Pahalgam Terror Attack: ‘La Ilaha Illallah’ Saved Debasish Bhattacharya, A Hindu Professor At Assam University
New Age Islam News Bureau
27 April 2025
Bhattacharya recalled that more gunshots were heard and his son saw one of the terrorists ask something to a tourist and then shoot him. (Express Photo)
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• Pahalgam Terror Attack: ‘La Ilaha Illallah’ Saved Debasish Bhattacharya, A Hindu Professor At Assam University
• PM Shehbaz Welcomes Iran’s Willingness To Help Ease Pakistan-India Tensions
• Islamic Emirate Issues Statement on the Historic Military Coup Carried Out By Communist Forces
• What 8-Million-Year-Old Stalagmites Reveal About Saudi Arabia’s Lost Green Past
• Cardinals Congregate In Rome To Elect New Pope After Death Of Francis At 88: Who They Are And What They Do
India
• ‘We Are United Against Terrorism’: Malerkotla Sends Out Strong Message Of Communal Harmony
• Pahalgam Tragedy: Are Unresolved Questions Of Partition Reflected In Attack, Asks Mani Shankar Aiyar
• Mosque Announcement Sparks Communal Tension In Jhalawar’s Dug Town
• Indian Army Nursing College Website Hacked: Menacing Messages Inciting Religious Animosity
• BJP MLA Balmukund Acharya Booked After Protest Outside Mosque Sparks Tension In Jaipur
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Pakistan
• Threatening calls to two hotels traced to neighbouring country: Islamabad police
• India Suffers From ‘Insecurity Syndrome’: Minister For Special Initiatives
• Concern In AJK: Rise In The Water Level In River Jhelum At Muzaffarabad
• PkMAP protests Afghans’ repatriation in Quetta
• Two more suspects in custody killed during ‘encounter’ with police in Attock
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South Asia
• Pak Defence Minister seeks stronger ties with Bangladesh
• India’s Trans-Shipment Revocation Should Be A Wake-Up Call For Bangladesh
• Many former US allies in Afghanistan live in hiding, fearing persecution, says Middle East Institute
• Islamic Emirate Expresses Grief Over Explosion in Iran’s Bandar Abbas
• Afghan migrants in Limbo as US immigration cases remain suspended
• More than 1,100 Afghan families deported by Iran, Pakistan in one day, ministry
• WHO: Afghanistan’s Malaria progress at risk despite efforts
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Arab World
• Saudi leaders offer condolences to Iran over Bandar Abbas port blast
• Saudi Arabia welcomes Palestinian leadership reforms
• Saudi ministries unite for safe Hajj
• Jazan municipality plants seedlings for green goals
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Europe
• Plans for an ‘urgently needed’ Muslim community centre in Winnersh refused
• Police manhunt continues after fatal mosque attack in south of France
• Knifeman hunted after fatal stabbing at mosque in south of France
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Mideast
• Iran ‘Extremely Cautious’ About Success Of Nuclear Talks With The US
• Iran and the US hold hours of expert talks in Oman over Tehran’s rapidly advancing nuclear program
• U.S. says "further progress was made" in third round of nuclear talks with Iran
• Huge blast at key Iranian port kills 25 and injures 800
• Palestinian Islamic Jihad sends condolence message to Iran
• Steadfastness & logical reasoning, the lesson and approach of infallible Imams
• US-Iran nuclear talks signal progress, next round in Europe
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Southeast Asia
• Linking PAS To WP? Accused Of Meddling In Singapore’s Polls, Iskandar Says He’s Not Even Influential At Home
• Indonesia's Intelligence Agency BIN Will Move to IKN by June 2025
• Malaysia pushes for Asean Halal Council at Jakarta talks to boost trade, harmonise certification
• Kedah authorities urge calm after mysterious disease cluster hits 39 students, staff after Yan camp visit
• Abang Johari to promote Sarawak’s semiconductor and renewable energy ambitions in UK, France and UAE visits
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North America
• In 1912, Canada’s first Muslim voter was put on trial — here’s why that story matters today
• Judge considers barring AG from prosecuting UM pro-Palestinian protestor cases
• Trump says US ships need free travel through Panama, Suez
• Suit up, but not in black: Donald Trump, Prince William’s attire at Pope Francis’ funeral sparks controversy
• Donald Trump’s top security chief lost her $4,400 Gucci purse — who stole it and how
• What we know about attacker who drove SUV into crowd, killing several at Canada's • Vancouver street festival
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Africa
• Tinubu Committed To Unifying Nigerians Across Religious Divide – Minister
• $220m Fine: Judgement Will Affect Our Services In Nigeria – WhatsApp
• 2027: Tinubu can’t win in free, fair election – Dele Momodu
• 2027: Atiku’s coalition against Tinubu unfair, unjustified, says Nwosu
• Despite Gunmen Attack, Supporters Throng Pro-Wike Mega Rally In Bayelsa
Compiled by New Age Islam News Bureau
URL: https://newageislam.com/islamic-world-news/pahalgam-terror-attack-assam-university/d/135331
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Pahalgam Terror Attack: ‘La Ilaha Illallah’ Saved Debasish Bhattacharya, A Hindu Professor At Assam University
By Tanusree Bose
Kolkata: April 26, 2025
Bhattacharya recalled that more gunshots were heard and his son saw one of the terrorists ask something to a tourist and then shoot him. (Express Photo)
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Death was just a bullet away from Debasish Bhattacharya, an Assam University professor who was on a six-day Kashmir tour with his family, on the fateful day when terrorists gunned down tourists in Pahalgam on April 22.
Born to a Hindu Brahmin family, Bhattacharya, while recounting the spine-chilling story of survival, told The Indian Express that he recited Islamic verse ‘Kalma’ as he saw four terrorists gun down (Hindu) men in front of his eyes.
“Our Kashmiri tour was from April 21 to April 26, and we were to stay at Pahalgam for a day. On that day, we entered the arena called Mini Switzerland from the back side. Not many people were there on that side. We were all very relaxed. My wife was looking at some shawls while my son was walking around and I took some photos. Suddenly, I heard gunshots and asked the local photographer about it. He said shots are fired by the forest people to scare away monkeys,” said Bhattacharya, the head of the Bengali Department of Assam University.
Bhattacharya recalled that more gunshots were heard and his son saw one of the terrorists ask something to a tourist and then shoot him.
“Quickly, we all ran towards a tree and lay down. Another couple with a child came there for shelter. A terrorist came there and asked the husband something that was inaudible to us. Then I saw the man shoot him dead in front of my eyes,” said the professor.
Bhattacharya said that after the murder, the terrorist quietly walked up to the group and asked the professor, “Kya bol rahe ho?” (What are you saying?)
“At that moment everyone was chanting ‘La ilaha illallah’. I also started chanting that verse, even though no sound was coming out of my mouth, out of fear. I do not know what the terrorist felt, but he walked away. But then again, the terrorist returned from the opposite side, took a round, and then walked away. When the terrorist was 20 metres away, we all crossed the fence and ran for our lives and wandered for two hours in the mountains, not getting any signal,” Bhattacharya recounted.
Bhattacharya mentioned that with no mobile network and having no idea from where the terrorists would emerge from the mountains, they followed the horses’ footprints and reached a village.
“Much to our relief, we were able to contact our local driver, and a local resident took us to safety. A family from Chhattisgarh was also with us had got separated from the group. Luckily, their child and the other members of that family were with us and we quickly descended and came back to Srinagar. It’s like a new life to me I faced death right in the face.”
This was the family’s first visit to Kashmir, but Bhattacharya does not know if he will visit the Valley again. But he says his son Drobadeep Bhattacharya would visit the place in the future.
Source: Indianexpress.Com
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PM Shehbaz welcomes Iran’s willingness to help ease Pakistan-India tensions
April 27, 2025
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian had a telephonic conversation on Saturday evening, during which the former welcomed Iran’s readiness to help de-escalate tensions between Pakistan and India, Tehran’s state-run IRNA reported.
