Saudi Scholar Warns Against Random Fatwas on TV Channels by Unqualified People
New Age Islam News Bureau
9 March 2013
Pakistan
• Alleged blasphemy: Mob burns scores of Christian homes in Lahore
• Fighting in Tirah Valley: Clashes, strafing by jets leave 28 dead
• Explosion kills six in Peshawar mosque
• Blasphemy accusation: Hundreds of Christians in Lahore forced to flee
• Nawaz Sharif: I would resolve the Kashmir dispute
• Mahashivaratri 2013: Eighty-eight Hindu pilgrims arrive in Pakistan to attend festival
• Enforced disappearances: Commission received 861 new cases in two years
• Concern over non-release of funds for Balochistan
• Nawaz reopens Pak Tea House in Lahore
South Asia
• Muslim riots in China
• Suicide bomber kills nine Afghans during Chuck Hagel's visit
• Suicide bomber kills 8 children in Afghanistan
• Home minister accuses BNP, Jamaat of attacking minorities
• Maldives appoints attorney general as acting human rights minister
• “No reason” to delay trial for just four weeks, says Nasheed
• Bangladesh Islamic Front demands ban on Jamaat-Shibir
• Bangladesh: Executive order enough for banning Jamaat: HR chief
• US transfer of last Afghan prisoners postponed
• Kabul payout offered to kin of Hazara blast victims
• Best man: Afghan Taliban may replace top negotiator
• 26 rescued while being trafficked to India
Africa
• Mauritanian Ulema Confront Extremism
• Mali - Women's Rights Must Be At the Core of the Transition
• Somalia: Video Shows Marginalised, Weary Al-Shabaab Fighters
• Sudans to withdraw troops from buffer zone
• Thousands flee crisis-hit Sudan in ‘brain drain’
India
• BJP hails Ajmer Sharif spiritual head's stand on Pak PM Visit
• 'Indian-origin Jihadis' fighting in Syria against Assad regime
• Terror not discussed with Pak PM: Khurshid
• ‘Political reservations for Muslims not possible’: Minister for Minority Affairs
• Pepper gas has Srinagar reeling
• Qaeda praises Kasab, Afzal, threatens attacks
• Snipers, 1,000 cops for Ashraf’s visit
• Lunch, basic diplomatic courtesies for Pakistan PM
• Khwaja wants him to come: Khurshid on Pak PM's visit
• Khurshid on Pak PM: We welcome our guests with open arms
• Outraged BJP slams Salman Khurshid for lunch with Pakistan PM
• Pak PM offers prayers at Ajmer Dargah amid protests by lawyers
• After Shah Rukh Khan, Irrfan Khan was stopped at US airport for being a 'Khan'
Southeast Asia
• Indonesia mulls criminalising unmarried cohabiting couples
• After Sealing of Bekasi Church, Another Comes Under Threat of Closure
Europe
• Muslim discrimination 'too common' in Sweden
• Radical Muslim Abu Qatada arrested in UK
North America
• India more favoured by Americans than Israel and Mexico: Poll
• Osama bin Laden's son-in-law: Pleads not guilty in New York
• US agents tracked bin Laden son-in-law for years before arrest
Mideast Asia
• Hamas brands Obama visit a 'trap'
• Israel prepares for next war with Hezbollah
• Iran’s Ahmadinejad criticised over Chavez remarks
• Kingdom urges donors to fulfil Yemen aid pledges
Arab World
• Saudi Scholar Warns Against Random Fatwas on TV Channels by Unqualified People
• Kurds Protest Iraqi Forces Sent To Disputed Region on Syrian Border
• Egypt raises alert level in Sinai over jihadist fears
• Over 336,000 Syrian refugees in Lebanon
• UN, Syrian regime agree on truce to free peacekeepers: NGO
• Egypt court confirms death sentences in flashpoint soccer riot case
• 342 foreigners deported on criminal, terror-related charges
• Saudi rights activists given heavy jail terms
• Islamists protest against suspension of bearded policemen
• Angry fans torch Egypt's soccer federation headquarters
Compiled by New Age Islam News Bureau
Photo: Demonstrators torch people’s belongings over a blasphemy row in a Christian neighbourhood in Lahore on March 9, 2013. — Photo by AFP
URL:
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Saudi Scholar Warns Against Random Fatwas on TV Channels by Unqualified People
March 09, 2013
JEDDAH — A Saudi scholar has slammed the common practice of satellite channels inviting unqualified people appear as guests and airing misguided religious edicts (Fatwas) on various religious issues.
Sheikh Hassan Safar warned such Fatwas would lead to sedition and a general feeling of confusion in society. Speaking to Saudi Gazette, he said a fatwa must be issued with the sole intention of winning Allah’s pleasure and reward.
“It is not permissible to accept money for issuing a fatwa and it is unfortunate that some channels are hosting sheikhs and giving them remuneration for answering viewers’ questions on religious topics. These sheikhs should not be issuing fatwas if they seek publicity or monetary rewards,” he said while drawing attention to a recent case in which a sheikh issued a controversial fatwa.
“A preacher appeared on a satellite TV channel and wrongly said that the Prophet (peace be upon him) traded in liquor. Such vile comments can create sedition and confusion in society,” he said in strong language.
According to Sheikh Safar, religious edicts should be issued on topics that are useful to people and they should provide guidance so people can follow the true path.
He further said a fatwa must be issued by a competent authority that can thoroughly study the various aspects of the issue and these studies should be on the basis of fundamental principles of the Shariah. Once issued, such Fatwas should be legally recognized and then made available online so people can benefit from them.
Sheikh Safar said that only competent and well-qualified scholars are allowed to issue religious verdicts. It is essential to ensure that the mufti has personal integrity, intellectual and moral credentials as well as sound and in-depth knowledge in the Shariah.
“He can enlighten the Ummah with his clear vision and broad perception of the topics in which he is pronouncing the fatwa. The mufti should be punctual in performing prayers in congregation, observing obligatory fasting and payment of Zakah, besides staying away from forbidden and undesirable things like backbiting, gossip and doing injustice to anyone,” he said.
