Two Karnatakas: Away from Riot-Hit Mandya, Muslims Celebrate Ganesha Festival and Hindus Gear Up for Eid-e-Milad-un-Nabi
New Age Islam News Bureau
16 Sep 2024
On Sunday, with much pomp and honour, Hindus and Muslims held a grand procession in Karwar before immersing a Ganesha idol, capping nine days of celebrations.
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· Two Karnatakas: Away from Riot-Hit Mandya, Muslims Celebrate Ganesha Festival and Hindus Gear Up for Eid-e-Milad-un-Nabi
· If Islamic Rules Established, “People of All Faiths Can Enjoy the Benefits of Islam”: Islami Andolan Bangladesh
· Abdullah Taps Chief of Staff as Jordan’s New PM After Islamists Gain in Elections
· Nightlife Now Rules in Iraq’s Former Daesh Bastion, Mosul
· Nigerian President, Governors, Senators, Security Chiefs Urge Muslims To Embody Prophet Muhammad’s Virtues
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India
· Ganesh Idol Setup in Telangana Sparks Row Over 'Muslim-Like' Appearance’
· Bihar: Police Detain Two for Carrying Tricolour with 'Crescent Moon, Star' In Place of Ashoka Chakra During Milad-un-Nabi Procession
· Engineer Rashid ties up with Jamaat-e-Islami for Jammu and Kashmir Assembly elections
· Odisha: Seven engineering students expelled from hostel for 'cooking beef' on premises
· Lodi-Era Mosque Collapses in Agra; Tourist Guides' Federation to Purusue Centre To “Conserve The Place And Try To Redevelop The Structure"
· Fresh encounter breaks out in Jammu and Kashmir’s Kathua; Poonch gunfight over
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South Asia
· Former lawmakers Asaduzzaman Noor, Mahbub Ali arrested
· National Food and Medicine Board Meeting Focuses on Safety and Quality
· Nearly 1,500 Afghan migrants arrested in Iran’s Sistan and Baluchestan
· UN: Over 600 Afghan refugees deported from Pakistan in past week
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Mideast
· Palestinians to ‘Jointly Lead Post-War Gaza’
· Yemen Joins Islamic Nations in Celebrating Birth of Master Of Humanity, Upon Whom And His Family Be Best Prayers And Peace
· Iraqi Islamic Resistance Says Attacked Haifa with Drone
· Army says ‘high probability’ Israel air strike caused deaths of 3 hostages in November
· Egypt welcomes UN’s decision to establish position of special envoy on water
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Arab World
· New Diploma in Data Science, AI to Empower Future Tech Leaders
· Saudi, US military officials discuss ways to strengthen partnership
· Three Zakat, Tax, and Customs Authority employees arrested after receiving bribes: Nazaha
· Saudi fund backs $41m revamp of Dominica’s capital
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Africa
· Eid Milad-u -Nabi: Tinubu, Governors, Others Felicitate with Muslims
· Eid-el-Maulud: Mbah Congratulates Muslims, Preaches Love, Peaceful Co-Existence
· Eid-Maulud: Ganduje felicitates with Muslims
· Senator Alli advocates national cohesion for nations progress, felicitates muslims
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Australia
· Southport Imam Recounts Being Trapped Amid Violent Mosque Attack During U.K.’S Far-Right Protests: “Their Eyes Filled with Hatred and Hostility”
· Urgent Media Release On Unfolding Situation at Muslim Schools in Auckland
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Pakistan
· PTI Calls Proposed Amendments to Extend Judges' Tenure An 'Ambush On SC'
· Mosques, buildings decorated to celebrate Eid Milad-un-Nabi (PBUH)
· Govt likely to table constitutional amendment bill in NA today
· PTI ‘made all-out efforts’ to stop amendment
· Bilawal blasts Imran’s tweet; Ayub defends leader
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Europe
· Durham Mosque Donates Thousands of Pounds Riot Funds To Several Charities To 'Help Others'
· Three Ukrainian jets shot down – Russian MOD
· Venezuela foils CIA plot to kill Maduro – interior minister
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North America
· Trump Rushed To Safety And Suspect Held After Man Spotted With Rifle
· US denies claim CIA plotted to kill Venezuela president
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Southeast Asia
· Child Sexual Abuse Cases Should Never Happen with Muslims, Negeri Sembilan’s Tuanku Muhriz Says After Global Ikhwan-Linked Raid
· All MA63 issues can be resolved in spirit of Malaysia MADANI - Abang Johari
· On Maulidur Rasul, PM Anwar Calls On Muslims to Continue Making Prophet Muhammad An Exemplary Role Model And Learn From Him
· PAS opens associate membership to non-Muslims, except atheists
· DPM Zahid: Putrajaya never made halal certs mandatory, non-Muslims won’t be forced to apply
Compiled by New Age Islam News Bureau
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Two Karnatakas: Away from Riot-Hit Mandya, Muslims Celebrate Ganesha Festival and Hindus Gear Up for Eid-e-Milad-un-Nabi
On Sunday, with much pomp and honour, Hindus and Muslims held a grand procession in Karwar before immersing a Ganesha idol, capping nine days of celebrations.
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Written by Kiran Parashar
September 16, 2024
Karnataka Nagamangala riotsOn Sunday, with much pomp and honour, Hindus and Muslims held a grand procession in Karwar before immersing a Ganesha idol, capping nine days of celebrations.
As Nagamangala in Karnataka’s Mandya district witnessed communal violence during the Ganesha festival, 455 km away from the town, in Karwar, Nazeer Ranebennur was ensuring the idol immersion procession would go as planned.
In a unique example of religious harmony, Muslims and Hindus in this town in Uttara Kannada district have been celebrating their festivals together for the past 24 years, with the former helping to organise Ganesha festivities and the latter joining Eid-e-Milad celebrations, according to locals.
Uttara Kannada is also considered communally sensitive. BJP leader Ananth Kumar Hegde, known for his vitriolic speeches, has won Lok Sabha polls from the constituency five times. And the district’s Bhatkal town was in the news in the past after several Muslim men from there were arrested in terrorism cases.
On Sunday, with much pomp and honour, Hindus and Muslims held a grand procession in Karwar before immersing a Ganesha idol, capping nine days of celebrations. And the Madina Jamiya Masjid’s Eid-e-Milad celebration committee is helmed by president Nagaraj Babuni and vice-president Vinayak Vadder. The festival falls on September 17 this year.
It all started 24 years ago, when a local merchant named Babu Sheik donated a Ganesha idol for the Sri Gajanana Samithi in Konewada area, which has a population of around 1,000 people. “All the communities here are dependent on each other and we are living in harmony. After I donated the idol, people from the Hindu community took up the responsibility to organise Eid celebrations. We have been successfully doing it for the last 24 years,” he said.
In the Sri Gajanana Samithi, Nazeer Ranebennur is the president and Nisar Sheikh the vice-president. “Every three years, the members of both committees (for the Ganesha festival and Eid celebrations) change. We issue notices to temples and mosques and people fund the celebrations. Both Hindus and Muslims work to decorate roads and venues. This time, we celebrated the Ganesha festival for nine days,” Nazeer, whose tenure as the committee president will end this year, told indianexpress.com.
When the Ganesh idol procession passed by Madina Jamia Masjid, the music systems were turned off. Muslims distributed food among the devotees as part of the celebrations.
Nagaraj, who heads the Eid-e-Milad committee, said he along with other Hindus was busy with preparations to celebrate the Prophet’s birth anniversary. “After their prayers, we will hold a food distribution ceremony for Muslims. We don’t go and collect funds from others but people from both communities donate money for the celebrations. We are planning a grand celebration next year to mark the 25th anniversary of the Ganesha and Eid celebrations,” he said.
Speaking about the communal riot in Nagamangala, Nagaraj said that such violence could not happen without instigation. “We have seen instances where Ganesha processions deliberately stop in front of mosques and play loud music. We respect all the communities’ sentiments and ensure that such loud music is not played in front of the mosque,” he said.
Source:indianexpress.com
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https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/bangalore/karnatakas-riot-hit-nagamangala-muslims-celebrate-ganesha-festival-hindus-gear-up-for-eid-e-milad-9569522/
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If Islamic Rules Established, “People of All Faiths Can Enjoy the Benefits of Islam”: Islami Andolan Bangladesh
15 Sep 2024
DHAKA, Sept 15, 2024 (BSS) – Islami Andolan Bangladesh (IAB) central publicity and Dawah affairs secretary Maulana Ahmad Abdul Qaiyum today said if the rules of Islam are established, the real beauty of Islam will be exposed to the global community.
“People of all faiths and paths can enjoy the benefits of Islam. Even an animal will regain its dignity.
For this, Islam has to be established as the superb ideology at the state level,” he said while speaking as the chief guest at a mass rally at Tejgaon truck stand this afternoon.
Maulana Ahmad Abdul Qaiyum said these things in the speech of the chief guest at the mass rally organized by Tejgaon Shilpanchal Thana unit of IAB at Tejgaon truck stand area in the city this afternoon, said a press release.
A certain quarter was vandalizing various establishments including shrines to tarnish the reputation of Islam, which is not right, he said, adding that those who were involved in such crimes should be handed over to the law enforcers.
IAB Dhaka north city organizing secretary Mufti Faridul Islam, law and human rights secretary Advocate Shawkat Ali Howladar, assistant publicity and Dawah secretary Hafez Nazmul Hasan spoke at the rally as special guest.
IAB Tejgaon Shilpanchal Thana unit President Moin Uddin Patwari presided over the rally while secretary Muhammad Moin Uddin conducted it.
Source:bssnews.net
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https://www.bssnews.net/news/209864
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Abdullah Taps Chief of Staff as Jordan’s New PM After Islamists Gain in Elections
Jafar Hassan, left, appointed Jordan's prime minister on Sunday, sits with his predecessor, then-PM Bisher Khasawneh, at Al Shati Palace, in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, March 21, 2024. (Ryan Carter/UAE Presidential Court/Handout via REUTERS)
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15 September 2024,
Jordan’s King Abdullah II on Sunday nominated his chief of staff, Jafar Hassan, to be the new prime minister, the royal palace said, charging him with forming a government following last Tuesday’s parliamentary elections.
The outgoing premier, Bisher Khasawneh, submitted his resignation to the king earlier on Sunday. He will stay on in a caretaker capacity until the formation of a new cabinet.
Under the kingdom’s constitution, the government usually resigns after legislative elections. It is the king who appoints the prime minister, not parliament, which has limited powers.
In a letter published by the palace, King Abdullah called on Hassan to “mobilize all efforts to support the steadfastness of our Palestinian brothers” in Gaza, the West Bank and “Holy Jerusalem,” amid the ongoing war between Israel and the Hamas terror group.
He also called on the premier-designate to “work with all our energy through Arab and international movements to protect the Palestinian people, and stop the attacks and blatant violations of humanitarian principles and international law.”
In Tuesday’s election, Jordan’s leading Islamist party, the Islamic Action Front, became the largest in parliament, winning 31 out of the 138 seats.
Jordan’s parliament is bicameral. In addition to the elected parliament, there is also a senate with 69 members appointed by the monarch.
The IAF is a political offshoot of the Muslim Brotherhood in Jordan, and the result gives the Islamists their largest representation since 1989.
With a low turnout of 32 percent, the party’s success came with voters frustrated about economic woes and the Israel-Hamas war.
Jordan in 1994 signed a peace treaty with Israel, becoming only the second Arab state to do so, after Egypt. But regular protests have called for the treaty’s dissolution since the war erupted last October, when thousands of Hamas-led terrorists invaded southern Israel, killing some 1,200 people and taking 251 hostages.
Nearly half of Jordan’s population is of Palestinian origin.
Harvard-educated Hassan, a widely respected technocrat, will face the challenges of mitigating the impact of the nearby war on the kingdom’s economy, hard-hit by curbs on investment and a sharp drop in tourism.
In the first quarter of 2024, the unemployment rate was 21 percent.
The outgoing prime minister had sought to drive reforms pushed by King Abdullah to help reverse a decade of sluggish growth, hovering at around 2%, that was worsened by the pandemic and conflict in neighboring Iraq and Syria.
The traditional conservative establishment had long been blamed for obstructing a modernization drive advocated by the Western-leaning monarch, fearing liberal reforms would erode their grip on power.
Politicians say a key task ahead is accelerating IMF-guided reforms and reining in more than $50 billion in public debt, in a country supported by billions of dollars of foreign aid from Western donors.
Source:timesofisrael.com
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https://www.timesofisrael.com/abdullah-taps-chief-of-staff-as-jordans-new-pm-after-islamists-gain-in-elections/
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Nightlife Now Rules in Iraq’s Former Daesh Bastion, Mosul
Iraqi forces patrol in a street in west Mosul as they advance inside the city during fighting against Islamic State group's fighters on March 8, 2017. (AFP)
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September 16, 2024
MOSUL, Iraq: If they had tried to do this a few years ago, the group of Iraqi women enjoying a night out in Mosul would probably have risked severe punishment.
The northern city was under the harsh rule of the Daesh group until the terrorists were ousted from their last major Iraqi bastion in 2017.
Seven years later, Mosul’s streets truly come alive at nightfall, and residents are rediscovering the art of having a good time.
Amira Taha and her friends have come to a restaurant with their children, to enjoy food and live music — complete with crooners — on a night out that would have been unthinkable under Daesh rule.
“There has been enormous change in Mosul,” Taha tells AFP. “We now have freedom and nights out like this have become common” because of “the very stable security situation.”
