the Festival of Lights, on Monday (Oct 20), marking the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil.
Malaysia Hindudharma Maamandram president A. Radhakrishnan explained that the festival, derived from the Tamil words Deepam (lamp) and Awali (array), represents the dispelling of ignorance and the pursuit of inner enlightenment.
“In Hindu belief, the divine presence or Paramathma resides in the lamp, while the flame symbolises the soul or Jeevathma. Together, they bless devotees with spiritual energy and positivity.
“One must discard arrogance, jealousy and ego – forms of darkness within – to be led from darkness to light, the true meaning of Deepavali,” he told Bernama.
Radhakrishnan said preparations for the festival begin a day earlier with prayers to the Kula Deivam (clan deity), lighting lamps to honour ancestors, and cleaning and decorating homes to welcome Goddess Mahalakshmi, the deity of wealth and prosperity.
On Deepavali morning, devotees perform the Ganga Snanam (holy oil bath) at dawn, a sacred ritual symbolising the cleansing of body and soul.
“The auspicious time, known as Brahma Muhurtham, ends one hour and 36 minutes before sunrise, which falls at 6.56 am in Kuala Lumpur. Therefore, the Ganga Snanam should be performed by 5.20 am,” he said.
Adding to traditions, Radhakrishnan said family members apply gingelly (sesame) oil on their heads before bathing, as it is believed to invoke the blessings of Goddess Mahalakshmi and Ganga Devi, bringing prosperity and peace to the household.
“After the bath, devotees don new clothes, and offer sweets and fruits to Lord Krishna or place them before a Poorna Kumbam for blessings. Children then seek the blessings of their parents and elders before changing into festive attire,” he said.
Malaysian Hindu Sangam president T. Ganesan, meanwhile, advised devotees to take the traditional oil bath between 5.45 am and 7 am, based on local sunrise time, noting that the ritual before sunrise bestows long life, good health and spiritual bliss.
He also urged Hindus to celebrate the festival peacefully and meaningfully by refraining from consuming alcohol, gambling or setting off loud firecrackers.
“Deepavali should be observed with peace, cleanliness and spiritual enlightenment. It is a time to foster happiness, harmony and unity within our families and communities,” he said, extending festive greetings to all Hindus. — Bernama
Source: malaymail.com
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https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2025/10/17/malaysian-hindus-embrace-sacred-traditions-as-deepavali-brings-light-and-prosperity-monday/194931
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Home Ministry explains how scam syndicates still lure Malaysians into modern slavery
By Ida Lim
17 Oct 2025
KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 17 — The Home Ministry has identified five key factors for why Malaysians are still being tricked into forced-labour situations by job syndicates in Cambodia despite years of warning.
In a written reply to Padang Serai MP Datuk Azman Nasrudin, the ministry said Malaysians were still being deceived into travelling abroad by syndicates offering fake employment.
The five factors the ministry provided were:
1. Enticing pay for easy work
Many are drawn to purported job offers that promise lucrative monthly salaries of US$1,000 to US$3,000 (over RM4,000 to over RM12,000) for supposedly easy roles such as customer service officer, investment officer, or call centre operator.
Those facing financial pressures, the ministry said, find these offers especially tempting and difficult to resist.
2. Low awareness of the syndicates’ changing tactics
Despite numerous reports on such scams, many Malaysians believe the networks have been dismantled or fail to keep up with their evolving strategies, which include using new company names, targeting different countries, and recruiting through social media.
3. Local involvement worsens the problem
The ministry noted that most victims were deceived by fellow Malaysians acting as recruitment agents, with potential victims more likely to trust offers made by people from their own community.
4. Failure to perform due diligence
Many victims failed to conduct basic background checks before accepting overseas job offers.
Some were fooled by fake documents, including counterfeit visas that appeared authentic, and did not verify the legitimacy of the offer with the Foreign Ministry or Human Resources Ministry.
5. Economic pressures and desperation
Unemployment make young people, fresh graduates, and retrenched workers especially susceptible to exploitation.
Scam syndicates exploit this desperation by offering to handle all arrangements, including flight tickets and visa applications.
Apart from providing these five factors, the Home Ministry also confirmed that the Anti-Trafficking in Persons and Anti-Smuggling of Migrants Act 2007 can be used to prosecute syndicates involved in such cases.
The law applies even when the trafficking occurs overseas, as long as Malaysia is the place where the exploitation began, served as a transit point, or was the intended destination.
Source: malaymail.com
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2025/10/17/home-ministry-explains-how-scam-syndicates-still-lure-malaysians-into-modern-slavery/194928
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Arab World
Saudi Arabia reaffirms safety efforts on World Food Day
October 16, 2025
RIYADH: The Kingdom marked World Food Day on Oct. 16 by the Saudi Ministry of Municipalities and Housing reaffirming its commitment to enhancing food safety and improving health supervision of eating establishments across the country, in alignment with Saudi Vision 2030.
To advance digital transformation and regulatory efficiency, the ministry has implemented a digital health certificate system for workers in food-related sectors and public health activities — issuing over 1.2 million health certificates in 2024 — and updated the requirements manual to simplify processes.
The ministry has also coordinated with the Ministry of Health to unify medical examinations for residency permits and expatriate health certificates, launching a joint initiative with the Human Resources Development Fund to support Saudi workers.
The government is enhancing field monitoring by increasing inspections and regulatory tours to improve food safety compliance.
In addition, updated requirements for food sectors have been implemented to enhance public health and hygiene standards.
A revised penalties schedule for food violations ensures fairness and compliance, supported by effective supervisory and legislative mechanisms to promote a safe food environment.
Source: arabnews.com
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https://www.arabnews.com/node/2619121/saudi-arabia
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KSrelief, Reef Saudi to advance sustainable agriculture
October 16, 2025
RIYADH: Dr. Abdullah Al Rabeeah, supervisor-general of the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center, and Mansour Al-Mushaiti, deputy minister of environment, water and agriculture, attended the signing of an agreement between KSrelief and the Sustainable Agricultural Rural Development Program, also known as Reef Saudi.
According to a Saudi Press Agency report, the agreement aims to strengthen collaboration in sustainable agricultural development and humanitarian and relief efforts.
The two sides will work to unify efforts in knowledge transfer, localize agricultural technologies, and promote sustainable farming practices.
The cooperation includes joint scientific research, capacity building, and the qualification of specialized personnel.
The deal provides for the formation of a joint working team to oversee implementation, develop detailed action plans, and establish monitoring and evaluation mechanisms for joint programs and projects.
The goal is to maximize developmental impact and optimize the use of national expertise.
Source: arabnews.com
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https://www.arabnews.com/node/2619117/saudi-arabia
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US college fair draws crowds of students in Saudi Arabia looking to study abroad
Lama Alhamawi
October 16, 2025
RIYADH: Students flocked to the EducationUSA college fair this week as it made its way across Saudi Arabia in a tour that began in Jeddah on Sunday before moving to Riyadh on Wednesday and Dhahran on Saturday.
With more than 80 US universities exhibiting in Jeddah, Riyadh and Dhahran, the event offers students resources and direct access to university representatives to answer questions about studying abroad.
The fair drew hundreds of students excited to learn about higher education opportunities, including Kholoud Al-Saygh, a senior medical student in Riyadh who previously studied abroad in the US for an exchange semester in Kansas.
“The US has inspired me since I was growing up, and it’s an amazing country,” Al-Saygh told Arab News.
“My whole family studied there, my dad studied in Seattle, and he always talked fondly of Seattle, and I loved it,” she said.
“I wanted to have a similar experience. So I did find this UGRAD program, and I applied for it. It’s one semester, and it was more than I could ever imagine or hope for. It was amazing,” she said.
Al-Saygh said that after graduation, her next step would be pursuing residency programs to specialize in medicine at US universities.
The University of Utah’s highly ranked gaming program was a major draw, attracting Saudi students keen on developing skills that align with the country’s Vision 2030 national gaming and e-sports strategy.
University of Utah senior international officer Randy McCrillis highlighted the interest that he had witnessed from Saudi students looking to study gaming.
“We are the number one gaming program in the US, both at the undergrad and grad level. And the reason why is that we teach gaming in a different format.
“We actually teach the game, the whole environment.”
Leveraging its multifaceted approach to gaming education, the University of Utah drew significant interest, with many students expressing interest at the undergraduate and graduate levels.
Arizona State University’s presence at the fair also drew a large crowd of Saudi students.
According to Nayara Dixon, assistant director, international recruitment initiatives for ASU, the university currently hosts 500 enrolled Saudi students, ranking it alongside the University of Michigan as one of the highest-enrolling US institutions for Saudis.
“The experience has been great … students show very good excitement to study at American universities,” Dixon told Arab News.
“Students had great questions, they’re very curious about studying in the US and learning about life in Arizona, so my experience has been nothing but positive,” she said. “The demand has been high.”
The 80 universities present at the fair included the University of Idaho, the University of Denver, St. John’s University, the Dave School, the University of Colorado Boulder, the University of Mary Washington, and many more.