The scholar also said the Board of Senior Scholars is the most competent body to issue fatwas in the Kingdom. “The Board is comprised of a number of eminent scholars who are qualified to pronounce Fatwas on any topic. A mufti should take into consideration the place, timing and situation when issuing a religious edict. He should not do this noble deed for any material gains,” he added.
http://www.saudigazette.com.sa/index.cfm?method=home.regcon&contentid=20130309156028
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Pakistan
Alleged blasphemy: Mob burns scores of Christian homes in Lahore
March 9, 2013
LAHORE: A highly-charged mob of thousands burnt more than 40 Christian houses in Badami Bagh area of Lahore on Saturday to “take revenge of the blasphemy” allegedly committed by a Christian two days earlier.
Express News had earlier reported that around 100 houses were burnt by the mob.
Eyewitnesses said that the mob broke into the houses, looted them and burnt the remaining belongings on the roads.
SSP Operations Suhail Sukhera and the SHO of Badami Bagh were also reportedly injured when the mob pelted a police party with stones.
Punjab Law Minister Rana Sanaullah told Express News that he saw no reason for the mob’s violence especially after the person accused of blasphemy had been arrested on Friday. He added that cases have been registered against those responsible for Saturday’s vandalism and that they will be prosecuted.
Sanaullah added that all those whose property had been damaged will be compensated within five days.
Shahi Imran, who had filed the blasphemy FIR, told The Express Tribune that he was not responsible for the incident and he had left the area when the mob arrived to burn the houses. He maintained that the accused should be taught a lesson but the other Christian families should not be harmed.
SSP Sukhera, when contacted, denied that the houses were set on fire and said that the police personnel was present in the area.
President Asif Ali Zardari took notice of the incident and sought a report from authorities, reported Radio Pakistan.
On Friday, a mob of almost 3,000 people forced the Christian community to flee for their lives, leaving behind their houses and possessions unprotected.
The charged group had gathered around Joseph Colony on Noor Road, led by Shafiq Ahmed, who was in search of the accused Savan, alias Bubby. The mob then attacked Savan’s house, setting it on fire and pelting it with stones. Other houses in the locality – home to about 150 Christian families – were also attacked. Many residents, including women and children, hastily fled to save themselves.
Savan was arrested and shifted to an undisclosed location.
http://tribune.com.pk/story/518244/alleged-blasphemy-mob-burns-100-christian-homes-in-lahore/
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Fighting in Tirah Valley: Clashes, strafing by jets leave 28 dead
March 9, 2013
BARA: At least eight militants from the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and Ansarul Islam (AI) were killed during clashes between the two groups in the Tirah Valley of Khyber Agency on Friday.
According to AI spokesperson Sadat Afridi, around 50 TTP militants attacked AI check-posts in the Tambo, Khwajali and Bar Qamber Khel areas on the boundary of Orakzai Agency. Three AI fighters were killed and two injured, while five TTP militants were gunned down and three were injured, he added.
The spokesperson claimed that they repulsed the attack and recaptured the check-posts. The TTP militants fled to an undisclosed location in Orakzai Agency, he added. “Both groups used heavy weapons against each other.”
Meanwhile, an official of the security forces claimed that 20 militants were killed when fighter jets bombed TTP hideouts in the remote Tirah Valley.
The official added that the planes bombed trenches in the Ghaibi Naika, Speen Darand, Touheedabad, Naray Baba, Sandana, Serai, Kata Kanray areas and added that a commander, identified as Ajman Khan, along with five militants, was also killed in the bombing.
Tirah Valley, a scenic region of Khyber Agency, has been under the control of various militant groups, including the TTP, AI and Lashkar-e-Islam of Mangal Bagh Afridi, who have been engaged in a deadly turf war.
The valley borders the tribal regions of Orakzai and Kurram and serves as a transit for militants moving in the tribal belt.
Fighting between Lashkar-e-Islam and AI has claimed hundreds of lives. The TTP is siding with Mangal Bagh in his fight against the AI.
http://tribune.com.pk/story/518084/fighting-in-tirah-valley-clashes-strafing-by-jets-leave-28-dead/
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Explosion kills six in Peshawar mosque
March 9, 2013
PESHAWAR: At least six people were killed in an explosion inside a mosque in the northwestern city of Peshawar on Saturday, SP Peshawar city Khalid Hamdani said.
Thirty people were also injured in the blast that took place inside the Chishtia Hanafia Ganj Ali Khan mosque near the city’s Meena bazaar.
The bomb was planted near the front row of the congregation and people were getting ready to pray when the blast occurred, eye witnesses said.
Reports said the imam of the mosque was among those killed in the explosion.
Four to five kilograms of explosives were used in the remote-controlled bomb blast, Bomb Disposal Unit in-charge AIG Shafqat Malik said.
Peshawar, the capital of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, has been the site of several terrorist attacks in recent months.
The city is surrounded by tribal regions where Al Qaeda and Pakistani Taliban militants are said to have hideouts.
The Pakistani military has carried out several operations in the area, but intermittent terrorist attacks continue.
http://dawn.com/2013/03/09/explosion-injures-four-in-peshawar/
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Blasphemy accusation: Hundreds of Christians in Lahore forced to flee
By Rana Tanveer
March 9, 2013
LAHORE: A mob of almost 3,000 people, forced a Christian community to flee for their lives on Friday, leaving behind their houses and possessions.
This occurred in the Badami Bagh area, when one of the Christians was accused of blasphemy against Prophet Muhammad (pbuh).
The charged group gathered around Joseph Colony on Noor Road, led by Shafiq Ahmed, who was in search of the accused Savan, alias Bubby. The mob attacked Savan’s house, partially burnt it and pelted it with stones. Other houses in the locality – home to about 150 Christian families – were also attacked. Many residents, including women and children, hastily fled to save themselves.
Full report at:
http://tribune.com.pk/story/518123/blasphemy-accusation-hundreds-of-christians-in-lahore-forced-to-flee/
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Nawaz Sharif: I would resolve the Kashmir dispute
Mar 09 2013
Islamabad : Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) President Nawaz Sharif has said he would resolve the Kashmir dispute and try and develop better relations with Afghanistan if he came to power.