The city has new restaurants to go to, pleasure cruises on the river Tigris, and amusement parks that draw families keen to take advantage of the newfound stability.
Dressed in an electric blue suit, the 35-year-old mother says “people wanted to open up (to the world) and enjoy themselves.”
On the stage, three Iraqi singers in suits and slicked-back hair take it in turns to entertain the diners with Iraqi and Arab pop songs.
The orchestra includes an electric organist, a violinist, and a musician playing the darbouka, a goblet-shaped drum.
When the terrorists took Mosul in 2014 they imposed a reign of sheer terror.
Music was banned, as were cigarettes. Churches and museums were ransacked, and Daesh staged public stonings and beheaded perceived wrongdoers.
Even after Mosul was retaken in 2017 in a destructive and lengthy fight by Iraqi and international coalition forces, it took several years for its citizens to emerge from years of trauma.
Entire neighborhoods were devastated, and reconstruction became a lengthy process.
Mines had to be cleared before homes, infrastructure and roads could be rebuilt to allow hundreds of thousands of people to return to what is now a metropolis of 1.5 million people.
In the past, Taha says, “people would go home, shut their doors and then go to bed” because of fears over security.
But now, all around her on the restaurant’s lawns, families are seated at most of the tables.
Sometimes the men and women puff on water pipes as their children clap and dance.
Overlooking the restaurant is a brand new bridge spanning the Tigris, a proud symbol of a Mosul being reborn.
Other cities in Iraq are in a similar situation, enjoying a return to normality after decades marked by war, sectarian violence, kidnappings, political conflict and extremism.
Ahmed — who goes by only his first name — opened a restaurant called “Chef Ahmed the Swede” in June, after spending “half of my life” in Sweden and taking a gamble.
Now he serves between 300 and 400 diners every day, Ahmed tells AFP.
“I’d always dreamt of coming back and starting my own business,” says the proprietor, who is in his forties.
“People want to go out, they want to see something different,” he says.
At Ahmed’s, diners can choose from dishes inspired by Scandinavian and European cuisines, alongside old favorites such as pastas, pizzas and grilled meats.
Khalil Ibrahim runs an amusement park on the banks of the river.
“The city has seen radical changes over the past few years,” he says. “We’ve gone from destruction to reconstruction.”
Friday is the first day of the weekend, and the evening is pierced by the happy shrieks and laughter of children in dodgem cars, the Ferris wheel and other attractions.
“People used to go home early,” Ibrahim tells AFP. “But now they’re still arriving even at midnight.”
His park opened in 2011, but it was “completely destroyed” in the war.
“We started again from scratch” with the help of private funding, he says.
As Mosul was still emerging from its terrorist nightmare, another tragedy befell the city.
In 2019 around 100 people, mostly women and children, died when a ferry taking families across the river to a leisure park capsized.
But today, pleasure boats ply the Tigris by night, their passengers admiring the riverbank lights of the restaurants and their reflection in the dark waters.
In small cafes, clients play dominoes or cards as they have a smoke.
“We’re comfortable here. We can breathe. We have the river, and that’s enough for us,” says day laborer Jamal Abdel Sattar.
“Some shops stay open until three in the morning, and some never close,” he adds. “When people got their first taste of security, they began to go out again.
Source:arabnews.com
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
” https://www.arabnews.com/node/2571525/middle-east
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Nigerian President, Governors, Senators, Security Chiefs Urge Muslims To Embody Prophet Muhammad’s Virtues
Nigerian President, Tinubu
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September 16, 2024
Muslim Ummah celebrates Maulud Nabbiy
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, governors, senators, security chiefs, and other eminent Nigerians have sent warm felicitations to the Muslim Ummah on today’s celebration of Maulud Nabbiy, the birthday of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).
The President urged Nigerian Muslims to emulate the virtues of purity, selflessness, perseverance, kindness, and compassion, which Prophet Muhammad exemplified.
A statement yesterday in Abuja by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, reads: “As we mark the Maulud, we should all reflect on the life lived by Prophet Muhammad, exemplified by purity, selflessness, perseverance, kindness and compassion. We must endeavour to imbibe those virtues.”
Governors Muhammad Inuwa Yahaya (Gombe), Hyacinth Alia (Benue), Seyi Makinde (Oyo), Mohammed Umar Bago (Niger), Peter Mbah (Enugu), Caleb Mutfwang (Plateau), and Sheriff Oborevwori (Delta) urged Muslims to promote peaceful coexistence.
In a statement by the Director General (Press Affairs) Government House, Ismaila Uba Misilli, Governor Yahaya, who is also the Chairman of the Northern States’ Governors’ Forum (NSGF), urged fellow Muslims to imbibe the Prophet’s virtues of tolerance, humility, modesty, and honesty.
He said: “As we commemorate this great and epochal day, I enjoin us to continue to demonstrate in our lives what the noble Messenger of Allah bequeathed to humanity in ethos, manners, and relationships for the good of the society.
“The teachings of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) are indispensable in the quest for meaningful development and the good management of Nigeria’s diversity.”
In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Kulas Tersoo, Governor Alia solicited for continued prayers and support for the APC-led government, assuring that his administration would continue to deliver on its campaign promises.
Also, Governor Makinde said: “While felicitating my Muslim brothers and sisters, I want to charge them to use the opportunity to pray more for our state and our nation…”
In a statement yesterday in Minna by his Chief Press Secretary, Bologi Ibrahim, Governor Bago urged Muslims to offer special prayers for enduring peace and prosperity in the state and other parts of Nigeria.
Governor Mbah noted that “in times like these, especially, it behooves us as Nigerians to be our brother’s keeper and join our hands in faith to wade through the present challenges confronting us as a nation”.
In a statement in Jos by his spokesman, Dr. Gyang Bere, Governor Mutfwang called for acts of charity, kindness, tolerance and community service, which Prophet Muhammad was noted for, especially during this period to positively impact society.
House of Representatives Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, Senate Deputy President Jibrin Barau, former Senate President Ahmad Lawan, ex-Senate Chief Whip Orji Uzor Kalu, and Senator Sani Musa (APC, Niger) urged fellow Nigerians to pray for the nation’s peace and progress as well as President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to achieve the goals of his Renewed Hope Agenda.
Also, Globacom urged Muslims to celebrate the Prophet’s birthday with hope and optimism for a better nation.
“We congratulate our Muslim brethren on this unique occasion, and urge them to use the period to pray for the rapid economic recovery and peace of our beloved nation,” the company said in a statement.
Also, All Progressives Congress (APC) National Chairman, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, said: “The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was a shining example of leadership, wisdom, and kindness. His message of Islam is a beacon of hope and guidance for humanity.”
Also, in a statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Mr. Debo Ologunagba, main opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) stressed the need for Nigerians to draw strength from their faith and from each other in these difficult times.
Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun assured Nigerians of tight security to ensure a peaceful and secure environment during today’s celebration.
Source:thenationonlineng.net
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https://thenationonlineng.net/tinubu-governors-abbas-others-urge-muslims-to-embody-prophet-muhammads-virtues/
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India
Ganesh Idol Setup InTelangana Sparks Row Over 'Muslim-Like' Appearance’
Sep 16, 2024
An annual Ganpati festival organised in Telangana's Secunderabad became the centre of a controversy over allegations that the deity's idol had a 'Muslim-like' appearance. The organisers clarified that the theme of the Ganpati pandal was inspired by the Bollywood film 'Bajirao Mastani', which led to the misunderstanding.
The row erupted over the dress of the Ganesh idol by the Young Leo's Youth Association, which drew inspiration from the attire worn by actor Ranveer Singh in Bajirao Mastani. The resemblance, however, was not well-received by certain groups who found the representation inappropriate.
The outrage spread quickly online, with some accusing the organisers of hurting their religious sentiments. Another section on social media called the theme an expression of secularism.
In response, one of the organisers clarified the intent behind the theme, explaining that the final outcome did not align with their vision.
"We didn’t deliberately choose a Bajirao Mastani theme. Unfortunately, the way things unfolded led to misunderstandings. Our goal was never to hurt anyone’s feelings," a member of the organising committee explained.
Organisers also expressed disappointment over the backlash on social media, attributing the confusion to miscommunication with the artist responsible for the design.
Despite the uproar, the Young Leo's Youth Association intended to continue the festivities peacefully and urged the public to not misinterpret their intentions. "We just want to move forward with our celebration of Ganpati Bappa. The execution wasn’t what we expected, but we don’t wish to escalate the situation," the committee member said.
Source:indiatoday.in
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https://www.indiatoday.in/india/telangana/story/telangana-ganesh-idol-setup-in-secunderabad-controversy-muslim-ganpati-theme-2600256-2024-09-16
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Bihar: Police Detain Two for Carrying Tricolour with 'Crescent Moon, Star' In Place of Ashoka Chakra During Milad-un-Nabi Procession
PTI Saran/ 16.09.24
Police on Monday detained two persons for allegedly carrying India's national flag with a 'crescent moon and star' in place of the Ashoka Chakra during a procession in Bihar's Saran district, officials said.
The flag was immediately seized by the police and two persons have been detained in connection with the case, police said.
A statement issued by Saran police said, "A video went viral on social media showing a tricolour with a crescent moon and star symbol at its centre in place of the Ashoka Chakra, hoisted at a vehicle during Milad-un-Nabi procession." Police said the incident took place in Kopa bazar area on Monday, prompting them to launch an investigation for violation of the Flag Code of India.
"The flag was immediately seized…All other accused will soon be arrested," said the statement.
Police also warned people that if anyone is found sharing such video on social media, strict action would be taken against them.
Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by The Telegraph Online staff and has been published from a syndicated feed.
Source:telegraphindia.com
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https://www.telegraphindia.com/india/police-detain-two-in-bihar-for-carrying-tricolour-with-crescent-moon-star-in-place-of-ashoka-chakra/cid/2048316
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Engineer Rashid ties up with Jamaat-e-Islami for Jammu and Kashmir Assembly elections
Muzaffar Raina
16.09.24
Baramulla Lok Sabha member Sheikh Abdul Rashid’s Awami Ittehad Party (AIP) and the separatist Jamaat-e-Islami (JEI) have formed a “strategic alliance” for the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly polls.
Jamaat is a banned organisation but has been allowed by the Centre to field candidates. Both parties are facing accusations that they are the Centre’s new proxies.
The two parties said they have come together to champion the cause of the people of Jammu and Kashmir.
Rashid and top Jamaat leader Ghulam Qadir Wani, along with other leaders, attended Sunday’s meeting in which they agreed to join hands.
“Engineer” Rashid is known for espousing the right to self-determination for Kashmiris although he swears loyalty to the Indian Constitution.
Jamaat, on the other hand, is a known separatist organisation and was the driving force behind the Hizb-ul-Mujahideen.
A statement by the AIP said they had agreed to work together in the larger interest of the region’s population.
Following comprehensive deliberations, it was agreed that the AIP would support JEI-backed candidates in Kulgam and Pulwama. In constituencies where both the AIP and the JEI have fielded candidates, the alliance has agreed to a “friendly contest”, particularly in constituencies like Langate, Devsar and Zainpora.
The JEI will throw its support behind AIP candidates at other places in Kashmir, the statement said.
“Both parties underscored the importance of unity in resolving the Kashmir issue and promoting a lasting and dignified peace in the region,” the statement said.
They highlighted the rapidly evolving political landscape, both regionally and internationally, and stressed that neither the JEI nor the AIP can afford to remain passive observers.
Source:telegraphindia.com
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://www.telegraphindia.com/india/engineer-rashid-ties-up-with-jamaat-e-islami-for-jammu-and-kashmir-assembly-elections/cid/2048178
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Odisha: Seven engineering students expelled from hostel for 'cooking beef' on premises
16.09.24
Seven students of a state-run engineering college in Odisha's Berhampur district were expelled from their hostel for allegedly cooking beef, a "restricted" activity on the premises, an official said on Monday.
Parala Maharaja Engineering College authorities issued an order on Thursday, stating that the seven boarders of two hostels were expelled for being involved in "restrictive activities".
The college authorities also conveyed the decision to the parents of the students, he said.
According to the official, the expelled students cooked beef in their hostel room on Wednesday, violating the rules and the code of conduct of the institution.
"A section of college students drew the attention of the principal of the institution about the incident. The action was taken against the students after an inquiry," the official said.
Activists of Bajrang Dal and VHP have demanded strong action against the erring students.
Keeping in view of the situation, a tem of police personnel was deployed near the college campus and hostels to avoid any untoward incident.
Source:telegraphindia.com
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://www.telegraphindia.com/india/odisha-seven-engineering-students-expelled-from-hostel-for-cooking-beef-on-premises/cid/2048281
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Lodi-Era Mosque Collapses in Agra; Tourist Guides' Federation to Purusue Centre To “Conserve The Place And Try To Redevelop The Structure"
Sep 16, 2024
A 500-year-old three- domed mosque of Lodi-era in Sikandra area of Agra completely collapsed on Saturday following incessant rain for three consecutive days in district, reported. Officials said on Sunday "two of the three domes have crumbled and the third is now precariously placed". Built with Kakaiya bricks (flat, thin bricks of red burnt-clay) and lime, the mosque structure was constructed on an 8-ft-high foundation. Shakeel Chauhan, national general secretary of the Tourist Guides' Federation of India, said, "It was part of Agra's heritage. We'll pursue with Centre to at least conserve the place and try to redevelop the structure."