Source: arabnews.com
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://www.arabnews.com/node/2619095/saudi-arabia
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Horror Con 2025 begins in Jeddah
SALEH FAREED
October 16, 2025
JEDDAH: Horror Con 2025 began in Jeddah on Wednesday, bringing together horror fans of all ages until Nov. 5
The region’s biggest horror festival will entertain visitors with haunted house experiences, interactive horror-themed games and attractions designed to challenge thrillseekers, according to organizers.
Visitors can expect to explore haunted houses, terrifying mazes and activities designed to test the nerves, as well as live stage performances.
Fans gathered at the opening with large crowds on day one.
Mahmoud Al-Buadani, 29, who attended with friend Adnan Shaker, told Arab News just before entering the Horror Con venue that they were looking forward to the surprises on offer.
“We realized as we came that we are the first to come and attend this unique event. I attended the Horror Con in Bahrain and hope this one is as interesting as what I witnessed in Bahrain,” he said.
Shaker, who is a horror movie fanatic, added: “We are looking forward to experiencing the thrilling fright zones.”
Among those who turned out for the Horror Con attraction on Wednesday was Abdulrahman Al-Tamimi, who attended with his two sons.
Al-Tamimi said: “We thought to come during the opening day before it gets crowded. We just experienced, firstly, the horror hospital and it was fun; we expected scary things inside but for us it was average. We hope to see more (terrifying) zones.”
Eight haunted houses are spread across Jeddah Corniche and each one is designed to immerse visitors in different worlds of fear.
The eight experiences at Horror Con are: Escape, Field Maze, Horror Hospital, Qaid Station, Qalat Wadrean, The Clown, The Dead Zone and The Farm.
Beyond the scares, Horror Con also offers horror-themed food and beverages.
Source: arabnews.com
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https://www.arabnews.com/node/2619090/saudi-arabia
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North America
New York Muslim, Allied Groups Call on Congressional Delegation to Condemn Racist, Anti-Muslim Attacks on Mamdani
October 16, 2025
Groups Call on Lawmakers to Confront Rising Islamophobia, Anti-Black Racism, and Anti-Palestinian Hate in Congress
Today the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), its New York chapter (CAIR-NY), and a diverse coalition of allied mosques, community groups, and advocacy organizations representing more than one million American Muslims across the state released a joint letter calling on New York’s U.S. Congressional Delegation to confront the growing wave of Islamophobia, anti-Black racism, and anti-Palestinian hate in Congress.
Organizations participating in the letter included: The Bangladeshi American Advocacy Group (BAAG); CAIR; CAIR-New York; Emgage Action NY Metro; Desis Rising Up & Moving (DRUM); ICNA New York; Islamic Center of Five Towns; MALIKAH; Muslim American Society of New York; Muslim Community of Nassau County (MCNC); Muslim Community Network (MCN); New York Muslim Action Network (NYMAN); Our Common Beliefs; Palestinian American Bar Association; Rockaway Islamic Center; Syosset Muslim Community; and Taxpayers Against Genocide.
The letter is addressed to all members of the New York Congressional Delegation: U.S. Senators Chuck Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand; U.S. Representatives Yvette Clarke, Adriano Espaillat, Andrew Garbarino, Laura Gillen, Dan Goldman, Hakeem Jeffries, Tim Kennedy, Nick LaLota, Nick Langworthy, George Latimer, Mike Lawler, Nicole Malliotakis, John Mannion, Gregory Meeks, Grace Meng, Joe Morelle, Jerry Nadler, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Josh Riley, Pat Ryan, Elise Stefanik, Tom Suozzi, Claudia Tenney, Paul Tonko, Ritchie Torres, and Nydia Velázquez.
The letter urges lawmakers of both parties to demonstrate moral leadership by publicly condemning Florida Congressman Randy Fine’s racist and Islamophobic attack on New York State Assemblymember Zohran Mamdani. It further calls on the delegation to defend Muslim and Black lawmakers targeted by hate and to reject the broader revival of anti-Muslim conspiracy theories and legislation that seek to silence dissent and restrict advocacy for Palestinian human rights.
Fine’s comments, calling Assemblymember Mamdani “a Muslim terrorist,” questioning his citizenship, and referring to Uganda as a “shit**le,” are described as unmistakably Islamophobic, anti-Black, and xenophobic. The coalition says such rhetoric reflects a broader normalization of hate in Congress, where several lawmakers have used bigoted stereotypes and pushed unconstitutional measures such as the so-called “Preserving a Sharia-Free America Act.”
The organizations also warn that Islamophobic narratives are being weaponized to distract from growing international outrage over Israel’s genocide in Gaza and to suppress legitimate advocacy for Palestinian human rights.
Key Points from the Letter
Condemn Hate Speech: Urges New York’s congressional delegation to publicly condemn Rep. Fine’s racist, Islamophobic, and anti-Black remarks against Assemblymember Mamdani.
Defend Targeted Lawmakers: Calls on lawmakers to stand with Muslim and Black elected officials who face harassment or discrimination.
Reject Islamophobia in Policy: Opposes legislation and hearings that stigmatize Muslims or restrict constitutionally protected advocacy.
Affirm Moral Leadership: Reminds the delegation that New York’s Muslim community – roughly one million residents – plays a vital role in the state’s civic, economic, and public life.
“Picture the outrage if members of Congress introduced legislation to ban the practice of Catholic Canon or Jewish Halacha,” the letter states. “That is exactly what some lawmakers are now proposing against Muslims—singling out our faith’s moral and spiritual framework for exclusion.”
Co-signing groups concluded the letter by reminding and affirming that for generations, New York’s congressional delegation has served as a moral compass for the nation. “That tradition must continue. The safety, dignity, and constitutional rights of your Muslim constituents depend on it.”
Source: cair.com
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://www.cair.com/press_releases/new-york-muslim-allied-groups-call-on-congressional-delegation-to-condemn-racist-anti-muslim-attacks-on-mamdani-by-randy-fine-others/
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Five takeaways from NYC mayoral debate as Mamdani and Cuomo clash
Kayla Epstein
October 17, 2025
The three leading candidates for New York City mayor took the stage at Rockefeller Center in Manhattan on Thursday to make a case to lead America's biggest city.
Early voting in the race is set to begin next week, and the most recent polling suggests Zohran Mamdani has widened his lead to 46%, while Andrew Cuomo stands at 33%.
The outcome of the race could have political implications beyond the Empire State as President Donald Trump looms large, and whoever wins will likely face pressure from Washington in some form.
The Democratic Party nationally is likely watching to see if the America's biggest Democratic stronghold chooses an establishment, centrist figure in Cuomo - who is running as an independent - or the progressive Mamdani.
The winner could help determine the kind of candidate and platform Democrats choose in the future following their staggering 2024 loss to Trump.
Republicans also will watch to see if their candidate, Curtis Sliwa, continues to make inroads with his public safety platform.
Here are five big takeaways from tonight's debate.
Mamdani pressed on views on Palestinians
Mamdani's past statements on Israel and Palestinians came up several times during the night in both questions from moderators and opponents' criticisms.
The candidate has stressed his support for Palestinians and statehood, and has criticised Israel's military operation in Gaza.
He also was criticised for declining to condemn the phrase "globalise the intifada" when probed by interviewers. Many Jews argue this slogan is an antisemitic call for violence, but pro-Palestinian activists say it is a call for international solidarity with Palestinians.
Mamdani said he would seek to serve as a mayor for all New Yorkers, including its large and ideologically diverse Jewish population.
Cuomo attacked Mamdani for his views, calling the New York state assemblyman a "divisive personality across the board".
The fourth man: Donald Trump
There were three candidates at tonight's debate but a fourth name kept coming up: Donald Trump.
The president has implied he wants to send the National Guard into cities controlled by Democrats and has moved to withhold government funds for infrastructure projects in New York City.
Trump has also prioritised the city for his mass deportation policy, and the mayor — who has little power over federal immigration enforcement — will likely have to weigh the city's response.
Sliwa, the Republican, noted that the mayor would need to get along with Trump regardless of political views. But Mamdani made his opposition to the president explicit from his very first response, promising to "take on Trump."
Cuomo, meanwhile, positioned himself as the only candidate experienced enough to deal with the current White House, warning "it will be Mayor Trump" if Mamdani is elected.
"I fought Donald Trump," he told voters. "When I'm fighting for New York, I am not going to stop."
Affordability front and centre
As large as Trump looms, the biggest policy issue around this mayoral election is affordability. New Yorkers face high costs of living on everything - especially rent and groceries.
In his opening statement, Sliwa acknowledged the "really serious issues of affordability" facing the city. He called for the next mayor to free up vacant apartments in NYCHA - New York's public housing programme — and allow people to move in.
The moderators directly asked each candidate how much they paid for rent, groceries and whether they paid off credit card debt monthly.
The candidates pitched a volley of proposals to tackle the cost of living, including Mamdani's plan to make buses free and Cuomo's proposal to place income limits on people who resided in rent-stabilised apartments.
Cuomo criticised Mamdani for living in a rent-stabilised apartment -a form of affordable housing - even though his parents are wealthy (his mother is the filmmaker Mira Nair).
Cuomo also opposed Mamdani's proposed rent freeze on stabilised apartments, saying it would only postpone future increases, force building owners into bankruptcy, and fail New Yorkers who don't live in rent-stabilised apartments.
