‘So-Called Secular Parties Can’t Stop BJP’: Owaisi Calls On Muslims To Create Own Political Leadership
New Age Islam News Bureau
06 May 2026
All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) supremo Asaduddin Owaisi. (File Photo)
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· ‘So-called secular parties can’t stop BJP’: Owaisi calls on Muslims to create own political leadership
· Israel ready to deploy ‘entire air force’ against Iran if needed: new chief
· Saudi Arabia calls for de-escalation in region, backs mediation efforts
· England: Hate crime prosecutions to be fast-tracked after anti-Semitic attacks
· U.S. ‘can and must do more’ to combat anti-Muslim hate, analysts say
· At least 24 soldiers killed in suspected Boko Haram attack in Chad
· Palestinian ambassador hails Malaysia’s support, urges deeper role in post‑war rebuilding and trade
· WFP Says Aid Costs to Afghanistan Triple as Hormuz Disruptions Delay Supplies
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India
· Shared service marks Bada Mangal as Muslim residents also organise bhandaras
· Bareilly train death: Lynching allegation surfaces, GRP orders fresh probe
· Omar Abdullah, Mehbooba Mufti attack Election Commission over Bengal polls
· NIA chargesheets doctor, two others in ISIS-linked bioterror plot to poison public spaces
· ‘Secular’ parties are beginning to lose Muslim vote bank
· Sidi Saiyyed mosque’s garden revamp: Ahmedabad civic body to check clearances
· Saints, stories and soul: A journey through Bengaluru's Sufi trail
· ‘Operation Mule 2.0’ uncovers Rs 53 crore scam, links to Baba Siddique case emerge
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Mideast
· US wants ‘concrete actions’ on Iran from next Iraqi PM
· Iran says no damage after drone interception near Qeshm, SNN reports
· PKK urges Turkiye to overcome ‘obstacles’ in peace process
· Israeli military issues evacuation warning for 12 villages and towns in southern Lebanon
· Fire at a shopping centre in Iran kills 8 people and injures 36
· Would you believe it ... beds in Gaza made from discarded pallets
· Palestinian president’s son to seek a key role in Fatah
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Arab World
· Saudi Arabia condemns drone attack on Khartoum airport
· Saudi and Jordanian foreign ministers discuss regional developments
· Indonesian Hajj pilgrims praise Makkah Route initiative, smart services
· KSrelief delivers medical, food aid to vulnerable communities
· Team from Al-Ahsa praised by governor for its work on the UNESCO Creative Cities Network
· Pottery in Madinah emerges as key driver in creative economy
· Saudi individual patent filings surge 102% in 2025
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Europe
· Former synagogue in 'arson attack' was planned for mosque conversion
· Franklin Templeton launches two Shariah compliant funds
· Azerbaijan, Islamic Development Bank explore cooperation
· Reform candidate investigated for anti-mosque post
· Campaigning sprint finish ahead of elections around Britain tomorrow
· Germany was never fully ‘denazified’ after WWII – Medvedev
· Ukrainian drone strike kills five civilians in Crimea – governor
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North America
· Democrats want Trump to lift lid on Israeli nukes
· Trump says US to pause operation to guide vessels through Strait of Hormuz
· Mission is to preach peace, says Pope in response to Trump attacks
· Gilchrist County man sentenced for threatening reporter, Muslims, political leaders
· Trump-backed Vivek Ramaswamy wins Republican nomination for Ohio governor
· 'Operation Epic Fury concluded': Trump aide declares 'objectives achieved' in Iran action
· Israeli beauty queen says she bumped into Zohran Mamdani's wife at a cafe, Rama Duwaji 'refused to engage'
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Africa
· Xenophobic Attacks: You Are Blinded By Your Selfish Interest – Okai Blasts Orji Kalu
· Muslim leaders deny role in Ani’s arrest in Enugu
· Alleged Coup: ‘N10m paid to me was for prayers’ – Cleric
· Islam Has Suffered Reputational Damage Under Tinubu – Datti Baba-Ahmed
· Nigeria targets $2tr halal meat market
· Uganda parliament passes controversial ‘Sovereignty Bill' after amendments
· Obi, Kwankwaso Supporters Insist Presidency Should Remain In South
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Southeast Asia
· Government sets strict conditions for pig farming, limits sites away from residential areas
· Deeper Malaysia–Philippines partnership crucial to shaping Asean’s future, says former Yang di-Pertua Negeri of Penang
· Anwar to lead Malaysian delegation to Cebu for 48th Asean Summit
· King departs for Moscow at Putin’s invitation for Victory Day events
· Saudi envoy praises Malaysia ties, highlights smoother Haj services and reforms, says ‘daging dendeng’ a favourite
· Pahang Sultan grants audience to Singapore’s Lee Hsien Loong and delegation
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South Asia
· Workers’ rights fully ensured within Islamic Sharia framework: Omari
· ‘Can’t sit and wait for India on Teesta’
· PM stresses transparency in spending public money
· Urban Ministry Denies Any Plan to Move Kabul Mandawi
· Former Pakistan Envoy Says Afghanistan Stability Hinges on Inclusive Rule
· IEA’s Structural Changes: Newly Appointed Officials Hoped Do More for People
Compiled by New Age Islam News Bureau
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‘So-called secular parties can’t stop BJP’: Owaisi calls on Muslims to create own political leadership
Nikhila Henry
May 5, 2026
All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) supremo Asaduddin Owaisi. (File Photo)
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All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) supremo Asaduddin Owaisi said on Tuesday that the “so-called secular parties will not be able to stop the BJP” and that Muslims should create their own political leadership. He was addressing a press conference held in Hyderabad, a day after the West Bengal Assembly election results were declared.
Owaisi’s party fielded 11 candidates in the election. All of them were defeated, and the AIMIM got a total vote share of 0.09% in West Bengal.
Elaborating on his charge against “secular parties”, Owaisi said that in Delhi, Arvind Kejriwal’s AAP had tried their hand at “soft-Hindutva”.
“In Maharashtra, Uddhav Thackery’s party and the undivided Nationalist Congress Party had all tried their hand at soft Hindutva. Similarly, in Bengal, we have seen Mamata Banerjee adopt the same tactics,” he said.
Despite this, Kejriwal lost power in Delhi and so did Banerjee in Bengal, he said, adding, “She has been in power for the past 15 years, and if you go to Malda, Musheerabad or if you read government documents, you will know that the most marginalised community in Bengal are the Muslims. If you see their socio-economic indicators, it clearly shows marginalisation. If you go to Malda, Musheerabad, you will know that Muslims, especially Muslim women, are living in abject poverty,” Owaisi said.
“This whole [image] creation of Mamata Banerjee as a liberal secular leader is not seen on the ground in West Bengal. And there was huge anti-incumbency,” Owaisi said.
“Muslims should try to create their own independent political leadership. Your vote is getting wasted because you are casting your vote in favour of so-called secular parties, which are not secular. They have failed to stop the BJP,” he said. He added that Mamata Banerjee had, in fact, helped the BJP in the past.
“Historically, in 1998, the first BJP MP to get elected from West Bengal was Mr Tapan Singh, who was supported by TMC. Mamata Banerjee got the first BJP MP elected in 1998. She was part of Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s Cabinet as Railway minister…,” he said.
“So, it is high time that Muslims unite and create their own political leadership. At least, you will have a voice to raise your marginalisation and injustice. Reposing faith in these so-called secular parties has not given any development or eradicated injustice and discrimination,” Owaisi said.
Owaisi congratulated the Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF), which routed the Left Democratic Alliance (LDF) in Kerala. “I am sure that the MLAs of IUML (the Indian Union Muslim League) will be able to safeguard the interests of the Muslims in the state,” Owaisi said. IUML is an integral ally of the Congress in Kerala.
Owaisi added, “The people of West Bengal have given power to the BJP. We have to respect that decision. It is the people’s decision.”
Source: indianexpress.com
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https://indianexpress.com/article/india/secular-parties-cant-stop-bjp-owaisi-muslims-create-political-leadership-10674553/
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Israel ready to deploy ‘entire air force’ against Iran if needed: new chief
May 05, 2026
An Israeli fighter jet departing a hangar at an undisclosed location in Israel, October 26, 2024. (Files / AFP)
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JERUSALEM: Israel’s new air force chief Major General Omer Tischler said on Tuesday that the country was prepared to deploy its entire fleet of fighter jets against Iran if necessary.
He spoke weeks into a fragile ceasefire in the Middle East war, which erupted when Israel and the United States launched strikes against Iran in February.
“We are closely monitoring the developments in Iran and are prepared to deploy the entire air force eastward if required,” Tischler said at a ceremony where he assumed command from his predecessor Major General Tomer Bar.
“The air force will continue to act with determination, with power and with responsibility against threats in every arena, at every stage and against every enemy.”
Born in 1975 in northern Israel, Tischler is a career airman who rose through the ranks as a combat pilot and commander.
Speaking at the same ceremony, Israel’s military chief Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir said the country remained “on high alert across all fronts.”
He said the military was “prepared to respond with force to any attempt to harm Israel.”
Since Hamas’s attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, the Israeli air force has conducted an extensive and sustained air campaign across multiple fronts, particularly in Gaza, Lebanon and Iran.
Source: arabnews.com
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https://www.arabnews.com/node/2642460/middle-east
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Saudi Arabia calls for de-escalation in region, backs mediation efforts
May 06, 2026
Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. (SPA)
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RIYADH: The Saudi government on Tuesday called for regional deescalation in the ongoing war between US and Israel on one side and Iran on the other, backing Pakistani mediation efforts to help bring the conflict to a resolution.
“The Cabinet reviewed current regional developments, stressing the need for deescalation and supporting Pakistani mediation and diplomatic efforts to reach a political solution that spares the region further tension and instability,” the Saudi Press Agency reported.
“The Cabinet reiterated the importance of restoring the freedom of international navigation in the Strait of Hormuz to its normal state as it was before Feb. 28, ensuring the safe and unhindered passage of ships,” the report said.
The Cabinet session in Jeddah was chaired by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
The conflict has reignited this week after attacks by Iran rocked a ceasefire that began on April 8.
On Monday, the UAE and Oman said Iran had fired drones and missiles toward their territory.
The crown prince briefed ministers about his call with President of the UAE Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. Prince Mohammed “condemned the Iranian attacks targeting the UAE and affirmed Saudi Arabia’s support for the UAE in its defense of its security and stability,” SPA said.
The US also said they had destroyed six Iranian boats on Monday.
Iran said it had struck a US frigate in the Strait of Hormuz, which has been effectively closed to shipping since the war began on Feb. 28, drastically impacting energy shipping causing oil and gas prices to soar.
The escalation follows the US President Donald Trump’s announcement that the US military will help stranded ships traverse the Hormuz.
Source: arabnews.com
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https://www.arabnews.com/node/2642472/saudi-arabia
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England: Hate crime prosecutions to be fast-tracked after anti-Semitic attacks
6 MAY 2026
Olivia Ireland
Hate crime prosecutions are to be fast-tracked following a spate of recent antisemitic incidents, the head of the Crown Prosecution Service has said.
Director of public prosecutions Stephen Parkinson has told prosecutors in England and Wales to bring charges more quickly, in order to clamp down on "daily incidents affecting the Jewish community, involving threats and abuse designed to cause fear and distress".
He told BBC News it "is important law enforcement steps up and recognises we are in a period of crisis for the Jewish community".
The intervention comes after two Jewish men were stabbed in Golders Green, and a number of arson incidents in areas with large Jewish communities.
Parkinson stressed the new guidance applies to all hate crimes, but that it had been necessary to announce now due to the "very significant spike" in antisemitic incidents.
He pointed to the success of swift arrests and prosecutions in bringing to an end riots which broke out nationally in the wake of the Southport attack in 2024.
We're acting quickly in order to build confidence, but also to bring crime to a halt," the chief prosecutor continued.
"In the Southport riots two years ago, when the police, prosecutors and the courts worked together and worked swiftly, the riots came to an end.
"The action I'm taking won't be the whole solution, I'm afraid, to antisemitism - but it would be part of the solution to show that law enforcement is taking this seriously and we're acting on the front foot."
Parkinson said he had urged prosecutors to make a charging decision as soon as they have seen the "core evidence" in order to speed up the process, rather than delaying to "present a perfect case".
He continued: "If we can strengthen the case thereafter, we can do so - but it's important that the Jewish community sees and has confidence we will take action."
In the last year there were 137,550 suspected hate crime incidents in total recorded by police forces in England and Wales, but less than a tenth result in criminal charges being issued.
Asked why only a small percentage of cases make it to court, Parkinson said one of the reasons was "victim attrition" - when someone impacted by crime decides not to engage with the justice process, often out of a lack of faith it will lead to a conviction.
He continued: "Reports are made but victims are just not prepared to stay with the process for reasons that are entirely understandable, including the delays that they experience in the justice system."
Parkinson also said police needed to gather evidence more quickly to "get the whole process energised".
He warned there is evidence that high-profile antisemitic incidents lead to a rise in related offences against Jewish people, adding: "I've had reported to me today an increase in instances over the last weekend, and that seems to be the pattern.
"We're starting to record specifically crimes of antisemitism, and indeed against the Muslim community, so we can chart specifically the impact on different communities."
Source: bbc.com
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https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cz72eye5zzeo
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U.S. ‘can and must do more’ to combat anti-Muslim hate, analysts say
May 5, 2026
Muslim worshipper Ahmed Alkhekani attends Eid al-Fitr prayer at the Islamic Institute of America in Dearborn Heights, Mich., on Friday, March 20, 2026. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya) **FILE**
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Specialists on religious bias against Muslims said Tuesday that the U.S. must do better when it comes to supporting religious freedom, warning against the normalization of prejudice.
Arsalan Suleman, a partner in Foley Hoag’s International Litigation & Arbitration Practice, told the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom during a hearing that the U.S. “can and must do more” to support international religious freedom and accountability for violations of religious freedom.
He also said the U.S. does not have a spotless domestic record on religious freedom and needs to improve it to set a positive example internationally.
“Too many U.S. politicians propagate hatred against Muslims and members of other religions,” Mr. Suleman said. “Such pernicious rhetoric must be condemned, and we should ensure that those fleeing religious persecution abroad are able to seek asylum in our country, rather than face categorical exclusion.”
There have been recent examples of anti-Muslim rhetoric in Congress, such as Rep. Randy Fine, Florida Republican, saying on social media: “We need more Islamophobia, not less. Fear of Islam is rational.”
Both Mr. Suleman and Vicky Hartzler, chair of the commission, said action to combat violence against Muslims has significant U.S. national security implications, with Ms. Hartzler citing the Trump administration’s bilateral and multilateral relations with Muslim-majority governments, particularly those in the Middle East.
“In abandoning our international leadership role on this issue, we are promoting lawlessness internationally,” Mr. Suleman said. “If we fail to end impunity at home and abroad, then cycles of violence and atrocities will continue to occur with devastating consequences.”
The commission is an independent, bipartisan body that monitors religious freedom abroad and makes policy recommendations to the federal government.
Rep. French Hill said in a video message that central to his Catholic faith is that everyone deserves to worship freely without fear of harassment, imprisonment or violence, “not just those who believe what I believe.”
“The United States must stand firmly on the side of freedom of religion or belief for everyone, everywhere,” the Arkansas Republican said.
Mr. Suleman’s recommendations are threefold: The U.S. must consistently and impartially apply existing tools to combat religious freedom violations, support and strengthen international mechanisms for accountability, and make justice and accountability national security priorities.
The U.S. can also strengthen its domestic criminal law for accountability purposes, he said. While federal law allows for the potential criminal prosecution of genocide and war crimes, the U.S. does not have legislation that would allow prosecution of those responsible for crimes against humanity.
Internationally, he said the U.S. should cease destructive and counterproductive efforts against multilateral human rights institutions, including not sanctioning the International Criminal Court. Mr. Suleman also cautioned against President Trump’s initiatives to withdraw the U.S. from international bodies that document attacks on religious freedom, such as the United Nations Human Rights Council.
Existing tools that can also combat religious freedom violations include sanctions, suspensions of aid, trade consequences, diplomatic censure and other political expressions of condemnation, Mr. Suleman said.
Source: washingtontimes.com
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https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2026/may/5/us-must-combat-anti-muslim-hate-analysts-say/
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At least 24 soldiers killed in suspected Boko Haram attack in Chad
May 6, 2026
Chad's armed forces said at least 24 soldiers have been killed in an overnight attack by Boko Haram militants on an army post in the Lake Chad region.
The area has long been threatened by the Nigeria-based group, which is known for carrying out assaults in neighbouring countries.
Army sources say the raid at the Barka Tolorom base late on Monday left 46 wounded on the Chadian side. An administrative official in the region said the situation was now under control.
The military site is on the shores of Lake Chad, which straddles Cameroon, Niger, Nigeria, and Chad. Its islands provide a refuge for various militants, including Boko Haram and other radical Islamist groups.
In a post on Facebook on Tuesday, Chadian President Mahamat Idriss Déby offered his condolences to the families of the dead soldiers.
The army has increasingly come under fire from Boko Haram in the Lake Chad region, with an October 2024 attack leaving some 40 dead in the Chadian army's ranks.
Recent months have also seen a surge in attacks by the group's JAS faction, including kidnappings and attacks on advanced army positions,
Déby said the country would continue fighting, “with renewed determination”, until the threat from militant groups was completely eradicated
In response to the October 2024 attack, Deby launched a counter-offensive which he vowed to "personally" lead on the ground for two weeks.
After that offensive ended in February 2025, the army insisted that Boko Haram had "no more sanctuary on Chadian territory".