Source:indiatimes.com
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https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/lodi-era-mosque-collapses-in-agra/articleshow/113377038.cms
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Fresh encounter breaks out in Jammu and Kashmir’s Kathua; Poonch gunfight over
15.09.24
A fresh encounter broke out between terrorists and police on Sunday in a forest area in Kathua district of Jammu and Kashmir, while an overnight gunfight in Poonch district ended with one terrorist believed to have suffered injuries, officials said.
A police search party came under fire from terrorists at remote Nuknali Nalla in Bani area of Kathua district late this afternoon, the officials said.
They said the police party returned the fire and an exchange of fire was going on between the two sides when last reports were received.
Reinforcements have been rushed to plug escape routes and help neutralise the terrorists, the officials said.
In Poonch, the officials said the overnight encounter in Pathanateer area near Gursai top in Mendhar sub-division ended around noon.
Blood stains were seen near the scene of the gunfight, suggesting that one of the terrorists had got injured, they said, adding the area is still under cordon and a search operation is underway to hunt down the fleeing militants.
Acting on a tip-off about the presence of two to three terrorists, a joint search operation was launched by the police and Army in the area on Saturday evening.
The search party came under fire from the hiding terrorists, triggering a gunfight, the officials said, adding intermittent exchange of fire continued till this afternoon.
Source:telegraphindia.com
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https://www.telegraphindia.com/india/fresh-encounter-breaks-out-in-jammu-and-kashmirs-kathua-poonch-gunfight-over/cid/2048141
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South Asia
Former lawmakers Asaduzzaman Noor, Mahbub Ali arrested
Sep 16, 2024'
Former minister for cultural affairs Asaduzzaman Noor and former state minister for Civil Aviation and Tourism M Mahbub Ali were arrested from different locations of the city last night.
A team of Detective Branch (DB) arrested Asaduzzaman Noor at 11:00pm from Nawratan colony on Bailey Road. He was accused in a case filed with Mirpur Police Station, an official from DMP media wing said.
Noor, a prominent theatre activist, was a former lawmaker of Nilphamari -2 constituency.
Meanwhile, Mahbub Ali was arrested from Segunbagicha area.
Detectives arrested him from a house there in a case filed with Jatrabari Police Station, Rezaul Karim Mallick, additional commissioner of Detective Branch of DMP, told The Daily Star.
DB officials said they will be produced before a Dhaka court today.
Source:thedailystar.net
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National Food and Medicine Board Meeting Focuses on Safety and Quality
2024-09-16
KABUL(BNA): The National Food and Medicine Board convened on Sunday under the chairmanship of Abdul Salam Hanafi, Deputy Prime Minister for Administrative Affairs of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan.
The meeting brought together board members to address critical issues concerning food and medicine safety in the country.
Key topics discussed included food safety protocols, import controls, and the establishment of a list of approved medicines. The board emphasized the importance of preventing smuggling and the distribution of sub-quality food and medicines.
In addition, measures to increase public awareness about the dangers of using inferior products were highlighted. The board also discussed the installation of standard testing devices to ensure quality control.
Source:bakhtarnews.af
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Nearly 1,500 Afghan migrants arrested in Iran’s Sistan and Baluchestan
By Fidel Rahmati-
September 16, 2024
The deputy police commander of Sistan and Baluchestan province in Iran announced on Sunday that 1,494 Afghan migrants were arrested over the past week.
Ali Reza Deliri stated that the detained migrants had entered Iran without legal documents and were “illegally” crossing the border.
Iranian media on Sunday, quoting the police commander of Sistan and Baluchestan, reported that the province’s police force prioritizes identifying and arresting “illegal foreign nationals without legal permits.”
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) also reported on Sunday that between September 1 and September 7, 50,639 Afghans fled to Iran and Pakistan from Taliban-controlled Afghanistan. In the same period, over 71,000 people returned to Afghanistan from Iran and Pakistan.
The IOM report indicated that 57% of the returnees from Iran were forcibly deported, 37% returned voluntarily, and 23% came back due to economic reasons.
The Iranian Parliament is reviewing a plan to manage Afghan migrants, with thousands of “illegal” migrants set for expulsion. Police Chief Ahmad Reza Radan announced that nearly two million undocumented foreigners will be deported by year’s end.
Afghan refugees in Iran and Pakistan continue to face significant challenges, including forced deportations and restrictive migration policies. Many Afghans who fled the Taliban regime in search of safety are now finding themselves pushed back to their war-torn homeland, often under difficult conditions.
The lack of adequate legal protections and economic opportunities in both Iran and Pakistan exacerbates the plight of Afghan refugees. As deportations increase, the international community must address the humanitarian needs of these vulnerable populations and advocate for more sustainable solutions.
Source:khaama.com
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UN: Over 600 Afghan refugees deported from Pakistan in past week
By Fidel Rahmati
September 15, 2024
The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) has reported that in the past week, 625 Afghan refugees have returned to their country from Pakistan.
In a report on Sunday, September 15, the organisation stated that some of these refugees were forcibly deported from Pakistan and entered Afghanistan under compulsion.
This comes as the process of deporting and detaining Afghan migrants continues in both Iran and Pakistan despite international reactions.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Refugees and Repatriation stated that 100 Afghan refugee families returned from Iran and Pakistan, both voluntarily and involuntarily.
Additionally, the Afghan Consulate in Karachi announced the release of 44 Afghan citizens from Pakistani prisons and called on the country to refrain from arresting Afghan migrants.
According to UN statistics, since the start of the deportation process from Pakistan, 42,120 Afghan migrants have returned to Afghanistan.
The forced deportation of Afghan refugees from neighboring countries like Pakistan continues despite international concerns. This situation underscores the urgent need for global intervention and humanitarian support to protect the rights and safety of vulnerable populations.
Source:khaama.com
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Mideast
Palestinians to ‘jointly lead post-war Gaza’
September 15, 2024
ISTANBUL: A senior Hamas official said on Sunday that the group wants “joint Palestinian rule” in Gaza once war ends in the besieged territory.
“Clearly, we said that the next day must be Palestinian ... the day after the battle is a Palestinian day,” Osama Hamdan said during an interview in Istanbul.
He said that the Palestinian movement had ample resources to continue fighting Israel despite losses sustained over more than 11 months of war in Gaza.
“The resistance has a high ability to continue,” Hamdan said.
“There were martyrs and sacrifices ... but in return, there was an accumulation of experiences and the recruitment of new generations into the resistance.”
His comments came less than a week after Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant told journalists that Hamas, whose Oct. 7 attack triggered the war, “no longer exists” as a military formation in Gaza.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu launched retaliatory military operations to destroy Hamas after the group’s surprise attack on southern Israel.
The Israeli military campaign has killed at least 41,206 people in Gaza, according to the territory’s Health Ministry, which does not provide breakdowns of civilian and militant deaths.
Netanyahu is facing mounting domestic pressure to seal a deal in which hostages would be released in exchange for Palestinian prisoners.
Israel’s announcement this month that the bodies of six hostages had been recovered from a tunnel in Gaza after they were “executed’ by Hamas spurred an outpouring of grief and anger, leading to a brief general strike and large-scale demonstrations that continued in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem on Saturday night.
But months of negotiations aimed at securing a truce have apparently stalled.
In the interview on Sunday, Hamdan said the US, Israel’s most crucial military backer, was not doing enough to force concessions from Netanyahu that would end the bloodshed.
“The American administration does not exert sufficient or appropriate pressure on the Israeli side,” Hamdan said.
“Rather, it is trying to justify the Israeli side’s evasion of any commitment.”
During two press conferences after officials announced the deaths of the six hostages earlier this month, Netanyahu said it was Hamas who refused to compromise and vowed “not to give in to pressure” on remaining sticking points.
He also said Israel’s military campaign had killed “no less than 17,000” Hamas militants.
Source:arabnews.com
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Yemen joins Islamic nations in celebrating birth of master of humanity, upon whom and his family be best prayers and peace
15 Sep 2024
Yemen joins several Islamic nations in celebrating the anniversary of the birth of the Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, on Sunday. This revered occasion falls on the 12th of Rabi' al-Awwal each year. Numerous Islamic countries and Muslim communities organize a variety of events and activities to honor this day.
In a festive scene unparalleled in history, Yemenis (men and women, young and old) today went to public squares and squares in the capital, Sana'a, and the governorates to celebrate the anniversary of the birth of the Holy Prophet, the Seal of the Prophets and the Master of the Messengers, in more than 60 squares and squares, dedicated to hosting celebrations of this great occasion, including 28 squares for women.
Yemenis flocked to various squares from everywhere in the greatest celebrations the world witnesses, as the title of a great Yemeni celebration that embodies the relationship of the descendants of the Ansar with their prophet and leader. Directing the strongest message to the world that the love of the Prophet and Messenger Muhammad, may God's prayers and peace be upon him, is rooted in their hearts from the far end of the country to the extreme, as they preempted their great celebration today by launching fireworks last night in the capital and the rest of the governorates to rejoice on this great occasion.
Every year, Muslims celebrate this day, in some Islamic countries, not as a festival or worship, but as a joy at the birth of their Prophet, the Messenger of God, Muhammad bin Abdullah, the Seal of the Prophets, and Messengers.
Popular celebrations in most Islamic countries began from the beginning of the month of Rabi' al-Awwal and will continue to its end, by establishing councils in which poems praising the Prophet are sung, lessons are from his biography, and his honors are mentioned and food and sweets are served, such as the sweetness of the birth.
Muslims who celebrate the Prophet's birthday attribute the beginning of the interest in the birthday of the Prophet Muhammad himself when he fasted on Monday and said, "This is the day I was born."
The rituals of celebrating this occasion vary from one country to another, and from place to place, according to the customs and traditions of the people of each Islamic country, but in the end, the purpose of Muslims remains to celebrate and celebrate the birth of the master of creation, upon whom be the best prayer and the best peace.
In Palestine. Palestinian media published on Sunday video footage showing part of the celebration of the people of the Gaza Strip anniversary of the birth of the Prophet Muhammad, where the cities of the Strip witnessed the atmosphere of the celebration of the anniversary of the birth of the Prophet General, and these celebrations come despite what Gaza is going through in light of a war of extermination waged by the Zionist enemy entity against the people of the Gaza Strip.
Palestinians and Arabs consider that the celebration of the Prophet's birthday is a message of defiance to the Zionist enemy entity that there are no restrictions that prevent us from celebrating the master of humanity, Muhammad, may God bless him and his family and grant him peace.
In Egypt, celebrations of the Prophet's birthday spread across various Egyptian cities, through festive processions and a large popular presence, expressing their love for the Prophet Muhammad, may God bless him and his family and grant him peace. Considering this pure love as the core and pillar of faith, and it is not complete without it, and celebrating his honorable birth is only a simplified expression of the joy in their souls for his immaculate memory.
Egypt is one of the countries that are particularly proud of this occasion, where imams deliver sermons and sermons on the Prophet's biography, and the street is crowded with vendors selling "Halawa al-Mawlid", a type of sweets made specifically for this occasion, pulsating streets with colors and lights, and the bride of birth is sold on this occasion for girls, and the horse for boys.
In the remembrance of the beloved Mustafa, the Egyptians rally around the table of remembrance of the recitation of the Qur'an and singing that warms and entertains hearts, and by addressing his honorable and pure biography, the fence of truth is confirmed and the conscience of his nobility, may God bless him and grant him peace.
There are many manifestations of celebrating the birth of the Prophet, may God bless him and grant him peace, and one of its honors is the abundance of prayers for the faithful Prophet, and this confirms the fruits of celebrating the Master of the Messengers through his fragrant memory, which is an occasion that urges us all to sail in prayer for the Holy Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him.
The Islamic world witnesses that Egyptians show a unique joy about their celebration of the Prophet and his birth, so the celebration of the Prophet's birthday has become a clear signal to express his love for the Prophet and his family and peace and one of the reasons for its consolidation in the hearts and consolidation in the hearts of Egyptians.
The cities and governorates of Egypt witnessed religious events, nights, praises, and a demand to buy Mawlid sweets from sweets stores, and the distribution of drinks and foods, according to local press reports. The city of Aswan also witnessed, on Saturday evening, the launch of the "Zaffa" course celebrating the Prophet's birthday, which is organized by the Mirghani order on the sidelines of the Prophet's Birthday celebrations.
The participants in the zaffa carried green flags a miniature model of the Prophet's Mosque, and banners written with the name of the way celebrating the birth of the Prophet and participated in the session several sons of Sufi orders and the people of Aswan year, and the sons of the Mirghani way chanted some poems and songs in love with the Messenger of God, amid interaction and response from the participants.
In Algeria, mosques are prepared with a rich program of worship, where religious sermons are devoted to talking about the Prophet Muhammad, may God bless him and grant him peace, so that he is known for his fragrant biography and noble morals that characterized him from birth until his death.
Celebrations in Algeria are characterized by a focus on the spiritual aspect, where religious gatherings are held in mosques, religious gatherings review the life of the Prophet, and poetry and literary performances celebrating the Prophet's biography are presented.
Algerians, who flock in large numbers to mosques, worship by holding sessions of remembrance of God, prayers for the Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him, and recitation of the Qur'an, and some mosques hold religious competitions in Quran recitation and written questions, after which the winners are honored with appreciation prizes.
Family and friends gather in one house to eat what has been prepared for this occasion, as women prepare varieties and types of popular dishes and traditional sweets, including "couscous", "shakshouka", "rashta" and "tamina".