While addressing a public meeting, he said that the PPP and its allies have failed to deliver in the last five years and bloodshed has continued in Karachi and Balochistan where innocent people are being killed.
Full report at:
http://www.indianexpress.com/news/nawaz-sharif-i-would-resolve-the-kashmir-dispute/1085620/
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Mahashivaratri 2013: Eighty-eight Hindu pilgrims arrive in Pakistan to attend festival
PTI | Mar 8, 2013
LAHORE: A group of 88 Hindu pilgrims from India on Friday arrived in Pakistan to attend the Mahashivaratri festival at the historic Katas Raj temple.
On entering Pakistan through the Wagah land border, the pilgrims were received by officials of the Evacuee Trust Property Board which is responsible for maintaining shrines of minority communities.
Full report at:
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Mahashivaratri-2013-Eighty-eight-Hindu-pilgrims-arrive-in-Pakistan-to-attend-festival/articleshow/18869363.cms
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Enforced disappearances: Commission received 861 new cases in two years
March 9, 2013
ISLAMABAD: The Commission of Inquiry on Enforced Disappearances has said it received 861 new cases during the period of January 1, 2011 and February 28, 2013, taking the total number of such cases to 999.
Out of these 999 cases, 378 cases have been disposed off and 621 remain under investigation, a press release issued by the commission said.
Full report at:
http://dawn.com/2013/03/09/commission-on-enforced-disappearances-received-861-new-cases-in-two-years/
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Concern over non-release of funds for Balochistan
March 9, 2013
QUETTA: The Balochistan government has expressed serious concern over non-release of funds by the centre for development projects launched by the federal government in the province.
A meeting held here on Friday with Chief Secretary Babar Yaqoob Fateh Mohammad in the chair decided that a team of senior officials would visit Islamabad and take up the issue with the officials of the Planning Commission and Finance Division.
The meeting noted that funds were needed for construction of highways and Sariab Railway Crossing flyover and rehabilitation of flood-affected people of the province.
http://dawn.com/2013/03/09/concern-over-non-release-of-funds-for-balochistan/
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Nawaz reopens Pak Tea House in Lahore
March 9, 2013
LAHORE: Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) chief Nawaz Sharif on Friday reopened Lahore’s iconic Pak Tea House after 13 years of closure.
The historic tea stall is known as meeting place for intellectuals, poets, writers and artists.
A large number of noted writers and literary figures were present on the occasion.
Nawaz Sharif said he feels immensely proud while reopening Pak Tea House as writers and thinkers serve the nation selflessly. He promised to visit the place again and again to learn from the cultural icons.
Full report at:
http://dawn.com/2013/03/09/nawaz-reopens-pak-tea-house-in-lahore/
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South Asia
Muslim riots in China
Sutirtho Patranobis, Hindustan Times
Beijing, March 08, 2013
At least four persons were killed and eight injured in a knife attack on Thursday in the restive north-western region of Xinjiang.
In 2009, nearly 200 people were killed in rioting between members of the Muslim Uyghur -- the majority community in the autonomous region -- and Han Chinese communities.
Thursday attacks happened as the Communist Party of China (CPC) chief of Xinjiang, Zhang Chunxian, in Beijing for the ongoing session of the National People's Congress (NPC), said : "Although the situation [in Xinjiang] remains tough, the overall stability in Xinjiang is improving and under control."
Full report at:
http://www.hindustantimes.com/world-news/china/Muslim-riots-in-China/Article1-1023149.aspx
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Suicide bomber kills nine Afghans during Chuck Hagel's visit
Reuters | Mar 9, 2013
KABUL: A suicide bomber blew himself up at a defence ministry gate in Kabul on Saturday killing nine civilians during a visit to Afghanistan by us defence secretary Chuck Hagel, underlining the insurgent threat as NATO troops prepare to leave.
Hagel was nowhere near the explosion, said a spokesman for Afghanistan's NATO-led International Security Assistance Force (ISAF). A US defence official said Hagel was in a safe location at an ISAF facility.
Full report at:
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/south-asia/Suicide-bomber-kills-nine-Afghans-during-Chuck-Hagels-visit/articleshow/18876092.cms
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Suicide bomber kills 8 children in Afghanistan
March 09, 2013
A suicide attack in eastern Afghanistan on Saturday killed eight children and one policeman, officials said, adding the target of the strike was Afghan and international forces.
"A suicide attacker blew up his explosives on a road beside a joint patrol of Afghan police and
International forces in the city of Khost," the provincial governor of Khost said in a statement.
Full report at:
http://www.hindustantimes.com/world-news/afghanistan/Suicide-bomber-kills-8-children-in-Afghanistan/Article1-1023630.aspx
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Home minister accuses BNP, Jamaat of attacking minorities
9 March 2013
Home Minister MK Alamgir on Saturday accused both the BNP and its key ally Jamaat-e-Islami of unleashing attacks on the minority communities.
“Militant outfit Jamaat and its supporter BNP are carrying out attacks on the minorities. We’ve observed the communal force unleashed a reign of terror over the last one week,” he said.
Full report at:
http://www.thedailystar.net/beta2/news/home-minister-accuses-bnp-jamaat-of-attacking-minorities/
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Maldives appoints attorney general as acting human rights minister
By Neil Merrett | March 7th, 2013
Attorney General (AG) Azima Shukoor has been appointed as Acting Minister of Gender, Family and Human Rights, the President’s Office has announced.
Shukoor’s appointment comes at a time when the government has committed itself to review laws it has previously claimed discriminate against - and in some cases criminalise – women and minors believed to be the victims of sexual abuse.
Full report at:
http://minivannews.com/politics/government-appoints-attorney-general-as-acting-human-rights-minister-54183
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“No reason” to delay trial for just four weeks, says Nasheed
By Mohamed Naahee | March 7th, 2013
Former President Mohamed Nasheed has requested state institutions consider the Prosecutor General’s statement to the Hulhumale’ Magistrate Court during the most recent hearing of his ongoing trial.