Lake Chad's islands and marshes also serve as a haven for Boko Haram's rival splinter group, the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP).
Source: africanews.com
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https://www.africanews.com/2026/05/05/at-least-24-soldiers-killed-in-suspected-boko-haram-attack-in-chad/
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Palestinian ambassador hails Malaysia’s support, urges deeper role in post‑war rebuilding and trade
06 May 2026
KUALA LUMPUR, May 6 — Palestine’s Ambassador to Malaysia Jehad Fouad Alqdra has praised Malaysia as one of Palestine’s most consistent and principled international supporters in its enduring struggle for statehood and self-determination.
He said the country has consistently demonstrated unwavering support for the Palestinian cause, both at the government and public levels.
He reaffirmed that while bilateral ties are firmly rooted in solidarity, mutual respect, and shared humanitarian values, Palestine also seeks to advance cooperation with Malaysia in broader areas such as in economy and trade.
“I come here with clear mandate from by my president, Mahmoud Abbas and prime minister, Mohammad Mustafa. They have instructed me to further strengthen the relationships with Malaysia.
“And I am lucky in this matter because I do not have any problems conveying the Palestinian narrative to the government and people of Malaysia. Malaysia has long [been] aware of the situation since the beginning and supporting us all the time,” he told Bernama in an interview at his office.
Describing Malaysia as an important partner with strong regional and global linkages, Alqdra believed Putrajaya could further leverage its influence on regional and global platforms, as well as in multilateral forums, to rally stronger support for Palestine and highlight the ongoing humanitarian plights in the occupied territories.
“We hope Malaysia can use its good relations with other countries to support our cause,” he said.
On bilateral relations, Alqdra who assumed his position here in October last year, underscored plans to strengthen cooperation, including efforts to operationalise the Joint Committee Meeting, which was established in 2022 to enhance collaboration in tourism, trade, health, and Islamic affairs.
“That said, we also look forward to arranging an official visit by Palestinian Foreign Minister to Malaysia at soonest time possible.
“Malaysia has always been close to us, and we are working to bring this relationship to a higher level,” he added.
The ambassador also invited Malaysia to participate in post-war reconstruction efforts in Gaza.
He highlighted the deplorable situation as a result of Israel’s ceaseless attacks since October 7, 2023, pointing out that more than 80 per cent of the enclave has suffered devastations of key infrastructure and public facilities such as hospitals, schools, and housing blocks.
“We are appealing to governments and friends to participate in rebuilding efforts once the situation stabilised.
“We hoped Malaysia too would be able to take a more active role in the reconstruction process, bringing in their technology and building expertise to help us,” he said.
Alqdra stressed the need for a structured and meaningful approach, adding that participation in rebuilding projects such as housing, hospitals, and educational institutions would benefit the larger Palestinian community in Gaza. — Bernama
Source: malaymail.com
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https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2026/05/06/palestinian-ambassador-hails-malaysias-support-urges-deeper-role-in-postwar-rebuilding-and-trade/218906
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WFP Says Aid Costs to Afghanistan Triple as Hormuz Disruptions Delay Supplies
By Fidel Rahmati
May 5, 2026
World Food Programme said the cost of transporting food aid to Afghanistan has tripled due to disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, forcing major changes to supply routes.
WFP Afghanistan head John Aylieff said vital supplies, including fortified biscuits, are now shipped from Dubai and transported through land routes across seven countries, increasing costs and delays.
The agency said the alternative routes have added about three weeks to delivery times, slowing the distribution of essential food assistance to vulnerable families and children.
Higher transport costs and longer supply chains are putting additional pressure on humanitarian operations and limiting the reach of aid efforts.
Afghanistan faces widespread food insecurity, with millions relying on humanitarian assistance after years of economic decline, conflict and climate shocks.
Rising global fuel prices and continued disruption to key maritime routes have made aid delivery more difficult, especially for landlocked countries.
The Strait of Hormuz is a critical global trade route, and instability there has direct effects on supply chains and humanitarian logistics.
Aid agencies warn that continued disruption could worsen hunger levels, especially among children who depend on regular nutrition support.
Without stable routes and increased funding, humanitarian groups say the crisis could deepen further in the coming months.
Source: khaama.com
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https://www.khaama.com/wfp-says-aid-costs-to-afghanistan-triple-as-hormuz-disruptions-delay-supplies/
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India
Shared service marks Bada Mangal as Muslim residents also organise bhandaras
May 6, 2026
Lucknow: Living up to its famed Ganga-Jamuni tehzeeb, several Muslim residents also organised bhandaras across the city on the first Bada Mangal on Tuesday. Among those serving food, water and refreshments to people in the summer heat was Harman Iftekhar of Phoolbagh, who has been hosting bhandaras for the past two years. This year, he set up a stall at Nazarbagh, focusing especially on rickshaw pullers and passers-by by offering chilled water. He was also seen collecting litter around the site to keep the area clean.
“I don’t see this as charity. If someone visits our stall and leaves with a smile, that’s my real reward,” Harman said.
In Mahanagar, Sabiha Ahmad and her friend Poonam Singh organised a bhandara together, describing the effort as an expression of friendship and shared social responsibility rather than ritual alone. “We may come from different backgrounds, but here we only see people who need food and care,” said Sabiha.
She added that she later distributed snacks among underprivileged children and considers the work 'sawab' (spiritual reward earned through good deeds).
Farhan Ahmed, a doctor at Rewanta Hospital, also took part by serving puri-sabzi and sherbet. “As a doctor, my duty is to save lives in the hospital, but here I feel I am also healing hunger and thirst in this intense summer,” he said.
He was joined by his friend Mohammad Jafar Raza, who brought homemade gujiyas prepared by his wife, Shaheen.
Syed Mohd Asad, a third-generation member of the lineage of Ali Shah Badshah, said continuing the practice was his way of preserving empathy and supporting those in need.
Atif Hanif said such efforts reflect 'sakhawat' or the spirit of generosity and sharing.
Syed Mohd Asad, a third-generation member of the lineage of Ali Shah Badshah, said continuing the practice was his way of preserving empathy and supporting those in need.
Source: indiatimes.com
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https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/lucknow/shared-service-marks-bada-mangal-as-muslim-residents-also-organise-bhandaras/articleshowprint/130838769.cms
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Bareilly train death: Lynching allegation surfaces, GRP orders fresh probe
Piyush Srivastava
06.05.26
A woman has alleged that her husband was lynched by a mob aboard a train in Bareilly last week because he had a beard and wore a skull cap.
Tabassum Khatun of Bakhatoli village in Bihar’s Kishanganj district has challenged the Government Railway Police’s (GRP) theory that her husband Maulana Tausif Raza was sitting close to the door of the Yog Nagari Rishikesh-Muzaffarpur Special (04314) when he slipped, hit a pole along the tracks and died on April 26.
“He had called me at 9.45pm on that night and said that some people were beating him up without any reason. He videocalled me soon after, and I saw some people dragging him. Suddenly, the screen went dark,” Tabassum was quoted as telling the GRP, which recovered Maulana’s body a few hours after the incident.
Tabassum told reporters that her husband had arrived in Bareilly to attend a religious event. He had studied at Darul Uloom Mazhar E Islam, a madrasa in Bareilly, till 2018 and still stayed in touch with the people there.
GRP inspector S.K. Verma said: “We have registered a case against unidentified miscreants based on the complaint of the deceased and started an inquiry afresh. We had recovered his body from the tracks on April 27 from near the Palpur railway crossing in the district.”
“The post-mortem report showed fractures in his skull at two places, injury marks on his body and bruises on his back. We had recovered a bag, Aadhaar and PAN cards, some religious texts and ₹2,540 belonging to the deceased,” the officer added.
Tabassum has given a 30-second video clip purporting to show the assault on her husband to the police.
Tausif Nurani, a teacher of the deceased at the madrasa, said: “He was a disciplined person and could never fight with anybody. We also don’t believe that he would sit at the door of a train. We want the government to probe the case seriously.”
Tabassum and several Muslim organisations have written to chief minister Yogi Adityanath to hand over the probe to the CBI.
AIMIM secretary Mukhtar Ahmad said: “We are disturbed after the incident. It is the responsibility of the government to protect citizens. Unfortunately, such incidents are not new in the state. We have written to the railway minister, chief minister, director- general of police of Uttar Pradesh and the GRP chief to probe the case and make the truth public.”
Source: telegraphindia.com
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https://www.telegraphindia.com/india/bareilly-train-death-lynching-allegation-probe-grp-inquiry-maulana-tausif-case-prnt/cid/2159189
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Omar Abdullah, Mehbooba Mufti attack Election Commission over Bengal polls
Muzaffar Raina
06.05.26
Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Omar Abdullah and Opposition leader Mehbooba Mufti on Tuesday launched a scathing attack on the Election Commission over its conduct of the Bengal polls, with the PDP chief accusing it of subverting India’s electoral process.
Omar on Monday posted “bloody hell” on his X handle, with an emoticon reflecting shock amid a setback for Mamata Banerjee in Bengal and the M.K. Stalin-led government in Tamil Nadu, provoking strong opposition from the BJP.
Mehbooba, however, struck a belligerent note, accusing the poll panel of subverting electoral processes in the country.
“India was once admired as a global model for free and fair elections, especially after T.N. Seshan transformed ECI into a fearless guardian of democracy. Today, that very institution stands accused of subverting the electoral process, aided by central agencies,” Mehbooba wrote on X. “A tragic fall. We may not have become ‘Vishwaguru’, but we seem to have mastered the art of electoral manipulation. Bengal is the latest reminder of this disturbing reality.”
Omar told PTI that the EC’s role in Bengal had come under scrutiny because of “the way they went about the process of delimitation and finalisation of electoral rolls”, saying it raises questions. “I do believe that the Election Commission has done itself no favour in the way in which it has gone about both the process of delimitation and the process of finalisation of electoral rolls,” he said. He accused the poll panel of messing up the election process in Bengal.
Omar is already facing criticism from the BJP over his outburst after Monday’s electoral results. The leader of Opposition in the Assembly, the BJP’s Sunil Sharma, criticised the chief minister for his outburst, accusing him of disrespecting democratic processes and the public mandate. Sharma said the BJP had been making plans for over a year for the next Jammu and Kashmir elections, scheduled to be held in 2029.
Omar’s father and National Conference president Farooq Abdullah on Tuesday said the people’s verdict in the recently declared election results in four states and one Union Territory must be respected.
Source: telegraphindia.com
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https://www.telegraphindia.com/india/omar-abdullah-mehbooba-mufti-election-commission-bengal-polls-criticism-prnt/cid/2159196
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NIA chargesheets doctor, two others in ISIS-linked bioterror plot to poison public spaces
06.05.26
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has chargesheeted three individuals, including a Hyderabad-based doctor, for their alleged involvement in an ISIS-linked conspiracy to carry out mass poisoning in public places using a highly toxic biological agent.
According to an official statement issued on Tuesday, the accused — Dr Syed Ahmed Mohiuddin from Hyderabad, along with Azad and Mohammad Suhel from Uttar Pradesh — have been chargesheeted before a special NIA court in Ahmedabad, Gujarat.
The NIA said the trio was operating under the guidance of foreign-based handlers linked to the Islamic State and had worked in a coordinated manner to recruit vulnerable, radicalised youth. Their objective was to support jihad and spread terror using prohibited weapons and bioterrorism methods.
Investigators revealed that the accused had planned to use ricin, a highly toxic substance derived from castor seeds and classified under Schedule I of the Chemical Weapons Convention, to execute the "nefarious agenda of ISIS".
The case was initially registered by the Gujarat Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) in November 2025 following the arrest of Dr Mohiuddin. He was apprehended at a toll plaza while allegedly carrying illegal weapons, a bottle containing four litres of castor oil, and other incriminating materials in his vehicle. Subsequent investigation led to the arrest of Azad and Suhel on the same day.
The probe further found that Azad and Suhel had collected parcels containing money and prohibited weapons from a dead-drop location in Hanumangarh, Rajasthan, and delivered them to a site in Chhatral, Gujarat, for Mohiuddin to retrieve.
After taking over the investigation in January 2026, the NIA uncovered that Mohiuddin had allegedly been promised the position of ISIS "Amir" of South Asia by his handler. He is also accused of converting his Hyderabad residence into a clandestine laboratory for the preparation of ricin.
The agency stated that Azad and Suhel were active participants in the conspiracy, maintaining communication with handlers, managing terror funds, conducting reconnaissance, and handling illegal arms and ammunition.
Suhel, in particular, acted as a key link between the handler and other accused, facilitating recruitment, coordination, and the transfer of funds and weapons consignments. He also conducted reconnaissance, recorded Bay'ah (oath of allegiance) videos, and prepared ISIS flags, the statement added.
Source: telegraphindia.com
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‘Secular’ parties are beginning to lose Muslim vote bank
R JAGANNATHAN
06 May, 2026
If India is to meet its main economic, social and geopolitical challenges, Muslim politics has to change. The post-1947 approach of the “secular” parties – which has been about making symbolic concessions to appease Muslims and then dividing the Hindu vote using various means – is now past its sell-by date. Both Muslims and Hindus have seen past this strategy. Muslims are no longer buying the “secular” argument, though not in sufficient numbers yet to make a difference. They still vote en bloc to keep the “communal” BJP out. Hindus are also beginning to see the negative impact of divisive caste and Muslim appeasement politics, and sometimes choosing to vote in a tactical way – as they did in West Bengal and Assam in the recent assembly elections.
In West Bengal, the widely expected Muslim polarisation in favour of Mamata Banerjee did not happen on a scale where she could have won. According to an analysis by The Times of India (5 May 2026), in the 142 seats where Muslim numbers were above the state average, the BJP won 72 seats and the Trinamool Congress 64. Mamata would probably have fared worse if the alliance between Asaduddin Owaisi’s AIMIM and Trinamool dropout Humayun Kabir’s Aam Janata Unnayan Party had stayed in alliance and further had seat alignments with the Left or Congress.
In Assam, thanks to the redistricting that restricted Muslim dominant seats to 22 against an earlier 35 out of a total of 26, the Congress and the Muslim-led AUDF got 20. Only in Keralam did the Muslim vote make a huge difference, with the United Democratic Front winning 38 of the 44 seats where Muslims numbered over 30 percent, and nine of the 11 seats in central and southern Keralam where they had significant numbers. But in Kerala the Muslim party, the Indian Union Muslim League, which campaigned for partition before 1947 and then changed its stripes, aligns with the Congress on its own terms. In short, there is no secular UDF, only a UDF that has Muslim, Christian and Hindu elements in it. There is no melting pot secularism in Kerala, with language being the main unifier.
In Tamil Nadu, an overtly minority-favouring and Hindu-baiting DMK has been shown the door in the assembly elections, with the Tamizhaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), led by a Christian, drawing a lot of Hindu votes – though not for religious reasons. Actor Joseph Vijay, who started the party barely two years ago, has broadly steered clear of the DMK’s divisive Dravidian politics and also kept himself equidistant from all religions – at least the part that is visible to the public. This suggests that performative politics will now determine the future of which community votes for whom in Tamil Nadu, and not which party represents which community the best.
In other elections, parties like the AIMIM have managed to knock out “secular” parties like Samajwadi in local body elections in Maharashtra, and other parties in assembly elections in Bihar.
The endless tapping into Muslim vote banks by “secular” parties is now slowly, if painfully, beginning to wane.
While this is the underlying message for all parties, including the BJP, how Muslims themselves embrace non-sectarian politics will be a crucial determinant of whether we end up with the separatist politics of MA Jinnah, or a genuine politics where communities keep their identities at bay, and work towards their collective good through dialogue and compromise.
The fact is even a Humayun Kabir seeks to get Muslim votes by proposing to build a Babri Masjid in West Bengal, and Owaisi has yet to reconcile with the reality of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, Nor has he even acknowledged that there is some unfinished work to be done to assuage Hindu feelings in places where iconoclastic rulers destroyed temples repeatedly.
India will become less polarised and less sectarian when a Muslim can be elected from a Hindu majority constituency, and vice-versa. We are far from that situation now, as narrow-minded politicians want vote banks, not citizens.
Muslims, for their part, should be asking themselves why reformists among them, like Arif Mohammed Khan, have to find refuge only in the BJP and are sometimes seen as traitors to the community. They should be embracing the politics of the late Hamid Dalwai, who sought deep reforms within the Muslim community, but the broader community never accepted him or his reforms. He is not a hero to the Muslim community even today, and for “secularists”, he is anathema. No “secular” party has asked Muslims to embrace reforms. On the contrary they oppose waqf or divorce reforms, or even the uniform civil code, in the belief that this is what Muslims want. The goal of our “secular” parties is to keep Muslims isolated and fearful.
It is time Muslims themselves stopped seeing themselves as only Muslims, seeking to differentiate and distance themselves from Hindus in every possible way, whether it is in adopting yoga for good health, singing Vande Mataram, or retaining some of their Hindu customs (which organisations like the Tablighi Jamaat want to eradicate).
They should be seeking wider relationships with fellow citizens. Their quam is not the global umma, but fellow Indians. Just as Hindu parties like the BJP should seek to understand and accommodate Muslim aspirations of a secular nature, Muslim politicians should be willing to espouse Hindu causes like – for example – the freeing of Hindu temples from state control and seeking a negotiated settlement for contested spaces like Kashi and Mathura in return for benefits to the community.
There are some hopeful signs, with RSS Sarsanghachalak Mohan Bhagwat meeting some Muslim intellectuals, and, more recently, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval meeting with Muslim leaders to understand the community’s concerns. After Operation Sindoor, Asaduddin Owaisi was a critical member of the national outreach teams sent to foreign countries to explain India’s position on Pakistan-based terrorism.