In the Iraqi capital, Baghdad, the media documented part of the activities of the celebration of the Prophet's birthday and published pictures from the city of Adhamiya, north of the capital, Baghdad, which is witnessing celebrations of the birth of the Prophet Muhammad, where the pictures show part of the celebration of the anniversary of the birth of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) amid a large public presence.
And in Tunisia... Hundreds of people participated in the city of Kairouan in downtown Tunis, on Saturday evening, in the celebration of the commemoration of the birth of the Prophet at the historic mosque "Uqba bin Nafi".
Every year, the vicinity of the Uqba Ibn Nafi Mosque, one of Africa's oldest mosques, witnesses events held on the occasion of the Prophet's birthday. This year, hundreds of people from inside and outside Tunisia participated in the celebration of the Prophet's birthday, which was held in the mosque of "Uqba Ibn Nafi" (founded in the year 50 AH, 800 AD) and its surroundings.
The celebrations in Tunisia of the Prophet's birthday include many activities, including praise and remembrance sessions, the visit of people to each other, and the exchange of congratulations and blessings, many distinctive dishes are prepared for that occasion, and many people gather to celebrate in the province of Kairouan in the courtyards of the Great Mosque of Uqba bin Nafi or the Zaytouna Mosque.
In Libya, Libyans celebrate the Prophet's birthday in a distinctive way that is predominantly spiritual, as colored flags, palm fronds, and tambourines are raised, and on this occasion, they eat a dish known as (porridge), family gatherings begin in public squares and mosques, and chants are loud in the name of the Prophet Muhammad, and people wear beautiful costumes, and Libyans call this day (Al-Miloud).
And in Sudan... The Sudanese began the manifestations of the celebration of the Prophet's birthday with the beginning of the month of Rabi' al-Awwal, where tents are erected in public squares, which last for ten days, and many sweets vendors spread and celebrate with people, the Sudanese call (zaffa) all aspects of the celebration, and it begins from the first day in the month of Rabi' al-Awwal.
Jordanians share their joy in holding celebrations, which include many events and activities such as religious lessons and lectures that emphasize the importance of this occasion in the lives of Muslims, and review the biography of the Holy Prophet showing his great qualities and qualities, and people exchange visits and offer sweets similar to those offered on the days of Ramadan.
In the Sultanate of Oman, the Omani people celebrate the birth of the Prophet Muhammad on the 12th of Rabi' al-Awwal, as this day is an important religious and social occasion in the Sultanate, where the anniversary of the birth of the Prophet is honored through a variety of events and activities that reflect the spirit of love and appreciation for the Holy Prophet.
The Omani government announced the allocation of Sunday, as an official holiday for all public and private sectors. This decision includes all government institutions and private companies, in addition to units of administrative bodies and legal symbols in the State.
The Prophet's Birthday events in the Sultanate of Oman are diverse and inclusive, with a range of activities that reflect Omani heritage and culture. Among the most prominent of these events are prayer, science circles, and praise: Many Omanis go to mosques to perform Eid prayers and attend science circles dealing with the biography of the Prophet Muhammad, may God bless him and grant him peace.
Homes and streets are decorated with flags and slogans for the Prophet's birthday to promote the spirit of celebration and joy among citizens, and alms and gifts are distributed to the poor and needy, whether in the form of money or foodstuffs, and cultural seminars, poetry evenings, and artistic performances are organized that highlight the life of the Holy Prophet and his impact on Islam.
In Lebanon, the celebration of the Prophet's birthday witnesses various festive manifestations that include gatherings in mosques, recitations of praise, and religious texts that highlight the Prophet's virtue, and special sweets such as the Prophet's Birthday are an essential part of the celebrations, as they are prepared and distributed to people in different neighborhoods and regions.
In Turkey, the mosques of Istanbul, especially historical ones, led by Hagia Sophia the Great, Sultanahmet, Fatih, Sulaymaniyah, Eyup Sultan, and Çamlıca the Great, commemorated the birth of the Prophet amid a great turnout and embraced religious programs on the occasion of the Prophet's birthday, and the mosques were filled with worshipers who performed prayers and prayed to God for Turkey and the Islamic world, and a light banner bearing the phrase "There is no god to God" was hung between the minarets of the Hagia Sophia Mosque on the occasion of the Prophet's birthday.
Indonesia, the most populous Muslim country, is witnessing widespread celebrations of the Prophet's birthday, holding celebrations that include religious musical performances known as "Qaisida" and holding parties in mosques where snacks are served and his biography is read.
In Pakistan, the streets are covered with lights and decorations, large marches are organized that include the reading of the Prophet's biography and religious songs, religious events abound in mosques, and the occasion is celebrated by distributing food and sweets.
Malaysia celebrates the Prophet's birthday by holding religious lectures, competitions, and distributing prizes related to the Prophet's biography, concerts are organized in mosques and cultural centers, religious heritage is reviewed and scholars talk about the biography of the Prophet, may God bless him and grant him peace.
Source:saba.ye
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Iraqi Islamic Resistance says attacked Haifa with drone
15 Sep 2024
In a statement on Sunday, the Islamic Resistance in Iraq said it had carried out a new retaliatory operation against an Israeli target in the occupied Palestinian territories.
The group said that it conducted the attack with a drone on Haifa.
ÙŽThe statement that was published on the "alahednews" reads that "The operations to crush the enemy's fortifications will continue at a growing pace," said.
Source:mehrnews.com
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Army says ‘high probability’ Israel air strike caused deaths of 3 hostages in November
September 15, 2024
JERUSALEM: The Israeli military on Sunday said there was a “high probability” an Israeli air strike was responsible for the deaths of three hostages who were killed in Gaza in November.
The bodies of the three hostages, Corporal Nik Beizer, Sergeant Ron Sherman and French-Israeli Elia Toledano, were brought back to Israel in December.
“The findings of the investigation suggest a high probability that the three were killed as a result of a byproduct of an IDF air strike, during the elimination of the Hamas Northern Brigade commander, Ahmed Ghandour, on November 10th, 2023,” the military said in a statement, referring to the three captives.
“This assessment is based on the location of where their bodies were found in relation to the strike’s impact, performance analysis of the strike, intelligence findings, the results of the pathological reports, and the conclusions of the Forensic Medicine Institute.”
“This is a high-probability assessment based on all of the available information, but it is not possible to definitively determine the circumstances of their deaths,” the military said.
The bodies of the three hostages were recovered on December 14.
The military said its investigation revealed that the three captives had been held in a tunnel complex from which Ghandour operated.
“At the time of the strike, the IDF did not have information about the presence of hostages in the targeted compound,” the military said.
“Furthermore, there was information suggesting that they were located elsewhere, and thus the area was not designated as one with suspected presence of hostages.”
The war in Gaza erupted after Hamas attacked Israel on October 7, which resulted in the deaths of 1,205 people, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally based on official Israeli figures.
Militants also seized 251 hostages, 97 of whom are still held captive in Gaza, including 33 the Israeli military says are dead.
Israel’s retaliatory military offensive in Gaza has so far killed at least 41,206 people, according to the health ministry in the Hamas-run territory, which does not provide details of civilian and militant deaths.
While 105 hostages were released during a one-week truce in November in exchange for 240 Palestinian prisoners held in Israeli jails, three captives were killed by Israeli fire.
Yotam Haim, Samer El-Talalqa and Alon Shamriz were mistakenly killed by Israeli troops in December in north Gaza, according to the military.
Source:arabnews.com
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Egypt welcomes UN’s decision to establish position of special envoy on water
GOBRAN MOHAMMED
September 15, 2024
CAIRO: Egypt has welcomed the decision of the UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres to establish the position of a UN special envoy on water, and the announcement that Indonesian Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi will assume the high-ranking post in November.
In a statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Cairo said Egypt, in collaboration with Germany, had led an extensive initiative in preparation for the 2023 UN Water Conference.
This initiative, which successfully garnered the support of 151 countries, aimed at establishing the position of UN special envoy on water to support member states, particularly water-scarce countries, to help address the challenge of achieving the sixth Sustainable Development Goal regarding everyone having access to water.
Guterres’ decision to create the position is a culmination of Egypt’s efforts to enhance multilateral action in response to emerging challenges.
Egypt looked forward to enhancing cooperation with the new UN special envoy to achieve the goals of the 2030 Agenda in addressing water scarcity, the statement added.
The news comes in light of the significant efforts made by Egypt for the rational management of water resources and the promotion of transboundary cooperation, in accordance with international law.
Meanwhile, Egypt’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Badr Abdelatty received a phone call on Friday from the UN secretary-general. The call addressed the latest developments in the Gaza Strip and the dangerous escalation of conflict in the West Bank.
Tamim Khallaf, the spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said the call emphasized the importance of an immediate ceasefire, the delivery of humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip, and facilitating the work of the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees.
Abdelatty reiterated Egypt’s position, which focuses on halting aggression and promptly delivering humanitarian aid to the region. He said peace, security, and stability in the area could not be achieved without adhering to agreed-upon references and establishing a Palestinian state based on June 4, 1967, lines, with East Jerusalem as its capital.
The UN secretary-general spoke of his appreciation of the roles of Egypt, Qatar, and the US in mediation efforts aimed at reaching a ceasefire agreement and exchanging hostages and detainees. He expressed hope in achieving agreement as soon as possible.
Source:arabnews.com
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Arab World
New diploma in data science, AI to empower future tech leaders
September 15, 2024
JEDDAH: Tuwaiq Academy in Riyadh, in partnership with Meta, has launched the first diploma in data science and artificial intelligence.
The program aims to equip students with the skills needed to excel in these growing fields, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Sunday.
Accredited by the Technical and Vocational Training Corp., the diploma will start in December 2024 and run for nine months. It offers practical skills in a competitive learning environment tailored to market needs.
Participants will study machine learning, data analysis with Python and Tableau, AI system development, and big data management. These skills will help students create innovative tech solutions for various societal needs.
Jouelle Awad, head of public policy programs for Africa, the Middle East and Turkiye at Meta, praised the partnership with the academy. The collaboration aims to launch educational programs with professional certifications to enhance the skills of Saudi youth and foster innovation and creativity across sectors.
The academy has recently launched more than 160 camps and programs in various technical fields, underscoring its commitment to diverse educational opportunities.
Tuwaiq Academy CEO Abdulaziz Al-Hamadi said that the data science and AI diploma reinforces the academy’s leading role in providing educational pathways through boot camps and professional programs.
In August, the academy launched a machine-learning bootcamp in partnership with Stanford University, starting on Sept. 30 and running for two and a half months.
Held at the academy’s Riyadh campus, the bootcamp aims to enhance participants’ technical skills in machine-learning fundamentals.
The program includes stages focusing on large-scale graph analysis, graph data structures and applications, graph neural networks, and tools for graph-based machine learning.
Participants will solve real-world problems and top performers will have job placement opportunities.
Established in 2019, Tuwaiq Academy works with more than 1,000 in-person trainees daily and offers professional certifications in collaboration with global organizations such as Apple, Meta, Amazon, Alibaba, Dell, CompTIA, OffSec, IBM and Microsoft.
The academy is dedicated to developing skilled professionals, university students and graduates, with a focus on fostering technical creativity, even at high-school level.
Source:arabnews.com
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Saudi, US military officials discuss ways to strengthen partnership
September 16, 2024
RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Commander of the Joint Forces, Lieutenant General Fahad bin Hamad Al Salman, received a delegation from the US armed forces in Riyadh on Sunday and discussed ways to strengthen the two countries' military partnership, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Monday.
General Fahad met with the delegation led by Vice Admiral Charles Bradford Cooper II, deputy chief of the US Central Command (CENTCOM), at the Joint Forces Command headquarters in Riyadh, the report said.
The reception was also attended by senior Saudi officers led by Major General Abdullah Al-Ghamdi, deputy commander of the Joint Forces.
CENTCOM, one of the 11 unified commands of the US Department of Defense, covers the Middle East, Northeast Africa, Central Asia and parts of South Asia.
Source:arabnews.com
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Three Zakat, Tax, and Customs Authority employees arrested after receiving bribes: Nazaha
September 15, 2024
RIYADH: Three employees of the Zakat, Tax, and Customs Authority at the King Abdullah Port in Rabigh have been arrested after receiving bribes from six residents.
The bribes amounted to SR2,232,000 ($594,814) and were received in instalments in exchange for facilitating the smuggling and export of 372 shipping containers of restricted petroleum products (diesel), and using the names of commercial entities in the smuggling process.
Legal procedures against the three employees and six residents are underway in accordance with the laws and regulations, the Oversight and Anti-Corruption Authority (Nazaha) said on Sunday.
The names of the employees, who are citizens, are:
1. Rashid Mohammed Al-Shabrami
2. Mohammed Ahmed Al-Jizani
3. Saleh Hamoud Al-Harbi
The names of the residents are:
1. Osama Mohsen Al-Olaqi (Yemeni resident)
2. Abdulaziz Omar Al-Qaeti (Yemeni resident)
3. Hussein Omar Al-Qaeti (Yemeni resident)
4. Fouad Salahuddin Bair (Pakistani resident- investor)
5. Mohammad Ghanim Al-Manla (Syrian resident)
6. Saeed Awad Bazbaidi (Yemeni resident)
Source:arabnews.com
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Saudi fund backs $41m revamp of Dominica’s capital
September 15, 2024
RIYADH: The Saudi Fund for Development signed a loan agreement on Sunday with Dominica to finance the $41 million Infrastructure Rehabilitation Project in Roseau, the capital city.
The project is expected to drive socio-economic growth and improve the quality of life, according to the Saudi Press Agency.