During the hearing on Wednesday (March 7), state prosecutors said they did not object to delaying the trial until presidential elections scheduled for later this year are over.
The prosecution told the three-member panel of judges that they “did not have any problem” withholding the trial for four weeks, and “did not object to delaying the election until the end of the scheduled presidential elections in September 2013.”
Full report at:
http://minivannews.com/politics/prosecutor-general-has-given-the-opportunity-to-other-institutions-to-delay-the-trial-says-president-nasheed-54177
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Bangladesh Islamic Front demands ban on Jamaat-Shibir
9 March 2013
Stating that Jamaat-Shibir activists were trying to create terror in the
country, Chittagong city unit leaders of Islamic Front Bangladesh yesterday urged the government to ban the two organisations.
Terming the recent countrywide attacks on the minority communities and their property a
matter of tension and shame, the leaders urged people to resist Jamaat-Shibir for “fooling” Muslims by misusing and misrepresenting Islam.
Full report at:
http://www.thedailystar.net/beta2/news/islamic-front-demands-ban-on-jamaat-shibir/
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Executive order enough for banning Jamaat: HR chief
9 March 2013
If any political party tries to damage public properties resorting to militancy, it can be banned with an executive order, National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) chief said on Saturday.
Full report at:
http://www.thedailystar.net/beta2/news/executive-order-enough-to-ban-jamaat-hr-chief/
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US transfer of last Afghan prisoners postponed
March 9, 2013
KABUL: A ceremony to mark the complete transfer of a controversial jail from US to Afghan control was cancelled on Saturday, another setback in a long-running dispute over detainees.
The event at Bagram prison had been announced by Afghan President, Hamid Karzai, who said it would mark the successful culmination of years of work to decide the fate of suspected militants held by US forces.
Full report at:
http://dawn.com/2013/03/09/us-transfer-of-last-afghan-prisoners-postponed/
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Kabul payout offered to kin of Hazara blast victims
March 9, 2013
QUETTA: The Afghan government will be offering monetary compensation to the families of those who lost their loved ones in the Kirani Road terrorist attack, said Afghan Ambassador to Pakistan Mohammad Omer Dawoodzai.
On February 16, a bomb targeting the Shia Hazaras in a packed bazaar killed 64 people and wounded 180 others. The incident attracted wide international condemnation.
Full report at:
http://tribune.com.pk/story/518074/quetta-carnage-kabul-payout-offered-to-kin-of-hazara-blast-victims/
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Best man: Afghan Taliban may replace top negotiator
By Tahir Khan
March 9, 2013
ISLAMABAD: The current top Taliban peace negotiator may be too inexperienced to get the job done and could be replaced.
Syed Tayyeb Agha and his team are not expected to achieve the desired results in the negotiations, a former Taliban minister told The Express Tribune. “Tayyeb Agha and all other Taliban negotiators are not seniors and lack the ability to smoothly take the dialogue process forward and deal with all sides and important players in the Afghan conflict,” he said.
Full report at:
http://tribune.com.pk/story/518105/best-man-afghan-taliban-may-replace-top-negotiator/
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26 rescued while being trafficked to India
9 March 2013
Members of Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) rescued 26 people, including women and children, from Sotoachra border area in Benapole on Friday night while they were being trafficked to India.
Rafiqul Islam, company commander at BGB 26 battalion in Benapole, said acting on a tip-off they conducted a drive in the area around 7:00pm and rescued 10 women, 12 men and four children.
They were handed over to Benapole Port Police Station. A case was filed with the police station.
http://www.thedailystar.net/beta2/news/26-rescued-while-being-trafficked-to-india/
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Africa
Mauritanian Ulema Confront Extremism
BY JEMAL OUMAR
7 MARCH 2013
Nouakchott — Mauritanian religious leaders diagnose "the basic ills of society" and recommend ways to combat radicalism.
More than fifty Mauritanian scholars, imams, clerics and government officials recently wrapped up a three day conference where they collaborated on ways to combat extremism.
The Mauritanian Ministry of Islamic Affairs with the Mauritanian Association of Ulemas concluded the training forum on February 20th in Nouadhibou, 450km north of Nouakchott.
The three-day forum focused on topics related to Islamic identity and the concept of the state from an Islamic perspective. In addition, it addressed the socio-economic dimension of state-building and the seriousness of extremism as it affects the entity of the nation.
Full report at:
http://allafrica.com/stories/201303081331.html?viewall=1
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Mali - Women's Rights Must Be At the Core of the Transition
6 MARCH 2013
On the eve of International Women's Day, FIDH joins human rights and women's rights organisations in Mali and the Coalition of the Campaign "Africa for Women's Rights: Ratify and respect !" to call for the full participation of women and the protection of their rights to be at the centre of the process towards peace and democracy in Mali.
During the conflict that has ravaged Northern Mali for over a year, women and girls have been particular targets of violence: rape and other forms of sexual violence, forced marriage, sometimes to several men, public floggings, and beatings as punishment for "immoral acts". Full report at:
http://allafrica.com/stories/201303070364.html
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Somalia: 'Mujahideen Moments' Video Shows Marginalised, Weary Al-Shabaab Fighters
BY MAJID AHMED AND BOSIRE BONIFACE
7 MARCH 2013
Mogadishu and Garissa — Al-Kataib Foundation, al-Shabaab's media arm, released a recruitment video February 25th that aims to portray a fierce, united al-Shabaab comprising members from around the world, when in reality the militant group's ranks are depleted and war-weary, analysts say.
Days after its posting, YouTube removed the 20-minute video, titled "Mujahideen Moments", and suspended the al-Kataib Foundation's account because of repeated violations of service, a fate that similarly befell al-Shabaab's Twitter account in January.
Full report at:
http://allafrica.com/stories/201303080113.html?viewall=1
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Sudans to withdraw troops from buffer zone
AMAN SETHI
March 9, 2013
The defence ministers of Sudan and South Sudan will begin withdrawing their forces from a proposed de-militarized zone as the first step in implementing a series of agreements signed in September last year.