"If you think that the problem in this city is that my rent is too low, vote for him," Mamdani said in response. "If you know the problem in this city is that your rent is too high, vote for me."
Cuomo's controversies still loom
Cuomo touted his decades of experience in office, rising from federal housing secretary during President Bill Clinton's administration to New York governor.
However, controversies surrounding his governorship have shadowed his campaign. He resigned as governor in 2021 after an investigation by the state attorney general found he had sexually harassed 11 women. Cuomo apologised for acting "in a way that made people feel uncomfortable" but denied allegations.
The New York attorney general also investigated his administration for undercounting nursing home deaths during the Covid-19 pandemic, finding he understated the actual number of deaths.
Mamdani attacked Cuomo on these matters, accusing him of "sending seniors to their death in nursing homes," and accused him of lacking integrity.
Cuomo said the allegations about harming seniors in nursing homes were "totally false."
"During Covid, everyone did whatever they could in this state, and there have been numerous investigations where they've gone through it, and they said we followed federal guidance," Cuomo said. "But yes, people died during Covid. And my heart breaks for everyone that broken, that died in this state and across this nation."
Sliwa, too, attacked Cuomo for the "lawsuits filed against you for sexual harassment." The former governor rebutted that the case brought by New York State Attorney General Letitia James, who investigated the misconduct claims, "was political."
Curtis Sliwa makes his mark
Sliwa held his own as the only Republican on stage.
His voting bloc might be in the minority in New York City, but the 2024 presidential election revealed that residents prioritise public safety issues and Sliwa hammered that repeatedly. As the founder of the Guardian Angels, a New York City organization devoted to crime prevention, he seized the opportunity to connect with voters.
The longtime New York media and political personality knew how to make himself heard. He frequently interjected, telling moderators he wanted to speak, and elbowing his way into the debate's most heated moments. From centre stage, he took swings at both opponents in equal measure.
He felt confident after the debate, saying his night went "extraordinarily well" and likening his opponents to "two kids in the schoolyard.
Source: bbc.com
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cn8xlx53jn6o
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Former Trump adviser John Bolton criminally indicted
October 17, 2025
Ana Faguy
John Bolton, who served as Donald Trump's national security adviser before becoming a vocal critic of the president, has been criminally indicted on federal charges.
The Department of Justice presented a case to a grand jury in Maryland on Thursday, and they agreed there was enough evidence to indict Bolton, who issued a statement maintaining his innocence.
It comes after FBI agents searched Bolton's home and office in August as part of an investigation into the handling of classified information.
The indictment makes Bolton, 76, the third of the US president's political opponents to face charges in recent weeks. He could face decades in prison.
According to a 26-page indictment filed at a court in Greenbelt, Maryland, on Thursday, Bolton is charged with eight counts of transmission of national defence information (NDI) and 10 counts of unlawful retention of NDI.
Prosecutors accuse him of illegally transmitting top secret information about US national defence using his personal email and other messaging apps.
"These documents revealed intelligence about future attacks, foreign adversaries, and foreign-policy relations," the court papers state.
If found guilty, Bolton could face up to 10 years in prison for each charge. He is expected to surrender to authorities on Friday.
"No one is above the law," US Attorney General Pam Bondi said in a statement announcing the charges.
Bolton said in a statement that he looked forward to defending his "lawful conduct" in court as he accused Trump of seeking "retribution against me".
"Now, I have become the latest target in weaponizing the Justice Department to charge those he [Trump] deems to be his enemies with charges that were declined before or distort the facts," Bolton said.
Bolton's lawyer, Abbe Lowell, said the charges stemmed from diary entries kept by his client over his 45-year career in public service.
"Like many public officials throughout history, Amb Bolton kept diaries – that is not a crime," said Mr Lowell.
He described the records as "unclassified, shared only with his immediate family, and known to the FBI as far back as 2021".
According to CNN, Bolton is alleged to have shared the information with his wife and daughter.
The unauthorised information includes "diary-like entries from Bolton's time as the National Security Advisor" and were allegedly "printed and stored" at Bolton's home in Bethesda, Maryland.
Bolton was fired from Trump's first administration in 2019. His 2020 memoir, The Room Where It Happened, recounted his time working under Trump and portrayed him as a president who was ill-informed about geopolitics.
The White House filed a lawsuit to block the book from being published, arguing it contained classified information and had not been properly vetted. A judge denied the request and the book was released days later.
The US Department of Justice then opened an investigation into whether Bolton had mishandled classified information by disclosing certain information in the book.
Asked about the indictment on Thursday at the White House, Trump said he did not know about it, but added that Bolton was "a bad guy".
Bolton, who served as George W Bush's UN ambassador, was among former officials critical of Trump who had their Secret Service protection stripped in January.
He is the third Trump critic to be criminally charged since September.
New York City Attorney General Letitia James was indicted on bank fraud charges in October.
Former FBI director James Comey was charged in late September with lying to Congress.
The cases were filed after Trump urged the US attorney general to prosecute his political opponents.
"We can't delay any longer, it's killing our reputation and credibility," he wrote on social media.
Source: bbc.com
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CIA deployment gives Trump no 'limitations' on Venezuela action
October 17, 2025
Bernd Debusmann Jr
US President Donald Trump has acknowledged that he has authorised the CIA to conduct covert operations in Venezuela - a highly unusual admission of what is normally a highly sensitive and tightly guarded state secret.
The authorisation - more typically known as a presidential finding - could give the agency broad leeway to conduct operations in the region, including lethal strikes against suspected drug traffickers or broader operations aimed at destabilising or toppling the regime of Nicolás Maduro.
Previous presidential findings have ultimately led to drone strikes on militants overseas, money and weapons funnelled to insurgencies, and even efforts at full regime change.
Most, however, remain classified.
According to US law, presidents may authorise covert actions if they determine that these operations are "necessary to support identifiable foreign policy objectives...[and] important to the national security of the United States".
Once that determination is made, it must be shared with the House and Senate intelligence committees, and, in some sensitive cases, the "gang of eight" composed of leaders in both parties and the chairs and ranking members of the intelligence committees.
But that notification - which is expected to be detailed and outline legal risks - does not mean congressional approval is necessary. Congress can only block these operations through legislation, or by cutting funding.
In practice, the authorisation could be as focused - or as broad - as the president deems necessary.
"The parameters of the authorities are laid out in the finding," explained Mick Mulroy, a former CIA paramilitary officer and deputy under secretary of defence. "But there really isn't any limitations, and it does not need congressional approval."
Any restrictions imposed on the CIA's activities are executive orders, which Mr Mulroy said "means the president can simply write a new executive order and change it".
Once approved by the president, CIA actions could take the form of targeted killings, covert influence operations, shaping local politics or helping set up and equip armed rebel movements fighting foreign governments.
In December 1979, for example, a presidential finding from Jimmy Carter allowed the CIA to deliver lethal aid to Afghan guerrillas fighting the Soviet invasion of the country.
Just a few years later, another finding - this time from President Ronald Reagan administration - allowed the CIA to extend covert aid to the Contras, rebel groups that were trying to unseat the leftist Sandinista government in Nicaragua.
More recent findings led to worldwide operations against al-Qaeda after the 9/11 attacks, as well as Operation Timber Sycamore, a CIA-run operation to train and supply Syrian rebels fighting the Assad regime.
In other countries across Latin America - including Guatemala, Chile and Brazil - the US helped overthrow governments in the name of fighting communism, or helped bolster regimes that were harsh oppressors of human rights.
"We just don't have a great track record," said Dexter Ingram, the former director for combating violent extremism at the State Department and now an advisory council member at the International Spy Museum in Washington.
"There's a long history, and it's not always positive," Mr Ingram added. "I think we have to look at our history....it's a slippery slope."
Getty Images Contra soldiers standing in formation and receiving weapons while training in Honduras in 1985.
Marc Polymeropoulos, a 26-year veteran of the CIA who served in both Iraq and Afghanistan and oversaw clandestine missions around the world, told the BBC that the methodology of "find, fix and finish" the agency developed during the "global war on terror" could be readily applied to criminal networks.
"It's going after certain individuals, networks, or supply chains," he said. "It's manhunting, and there's nobody better on the planet at that than the CIA."
The primary difference between striking criminals in Venezuela and striking Al Qaeda or other militant targets in places like Syria, Yemen or tribal areas of Pakistan, he added, is that the latter targets mostly operated in "ungoverned" spaces.
"Conceptually, it would be a little different. Those were really lawless countries," he said. "This would obviously be done without the cooperation of the Venezuelan [government]."
Alternatively - or additionally - sabotage operations could be conducted against targets aligned to Maduro's government, "influence operations" could be used to shift public opinion through media and money, training and weapons could be provided to anti-Maduro groups - all operations with historical precedent for the CIA in Latin America and elsewhere.
"Nobody knows what this [authorisation] is," Mr Polymeropoulos added. "There's a million different questions."
Source: bbc.com
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South Asia
Afghanistan And Pakistan Have Islamic Duty To Work Together For Peace: Iranian President
October 16, 2025
Amid escalating tensions between Afghanistan and Pakistan, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has called on the two neighbouring Muslim nations to resolve their differences through dialogue, emphasizing that, according to the teachings of the Holy Qur’an, Muslim countries are religiously and morally obligated to stand together in pursuit of peace, justice, and development.