The agreement was signed by the fund’s CEO Sultan Al-Marshad and Dominican Minister of Finance Irving McIntyre.
Dominica’s Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit delivered a keynote address at the ceremony, expressing gratitude for Saudi Arabia’s support and acknowledging the fund’s role in the project.
The project involves rehabilitating seven main streets, improving road connectivity, and enhancing safety and access to basic services.
It will also contribute to commercial and residential development and create jobs, SPA reported.
The project aligns with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals and demonstrates the fund’s commitment to supporting development in Dominica and other Small Island Developing States.
Al-Marshad said: “We wish Dominica continued growth and prosperity. May this project drive positive change and sustainable development.”
McIntyre said: “The project is a critical step in addressing the challenges facing Roseau. It is expected to increase social and economic productivity.2
The Saudi fund, celebrating its 50th anniversary, has financed over 800 projects in 100 countries. Since 2023, it has extended development loans to 10 new Small Island Developing States.
Source:arabnews.com
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Africa
Eid Milad-u -Nabi: Tinubu, Governors, Others Felicitate With Muslims
by Jonathan Nda-Isaiah, Khalid Idris Doya and Achor Abimaje
16 September 2024
President Bola Tinubu and various governors have sent messages of goodwill and congratulations to Nigerian Muslims on this year’s commemoration of Maulud Nabiy, the birthday of Prophet Muhammad.
In a statement issued by his spokesman, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu urged Muslims to use this period for deep reflection and remembrance of the Holy Prophet’s exemplary conduct and noble teachings.
Niger State Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago has called on the Muslim Ummah to reflect deeply daily on the life and times of Prophet Muhammad, highlighting virtues such as peace, patience, and tolerance as they celebrate Maulud.
In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Bologi Ibrahim, the governor urged adherents of Islam to continue to be peaceful, noting that Prophet Muhammad lived a life worthy of emulation by all.
Governor Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed of Bauchi has expressed concern about the current economic hardships that have made life extremely difficult for the generality of Nigerians.
“As a responsive and responsible government, we are very much worried about the current economic hardship that has made life for the generality of the people of Nigeria extremely difficult,” he said.
In a goodwill message on the occasion of this year’s Eid-el-Maulud celebration, issued by his media aide Comrade Mukhtar Gidado on Sunday, the governor appealed to the Muslim faithful to pray for Allah’s (SWT) intervention to end the calamity.
Plateau State Governor Barr. Caleb Mutfwang has extended his heartfelt congratulations to the Muslim Ummah in the state and beyond on Eid-ul-Maulud, which marks the birth of Prophet Muhammad.
In a press statement issued last night by the Director of Press and Public Affairs, Gyang Bere, the governor emphasised the profound significance of Eid-ul-Maulud for the Muslim community.
According to him, Prophet Muhammad is known for his crucial role in spreading the message of Islam and fostering peace and unity among followers.
In addition to the Federal Government’s declaration of Monday, 16th September, as a public holiday, the Jigawa State Government has also declared Tuesday, 17th September 2024, as a holiday to mark the celebration of Eid-el-Maulud, the birth of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (S.A.W).
This was stated in a release signed by the State Head of the Civil Service, Muhammad K. Dagaceri, and made available to newsmen through his public relations officer, Comrade Samaila Ibrahim Dutse.
Source:leadership.ng
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https://leadership.ng/maulud-tinubu-governors-others-felicitate-with-muslims/
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Eid-el-Maulud: Mbah Congratulates Muslims, Preaches Love, Peaceful Co-Existence
By PATIENCE OGBODO-IWUAGWU
Sep 15, 2024
ENUGU – Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah, has congratulated the Muslim Ummah on the occasion of Eid-el-Maulud, calling for peaceful co-existence, unity, and love in order to move the nation forward.
Mbah, in his goodwill message to the Muslim faithful on Sunday, said it was only by doing so that Nigeria would realise her full potential and greatness.
He said, “I rejoice with our Muslim compatriots on this occasion of Eid-el-Maulud. Maulud-al-Nabi, being an occasion for the commemoration of the birth of Prophet Mohammed, presents an opportunity to reflect on the life and times of the Holy Prophet, especially the virtues of empathy, love, peaceful-coexistence, selfless service to humanity, among others, which he preached and was also noted for.
“Again, in times like these especially, it behooves us as Nigerians to be our brother’s keeper and join our hands in faith to wade through the present challenges confronting us as a nation. Indeed, it is only by doing so that we can move our country forward on the path of peace and prosperity to realise its full greatness”, he said.
The governor wished the Muslim faithful and Nigerians a merry and hitch-free Eid-El-Maulud.
Source:independent.ng
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://independent.ng/eid-el-maulud-mbah-congratulates-muslims-preaches-love-peaceful-co-existence/
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Eid-Maulud: Ganduje felicitates with Muslims
September 15, 2024
by Jide Orintunsin, Abuja
The national chairman of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje has admonished all Nigerians to work together to build a society that is just, equitable, and peaceful.
The charge was contained in a statement he signed in Abuja on Sunday night to mark this year’s celebrations of the birth of Prophet Mohammed (PBUH).
Ganduje noted that as the world celebrates the birthday of the Prophet, he urged Muslim faithful on the country to recommit themselves to the principles of justice, equality, and fairness that the Prophet espoused.
The statement reads: “As the Muslim Ummah celebrates the birthday of the Prophet of Islam, Muhammad Peace Be Upon Him), I, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), extend my warmest congratulations to all Muslims in Nigeria and beyond.
“This auspicious occasion is a significant milestone in the Islamic calendar, and it serves as a reminder of the Prophet’s teachings of peace, love, and compassion. As we celebrate his birthday, we must reflect on his exemplary life and strive to emulate his noble qualities.
“The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was a shining example of leadership, wisdom, and kindness. His message of Islam is a beacon of hope and guidance for humanity. As we commemorate his birthday, we must recommit ourselves to the principles of justice, equality, and fairness that he espoused.
“As the National Chairman of the APC, I urge all party members to use this occasion to reflect on their faith and renew their commitment to the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Let us work together to build a society that is just, equitable, and peaceful.”
Congratulating the Muslim Ummah, Ganduje urged them to continue to pray for peace, stability, and prosperity of the country.
“In the spirit of this season, I urge all Nigerians to reaffirm their trust and backing for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, as he spearheads a comprehensive economic revitalization agenda, underpinned by an unyielding passion for transformative change, aimed at elevating the standard of living for all Nigerians.”
Source:thenationonlineng.net
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https://thenationonlineng.net/eid-maulud-ganduje-felicitates-with-muslims/
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Senator Alli advocates national cohesion for nations progress, felicitates muslims
Remi Feyisipo
September 15, 2024
Senator Sharafadeen Alli (APC-Oyo South) has appealed for unity among Nigerians, stressing that division along religious, ethnic, or political lines could only hamper the nation’s progress.
While felicitating with Muslims across the nation on the occasion of this year’s Eid-el-Maulud, commemorating the birth of the Holy Prophet Muhammad said “Let’s actively seek ways to promote peace and national cohesion, in line with the Prophet’s example of fostering unity and mutual understanding. Our country, Nigeria, will benefit immensely if we all strive to live by these values”.
In a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Media, Akeem Abas and made available to newsmen on Sunday in Ibadan, Senator Alli urged Muslims to use the occasion to reflect on the teachings of the Prophet and their relevance in today’s world.
He emphasised the virtues of peace, love, and tolerance as exemplified by Prophet Muhammad (SAW) throughout his lifetime.
The lawmaker called on Muslims to imbibe these virtues, especially in the current global environment where peace and harmony are increasingly challenged.
“The Prophet’s life remained a timeless model for humanity, one that transcends religious and cultural boundaries.
“As we celebrate Eid-el-Maulud, it is important that we recommit ourselves to the ideals of justice, compassion, and mutual respect, which are the hallmarks of the Prophet’s teachings.
He congratulated the Muslim community in Oyo South and Nigeria at large for the successful observance of the Maulud celebration. The lawmaker prayed for continued blessings, guidance, and protection for all citizens, urging them to remain steadfast in their faith.
Senator Alli reiterated his commitment to the welfare of constituents and dedication to the socio-economic development of Oyo South as well as Nigeria at large.
He called for cooperation and prayers for the leaders of the country to lead with wisdom and justice.
Source:businessday.ng
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://businessday.ng/news/article/senator-alli-advocates-national-cohesion-for-nations-progress-felicitates-muslims/
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Australia
Southport imam recounts being trapped amid violent mosque attack during U.K.’s far-right protests: “Their eyes filled with hatred and hostility”
September 15, 2024
SOUTHPORT, United Kingdom — Two decades ago, I began serving as the imam [Muslim religious leader who leads prayers and offers spiritual guidance] of the Southport Mosque in the U.K. On July 30, 2024, I headed to the mosque for regular prayers, just five minutes away from where a stabbing incident claimed the lives of three young girls the day before. As I arrived, a large crowd stood in front of the mosque, glaring at me with palpable hatred and hostility.
Inside the mosque, while discussing the harrowing incident with other worshippers, a commotion outside soon interrupted our conversation. Looking through the window, I saw the crowd swell, becoming more agitated every minute. Within half an hour, their numbers surged to over a thousand. These strangers to the city began chanting threatening slogans, which echoed ominously around us.
Muslim community faces false accusations and threats following tragic stabbing incident
On July 29, 2024, the night of the stabbing incident, we felt deep sadness. The agonizing news shook the entire community, and everyone discussed it. The loss of the young girls profoundly impacted each of us. We wished to defend them and were ready to sacrifice our lives if necessary. While we were still reeling from the distressing incident, lies began targeting the Muslim community in Southport.
Amid our intense pain, we received numerous warnings and messages about a potential protest in front of the mosque. Rumors quickly spread that we supposedly incited the attacker, a Muslim immigrant who regularly attended our mosque, to commit this act. These cruel and insulting rumors gained traction on social media. It felt unbelievable how swiftly the situation deteriorated. People rushed to judgment, turning the mosque into a target overnight without any real evidence. When the situation became a powder keg ready to explode, it marked the most challenging time of my life.
The next morning, I called the police. They assured me they were aware of the threats and fully prepared to handle them. To protect us, they sent three Asian guards, which put them at risk since most of the mosque’s visitors are Asian. That day, I sent text messages advising those who come to the mosque each evening to pray and read the Quran to pray at home for their safety.
Worshipers trapped as rioters attack mosque
When I arrived at the mosque in the evening, a large crowd gathered outside, their eyes filled with hatred and hostility. Inside, only eight worshipers remained. The tension in the air chilled my spine as I realized the situation was more dire than I anticipated. Unease thickened the atmosphere, and I could not shake the feeling that something was about to unfold.
Despite my attempts to focus on my prayers, my thoughts drifted back to the angry crowd waiting outside. After the prayers, I spoke with the few worshipers who gathered. We shared our worries and debated our next steps. Some proposed closing the mosque temporarily, while others argued against yielding to intimidation. As we discussed it, a commotion erupted outside. I looked out the window and saw the crowd growing agitated.
Chaos erupted as crowed shouted and waved signs, while the police guards, clearly overwhelmed, called for backup on their radios. Soon, their hatred intensified. The rioters threw stones and Molotov cocktails at the mosque, destroying its fence. The violence escalated as they clashed with police and set police cars ablaze. Alarmingly, I feared they would soon set the mosque on fire, trapping me and the eight worshippers inside.
Realizing the urgency, I pulled out my phone and called community leaders and local officials to defuse the situation. As the night stretched ahead, I wondered how things escalated so quickly. That night at the mosque, we faced the threat of death and fire, entrusting the situation to God as we exhausted our options.
The rioters filled me with dread with their anger and malice, fueled by false news. The hours proved harrowing, and we stayed inside the mosque under police protection until midnight. In my more than 50 years in Britain, I never encountered such challenging moments as when the rioters attacked the mosque.
Local neighbors unite to restore mosque and reject hate after attack
I understand why the police chose not to name the 17-year-old involved in the stabbing incident due to his age. However, they should have clarified that he is not Muslim. Even though it should not matter, one person’s actions should not condemn an entire community.
Hearing people accuse immigrants and cast doubts on our loyalty is disturbing, especially in a diverse country like Britain. Even Prince Philip, King Charles’ father, was born in Greece. We work and pay our taxes. Those funds may even support some of the individuals who attacked the mosque. Without immigrants, this country would be paralyzed.
Before the attack on the mosque, our community enjoyed a harmonious and loving relationship with it, free from any harassment. The morning after the attack, our local neighbors came together at 6:00 a.m. to help clean the mosque, remove the traces of the attack, and rebuild what was destroyed. They completed the restoration before I arrived. Undoubtedly, I could not be more grateful for their support. We also enjoy strong relationships with the local church and synagogue, where we address each other by first names and visit for tea and coffee.
The city continues to grieve over the recent stabbing incident. Once things settle, we plan to invite the mosque neighbors, police, and fire brigade to a barbecue to express our gratitude for their support. Living in Britain for over 50 years, I spent years in London before relocating to Southport. I have served as the city’s mosque imam ever since. Since then, I witnessed this community actively demonstrate decency, proving that differences in belief do not hinder love, tolerance, or communication.