But these engagements are too sporadic and too meagre to bridge Hindu-Muslim mistrust. They have to be expanded.
And one cannot repeat this enough: It is also high time Muslims themselves took the trouble to engage with Hindus and Hindu organisations. It takes two hands to clap.
Source: theprint.in
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Sidi Saiyyed mosque’s garden revamp: Ahmedabad civic body to check clearances
May 6, 2026
Ahmedabad: The garden redevelopment of the iconic Sidi Saiyyed mosque is under review, with the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) convening an emergency meeting of the state govt-appointed Heritage Conservation Committee (HCC) over the project conditions set by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). The decision to meet comes after Tuesday's site visit by civic chief Banchha Nidhi Pani. The proposal currently before the HCC places on record the ASI conditional approval, which mandates that the AMC must obtain all ‘other requisite approvals' before work around the monument commences. Mandatory among them are nods by the National Monument Authority (NMA). "We need to check if NMA has given all requisite clearances for the project," said a senior AMC official.
The project received ASI's "conditional nod" on Sep 2 last year. ASI's directive prioritizes the structural integrity of the 16th-century monument and its intricately carved stone jali. The ASI letter states that a strict 10-ft buffer zone must be maintained from the mosque's wall , free from any construction or barricading, during the project. It further adds, "To safeguard the foundation, all existing hedges or plantations within this radius must be removed." The letter also mandates that a proper compound wall with suitable design and elevation be constructed, as already proposed, in consultation with and subject to approval of the superintending archaeologist.
On technical compliance, the ASI has stated, "All new civil works must be fully reversible and maintain zero direct structural connection with the mosque's fabric." The ASI has restricted construction to lime-based or compatible traditional materials to prevent irreversible damage. Furthermore, surface drainage must be engineered to ensure runoffs are directed away from the monument.
Aesthetically, the redevelopment — including the proposed China mosaic and a simple fountain — must harmonize with the monument's existing colour palette. Lighting and CCTV installations are permitted only if fixtures and cabling are not done on the mosque's structure, ASI's conditional approval says.
The plan also introduces modern standards of inclusivity, requiring accessibility features for the elderly and differently-abled. The ASI has ordered "a comprehensive design revision to align with these conditions before any work begins on-site".
Source: indiatimes.com
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Saints, stories and soul: A journey through Bengaluru's Sufi trail
May 6, 2026
Beyond its tech corridors and fast-paced life, there exists a Bengaluru steeped in spiritual history. Among the many influences that have shaped the city’s cultural fabric, Sufism holds a gentle yet enduring presence, long predating Bengaluru’s modern identity.
The Hazrat Tawakkal Mastan Dargah in Cottonpet/Upparpet remains one of the oldest and most significant shrine in Bengaluru, till date
Saqlain, of Bengaluru Prayana
Heritage and History
Sufism in Bengaluru centres on three revered saints — Hazrat Tawakkal Mastan, Hazrat Manik Mastan and Hazrat Tipu Mastan — closely linked to Hyder Ali’s late 18th-century fortification works. “Evidence points to the 17th and 18th centuries as the period when major Sufi shrines and lineages became visible around the old fort and trading quarters. The Hazrat Tawakkal Mastan Dargah in Cottonpet/Upparpet remains one of the oldest and most significant in the city,” says Saqlain of Bengaluru Prayana.
Jayamahal’s Sufi connection
Another area closely associated with Sufism is Jayamahal. Even today, the fragrance of incense and flowers lingers in the air along Nandidurga Road, where several dargahs stand. “These shrines are located within a Muslim burial ground known as the Quddus Sahab Burial Ground. The area once extended up to the present government bungalows and stretched till Jayamahal Palace. As the city expanded, this space gradually shrank and is now confined to graveyards on either side of Nandidurga Road,” explains Saqlain.
While the geography may have changed, the spiritual pull of these shrines remains intact. Devotees — cutting across faiths — visit to offer chadars, light incense, tie threads of hope and partake in simple community meals, keeping alive a tradition rooted in inclusivity and shared belief.
sufi trail package max (12)
Sufi hubs in the city
Key Sufi clusters in Bengaluru are located in and around Cottonpet/Upparpet, Chickpet, Avenue Road, OTC Road, KR Market, Ulsoor Gate and the old market belt. Oral histories and local accounts suggest that the dargah of Hazrath Naukullah Shah Qadri is among the oldest in the city, dating back to the 17th century. Even today, these neighbourhoods carry a distinct rhythm—narrow lanes lined with shops, the scent of incense in the air, and devotees stopping by shrines for a quiet moment of prayer.
Soaking in the Sufi spirit through music
Sufi devotional music, especially qawwali, remains a vibrant part of Bengaluru’s cultural fabric. During Urs celebrations at dargahs, live performances draw diverse audiences, creating a shared space of reflection and devotion. The tradition has also found a place beyond religious settings, with city venues hosting Sufi and fusion concerts. Whether in shrines or on stage, the music continues to offer a deeply immersive experience centred on themes of love, longing and the divine.
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Did you know?
The earliest recorded Sufi saint in Karnataka is Hazrat Sayyid Shah Hisamud-din Teighbarana (1301 CE, Gulbarga). In Bengaluru, Hazrat Syed Chanchal Burhunuddin Shah Khadri is among the oldest, with his 169th Urs in 2026.
Legend says his prayers during a drought brought rains, saving the city.
Source: indiatimes.com
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‘Operation Mule 2.0’ uncovers Rs 53 crore scam, links to Baba Siddique case emerge
Dilip Singh Kshatriya
05 May 2026
Gujarat police have uncovered a major cyber fraud network as part of “Operation Mule 2.0,” exposing a Rs 53.55 crore scam that spans multiple states and has possible links to the high-profile Baba Siddique murder case.
The operation, led by the state’s Cyber Centre of Excellence, has so far resulted in the detection of 132 cyber fraud cases and the arrest of 10 individuals from Anand. What initially appeared to be a localized crackdown soon revealed a far more complex and technologically sophisticated criminal syndicate operating across cities such as Ahmedabad.
Investigators say the group relied on an elaborate “mule account” system to channel illicit funds. In this setup, a few individuals opened bank accounts in their names, while handlers controlled the transactions. Other members of the network managed the movement of money across digital platforms, often converting it into USDT cryptocurrency to avoid detection.
Authorities identified 197 bank accounts linked to the racket, all allegedly used to receive, distribute, and obscure fraudulent proceeds. Officials estimate that Rs 53.55 crore was routed through these accounts, siphoned from victims across different states using tactics such as fake identities, phishing attempts, and fraudulent digital communications.
The investigation took a more serious turn when police revealed that one of the accused, identified as Sabirmiya, had previously provided a mule account to individuals allegedly connected to the murder of Baba Siddique in Maharashtra. This development has prompted a parallel probe into potential links between cybercrime networks and organized criminal activity.
Speaking to the media, Cyber Centre of Excellence Superintendent of Police Dr. Rajdeep Singh Zala said the operation reflects an ongoing effort to dismantle cybercrime networks in the state. He also urged citizens to remain cautious, particularly when dealing with unknown calls, suspicious messages, or unfamiliar online links.
Further investigations are underway, with authorities working to identify additional suspects, trace more accounts, and determine whether the network has wider interstate or organized crime connections.
Officials say the crackdown marks a significant step in Gujarat’s efforts to combat increasingly sophisticated cybercrime operations.
Source: newindianexpress.com
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Mideast
US wants ‘concrete actions’ on Iran from next Iraqi PM
May 06, 2026
WASHINGTON: The United States is looking for “concrete actions” by Iraq’s next prime minister to distance the state from pro-Iran armed groups before resuming financial shipments and security aid, a senior official said Tuesday.
Iraq’s ruling coalition has put forward Ali Al-Zaidi as the next leader and he quickly received a congratulatory call from President Donald Trump, who had threatened to end all US support if former frontrunner Nouri Al-Maliki took office.
But a senior US State Department official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said Zaidi must address the “blurry line” between pro-Iran armed groups in the Shia-majority country and the state.
Washington suspended cash payments for oil revenue, which have been handled from the Federal Reserve Bank of New York in an arrangement dating to the aftermath of the 2003 US invasion of Iraq, as well as security assistance over a spate of attacks on US interests.
Resuming full support “would start with expelling terrorist militias from any state institution, cutting off their support from the Iraqi budget (and) denying salary payments to these militia fighters,” the official said.
“Those are the type of concrete actions that would give us confidence and say that there’s a new mindset.”
The official said US facilities in Iraq suffered more than 600 attacks after February 28, when the United States and Israel launched their war on Iran.
The attacks have come to a standstill since a shaky April 8 ceasefire between the United States and Iran, with the exception of Iranian strikes in Iraqi Kurdistan.
“I’m not underestimating the severity of the challenge or what it would take to disentangle these relationships. It could start with a clear and unambiguous statement of policy that the terrorist militias are not part of the Iraqi state,” the official said.
“Certain elements of the Iraqi state have continued to provide political, financial and operational cover for these very terrorist militias,” he added.
The United States piled pressure on Iraq after it appeared that Al-Maliki would be the next prime minister. During his previous stint in office, relations deteriorated with Washington over accusations of being too close to Iran’s Shia clerical government and fanning sectarian flames.
Attacks by armed groups in Iraq have struck the US embassy in Baghdad, its diplomatic and logistics facility at the capital’s airport and oil fields operated by foreign companies.
Source: arabnews.com
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Iran says no damage after drone interception near Qeshm, SNN reports
May 06, 2026
DUBAI: A loud noise heard on Qeshm island in southern Iran was caused by air defenses intercepting small drones and reconnaissance drones, the Hormozgan provincial authorities said according to the Students News Network, adding that no impact, damage or explosion had occurred.
Drone interceptions by Iranian air defenses have taken place several times in recent weeks, notably over Tehran, despite a ceasefire with the US
Source: arabnews.com
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PKK urges Turkiye to overcome ‘obstacles’ in peace process
May 06, 2026
ISTANBUL: Two senior figures from the outlawed Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) urged Turkish authorities to remove what they described as “obstacles” to progress in peace talks with Ankara, one year after the group announced its dissolution.
The pair, Mustafa Karasu and Sozdar Avesta, speaking in Kurdish and Turkish on camera from an unidentified location, urged the government to “take the necessary legislative measures to ensure smooth progress,” in comments published by the pro-PKK Firat news agency.
Recent statements made by Turkish officials claiming that the process is moving forward unhindered “do not reflect the current situation,” they argued.
According to them, the PKK has “fulfilled its part beyond expectations.”
Last year, the PKK formally renounced its armed struggle against the Turkish state after four decades of violence that killed at least 50,000 people on both sides.
The two PKK leaders also referred to the fate of jailed PKK founder Abdullah Ocalan, who has led efforts to end the conflict from his cell on Imrali island where he has been held in solitary confinement since 1999.
They said: “We will only be able to talk about progress once the status of Leader Apo (Abdullah Ocalan) has been determined and he is granted the conditions allowing him to work freely.”
They called for the 77-year-old to be granted a “clearly established legal and political status” that would allow him to participate “fully” in negotiations with the Turkish state.
President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s main ally Devlet Bahceli — from the nationalist MHP party — also called on Tuesday for “discussions” over the fate of Ocalan.
Bahceli said: “The process cannot proceed healthily” unless the PKK leader has a “defined role,” in an address to his party members in the parliament.
When Turkish politicians first extended an olive branch to Ocalan in October 2024, it came with a reference to the “right to hope” — shorthand for a possible early release.
Source: arabnews.com
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Israeli military issues evacuation warning for 12 villages and towns in southern Lebanon
May 06, 2026
The Israeli military issued an urgent warning on Wednesday to residents of 12 towns and villages in southern Lebanon, including some north of the Litani River, telling them to leave their homes, saying Hezbollah had violated the ceasefire agreement.
The military said civilians near Hezbollah fighters or facilities may be at risk.
Source: arabnews.com
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Fire at a shopping center in Iran kills 8 people and injures 36
May 06, 2026
TEHRAN: A fire in a shopping center near Iran's capital killed eight people and injured 36, state TV said Wednesday.
The fire started Tuesday in the Arghavan shopping center in Andisheh town in Tehran province. It was not clear what caused the blaze, and state television IRIB said authorities were investigating.
Television footage showed firefighters battling the flames as large plumes of black smoke billowed from the multistory building.
There was no indication the blaze was linked to the war, where a shaky ceasefire with the United States has been holding for around three weeks.
Source: arabnews.com
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Wood you believe it ... beds in Gaza made from discarded pallets
May 06, 2026
GAZA: Resourceful carpenters in Gaza are using shipping pallets to make much-needed basic furniture and circumvent an Israeli ban on imports of wood.
In a workshop in Khan Younis in southern Gaza, skilled workers dismantle used pallets and scrap wood to make bedframes, cupboards and shelves for families displaced by fighting,.
Mohammed Wafi, 34, a carpenter for 16 years, said pallets became one of the few available sources of wood when limited aid trucks began entering Gaza. Demand for his handiwork has grown as displaced Palestinians basic furniture.
“Today people say, ‘I just need something to get by, something to get my clothes off the floor,' especially those in tents,” he said. “Due to the rats and cockroaches, they need a tent or a bed to be lifted off the ground.” he said.
Rats and parasites are spreading through Gaza’s tent encampments, biting people as they sleep, gnawing through possessions and spreading disease. Israel bans the import of wood into Gaza because they claim it has dual civilian and military uses.
Prices for other carpentry essentials are also rising. “We used to get a kilo of nails for 5 shekels ($1.70). Today, it costs up to 130 shekels," Wafi said.
Mohammed Tayseer, who lives in a tent near Khan Younis, slept on the ground until recently. “The ground is sandy and dirty, and as you can see, you find the clothes full of sand. There are rats and mice,” he said. “My back hurts and is stiff from sleeping on the floor … but now we have a bed.”
Source: arabnews.com
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Palestinian president’s son to seek a key role in Fatah
May 06, 2026
RAMALLAH: The millionaire businessman son of Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas is expected to run for a steering role in Fatah, his 90-year-old father’s political party.
Yasser Abbas, 64, will seek to win one of the 18 seats on Fatah’s Central Committee that are being contested at a party conference in Ramallah from May 14-16, the first in 10 years.
The foray into politics has fueled speculation that the president may be seeking to position his son to succeed him as head of Fatah, which controls the Palestinian Authority.
Yasser Abbas runs tobacco and contracting companies in the occupied West Bank. He has held recent meetings with the Palestinian security establishment and groups representing prisoners held by Israel, an influential constituency.
Others viewed as possible successors to Mahmoud Abbas include Hussein Al-Sheikh, his longtime confidant and vice president of the Palestine Liberation Organization; and Marwan Barghouti, an intifada leader popular among Palestinians despite having been in an Israeli jail since 2002.
Senior Fatah official Sabri Saidam said party rules allowed any eligible member to run for the committee. “I hope to see a renewal in leadership and a renewal in the movement’s capabilities,” he said.
Source: arabnews.com
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Arab World
Saudi Arabia condemns drone attack on Khartoum airport
May 05, 2026
RIYADH: Saudi Arabia strongly condemned on Tuesday a drone attack targeting Khartoum International Airport.
The drone was shot down by Sudan’s air defenses on Monday as it approached the capital's main airport from the south and caused no damage or casualties, airport officials said.
Saudi Arabia’s Foreign Ministry said the Kingdom reiterated its call for the preservation of Sudan’s unity, its legitimate institutions, the well-being of its people, and its security and stability.
It also emphasized the importance of keeping civilian sites and vital infrastructure out of the country’s conflict.
The Sudanese military has been at war with a paramilitary group known as the Rapid Support Forces since April 2023, when the RSF stormed the capital.
The Kingdom called on all parties to de-escalate, immediately cease violations, and respect the commitments made in the Jeddah Declaration signed on May 11, 2023 regarding the protection of civilians and civilian objects, and adherence to international humanitarian law.
The Kingdom also called on Sudan’s neighbors to respect the country’s sovereignty and independence, and prevent their territories from being used as launch pads for attacks.
Sudan’s Information Ministry has said the airport would return to operations after routine safety procedures.
Source: arabnews.com
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Saudi and Jordanian foreign ministers discuss regional developments
May 06, 2026
RIYADH: Prince Faisal bin Farhan, the Saudi foreign minister, received a call on Tuesday from his Jordanian counterpart, Ayman Safadi.
They discussed the latest developments in the region, as part of ongoing coordination and consultations between their countries.
Source: arabnews.com
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Indonesian Hajj pilgrims praise Makkah Route initiative, smart services
May 05, 2026
RIYADH: Indonesia continues its Hajj flights with expanded access to the Makkah Route, as Saudi authorities have added a new major Indonesian airport to the flagship initiative that streamlines immigration procedures for pilgrims.
Indonesia, the world’s largest Muslim-majority country, will send 221,000 pilgrims this year to perform the Hajj, one of the pillars of Islam.
With the Hajj expected to begin on May 25, special pilgrimage flights from Indonesia began on April 22 and are scheduled to run until May 21.
This year, the Makkah Route initiative is available for the first time for pilgrims departing from Makassar, South Sulawesi. It is the fourth Indonesian city to join the program, after Jakarta, Solo, and Surabaya.
The initiative, powered by the Saudi Data and AI Authority, uses an integrated system of smart technologies to streamline procedures and deliver high-quality services in an efficient operational environment, with active participation from Saudi personnel.
A key component of the initiative is the mobile counter, which enables pilgrims to complete procedures inside airport terminals.