Speaking at a gathering in Iran on Wednesday evening, Pezeshkian expressed deep concern over the ongoing conflict between what he described as two “brotherly” and closely linked Islamic countries. He said the situation has caused sorrow not only in Iran but throughout the wider region.
He attributed the discord between Islamic nations to the influence of what he called “enemies of Islam and international Zionism,” accusing them of seeking to divide and weaken the Muslim world. “The enemies of the Islamic ummah have always worked to sow division and instability among Muslim nations,” he added.
Pezeshkian stressed that dialogue and the strengthening of fraternal ties are essential to de-escalating tensions between Afghanistan and Pakistan. “The Islamic Republic of Iran, in accordance with Qur’anic principles, will use all its capacities to ease tensions, encourage dialogue, and reinforce the bonds of brotherhood between these two neighboring and friendly countries.”
Underscoring the urgent need for peace and unity in the region, he concluded: “We are confident that the esteemed governments and peoples of Afghanistan and Pakistan will, with wisdom and foresight, choose the path of mutual understanding and dialogue — and once again embrace friendship, cooperation, and trust.”
Source: ariananews.af
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'Some parties deceiving people in the name of consensus by signing July Charter'
Oct 17, 2025
National Citizen Party (NCP) Convener Nahid Islam today criticised political parties signing the July Charter, saying they were "misleading the public" by portraying it as a national consensus.
Speaking at the launch of an affiliate organisation -- 'Jatiya Sramik Shakti' -- at Eskaton in Dhaka, Nahid said, "Some political parties are deceiving people in the name of national consensus by signing the July Charter."
He argued that a meeting of a few parties cannot be considered national unity. "National unity is when workers and people from various professions come together to work for the country's welfare and fight for their rights. But there is no discussion about the labour commission or the health sector," he said.
Nahid further criticised the formation of what he described as an election-centric six-reform commission, saying, "We could not see any good intention regarding democracy from them."
Calling for broader reforms, he said, "We believe that along with the struggle for democratic transformation, we must also continue the economic transformation. We must break free from the development narrative of the past and place human dignity above all in Bangladesh."
Highlighting the role of workers, Nahid added, "Jatiya Sramik Shakti will stand beside those who keep the country's economy running."
Source: thedailystar.net
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Hasina should be sentenced to death 1,400 times: Tajul
Oct 17, 2025
The prosecution yesterday sought the death penalty for deposed prime minister Sheikh Hasina, calling her the "nucleus" behind the crimes committed during the July Uprising and the "lifeblood" of all perpetrators.
Hasina's directives and actions were central to a chain of crimes that left more than 1,400 dead and between 25,000 and 35,000 wounded, said Chief Prosecutor Tajul Islam before the International Crimes Tribunal-1.
"The highest punishment under the International Crimes (Tribunals) Act is death -- Hasina deserves the highest punishment," he told the tribunal, concluding his five-day argument in the crimes against humanity case against Hasina, former home minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal and ex-inspector general of police Chowdhury Abdullah Al-Mamun.
She should face the maximum punishment for every life lost.
"Hasina killed at least 1,400 people -- she deserves to be sentenced to death 1,400 times. Though that is legally impossible, justice will only be served if she is handed the highest punishment."
The chief prosecutor also appealed for the highest punishment for Kamal, leaving the tribunal to decide on Mamun since he has turned approver.
Police members, Chhatra League and Jubo League activists, cabinet members and lawmakers committed the crimes under Hasina's direction, he said.
"They believed that by pleasing Sheikh Hasina, their future would be safe. That made her the centre point of all crimes."
Leaked phone conversations circulating on social media showed Hasina issuing one directive after another to take revenge, Tajul said.
Describing Hasina as a hardened criminal, Tajul said: "After so many killings, injuries and the discovery of numerous Aynaghars where dissidents were confined and killed extrajudicially, she has shown no remorse."
Instead, she repeatedly called for killings, vandalising and torching homes.
"If justice is to be ensured in Bangladesh and such crimes prevented in the future, this nucleus must be dismantled through the legal process. The lifeblood of these atrocities must face punishment," he told the court.
As the supervisory authority over police and Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB), Kamal played a key role in planning and directing the crimes, Tajul said.
He was part of the "gang of four" -- along with Salman F Rahman, Anisul Huq and Obaidul Quader -- and held meetings at his residence to plan the suppression and killing of demonstrators.
He conveyed Hasina's orders to the IGP, deployed police personnel and acted as the commander on the ground.
"Given his central role and active involvement, he deserves no sympathy. Therefore, we have appealed for the highest punishment for him," Tajul said.
On former IGP Mamun, Tajul said the prosecution would not make further submissions since he had turned approver.
"We believe he made a full and truthful disclosure about this case and others, including enforced disappearances."
Tajul also urged the court to order compensation for all victims -- both killed and wounded -- by confiscating the convicts' assets to support affected families.
Over the past five days, the prosecution presented its arguments supported by international and Bangladeshi law, citing precedents from global tribunals.
The crimes were "widespread and systematic" and committed with full knowledge of their consequences, Tajul said.
"The prosecution has shown how the entire state machinery was mobilised to carry out these atrocities. We cited international jurisprudence on command responsibility and joint criminal enterprise. The evidence clearly qualifies these incidents as crimes against humanity," he told journalists after the day's proceedings.
According to him, Hasina's objective was to perpetuate her family's and party's rule until 2041, eliminating all political opposition.
When the anti-quota movement began as a peaceful protest, her government saw it as a threat and launched a brutal crackdown, using helicopters, drones, armoured personnel carriers and lethal weapons.
"To crush a non-violent civilian movement, the state used every force -- police, BGB, Ansar, intelligence agencies, and even the army in limited deployment, though the army did not participate in the killings," Tajul said.
"There are no mitigating factors in her case -- every factor is aggravating. Hasina, from the top of the command structure, personally ordered the killings with a vindictive and vengeful mindset."
The evidence was "as strong as the Himalayas" and "crystal clear", Tajul said, adding that if this evidence is presented before any international court, the highest punishment for each accused will be ensured.
The state defence counsel, representing Hasina and Kamal, will place his argument on Monday.
At the briefing, Tajul said the army, as a patriotic force loved by the people, largely acted responsibly during the July uprising.
"The people of Bangladesh have always admired their army as a patriotic institution. When the army appeared on the streets, people embraced them, offered flowers and saw them as protectors. During the indiscriminate police attacks, the army often stood between the protesters and the police."
The army personnel deployed amid the student protests made efforts to protect the protesters, he said, while citing a case at Mirpur where police opened fire on students and army members intervened and fired blank shots to disperse the police and prevent further killings.
While there may have been isolated incidents, as a force, the army played a significant and restraining role.
Except for the army, the rest of the state apparatus, including the police and intelligence agencies, was used to commit the crimes, he added.
Source: thedailystar.net
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Islami Andolan, Khelafat Majlish decide to sign July Charter
Oct 16, 2025
Seven political parties engaged in the simultaneous movement, including Jamaat-e-Islami and Islami Andolan Bangladesh, decided at a meeting this evening that each party would make its own decision regarding signing the July Charter.
Multiple sources confirmed the development to The Daily Star after the meeting on Thursday night.
Of the seven, Islami Andolan and Khelafat Majlish have decided to sign the July Charter.
Yousuf Ashraf, senior nayeb-e-ameer of Bangladesh Khelafat Majlish, who attended the meeting, told The Daily Star, "We have decided to sign the July Charter. What others will do is up to them."
Echoing the same, Islami Andolan Bangladesh Secretary General Maulana Yunus Ahmed said, "We are going to attend the signing ceremony. We also want the signing process to be completed. However, our movement will continue to press for the legal recognition of the July Charter, protection of the July activists, and a referendum before the next national election."
Repeated calls were made to Jamaat Assistant Secretary General Hamidur Rahman Azad, who was also present at the meeting, but he did not respond.
The signing ceremony of the July Charter is scheduled to be held on Friday at the South Plaza of Jatiya Sangsad, with leaders from more than 30 political parties expected to attend.
Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus said yesterday that reaching a political consensus on the July Charter after long discussions was "making the impossible possible."
Earlier on Tuesday evening, the final version of the July National Charter -- signed by Ali Riaz, vice-chairman of the Consensus Commission -- was sent to a total of 33 political parties and alliances.
Source: thedailystar.net
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Madrasa board fares better than technical
Oct 17, 2025
Amid an overall fall in this year's Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC) and equivalent exam results, the Madrasa Education Board has performed far better than the Technical Education Board, topping all education boards with a strong pass rate.
The Madrasa Board recorded a 75.61 percent pass rate, leading the national charts. Female students performed slightly better than their male counterparts, with 77.01 percent passing compared to 74.43 percent of males.
A total of 4,268 students under the board achieved GPA-5, including 2,295 males and 1,673 females.
In stark contrast, the Technical Education Board saw a steep decline in performance.
Its pass rate fell to 62.67 percent from last year's 88.09 percent, while the number of GPA-5 achievers dropped sharply to 1,610 from 4,922.