Source:orato.world
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://orato.world/2024/09/15/southport-imam-recounts-being-trapped-amid-violent-mosque-attack-during-u-k-s-far-right-protests-their-eyes-filled-with-hatred-and-hostility/
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Urgent Media Release On Unfolding Situation At Muslim Schools In Auckland
16 September 2024
FIANZ, the national Muslim umbrella organisation, is closely monitoring the unfolding situation as part of our National Safety and Security Programme. We are particularly concerned about the welfare, well-being, and the trauma experienced by the students at the schools, their parents, teachers, staff, and the wider community. We have been in contact with the New Zealand Police and other relevant authorities. We thank the NZ Police for their urgent and diligent response to this threat. However, we wish to highlight three relevant points in this context:
1) Last week, FIANZ raised concerns precisely like this situation and noted that, due to fiscal retrenchment, the government has defunded, deprioritized and dismantled many of the key national security framework components of the Royal Commission. This includes the withdrawal of already allocated funding for Recommendation 12, which had completed its business case study and was funded. The Lead Coordination Minister’s decision to withdraw these funds is a retrograde step, taken without consideration for the safety and security of New Zealanders and without any consultation with vulnerable communities. Other factors include ending the Safer Communities Fund and reducing key expert staff from the Department of Internal Affairs, who monitor online threats, the Lead Coordination Minister’s has demonstrated very short-term thinking regarding crucial national safety and security issues. We note that there has been no consultation on these changes, nor have any regulatory impact statements been provided.
2) The vitriol surrounding the reintroduction of military-style semi-automatic (MSSA) firearms and the safety provisions in the Arms Act, implemented after the March 15 terror attack, seems to have emboldened would-be terrorists to discuss shooting Muslim children at schools in New Zealand. This should serve as a wake-up call for the Rt Hon Prime Minister that his Associate Minister for Justice is jeopardising the safety of all New Zealanders, disregarding national security. While the Prime Minister has claimed that she is an expert on firearms safety, the Associate Minister's actions - such as allowing gun clubs to omit reporting on the sales of arms or ammunition in their annual reports through an Order in Council - demonstrate a lack of transparency and accountability to her Cabinet colleagues and the New Zealand public. It is important to note that the regulatory impact report by the Ministry of Justice highlights a lack of consultation and points to potential safety ramifications. The Rt Hon Prime Minister should urgently review and rescind some of the Associate Minister’s performance to-date.
3) In a globally connected world, the New Zealand Security Intelligence Service (NZSIS) has accurately highlighted that online radicalisation and the conflation of issues are significantly impacting young people. To foster social cohesion in New Zealand, it is essential that young people develop skills to identify and counter misinformation and disinformation, as countries like Finland have been doing for several years.
Finally, what is unfolding at the Muslim schools in Auckland could well have been a threat to a synagogue, church, community centre, women's refuge, or even a shopping centre. We urge the Rt Hon Prime Minister to reconsider the decision of his Lead Coordination Minister regarding the most important recommendation of the Royal Commission: to establish a dedicated and purpose-specific national security agency. Threats like this demonstrate why we need to have a strategic approach for our national security.
Source:scoop.co.nz
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/AK2409/S00415/urgent-media-release-on-unfolding-situation-at-muslim-schools-in-auckland.htm
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Pakistan
PTI calls proposed amendments to extend judges' tenure an 'ambush on SC'
By Haider Sherazi & Sidra Hassan
September 15, 2024
ISLAMABAD: Registering strong opposition to the government's judiciary-centric constitutional amendment to increase judges' tenure and their retirement age, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) on Sunday rejected the new legislation and termed it an "ambush on the Supreme Court".
The government, determined to press ahead with legislation affecting the superior judiciary, is scrambling to court members from various political parties.
The proposed amendments aim to increase the retirement age of superior judges by three years, sparking controversy and a political tug-of-war between the government and the opposition.
Currently, Article 179 of the Constitution states that a Supreme Court judge shall hold office until the age of 65, while Article 195 sets the retirement age for high court judges at 62.
Speaking on Geo News programme Naya Pakistan on Friday, the government's legal affairs spokesperson, Barrister Aqeel Malik, confirmed that the government is also considering revising the seniority principle in the appointment of the top judge.
Currently, Article 175A of the Constitution mandates that the senior-most judge of the Supreme Court be appointed as the Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) based on seniority.
Well-placed sources informed Geo News on Saturday that the government, through the proposed constitutional amendment, plans to establish a constitutional court and amend Article 63-A, which addresses the defection of lawmakers.
Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar echoed similar sentiments in the upper house of parliament, stating that the 'Constitutional Bill' aligned with the provisions of the Charter of Democracy (COD), endorsed by all political parties, including Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI).
Speaking to Geo News, PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Khan stressed that such significant changes in the constitution should only be legislated in the nation’s and country's best interest, rather than for personal gains. However, he warned the government against "touching" the Supreme Court.
When asked about his meeting with Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman, Gohar acknowledged that "offers" were part of politics but clarified that the PTI had not made one.
"I believe Maulana has taken a principled stance [on this matter], and he is sticking to it. Judges should not be granted extensions, nor should their [retirement] age be increased," he said.
The PTI chairman warned that if passed, the legislation would tarnish the judiciary’s reputation and compromise the judicial system.
On the other hand, Advisor to the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister on Information, Barrister Muhammad Ali Saif, called the constitutional amendment nothing short of treason, describing it as an ambush on the Supreme Court.
He further criticised the 'phoney' government for attempting to introduce a notorious amendment to the Constitution.
The KP CM’s advisor also picked apart the Pakistan People's Party (PPP) for being in cahoots with the government on the legislation. “Bilawal Bhutto, the grandson of the constitution's founder, Zulfikar Bhutto, is spearheading the amendments,” he said. Saif further claimed that the coalition government was running from pillar to post to secure the “magic number.”
Separately, speaking to the media, PTI chief Gohar said such unconstitutional amendments should not be passed by the parliament. Condemning the lack of transparency, Gohar said that the content of the legislation had not yet been revealed. “We haven't even studied it. Is this amendment meant to target the judiciary?” he questioned.
“A government born in the dead of night does everything in the dark of night.”
Referring to discussions with the JUI-F chief, Gohar expressed hope that the politico would continue to stand for the judiciary, describing him as a “shrewd politician.” He reaffirmed the PTI parliamentarians' full support for the party's stance.
Source:thenews.com.pk
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://www.thenews.com.pk/latest/1230737-pti-calls-proposed-amendments-to-extend-judges-tenure-an-ambush-on-sc
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Mosques, buildings decorated to celebrate Eid Milad-un-Nabi (PBUH)
September 16, 2024
SUKKUR - Buildings and homes in Sukkur is being decorated with colorful lights, flags, buntings and banners to celebrate Eid Miladun Nabi (SAWW) with religious zeal and zest. Naat khawani and processions are being planned by various social and religious organizations to express devotion and pay tribute to the Prophet Muhammad (SAWW) on his birth anniversary.
Banners and billboards containing information about different naat competitions are being displayed at different entrance points of streets and main roads across the Sukkur city. The district administration and police have also been directed to take extra security measures for avoiding any untoward incident.
Meanwhile, vendors have established a number of stalls at every nook and corner, offering banners, badges, stickers and flags inscribed with slogans paying respect and reverence to Prophet Muhammad (SAWW).
A number of programmes are being chalked out to celebrate the birth of Prophet Muhammad (SAWW) with great reverence and devotion. Like every year, the government and religious organisations have planned a number of activities to celebrate the annual event. Strict security arrangements would be made to ensure security of the processions of Eid Miladun Nabi (SAWW). The main procession of Eid Miladun Nabi (SAWW) will start in the morning from Jamia Masjid Banded Road, Bhutta Road, in the city and after passing from different roads including Barrage road, Workshop road, Station Road, Minara Road, Clock Tower, will culminate at Teer Chowk Sukkur. The district administration has finalized security plan for the security of the faithful.
Source:nation.com.pk
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https://www.nation.com.pk/16-Sep-2024/mosques-buildings-decorated-to-celebrate-eid-milad-un-nabi-pbuh
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Govt likely to table constitutional amendment bill in NA today
By Ayaz Akbar Yousafzai & Haider Sherazi & Nausheen Yusuf
September 15, 2024
ISLAMABAD: The government's planned constitutional amendment bill is expected to be presented for voting in the National Assembly session on Sunday (today), Geo News reported citing sources.
According to the sources, a supplementary agenda is likely to be used to introduce the bill in the NA.
The NA and Senate sessions are set to commence at 4pm and 7pm, respectively.
As per the sources who spoke with Geo News on Saturday, the government has decided to establish a constitutional court and amend the Constitution’s Article 63-A, which focuses defection of legislators.
Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar has also echoed the same in the upper house of parliament the same day, saying the Constitutional Bill” was in line with the provisions of the Charter of Democracy (COD) endorsed by all the political parties including the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI).
It has also been proposed that the retirement age of superior judges should be increased by three years.
Currently, Article 179 of the Constitution envisages that a judge of the Supreme Court shall hold office until he attains the age of 65 years, whereas Article 195 of the Constitution says that a judge of a high court shall hold office until he attains the age of 62 years.
Furthermore, the government is also mulling revising the seniority principle in the appointment of the top judge, government's spokesperson on legal affairs Barrister Aqeel Malik confirmed while speaking on Geo News programme "Naya Pakistan on Friday.
At present, according to Article 175A of the Constitution, only the senior most judge of the Supreme Court is appointed as the Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) on the basis of principle of seniority.
PML-N instructs its members to vote for amendment
On the other hand, Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) Parliamentary Leader in National Assembly Khawaja Asif and Parliamentary Leader in Senate Irfan-ul-Haque Siddiqui have written a letter to members of the respective houses.
They instructed all the PML-N leaders to ensure their attendance in the House and cast their vote in favour of the constitutional amendment as per the party decision.
The parliamentary leaders said it was mandatory for all the members of the parliament to ballot for the constitutional amendment.
"Hence, no member should refrain from voting," they instructed.
The Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) too has directed its MPs to ensure their presence in the meeting and vote for the legislation, in accordance with the party leadership's instructions.
Meanwhile, the NA has issued a six-point agenda for the today’s session. Two calling attention notices other than questions are part of the agenda.
A motion of thanks for President Asif Ali Zardari’s address to the joint meeting of the parliament is included in the agenda. While, the members of NA’s raising points of order are also its part.
Moreover, a federal cabinet meeting presided by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif will be held at the Parliament House on Sunday, where the draft for constitutional amendment will sail through, sources told Geo News.
Whereas, an in-camera meeting of the Special Committee of the National Assembly on Constitution and Parliamentary Affairs has also been called in the Parliament House.
The sources said the NA special body meeting presided by Syed Khursheed Shah would discuss the proposed constitutional amendment bill as well.
Following which, the NA Secretariat has issued a notice about changing the time.
'Required numbers to be achieved'
Speaking to the media at the Parliament House, Defence Minister Asif has said that he hopes that at least some consensus will be reached today on the constitutional amendments.
"It is not necessary that everything should be done in one day. [I] hope that there will be progress on some suggestions today," Asif remarked.
Firing a broadside at the PTI, the defence minister said that the former ruling party's attitude has not been right since the first day and that it was the same at present times as well.
"It is not in the PTI's DNA to respect the Constitution and work with everyone," he said.
Commenting on whether the government has the required support, the politician said: "God willing, the required numbers will be achieved."
Stressing that the amendments weren't aimed at giving an extension to Chief Justice of Pakistan Qazi Faez Isa, Asif said that whatever reforms are brought in would be collective in nature and not individual-specific.
"The balance of the constitution has tilted towards the judiciary [and] supremacy of Parliament has been compromised which has to be fixed," he noted.
"We are hopeful that Maulana Fazlur Rehman will vote [in amendment's favour] and [figure of] 224 votes will be achieved," the politico said.
Defection clause
On the other hand, Leader of the Opposition in the Senate, Senator Shibli Faraz read the article 63-A of the Constitution in response to Senator Dar’s request of for the support of the legislation:
(1) If a member of a parliamentary party composed of a single political party in a House — (a) resigns from membership of his political party or joins another Parliamentary Party; or (b) votes or abstains from voting in the House contrary to any direction issued by the Parliamentary Party to which he belongs, in relations to (i) election of the Prime Minister or the Chief Minister; or (ii) a vote of confidence or a vote of no-confidence; or (iii) a Money Bill or a Constitution (Amendment) Bill;
“So it says very clearly and I rest my case,” he added.
Deputy PM Dar said this constitutional amendment did not imply earlier on the matter which was added after the 18th amendment as it was limited to three items.
“But we debated during the 18th Amendment Parliamentary Committee to add the fourth item as constitutional amendment was important to limit trampling of the party line as the party may move reference for disqualification of the said members,” he added.
For his part, Senator Farooq H Naik said the disqualification is applicable to the member on casting vote against the parliamentary party line.
“The supreme court has rewritten the Constitution in its wisdom in the Punjab government case and the review against it is pending and its violation of Article 63 as the Supreme Court cannot rewrite the Constitution and the Law but interpret the law The Court has taken over the power of the parliament and violation of the theory of separation of powers laid in the Constitution,” he said.
Source:thenews.com.pk
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://www.thenews.com.pk/latest/1230656-govt-likely-to-table-constitutional-amendment-bill-in-na-today
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PTI ‘made all-out efforts’ to stop amendment
Ikram Junaidi
September 16, 2024
ISLAMABAD: The main opposition party, Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI), on Sunday had one of its most hectic days after the Feb 8 elections, as it made “all possible efforts” to stop the government from introducing a controversial constitutional amendment.
The party’s efforts, which began early in the day, culminated in Barrister Gohar Ali Khan’s participation in the meeting of a special committee chaired by PPP’s Syed Khursheed Shah at the National Assembly late on Sunday night.