The April 22 attack in Pahalgam saw 26 people, mostly tourists, killed in what is being described as the deadliest armed attack in the disputed Himalayan region since the year 2000. Responsibility for the attack was allegedly claimed by the hitherto unknown The Resistance Front (TRF).
Since the incident, the nuclear-armed nations have unleashed a raft of measures against each other, with India unilaterally suspending the critical Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) and Pakistan retaliating by threatening to put the Simla Agreement in abeyance and closing its airspace for Indian flights.
According to the report, PM Shehbaz reiterated his official invitation to the Iranian president and welcomed Iran’s readiness to help ease tensions.
The premier also emphasised that Pakistan sought peace in the region and that if Iran wishes to play a role in this regard, Islamabad would welcome it.
“Pakistan condemns all forms of terrorism and has no connection to the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, located in the India-held Kashmir region,” the statement read.
Moreover, the prime minister also repeated that Pakistan is ready to “participate in a transparent and unbiased investigation into the terrorist attack”, saying that the country has been one of the greatest victims of terrorism over the past two decades, with thousands of its citizens losing their lives and the government spending billions of dollars to combat this menace.
Regarding India’s decision on the Indus Waters Treaty with Pakistan, he said that weaponising water was “unacceptable and that Islamabad will defend itself at any cost”.
The agency also reported the prime minister “expressed solidarity with the Iranian government and people following the powerful explosion at Shahid Rajaee port, saying Islamabad is ready to assist Tehran in addressing this incident”.
Iran’s President Pezeshkian, for his part, thanked the premier “for his solidarity regarding the incident at Shahid Rajaee port” and praised Pakistan’s efforts for “peace in the region”.
“The Iranian president invited the Pakistani prime minister to visit Tehran, and in return, Sharif renewed his invitation to Pezeshkian to visit Islamabad,” the report read.
Source: Www.dawn.Com
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Islamic Emirate Issues Statement on the Historic Military Coup Carried Out By Communist Forces
2025-04-27
KABUL(BNA): Exactly 47 years ago, on the 7th of Saur (April 27, 1978), a military coup was carried out by communist forces against the government of the time, paving the way for communist aggression against the sovereignty of a proud Muslim nation.
This coup was orchestrated to turn Afghanistan into a colony, to enslave its people, and to impose a communist ideology upon them. However, the courageous and freedom-seeking Muslim people of Afghanistan, with bare hands, refused to allow the dreams of Soviet colonialism in the twentieth century to materialize.
They waged a heroic struggle for 14 years, and ultimately, on the 8th of Saur (April 28, 1992), reclaimed their freedom and independence.
Alhamdulillah, with gratitude to Allah Almighty, the Islamic Emirate condemns the coup of the 7th of Saur and the subsequent communist invasion of our sacred homeland. It regards the 8th of Saur as a historic day of liberation, a source of national pride, and a great divine blessing, for which we must remain thankful.
At that time, the oppressed and long-suffering people of Afghanistan rejoiced in the fruits of their 14-year jihad. They looked forward to a future of freedom, peace, and living under a Sharia-based system of their own choosing.
Unfortunately, a few power-hungry and self-serving individuals once again shattered these pure aspirations by igniting the flames of factional conflict and internal wars. In doing so, they dashed the great hopes of the Afghan Muslim people for the establishment and consolidation of a genuine Islamic system.
The Islamic Emirate was founded to restore the country’s independence, bring about unity and harmony, eliminate chaos and disorder, and implement the rule of Sharia. It has now achieved that goal.
This is the time to firmly safeguard our Sharia-based system and, through unity and commitment, ensure the continuation and strength of a stable Afghanistan adorned with Islamic principles.
Source: Www.bakhtarnews.Af
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https://www.bakhtarnews.af/en/islamic-emirate-issues-statement-on-the-historic-7th-and-8th-of-saur/
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What 8-million-year-old stalagmites reveal about Saudi Arabia’s lost green past
Jonathan Gornall
April 26, 2025
Researchers at Northumbria University discovered there were multiple humid phases in central Arabia over millions of years. (Getty Images)
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LONDON: Two major surprises greeted researchers in the Department of Geography and Environmental Sciences at Northumbria University when they returned to the UK from Saudi Arabia with samples of ancient stalagmites collected in caves northeast of Riyadh.
The plan was to use the samples to identify specific humid phases in central Arabia over the past million years or so which would have temporarily “greened” the more usually arid region, transforming the so-called Saharo-Arabian Desert Barrier into a land bridge across which many mammalian species — including early humans — would have made the journey out of Africa.
Hubert Vonhof (right), geologist at the Max Planck Institute for Chemistry, and Alexander Budsky, scientist at the State Museum in Kärten, were part of the team that analyzed dripstones from Saudi Arabian caves. (Supplied)
Two different radiometric dating methods are used to date the calcium carbonate laid down in stalagmites — uranium-thorium (U-Th) and uranium-lead (U-Pb) — which both measure the extent to which radioactive isotopes in the material have decayed.
“At first we suspected the stalagmites might be quite a lot younger, so we used the uranium-thorium method,” said Monika Markowska, a senior research fellow in the Geography and Environmental Sciences Department at Northumbria University in Newcastle, England.
Stalagmites, stalactites and “flowstones,” known collectively as speleothems, are created on the floors, roofs and walls of caves by rainwater dripping through from the surface.
As water passes through the soil or rock above a cave, it collects minerals, including calcium carbonate. In the case of stalagmites, over many millennia, these minerals form conical towers, slowly growing up from the floor of the cave.
The age and rate at which these stalagmites have grown can be accurately measured using various methods of radiometric dating, which calculates a material’s age by measuring the presence of radioactive elements.
Until recently, evidence of environmental conditions in Arabia extended back only 450,000 years. But in 2020, a paper published in the International Journal of Earth, Climate and Life Interactions reported that analysis of stalagmites collected from caves in southern Arabia — Yemen and northern Oman — had pushed the record back 1.1 million years.
In that time, analysis of the stalagmites revealed there had been no fewer than 21 “pluvial periods” — periods of increased rainfall, creating “numerous opportunities” for early humans to migrate out of Africa and into Eurasia, unimpeded by the more typical periods of arid weather and desert conditions that otherwise acted as barriers to early human dispersal.
But, as the authors of the latest research report in Nature said, “although numerous humid phases occurred in southern Arabia during the past 1.1 million years, little is known about Arabia’s paleoclimate before this time.”
The new research has now pushed back the region’s hydroclimate record a further 7 million years, in the process revealing much earlier “recurrent humid periods characterized by increased water availability and vegetation cover.”
The caves selected for the study, located in the Al-Sulb Plateau, northeast of Riyadh, had been identified by the Saudi Geological Survey.
For “conservation reasons,” the paper gives only the general locations of the caves. However, the precise coordinates are available to some professional organizations and researchers from the Saudi Heritage Commission and the Saudi Geological Survey.
The story told by the 22 speleothems collected from the seven cave systems, all found within a 10 km radius, is an extraordinary one. Analysis of the samples has revealed a series of humid episodes over four distinct periods — between 0.86 and 1.37 million years ago (Ma), 2.01 and 2.29 Ma, 3.16 and 4.10 Ma, and 6.25 and 7.44 Ma.
This last humid episode occurred during what geologists classify as the Late Miocene. This is the period from which numerous fossils found further south, in the UAE, date — the remains of animals such as elephants, hippopotamuses, crocodiles, antelopes, hyenas and large carnivores, including saber-toothed cats, which have been unearthed in the Western Region of the emirate of Abu Dhabi.
These animals flourished there, according to a summary of decades of research published in 2012, thanks to “a very large river system flowing slowly through the area, along which was flourishing vegetation, including large trees.”
That river system may well have flowed from the interior of Arabia — and the fresh evidence from the caves northeast of Riyadh suggests the possibility that it was rainfall here that fed it.