The implementation protocol, signed on Friday in Addis Ababa, puts forward a concrete timeframe for the withdrawal of troops and the deployment of a monitoring committee.
“D Day is March 10,” said Thabo Mbeki, former president of South Africa and head of the mediation panel appointed by the African Union. “The agreement calls for immediate orders to be issued within D-day plus four days,” he added.
Full report at:
http://www.thehindu.com/news/international/world/sudans-to-withdraw-troops-from-buffer-zone/article4491342.ece
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Thousands flee crisis-hit Sudan in ‘brain drain’
March 9, 2013
KHARTOUM: Asaad Abdulmajid is saying goodbye to Sudan and its crisis-hit economy after having found a job in Saudi Arabia with a salary he says is more than 20 times what he earned from a government hospital at home.
Abdulmajid, 29, has joined tens of thousands of Sudanese medical workers, technicians, academics and others fleeing the country for better opportunities abroad, according to official statistics.
Full report at:
http://dawn.com/2013/03/09/thousands-flee-crisis-hit-sudan-in-brain-drain/
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India
BJP hails Ajmer Sharif spiritual head's stand on Pak PM visit
PTI | Mar 9, 2013
HYDERABAD: Welcoming the decision of Ajmer Sharif Dargah Diwan, Zainul Abedin Ali Khan to boycott Pakistan Prime Minister Raja Pervez Ashraf's visit to the Sufi shrine, BJP today said it reflects thinking of Indian citizens.
"It is a good decision which reflects thinking of our citizens...I do not know what is the thinking of Central government (on this)," said senior BJP leader M Venkaiah Naidu.
The dargah spiritual head had said that he will boycott Ashraf's visit in protest of 'beheading' of an Indian soldier by Pakistani army along the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kshmir.
Ashraf arrived in Jaipur today for his day-long private visit.
Full report at:
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/BJP-hails-Ajmer-Sharif-spiritual-heads-stand-on-Pak-PM-visit/articleshow/18879477.cms
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'Indian-origin jihadis' fighting in Syria against Assad regime
By Indrani Bagchi, TNN | Mar 8, 2013
NEW DELHI: Indian-origin jihadi fighters have been found fighting along with the rebels in the raging civil war in Syria. "This is one of the reasons why we think India should play a more pro-active role, because this expanding conflict will not leave anyone untouched," said Bouthaini Shabaan, political adviser to Syrian President Bashar-al-Assad, in a conversation with TOI. She quoted UN envoy Lakhdar Brahimi as saying that there were almost 38 nationalities of fighters in war-torn Syria.
Full report at:
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/middle-east/Indian-origin-jihadis-fighting-in-Syria-against-Assad-regime/articleshow/18868094.cms
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Terror not discussed with Pak PM: Khurshid
PTI | Mar 9, 2013
JAIPUR: External affairs minister Salman Khurshid on Saturday hosted a lunch for Pakistan Prime Minister Raja Pervez Ashraf but did not discuss issues like terrorism with him.
"This was a private visit. It was a pilgrimage (for Ashraf). This was not the occasion nor did I have the authority to discuss such issues," he told reporters after the lunch at Rambagh Palace Hotel here.
He was replying to a question whether terrorism was discussed with his guest.
"We have taken up such issues. We will do it in future. Today it was a private visit. There was no official talk. We will do it at the appropriate time," Khurshid said.
Full report at:
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Terror-not-discussed-with-Pak-PM-Khurshid-says-Army-chief-refuses-comment-on-visit/articleshow/18878386.cms
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‘Political reservations for Muslims not possible’: Minister for Minority Affairs
Mar 09 2013
Amendments brought in the Delimitation Act could help them to some extent: Union Minister for Minority Affairs
Union Minister for Minority Affairs K. Rahman Khan has stated that poor awareness among Muslims has been the major impediment in accessing government schemes by the community, even as he admitted defects in the delivery systems.
“Defective delivery mechanisms are not a problem just to minorities’ schemes but it’s glitch for all schemes implemented by governments in the country. However, lack of proper awareness about the schemes being designed and implemented for Muslims has been denying them of the opportunities,” the Minister felt while participating in a debate on the implementation of Sachar Committee recommendations here on Friday. He noted that the Centre had accepted 72 out of 76 recommendations made by the committee but could not implement three aspects due to some technical reasons. He said that they were in the process of putting in practice national diversity index, preparing a data bank and setting up an equal opportunities commission.
Full report at:
http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/andhra-pradesh/political-reservations-for-muslims-not-possible/article4491055.ece
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Pepper gas has Srinagar reeling
HT Correspondent, Hindustan Times
Srinagar, March 08, 2013
For almost a month since the execution of Parliament attack convict Afzal Guru on February 9, Srinagar residents are being exposed to hazardous pepper gas fired by security forces to quell protesters.
Full report at:
http://www.hindustantimes.com/India-news/srinagar/Pepper-gas-has-Srinagar-reeling/Article1-1023463.aspx
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Qaeda praises Kasab, Afzal, threatens attacks
Mar 09 2013
New Delhi : Praising Ajmal Kasab and Afzal Guru, a senior al-Qaeda commander has “vowed to avenge” their deaths by carrying out attacks in India.
In a video posted on the website of the jihadist Jamia Hafsa Urdu Forum, Asmatullah Moavia says Kasab was a “source of pride” and a true “mujahid”. “He was among us, he was ours, a native of Pakistan,” he says in a message translated by SITE Intelligence Group, which tracks online activities of terrorist organisations across the world.
Full report at:
http://www.indianexpress.com/news/qaeda-praises-kasab-afzal-threatens-attacks/1085481/
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Snipers, 1,000 cops for Ashraf’s visit
TNN | Mar 9, 2013
JAIPUR/AJMER: Pakistan prime minister Raja Pervez Ashraf will spend about five hours in Jaipur before heading to Ajmer where he will offer prayers at the world famed shrine of Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti on Saturday. Jaipur police has made elaborate arrangements for security of Ashraf at the hotel at Rambagh Circle where he will stay and have lunch.