Of the GPA-5 holders this year, 1,213 are female and 397 are male.
A total of 12,51,111 students -- 6,18,015 were male and 6,33,096 female -- registered for the exams under 11 education boards. However, nearly 27,000 students did not appear in the exams.
Source: thedailystar.net
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Iran to issue 200,000 work visas to Afghan nationals
October 17, 2025
Iran has announced plans to issue 200,000 work visas to Afghan nationals, officials confirmed following a meeting between Mohammad Reza Bahrami, Head of South Asia Affairs at Iran’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and Mawlawi Abdul Kabir, Afghanistan’s Minister of Refugees and Repatriation.
Bahrami highlighted that trade relations between Kabul and Tehran have made significant progress, and he expects that high-ranking Iranian officials will soon visit Kabul to further strengthen joint cooperation and commercial ties. He added that Iran has honored its commitments toward Afghan refugees and emphasized that collaboration with Kabul will continue to address the issue of illegal Afghan residency in Iran.
He also expressed concern over recent tensions between Afghanistan and Pakistan, noting that Iran is prepared to act as a mediator between Kabul and Islamabad, pending the approval of the Islamic Emirate.
Mawlawi Abdul Kabir welcomed the move, stressing that Iran should treat Afghan refugees with leniency and prevent the loss of their assets. He reiterated that the Islamic Emirate encourages Afghan refugees abroad to return home and urged host countries not to forcibly deport Afghan nationals. Abdul Kabir described Iran’s issuance of work visas as a significant step and confirmed that the Islamic Emirate will submit a plan to Tehran to address the concerns of Afghan residents in Iran.
He further emphasized that using Afghan territory against others is not a policy of the Islamic Emirate and called on neighboring countries to resolve disputes through dialogue and collaboration with religious scholars rather than accusations.
Source: ariananews.af
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Kabul, Beijing Discuss Bilateral Ties
October 16, 2025
KABUL: Mohammad Naeem, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs for Finance and Administration, met with Zhao Xing, Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Kabul, to discuss strengthening bilateral relations.
Naeem described China-Afghanistan ties as deep and historic and expressed appreciation for China’s continued support.
“If the rights and values of the Afghan people are violated, they reserve the full right to defend themselves,” the statement quoted him as saying.
Ambassador Zhao reaffirmed that issues should be resolved through dialogue and mutual understanding, not conflict.
Both sides stressed the importance of strengthening relations and pursuing ongoing cooperation.
Source: thekabultimes.com/
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Mideast
How Iraq is reclaiming its ancient heritage to become a cultural tourism destination
Jonathan Gornall
October 16, 2025
LONDON: Iraq’s recent history of conflict, insurgency, and political upheaval has done little to bolster the country’s image as a must-visit holiday destination.
Yet, in just a few short years, the “cradle of civilization” and birthplace of agriculture, writing, and the world’s first great cities, has emerged as a credible choice for heritage tourism.
It is a role Iraq has not enjoyed since the early 20th century, when Western archaeologists swarmed the sites of Mesopotamia and well-to-do Europeans rode the Orient Express on their way to Baghdad, Babylon, and the ancient cities of Ur, Nimrud, and Nineveh.
Iraq’s economy has long been highly dependent on fossil fuels, thanks to its vast reserves of oil and gas. In 2023, it was second only to Saudi Arabia in the production of crude oil.
But, like Saudi Arabia, which under the Vision 2030 reform program is building a heritage-based tourism industry to help diversify its economy, Iraq knows it must also develop its cultural assets as an alternative source of income.
There are other benefits, as well.
“Tourism is more than just an economic sector,” said Abdul Latif Rashid, Iraq’s president, at a ceremony in February to celebrate the naming of Baghdad as Arab Tourism Capital for 2025 by the Arab Tourism Organization.
“It fosters understanding and cooperation between peoples and cultures.”
Something is definitely happening. Figures released earlier this month by University of Basra economist Nabil Al-Marsoumi showed that Iraq’s tourism revenue jumped 25 percent to $5.7 billion in 2024, up from $4.6 billion in 2023.
Although much of this was driven by religious tourism, many visitors were drawn to sites connected to Iraq’s cultural heritage.
This comes as no surprise to Benedicte de Montlaur, CEO of the international World Monuments Fund, which has been working with the Iraqi State Board of Antiquities and Heritage on the restoration of several key sites in the country.
“Iraq’s cultural heritage is among the richest in the world,” she said. “This is where some of humanity’s earliest cities, writing systems, and laws were born.”
Building a wide-reaching cultural tourism industry will take time, she added, “but the potential is enormous.”
Over the past several years, the WMF has been working with local and international partners, “laying the groundwork for responsible, community-based tourism that protects heritage while creating opportunity.”
The inscription of Babylon on UNESCO’s World Heritage List in 2019, she said, “was an important milestone, signaling Iraq’s reemergence as a cultural destination and a renewed global interest in its extraordinary history.”
The internal cultural tourism industry in Iraq is already thriving, said Roger Matthews. As a professor of near eastern archaeology at the University of Reading, he regularly visits the north of Iraq.
“It’s definitely not too early to be talking about Iraq as a destination for cultural tourism,” he said.
“At the moment, most tourism in Iraq is by Iraqis, in particular Iraqis from the south spending time in the north, in the Kurdistan region, especially in the hot summer months.
“They stay in hotels, they go to archaeological heritage sites and sites of natural beauty, and there are some very good Iraqi cultural tour companies.
“But there are increasing numbers of foreigners visiting and of course they want to see the key sites, Babylon and so on, as well as the museums.”
Matthews, who has directed major archaeological digs and surveys in the Middle East over the past 40 years, is also president of RASHID International — an acronym for Research, Assessment and Safeguarding the Heritage of Iraq in Danger. Or, rather, he was until very recently.
A multinational group of academics, professionals and others with an interest in cultural heritage, the organization was set up over a decade ago to help protect, preserve, and raise awareness of Iraq’s cultural heritage.
It is, he said, now closing down — and that is a good thing, as it reflected a huge international swell of interest in preserving Iraq’s heritage and developing its potential.
“We actually recently decided to dissolve RASHID because we’ve come to a natural stopping point, because there are now so many multinational archaeological teams and projects working in Iraq,” he said.
Developing the infrastructure to welcome cultural visitors “will take steady progress, but important steps are being made,” said de Montlaur.
“Iraqi authorities, UNESCO, and many international organizations are working together to improve conservation facilities, training programs, and site management practices.
“As part of our work in Iraq, the World Monuments Fund’s role is to assist local communities and authorities in creating the conditions that make tourism possible.
“That means stabilizing historic structures, supporting local craftspeople, and ensuring that communities have the skills to care for their heritage. Preservation comes first.
“Only once a site is safe and well cared for can it truly be shared with the public in a sustainable way.”
Years of war and neglect have taken their toll on Iraq’s heritage treasures.
In 2003, a US military base was set up in the very heart of Babylon, the capital city of two of history’s most famous ancient kings, Hammurabi and Nebuchadnezzar.
As a report by the International Coordination Committee for the Safeguarding of the Cultural Heritage of Iraq later concluded: “The use of Babylon as a military base was a grave encroachment on this internationally known archaeological site.
“During their presence in Babylon, the multinational force and contractors employed by them caused major damage to the city by digging, cutting, scraping, and leveling.
“Key structures that were damaged include the Ishtar Gate and the Processional Way.”
Between 2014 and 2017, Daesh wrought major damage in and around Mosul, bulldozing sections of the walls of Nineveh, smashing Assyrian artifacts and statues in the city museum and blowing up the 12th-century Al-Nouri Mosque, which has since been restored.
Nevertheless, many sites in Iraq still have the power to inspire awe. The partially restored Bronze Age Ziggurat of Ur, located near the modern city of Al-Nasiriyyah in Dhi Qar Province, southern Iraq, is one of the most evocative surviving structures from ancient history.
“Iraq’s heritage may not resemble the pyramids or Petra, but its sites hold equal importance in the story of human civilization,” said de Montlaur.
“Babylon, Hatra, Ur, and the great Assyrian capitals of Nineveh and Nimrud offer insight into the origins of cities, writing, and art.
“The Mosul Cultural Museum, which we are helping to restore alongside Iraqi and international partners such as ALIPH, the Smithsonian Institute, and the Louvre, will soon reopen in 2026 as a place of pride and learning for the people of Mosul and for visitors from around the world.”
She added: “As stability continues to return, these sites can form the heart of a cultural tourism network that celebrates both Iraq’s ancient history and its ongoing recovery.”
Source: arabnews.com
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US denies claims Hamas violating ceasefire over hostage returns
October 16, 2025
LONDON: The US has denied claims that Hamas is violating its ceasefire deal with Israel by failing to return all dead hostages, the BBC reported on Thursday.
Hamas has returned nine of the 28 bodies of dead hostages it holds, and said the remaining corpses are buried deep under rubble, requiring specialized equipment to extract.
Two senior advisers to US President Donald Trump said plans to demilitarize Gaza and install a transitional government remain underway despite the delay. They told reporters that the US government does not believe Hamas is violating the ceasefire.