“There is evidence in Arabia of rivers in the past, and certainly in the UAE fossils have been found where a river channel once ran,” said Markowska.
“But rivers can have very distant origins and the big thing about our paper is that for the first time we were able to determine that there was rainfall specifically in the center of the desert — evidence of actual rainfall in that area, rather than humidity from rivers that were sourced from distant locations.
“Before now, we knew a little bit about what was going on in the south of Arabia, that there were numerous humid phases going back over the past 1.1 million years. But we’ve been able to push that back to 8 million years, and this is for the center of the desert, where there was really no information before.”
The importance of this discovery is highlighted by the vast well of international specialist knowledge upon which the study drew. This is reflected in the list of the paper’s 31 co-authors, who include researchers and specialists from universities in the UK, Germany, Switzerland, Australia and the US.
It also includes the College of Tourism and Archaeology at King Saud University in Riyadh, the Kingdom’s Heritage Commission, Geotourism Department and the Saudi Geological Survey.
The paper thanks Prince Badr bin Abdullah bin Farhan Al-Saud, the Saudi minister of culture, for giving his permission for the research to be carried out, and acknowledges the vital role of the Heritage Commission in providing logistical and technical field support.
So far, as the paper makes clear, the “vertebrate fossil record of Arabia is scant,” with remains found only in two principal locations: The sandstone and mudstone Baynunah Formation in the UAE and the Nefud Desert in northwestern Saudi Arabia.
The fossils in the Nefud are “only” about 500,000 years old, and 6 million years younger than those from the Baynunah Formation, currently the only site where animal remains dating from the Late Miocene have been found.
But, said Markowska, the lack of fossil evidence from the same period in central Arabia “doesn’t necessarily mean there wasn’t fauna there at that time, but only that we haven’t found them yet.”
And, as the paper concludes, “considering our findings, it seems probable that movements between Africa and Eurasia would have taken place through the Arabian Peninsula, which, during humid phases, was likely characterized by well-watered grasslands and woodlands.”
Many of the animal species identified from fossilized remains in the UAE “would have been well suited for life in (central) Arabia during the wet episodes identified in our speleothem record. The scant fossil record aside, we suggest that Arabia probably acted as a hitherto unrecognized but important crossroad for biogeographic exchange between Africa and Eurasia over the past 8 million years.”
The researchers add that “the nature of these exchanges, and the exact role of Arabia in these, may only be elucidated with an improved fossil record.”
“We have been able to identify these humid periods, and to identify what the dominant mechanisms for causing them were — basically, more moisture coming up from the south, during monsoon seasons. But we’re also very interested in this vegetation story.”
As speleothems grow, “they trap tiny amounts of pollen within their structure, and now we’re going to see if we can extract some ancient pollen from the speleothems, which is a technique we specialize in at Northumbria.”
This is a painstaking effort, “which involves a lot of microscope work. You extract the material, put it on a microscope slide and then count and identify the different pollen grains you find. I work with other colleagues who are experts on (ancient) pollen, and together I think we should be able to unwrap this other side of the story.”
Source: Www.Arabnews.Com
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Cardinals congregate in Rome to elect new Pope after death of Francis at 88: Who they are and what they do
Apr 27, 2025
Cardinals from all over the world have begun convening in Rome to prepare to hold a conclave to select a successor for Pope Francis, who passed away on Monday at the age of 88. As the Catholic Church stands at a pivotal transition, eyes turn to the men who will eventually select its new leader — but what is a cardinal, anyway?
A cardinal, from the Latin cardinalis, meaning "principal", is one of the top officials of the Catholic Church, appointed by the pope to help govern. Most of the important dicasteries, the equivalent of government ministries within the Vatican, are led by cardinals. They have the official title of "Cardinal of the Holy Roman Church."
Organized into the College of Cardinals, they have a dean — now the 91-year-old Italian Giovanni Battista Re — and constitute the pinnacle of Catholic leadership. Although cardinal is a title more than a defined position, a majority of cardinals are bishops stationed in various parts of the world, and some reside in Rome, exercising important posts within the Curia, the Church's central government.
Of the 252 cardinals that exist today, only those below the age of 80, or "cardinal electors," are actually allowed to cast a vote for a new pope. There are 135 such electors.
The conclave is convened within the Sistine Chapel where the election happens under strict ceremonial and secrecy that has not greatly changed over the centuries. Once the cardinals have finished conducting the mourning ceremonies for Francis, the conclave will commence.
Cardinals are not appointed; they are "created" by a unique papal bull. The word, derived from Roman usage, means that the recipient is promoted in rank because of his individual merits, not because he is assigned to an empty office.
Under Vatican regulations, the pope may create cardinals from among men who are "truly outstanding in doctrine, virtue, piety and prudence in practical matters."
Cardinals can be identified easily by their scarlet red vestments — a color formerly emblematic of the power of the Roman Senate, now symbolizing the blood of Christ and readiness to die for the Church.
The appointment of cardinals is not only a religious choice but also a very political one. Each pope exercises his appointing power to determine the future of the Church.
Pope Francis significantly increased the College of Cardinals by appointing men from the "peripheries" — areas historically underrepresented by Rome — in order to make the Church more representative of the global, worldwide nature of Catholicism and to influence the election of his successor.
In spite of their standing, the privileges cardinals once took for granted have been progressively eroded. Cardinals — who are formally addressed as "Eminence" — are just below the pope and can say Mass in any church outside Rome. They also have the right to be interred inside churches.
But dramatic changes started coming into effect after the Second Vatican Council, which took away cardinals' indulgences like private train compartments and throne rooms in their houses.
Pope Francis took it a step further: in 2021, he directed a reduction in cardinals' salaries to compensate for losses incurred due to the coronavirus pandemic, and in 2023, he abolished the tradition of providing them rent-free apartments within Vatican City.
As the world observes Rome, attention has shifted to these influential leaders — who they are, how they were selected, and how they will define the next chapter of the Catholic Church.
Source: Times Of India
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India
‘We are united against terrorism’: Maler kotla sends out strong message of communal harmony
by Raakhi Jagga
April 27, 2025
Amid stray incidents of harassment of Kashmiri students in Punjab’s Kharar and Dera Bassi areas after the Pahalgam terror attack, a strong message of communal harmony came from Malerkotla — the only Muslim-majority district of the state.
A candlelight march was organised in Malerkotla on Friday evening, featuring participation from people of various backgrounds and faiths. The event was initiated by the residents of Malerkotla, who came together as a united community to walk in solidarity.
Ankur Yakhmi, former BJP councillor and one of the organisers, said, “Terrorism has no religion… the call was purely non-political, and AAP MLA Jameel-ur-Rehman, former IAS and PCS officers, members of mandir committees, Muslim community and people from all walks came together… we all are united at this hour.”
Nadim Anwar Khan, a descendant of Malerkotla’s Nawab Sher Mohammad Khan and a participant in the march, told The Indian Express, “The candle march was organised to send out a message that we all are united against terrorism. Punjab has always set an example of communal harmony, and we continue to spread that message even today. The ones who kill others can never be called Muslims. Although we did see some stray incidents of harassment in Punjab, they were quickly brought under control. This march is a reminder that people of all religions live peacefully in Punjab, especially in Malerkotla.”
He added,” A narrative is being created to spread hatred against a community after this terror attack…hence the idea behind the candle march was that we all are united and standing tall with each other. We are proud that one of the victims, Adil Hussain, laid down his life to protect tourists..and the way taxi drivers and pony riders have helped many tourists is commendable. They have stood by the ‘Ganga Jamuni Tehzeeb of our country.”
Former IAS officer Gurloveleen Singh Sidhu, Tarsem Singh Bhudan (president of the Ahrtiya Association of Malerkotla), members of the Kali Mata Mandir Committee, and many others participated in the march, which took place from 7 pm to 8 pm across the town.