According to a senior police officer, the Pak prime minister will reach Jaipur around 11 pm and stay till 3.45 pm at a five-star hotel here. Ashraf would meet some delegations at the hotel and have lunch before leaving for Ajmer by air.
Full report at:
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Snipers-1000-cops-for-Ashrafs-visit/articleshow/18873821.cms
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Lunch, basic diplomatic courtesies for Pakistan PM
Jayanth Jacob, Hindustan Times
New Delhi, March 09, 2013
When Asif Ali Zardari wanted to come to Ajmer in April last year, New Delhi turned it into a diplomatic opportunity and Prime Minister Manmohan Singh hosted the Pakistan president in the capital over lunch.
The weighty bilateral matters, including Pakistan president pushing hard to resolve the Siachen issue, came up and the eclectic lunch menu included Goshtaba, barra kabab, dosa, avail and phirni and sandesh.
Full report at:
http://www.hindustantimes.com/India-news/newdelhi/Lunch-basic-diplomatic-courtesies-for-Pakistan-PM/Article1-1023478.aspx
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Khwaja wants him to come: Khurshid on Pak PM's visit
Mar 09 2013
Jaipur : "Khwaja wants him to come" was how External Affairs Minister Salman Khurshid today welcomed Pakistan Prime Minister Raja Pervez Ashraf in Jaipur on way to Ajmer for his pilgrimage.
Both the leaders shook hands and greeted each other warmly before going for lunch at the Rambagh Palace Hotel here.
After lunch, Ashraf and his delegation will leave for Ajmer to offer prayers at the 13th century dargah of Sufi saint Khwaja Moinuddin Hasan Chisti.
Full report at:
http://www.indianexpress.com/news/khwaja-wants-him-to-come-khurshid-on-pak-pms-visit/1085608/
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Khurshid on Pak PM: We welcome our guests with open arms
Mar 09 2013
New Delhi : Before leaving for Jaipur to receive Pakistan Prime Minister Raja Pervez Ashraf, External Affairs Minister Salman Khurshid said on Saturday: “We welcome our guests with open arms.”
It’s in our culture to welcome our guests with open arms. Whoever speaks about it, won’t worry us,” said Khurshid.
Full report at:
http://www.indianexpress.com/news/salman-khurshid-on-pak-pm-we-welcome-our-guests-with-open-arms/1085570/
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Outraged BJP slams Salman Khurshid for lunch with Pakistan PM
Mar 09 2013
New Delhi/Lucknow/Jaipur : Taking potshots at External Affairs Minister Salman Khurshid for hosting a lunch for the visiting Pakistan PM Raja Pervez Ashraf in Jaipur, senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Yashwant Sinha on Saturday said “this move is against the feelings of the people of the country who are deeply hurt over the January 2013 beheading of two Indian soldiers along the Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmir”.
I think the issue of our External Affairs Minister going to Jaipur to meet the visiting Prime Minister of Pakistan, who is on a personal visit to India, is against the feeling of the people of India," Sinha told media here.
Full report at:
http://www.indianexpress.com/news/raja-pervez-ashraf-in-jaipur-outraged-bjp-slams-salman-khurshid-for-lunch-with-pakistan-pm/1085629/
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Pak PM offers prayers at Ajmer dargah amid protests by lawyers
Mar 09 2013
Ajmer : Pakistan Prime Minister Raja Parvez Ashraf today offered prayers at the dargah of Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti during his private visit here that was marked by protests.
The brief trip of 62-year-old Ashraf to the 13th century shrine hit a sour note following a boycott by the Dargah's spiritual head in protest against the recent brutal killing and beheading of Indian soldiers by the Pakistani Army.
Opposing the Pakistan premier's visit that was marked by tight security, local lawyers, some BJP activists and representatives of markets associations staged protests and shouted anti-Pakistan slogans.
Full report at:
http://www.indianexpress.com/news/pak-pm-offers-prayers-at-ajmer-dargah-amid-protests-by-lawyers/1085662/
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After Shah Rukh Khan, Irrfan Khan was stopped at US airport for being a 'Khan'
Mar 09 2013
New Delhi: My name is Khan and I am not a terrorist.
This catch dialogue from Shah Rukh Khan's movie "My Name is Khan" must have reverberated through actor Irrfan Khan's mind when he was stopped "several times" by the immigration authorities at the US airport.
"It's humiliating. They don't even disclose the reason," says Irrfan, who is one of the most recognised actors from India in Hollywood having worked in Oscar-winner 'Slumdog Millionaire', 'Life of Pi' and crowd pleaser 'Spider-Man'.
Full report at:
http://www.indianexpress.com/news/after-shah-rukh-khan-irrfan-khan-was-stopped-at-us-airport-for-being-a-khan/1085638/
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Southeast Asia
Indonesia mulls criminalising unmarried cohabiting couples
March 9, 2013
JAKARTA: Indonesia is deliberating criminalising unmarried couples living together and lengthening jail terms for adulterers, a lawmaker said Friday, in plans that activists have dubbed regressive.
The proposals were drafted by the Justice and Human Rights Ministry as the House of Representatives revises the nation’s dated criminal code, garnering support from several members.
Full report at:
http://www.dailytimes.com.pk/default.asp?page=2013\03\09\story_9-3-2013_pg4_5
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After Sealing of Bekasi Church, Another Comes Under Threat of Closure
Jakarta Globe | March 08, 2013
The Banua Niha Keriso Protestan (BNKP) in Bandung, West Java, was bracing for a confrontation on Friday after a group of local leaders demanded the church cease operations, a religious tolerance group said.
The church was told to take down all Christian icons and vacate the building by a small group led by a local neighborhood chief, according to a statement by the Indonesian Committee of Religions for Peace (ICRP).
Full report at:
http://www.thejakartaglobe.com/home/after-sealing-of-bekasi-church-another-comes-under-threat-of-closure/578329
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Europe
Muslim discrimination 'too common' in Sweden
March 08, 2013
Ahlul Bayt News Agency) - "Forserum really showed what proportions Islamophobia as well as Afrophobia can take when an entire town looks on as people have their human rights violated," Kitimbwa Sabuni told The Local on Friday.