It facilitates biometric data collection and passport verification, ensuring a smooth process, particularly for the elderly and persons with disabilities.
Saudi staff combine expertise and human care, guiding pilgrims throughout the process to ensure a comfortable and reassuring start to their journey.
An Indonesian pilgrim, Kaher, told the Saudi Press Agency that his journey toward Hajj took about 15 years, during which he worked in agriculture and regularly set aside part of his income despite his limited means.
This year, he was able to fulfill the requirements for the pilgrimage, marking a moment that reflects years of perseverance and discipline. He arrived with his family through the Makkah Route initiative.
Kaher expressed his appreciation for the comprehensive care provided by the Kingdom to pilgrims, commending the high level of organization and streamlined procedures that help create a safe and orderly environment, enabling pilgrims to perform their rituals with ease and tranquility.
Despite financial hardship, another Indonesian pilgrim, Desta Ayoninig, was able to begin her Hajj journey through the Makkah Route initiative, supported by her 14-year-old brother, who contributed financially to make it possible.
At the initiative lounge in Surabaya, while completing travel procedures, an emotional moment occurred when Desta could not hold back her tears, recalling her father’s passing just 12 days before the Hajj season. He had been preparing for this journey with great eagerness but passed away before fulfilling his dream.
The pilgrim expressed her gratitude for the facilities provided through the initiative, which helped ease travel procedures for performing Hajj rituals and alleviated part of her hardship, expressing hope that Allah would grant her a smooth and healthy Hajj journey.
Another pilgrim, Hajjah Khairiyah, highlighted that the organization of Hajj services in Indonesia has seen a significant improvement, particularly praising the Makkah Route initiative.
She noted that by streamlining procedures in the country of departure and reducing waiting times upon arrival in the Kingdom, the initiative offers pilgrims a smoother and more comfortable journey, allowing them to begin their rituals with peace of mind.
The Ministry of Interior continues the implementation of the initiative for its eighth consecutive year, expanding the service to 17 entry points across 10 countries.
Indonesia is among 10 Muslim-majority countries — including Pakistan, Malaysia, Bangladesh, Morocco, Turkiye, Cote d’Ivoire, Maldives, Senegal, and Brunei Darussalam — where Saudi Arabia operates the initiative.
The initiative is designed to provide a seamless, high-quality Hajj experience by completing all entry procedures in pilgrims’ home countries. This includes the electronic issuance of Hajj visas, passport control, and verification of health requirements at departure airports.
Additionally, luggage is coded and sorted according to accommodation arrangements in Saudi Arabia, allowing pilgrims to board dedicated buses upon arrival in Makkah and Madinah without waiting at baggage claim.
The initiative is implemented in cooperation with the ministries of foreign affairs, health, Hajj and Umrah, as well as other government entities. Since its launch in 2017, it has served 1,254,994 pilgrims.
Source: arabnews.com
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KSrelief delivers medical, food aid to vulnerable communities
May 05, 2026
RIYADH: The Saudi aid agency KSrelief continues to provide vital assistance to some of the world’s most vulnerable communities.
The organization recently implemented a cochlear implantation and auditory rehabilitation project in Reyhanli, Turkiye.
During a four-day campaign, its medical team conducted hearing assessments, fitted and programmed hearing aids, and distributed them to 373 beneficiaries, including 69 refugees.
KSrelief in Yemen has distributed 2,160 food parcels to vulnerable families in Abyan governorate in the second phase of its emergency food assistance project.
It has also distributed 500 food parcels in Niono in the Segou region of Mali, supporting displaced people, host communities, people in need, and persons with disabilities.
KSrelief in Sudan has distributed 800 food parcels to displaced and returnee families in Khartoum state, benefiting 5,848 individuals.
The agency has also provided 25,000 hot meals to vulnerable groups in central and southern Gaza.
KSrelief in Bangladesh has delivered food aid to Cox’s Bazar’s network of refugee camps to help people with disabilities, orphans, and the elderly, benefiting 5,000 individuals.
The organization has implemented 4,367 projects in 113 countries since 2015, spending more than $8.4 billion on food security, health, education, water and sanitation, shelter and early recovery.
Source: arabnews.com
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Team from Al-Ahsa praised by governor for its work on the UNESCO Creative Cities Network
May 05, 2026
RIYADH: A team from Al-Ahsa was received by the region’s governor on Tuesday and praised for its work on the UNESCO Creative Cities Network.
Al-Ahsa Gov. Prince Saud bin Talal, accompanied by Mayor Essam Al-Mulla, received the team and praised its members for winning the chair of coordination for creative cities worldwide in the field of crafts and folk arts.
Prince Saud was briefed on the team’s efforts in developing Al-Ahsa’s creative portfolio, and on the achievements that have contributed to enhancing the governorate’s presence at international level.
He said that the achievement constituted global recognition of the cultural and creative assets at Al-Ahsa, as well as its rich heritage of traditional crafts and folk arts which formed an integral part of the national identity and reflected the depth of its civilization.
Prince Saud noted that the accolade resulted from the significant support provided by the country’s leadership in the cultural sector, pointing out that Al-Ahsa’s recognition strengthened its presence in international forums.
It opened prospects for cooperation and the exchange of expertise with member cities, and contributed to attracting global cultural events, stimulating cultural tourism, and creating opportunities in a manner that supported sustainable development, he added.
Al-Mulla said that the achievement was the result of integrated efforts undertaken by the municipality in developing Al-Ahsa’s creative portfolio and supporting and empowering artisans, enhancing the presence of cultural heritage within the developmental landscape.
He pointed to the rich diversity that characterized Al-Ahsa in traditional crafts and industries, and the folk arts passed down by the community across generations.
He added that the achievement further reinforced Al-Ahsa’s status as a global center of creativity and opened wider avenues of international cooperation and exchange of expertise, in a way that supported Sustainable Development Goals and consolidated the Kingdom’s presence on the global cultural scene.
Al-Ahsa was designated as a UNESCO Creative City in Crafts and Folk Arts in 2015.
Source: arabnews.com
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Pottery in Madinah emerges as key driver in creative economy
May 04, 2026
MADINAH: Pottery, one of the oldest handicrafts, has been closely linked to human history since ancient times, evolving from meeting daily needs into cultural heritage reflecting the identity and diversity of societies.
Today, pottery remains a key traditional craft supporting the creative economy. No longer limited to preservation, it has become a field for innovation, where artisans create contemporary pieces that blend authenticity with modern design, expanding their reach in local and global markets.
Madinah-based potter Ammar Jabarti said his journey began by incorporating clay into contemporary artworks in his studio. He now seeks to present pottery in new ways beyond its traditional association with cookware and classic vessels such as drinking pots.
He noted growing interest in learning pottery, especially among young people, adding that introducing the craft in early school stages has helped raise awareness and gradually develop skills.
The sector is further supported through initiatives that back artisans, organize exhibitions, and provide training. Craftsmen continue to preserve this heritage by passing on their expertise and adopting modern techniques that align with contemporary tastes without compromising its cultural value.
Source: arabnews.com
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Saudi individual patent filings surge 102% in 2025
HAJAR ALQUSAYER
May 05, 2026
RIYADH: Patent applications filed by individuals in Saudi Arabia rose by 102 percent in 2025 from the previous 12 months, accelerating from a 62 percent year-on-year increase in 2024.
Data released in January showed that such filings rose 96 percent to 3,942 last year, from 2,007 in 2024.
The Saudi Authority for Intellectual Property’s 2025 statistical report highlighted expansion in key innovation indicators, reflecting the Kingdom’s ongoing shift toward a knowledge-based economy.
There was also a 59 percent year-on-year increase in direct filings, indicating an increased reliance on streamlined digital channels for protecting innovations.
The authority attributed the rise to efforts to simplify filing procedures and enhance the user experience, as well as growing public awareness of intellectual property rights.
Foreign activity also expanded, with China leading design registration applications. Filings from China rose 262 percent, while design certificates granted to Chinese applicants increased 235 percent.
Tech giant Huawei was the most active entity.
The report also highlighted increased engagement from major national firms, with Public Investment Fund-backed companies and startups all stepping up efforts to safeguard their intellectual assets.
The authority said the report served as a key reference for policymakers, investors and innovators to monitor trends and identify opportunities across the Kingdom’s intellectual property landscape.
As part of its broader progress, Saudi Arabia improved its score in the Global Intellectual Property Index by 17.5 percent in 2025, placing it among the fastest improving economies out of 55 countries evaluated.
Source: arabnews.com
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Europe
Former synagogue in 'arson attack' was planned for mosque conversion
5 MAY 2026
A FORMER synagogue targeted in a suspected arson attack was being eyed up for conversion into a mosque, it has emerged.
A fire started in the early hours of Tuesday morning at the former East London Central Synagogue is being investigated by counterterrorism officers.
But it has since emerged that a Muslim group was planning to buy the century-old vacant building, which has not been used as a shul for six years.
Ashaadibi Centre, a Muslim educational and cultural centre in Whitechapel, east London, announced in February that it had put down a deposit with plans to buy the site.
In a YouTube video, a member of the group said that they had nine months to raise the necessary £3.5 million to seal the deal with a deposit of £230,000 put down to secure the contract.
The group has suggested it anticipated challenges with purchasing the former synagogue.
In another video from March which is narrated in Somali, a member of the group said: “Before, we used to purchase churches, however with a synagogue, it is different and there are is a lot of pressure associated with it.”
Commander Helen Flanagan, head of Counter Terrorism Policing London, said: "This incident follows on from a number of arsons and attempted arsons targeting Jewish Londoners in the north west of the city and we will be considering any potential links as their investigation gets underway.
"Detectives are already working quickly to gather evidence and identify those responsible and I would urge anyone with CCTV or information that could assist detectives to contact police."
Two Jewish men were targeted in an alleged terrorist knife attack in Golders Green, north-west London late last month. Essa Suleiman, the suspected attacker, was described by the police as having "a history of serious violence and mental health issues" and had also earlier in the day allegedly attempted to stab a Muslim man.
A spokesperson for the London Fire Brigade added: "We were called at 0511 hrs today to reports of a fire at a disused synagogue on Nelson Street in Whitechapel.
"Firefighters extinguished a small fire affecting the exterior of the building. There were no reports of any injuries. The Brigade is investigating the cause of the fire alongside the Metropolitan Police."
Source: thenational.scot
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Franklin Templeton launches two Shariah compliant funds
05 May 2026
Franklin Templeton has launched two additional funds in its Shariah range in response to rising demand from European investors for Shariah-compliant investment solutions.
The asset management firm – which has over 35 years of experience investing in Islamic markets – said the FTSF Franklin Global Sukuk Ultra Short Duration Fund launched on 23 April, while the FTSF Franklin Shariah Systematic Global Equity Fund was expected to be available to investors this month.
The move expands the asset management firm's Luxembourg-domiciled Franklin Templeton Shariah Funds (FTSF) offering across liquidity, fixed income, and global equities.
Franklin Templeton head of EMEA and Americas ex-US Matthew Harrison said: "Franklin Templeton is well recognised for its Sukuk capabilities. As one of the few global Shariah-compliant asset managers, we have investment professionals based in key Sukuk issuance hubs, including Kuala Lumpur, Dubai and Riyadh, supported a global network of more than 200 investment, trading and risk professionals.
"The expansion of our shariah fund range reflects growing demand from institutional and wholesale clients for high quality Shariah compliant investment solutions."
Franklin Templeton ‘s Shariah-compliant strategies are supported by a rigorous governance framework, including independent oversight from the Amanie Shariah Supervisory Board, as well as advanced screening technology and integrated risk management processes.
The FTSF Franklin Global Sukuk Ultra Short Duration Fund is designed to provide capital preservation and liquidity, while seeking to maximise total returns and income.
The fund invests in a highly liquid portfolio of short-dated sukuk, supranational instruments and Shariah-compliant deposits, with a focus on capital stability and income preservation.
Franklin Templeton said the strategy is designed to meet the increasing demand for Shariah-compliant liquidity solutions among institutional investors, wealth managers and workplace pension schemes.
The duration fund is managed by a team of portfolio managers including chief investment officer for global sukuk Mohieddine (Dino) Kronfol; head of Middle East fixed income and portfolio manager Amit Jain; and portfolio manager Hardeep Dogra.
The FTSF Franklin Shariah Systematic Global Equity Fund aims to deliver long term capital appreciation through a highly liquid, actively managed global equity strategy, consistent with Shariah principles.
This fund employs a multi-factor quantitative model to identify securities with favourable exposure to factors such as quality, value, sentiment and alternative data signals.
The investment universe is screened to ensure compliance with Shariah principles, including exclusions and financial ratio filters aligned with Islamic investing standards.
The fund will be managed by portfolio manager Chris Floyd; and head of quantitative equity portfolio management Brett Risser.
Source: professionalpensions.com
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Azerbaijan, Islamic Development Bank explore cooperation
05.05.2026
Mikayil Jabbarov, Azerbaijan’s Minister of Economy, met with a delegation of the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB), led by Muhammad Sulaiman Al Jasser, Chairman of the IsDB Group.
Minister Mikayıl Jabbarov emphasized that expanding economic cooperation with the IsDB, including projects implemented in energy, infrastructure, water supply, and other fields, plays a crucial role in diversifying the national economy and developing the private sector.
IsDB Group Chairman Muhammad Al Jasser highlighted that such meetings are of great importance for strengthening partnerships and advancing innovative solutions that promote sustainable development across the group's member countries. These gatherings also serve as a vital platform for discussing global challenges collectively and identifying new opportunities for mutual growth.
The parties exchanged views on the preparatory work and scheduled events for the 2026 IsDB Group Annual Meetings in Baku, as well as the strengthening of partnerships in the economic and financial sectors and future cooperation prospects.
The 51st IsDB Group Annual Meetings will take place in Baku on June 16-19 this year. The events, set to take place as part of the meeting, will serve as a leading global platform for dialogue on development, and will gather finance, economy ministers, heads of international financial institutions and the private sector, as well as representatives of international organizations.
Source: azertag.az
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https://azertag.az/en/xeber/azerbaijan_islamic_development_bank_explore_cooperation-4170147
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Reform candidate investigated for anti-mosque post
6 MAY 2026
Caroline Gall
A Solihull election candidate is under investigation for stating that all mosques should be closed down.
Reform candidate for Chelmsley Wood Phil Tierney made the comment last year in response to far-right party Britain First posting a question on social media about whether mosques should be monitored for extremism.
It comes two weeks after the Jewish Chronicle reported Steve Egan, a Reform candidate in Knowle in Solihull, shared an image on social media of "Zionists" pulling the strings of world leaders and questioned whether the King had converted to Islam.
Reform said it was investigating the post relating to Tierney and the party's disciplinary team was investigating Egan.
Tierney's comment has been criticised by Conservative MP for Meriden Saqib Bhatti and the local Liberal Democrat party.
"Farage has said time and time again that he has vetted his candidates," Bhatti said.
"After a case of antisemitism just over two weeks ago we now find out another candidate has been saying all mosques should be shut down.
"Reform need to own up to the fact they haven't vetted their candidates and clarify if these two individuals are still candidates."
A spokesperson for the Lib Dems in Solihull said the comment was "deeply concerning" and there was "no place in Solihull - or anywhere - for racism, hatred, or intolerance".
"Islamophobia is unacceptable, just as antisemitism and all other forms of prejudice and discrimination are unacceptable.
"We must stand firmly against all of them, consistently and without exception.
"Solihull is a diverse and welcoming borough."
The BBC has contacted Tierney for a response.
About 5,000 seats across 136 local councils in England are up for grabs on 7 May with six mayoral contests also taking place.
Source: bbc.com
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Campaigning sprint finish ahead of elections around Britain tomorrow
6 MAY 2026
Chris Mason
We stand on the cusp of the biggest set of elections since the general election two years ago.
Tomorrow morning, polling stations will be open in communities across Scotland and Wales, as voters choose who should run their devolved governments - and they will be open too in many, but not all, parts of England, as more than 5,000 seats on 136 councils are contested, as well as six mayoral vacancies.
For weeks already, people having been casting their ballot by post.
The parties and the candidates are now preparing their final pitch to you.
Plaid Cymru, who one day would like to see an independent Wales, are in a tussle with Reform UK to emerge as the largest party in the newly expanded Senedd, the Welsh Parliament.
Plaid argue they are the only party that can beat Reform, and so hope to attract voters who might not normally be drawn to them, but are very keen Reform are not the winners.
Reform, for their part, are confident they can emerge as the biggest party in the Senedd.
In Scotland, the Scottish National Party are confident of winning their fifth devolved election in a row. Like Plaid, they too are pitching themselves as the most viable option when it comes to beating Nigel Farage's party.
Reform are revelling in being competitive in a nation that strongly endorsed Remain in the Brexit referendum a decade ago.
And it is not just in Scotland and Wales that Westminster's two big beasts, Labour and the Conservatives, are on the back foot.
The prime minister argues he has got the big judgement call of 2026 right: that it was in the UK's national interest, he believes, not to be directly involved in America and Israel's war on Iran.
Labour also emphasise their attempts to improve the health service and changing the law to improve workers' rights. But Sir Keir Starmer does so while pleading with his party, in public and in private, to cut out all the chat about his future and who might replace him.
Kemi Badenoch, the Conservative leader, is travelling around London by taxi today, dropping in on boroughs where the Tories feel optimistic about their prospects.
Badenoch, like Starmer, expects these elections to be difficult for her party. She claims the Conservative plans are thought-through and costed, in a clear jibe at Reform UK, and has vowed to abolish business rates in England and Wales.
It tells you something about the vulnerabilities of Labour and the Conservatives that many of the other parties are hoping – and often confident – that they will be the recipient of votes from those fed up with Westminster's big two.