Source: Indianexpress.Com
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Pahalgam tragedy: Are unresolved questions of Partition reflected in attack, asks Mani Shankar Aiyar
27 April 2025
Veteran Congress leader Mani Shankar Aiyar on Saturday (April 26, 2025) wondered whether the Pahalgam terror attack was a result of unresolved questions of the Partition. Addressing a book release function in New Delhi, the former Union Minister said the question that was posed to the country then and faced it today was whether Muslims in India felt accepted, cherished and celebrated.
"Many people almost prevented Partition, but it happened because there were differences in value systems and assessments of the nature of India's nationhood and its civilisational inheritance between people such as Gandhi, Pandit Nehru, Jinnah and many other Muslims who did not agree with Jinnah. But the fact is that the Partition happened and till today we are living with the consequences of that Partition. Is this how we should be living? Is that the unresolved questions of the Partition reflected in the terrible tragedy... in Pahalgam on April 22," he said.
Source: Www.Thehindu.Com
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Mosque Announcement Sparks Communal Tension In Jhalawar’s Dug Town
Apr 27, 2025
Kota: Police have launched an investigation into a controversial announcement made from a mosque's loudspeaker in Dug town, Jhalawar district, that led to communal tension after the murder of a wedding photographer in a road rage.
The announcement, captured in a one-minute video that went viral after internet services were restored Friday-Saturday midnight, allegedly called for Muslims to gather in the market area and contained inflammatory remarks.
Dug police's Station House Officer Pawan Kumar confirmed the video's authenticity and stated that a case has been registered under section 299 of BNS against an unidentified person for "deliberate and malicious acts intended to outrage religious feelings."
Violence had erupted Thursday night following the murder of the 20-year-old photographer while he was covering a wedding ceremony in Dug town. Earlier that evening, a couple of youth had confronted the photographer when the two parties' vehicles had a minor accident. Following the murder, the late-night announcement from the mosque drew a large crowd to Dug's market area, requiring police intervention to disperse the gathering.
Source: Indianexpress.Com
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Indian Army Nursing College Website Hacked: Menacing Messages Inciting Religious Animosity
BY : Cassian Baliarsingh
27 Apr 2025
An unsettling cyber breach has struck the Indian Army Nursing College, as its website was hacked on Friday to display menacing messages inciting religious animosity. The page exhibited text in both Urdu and English, stating, 'You are hacked by Team Insane PK.'
The message ominously declared, 'Our religion and customs are vastly different, and that strengthens us... The two-nation theory was not just an idea but is the truth... We are Muslims, you are Hindus... Allah is with us... Your religion will not be your salvation; instead, it will cause your demise... we are simply superior and more powerful.'
Meanwhile, Khawaja Asif, Pakistan's Defence Minister, has acknowledged the nation's historical support of extremist groups, as reported by Asian News International (ANI). In a video widely shared, Asif divulged during an interview with Sky News presenter Yalda Hakim, 'We have been performing this dirty work for the United States for roughly three decades... as well as for the west, including the UK. This was a mistake, leading to our suffering, and that's why you're saying this now. If we had not participated in the war against the Soviet Union and subsequently after 9/11, Pakistan's history would have remained unblemished.'
Source: Odishatv.In
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BJP MLA Balmukund Acharya Booked After Protest Outside Mosque Sparks Tension In Jaipur
27 Apr 2025
The police in Jaipur have registered a criminal case against Bharatiya Janata Party MLA Balmukund Acharya on charges of hurting religious sentiments after he allegedly led a sloganeering crowd outside the Jama Masjid in the Walled City on Friday night, reported The Indian Express.
Acharya, accompanied by BJP leaders and workers, allegedly shouted offensive slogans, held up saffron flags and torches, and put up posters on the mosque premises during a protest against the Pahalgam terror attack.
Hafiz Mansoor Ali Khan, a member of the Jama Masjid committee, said that Acharya entered the premises around 8:30 pm, placed a “Pakistan Murdabad” poster at the gate and shouted “Jai Shri Ram”.
The incident, captured on security cameras, triggered a gathering of nearly 1,500 people from the Hindu and Muslim communities at the nearby Badi Chaupar area. Congress MLAs Rafiq Khan and Amin Kagzi, along with Police Commissioner Biju George Joseph, intervened to prevent the situation from escalating.
Source: Scroll.In
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Pakistan
Threatening calls to two hotels traced to neighbouring country: Islamabad police
Munawer Azeem
April 27, 2025
ISLAMABAD: Two threatening calls made to two upscale hotels situated within Islamabad’s heavily-fortified Red Zone have been traced to an international number associated with a neighbouring eastern country, Dawn has learnt.
According to police sources, both the calls were placed from the same number (+009*099*****82) directly to the hotels earlier this week. The caller warned hotel staff about the alleged presence of a vehicle laden with explosives on the premises.
In the first call, the caller informed the hotel staff that an explosive-laden vehicle bearing registration number B**-7** had been parked in the hotel’s parking area.
Source: Www.dawn.Com
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India Suffers From ‘Insecurity Syndrome’: Minister For Special Initiatives
Bakhtawar Mian
April 27, 2025
ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Ahsan Iqbal has said that India suffers from a severe insecurity complex, despite its larger size and population, and blames Pakistan for every incident that occurs there.
In a statement on Saturday, the minister said that despite having a population seven times larger than Pakistan, an expansive landmass and centuries of statehood experience, India continues to suffer from an insecurity syndrome.
In contrast, he added, Pakistan, with just 77 years of statehood and a comparatively smaller geography and population, exhibits greater composure and maturity.
Referring to the tragic Jaffar Express terrorist attack in Balochistan, Ahsan Iqbal noted that Pakistan responded in a responsible and mature manner by acknowledging internal security lapses and committing to addressing them, even while credible evidence pointed towards foreign involvement.
Conversely, he observed, India’s reaction to the Pahalgam tragedy in held Kashmir was impulsive and reactive, and rather than acknowledging its own security shortcomings, it hastily shifted blame onto Pakistan without any substantiated evidence.
Source: Www.dawn.Com
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https://www.dawn.com/news/1906855/india-suffers-from-insecurity-syndrome-ahsan-iqbal
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Concern In AJK: Rise In The Water Level In River Jhelum At Muzaffarabad
Khalid Hasnain
April 27, 2025
LAHORE/MUZAFFARABAD: An unusual surge in the water level of River Jhelum — attributed by officials to snowmelt but feared by locals as flash floods released by India after suspending the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) — has triggered panic among the residents of Muzaffarabad and surrounding areas.
“A rise in the water level in River Jhelum at Muzaffarabad was recorded, leaving residents panicked. They thought it was a flash flood released by India upstream,” a local resident told Dawn. “People kept watching the river, trying to check if any debris had come, like it does during flood seasons, but they couldn’t find anything,” he added.
A daily water situation report issued by the Water and Power Development Authority (Wapda) also confirmed an increase in water flow levels in River Jhelum. However, an officer from the Met Department’s Flood Forecasting Division (FFD) dismissed the concerns, stating the rise was part of usual seasonal flows.
“Typically, these days we see up to 50,000 cusecs in River Jhelum. As of now (April 26), we have 47,000 cusecs, which doesn’t even qualify as a low flood in the river,” Akhtar Mahmood, the FFD deputy director, explained to Dawn on Saturday. “A low flood in River Jhelum ranges between 75,000 and 110,000 cusecs,” he added.
Source: Www.dawn.Com
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https://www.dawn.com/news/1906856/concern-in-ajk-as-flows-surge-in-river-jhelum
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PkMAP protests Afghans’ repatriation in Quetta
Saleem Shahid
April 27, 2025
QUETTA: Workers and supporters of the Pashtoonkhwa Milli Awami Party (PkMAP) took out a rally in support of Afghan refugees and urged the government of Pakistan to stop their ‘forced repatriation’.
The participants of the rally, led by PkMAP Secretary General Abdul Rahim Ziaratwal and Dr Hamid Achakzai, gathered in Quetta Metropolitan Corporation compound before the rally. They chanted slogans against the deportation of Afghan refugees and Peca Act.