Israel, responding to the delayed handover of the hostage bodies, limited pledged aid supplies to Gaza.
The level of destruction in the Palestinian enclave means that the recovery of all slain hostages could take weeks, one of the US advisers told the media.
Under the terms of the first phase of the US-brokered ceasefire, Hamas is required to return the remains of all 28 dead hostages.
The group’s armed wing said: “The remaining bodies require significant efforts and specialized equipment to search for and retrieve, and we are making a great effort to close this file.”
Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz on Wednesday said the country’s military should be prepared to act if Hamas refuses to implement the deal.
Israel has agreed to exchange the bodies of 15 slain Palestinians for every dead Israeli hostage.
Source: arabnews.com
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Israel, Hamas trade blame over truce violations, Rafah border reopening eyed but no date set
October 16, 2025
CAIRO/TEL AVIV: Israel said on Thursday it was preparing for the reopening of Gaza’s Rafah crossing with Egypt to let Palestinians in and out, but set no date as it traded blame with Hamas over violations of a US-mediated ceasefire.
A dispute over the return of hostages’ bodies held by Hamas threatens to derail the truce and other unresolved elements of the plan, including disarmament of militants and Gaza’s future governance.
Israeli government spokesperson Shosh Bedrosian told reporters Israel remained committed to the agreement and continued to uphold its obligations, demanding Hamas return the bodies of the 19 deceased hostages it had not handed over.
The Islamist faction has handed over 10 bodies but Israel said one was not that of a hostage. The militant group says it has handed over all bodies it could recover.
The armed wing of Hamas said the handover of more bodies in Gaza, reduced to vast tracts of rubble by the war, would require the admission of heavy machinery and excavating equipment into the Israel-blockaded Palestinian enclave.
On Thursday, a senior Hamas official accused Israel of flouting the ceasefire by killing at least 24 people in shootings since Friday, and said a list of such violations was handed over to mediators.
“The occupying state is working day and night to undermine the agreement through its violations on the ground,” he said.
The Israeli military did not immediately respond. It has previously said some Palestinians have ignored warnings not to approach Israeli ceasefire positions and troops “opened fire to remove the threat.”
Later on Thursday, local health authorities said an Israeli airstrike in Khan Younis in southern Gaza killed two people. The Israeli military said its forces fired at several individuals who emerged from a tunnel shaft and approached troops, describing them as posing an immediate threat.
Israel has said the next phase of the 20-point plan to end the war, a blueprint engineered by US President Donald Trump’s administration, calls for Hamas to relinquish its weapons and cede power, which it has so far refused to do.
Hamas has instead launched a security crackdown in urban areas vacated by Israeli forces, demonstrating its power through public executions and clashes with local armed clans.
Twenty remaining living hostages were freed on Monday in exchange for thousands of Palestinians jailed in Israel.
The Gaza health ministry said on Thursday Israel had released 30 bodies of Palestinians killed during the conflict, taking the number of bodies it has received since Monday to 120. Longer-term elements of Trump’s plan, including the make-up of an international “stabilization force” for the densely populated territory and moves toward creating a Palestinian state — rejected by Israel — have yet to be hashed out.
Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammad Mustafa said on Thursday the Western-backed Palestinian Authority (PA) would work with international institutions and partners to address Gaza’s security, logistical, financial and governance challenges.
An upcoming conference in Egypt on Gaza’s reconstruction would need to clarify how donor funds are organized, who would receive them and how they would be disbursed, he told reporters.
Hamas ejected the PA from Gaza in a brief civil war in 2007.
MASSIVE INCREASE IN AID NEEDED
In a statement on Thursday, Israel’s military aid agency COGAT said coordination was under way with Egypt to set a date for reopening the Rafah crossing for movement of people after completing the necessary preparations.
COGAT said the Rafah crossing would not open for aid as this was not stipulated by the truce deal at any stage, rather all humanitarian goods bound for Gaza would pass through Israeli-controlled Kerem Shalom after undergoing security inspections. Italian news agency ANSA quoted Israel’s Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar as saying Rafah will probably be reopened on Sunday.
With famine conditions present in parts of Gaza, UN Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs Tom Fletcher told Reuters in an interview on Wednesday that thousands of aid vehicles would now have to enter Gaza weekly to ease the crisis. Aid trucks rolled into Gaza on Wednesday and Israel said 600 had been approved to go in under the truce pact. Fletcher called that a “good base” but nowhere near enough, with medical care also scarce and most of the 2.2 million population homeless. On Thursday UNICEF said that in recent days it brought in 250 pallets of supplies including family tents, winter clothes, tarpaulins, sanitary pads and hygiene kits. It has also distributed more than 56,000 packs of baby food to help 12,500 children for two weeks, UNICEF spokesperson Tess Ingram said.
Ismail Al-Thawabta, head of the Hamas-run Gaza media office, said the aid that had entered since the fighting subsided was a “drop in the ocean.”
“The region urgently requires a large, continuous and organized inflow of aid, fuel, cooking gas, and relief and medical supplies,” he told Reuters.
Much of the heavily urbanized enclave has been rendered a wasteland by Israeli bombardments and airstrikes that have killed nearly 68,000 Palestinians, according to Gaza health authorities.
The war was triggered by Hamas’ October 7, 2023, attack on southern Israel in which some 1,200 people were killed and 251 taken hostage back to Gaza, according to Israeli tallies.
Source: arabnews.com
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Israel hands 30 Palestinian bodies to Red Cross in Gaza
October 16, 2025
LONDON: Palestinian medical authorities in Gaza received the bodies of 30 people who were held by Israel and handed over on Thursday through the International Committee of the Red Cross.
Since the US-brokered ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas last week, the bodies of 120 Palestinians have been handed over by Israel, according to Wafa news agency.
Hamas returned two more bodies of hostages to Israel overnight, increasing the total to nine out of 28 released. According to the terms of the ceasefire, for every slain hostage held by Hamas, Israel will return the bodies of 15 Palestinians.
Palestinian forensic teams said that some bodies showed signs of abuse, including beatings, handcuffing and blindfolding. Families have confirmed the identities of four victims, while others await the completion of examinations and documentation before handover.
On Thursday, medical sources reported to Wafa that 29 bodies, including 22 recovered from rubble and 10 with injuries, were taken to hospitals in Gaza over the past 24 hours.
Despite a ceasefire in Gaza going into effect on Friday, the death toll has continued to rise, totaling 67,967 people. The number is likely incomplete, as many victims remain trapped under rubble and inaccessible to ambulance and rescue crews, Wafa reported.
Source: arabnews.com
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UN rejects Houthi espionage allegations as ‘disturbing’ and dangerous, urges release of detained staff
Ephrem Kossaify
October 17, 2025
NEW YORK: The United Nations has on Thursday rejected accusations by Yemen's Houthi authorities that UN staff were involved in espionage, calling the claims "extremely disturbing" and warning they put lives at risk.
“We categorically reject any and all accusations that UN personnel or UN operations in Yemen were involved in any form of espionage or in any activities that were not consistent with our humanitarian mandate,” said Stéphane Dujarric, spokesperson for UN Secretary-General António Guterres.
“Accusations, calling UN staff spies or, as we’ve seen in other contexts, calling them terrorists — all that does is it puts the lives of UN staff everywhere at risk, and it's unacceptable.”
Dujarric's comments came in response to a wave of detentions by Houthi authorities targeting UN and NGO workers in Yemen. At least 53 UN staff members remain arbitrarily detained, some held incommunicado for years, according to the UN.
The Houthi rebels have in recent weeks accused the UN of spying for the United States and Israel, exhibiting political bias, and failing to condemn Israeli military actions. These allegations emerged after an Israeli airstrike in September killed several senior Houthi officials in Sanaa.
Following the strike, Houthi officials claimed that some of the detained UN employees were engaged in espionage, and that diplomatic immunity “should not be a cover” for such activities.
In a statement from its Houthi-run foreign ministry, the group claimed the UN’s silence on the Israeli attack demonstrated “double standards” and alleged complicity.
Dujarric pushed back strongly against those narratives, insisting the UN’s presence in Yemen was solely humanitarian. “The work that we do in Yemen and we do everywhere where we do humanitarian work is guided by our basic principles of humanity, impartiality, neutrality and independence,” he said. “The reason our humanitarian colleagues are in Yemen is to help the Yemeni people.”
The UN has repeatedly condemned the detentions and raids on its premises in Houthi-held areas, and Secretary-General Guterres has called for the immediate and unconditional release of all UN personnel, NGO workers, and detained diplomatic staff. Human Rights Watch has also criticized the arrests, stating that no credible evidence has been presented to support the espionage allegations, and warning that such actions are obstructing critical aid operations in the war-torn country.
The Houthis’ accusations have drawn wider scrutiny of their treatment of aid workers and engagement with international agencies. In September, they accused UN Special Envoy Hans Grundberg of “political complicity” for condemning the detentions while allegedly ignoring what they termed Israeli “aggression” in Yemen.
Despite the criticism, the UN maintains that its operations remain grounded in neutrality. “We will continue to call for the end to the arbitrary detention of our colleagues,” Dujarric said. “They need to be released, alongside the NGO workers and those from diplomatic missions.”