That is the specific pitch of the Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey, who also argues that in places like Hull and Stockport, Surrey and Hampshire, it is the Lib Dems who are Reform UK's true rivals.
Davey leans into his party focusing on local issues – such as fixing the church roof or cleaning up sewage from rivers. But the Liberal Democrats no longer dominate as perhaps they used to as the most obvious alternative in lots of places to Labour and the Tories.
That, in particular in England, is because of the rise of Reform UK and the Greens.
As for Reform UK, party leader Farage has been revelling in his lifelong political role as disruptor-in-chief, while fending off questions about the huge £5m gift from the British billionaire Christopher Harborne, which Farage didn't declare.
He insists he didn't have to - his opponents insist he should have done. It will now be down to the parliamentary standards commissioner and the Electoral Commission to decide.
Farage hopes his party will perform sufficiently well in England, Wales and Scotland to be able to argue Reform are the principal opposition to the Labour Party across Great Britain. He has argued the elections amount to a referendum on the prime minister's leadership.
The Green Party of England and Wales, energised under its relatively new leader Zack Polanski, eyes gains at Labour's expense in urban England and hopes for a breakthrough in the Senedd in Wales. His pitch amounts to claiming it is now the Greens who are the authentic, truly left-wing alternative to a Labour Party he claims has drifted to the right.
But Polanski has faced difficult questions in recent days after he publicly endorsed criticism of the Metropolitan Police's methods in the detaining of the suspect in the Golders Green attacks in north London last week.
The Scottish Green Party is separate from its English and Welsh sister and, like the SNP, backs Scottish independence.
It is worth remembering too there are independent candidates, in particular in some local contests in England.
All in all it is a mesmerising mix, with results coming not just in the early hours of Friday, but throughout Friday and into Saturday too.
Source: bbc.com
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Germany was never fully ‘denazified’ after WWII – Medvedev
6 May, 2026
The process of ridding German society and Europe of Nazi ideology was never completed, the head of the Russian Security Council and former president, Dmitry Medvedev, wrote in an article ahead of the 81st anniversary of victory over Nazi Germany.
Moscow has long accused the West of pursuing historical revanchism and seeking to erase the memory of World War II and rewrite the Soviet victory over Nazism.
Russia’s Foreign Intelligence Service (SVR) said last year that German Chancellor Friedrich Merz in particular harbors a “maniacal drive for revenge” against Russia based on Nazi-era grievances.
“The Federal Republic of Germany has seen no real denazification. Archival materials of the Foreign Intelligence Service of Russia, including a reference on the political situation in West Germany from 1952, convincingly show that instead of its implementation, ‘the Western powers followed the path of justifying Nazi war criminals,’” Medvedev wrote.
Some Western countries still do not accept the results of World War II and the rulings of the Nuremberg Tribunal, thinking that the Soviet victory was an “accident or a mistake” that needs to be rectified, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said last month.
Medvedev argued that the West kept the bearers of Nazi ideology alive for their descendants to continue wreaking havoc.
“The entire process, carried out with much ado, turned into an empty farce, with the exception of the liquidation of notorious pro-fascist organizations and the purification of public spaces.
“The Anglo-Saxons, trying to preserve the former leaders of Hitler’s military economy and major Nazis they needed, campaigned under the slogan ‘hang the small ones – acquit the big ones,’” Medvedev said in the article, soon to be published on RT.
Source: rt.com
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Ukrainian drone strike kills five civilians in Crimea – governor
5 May, 2026
Five civilians have been killed in a Ukrainian drone strike on the northern Crimean city of Dzhankoy, Governor Sergey Aksyonov has said.
Shortly before reporting the fatalities, Aksyonov warned that Crimea was under attack by Ukrainian drones. He said air defenses and mobile fire teams were engaging the incoming threats and had intercepted at least 12 UAVs.
“Unfortunately, as a result of an enemy UAV strike on Dzhankoy, there are casualties among the civilian population – five people have died,” Aksyonov wrote. He expressed condolences to the victims’ families and said the authorities would provide them with all necessary assistance.
The governor said emergency and other relevant services were working at the scene, adding that he was personally monitoring the situation. He urged residents to remain calm and rely only on official information.
The strike came after Russia’s Defense Ministry said air defenses had downed 289 Ukrainian drones over Russian territory and the Azov Sea the night before. According to the ministry, the raid targeted 19 regions in western and southern Russia. Regional officials reported damage and injuries in several areas.
Ukrainian drone raids on Russian territory have intensified in recent months, with Kiev increasingly deploying large numbers of fixed-wing UAVs against infrastructure, industrial facilities, and residential areas. Moscow has described the strikes as desperate “terrorist attacks” to compensate for the setbacks Kiev has suffered on the battlefield.
The attack comes days before Russia’s planned two-day ceasefire on May 8-9 to mark Victory Day, which commemorates the defeat of Nazi Germany in World War II. Moscow has said it will pause the fighting during the holiday and urged Kiev to do the same, warning that any attempt to disrupt the celebrations, including attacks against Moscow, would be met with a major retaliatory strike on Kiev.
Source: rt.com
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North America
Democrats want Trump to lift lid on Israeli nukes
5 May, 2026
A group of 30 Democrats in the US House of Representatives have demanded that the administration of President Donald Trump disclose information about Israel’s nuclear arsenal and relevant policies. The lack of transparency threatens the entire Middle East, the lawmakers argue.
Israel has neither confirmed nor denied that it possesses nuclear weapons, nor has it publicly presented a doctrine outlining the potential use of them or its red lines. The US, which has been aware of the Israeli nuclear program at least since the early 1960s, has remained silent on the issue.
Washington is fighting “side by side with a country whose potential nuclear weapons program the United States government officially refuses to acknowledge,” congressmen led by Democratic Representative Joaquin Castro said in a letter to Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
“The risks of miscalculation, escalation, and nuclear use in this environment are not theoretical,” the letter stated.
The group has demanded that the US hold Israel to the same standard of transparency as other countries, adding that a “coherent nonproliferation policy for the Middle East,” including Iran’s nuclear program and Saudi nuclear ambitions, would otherwise be impossible.
How big is Israel’s arsenal?
Israel is believed to possess 80 to 90 nuclear weapons, including around 30 bombs and 50 ballistic missile warheads, according to estimates by the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI).
Photos from inside an Israeli nuclear facility leaked to the Sunday Times in 1986 suggested that the country could have produced enough material for up to 200 nuclear bombs at the time. Mordechai Vanunu, the technician who leaked the photos, was subsequently kidnapped by Mossad and sentenced to nearly two decades in prison.
When did Israel launch its nuclear program?
Israel reportedly pursued nuclear ambitions soon after it was founded in 1948. Ernst David Bergmann, the first head of the Israel Atomic Energy Commission, established in 1952, spoke about a nuclear bomb as something that would ensure “that we shall never again be led as lambs to the slaughter.”
The Negev Nuclear Research Center (NNRC) near the city of Dimona, built in the late 1950s, was allegedly designed to produce weapons-grade plutonium, according to a 1960 US intelligence report. According to SIPRI, Israel could have acquired its first nuclear weapons in the late 1960s from plutonium produced at the NNRC.
What did the US know?
Washington was aware that the NNRC was weapons-related as early as December 1960, according to a Joint Atomic Energy Intelligence Committee statement declassified in 2024. In 1967, Israeli soldiers informed the US Embassy that Israel was “weeks away” from the bomb, according to other declassified documents.
By 1973, Washington “was convinced Israel had nuclear weapons,” according to the Federation of American Scientists. In 1979, an American satellite detected a double flash off the coast of South Africa. Former President Jimmy Carter’s White House diaries, published in 2010, cited a “growing belief” that the flash was an Israeli nuclear test.
Leonard Weiss, a Senate adviser briefed on the matter at the time, claimed that both the Carter and Reagan administrations attempted to gag him over the incident. “I was told it would create a very serious foreign policy issue for the US if I said it was a test. Someone had let something off that the US didn’t want anyone to know about,” he told The Guardian in 2014.
Why the silence?
Declassified CIA files suggest that the intelligence agency informed then-President Lyndon Johnson that Israel had nuclear weapons in 1968. The president ordered then-CIA Director Richard Helms to keep it secret even from Secretary of State Dean Rusk and Defense Secretary Robert McNamara. Washington allegedly feared that Arab states would refuse to join the Non-Proliferation Treaty if news of Israel’s undeclared weapons came out.
The policy of silence was formalized at a 1969 meeting between US President Richard Nixon and Israeli Prime Minister Golda Meir, according to Avner Cohen, a professor at the Middlebury Institute of International Studies and author of ‘Israel and the Bomb’.
Source: rt.com
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Trump says US to pause operation to guide vessels through Strait of Hormuz
May 6, 2026
Bernd Debusmann Jr
The US operation to guide stranded vessels through the Strait of Hormuz will be paused for a "short period of time", President Donald Trump announced on Tuesday evening.
Trump said that "Project Freedom", which began days earlier, would be halted by "mutual agreement" because "great progress" had been made toward a deal with Iran.
Iranian state media characterised it as a victory, saying the pause demonstrated that Trump "retreated" after "continued failures" to reopen the vital waterway for global shipping.
The US president's announcement came as Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the initial US-Israeli offensive in Iran - Operation Epic Fury - was over after achieving its objectives.
In a post on social media, Trump said that he had made the decision "based on the request of Pakistan", which has acted as an intermediary between the US and Iran. He added that the US blockade of Iranian ports would remain in place.
Trump's announcement may surprise some. It undercuts a day's worth of messaging from Rubio, defence secretary Pete Hegseth and Joint Chiefs chairman Gen. Dan Caine - all of whom vowed that the operation would ensure freedom of navigation and commerce in the Strait of Hormuz and Persian Gulf.
"We would prefer the path of peace. What the president [Donald Trump] would prefer is a deal," Rubio told reporters on Tuesday.
What happens next is unclear. The administration had stressed that Project Freedom was a "separate and distinct" campaign from the blockade, which is meant to pressure Iran economically.
Project Freedom was meant to help restore the flow of oil from the region and the global economy's eventual return to normalcy by guiding stranded ships out of the Gulf through the largely closed waterway. But if during the "pause", global shipping firms and the insurance companies working with them are stymied by Iranian interference, it will be difficult for Trump to claim that objective has been achieved.
On the other hand, the administration may hope that freezing Project Freedom - which the Iranians strongly objected to - helps bring them to the negotiating table again.
Rubio's comments earlier in the day came after a spate of attacks in the Strait of Hormuz raised fears the ceasefire between the US and Iran was in jeopardy.
Tehran did not comment on Rubio's statement, but Iran's parliamentary speaker Mohammad Ghalibaf earlier said: "We know well that the continuation of the status quo is intolerable for America, while we are just getting started."
Ghalibaf, Iran's top negotiator in last month's talks with the US, said, "Shipping security and energy transit have been jeopardised by the US and its allies with the ceasefire violations and blockade. However, their evil acts will fail".
Late on Tuesday the UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) said a verified source had told it that a cargo vessel has been struck "by an unknown projectile" in the Strait of Hormuz. Further details were not immediately available.
Earlier in the day the UAE said its air defences were engaging missiles and drones from Iran for a second day in a row. On Monday it accused Iran of firing missiles and drones including a strike on an oil port in the emirate of Fujairah which is located outside the Strait of Hormuz, calling it a "dangerous escalation".
Iran on Tuesday denied launching any attacks on the UAE, with a military spokesman saying that, "If such an action had been taken, we would have announced it firmly and clearly".
Operation Epic Fury began on 28 February when the US and Israel launched a wave of air strikes on Iran. Tehran responded by blocking the crucial waterway through which 20% of the world's oil and liquefied natural gas usually passes.
In early April, the US and Iran announced a ceasefire under which Iran ended its drone and missile strikes on Gulf countries including the UAE, but few vessels have been able to transit the strait since then. The US also imposed its own blockade on Iranian ports.
On Monday, the US said it had attacked seven Iranian fast boats in the strait while Iran said it had fired warning shots at a US vessel. Both sides denied the respective claims. Two commercial ships reported attacks and one said it had successfully exited the strait under a US military escort, as part of Donald Trump's plan to unblock the strait.
Speaking at the White House, Rubio said that while Trump wanted a deal, "That is so far not the route that Iran has chosen" adding: "What that may lead to in the future is speculative."
He said US and Israeli attacks on Iran had caused "generational destruction to their economy" and the country's leaders should "check themselves before they wreck themselves in the direction that they're going".
Hegseth said the ceasefire with Iran was "not over".
"Right now the ceasefire certainly holds, but we're going to be watching very, very closely," Hegseth said during a press conference on Tuesday.
Caine said that while Iran had attacked US forces 10 times since a ceasefire began, these attacks were "below the threshold" of resuming fighting "at this point".
Trump was later asked by reporters what would constitute a breach of the ceasefire by Iran. "You'll find out because I'll let you know," he responded. He also said he believed a negotiated settlement with Iran to end the conflict was still possible.
The various comments from American officials suggest that the US has little desire or appetite to return to full-scale operations - further disturbing markets, sending prices skyrocketing and meeting opposition from large swathes of Americans.
Trump also has said he is discussing the strait's reopening with Japan and expects to have a positive conversation with Chinese President Xi Jinping about it when he visits China next week.
Source: bbc.com
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Mission is to preach peace, says Pope in response to Trump attacks
May 6, 2026
Madeline Halpert
Pope Leo has responded to attacks by US President Donald Trump, saying he hoped to be able to preach the Gospel and about peace, but anyone was free to criticise him.
In his latest remarks, Trump suggested that the Pope believed it was OK for Iran to have a nuclear weapon.
The Pope has said no such thing, but he has opposed the US and Israel's war on Iran. His stance has angered Trump, prompting the US president to lash out repeatedly.
The latest exchange comes as US Secretary of State Marco Rubio heads to the Vatican for a two-day visit this week.
The State Department said Rubio would work to "advance bilateral relations" with Italy and the Vatican and discuss "the situation in the Middle East and mutual interests in the Western Hemisphere", including during meetings with other Italian counterparts.
On Tuesday ahead of his visit, Rubio denied that he was going to Italy to smooth over tensions between Trump and the Vatican.
"It's a trip we have planned from before, and obviously we had some stuff that happened," he said, adding there was "a lot to talk about with the Vatican".
Earlier on Tuesday, Pope Leo said he would continue to call for peace despite criticisms.
"The mission of the Church is to preach the Gospel, to preach peace," he said, according to Reuters. "If someone wants to criticise me for preaching the Gospel... I hope simply to be listened to because of the value of God's words."
Most recently, this week, Trump told conservative radio talkshow host Hugh Hewitt that the Pope was "endangering a lot of Catholics and a lot of people" because he "thinks it's fine for Iran to have a nuclear weapon". The Pope has not said he supports Iran having a nuclear weapon.
But Brian Burch, the US ambassador to the Holy See, told reporters this week that despite the recent tensions there was no "deep rift" between the US and the Vatican.
"Nations have disagreements, and I think one of the ways that you work through those is... through fraternity and authentic dialogue," Burch told journalists.
"I don't accept the idea that somehow there's some deep rift," he said, adding that Rubio's meetings in Italy could allow the two sides to "talk through" any differences.
The disagreement also led to tensions between Trump and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni – a former Trump ally – as she also criticised the war in the Middle East and came to the defence of the Pope.
Asked by reporters whether she would meet Rubio this week, Meloni said: "I think so."
Pope Leo has spoken out repeatedly against the conflict in the Middle East, saying last month: "As a pastor, I cannot be in favour of war."
"I would like to encourage all to make efforts to look for answers that come from a culture of peace and not from a place of hate and division," he said.
Trump answered the statements from the first US-born pontiff by calling the Pope "WEAK on crime" and "terrible for Foreign Policy".
"He wasn't on any list to be Pope, and was only put there by the Church because he was an American, and they thought that would be the best way to deal with President Donald Trump," Trump wrote on social media. "If I wasn't in the White House, Leo wouldn't be in the Vatican."
Trump also drew backlash when, just an hour later after making that statement, he posted an image depicting him as a Jesus-like figure, which was later removed. Trump acknowledged posting the picture, telling reporters he thought it was "me as a doctor".
Vice-President JD Vance – who converted to Catholicism – has also come to Trump's defence, saying the Vatican should "stick to matters of morality".
Source: bbc.com
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https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c2023gne5p1o
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Gilchrist County man sentenced for threatening reporter, Muslims, political leaders
May 6, 2026
GAINESVILLE, Fla. (WCJB) - A Gilchrist County man will spend three years in prison for threatening to kill a newspaper reporter, Muslims, and political leaders.
Prosecutors say the FBI started investigating Bell man Peter Ring, 31, last June, saying he threatened a news reporter then told authorities he wouldn’t do it again. He continued making threats a few months later, they say.
Ring threatened at least 14 people, posting threats of violence against Muslim people, members of the media, and prominent politicians, according to the Northern District of Florida U.S. Attorney’s Office.
“With threats and acts of violence directed at public figures becoming alarmingly more frequent,” said U.S. Attorney John P. Heekin. ”My office is committed to aggressively prosecuting cases like this to send a clear message: we have zero-tolerance for criminality in the Northern District of Florida.
Source: wcjb.com
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https://www.wcjb.com/2026/05/05/gilchrist-county-man-sentenced-threatening-reporter-muslims-political-leaders/
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Trump-backed Vivek Ramaswamy wins Republican nomination for Ohio governor
May 6, 2026
Indian-origin Republican leader Vivek Ramaswamy has won the Republican nomination for Ohio governor, positioning himself for a high-stakes contest in November against Democrat Amy Acton.