The rally after reaching Manan Chowk converted into a public meeting which was addressed by Mr Ziaratwal, Dr Abdul Hamid Khan Achakzai, Abdul Haq Abdal, and others.
Source: Www.dawn.Com
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https://www.dawn.com/news/1906860/pkmap-protests-afghans-repatriation-in-quetta
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Two more suspects in custody killed during ‘encounter’ with police in Attock
April 27, 2025
TAXILA: In back-to-back “shootouts” by Attock Police, two more suspects who were in police custody for their alleged involvement in Friday’s four different robbery and snatching cases were killed during a “shootout” with police in the early hours of Saturday, police sources claimed.
Again, this time, the police spokesperson claimed that the suspect was killed by his own accomplices during an exchange of fire. According to the spokesperson, police were bringing in for recovery an accused named Ehsan Ullah and Bilal Khan, who were arrested for their involvement in four different robberies and snatching cases on Friday, their companions riding on motorcycles attacked the police party to get their accomplice released from police custody. In retaliation, both suspects were injured by the firing of their accomplices and died on the way to hospital.
The police teams were formed to arrest the fleeing attackers. “The police officials came under fire, but remained unhurt due to precautionary measures,” the police claimed, adding that the official vehicles also remained safe during the shootout.
Source: Www.dawn.Com
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South Asia
Pak Defence Minister seeks stronger ties with Bangladesh
April 26, 2025,
Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif has said he looked forward to “deepening” engagement in various sectors with Bangladesh and said both Islamabad and Dhaka are keenly working for furthering economic, political, and cultural cooperation.
The event, hosted by Bangladesh High Commissioner Muhammad Iqbal Hussain Khan, came days after Bangladesh and Pakistan held a foreign secretary-level Foreign Office Consultation (FOC) in Dhaka after a gap of nearly 15 years.
Asif, referring to the cordial ties between the two countries, said that both capitals were keenly working for furthering economic, political, and cultural cooperation, Geo News said.
“We value our relations with Bangladesh and look forward to deepening our engagement in various sectors,” he said as he extended greetings to the government and people of Bangladesh.
Source: Www.Cnbctv18.Com
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https://www.cnbctv18.com/world/pak-defence-minister-seeks-stronger-ties-with-bangladesh-19594991.htm
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India’s Trans-Shipment Revocation Should Be A Wake-Up Call For Bangladesh
ATM Nazrul Islam
Apr 27, 2025
On April 8, 2025, India revoked the transhipment facility that allowed Bangladeshi exporters to use Indian land routes and airports—especially Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport—for exporting goods to third countries. The facility had been extended to Bangladesh on June 29, 2020, enabling Bangladeshi exporters to move goods via Indian Territory for faster and more cost-effective international shipment. It is speculated that this was done to send a political message, but according to the Indian government, they withdrew the facility based on Indian exporters' demand.
The sudden revocation came as a blow to many Bangladeshi exporters who had become increasingly reliant on the Indian routes due to persistent inefficiencies and high costs at home, especially at Dhaka's Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (HSIA). Despite all the hue and cry over this issue, it should be noted that only 18-20 percent of Bangladesh's air exports were routed through India. Approximately, 20-30 trucks used to travel from Bangladesh to Delhi each day via the Benapole-Petrapole land route but many exporters did not mind transporting goods almost 1,900 km overland through India for several reasons.
Among the key reasons were the higher cost and congestion at HSIA. While it costs $3 per kilogramme (kg) to ship garments from HSIA to European destinations, the same costs only $1.2 via Delhi. There are some additional charges as well such as handling charges, scanning charges, daily warehouse charges, etc. Besides, HSIA's cargo handling capacity has already been exceeded causing tremendous congestion. Operational inefficiencies also occurred due to delays from the frequent breakdown of explosive detection scanners (EDS), lack of ground handling proficiency, frequent congestion at cargo terminals and Biman's monopolistic attitude among other factors. Goods were often stuck for days, jeopardising shipment deadlines and causing huge losses for exporters.
India's decision must serve as a turning point for Bangladesh's export logistics strategy. The dependence on a foreign nation for transshipment or the reliance on foreign carriers for cargo export exposes a structural vulnerability in the country's trade infrastructure. As a part of the solution, the third terminal must be immediately made fully operational. According to the Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh, once operational, the third terminal will increase handling capacity from the existing 200,000 metric tonnes to over 500,000 metric tonnes annually. This should be considered as the most immediate fix and must be expedited with urgency.
Besides, Shah Amanat and Osmani international airports should also be equipped with modern cargo terminals, customs clearance systems, and scanners to decentralise cargo movement and reduce pressure on Dhaka. Establishing digital customs clearance system, automating documentation, and introducing AI-based cargo routing can cut delays and enhance traceability. The rates of cargo transporting and other handling charges should be brought down to reasonable amounts.
Source: Www.Thedailystar.Net
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Many former US allies in Afghanistan live in hiding, fearing persecution, says Middle East Institute
By Fidel Rahmati
April 26, 2025
The Middle East Institute has reported that many Afghan former translators and assistants who worked with the U.S. military in Afghanistan continue to live in hiding, fearing retaliation from the Taliban. These individuals, who assisted U.S. forces during the war, are still facing the threat of harassment and violence. Despite the claims by the Trump administration that the situation in Afghanistan is conducive to the return of Afghan refugees, many are still unable to safely go back.
As of early 2025, around 110,000 Afghan refugees remain in Afghanistan, while 90,000 others are stranded in third-party countries. These individuals have already undergone long and rigorous vetting processes for resettlement but continue to wait for visa approval or relocation. The Trump administration took a significant step by suspending the Afghan refugee resettlement program, further complicating the fate of these vulnerable people.
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has asserted that conditions in Afghanistan are stable enough for refugees to return. In April, the DHS officially revoked Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for thousands of Afghan nationals, including those who had previously been granted refugee status. This decision followed consultations between DHS officials and the U.S. State Department, who concluded that Afghanistan no longer met the legal criteria for offering protection to Afghan refugees.
Source: Www.khaama.Com
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Islamic Emirate Expresses Grief Over Explosion in Iran’s Bandar Abbas
2025-04-27
KABUL(BNA): The Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan, through a statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, has expressed its profound sorrow and solidarity following the devastating explosion in the city of Bandar Abbas, Iran, which resulted in hundreds of casualties, including martyrs and wounded.
The statement conveyed the deepest condolences and unwavering support of the Afghan government and nation to the people and government of Iran during this tragic incident. It affirmed Afghanistan’s complete sympathy, solidarity, and unity with Iran in the face of this sorrowful event.
The Islamic Emirate emphasized its shared grief with the Iranian nation and reiterated its stance of standing alongside the bereaved families and the Islamic Republic of Iran in this time of immense loss.
Source: Www.bakhtarnews.Af
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https://www.bakhtarnews.af/en/islamic-emirate-expresses-grief-over-explosion-in-irans-bandar-abbas/
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Afghan migrants in Limbo as US immigration cases remain suspended
By Fidel Rahmati
April 26, 2025
Many Afghan nationals with pending U.S. immigration cases are voicing frustration over their uncertain status in third countries. These individuals are calling on U.S. President Joe Biden to address their plight and expedite the processing of their immigration files.
These migrants expressed hope that their immigration cases would be reexamined and urged for a fair and comprehensive decision for all applicants under the program.
It has been reported that the transfer of Afghan nationals with pending immigration cases to the U.S. has been suspended for the past three months, leaving many in a state of limbo. This delay has left countless individuals stranded and uncertain about their future.
On April 25, Axios reported that the U.S. Department of Homeland Security emailed over 200 Afghan refugees in Iowa, urging them to leave the country immediately. This added pressure has heightened the sense of instability among Afghan migrants waiting for their relocation.
Human rights activists, such as Ehsan Ahmadzai, have called for the U.S. government to reassess its policies regarding Afghan migrant cases. They stress the importance of not leaving Afghan nationals in a state of uncertainty, especially after their approval for relocation.