Yemen’s conflict, which escalated in 2015 after the Houthis seized the capital Sanaa, has triggered one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises. UN-led efforts to broker peace have repeatedly stalled amid growing regional instability.
Source: arabnews.com
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Lebanon says Israeli strikes kill one and wound seven
October 17, 2025
BEIRUT, Lebanon: Lebanon’s health ministry said Thursday that Israeli strikes in the south had killed one person and wounded seven, while the Israeli military said it had targeted Hezbollah and its allies.
Lebanese President Joseph Aoun, however, insisted Israel’s strikes targeted “civilian facilities,” condemning what he said was a breach of a ceasefire negotiated last year.
“The repeated Israeli aggression comes as part of a systematic policy aimed at destroying productive infrastructure, hindering economic recovery, and undermining national stability under false security pretexts,” Aoun said.
Israel has repeatedly bombed Lebanon despite a November ceasefire, which followed more than a year of hostilities with the Iran-backed militant group that culminated in two months of open war.
The Lebanese health ministry, which earlier said six people had been wounded, said one person was killed in a strike in the eastern town of Shmistar.
One person was wounded in Bnaafoul, in the Saida district and six in Ansar, in Nabatieh district, it added.
An Israeli army statement said it had “struck Hezbollah terrorist infrastructure... in the Mazraat Sinai area in southern Lebanon.”
It also said it had struck facilities used by Green Without Borders, an NGO under US sanctions that Israel considers to have “operated under a civilian cover to conceal the presence of Hezbollah in the border area with Israel.”
Source: arabnews.com
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Palestinian PM pitches $65 billion five-year plan to rebuild Gaza
October 16, 2025
RAMALLAH: The Palestinian Authority’s prime minister met on Thursday with UN and diplomatic officials to present a plan for Gaza’s reconstruction, despite uncertainties over his government’s role in the war-shattered territory’s future.
“I would like to believe that 12 months from now, the Palestinian Authority will be fully operational in Gaza,” Mohammed Mustafa said.
Mustafa said the Palestinian Authority had crafted a five-year plan for Gaza that would unfold over three phases and require $65 billion across 18 sectors, including housing, education, governance, and more.
The authority has not had a role in Gaza’s governance since Hamas seized control of the territory in 2007, though it still provides some services in the territory.
The Gaza peace plan set out by US President Donald Trump does not rule out a Palestinian state. Also, it suggests allowing a role for the Palestinian Authority once it has completed a set of reforms.
The plan builds on what was agreed at a summit of Arab countries in Cairo in March 2025, and Mustafa said that “police training programs initiated with Egypt and Jordan are already underway.”
“Our vision is clear,” Mustafa told an assembly of Palestinian ministers, UN heads of agency, and diplomatic heads of mission from his office in Ramallah, in the Israeli-occupied West Bank.
“Gaza shall be rebuilt as an open, connected and thriving part of the state of Palestine,” Mustafa said.
He also said that technical discussions were ongoing with the EU over “secure crossing operations, customs systems, and integrated policing units.”
The EU is one of the largest donors to the PA.
Above all, the post-war reconstruction plan aims to make way for a single Palestinian government.
The process will “reinforce the political and territorial unity between Gaza and the West Bank, and contribute to restoring a credible governance framework for the state of Palestine,” said Mustafa.
His remarks came as International Monetary Fund Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva urged all parties to continue moving toward sustained peace following a ceasefire in Gaza, saying it would benefit the entire region.
Georgieva, speaking during the annual meetings of the IMF and World Bank in Washington, said on Thursday she was relieved when the recent ceasefire was reached for the sake of all the people affected by the two-year war in the Palestinian enclave.
She said lowered tensions would be good news for the economies of Egypt and Jordan, where the IMF has programs, and Lebanon and Syria, which have asked for help and support from the global lender.
“It is important because everybody concerned encourages this direction of sustaining a lasting peace, and yes, it would benefit the region,” she said.
“There will be a peace dividend for everybody.”
Source: arabnews.com
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https://www.arabnews.com/node/2619152/middle-east
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Palestinian child shot dead by Israeli forces near Hebron
October 16, 2025
LONDON: An 11-year-old Palestinian child was declared dead on Thursday evening after succumbing to injuries sustained from Israeli forces’ gunfire.
Mohammad Bahjat Al-Hallaq was a fourth-grade student living in the village of Al-Rihiya, located south of Hebron in the occupied West Bank.
Israeli soldiers shot live bullets at children playing football in the yard of Al-Rihiya Girls Secondary School early on Thursday, according to a Wafa correspondent. Al-Hallaq was shot by a bullet that penetrated his pelvis. He was transferred to a nearby hospital in critical condition, where he was later pronounced dead.
Rights organizations have condemned Israel’s use of live ammunition against Palestinian civilians, especially minors, citing violations of international humanitarian law and the Convention on the Rights of the Child.
Source: arabnews.com
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Turkish experts to help find hostage bodies in Gaza: ministry sources
October 16, 2025
ANKARA: Turkiye has sent 81 disaster relief experts to the Gaza Strip, some of whom will help with finding the remains of 19 hostages still unaccounted for, a defense ministry source said Thursday.
“There is already a team of 81 AFAD staff there,” the source said, referring to Turkiye’s disaster relief agency, indicating that “one team will be in charge of seeking and finding the bodies.”
Turkiye’s Disaster Management Authority (AFAD) is a government agency that operates under the interior ministry.
“The tasks are known: transmitting humanitarian aid, finding corpses and protecting the ceasefire. But there is no clear information on how to handle these tasks,” the ministry source said.
Asked whether Turkish military forces could get involved, the source said it would be “more the task of civilian entities like AFAD” but in theory the military could help out if needed.
AFAD rescue workers are accustomed to operating in difficult terrain and have responded to numerous earthquakes that have shaken Turkiye, including the one in February 2023 in the southeast of the country, which killed at least 53,000 people.
AFAD says it has carried out rescue and humanitarian aid missions in more than 50 countries on five continents in recent years, including Somalia, the Palestinian territories, Ecuador, the Philippines, Nepal, Yemen, Mozambique, and Chad.
Source: arabnews.com
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Israeli forces demolish two-story home in Al-Mughayyir near Ramallah
October 16, 2025
LONDON: Israeli forces on Thursday demolished a home in the village of Al-Mughayyir, northeast of Ramallah, which is the administrative seat of the Palestinian Authority, according to the Wafa news agency.
Amin Abu Aliya, the head of Al-Mughayyir, reported that Israeli forces stormed and demolished a two-story house under construction in the southern part of the village, citing building without a permit as the reason.
The house belonged to Wajih Musa Abu Aliya.
Al-Mughayyir, a village with about 4,000 residents, in August suffered the destruction of about 3,000 olive trees by the Israeli military under the pretext that the trees posed a “security threat” to an Israeli settlement road that runs through the village’s territory.
The olive tree is a national symbol for Palestinians and provides a vital source of income for 80,000 to 100,000 families who rely on harvesting and selling olives, olive oil, and other products derived from it.
The Israeli settlement of Adei Ad, established in 1998, encroaches on the agricultural groves of Al-Mughayyir as well as land belonging to the Palestinian villages of Jalud and Turmus’ayya.
Source: arabnews.com
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Africa
Muslim Rights Concern Urges National Insurance Commission to Unban Co-Insurance With Takaful
by Tajudeen Adebanjo
October 17, 2025
An appeal has gone to the National Insurance Commission (NAICOM) to withdraw its recent circular which prohibited conventional insurance companies from co-insuring businesses with Islamic insurance companies.
The appeal was made by a faith-based human rights advocacy group, the Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC).
MURIC, in a statement by its Founder/Executive Director, Prof Ishaq Akintola, accused NAICOM of religious discrimination, insurance apartheid, and neo-imperialist cum Islamophobic exclusivism.
Prof Ishaq Akintola said: “NAICOM’s circular which prohibited conventional insurance companies from co-insuring businesses with Islamic insurance companies is archaic, myopic and parochial. It aims at the heart of the businesses of Nigerian Muslims, particularly Islamic insurance (Takaful) companies. It also seeks to divide Nigerians against themselves while it threatens religious tolerance and peaceful coexistence.
“It seeks to deprive millions of Muslims from having access to insurance policies. It is Islamophobic. It is also an attempt to open the doors of businesses to religious apartheid, exclusivism and gymnastic religiousity as opposed to free enterprise without any form of discrimination either on grounds of religion, ethnicity or gender.
“Professionals in the insurance field cannot deny the fact that all conventional insurance companies have Muslim customers. NAICOM may have inadvertently tickled the consciousness of Muslims for self-determination in the area of insurance.
“This is capable of generating an unhealthy atmosphere whereby Muslim customers begin to withdraw from non-Islamic (conventional) insurance companies due to this unhealthy and tactless development.
“This circular is a product of short-sightedness and acrobatic religiousity. It is long in redtapism but short in strategic planning. This policy is anti-Islam and malicious. It also suffers from desertification of emotional intelligence. Therefore, MURIC demands immediate and unconditional withdrawal of this offensive, provocative and illegal circular.”