Earlier in the day, the party focused its efforts on winning over Maulana Fazlur Rehman, with several key leaders meeting the JUI-F chief for over an hour.
Footage of party leaders offering prayers with the JUI-F chief was also broadcast by channels.
Party sources said efforts were being made to ensure that no PTI legislator attend the Senate and National Assembly sittings.
However, the party’s high command said some legislators were not reachable and efforts were being made to contact and convince them to remain loyal to PTI.
Speaking to the media after meeting the Maulana, PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan said constitutional amendments should only be introduced in the best interests of the country, rather than for personal gain.
Asked if the PTI was offering something to the JUI-F in exchange for its support, he said the party was only trying to convince the JUI-F to not aim for temporary benefits.
He said if the government would have been sincere about the legislation it would not have kept the proposed amendments secret.
He warned the proposed legislation would only damage the reputation of the judiciary.
Barrister Muhammad Ali Saif, the spokesperson of the KP government, said such an amendment would constitute a clear case of sedition, as it was an “attack on the apex court”.
‘Missing’ MNA
Separately, PTI MNA Aurengzeb Khichi’s family claimed he has been ‘missing’ for several days.
According to Khichi family sources, MNA Aurengzeb has not been in contact with them.
The issue was raised in the Senate a day earlier by party leader Shibli Fraz, who accused the ruling coalition of pressurise his party’s lawmakers in a bid to get their votes in favour of the constitutional amendments bill.
Majeed Gill in Bahawalpur also contributed to this report
Source:dawn.com
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://www.dawn.com/news/1859255/pti-made-all-out-efforts-to-stop-amendment
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Bilawal blasts Imran’s tweet; Ayub defends leader
Syed Irfan Raza
September 15, 2024
• PPP chief accuses ex-PM of contempt against CJP, maligning army chief
• Ayub owns ‘each and every aspect of our leader’s tweet’
• Khawaja Asif says PTI’s credibility marred by ‘double standards’
ISLAMABAD: The much-anticipated bill aimed at fixing the tenure of the Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) was not tabled on Saturday in either house of parliament, with the National Assembly echoing controversial remarks made by PTI founder Imran Khan on social media.
The National Assembly session was adjourned by Deputy Speaker Syed Ghulam Mustafa Shah, who was presiding over the house, until today (Sunday), apparently to introduce the bill, which is said to be part of a broader constitutional package.
Tensions flared during the lower house proceedings as members from the opposition and treasury benches exchanged harsh remarks, each criticising the other’s top leadership.
Members from the treasury benches questioned PTI lawmakers about Imran Khan’s remarks on X (formerly known as Twitter), asking whether the statements were his own or posted by someone else. In response, Omar Ayub, Leader of the Opposition and a senior PTI leader, was the only one who claimed responsibility for Mr Khan’s tweet.
At the start of the National Assembly proceedings, the deputy speaker gave the floor to PPP chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari. Following his speech, the opposition accused the deputy speaker of violating the rules by allowing the PPP chief to speak during question hour.
Amid protests from the opposition, the deputy speaker suspended the question hour, allowing several top legislators from both the ruling coalition and the opposition to speak.
Mr Bhutto-Zardari also demanded clarification from the opposition leader on whether the controversial tweet was indeed posted by Imran Khan or by other PTI leaders like Sher Afzal Marwat or Ali Amin Gandapur.
He urged the PTI to investigate their internal ranks to determine who was responsible for Mr Khan’s inflammatory statements and actions that, according to him, had further harmed the party and the country.
Mr Bhutto-Zardari lamented that after the formation of a special parliamentary committee comprising legislators from both opposition and treasury benches, both sides had come closer to resolving issues, but Mr Khan’s tweet had ruined the entire effort. “The people have rejected the politics of hatred and prisoner No. 804,” Mr Bhutto-Zardari said, referring to the imprisoned PTI founder.
The PPP chairman accused Imran Khan of contempt against Chief Justice Qazi Faez Isa and of making politically motivated accusations against Chief of Army Staff Gen Asim Munir. He insisted that ongoing investigations into the Form-45 controversy would soon uncover the whole truth, leaving PTI representatives unable to face the public.
Ayub owns Imran’s tweet
In his speech, Leader of the Opposition Omar Ayub rejected Mr Bhutto-Zardari’s allegations and said he stood by Imran Khan’s remarks. “I own each and every aspect of our leader’s tweet,” he stated.
Mr Ayub, the grandson of former military dictator Ayub Khan, accused the PPP chairman of being trained by the military’s spokesperson, just like his (Mr Bhutto-Zardari’s) grandfather, Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, was trained by former military ruler Yahya Khan.
The opposition leader also referred to the recently released Auditor General’s report, criticising the military for irregularities totalling over Rs566 billion.
Mr Ayub also reiterated PTI’s support for Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur and stressed that fresh elections were the only solution to the country’s problems.
‘Double standards’
Defence Minister Khawaja Asif took aim at PTI’s “double standards”, claiming the party had been exposed within 48 hours of Imran Khan’s tweet. He proposed the dissolution of the special committee established by the National Assembly speaker to restore the prestige of parliament, claiming that PTI was unwilling to engage with the government while seeking dialogue with the military establishment instead.
The minister said the PTI’s credibility had been shattered due to its “double standards”, blaming Imran Khan and his followers for tarnishing the political climate. He added that Gen Ayub Khan had appointed Gen Yahya Khan as the army chief, who was responsible for the country’s disintegration.
PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar called on all parties to work together to resolve national issues. He claimed that 70 per cent of Pakistan’s population supported PTI, and if called upon by Imran Khan, they would take to the streets in force. And if this happened, “people will forget what happened in Bangladesh”, he said, referring to the recent turmoil in that country that led to the ouster of former premier Sheikh Hasina.
Ex-premier Raja Pervaiz Ashraf condemned PTI as an enemy of Pakistan’s interests, parliament and peace. On Mr Khan’s controversial post, Mr Ashraf said, “No patriot would post such a tweet or humiliate the country’s institutions.”
Meanwhile, Minister for States and Frontier Regions Amir Muqam criticised KP CM Ali Amin Gandapur, urging him to focus on his governance rather than attacking national institutions.
Source:dawn.com
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Europe
Durham Mosque Donates Thousands Of Pounds Riot Funds To Several Charities To 'Help Others'
15 Sep, 2024
Thousands of pounds raised for a mosque in the aftermath of recent rioting has been donated to several charities.
Police faced a barrage of missiles as they diverted crowds away from the Nasir Mosque in Hartlepool, County Durham, in July.
A fundraiser was launched to "show appreciation" for the place of worship, with its initial £200 target surpassed within minutes.
In all, £16,000 was raised and now groups, including food banks, a domestic violence charity and a hospice, have received donations in what mosque leaders described as "a powerful rebuttal of hate".
The online appeal had been launched by Andrew Cooper, who praised mosque volunteers for distributing almost 30,000 meals across the community in recent years.
The donations were presented at an event at the mosque on Saturday.
'Worthy causes'
Imam Tahir Selby said it had been "heart-warming to witness the community's love and support" in the days after the violence, which happened in the wake of a fatal knife attack on youngsters at a Merseyside dance class.
He added: "For years, we've worked to foster understanding and this response reaffirms our efforts.
"Islam teaches us to help others so the entire amount has been donated to worthy causes in Hartlepool."
Among the groups to benefit was the Salaam Community Centre, which received £5,000, while Alice House Hospice and Belle Vue Community Centre shared £3,000.
A number of other organisations were each given £1,000, including St Aidan's Kitchen, Epilepsy Outlook and Harbour Support which helps abused women.
Donations for the same amount were made to the police benevolent fund and Hartlepool's ambulance service to be used for a defibrillator kit.
Ahead of the disturbance on 31 July, Mr Selby said officers had warned the mosque that a group of protesters might try to approach the building.
He said he was later urged by colleagues to "lock the gate" and discovered police had blocked both sides of the building to prevent people getting closer.
The crowd was diverted and instead headed to Murray Street.
Source:bbc.com
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https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cx2le2w172do
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Three Ukrainian jets shot down – Russian MOD
15 Sep, 2024
Russian forces have shot down three Ukrainian fighter jets over the last 24 hours, the Defense Ministry in Moscow has said.
Two Sukhoi Su-27 aircraft operated by Kiev were destroyed by the Russian Aerospace Forces, while Russian air defenses have shot down a Mikoyan MiG-29 plane, the ministry said in its daily update on Sunday.
During the same period, the Russian air defenses also intercepted a US-made HIMARS rocket, four French-made Hammer guided bombs, and 55 drones, it added.
Over the past 24 hours, Ukrainian forces lost more than 2,200 troops along the front line and dozens of units of various equipment, including several US-made M777 towed artillery pieces and British L-119 howitzers.
The production of Su-27s and MiG-29s started in the Soviet Union in the early 1980s, with the fighter jets intended to counter American fourth generation aircraft such as F-15s and F-16s.
In July, Forbes reported, citing Oryx defense analysis data, that Ukraine had some 125 jets including Su-27s, Su-25s, MiG-29s and others when the conflict between Moscow and Kiev escalated in February 2022. Around 90 of those aircraft have been destroyed since then, it added.
A “coalition” of European states, including the Netherlands, Denmark, Norway and Belgium, promised to supply Kiev with some 80 F-16s more than a year ago.
Ukraine, which had received fewer than a dozen of the US-designed jets by early August, lost its first F-16 during its maiden combat deployment at the end of the same month. The Western-supplied warplane went down during a Russian missile and drone attack on targets in Kiev, killing one of the country’s most experienced pilots, Aleksey ‘Moonfish’ Mes.
Ukrainian investigators have not yet announced the reasons for the crash. According to media reports, the versions on the table include technical problems, pilot error and friendly fire.
The Russian Defense Ministry did not report shooting down an F-16. Some Russian outlets claimed that the Western plane could have been destroyed on the ground by an Iskander missile during a strike on an airfield in western Ukraine.
In March, Russian President Vladimir Putin said that the use of F-16s in the conflict will make them “a legitimate target” for Russian forces, warning that the planes will be struck even at airfields inside NATO countries if they operate from there.
Source:rt.com
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https://www.rt.com/russia/604055-ukraine-jets-sukhoi-f16/
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Venezuela foils CIA plot to kill Maduro – interior minister
15 Sep, 2024
Venezuela’s security service has thwarted a CIA-backed plot to assassinate President Nicolas Maduro and stage acts of terrorism, the interior minister has claimed. Diosdado Cabello said two Spanish, one Czech and three US nationals, including a member of the American military in active service, had been detained, and that several hundred military-grade firearms had been seized.
A contested presidential election back in July saw Maduro re-elected for a third term, with 52% of the vote. However, the opposition accused the government of rigging the ballot. The US, EU, most Latin American states, and the G7 have since refused to recognize Maduro as the elected head of state.
Caracas, in turn, has accused Washington of attempting to stage a coup.
Speaking to the broadcaster Telesur on Saturday, Cabello claimed that a US citizen named Wilbert Castaneda, a member of a Navy SEAL detachment decorated for missions in Afghanistan and Iraq, was the ring-leader of one of the groups. He was apprehended on September 1, the minister added.
A spokesperson for the US Department of State confirmed to the EFE media outlet that several American citizens, including an active serviceman, had been detained in Venezuela.
The official, however, “categorically” dismissed allegations of a US government role in any conspiracy to oust Maduro.
The Venezuelan interior minister also revealed that two Spanish nationals – José María Basoa Valdovinos and Andres Martinez Adasme – had been detained in the south of the country.
According to Diosdado Cabello, both are connected to Spain’s National Intelligence Center – a claim Madrid has denied.
The plan supposedly involved mercenaries and Venezuelan criminal groups, and envisaged, among other things, mass prison riots across the country.
The alleged conspirators smuggled in some 400 firearms, which Venezuelan security forces seized, Cabello said. The group was also allegedly seeking to procure C4 plastic explosives.
He went on to suggest that the entire operation had been directed by the White House and the CIA, and envisaged the assassination of President Maduro as well as Executive Vice President Delcy Rodriguez and Cabello himself.
The suspected saboteurs were also intending to stage a false-flag attack on the Argentinian embassy in Caracas and to pin it on the Venezuelan government, the minister claimed.
In addition, the group had plans to attack public utilities and transport infrastructure across Venezuela, according to Cabello.
“We want the world to know that Venezuela is under siege by [forces of] imperialism,” the interior minister stated, pointing the finger at “far-right” forces at home.
“Spain has to do with this, and the US is managing this operation,” Cabello alleged.
Source:rt.com
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https://www.rt.com/news/604052-venezuela-us-serviceman-arrested-terrorist-plot/
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North America
Trump rushed to safety and suspect held after man spotted with rifle
16 Sep, 2024
Former President Donald Trump is safe following an apparent assassination attempt at his Florida golf course, and a "potential suspect" is in custody, US authorities have confirmed.
Secret Service agents spotted the barrel of a rifle poking through some bushes and opened fire at him, officials said. The FBI said Trump was 300-500 yards (275 to 455m) away at the time.
An AK47-style firearm and scope, along with two backpacks and a GoPro camera, were later found at the scene.
A witness reported seeing the suspect running from some bushes and jumping into a black Nissan car after the agents had fired at him multiple times.
Follow live: Trump targeted in apparent assassination attempt at golf course, says FBI
The witness took a picture of the vehicle and number plate and it was stopped later in Martin County, north of the club.