Source: Www.khaama.Com
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https://www.khaama.com/afghan-migrants-in-limbo-as-us-immigration-cases-remain-suspended/
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More than 1,100 Afghan families deported by Iran, Pakistan in one day, ministry
April 27, 2025
KABUL: The Ministry of Refugees and Repatriations said in a statement Saturday that 1,105 Afghan migrant families have been forcibly deported by the Pakistani and Iranian governments in the past one day.
“1,105 Afghan families returned to the country, including 344 families via Torkham border in Nangarhar, 250 families via Spin Boldak in Kandahar, 91 families via Pul-e-Abrisham in Nimroz, 3 families via Angor-e-Ada in Paktika, 27 families via Bahramcha in Helmand, and 390 families via Islam Qala in Herat,” the statement said.
Previously, the Ministry of Refugees and Repatriations reported that 98 Afghan migrants who had been detained in Pakistan were released from prison and returned to Afghanistan. Recently, Pakistan and Iran have accelerated the forced deportation of Afghan migrants, significantly impacting the lives of many who have been living in these neighboring countries for years. This move has created a humanitarian challenge for Afghanistan as thousands of returnees are left to face the hardships of reintegration into their home country.
It should be said that the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan (IEA) has been working to address the challenges faced by these returnees, providing necessary assistance such as cash support, shelter, healthcare, and other essential services to help ease their reintegration process.
Source: Thekabultimes.Com
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WHO: Afghanistan’s Malaria progress at risk despite efforts
By Fidel Rahmati
April 26, 2025
The World Health Organization (WHO) marked World Malaria Day on April 25, acknowledging Afghanistan’s significant efforts to reduce the disease. However, it warned that these gains are under threat.
In its message, the WHO emphasized its commitment to combating malaria in Afghanistan through an equitable approach. It aims to provide healthcare services to vulnerable groups, particularly migrants, pregnant women, and children.
The organization stressed the importance of investing in the eradication of malaria in Afghanistan, calling for increased resources and focus on effective tools to combat the disease.
Source: Www.khaama.Com
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https://www.khaama.com/who-afghanistans-malaria-progress-at-risk-despite-efforts/
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Arab World
Saudi leaders offer condolences to Iran over Bandar Abbas port blast
April 27, 2025
RIYADH: Saudi Arabia's leaders have offered their condolences to Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian over a deadly explosion at the Shahid Rajaee port, near Bandar Abbas, that killed at least 25 people and injured more than 700 others.
King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman sent a cable of condolences to the Iranian president, families of the victims, and the Iranian people.
They also wished the injured a speedy recovery, according to the Saudi Press Agency.
Source: Www.Arabnews.Com
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https://www.arabnews.com/node/2598616/saudi-arabia
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Saudi Arabia welcomes Palestinian leadership reforms
April 26, 2025
RIYADH: Saudi Arabia on Saturday welcomed recent reform measures announced by the Palestinian leadership, describing them as important steps toward strengthening Palestinian political action.
In a statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Kingdom expressed its support for the creation of new positions within the Palestine Liberation Organization and the State of Palestine, including the appointment of Hussein Al-Sheikh as Vice-Chairman of the Executive Committee of the PLO and Vice-President of the State of Palestine.
The Kingdom affirmed that these reforms would enhance the Palestinian political process and contribute to broader efforts to secure the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people, foremost among them the right to self-determination and the establishment of an independent state along the 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital.
Source: Www.Arabnews.Com
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https://www.arabnews.com/node/2598565/saudi-arabia
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Saudi ministries unite for safe Hajj
Arab News
April 26, 2025
MAKKAH: The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has begun distributing Nusuk cards for the Hajj season, with more than 150,000 cards issued and a daily production capacity of 70,000, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Saturday.
Printed domestically in state-of-the-art facilities under strict quality and security standards, Nusuk cards feature anti-duplication security measures to help personnel verify pilgrims’ identities and legal status.
Each card includes comprehensive pilgrim information, such as accommodation details in Makkah, Madinah and the holy sites, along with contact information for their service provider.
The cards aim to streamline pilgrim guidance and reduce cases of lost pilgrims, while also granting access to enrichment services, the SPA reported.
Printing will continue until all Hajj permits and visas are issued. International pilgrims will receive their cards on arrival through their service companies.
Domestic pilgrims can collect their Nusuk cards from service companies at designated gathering points before the Hajj season, the SPA added.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Interior, through the General Directorate of Public Security, apprehended individuals engaged in fraudulent activities by posting fake and misleading Hajj campaign ads on social media.
The ads falsely offered pilgrim housing and transportation within the holy sites, Hajj on behalf of others, sacrificial animal services, and Hajj bracelet sales.
Source: Www.Arabnews.Com
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https://www.arabnews.com/node/2598559/saudi-arabia
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Jazan municipality plants seedlings for green goals
Arab News
April 26, 2025
RIYADH: Jazan municipality in Samtah governorate planted 100 diverse seedlings in Hittin Garden during Environment Week, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
Held annually from April 20-26, the week promotes environmental awareness and sustainable practices. The 2025 theme, “Our Environment is a Treasure,” highlights the Kingdom’s efforts to conserve natural resources.
Nasser bin Ahmed Atif, mayor of Samtah governorate, said the event aimed to raise community awareness about protecting the environment and enhancing environmental education.
Source: Www.Arabnews.Com
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https://www.arabnews.com/node/2598558/saudi-arabia
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Europe
Plans for an ‘urgently needed’ Muslim community centre in Winnersh refused
April 27, 2025
Plans for an ‘urgently needed’ Muslim place of worship and community centre have been refused over parking concerns.
Muslim Community Connect Wokingham wanted to convert Unit 4 of Winnersh Fields into a building for ‘Islamic education, worship and community’.
Plans submitted to Wokingham Borough Council argued that a place of worship for the Muslim community would contribute towards their social inclusion.
Residents would be able to access the centre via public transport given the proximity to Winnersh Triangle station and nearby bus stops.
Jawad Chowdry wrote to the council: “The Muslim population in the borough has grown over the last few years and this space would provide a much needed place of worship and community space.
“There are many Muslim working professionals and business owners living in Wokingham and this facility would go a long way to support a thriving, diverse community.”
Source: Wokingham.Today
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https://wokingham.today/plans-for-an-urgently-needed-muslim-community-centre-in-winnersh-refused/
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Police manhunt continues after fatal mosque attack in south of France
27/04/2025
French police are continuing their hunt this weekend for a man suspected of killing a Muslim worshipper inside a mosque in the south of the country, while allegedly filming the brutal attack on a mobile phone and shouting insults against Islam.
While the motive for the crime remains unclear, security camera footage reportedly shows the suspect hurling insults at "Allah" – the Arabic word for God.
Posting on X, the Grand Mosque of Paris condemned the attack, calling it an "abominable act of extreme gravity committed inside a mosque, a house of God.
"We call on the authorities to take stock of this crime, to quickly shed light on its particularly worrying motives and circumstances, and to find the perpetrator, who is being investigated for murder," it added.
French Prime Minister François Bayrou has denounced the stabbing, saying: "We stand with the victim's loved ones, with the believers who are so shocked. State resources are mobilised to ensure the killer is apprehended and punished".
Source: Www.rfi.fr
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Knifeman hunted after fatal stabbing at mosque in south of France
Richard Henshell
27 April 2025
A man is on the run after fatally stabbing a worshipper at a mosque in Gard in the south of France, on Friday morning (April 25). The public prosecutor fears he may strike again.
The suspect, who was not thought to have been to the mosque before, stabbed his victim multiple times - reports suggest 40 to 50 knife wounds - before fleeing.
The body of the victim, whose identity has not been released, was discovered a couple of hours later by other worshippers arriving for Friday prayers.
Source: Www.Connexionfrance.Com
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Mideast
Iran ‘extremely cautious’ about success of nuclear talks with the US
26 Apr 2025
Iran and the United States have agreed to continue nuclear talks next week, both sides said, as Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said he was “extremely cautious” about the potential success of the negotiations aimed at resolving a decades-long nuclear standoff.