Source: thenationonlineng.net
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DHQ Explains Why Some Soldiers Fighting Terrorists Have Not Gotten Their Feeding Allowance
October 16, 2025
By Oladipo Abiola
The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has explained that a system glitch could be blamed for the delay in the payment of Ration Cash Allowance (RCA) to some soldiers.
The Director of Defence Media Operations, Maj.-Gen. Magnus Kangye, who made the clarification, added that the delay can’t be blamed on field commanders or the military high command.
The RCA is an allowance meant to support soldiers’ feeding and welfare while on active field operations.
He assured that the military authorities have approved the necessary payments and the commanders are not withholding funds meant for the soldiers under their supervision who are active in various operations across the country.
According to him, the issue of personnel welfare remains a priority, and the soldiers would not be made to go out on empty stomachs.
Naija News reports that Kangye made the clarification on Thursday in Abuja while fielding questions from newsmen during a press briefing at the DHQ in Abuja.
“The issue of soldiers’ welfare has been a recurring one, and we have always explained that no field commander will be given money to feed his troops or pay their allowances and then refuse to do so.
“Meaning the soldiers are going to fight on an empty stomach, their morale will dampen. So if that happens in the bush, where will the soldier get money to feed himself?” Kangye said.
Explaining further, the DHQ spokesperson said glitches in the banking system may be responsible for the delays, as no system is perfect, but the soldiers would surely get their entitlements.
“Yes, there may be some delay in some instances, but definitely, that RCA will be paid. A delay of a day or two could occur because of certain transaction issues. Nothing is perfect, no system is perfect,” he added.
To drive home his point, Kangye likened the situation to a family setting where a person transfers money to a relative, but the recipient does not immediately receive the funds due to banking system glitches.
He assured that there is no deliberate attempt to deny troops their welfare or entitlements.
“Even you, at the end of the month, you want to transfer the feeding allowance to your family, and you transfer the money from your phone, but your wife said she didn’t see it. She sends you her balance. So where is the money? Will you not tell her to wait? Maybe there is an issue with the bank. Is it not true?” Kangye said.
Naija News understands the clarification follows complaints from soldiers deployed under DHQ-led operations, particularly Operation Fasan Yamma in the North-West and Operation Whirl Stroke in the North-Central, who alleged that they had not received their Ration Cash Allowance since August 2025.
Source: naijanews.com
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https://www.naijanews.com/2025/10/16/dhq-explains-why-some-soldiers-fighting-terrorists-have-not-gotten-their-feeding-allowance/
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Global Islamic finance assets to hit $9.7trn by 2029 – LSEG, ICD report
October 16, 2025
The global Islamic finance industry is projected to reach US$9.7 trillion by 2029, growing at an average annual rate of 10 per cent, according to the 2025 Islamic Finance Development Indicator (IFDI) report released on Thursday by the London Stock Exchange Group (LSEG) in collaboration with the Islamic Corporation for the Development of the Private Sector (ICD), a member of the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Group.
The report, which assesses the progress of Islamic finance across 140 countries, ranks Malaysia as the leading global market, followed by Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Other countries in the top 10 include Indonesia, Pakistan, Kuwait, Bahrain, Iran, Qatar, Türkiye, and Bangladesh, representing the most mature and diversified Islamic finance hubs worldwide.
Governance emerged as the strongest-performing component globally, reflecting significant advances in regulatory frameworks, transparency, and disclosure standards.
Speaking on the findings, Mustafa Adil, Head of Islamic Finance at LSEG, said the future of the industry will be shaped by cross-border collaboration, regulatory innovation, and strategic national initiatives.
“Based on current trajectories, global Islamic finance assets are projected to reach US$9.7 trillion by 2029, growing at an average annual rate of 10%. This underscores Islamic finance’s vital role in supporting sustainable economic growth and financial inclusion globally,” Adil said.
Khalid Khalafalla, Acting Chief Executive Officer of ICD, noted that the IFDI has become a key benchmark for policymakers and market participants seeking to advance inclusive and resilient Islamic finance ecosystems.
“The IFDI reflects the sustained efforts of governments and institutions to create an inclusive and resilient Islamic finance ecosystem that supports real economies and aligns with global development objectives,” Khalafalla stated. “These goals are intrinsically linked to ICD’s mission to foster private sector development and advance Islamic finance across its member countries.”
Industry resilience and ESG growth
The report highlights the resilience of the global Islamic finance sector despite persistent macroeconomic challenges. The global sukuk market surpassed US$1 trillion in outstanding value in 2024, with total issuance rising 11 per cent year-on-year to US$254.3 billion.
Sustainability-linked sukuk also recorded strong growth, with environmental, social, and governance (ESG) sukuk exceeding US$50 billion in outstanding value and US$15.4 billion in new issuances in 2024, underscoring the growing integration of sustainability principles into Islamic finance.
Islamic banking remains the dominant segment, accounting for 72 per cent of total industry assets, with operations in 84 markets worldwide. The sector’s expansion is particularly evident in sub-Saharan Africa, where 104 Islamic banks and windows now operate across 28 countries.
The three largest markets – Iran, Saudi Arabia, and Malaysia – collectively account for US$4.3 trillion, or 72 per cent of total global Islamic finance assets.
The IFDI, a composite weighted index, evaluates the development of Islamic finance across five key dimensions: Financial Performance, Governance, Sustainability, Awareness, and Knowledge. It offers a comprehensive overview of the industry’s global landscape and serves as a guide for policymakers, regulators, and investors seeking to align growth with Islamic principles.
Source: hallmarknews.com
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https://hallmarknews.com/global-islamic-finance-assets-to-hit-9-7trn-by-2029-lseg-icd-report/
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Why I embrace Muslim, Christian identities – Nasboi
by Yewande Fasan
October 16, 2025
Skit maker and musician Lawal Nasiru popularly known as Nasboi has declared himself a Muslim and a Christian, citing his diverse upbringing as the reason for his neutral stance on tribal and religious divides.
In a post on X, the comedian shared that his Yoruba Muslim father and Christian mother from Warri, coupled with his life experiences in Port Harcourt and studies at the University of Uyo, shaped his inclusive worldview.
Nasboi explained that his mixed heritage and exposure to different cultures made it impossible for him to align with tribalism or religious extremism.
“My papa Yoruba, my mama Warri. My papa Muslim, my mama Christian. I was born and raised in Port Harcourt. I studied at the University of Uyo, Akwa Ibom. This is why I can never relate to tribalism or all the religious agendas,” he wrote.
The statement triggered varied reactions online, with some netizens praising his open-mindedness while others labeled him “confused” for not choosing a single religious identity.
Source: thenationonlineng.net
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UN condemns military coup in Madagascar: calls for restoration of peace and unity
October 17, 2025
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has strongly condemned the recent unconstitutional change of government in Madagascar, calling for the immediate restoration of constitutional order and respect for the rule of law.
In a statement delivered by UN Spokesman Stephane Dujarric, the Secretary-General expressed his support for the decision of the African Union's Peace and Security Council to suspend Madagascar from participating in all activities of the African Union and its affiliated institutions until constitutional order is reinstated.
The Secretary-General urged all stakeholders in Madagascar, including the youth, to unite in addressing the root causes of the country's political instability.
He also reaffirmed the United Nations commitment to supporting Madagascar's national efforts to achieve stability, in cooperation with the African Union, the Southern African Development Community (SADC), and other international partners.
Source: africanews.com
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https://www.africanews.com/2025/10/17/un-condemns-military-coup-in-madagascar-calls-for-restoration-of-peace-and-unity/
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‘You Will Remain Social Media President’ – Wike Blasts Peter Obi
October 16, 2025
By Rachel Okporu Fadoju
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has accused the Labour Party (LP) 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, of turning every issue into politics, stating that he will remain a social media president.
Naija News reports that Wike slammed Peter Obi on Thursday during the commissioning of newly completed roads, Esther Bali Street and Kez Udezue Street in Mabushi District, Abuja.
Wike referenced Peter Obi’s recent remarks after a visit to the LEA Primary School in Kapwa, Abuja, where the former governor expressed disappointment over the school’s poor condition and the absence of toilets.
The former governor of Rivers State faulted Peter Obi for making public comments rather than notifying him privately or the relevant authorities.
Wike accused Obi of neglecting the people of Anambra while keeping public funds in his bank to generate interest, adding that it is why his successors have been struggling.
He said, “The road we are commissioning today, it was a responsible citizen who called our attention to it and I’m happy that citizen is also here today.
“There is one social media man who calls himself presidential candidate, he went to one school in FCT and said we did not provide toilets for them. Imagine. He plays politics with everything.
“When he was governor for 8 years, did he develop the entire Anambra? Instead he carried the state’s money and put in his bank.
“His name is Peter Obi. And that is why his successors have been struggling.
“I challenge him to come out publicly and compare what he did for 8 years in Anambra with what we have done in the FCT in just two years.
“Someone who cannot manage a political party as a presidential candidate is talking about managing a complex country like Nigeria.
“He will remain a social media president.”
Source: naijanews.com
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https://www.naijanews.com/2025/10/16/you-will-remain-social-media-president-wike-blasts-peter-obi/
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URL: https://newageislam.com/islamic-world-news/thook-jihad-uttarakhand-police-chef-spitting/d/137286