The biotech entrepreneur secured a comfortable victory over small business owner Casey Putsch in Tuesday’s primary, advancing to the general election in the key Rust Belt state of Ohio.
Ramaswamy will now face Acton, the former director of the Ohio Department of Public Health, who ran unopposed in the Democratic primary. The race is expected to be closely watched nationally.
In his victory speech, Ramaswamy thanked voters, saying, "for getting us to this point," and added that, "the real destination is in November."
US President Donald Trump earlier endorsed Ramaswamy and praised him in a post, calling him "something special. he is young, strong, and smart!"
In a longer message, Trump said, "Vivek Ramaswamy is running for Governor of the Great State of Ohio… I know Vivek well, competed against him, and he is something special. He is Young, Strong, and Smart! Vivek is also a very good person, who truly loves our Country… Vivek Ramaswamy will be a great governor of Ohio, and has my complete and total endorsement – he will never let you down!"
Laura Loomer also congratulated Ramaswamy on winning the Ohio Republican primary for governor, calling it a major victory.
"Tonight was a blow to the Woke Reich and a Tucker backed candidate who attempted to undermine Vivek because he is brown," she added.
Ramaswamy, who gained national attention during his 2024 presidential bid, later backed Trump. His campaign in the primary largely targeted Acton despite facing Republican opponents. Acton, meanwhile, is best known for leading Ohio's response to the Covid-19 pandemic.
Ohio’s current governor, Mike DeWine, is not seeking re-election due to term limits. With both candidates now confirmed, the November election is set to become a major political contest.
Source: indiatimes.com
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https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/us/trump-backed-vivek-ramaswamy-wins-republican-nomination-for-ohio-governor/articleshowprint/130843969.cms
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'Operation Epic Fury concluded': Trump aide declares 'objectives achieved' in Iran action
TIMESOFINDIA.COM | May 6, 2026
“Operation Epic Fury is concluded,” US secretary of state Marco Rubio declared early Thursday, marking the end of over two months of unrest triggered by a major military escalation involving the United States and Israel against Iran.
The conflict, aimed at curbing the nuclear ambitions of Ali Khamenei’s regime, also triggered major political upheaval in Tehran. Following Khamenei’s killing, his son Mojtaba Khamenei was appointed as the new supreme leader, marking a major transition of power.
“Operation Epic Fury,” a large-scale military campaign spearheaded by US President Donald Trump with Israeli partnership, began on February 28 and plunged the Gulf and wider Middle East into a period of intense instability and conflict.
Announcing the conclusion of the operation, Rubio said, “Operation Epic Fury is concluded. We achieved the objectives of that operation. We're not cheering for an additional situation to occur. We would prefer the path of peace. What Trump would prefer is a deal... that is, so far, not the route that Iran has chosen.”
Rubio further stressed the strategic importance of restoring maritime stability in the region, particularly in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global oil transit route. “Many nations - some privately and some publicly, asked the US to help free their ships and to restore freedom of navigation in the Straits of Hormuz... And so President Trump, stepped up and answered the calls for their help and has directed the US military to guide these stranded ships to safety... And this is the first step towards reopening the Strait and bringing this regime's act of economic arson, bringing that to a close. Only we're doing it not only because we were asked, but because we're the only ones who can... Under President Trump, the United States will help our friends. We are going to stand up to rogue regimes like the one in Tehran and we are going to be unashamed to use our power and our abilities to project military power in the service of our national interests above all else.”
Issuing a stern warning to Tehran, Rubio added, “It really is important for them to understand that they should not test the will of the United States, at least not under President Donald Trump. He has proven time and again that he will back up what he says. And if they test him, ultimately, they will lose...”
MAGA boss Trump echoed a similarly hardline stance, asserting that Iran’s military infrastructure had been effectively dismantled. “Iran has no chance. They never did. They know it. They express it to me when I talk to them. Then they get on television, and they say how well they are doing. They have no Navy, totally wiped out. They have no Air Force, totally wiped out. They have no anti-aircraft capability... Their leaders are wiped out... I read the papers, and they say how well they are doing. They are not doing well....”
Reiterating his administration’s core objective, Trump said, “We are truly making America great again. We are doing record business. We have a stock market that hit even with this military operation... We can't let Iran have a nuclear weapon... They have no navy, no air force, no anti-aircraft equipment. They have nothing. They have no leaders. The leaders happen to be gone, too. But can't let them have a nuclear weapon...”
Source: indiatimes.com
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https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/us/operation-epic-fury-concluded-trump-aide-declares-objectives-achieved-in-iran-action/articleshowprint/130842075.cms
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Israeli beauty queen says she bumped into Zohran Mamdani's wife at a cafe, Rama Duwaji 'refused to engage'
May 6, 2026
Melanie Shiraz, Miss Israel 2025, posted a video of a chance meeting NYC mayor Zohran Mamdani's wife Rama Duwaji at a Brooklyn cafe and alleged that Duwaji refused to engage with her on the issue of Palestine. "So, guess who sat next to me at a cafe in New York?" Shiraz, 27, said in an Instagram video calling out the 28-year-old first lady of New York City. "None other than Zohran Mamdani's wife, Rama Duwaji — the same Rama Duwaji who posted horribly antisemitic, anti-Israel and terror sympathizing things not that long ago and also apologized for it."
Shiraz said Duwaji was willing to pose for a photo with her until she learned of her nationality.
"Until I told her that, as an Israeli, I was disappointed in seeing the kind of rhetoric she was promoting online," Shiraz said. "But I told her part of my ideology as an Israeli is to have productive dialogue in which one side is not constantly dehumanized."
"But the shift in demeanor was evident, and the lack of willingness to engage even more so," Shiraz wrote on Tuesday. "I approached the interaction with openness to a genuine, respectful conversation. That openness was not reciprocated. And that, perhaps, is the more telling point: how often this disconnect appears, and how normalized it has become."
Rama Duwaji came under heat for her social media activities expressing hatred towards Israel, though Mamdani shielded her and said she is a private person who has no former role in the administration.Rama Duwaji did not issue a statement on the claim of the beauty queen. The video too does not show any conversation between them.
Duwaji apologized last month for social media posts she reportedly made as a teenager, saying she was "truly sorry" for sharing messages with language "so harmful to others," -- without providing additional details. One post insisted Tel Aviv "shouldn't exist," while another praised Palestinian militant Shadia Abu Ghazaleh — a member of the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine, a US-designated terrorist organization.
“When a tabloid recently published old tweets I wrote as a teenager, I felt a lot of shame being confronted with language I used that is so harmful to others; being 15 doesn’t excuse it," Duwaji said last month. "I’ve read and seen a lot of what others have had to say in response, and I understand the hurt I caused and am truly sorry."
Source: indiatimes.com
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https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/us/israeli-beauty-queen-says-she-bumped-into-zohran-mamdanis-wife-at-a-cafe-rama-duwaji-refused-to-engage/articleshowprint/130838939.cms
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Africa
Xenophobic Attacks: You Are Blinded By Your Selfish Interest – Okai Blasts Orji Kalu
May 6, 2026
A chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Austin Okai, has urged Igbo leaders to call the senator representing Abia North, Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, to order over his comments on the ongoing xenophobic attacks in South Africa.
Naija News reports that Kalu had advised against taking drastic actions against South Africa, warning that it could destroy the bilateral relationship between the two African nations.
While other senators warned that if the heinous attack were sustained, Nigerians will retaliate through South African companies, Orji Kalu said “let us not kill our relationship with South Africa”.
He accused Senators of expressing anger on the matter for wanting to be seen on television.
Reacting via a Facebook post, Okai stated that Kalu’s kindred are even more affected in the xenophobic attack.
He wrote, “Why is Orji Kalu acting this way? His own people are the primary victims of these barbaric and evil xenophobic attacks in South Africa, yet he seems blinded by selfish interests. It is hard to believe. Are there no leaders in Igbo land who can caution him?
“I have far more respect for the likes of Senator Ningi, Oshiomhole, and others. Kalu really failed here. I raised this issue on TV two weeks ago, and I am glad it is finally gaining the attention it deserves”.
Source: naijanews.com
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https://www.naijanews.com/2026/05/06/xenophobic-attacks-selfish-interest-okai-orji-kalu/
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Muslim leaders deny role in Ani’s arrest in Enugu
May 6, 2026
By Chinedu Adonu
Muslim leaders in Enugu State have denied allegations linking them to the arrest of Alhaji Musa Ani, describing claims circulating on social media as false and misleading.
The leaders clarified that Ani was invited and subsequently arrested by the police following petitions over alleged mismanagement of the Enugu Islamic Centre.
Speaking to journalists in Enugu, Chairman of Jama’atu Izalatil Bid’ah Wa Iqamatus Sunnah in the state, Hon. Alhaji Ibrahim Ezeani, said the arrest was carried out by security agencies after repeated demands for accountability.
“The claim that Muslim leaders arrested Alhaji Musa Ani is false. His arrest followed petitions requesting a detailed account of his stewardship over the Islamic Centre spanning more than 30 years,” Ezeani said.
He added that Ani was arrested alongside an associate after failing to adequately respond to concerns raised by members of the Muslim community and a steering committee set up to oversee the centre.
According to him, the Department of State Services had earlier intervened in the dispute, issuing terms of reference that included a comprehensive audit of the centre’s finances.
Ezeani explained that the Islamic Centre, established in 1958, was built for all Muslims in the then Eastern Region and not for any specific ethnic group.
He, however, lamented the current state of the facility, noting that it has deteriorated from a functional hub with schools and a mosque into a largely commercial space.
“The centre has been overtaken by artisans and activities inconsistent with Islamic principles, while revenues generated over the years have not been properly accounted for,” he said.
Other Muslim leaders echoed similar concerns, insisting that the centre belongs to all المسلمين irrespective of ethnic background and calling for urgent steps to restore its original purpose.
President of the Yoruba Muslim Community in Enugu, Alfa Abdul Adeyemi, said the centre was established through collective contributions to promote both Islamic and Western education.
A leader of the Arewa community in the state, Alhaji Muhammad Bello, also dismissed claims of exclusive ownership, attributing the centre’s decline to years of poor management and lack of transparency.
Chairman of the steering committee, Alhaji Kassim Ofordile Idoko, said a new management structure was constituted following DSS intervention, with a mandate to revive the centre.
Chief Imam of Nsukka Central Mosque, Yakubu Abdullahi Omeh, called for government intervention to sustain peace within the Muslim community, warning that ongoing disputes could fuel division.
He traced the ownership dispute back to 1993, noting that a government white paper had affirmed that the land belongs to the entire Muslim community in Enugu, not any tribe.
The cleric urged all parties to respect the ruling and work together to restore the centre’s educational and religious functions.
The leaders unanimously called for a legal resolution of the dispute and renewed commitment to repositioning the Islamic Centre for the benefit of the Muslim community.
Source: vanguardngr.com
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https://www.vanguardngr.com/2026/05/muslim-leaders-deny-role-in-anis-arrest-in-enugu/
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Alleged Coup: ‘N10m paid to me was for prayers’ – Cleric
May 6, 2026
By Ikechukwu Nnochiri, ABUJA
An Islamic cleric, Sheikh Bukar Kashim Goni, who was accused of complicity in an alleged plot to overthrow President Bola Tinubu’s administration through a coup d’état, has claimed that over N10 million transferred to his bank account was for prayers.
Sheikh Goni is one of the six defendants facing trial before the Federal High Court in Abuja over the botched coup plot.
Other defendants in the charge marked FHC/ABJ/CR/206/2026, which was filed by the Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, are retired Major General Mohammed Ibrahim Gana; retired Naval Captain Erasmus Ochegobia Victor; serving Police Inspector Ahmed Ibrahim; and two others—Zekeri Umoru and Abdulkadir Sani.
At the resumed proceedings on Tuesday, the court, presided over by Justice Joyce Abdulmalik, viewed video evidence that depicted an interaction the Islamic cleric had with security operatives who investigated the case.
When the investigators confronted the defendant with financial records showing multi-million-naira transfers allegedly linked to the principal suspect, Colonel Mohammed Ma’aji, he immediately denied his involvement in any plot against President Tinubu.
The defendant insisted all funds he received from Col. Ma’aji were strictly for “prayers and charitable purposes.”
Explaining that he relocated to Karu in Abuja after fleeing insurgency in Maiduguri, the defendant told the investigators that his relationship with Ma’aji was based on religious interactions and requests for spiritual support.
According to him, the military officer approached him for prayers over alleged promotion delays and other personal challenges.
Despite his stoic denial of any affiliation with the alleged coup plot, investigators queried his explanation using evidence from his financial records, which allegedly showed transfers to him starting in March 2023—months before the promotion issues he referenced
The investigators equally drew his attention to transactions allegedly running into millions of naira, including a ₦10 million transfer said to have been made in October 2024.
He was further asked to explain how some of his discussions with the primary suspect included references to gaining “access” and acquiring “work tools,” which the investigators said pointed to a broader operation, like the planned coup.
However, Sheikh Goni maintained his position, insisting he had no knowledge of any illegal plan, saying he neither had any involvement in political nor military activities.
In another video viewed in open court, another defendant, Umoru—a staff member of Julius Berger Nigeria attached to the maintenance department of the Presidential Villa—claimed he was “misled” into associating with Col. Ma’aji.
He also denied knowingly participating in any coup plot.
Nevertheless, the defendant admitted receiving several cash payments, including a “Ghana Must Go” bag that allegedly contained ₦8.8 million.
The defendant said he believed the transactions were related to business opportunities.
The court had previously viewed video evidence in which some of the defendants allegedly admitted participating in coded communications, meetings and reconnaissance activities around the Presidential Villa, although they denied involvement in any concrete attempt to overthrow the government.
Trial Justice Abdulmalik adjourned further hearing in the case until May 11, 12, and 13.
The FG, in the charge before the court, alleged that the defendants, sometime in September 2025, conspired to levy war against the state to overawe President Tinubu—an offence punishable under Section 37(2) of the Criminal Code.
It was further alleged that the defendants had prior knowledge of a planned treasonable act involving Col. Ma’aji and others but failed to alert the appropriate authorities.
The FG stated that they rendered assistance to Col. Ma’aji, as shown by their failure to disclose the coup plot to the President or a peace officer.
The defendants were also accused of failing to take preventive steps, having “not used any reasonable endeavours to prevent the commission of the offence.”
Other allegations centred on terrorism-related offences under the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.
The defendants were said to have conspired to commit an act of terrorism in Nigeria.
Upon their arraignment before the court on April 22, the defendants pleaded not guilty to the 13-count charge and were remanded in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS) pending determination of the case.
Timipre Sylva — a former governor of Bayelsa State who also served as Minister of State for Petroleum Resources under the late former President Muhammadu Buhari — was also mentioned in the charge.
The former governor is said to be at large after fleeing the country before the alleged coup plot was exposed.
The allegations against the defendants include treason, terrorism, failure to disclose security intelligence, and money laundering in furtherance of terrorist acts.
Source: vanguardngr.com
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https://www.vanguardngr.com/2026/05/alleged-coup-plot-over-n10m-paid-to-me-was-for-prayers-islamic-cleric-insists/
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Islam Has Suffered Reputational Damage Under Tinubu – Datti Baba-Ahmed
May 5, 2026
By Justina Otio
Former vice presidential candidate, Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed, has claimed that Islam has been negatively impacted under the incumbent administration led by President Bola Tinubu.
He made the remark at a political event hosted by the Peoples Redemption Party (PRP) in Abuja on Monday.
According to him, Islam is suffering global reputational damage under the Tinubu/Shettima presidency.
He contrasted Nigeria’s situation with countries led by Muslim leaders, citing examples like Gaddafi and Saddam Hussein, who, despite human rights abuses, achieved significant human development.
Baba-Ahmed explained that his comments aren’t about religion but about genuine leadership and authentic representation, regardless of faith.
He said, “Listen carefully. It’s not easy for me to say this. And I hope one day I will not regret it, for saying this, but it’s not easy, but it must be said.”
Baba-Ahmed then commented on global perceptions, stating, “The world of Islam has never suffered reputational damage as under the Tinubu-Shettima presidency.
“All over the world, where Muslims have ruled or are ruling, there is peace and tranquillity, and there is justice.”
Referencing past leaders, he said, “Go to the countries where you’ve had maximum Muslim dictators. I mean, start from Gaddafi. Start with Saddam Hussein. Look at, besides the human rights abuses, they have established records that are yet unsurpassed.”
He reiterated that, “Human development index of Gaddafi, no one can meet it in the world, up till today. Only when you cross their path then they will kill or destroy you.”
Clarifying his position, Baba-Ahmed said, “This is not about religion, and if you are presenting religion, then present the genuine candidates, the real ones, who will govern by the dictates of their religion.
“That is why I started by telling you that God Almighty does not make mistakes. We want, if you are bringing a Christian, we want a genuine Christian. If you are bringing a Muslim, we want a genuine Muslim.”
Source: naijanews.com
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https://www.naijanews.com/2026/05/05/islam-reputational-damage-tinubu-datti-baba-ahmed/
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Nigeria targets $2tr halal meat market
May 5, 2026
by Daniel Essiet
Nigeria is positioning itself to capture a share of the global halal meat industry, valued at over $2 trillion, by leveraging its vast livestock base, improving certification systems, and riding a growing wave of structured investments aimed at transforming the sector into a scalable, export-ready value chain.
The ambition comes amid rising global demand for halal products, driven by a fast-growing Muslim population and increasingly quality-conscious consumers.