US President Donald Trump has seemed confident in reaching a new pact with Iran that would guarantee Tehran does not make a nuclear bomb.
On Saturday, Araghchi and Trump’s Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff held a third round of indirect talks in Oman’s capital, Muscat, through Omani mediators for about six hours. This comes a week after a second round in Rome that both sides described as constructive.
“The negotiations are extremely serious and technical … there are still differences, both on major issues and details,” Araghchi told Iranian state TV.
“There is seriousness and determination on both sides … However, our optimism about the success of the talks remains extremely cautious.”
Source: Www.aljazeera.Com
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Iran and the US hold hours of expert talks in Oman over Tehran’s rapidly advancing nuclear program
By JON GAMBRELL
April 27, 2025
MUSCAT, Oman (AP) — Iran and the United States held in-depth negotiations in Oman over Tehran’s rapidly advancing nuclear program on Saturday, ending the discussions with a promise for more talks and perhaps another high-level meeting next weekend.
The talks ran for several hours in Muscat, the mountain-wrapped capital of this sultanate on the eastern edge of the Arabian Peninsula.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi told state television after the talks that the parties exchanged written points throughout the day in discussions that he described as “very serious and work-focused.”
“This time, the negotiations were much more serious than in the past, and we gradually entered into deeper and more detailed discussions,” he said. “We have moved somewhat away from broader, general discussions — though it is not the case that all disagreements have been resolved. Differences still exist both on major issues and on the details.”
“This latest round of direct and indirect discussions lasted over four hours,” the official said on condition of anonymity to discuss the talks. “There is still much to do, but further progress was made on getting to a deal. We agreed to meet again soon, in Europe, and we thank our Omani partners for facilitating these talks.”
Omani Foreign Minister Badr al-Busaidi, who has mediated the two previous round of talks in Muscat and Rome, offered a positive note at the end of Saturday’s negotiations.
Iran and the U.S. “identified a shared aspiration to reach agreement based on mutual respect and enduring commitments,” al-Busaidi posted on X. “Core principles, objectives and technical concerns were all addressed. Talks will continue next week with a further high level meeting provisionally scheduled for May 3.”
Source: Apnews.Com
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https://apnews.com/article/iran-us-nuclear-talks-oman-f2e4ecf49c62c11a0240153d7f900d0d
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U.S. says "further progress was made" in third round of nuclear talks with Iran
Barak Ravid
April 27, 2025
The U.S. and Iran concluded on Saturday the third round of nuclear talks and agreed to meet again on May 3, said Omani foreign minister Badr Al-Busaidi, who is mediating between the parties.
Why it matters: The talks in Muscat on Saturday were the first time the parties dived into the technical details of a possible nuclear deal, especially the limitations the U.S. wants to impose on Iran's nuclear program and the sanctions Iran wants the U.S. to lift.
"The talks in Muscat were positive and productive. There is still much to do, but further progress was made on getting to a deal," a senior U.S. official said in a statement sent to reporters.
Source: www.axios.Com
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https://www.axios.com/2025/04/26/us-iran-nuclear-talks-meet-next-week
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Huge blast at key Iranian port kills 25 and injures 800
27-04-2025
Frances Mao
At least 25 people have been killed and 800 injured in a massive explosion at one of Iran's key ports, authorities say.
The blast took place at Shahid Rajaee, the country's largest commercial port, near the southern city of Bandar Abbas on Saturday morning.
It blew out windows and roofs of nearby buildings and destroyed cars. Residents reported feeling the impact of the blast up to 50km (31 miles) away. Six people remain unaccounted for, state media reports.
Videos verified by the BBC show a fire growing in intensity before a huge explosion, with people subsequently fleeing the blast and others lying wounded on roads surrounded by smoking debris.
"The entire warehouse was filled with smoke, dust and ashes. I don't remember if I went under the table or was thrown there by the blast," one person who was in the area told Iranian state TV.
Aerial footage showed at least three areas ablaze and Iran's interior minister later confirmed that the fire was spreading from one container to another. Schools and offices in the region have been ordered to remain closed on Sunday.
Source: Www.bbc.Com
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https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cx251yyvwr3o
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Palestinian Islamic Jihad sends condolence message to Iran
Apr 27, 2025
This Palestinian movement emphasized that Iran, with its wise leadership and resilient nation, can overcome this calamity.
A powerful explosion at Shahid Rajaee port in southern Iran has caused widespread damage and casualties, with emergency teams rushing to the scene to bring the situation under control.
“Unfortunately, between 700 and 750 people have been injured so far,” he added, noting that 212 of the injured had received outpatient treatment.
The director general of Hormozgan’s crisis management department said the explosion was extremely strong, but the cause has not yet been determined.
Source: En.Mehrnews.Com
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https://en.mehrnews.com/news/231102/Palestinian-Islamic-Jihad-sends-condolence-messages-to-Iran
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Steadfastness & logical reasoning, the lesson and approach of infallible Imams
Apr 27, 2025
An excerpt from the speech delivered by Imam Khamenei after a mourning ceremony that was held on the anniversary of Imam Jafar Sadiq’s (pbuh) martyrdom on April 24, 2025
During the time of Imam Sadiq (pbuh), it was divinely predestined — though not as an inevitable, predetermined decree — that a change would take place in favor of the Imams of Guidance (pbut). This fact can be understood from numerous hadith. In one narration from Imam Sadiq (pbuh), he stated, "Indeed, God decreed this matter for the year 70." Almighty God had predestined this matter — that is, the matter of Imamate in the true sense of the word — for the year 70 AH in His divine plan.
You see, when Imam Hassan Mujtaba (pbuh) signed a peace treaty with Muawiyah, some people came and complained or objected. The Imam said, "You don’t know. Perhaps this is a trial for you and an enjoyment for a time." [That is,] this [situation] was temporary. So in Imam Hassan’s (pbuh) words, he indicated that this event — that is, the dominance of disbelief and hypocrisy — wasn’t going to be permanent. According to the divine decree, it was to be temporary. Until when? Until the year 70 AH.
So according to this narration, it had been decreed that whoever was alive from the Ahl al-Bayt in the year 70 AH would rise up and take control of the government, and the true Imamate would be established. Then the Imam said, "But when Hussain (pbuh) was killed, God’s anger with the people of the earth increased, so He delayed this until the year 140 AH."
In other words, the effect of the tragedy in Karbala, the people's disregard for religious principles, and their turning away was that this divine predestination was postponed until the year 140 AH. The year 140 AH corresponds to the time of Imam Sadiq (pbuh). He passed away in the year 148 AH. The Shia knew this. That is, the distinguished figures among the Shia were aware of this. For example, in one hadith, Zurarah — one of the close companions [of Imam Sadiq (pbuh)] — told his friends, "You won’t see anyone on this pulpit except Jafar." A’wad refers to the structure of the pulpit — the pulpit of the caliphate. So he was saying, "I see that Jafar will sit on this pulpit.” That's how it was.
Source: English.khamenei.Ir
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https://english.khamenei.ir/news/11633/Steadfastness-logical-reasoning-the-lesson-and-approach-of
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US-Iran nuclear talks signal progress, next round in Europe
Apr 27, 2025
The US and Iran reported signs of progress in talks on a deal over Iran’s nuclear program after what the Iranian foreign minister described as increasingly detailed discussions.
A senior US administration official said the third round of talks since President Donald Trump’s return to the White House was positive and productive, and the two sides agreed to meet again soon in Europe. Readouts from both sides indicated that substantial work remains to be done.
Oman’s Foreign Minister Badr Albusaidi, whose country is facilitating the talks, said in a post on X that “core principles, objectives and technical concerns were all addressed” in the latest discussions.
“This round of negotiations was much more serious than before,” Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi told state television after the talks in Oman’s capital, Muscat. “We gradually entered more detailed, technical discussions.”