Sabuni edited the report submitted to the UN's Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination (CERD) by the Network of Swedish Muslims (Nätverket Svenska Muslimer i Samarbete), a cooperation of several different associations, in which representatives said Sweden was failing to tackle discrimination against Muslims.
Full report at:
http://abna.ir/data.asp?lang=3&Id=398144
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Radical Muslim Abu Qatada arrested in UK
March 9, 2013
LONDON: Radical cleric, Abu Qatada, once dubbed Osama bin Laden’s right-hand man in Europe, has been arrested in London for allegedly breaching his bail conditions, officials and media said.
The arrest by the UK Border Agency came just days ahead of the British government’s latest bid to try to deport Abu Qatada to Jordan, where he was convicted in absentia of involvement in terror attacks in 1998.
Full report at:
http://dawn.com/2013/03/09/radical-muslim-abu-qatada-arrested-in-uk/
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North America
India more favoured by Americans than Israel and Mexico: Poll
By Chidanand Rajghatta, TNN | Mar 9, 2013
WASHINGTON: India has a higher favorable rating among Americans than close ally Israel or neighboring Mexico, a new Gallup poll in the US has revealed, attesting to growing people-to-people ties and strategic relationship between Washington and New Delhi.
Canada (91%) and Britain (88%) top the list of 22 countries polled for ratings, followed by Germany (85%), Japan (81%) and France (73%).
But the real surprise is sixth-paced India, which has a 68% favorable and 23% unfavorable rating, slightly higher than Israel (66-29) and Mexico (47-49).
Full report at:
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/us/India-more-favored-by-Americans-than-Israel-and-Mexico-Poll/articleshow/18872743.cms
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Osama bin Laden's son-in-law: Pleads not guilty in New York
AP | Mar 9, 2013
WASHINGTON: Sulaiman Abu Ghaith, the charismatic al-Qaida spokesman, fundraiser and son-in-law to Osama bin Laden, is likely to have a vast trove of knowledge about the terror network's central command but not much useful information about current threats or plots, intelligence officials and other experts say.
Abu Ghaith pleaded not guilty Friday to conspiring to kill Americans in propaganda videos that warned of further assaults against the United States as devastating as the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon that killed nearly 3,000 people.
Full report at:
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/us/Osama-bin-Ladens-son-in-law-Pleads-not-guilty-in-New-York/articleshow/18874327.cms
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US agents tracked bin Laden son-in-law for years before arrest
Washington, March 09, 2013
US investigators tracked Suleiman Abu Ghaith, a son-in-law of Osama bin Laden, for about 10 years before he was detained in Jordan and brought by the FBI to New York City in the past few days, US officials familiar with the investigation said. An FBI agent and a New York police detective
together spent more than a decade investigating Abu Ghaith, not only for his role as a spokesman for al Qaeda after the September 11, 2001, attacks on New York and Washington but for activities they believed he was involved in before 2001, said one official.
Full report at:
http://www.hindustantimes.com/world-news/americas/US-agents-tracked-bin-Laden-son-in-law-for-years-before-arrest/Article1-1023539.aspx
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Mideast Asia
Hamas brands Obama visit a 'trap'
Palestinian Authority should not fall in the trap of US President Barack Obama's visit to the Middle East, Hamas PM says
8 Mar 2013
The Hamas prime minister charged on Friday that an upcoming regional visit by US President Barack Obama was a "trap" aimed at undermining Palestinian reconciliation.
"We are convinced that Obama's visit will not produce the necessary breakthrough for our people," Ismail Haniya said at a sermon during weekly Muslim prayers in the Gaza Strip's Al-Omari mosque.
And he urged rival Palestinian leader Mahmud Abbas, who is due to meet Obama at his West Bank headquarters, not to be deluded by the visit or sacrifice efforts to seal Palestinian reconciliation.
Full report at:
http://english.ahram.org.eg/NewsContent/2/8/66417/World/Region/Hamas-brands-Obama-visit-a-trap.aspx
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Israel prepares for next war with Hezbollah
March 09, 2013
REVIVIM JUNCTION, Israel — On a dusty field in Israel’s southern desert, the military is gearing up for the next battle against a familiar foe: Hezbollah guerrillas in Lebanon.
As the Syrian civil war intensifies, military planners are growing increasingly jittery that the fighting could spill over into Israel, potentially dragging Hezbollah that is allied with President Bashar Assad into the fray. After battling Hezbollah to a stalemate in 2006, the Israeli military says it has learned key lessons and is prepared to inflict heavy damage on the group if fighting begins again.
Full report at:
http://www.saudigazette.com.sa/index.cfm?method=home.regcon&contentid=20130309156061
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Iran’s Ahmadinejad criticised over Chavez remarks
9 March 2013
DUBAI, March 8 — Senior Iranian clerics have criticised President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad for saying Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez will be resurrected alongside Jesus Christ and the hidden imam who Shi’ite Muslims believe will rise up to bring world peace.
Iran declared a day of national mourning on Wednesday after the death of Chavez, who shared the Islamic Republic’s loathing for what they both called US imperialism.
Ahmadinejad was among at least two dozen leaders travelling to Venezuela to attend Chavez’s funeral today.
Full report at:
http://www.themalaysianinsider.com/world/article/irans-ahmadinejad-criticised-over-chavez-remarks/
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Kingdom urges donors to fulfill Yemen aid pledges
9 March 2013
Saudi and Yemeni ministers yesterday pledged support for reconstruction efforts in Yemen.
Minister of State for Foreign Affairs and head of the kingdom’s delegation to the ministerial meeting of the Friends of Yemen in London Nizar Madani, British Foreign Secretary William Hague and Yemeni Foreign Minister Abu Bakr Al-Qirbi held a joint press conference in London at the conclusion of the meetings of the Group of Friends of Yemen at the ministerial level.
“We in fact feel a lot of optimism for the international will to help Yemen, but we are looking forward to translating this international will to steps on the ground,” Madani said.