According to IndexBox’s Asia halal food market analysis, the region alone is projected to account for between $900 billion and $1.1 trillion, underpinned by over 1.8 billion Muslim consumers and expanding demand that now stretches beyond meat into processed foods, pharmaceuticals, and specialty ingredients.
Leading the push for the entry into the lucrative market is the Head of Operations, Dar Al Halal Certification, Dr. Maiyaki Sani, who said the country has a strategic geographic advantage in supplying key halal markets such as Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, Malaysia, and Indonesia.
Sani explained that tightening global regulations are reshaping trade flows, as importing countries enforce stricter compliance with Islamic dietary laws.
“These include proper Islamic slaughtering methods, humane treatment, and ethical processing, aligning with the strict halal regulations of Saudi Arabia, Malaysia, Indonesia, and GCC nations,” he said, adding that this guarantees meat products are authentic, transparent, and “100 per cent halal-certified.”
He noted that the competitive edge in the global halal market increasingly depends on “branding, certification integrity, and consumer trust,” especially as concerns over food fraud, mislabelling, and cross-contamination push regulators toward full supply chain traceability.
Data from the IndexBox report showed that halal-certified ingredients such as emulsifiers, enzymes, and gelatin alternatives are growing at 8–10 percent annually, while emerging segments like plant-based and lab-grown halal proteins are entering pilot phases in markets such as Singapore, Malaysia, and the UAE, attracting premiums of 30–50 per cent among younger consumers.
According to analysts, Nigeria’s opportunity lies not only in exports but also in fixing structural inefficiencies within its domestic livestock economy. With an estimated livestock population exceeding 200 million and annual meat consumption put at about 1.5 million metric tons, the nation represents one of Africa’s largest animal protein markets. The red meat segment alone, analysts noted, is valued at roughly ₦1 trillion at production level, with even higher value at retail.
Recent developments, however, suggest a shift toward formalisation and investment-led growth. At a high-level investment matchmaking platform convened under the African Pastoral Markets Development (APMD) initiative in Abuja, stakeholders unlocked ₦3.7 billion in commitments, alongside forward contracts and supply chain agreements aimed at strengthening production and processing linkages. The meeting catalysed concrete transactions, including a deal in which ABIS Group onboarded the Livestock Butchery and Cooperative Society to supply 100 cattle per week, each averaging 550 kilogrammes.
Additional agreements involving producers and processors such as Majestic Farms, Abbat Abattoir, and MACBAN focused on consistent volumes and quality control, signalling growing confidence in structured upstream supply systems.
In parallel, Nebula Technologies introduced a digital transformation layer by offering its Farmers ERP platform to 27 stakeholders, enabling improved data capture, traceability, and performance monitoring. This intervention is expected to address long-standing data gaps that have limited access to finance, insurance, and large-scale investment.
Financial institutions participating in the forum highlighted expanding opportunities across feed systems, commercial ranching, processing infrastructure, and cold chain logistics, reinforcing the view of livestock as an emerging commercial asset class.
Rising geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, particularly involving the U.S., Israel, and Iran, have disrupted key shipping routes and increased freight and insurance costs. The impact is already being felt across livestock export corridors, with higher logistics costs and delays affecting supply chains from East Africa to major Gulf markets. Seasonal demand spikes further illustrate the scale of opportunity.
In Qatar, for instance, import volumes surge during Ramadan and Eid, with companies bringing in an estimated 100,000 head of sheep and other livestock to meet consumption needs.
Against this backdrop, the Federal Government’s strategy is now hinged on aligning its production systems with global halal standards while simultaneously modernising its domestic supply chains.
Source: thenationonlineng.net
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https://thenationonlineng.net/nigeria-targets-2tr-halal-meat-market/
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Uganda parliament passes controversial ‘Sovereignty Bill' after amendments
May 6, 2026
Uganda’s parliament has passed a contentious new law critics warn could be used to silence dissent, despite last-minute amendments aimed at softening some of its provisions.
The so-called “Protection of Sovereignty Bill” was approved late Tuesday after a heated debate, with lawmakers backing changes that removed a clause classifying Ugandans abroad as “foreigners” and exempted certain institutions — including medical, academic and faith-based organisations — from restrictions on foreign funding.
The legislation criminalises actions deemed to promote “the interests of a foreigner against those of Uganda” and labels individuals or groups receiving foreign funding as “agents of foreigners.”
Those convicted under the law could face prison sentences of up to 20 years.
“This is a historic bill,” said parliamentary speaker Anita Among, as supporters hailed the move as a step toward safeguarding national sovereignty.
The bill’s proposer argued it was designed to protect Uganda’s self-governance “without undue external interference,” and bars designated “agents” from engaging in political activities linked to foreign interests.
However, rights groups, opposition figures and sections of the business community have strongly criticised the law, warning it mirrors “foreign agent” legislation used in countries like Russia to crack down on civil society.
Human Rights Watch said the bill uses vague language that could be broadly applied to target activists and organisations, adding it risks further shrinking civic space in a country already accused of suppressing dissent.
Opposition MP Gilbert Olanya warned the legislation could damage Uganda’s economy and create a punitive legal environment, but calls to withdraw the bill were overwhelmingly rejected.
The move comes under the long rule of President Yoweri Museveni, in power for four decades, whose government has faced repeated accusations of authoritarianism and repression of political opponents.
Source: africanews.com
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https://www.africanews.com/2026/05/06/uganda-parliament-passes-controversial-sovereignty-bill-after-amendments/
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Obi, Kwankwaso Supporters Insist Presidency Should Remain In South
May 6, 2026
By Enioluwa Adeniyi
Supporters of former Anambra State Governor, Peter Obi, and former Kano State Governor, Rabiu Kwankwaso, have insisted that equity demands that the presidency should remain in the South in 2027.
Naija News reports that the National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement Worldwide, Yunusa Tanko, and the National Publicity Secretary of the Obi–Kwankwaso Movement, Justin Ijeh, said zoning remained important for fairness and national balance.
Tanko, in an interview with Punch, said the demand for a southern presidential ticket was based on the fact that the current presidency is already zoned to the South.
He said, “Yes, we are concerned about the zoning. That was why we’ve been asking for the presidency to be zoned to the southern part of this country, considering the simple fact that the presidency has been zoned to the south.
“As you speak right now, what we have is a southern presidency. So, once you have a southern president, it simply means that even if there is going to be a replacement for the existing president, it should come from the south for them to complete their tenure.
“I think it is only fair to do that. And that was why Mr Peter Obi has also agreed that he’s going to do only four years.”
Tanko said Obi would likely emerge as the consensus candidate if the opposition adopts a southern ticket.
According to him, the former Labour Party presidential candidate enjoys strong support across the country, especially among young Nigerians.
He said, “Oh, of course. That is because he’s the most popular candidate in the country at the moment. I’m being humble about it, and I thank God for it. He’s the most popular, especially among the youth. Anywhere he goes, he is adored.
“Let me give you an instance. We were on our way to Ibadan the other day, and we passed through the international and local airports. You need to see the kind of love and euphoria people showered on him. It was amazing.
“The whole hall was agog with Nigerians shouting ‘Obi, Obi, Obi.’ It was so emotional for him and for some of us who are following him. So that is to tell you the kind of love and support Nigerians are ready to give this man.”
‘Zoning Promotes Balance’ – Ijeh
Ijeh also defended zoning, describing it as a practical tool for ensuring balanced representation in Nigeria.
He said, “While it is not embedded in the Nigerian constitution, and while competence and character are the gold standard for leadership ideally, zoning is a pragmatic approach to balanced representation and equity in a multipolar society like Nigeria.
“It has been practised as a convention since the return of democratic rule. Certain politicians, however, may choose to play to the gallery about it when their personal interests and ambitions are not favoured by it.
“In the current calculus for Nigeria, given our very recent political trajectory, it only makes sense for the zoning principle to be applied and for the presidency to remain in the South, in keeping with that convention. Anything else sets the country up for divisive complications in the near-term future, and nobody needs that.”
Source: naijanews.com
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Southeast Asia
Government sets strict conditions for pig farming, limits sites away from residential areas
6 May 2026
Malaysia limits pig farming to remote areas with high-tech waste systems to protect water sources and residential zones.
PETALING JAYA: The government has set new conditions for pig farming, limiting its development to areas far from residential zones and critical water sources, including rivers and streams.
Speaking at the weekly post-Cabinet press conference today, Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil said the matter was discussed following briefings by the Prime Minister, who had also presented the issue to the Sultan of Selangor and held talks with the Selangor Menteri Besar.
“The government’s position is that any pig farming activity must only be carried out in newly designated areas and must adopt high-technology systems capable of effectively managing waste and pollution,” he said.
It was previously reported that Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim had called for the proposed centralised pig farming project in Bukit Tagar, Selangor, to be put on hold or relocated to a more suitable site following public concern.
He said the matter, which was raised at a Cabinet meeting, should be discussed with the Selangor Menteri Besar to find the best solution.
Meanwhile, the Selangor government said it has yet to identify an alternative site but remains open to discussions on improving livestock farming management.
The issue also drew attention from the Sultan of Selangor, who had previously expressed disappointment over the state’s plan to allow temporary pig farming operations in Kuala Langat before relocating them to Bukit Tagar.
Source: thesun.my
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Deeper Malaysia–Philippines partnership crucial to shaping Asean’s future, says former Yang di-Pertua Negeri of Penang
06 May 2026
KUALA LUMPUR, May 6 — Malaysia can play a vital role in shaping Asean’s future by working closely with the Philippines, the current Asean chair, to advance key regional initiatives, said former Yang di-Pertua Negeri of Penang Tun Ahmad Fuzi Abdul Razak.
He said that among the proposed regional initiatives are the Digital Asean Commons, aimed at integrating digital economies, data governance and innovation ecosystems across the region, as well as the Regional Supply Chain Resilience Initiative, which aims to position Asean as the world’s most reliable and diversified manufacturing hub.
“Other initiatives include Asean Green Transition Partnership, which aims to mobilise public and private sector investment in sustainable energy and climate resilience, and the Asean Talent Mobility Framework to facilitate the movement of skilled professionals across borders,” he said in his keynote address at the Asean Leadership and Partnership Forum (ALPF) 2026 here today.
He also highlighted Track 1.5 and Track 2 diplomacy platforms to bring together governments, businesses and academia to anticipate and respond to geopolitical shifts for the benefit of Asean.
“All these initiatives require not only government support and leadership, but also private sector dynamism and regional collaboration, with entrepreneurship as the driving force,” he added.
Touching on Asean centrality, Ahmad Fuzi said it must be understood in practical terms, noting that it is not only about convening but also about strategic coordination, credibility and coherence.
At the national level, Malaysia needs to strengthen economic resilience and diversification, invest in digital transformation and green growth and build human capital for future industries, while at the regional level, he said Malaysia must deepen Asean economic integration, including energy resilience, strengthen intra-Asean trade and investment and enhance connectivity physically, digitally and financially.
At the global level, he added, Asean must uphold multilateralism and open trade, engage all major powers constructively through strategic balance, maintain Asean centrality in the regional architecture and preserve openness while managing risks.
Ahmad Fuzi, who is also the former Foreign Ministry secretary-general, stressed that Asean has always thrived not because the world was stable, but because the organisation has been adaptable and resilient.
He noted that with a population of over 680 million people and a combined gross domestic product exceeding US$4 trillion, Asean is the fifth largest economy in the world.
Despite a decline in global foreign direct investment, Asean attracted over US$226 billion in foreign direct investments, reinforcing its role as a global growth engine.
He added that supply chain diversification has also brought new investments into the region, particularly in electronics and manufacturing.
The ALPF 2026, held under the theme “Navigating Asean in a New Geopolitical Era: Keeping Centrality, Securing Prosperity, Empowering People” served as a strategic platform for dialogue on economic resilience, digital transformation, energy transition and regional integration.
The one-day forum was jointly organised by the KSI Strategic Institute for Asia Pacific in collaboration with key regional partners, including the Asean Economic Club, Asean Business Advisory Council, Asean Business Club and supported by the World Digital Chamber.
The forum was attended by nearly 200 participants, including a strong representation of business and government leaders, with notable participation from the Philippines, which joined the sessions virtually. — Bernama
Source: malaymail.com
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Anwar to lead Malaysian delegation to Cebu for 48th Asean Summit
06 May 2026
CEBU (Philippines), May 6 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim will be leading the Malaysian delegation to the 48th Asean Summit and Related Meetings here, from May 7 to 8.
Malaysian ambassador to the Philippines Datuk Abdul Malik Melvin Castelino Anthony said Asean leaders are expected to discuss impact of the West Asia conflict on the South-east Asian region and the bloc’s response towards ensuring regional energy and food security.
He said Malaysia’s participation in the event demonstrates its commitment and resolve to strengthening Asean centrality, unity, and resilience in an increasingly complex global environment.
“The 48th Asean Summit and Related Meetings will be an opportunity for Malaysia to share and exchange views on various issues on Asean Community building and the way forward.
“Discussions will also be focused on the impacts of the crisis in West Asia to the South-east Asian region and Asean’s response towards ensuring regional energy and food security, as well as safety of Asean nationals in the affected areas,” he told Malaysian reporters Wednesday.
Abdul Malik said Anwar, who is also Finance Minister, will be accompanied by wife Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Dr Wan Ismail, Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hassan, Investment, Trade, and Industry Minister Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani, and Deputy Economy Minister Datuk Indera Mohd Shahar Abdullah.
Upon arrival on Thursday, Anwar will participate in the Special Brunei Darussalam-Indonesia-Malaysia-Philippines East Asean Growth Area (BIMP-EAGA) Summit.
“On Friday, he will participate in the 48th Asean Summit, and is expected to have sideline meetings with some of his Asean counterparts,” he added.
Meanwhile, on Thursday, Mohamad will attend the Asean Foreign Ministers’ Meeting, the 31st Asean Political-Security Community Council Meeting, the 38th Asean Coordinating Council Meeting, as well as the Asean Joint Foreign and Economic Ministers’ Meeting.
“The Asean Joint Foreign and Economic Ministers’ Meeting is a continuation of the process that was initiated under Malaysia’s chairmanship to ensure coordination between the political-security and economic pillars.
“It is an approach that is increasingly relevant in light of evolving regional and global developments,” Abdul Malik said.
The Philippines took over the Asean chairmanship from Malaysia on Jan 1, 2026. Themed “Navigating Our Future, Together,” the republic during its tenure seeks to steer Asean’s priorities through three pillars: Peace and Security Anchors, Prosperity Corridors, and People Empowerment.
The Philippines will be hosting over 650 Asean meetings, including two summits and 24 ministerial meetings.
Cebu, dubbed the Queen City of the South, is hosting the 48th Asean Summit and Related Meetings from May 6 to 8, 2026.
The city is ranked as the Philippines’ second major international gateway after Manila, and widely recognised as a primary maritime logistics hub.
Home to over 5 million residents, Cebu serves as a key trading, shipping, and business-processing centre in the southern Philippines.
Data released by the Philippine Statistics Authority show Cebu’s economy grew 5.9 per cent in 2024, buoyed by solid performance in the services and industry sectors.
In 2024, Cebu accounted for about 15 per cent of the country’s total full-time information technology and business process management (IT-BPM) workforce, according to industry data from the IT and Business Process Association of the Philippines. — Bernama
Source: malaymail.com
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King departs for Moscow at Putin’s invitation for Victory Day events
06 May 2026
KUALA LUMPUR, May 6 — His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, has departed for Moscow at the invitation of President Vladimir Putin ahead of Russia’s Victory Day celebrations on May 9.
According to a Facebook post by the King, his private aircraft took off from the Royal Hangar at Senai International Airport at 8 am today.
The special invitation from the Russian president reflects Moscow’s high regard for Malaysia.
Present at the Royal Hangar to bid farewell were Tunku Temenggong Johor Tunku Idris Iskandar Al-Haj Sultan Ibrahim, and Tunku Putera Johor Tunku Abu Bakar Al-Haj Sultan Ibrahim.
Johor Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi, Inspector-General of Police Datuk Seri Mohd Khalid Ismail, Bukit Aman Crime Prevention and Community Safety Department director Datuk Seri Mohd Yusri Hassan Basri, and Johor Police chief Datuk Ab Rahaman Arsad were in attendance.
Members of the Johor State Executive Council and state government officials were also present. — Bernama
Source: malaymail.com
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Saudi envoy praises Malaysia ties, highlights smoother Haj services and reforms, says ‘daging dendeng’ a favourite
06 May 2026
KUALA LUMPUR, May 6 — The newly appointed Saudi Ambassador to Malaysia, who has been in the country since January this year, recently shared his early impressions and priorities in a wide-ranging interview with Bernama, the Malaysian national news agency.
In the interview, Osamah Dakhdel Al Ahmadi reflected on the steady progress of Malaysia-Saudi Arabia relations, underpinned by strong political will and expanding economic cooperation, particularly in line with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030.
He reiterated the Kingdom’s continued commitment to enhancing services for Haj pilgrims, including those from Malaysia, while outlining Saudi Arabia’s diplomatic approach to regional developments, emphasising stability, restraint, and dialogue.
On a more personal note, he expressed his appreciation for Malaysia’s rich culinary diversity, singling out daging dendeng, a thinly sliced, savoury-sweet and spicy dried beef dish, as a particular favourite.
The following is the full transcript of the interview with Bernama.
Malaysia-Saudi economic ties: How do you assess current business and investment relations between Malaysia and Saudi Arabia? Are there new sectors or opportunities that both sides should explore further?
Saudi-Malaysian relations are witnessing rapid, substantive development, reflecting the keenness of the leadership of both countries to elevate them to broader and more firmly established levels.