"We got a hold of Martin County Sheriff's Office, alerted them, and they spotted the vehicle and pulled it over and detained the guy," said Sheriff Ric Bradshaw of Palm Beach County.
"After that, we took the witness that witnessed the incident, flew him up there and he identified as the person that he saw running out of the bushes, that jumped into the car," the sheriff told a news briefing.
In an email to his supporters, Trump said he was "safe and well".
"Nothing will slow me down," he wrote. "I will never surrender!"
The incident comes almost exactly two months after a gunman attempted to assassinate Trump at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, striking his ear.
The Secret Service confirmed in a post on X that they were investigating a "protective incident" involving Trump that took place shortly before 14:00 EST (19:00 BST) on Sunday.
ANALYSIS: America faces a new normal in political violence
What we know so far about Trump assassination attempt
Later Sheriff Bradshaw said "the Secret Service agent that was on the course did a fantastic job".
He added: "What they do is they have an agent that jumps one hole ahead of time to where the president was at and he was able to spot this rifle barrel sticking out of the fence and immediately engage that individual, at which time the individual took off.”
There is now a heavy security presence on the roads and in the waters around the former president's Mar-a-Lago property in Florida, and his nearby golf course at West Palm Beach.
US media, citing unnamed law enforcement officials, have named the suspect as Ryan Wesley Routh, 58, of Hawaii.
BBC Verify has found social media profiles matching that name. They indicate that Routh called for foreign fighters to go to Ukraine to battle against Russian forces.
Routh was charged and convicted of numerous offences in Guilford County, North Carolina, between 2002 and 2010, according to a law enforcement source who spoke to the BBC's US partner CBS News.
The offences included carrying a concealed weapon, resisting arrest, hit and run motor vehicle, driving with a revoked licence and possession of stolen property.
The White House said President Joe Biden and Vice-President Kamala Harris had been briefed about the golf course incident.
"I am relieved that the former president is unharmed," Biden said in a statement.
Harris is in a tight race against Trump in the presidential election - the 5 November vote is expected to hang on the results in a few key swing states.
Harris issued a statement saying "I am deeply disturbed by the possible assassination attempt of former President Trump today.
"As we gather the facts, I will be clear: I condemn political violence. We all must do our part to ensure that this incident does not lead to more violence."
She also said "I am thankful that former President Trump is safe" and praised the US Secret Service and police "for their vigilance".
Trump was injured while addressing a crowd in Butler, Pennsylvania, on 13 July when a gunman, Thomas Matthew Crooks, fired at him with an AR-15–style rifle from the roof of a nearby building.
The shooting left one audience member dead, while Crooks, 20, was killed at the scene by a Secret Service sniper.
The Secret Service faced intense scrutiny over how the shooter from Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, was able to open fire on the former president.
The director of the agency, Kimberly Cheatle, resigned within two weeks of the incident.
Source:bbc.com
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https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c3rllnd1pypo
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US denies claim CIA plotted to kill Venezuela president
15 Sep, 2024
The United States has dismissed claims made by Venezuela that the CIA plotted to assassinate President Maduro and other top officials.
Three US citizens, two Spaniards and one Czech national have been arrested on suspicion of plotting to destabilise the country, the Interior Minister said.
Calling the detainees “mercenaries”, Diosdado Cabello claimed that the CIA “is leading the operation” and that hundreds of weapons had been seized.
The US rejected the claims, which come after Washington placed 16 senior government officials under sanctions, as "categorically false".
Venezuela crisis in brief
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A spokesperson for the State Department said a US military member was being held and noted "unconfirmed reports of two additional US citizens detained in Venezuela."
Cabello responded by saying the detainees had contacted "French mercenaries" from Eastern Europe and were involved in "an operation to try to attack" Venezuela.
He added that "more than 400 rifles were seized" and accused the detainees of plotting "terrorist acts."
The Venezuelan government said the Spaniards detained were linked to Madrid's National Intelligence Centre (CNI).
Spanish government sources have told local media the pair do not belong to the intelligence organisation.
"Spain denies and categorically rejects any insinuation that it is involved in a political destabilisation operation in Venezuela," a source told AFP.
The Czech Republic has yet to react the claims.
In a news conference on Saturday Cabello said: "The CIA is leading this operation, and that does not surprise us but they, the National Intelligence Centre of Spain, have always maintained a low profile knowing that the CIA operates in this area.
"These two detainees even tell us about a group of mercenaries they are looking for to bring to Venezuela with very clear objectives to assassinate President Nicolas Maduro, Vice President Delcy Rodriguez, myself, and another group of comrades who are leading our party and our revolution."
The allegations come amid a feud between the Maduro government and both the US and Spain stemming from Maduro’s disputed victory in July’s election.
Venezuela’s National Electoral Council (CNE), which is closely aligned with the government, declared Maduro the winner of the vote, but has not published detailed voting tallies.
Data published by the opposition suggests its candidate, Edmundo González, was the true winner.
On Thursday, Washington announced sanctions targeting "key officials involved in Maduro’s fraudulent and illegitimate claims of victory and his brutal crackdown on free expression following the election".
Following the detentions, a state department official said Washington "continues to support a democratic solution to the political crisis in Venezuela".
On Friday, Venezuelan Foreign Minister Yván Gil summoned the Spanish ambassador in Caracas after Spain’s defence minister, Margarita Robles, described the Venezuelan government as a “dictatorship”.
Gil said the comments were “insolent, meddling and rude” and indicated a “deterioration of relations between the two countries”.
It came days after González arrived in Spain to claim political asylum, a step that the overall leader of the Venezuela’s opposition, María Corina Machado, said he had taken "to preserve his freedom, his integrity and his life".
Spanish authorities have request more information about the detentions from Venezuela, and the Spanish embassy has requested access to the detainees.
Source:bbc.com
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https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/czxgl2zjgzzo
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Southeast Asia
Child sexual abuse cases should never happen with Muslims, Negeri Sembilan’s Tuanku Muhriz says after Global Ikhwan-linked raid
16 Sep 2024
SEREMBAN, Sept 16 — The Yang Dipertuan Besar of Negeri Sembilan, Tuanku Muhriz Tuanku Munawir, expressed his regret and sadness over recent reports of child exploitation involving an organisation.
“I am deeply saddened by reports of an organisation masquerading as an Islamic welfare entity, yet allegedly abusing children under their care and exploiting them as labourers.
“This behaviour is contrary to the principles that Muslims should uphold,” His Royal Highness remarked during the state-level Maulidur Rasul celebration at the Seremban City Council Square today.
Tuanku Muhriz emphasised that every Muslim should exemplify true Islamic values in their daily lives, such as sincerity, honesty, trust, justice, unity, brotherhood, simplicity, and mutual respect.
He noted that Islam, as the Federal religion enshrined in the Federal Constitution, provides Muslims with the opportunity to demonstrate the religion’s greatness and purity to the non-Muslim community.
Islam not only addresses the dimensions of the hereafter but also provides guidance on worldly matters that lead people towards goodness, making it a religion of universal mercy, he said.
Tuanku Muhriz emphasised that Islam is an Ad-Deen, a comprehensive way of life that encompasses all aspects of human existence, highlighting unity and fostering positive relationships among people.
“Rasulullah SAW was sent by Allah SWT to foster unity in a diverse society by emphasising kind speech and setting a precedent through his actions. The leadership qualities exhibited by the Prophet SAW demonstrate his commitment to social justice, equality, and moral integrity,” said Tuanku Muhriz.
He urged all leaders and Muslims in the state to work together in strengthening unity and brotherhood and practice an attitude of helping each other and respecting other races.
“If we extend our help to others, we will receive help in return. If we show respect to others, we will be respected in turn,” he said. — Bernama
Source:malaymail.com
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https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2024/09/16/child-sexual-abuse-cases-should-never-happen-with-muslims-negeri-sembilans-tuanku-muhriz-says-after-global-ikhwan-linked-raid/150586
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All MA63 issues can be resolved in spirit of Malaysia MADANI - Abang Johari
BERNAMA
16-09- 2024
KUCHING: All matters under the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) can be resolved as long as the federal, Sarawak and Sabah governments discuss them in the spirit of Malaysia MADANI and with mutual respect, said Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
He said that although 11 issues under MA63 have been resolved, there are still other matters that require separate discussions between him, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor.
“Among the unresolved matters is the right to collect stamp duty or taxes which must be paid when making property sale and purchase agreements, amounting to hundreds of millions of ringgit annually in Sarawak,“ he said in a speech today at the Sarawak-level Malaysia Day gathering in Sri Aman, about 192 kilometres from here.
In his speech, read out by Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas, he expressed his gratitude to Anwar for increasing the interim special grant for Sarawak and Sabah from RM300 million to RM600 million annually.
He noted that this special grant is as provided for in the Federal Constitution.
Abang Johari emphasised that the working relationship between the Sarawak and federal governments should be based on and respect what is stipulated in the Federal Constitution and MA63.
He said Sarawak’s request under MA63 is an effort to correct and fulfil Sarawak’s rights and privileges as enshrined in the Federal Constitution and the MA63 Agreement.
According to him, Sarawak has its own political and administrative system, with clear boundaries and demographics, and its status cannot be diminished or downgraded to that of a non-partner in the formation of Malaysia.
“In commemorating this historic Malaysia Day, we must remember that Sarawak is not ‘seeking favour’ as it, along with other regions, formed Malaysia as a sovereign nation with its own constitution,“ he added.
Source:thesun.my
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https://thesun.my/local-news/all-ma63-issues-can-be-resolved-in-spirit-of-malaysia-madani-abang-johari-LC13006296
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On Maulidur Rasul, PM Anwar calls on Muslims to continue making Prophet Muhammad an exemplary role model and learn from him
16 Sep 2024
KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 16 — Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim today said that Muslims should continue to refer to and make Prophet Muhammad SAW, who is the greatest Murabbi (educator) of the ummah, as Uswatun Hasanah or the exemplary role model when the rest of the world is struggling to find one.
The prime minister said every Muslim should learn from the Prophet, not only in terms of his personality, but also his leadership, social participation and family, especially in the context of the Madinah nation model.
“Our aspirations for a Madani nation are also based on the lessons we learned from his wisdom and the Madinah Charter he mooted using the formula of diversity in the frame of unity based on justice and compassion,” he posted on Facebook on the occasion of Maulidur Rasul today.
The National Maulidur Rasul 2024/1446H celebration, themed “Al-Falah Pemacu Malaysia Madani” was held at the Putrajaya International Convention Centre today.
The King and Queen of Malaysia, Their Majesties Sultan Ibrahim and Raja Zarith Sofiah, graced the event which was also attended by Anwar and 6,000 people. — Bernama
Source:malaymail.com
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PAS opens associate membership to non-Muslims, except atheists
Keyla Supharta
September 16, 2024,
Malaysian Islamist Party (PAS) has amended its constitution to allow non-Muslims to join the Islamic party as associate members.
The party leaders approved an amendment to its constitutions in its 70th muktamar (conference), Malaysia media Malaysiakini and NST reported.
However, the associate membership is not open to atheists.
“If you want to become an associate member, you must have religion, be it a Hindu, Christian, Buddhist or other religion available in the world," PAS Secretary-General Takiyuddin Hassan said on Saturday (Sep. 14).
“However, those without a religion like atheists are disallowed."
Takiyuddin said that the move will strengthen PAS's non-Muslim Supporters Wing (DHPP) to "contribute towards the direction of the party better".
70th muktamar
PAS had its 70th Central Annual Muktamar from Sep. 11 to Sep. 15.
Among the topics discussed were the various ways to appeal younger voters.
A member had also proposed that members should marry wives from different races and cultures to earn votes from non-Malay voters.
Meanwhile, another member also suggested that the sinkhole which swallowed a tourist in Kuala Lumpur (KL) was the result of divine retribution for the evil actions of the Democratic Action Party (DAP).
Source:mothership.sg
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https://mothership.sg/2024/09/pas-open-membership-non-muslim/
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DPM Zahid: Putrajaya never made halal certs mandatory, non-Muslims won’t be forced to apply
16 Sep 2024
SHAH ALAM, Sept 16 — The government has never made a decision to require all restaurants nationwide or any food and beverage (F&B) industry to apply for halal certification, says Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.
He said any proposal and study on halal certification would not compel non-Muslim operators to do so.
“Discussions regarding halal issues have been ongoing for a long time. In fact, halal certificates are usually applied for by non-Muslim restaurant operators in the country,” he said when officiating the 78th MIC General Assembly at the Ideal Convention Centre (IDCC) here, yesterday.
Ahmad Zahid, who is also the chairman of the Malaysia Halal Council, thus urged his colleagues in the Unity Government not to misinterpret the issue.
“Do not fall into the trap set by our political opponents. Yesterday, after the nomination of candidates in the Mahkota state constituency, we from Barisan Nasional (BN) held a meeting with all PH parties.
“I have informed those involved in the ongoing conflict over this issue, that do not raise sensitive or contentious issues; respect each other’s religion,” he said.
Previously, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Datuk Dr Mohd Na’im Mokhtar was reported to have said that the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (Jakim) was considering a proposal to make halal certification mandatory for restaurants and companies that did not serve pork or alcohol.
The issue sparked controversy when Seputeh MP Teresa Kok reportedly said that halal certification should be voluntary, allowing operators to make decisions based on market demand, not by force.
Communications Minister and Government Spokesperson Fahmi Fadzil was reported saying that Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim had requested Mohd Na’im to present a report on the issue at the upcoming Cabinet meeting. — Bernama
Source:malaymail.com
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