Full report at:
http://www.arabnews.com/saudi-arabia/kingdom-urges-donors-fulfill-yemen-aid-pledges
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Arab World
Kurds Protest Iraqi Forces Sent To Disputed Region on Syrian Border
March 9, 2013
It appears that a new conflict is brewing on the horizon between Iraq’s Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) and the central Iraqi government headed by Nouri al-Maliki, following the latter’s announcement of the formation of a military force under the name of the “al-Jazeera and Badiya Force” headquartered in the city of Sinjar, which is part of disputed areas in Nineveh Province bordering Syria.
This new military dispute between Erbil and Baghdad comes a few months after the controversy of the Iraqi “Dijla (Tigris) Force,” which was stationed on the outskirts of Kirkuk and remains there, ready to face off against the Kurdish Peshmerga troops sent to the region.
Full report at:
http://www.al-monitor.com/pulse/originals/2013/03/maliki-new-force-jazeera.html#ixzz2N2QIqDeX
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Egypt raises alert level in Sinai over jihadist fears
March 09, 2013
CAIRO: Egypt's Interior Ministry told police in the Sinai peninsula to raise a state of emergency after obtaining intelligence that jihadists might attack their forces there, state news agency MENA reported.
Officials have expressed growing worries about security in the desert region which borders Israel and is home to a number of tourist resorts.
"The Minister of Interior has raised the level of emergency in North and South Sinai after receiving information that jihadist groups intend to attack police buildings there," Interior Ministry official General Osama Ismail said, according to MENA.
Full report at:
http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Middle-East/2013/Mar-09/209463-egypt-declares-state- ------------
Over 336,000 Syrian refugees in Lebanon
March 09, 2013
BEIRUT: More than 10,000 Syrian refugees registered with the U.N. refugee agency in the past week, bringing the total number of refugees who are registered or are set to register in Lebanon to 336,000.
On March 7, more than 1,050 people enrolled, the highest number to do so in a single day so far, UNHCR said Friday. It added that its new Zahle center has now been open for a week, increasing the agency’s capacity to process newcomers.
Full report at:
http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Local-News/2013/Mar-09/209426-over-336000-syrian-refugees-in-lebanon.ashx#ixzz2N34pk0YN
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UN, Syrian regime agree on truce to free peacekeepers: NGO
AFP | Mar 9, 2013
DAMASCUS: The 21 UN peacekeepers taken hostages in the Golan are expected to be freed on Saturday after the Syrian regime agreed to observe a ceasefire in deal with the United Nations, a watchdog said.
In New York the United Nations said efforts to secure the Filipinos would resume on Saturday after they were halted on Friday amid intense shelling of the area by regime forces.
"An agreement has been reached between the Syrian regime and the United Nations to stop the bombing between 10:00 am (0800 GMT) and noon (1000 GMT) on Saturday, in order to allow the evacuation of the 21 peacekeepers," Syrian Observatory for Human Rights director Rami Abdel Rahman told AFP.
Full report at:
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/middle-east/UN-Syrian-regime-agree-on-truce-to-free-peacekeepers-NGO/articleshow/18873060.cms
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Egypt court confirms death sentences in flashpoint soccer riot case
Reuters | Mar 9, 2013
CAIRO: An Egyptian court confirmed on Saturday death sentences handed down to 21 soccer fans for their role in a stadium riot which killed dozens of people in Port Said last year, a case which has provoked violent protests in the Suez Canal city.
The court also jailed two senior police officers for 15 years for their role in the riot in February 2012, in which more than 70 people died.
Full report at:
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/middle-east/Egypt-court-confirms-death-sentences-in-flashpoint-soccer-riot-case/articleshow/18879066.cms
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342 foreigners deported on criminal, terror-related charges
9 March 2013
The Kingdom has detained 551 foreigners of 41 different nationalities including Asian and Arab expatriates on crime and terror-related charges, said Maj. Gen. Mansour Al-Turki, the spokesman of the Ministry of Interior, here Thursday night. “In fact, a total of 2,772 Saudi citizens and 551 expatriates are held in security prisons across the country today,” said Al-Turki, adding that 178 people were previously arrested in Qatif by security agencies besides those detained recently in the central city of Buraidah.
Full report at:
http://www.arabnews.com/saudi-arabia/342-foreigners-deported-criminal-terror-related-charges
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Saudi rights activists given heavy jail terms
A Saudi court on Saturday dissolved a human rights group and handed down heavy jail terms to two of its members
9 Mar 2013
A judge at the criminal courts in Riyadh, ordered "the dissolution of the Saudi Association of Civil and Political Rights (ACPRA), for failing to obtain authorisation, and the seizure of its assets," an AFP correspondent reported.
Full report at:
http://english.ahram.org.eg/NewsContent/2/8/66464/World/Region/Saudi-rights-activists-given-heavy-jail-terms.aspx
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Islamists protest in Assiut against suspension of bearded policemen
In solidarity with bearded policemen, Islamists demonstrate in front of police headquarters in Assiut to demand their reinstatement
8 Mar 2013
Hundreds of Islamists protested on Friday at the police directorate in the Upper Egyptian city of Assiut to support bearded police officers banned from returning to work by the Ministry of Interior after a court last month overturned a prior ministry suspension decision.
The protest was joined by Sharia students from Al-Azhar University, members of the Salafist Raya Party, Al-Gamaa Al-Islamiya's Construction and Development Party, Ansar Al-Sunna Foundation, the Salafist Call, and Salafist Front.
Full report at:
http://english.ahram.org.eg/NewsContent/1/64/66432/Egypt/Politics-/Islamists-protest-in-Assiut-against-suspension-of-.aspx
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Angry fans torch Egypt's soccer federation headquarters
AP | Mar 9, 2013
CAIRO: Fans of Cairo's Al-Ahly club have stormed Egypt's soccer federation headquarters, setting it ablaze in anger after a court acquitted seven of nine police officials on trial for their alleged role in a deadly stadium melee last year.
Full report at:
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/middle-east/Angry-fans-torch-Egypts-soccer-federation-headquarters/articleshow/18880209.cms
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URL: https://newageislam.com/islamic-world-news/saudi-scholar-warns-random-fat/d/10712