The exchange of official visits, the most recent of which were the visits of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim in 2023-2024 and His Majesty King Ibrahim Sultan Iskandar to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in November 2025, have contributed to establishing a more robust and deeper relationship.
During these visits, emphasis was placed on strengthening cooperation in sectors of common priority, taking advantage of the investment opportunities offered by the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 and Malaysia’s Madani Vision, building on the achievements of the Saudi-Malaysian Coordination Council (SMCC), and developing partnerships across multiple fields that serve the interests of both countries.
The two brotherly countries enjoy strong relations and growing political and economic ties, and are keen to continue along this positive path, reflecting their shared will to expand areas of cooperation, enhance mutual trust, and propel the relationship to broader horizons in the coming phase.
Economic cooperation between the Kingdom and Malaysia offers broad and growing opportunities, especially given the attractive environment for quality projects and value-added investments provided by the Kingdom’s Vision 2030.
There is increasing interest in expanding partnerships in the fields of investment, renewable energy, industry, construction, tourism, logistics, and modern technologies-sectors in which companies in both countries possess distinctive expertise and which represent a priority within the economic transformation process.
The ambition is not limited to increasing the volume of trade exchange, but also includes building sustainable partnerships based on the transfer of expertise, stimulating mutual investments, and developing joint projects that benefit both countries.
Haj preparations: As the upcoming Haj approaches, how are preparations progressing this year? What assurances can you offer to pilgrims, particularly in terms of safety, logistics and overall experience?
Serving pilgrims is a deeply rooted mission and a major responsibility for the Kingdom, receiving continuous attention from its leadership. It is not merely a seasonal organisational aspect, but rather an integral part of a comprehensive vision aimed at facilitating the Haj and Umrah pilgrimages and enhancing the quality of services provided at every stage.
The Kingdom continues to improve its services, organisational and technological infrastructure to provide a more convenient environment, reassuring, and comfortable experience for pilgrims from around the world, including Malaysian pilgrims.
The Kingdom launched the “Makkah Route” initiative, which allows pilgrims to complete their entry procedures at their home airports and proceed directly to their accommodations.
This initiative includes Malaysia, reflecting its direct impact on facilitating the journey of Malaysian pilgrims.
On the West Asia situation: How would you describe West Asia’s current geopolitical landscape, and what is Saudi Arabia’s position on the ongoing conflicts? To what extent have these developments affected the Kingdom?
The Kingdom possesses a steadfast vision based on supporting stability, preventing the escalation of crises, and prioritising political and diplomatic solutions.
This stems from its conviction that the region’s security and prosperity can only be achieved through dialogue, respect for the sovereignty of states, and addressing crises at their root causes, thereby safeguarding the interests of their peoples and preventing further escalation.
The Kingdom’s position is clear and firm; the Kingdom condemns the brutal Iranian attacks targeting the Kingdom, the Gulf States, and Jordan, considering them an unacceptable violation of state sovereignty and a direct threat to the region’s security and stability.
The Kingdom categorically rejects any pretexts that attempt to justify these attacks.
Saudi Arabia has officially affirmed that it will not allow the use of its airspace or territory to attack Iran. Therefore, these claims are completely unacceptable. Furthermore, the Kingdom continues to exercise the utmost wisdom and restraint.
The Kingdom continues to work, in coordination with other countries, to support efforts aimed at de-escalating the situation, pushing for a ceasefire, and restoring regional stability.
These unjustified attacks target countries not party to the war, striking civilian infrastructure, energy facilities, and residential areas, directly affecting the interests of citizens and residents.
The Kingdom calls for an immediate cessation of these attacks, an end to the escalation, and adherence to international law and the principles of good neighbourliness, in order to preserve the region’s security and stability.
Energy and global markets: Amid evolving global energy dynamics, how is Saudi Arabia balancing its role as a leading oil producer with the global transition towards renewable energy?
The Kingdom addresses the stability of energy markets and the protection of vital waterways in accordance with international law.
It emphasises the importance of the safety of maritime routes and freedom of navigation, including the Strait of Hormuz and the Bab el-Mandeb Strait.
Any threat to these waterways not only affects the global economy and international energy security but also affects the movement of trade and essential goods, including food supplies, that directly affect the needs of nations and peoples.
From this perspective, the Kingdom’s East-West pipeline stands out as a crucial strategic route for enhancing the stability of global supplies, particularly given the escalating military confrontations and their direct impact on maritime traffic in the Strait of Hormuz.
This pipeline provides the Kingdom with significant flexibility in transporting supplies to the Red Sea coast via secure alternative routes, thereby ensuring the continuity and reliability of supplies and mitigating the effects of regional tensions.
Crisis response and humanitarian efforts: How is Saudi Arabia contributing to humanitarian assistance and reconstruction efforts in conflict-affected areas?
The Kingdom plays a leading role through its unwavering commitment to its responsibilities.
Humanitarian aid to people affected by wars, natural disasters, and humanitarian crises is embodied by the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Centre, which implements impactful projects and programmes that have alleviated the suffering of millions of people in need around the world.
The Centre has implemented more than 4,000 humanitarian and relief projects in 113 countries, at a cost exceeding US$8 billion (RM31.62 billion), covering numerous vital sectors.
These projects have contributed to providing urgent assistance to those affected, in addition to supporting development programmes that promote stability and improve the quality of life in beneficiary communities.
The Kingdom ranked second globally and first among Arab countries in providing humanitarian and relief aid for the year 2025.
Furthermore, the Kingdom continues its humanitarian support for the Palestinian people through the King Salman Centre for Relief and Humanitarian Aid.
Official data from the centre indicates that 78 planes and eight ships have been dispatched carrying more than 7,706 tonnes of aid, in addition to 914 relief trucks, 20 ambulances, and relief agreements worth more than US$90 million (RM355.72 million), reflecting the combination of the political stance with direct and organised humanitarian action.
The Kingdom has consistently affirmed in its official positions and statements its clear rejection of Israeli aggression and ongoing violations against the Palestinian people.
It is also actively engaged diplomatically with its regional and international partners to support a more effective stance regarding these developments.
One of the most recent examples is the joint position of the Foreign Ministers of the Kingdom and a number of Arab and Islamic countries rejecting the decision passed by the Knesset (the Israeli parliament) regarding imposing the death penalty on Palestinian prisoners, considering it a dangerous escalation that undermines the chances for stability.
The Kingdom continues its active political role, in partnership with France, in leading the international effort to implement the two-state solution. — Bernama
Source: malaymail.com
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Pahang Sultan grants audience to Singapore’s Lee Hsien Loong and delegation
05 May 2026
KUANTAN, May 5 — The Sultan of Pahang, Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah, granted an audience to Singapore Senior Minister Lee Hsien Loong and his wife Ho Ching at Istana Abdulaziz, here today.
His Royal Highness was accompanied by the Tengku Ampuan of Pahang Tunku Azizah Aminah Maimunah Iskandariah and the Regent of Pahang Tengku Hassanal Ibrahim Alam Shah.
The Pahang Sultanate, in its Facebook post, said that His Royal Highness spent about an hour discussing various matters, including potential collaboration and cooperation between Pahang and Singapore.
“His Royal Highness then invited the guests to view the surroundings of the palace, before proceeding to a luncheon,” the post said.
The audience was also attended by the Singapore delegation, including Minister of State in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Social and Family Development, Zhulkarnain Abdul Rahim.
Also part of the delegation were Singapore Member of Parliament Joan Pereira, Singapore High Commissioner to Malaysia Vanu Gopala Menon and officials from Singapore’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Lee is on a five-day official visit to Pahang and Terengganu from May 4 to 8. — Bernama
Source: malaymail.com
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South Asia
Workers’ rights fully ensured within Islamic Sharia framework: Omari
May 6, 2026
KABUL (Pajhwok): Minister of Labour and Social Affairs Mawlawi Abdul Manan Omari has stressed that only Islamic Sharia can fully ensure and protect workers’ rights.
He made the remarks at a ceremony in Kabul on Tuesday to mark International Workers’ Day.
Omari said Islamic Sharia is the best framework for safeguarding workers’ rights compared to other legal systems.
He also said that some important labour institutions, including the National Union of Workers and Employees, had been damaged in the past and had lost their credibility in society.
He added that the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan (IEA) has revived the union and was working to restore its credibility so it can effectively defend workers’ rights.
He explained the union could act as a social partner alongside the ministry in addressing workers’ problems.
Omari assured the ministry, in cooperation with the workers’ union, relevant institutions and the private sector, was working to address workers’ issues and create employment opportunities.
Meanwhile, a message from the supreme leader of IEA was read at the ceremony, stressing full respect for workers’ rights, as well as attention to health, nutrition, leave and other workplace entitlements.
Director of the Workers’ Union and Employees Mawlawi Abdul Mateen Mawlawi Zada described workers’ role in the country’s development as vital and stressed fair wages, improved working conditions and protection of their legitimate rights.
Deputy Minister of Economy Abdul Latif Nazari said workers were the backbone of the country’s economy, announcing the implementation of three worker-focused policies this year, including strengthening skilled labour, supporting domestic production and ensuring job security.
Representatives of government departments and the private sector pledged to support workers’ legal and Sharia-based rights and ensure their observance in workplaces.
Certificates of appreciation were also distributed to a number of workers and skilled employees at the end of the ceremony.
Source: pajhwok.com
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‘Can’t sit and wait for India on Teesta’
6 MAY 2026
Bangladesh will not wait for a Teesta water-sharing deal with India, calling it a matter of “life and death” for river communities, and is instead turning to China to discuss development projects in the region, said Foreign Minister Khalilur Rahman yesterday.
Ahead of his official visit to Beijing, Khalilur told the media the Teesta project would “definitely” be on the agenda.
Asked if Dhaka still hoped for the long-stalled agreement --especially after the BJP’s rise in West Bengal -- he replied, “Look, a government has not yet been formed in West Bengal, and what they think or what they will do is for them to say. It is not my job to read their minds.”
He added, “We hope that the agreement reached at that time can be considered again under the current circumstances. But we cannot just sit and wait for that. We have our own work to do.”
In September 2011, water resource ministers of both countries had reached consensus on the Teesta deal, expected to be signed during then Indian prime minister Manmohan Singh’s Dhaka visit.
It was blocked by opposition from then West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee. With the deal stalled, Bangladesh launched the “Teesta River Comprehensive Management and Restoration Project,” later seeking Chinese assistance during Sheikh Hasina’s 2019 Beijing trip.
Foreign Minister Khalilur Rahman yesterday flew to China on a three-day visit, the first since the BNP government took office.
He will meet Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi to discuss trade, investment, and funding. Bangladesh will seek low-interest loans, extended repayment periods, and new investments.
A foreign ministry official said, “There have not been major Chinese investments in Bangladesh. The Chinese side was slow in taking up new initiatives since the events after the July uprising. Now that there’s a new political government, China is revamping its activities.”
On Monday, China’s foreign ministry spokesperson said Beijing attaches great importance to ties with Bangladesh and hopes to enhance political trust, deepen cooperation, and promote Belt and Road projects.
The spokesperson described the two countries as “friends, close neighbours and comprehensive strategic cooperative partners,” noting that relations have steadily progressed over five decades on the basis of mutual respect and equality.
Source: thedailystar.net
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https://www.thedailystar.net/news/bangladesh/news/cant-sit-and-wait-india-teesta-4168646
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PM stresses transparency in spending public money
6 MAY 2026
Prime Minister Tarique Rahman yesterday stressed the need to ensure transparency and accountability in public spending and the implementation of government projects.
He said public funds are used to serve people, and it must be ensured that the money is spent properly and the objectives of government projects are achieved, according to a press release from the Prime Minister’s Office.
The prime minister also emphasised the need to conduct performance audits alongside compliance audits to assess whether public funds are being used effectively.
He made the remarks when Bangladesh’s Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) Md Nurul Islam presented 38 compliance and performance audit reports to him.
The audit reports cover 17 ministries and divisions, as well as various directorates, offices, institutions, and projects under them.
During the presentation, the CAG apprised the prime minister of the issues highlighted in the reports and the reform measures taken by the audit and accounts department.
Officials concerned said compliance audits examine whether financial rules and procedures are followed in government offices, agencies, and projects.
Performance audits, on the other hand, assess whether the objectives of government projects and activities have been achieved and whether public funds have been used effectively.
Source: thedailystar.net
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Urban Ministry Denies Any Plan to Move Kabul Mandawi
By Fidel Rahmati
May 5, 2026
The Ministry of Urban Development and Housing said a recent meeting focused on building underground parking in commercial buildings and no decision was made to relocate Kabul’s Mandawi market.
Officials said the meeting included relevant agencies and examined ways to develop parking spaces in basements of multi storey commercial buildings across Kabul.
The ministry said the main goal was to address the growing shortage of parking in high rise buildings and reduce pressure on congested streets.
It added that some references to reducing urban congestion were misinterpreted, including mentions of developing commercial centers on the outskirts of the city.
Authorities stressed that relocation of Mandawi was not discussed and no policy decision has been taken on the matter. The ministry said some media reports incorrectly presented the discussion as a confirmed plan to move the historic market.
Meanwhile, traders and residents also voiced opposition to any potential move, warning that even discussion of relocation by the Taliban would face resistance due to Mandawi’s economic importance and historical significance.
Kabul has experienced rapid urban growth in recent years, leading to increased traffic congestion, limited infrastructure and rising demand for parking and transport solutions.
Urban planners have warned that without long term planning, congestion and infrastructure gaps could worsen, affecting economic activity and daily life in the capital.
Similar challenges are seen in other major cities in the region, where rapid population growth has outpaced infrastructure development and urban services.
Experts say underground parking and decentralized commercial zones can help reduce congestion, but require coordinated investment and policy planning.
The ministry said it remains focused on practical solutions to urban challenges while ensuring that major decisions are not miscommunicated.
Officials emphasized the importance of accurate reporting as the government continues to address infrastructure needs and urban development priorities.
Source: khaama.com
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Former Pakistan Envoy Says Afghanistan Stability Hinges on Inclusive Rule
By Fidel Rahmati
May 5, 2026
Asif Durrani said calls for “regime change” risk distracting from the real solution to Afghanistan, stressing that lasting stability depends on an inclusive and legitimate government shaped by Afghans themselves.
In a statement posted on social media, Durrani said externally driven political change may align with foreign agendas but would not address Afghanistan’s core challenges, including governance, legitimacy and public trust.
He criticized the Taliban for rejecting political pluralism and broader participation, warning that this has weakened both domestic and international legitimacy.
Durrani noted that political power remains concentrated between key Taliban factions, including leadership circles in Kabul and Kandahar, limiting meaningful inclusion and decision-making across society.
He emphasized that no political system based on exclusion can endure, warning that a government failing to reflect Afghanistan’s ethnic and political diversity remains fragile and at risk of collapse.
Afghanistan has faced ongoing political and economic crisis since 2021, with limited international recognition of the curent administration and continued restrictions affecting governance and development.
Analysts say the absence of inclusive political structures in Afghanistan has complicated stabilization efforts, as humanitarian needs rise and economic pressures continue to deepen across the country.
Asif Durrani said political change is inevitable, but its direction will shape Afghanistan’s future, particularly whether the Taliban respond to demands for broader inclusion and participation.
He warned that failure to recognize the need for inclusivity could prolong instability, weaken governance and further isolate Afghanistan on the international stage.
Tensions along the Afghanistan-Pakistan border have also intensified, with recurring clashes and security concerns linked to militant activity, underscoring the risks of continued instability in the region.
Source: khaama.com
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IEA’s Structural Changes: Newly Appointed Officials Hoped Do More for People
May 6, 2026
The recent decree by the leadership of the Islamic Emirate, announcing structural changes across ministries, provincial administrations, and security institutions, marks another chapter in the ongoing effort to strengthen governance in Afghanistan. The reshuffle, which involves 19 individuals, reflects a principle deeply rooted in both Islamic values and administrative necessity. Appointments must be based on commitment, expertise, and the ability to serve the people with sincerity.
One of the most notable changes is the dismissal of Hamdullah Nomani as Minister of Communications and Information Technology, with Abdul Ahad Fazli, the former governor of Faryab, appointed in his place. While the decree does not assign a new role to Nomani, the appointment of Fazli signals a desire to bring fresh energy and experience into a ministry that plays a vital role in connecting Afghanistan to the wider world. In an era where communication and technology are essential for economic growth, education, and transparency, the leadership’s choice carries significant weight.
Beyond this single appointment, the reshuffle spans provincial governors, deputy governors, police chiefs, and other administrative posts. Such widespread changes are not merely bureaucratic adjustments; they are opportunities to restore public trust. The people of Afghanistan yearn for leaders who embody both religious commitment and national responsibility, ensuring that governance is not only efficient but also aligned with Islamic principles of justice, accountability, and service.
Transparency and accountability are emphasized as guiding principles in these appointments. Yet, the true test lies ahead. The officials are hoped to use their positions to genuinely serve the people, uphold the values of Islam, and strengthen national unity. The hope is that they will rise to this responsibility, demonstrating that leadership is not about privilege but about service.
For the citizens, these changes bring cautious optimism. Every reshuffle carries the potential to either deepen trust or erode it further. The Islamic Emirate has underscored that appointments must be rooted in expertise and commitment. If this principle is honored in practice, the new officials can become instruments of progress, ensuring that daily affairs are managed with competence and fairness.
God willing, these new appointments will be a source of better service for the people. May the officials entrusted with responsibility use their authority in a manner that is both religiously sound and nationally beneficial. Only through such dedication can the confidence of the people be strengthened, paving the way for a more stable and prosperous Afghanistan.
Source: thekabultimes.com
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