Source: Www.Hindustantimes.Com
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Southeast Asia
Linking PAS to WP? Accused of meddling in Singapore’s polls, Iskandar says he’s not even influential at home
By Malay Mail
27 Apr 2025
KUALA LUMPUR, April 27 — PAS treasurer Datuk Iskandar Abdul Samad has denied accusations that he was attempting to influence Singapore’s ongoing general election through his Facebook postings.
In a statement, Iskandar also slammed Singapore government’s attempt to link his Islamist party and the opposition Workers’ Party (WP) — calling it “preposterous and counterproductive”.
“I do not believe my Facebook page is influential even in Malaysia and was shocked when it was blocked and cannot be accessed in the republic,” he posted on Facebook.
“Therefore, I am still wondering what the true intention was, but I hope that it was not to link my party to the opposition as such attempt is preposterous and will be counterproductive.”
Source: Www.Malaymail.Com
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Indonesia's Intelligence Agency BIN Will Move to IKN by June 2025
Riri Rahayu
April 27, 2025
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Deputy Head of the State Intelligence Agency (BIN) Imam Sugianto said that BIN employees will move to the Nusantara Capital City (IKN) in stages starting in the middle of this year. This was conveyed by Imam when meeting the Head of the IKN Authority at IKN Basuki Hadimuljono on Tuesday, April 22, 2025.
"God willing, starting in June," said Imam, quoted from the official statement of the IKN Authority. The plan is for BIN employees to occupy housing in BIN flats (rusun) that are already functional.
Basuki Hadimuljono welcomed the plan. The IKN Authority, he said, will also prepare housing so that BIN employees who move can occupy it starting June 1, 2025.
The plan to move BIN employees to IKN was conveyed amid the uncertainty of the ASN relocation schedule to the new capital city in East Kalimantan. Previously, the Minister of State Apparatus Empowerment and Bureaucratic Reform (Menpan-RB) Rini Widyantini said that there had been no directive from President Prabowo Subianto to bring ASN to the IKN. Her ministry also plans to re-screen ASN who will be transferred.
Source: En.Tempo.Co
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Malaysia pushes for Asean Halal Council at Jakarta talks to boost trade, harmonise certification
27 Apr 2025
KUALA LUMPUR, April 27 — Malaysia has proposed the creation of an Asean Halal Council to strengthen strategic cooperation in the regional halal industry, facilitate the entry of halal products between countries, and boost intra-Asean trade, which has yet to reach its full potential.
Halal Development Corporation (HDC) chairman Azwan Harun said Malaysia made the proposal during the Malaysia-Indonesia halal industry roundtable session in Jakarta on April 22, which was also attended by Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi and the head of Indonesia’s Halal Product Assurance Organizing Agency (BPJPH) Ahmad Haikal Hassan.
“This Asean Halal Council will serve as a platform to streamline trade, expand markets, and harmonise the use of halal logos while also tapping into a regional market of nearly 700 million people,” he told Bernama.
At the conference, both countries also proposed easing the entry of halal products by mutually recognising Malaysian and Indonesian halal certificates without additional procedures or inspections.
Source: Www.Malaymail.Com
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Kedah authorities urge calm after mysterious disease cluster hits 39 students, staff after Yan camp visit
By Malay Mail
27 Apr 2025
ALOR SETAR, April 27 – An infectious disease cluster of unknown origin has been detected among 39 school students and staff in Yan, Kedah health authorities confirmed today.
The Star reported that health officials have been put on alert for patients showing symptoms such as cold, fever, cough, blisters, vomiting, diarrhoea, and red rashes, particularly those linked to a private training facility known as Palas Camp.
“All medical officers must immediately notify the Kedah Health Department if patients display any of the mentioned criteria,” Kedah health committee chairman Mansor Zakaria was quoted saying.
He said the Kedah Health Department was first notified of the cluster involving secondary school students and staff from Kuala Muda district on April 24.
Source: Www.Malaymail.Com
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Abang Johari to promote Sarawak’s semiconductor and renewable energy ambitions in UK, France and UAE visits
27 Apr 2025
KUCHING, April 27 — Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg will lead the state government delegation to visit CSA Catapult Innovation Centre in Newport, United Kingdom (UK) as part of efforts to strengthen collaboration in semiconductor development between the UK and Sarawak.
A statement from the State Premier’s Office said the visit to the innovation centre on Tuesday (April 29) will see the Sarawak Government, through SMD Semiconductor Sdn Bhd, exchange partnership agreement documents with CSA Catapult, Silicon Catalyst and 5G3i Ltd of the UK.
“CSA Catapult is the UK’s authority on compound semiconductor applications and commercialisation, while Silicon Catalyst is a key semiconductor incubator, and 5G3i Ltd is a leading circuit-level artificial intelligence solutions provider in the UK,” it said.
SMD Semiconductor chairman Datuk Seri Wanlizozman Haji Wan Omar, who is also Sarawak’s Financial Secretary, will present a briefing on the Sarawak Semiconductor Roadmap 2030 to the UK semiconductor industry players during the visit.
“The visit to the facility will be capped off with a networking luncheon with representatives from the English, Scottish and Northern Irish governments to strengthen the relationship, particularly in the advancement of compound semiconductors,” it said.
Source: Www.Malaymail.Com
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North America
In 1912, Canada’s first Muslim voter was put on trial — here’s why that story matters today
By Hassam Munir
April 26, 2025
Canadian Muslims today also remember Ahmed Ali Ferran, better known as Peter Baker or “The Arctic Arab.” According to “The Canadian Encyclopedia,” in 1964 Ferran became the first Muslim elected to public office in Canada and possibly in all of North America.
Of Lebanese origin, Ferran built a life in the Northwest Territories as a trader. He developed a close relationship with the Indigenous Peoples of the region and persevered through several instances of discrimination.
In 1964, thanks in large part to the Indigenous vote, Ferran was elected to represent Mackenzie North on the Northwest Territories Council. He served until 1967, during which one of his lasting contributions was a motion to designate Yellowknife as the territorial capital. His memoir titled, “Memoirs of an Arctic Arab,” offers a rare and powerful window into the Canadian Muslim experience in the early 20th century.
With less than a week to go until election day, Canada's five main political parties have released their costed platforms. Canadian Press reporter Dylan Robertson walks through some of what the parties are pitching to voters. (April 26, 2025 / The Canadian Press)
But, we must recognize that despite being one of the fastest-growing communities in Canada, Muslim voter turnout remains remarkably low. Many Muslims still feel disconnected from the political process and are uncertain how to navigate a system that can sometimes seems unfamiliar and unwelcoming.
Source: Www.Thestar.Com
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Judge considers barring AG from prosecuting UM pro-Palestinian protestor cases
By Beenish Ahmed
April 26, 2025
A judge in Ann Arbor heard arguments this week over whether he should order the Michigan attorney general to step aside from prosecuting the cases of seven people arrested during a police raid at a pro-Palestinian encampment at the University of Michigan.
Defense attorneys said Attorney General Dana Nessel acknowledged that she’s perceived as biased against Arab and Muslim people in a separate case, and that admission should disqualify her from overseeing the prosecution of the protesters’ cases as well.
At the heart of the two-hour deliberation Thursday were two paragraphs in a petition filed by the attorney general's office earlier this month seeking a special prosecutor to take over an election fraud case against Hamtramck City Council members. Hamtramck is the only city in the country with an all-Muslim city council.
The petition, filed by Assistant Attorney General and Criminal Bureau Chief Danielle Hagaman-Clark, noted that critics have alleged – “albeit without justification” – that Nessel brought charges against pro-Palestinian protesters at U of M “due to bias against Muslims and/or people of Arab descent.”
Nessel does not harbor anti-Muslim or anti-Arab bias, Hagaman-Clark said, but defense attorneys in the U of M protesters case seized on the assertion that Nessel is perceived as biased to argue that the attorney general should recuse herself from the protesters’ cases as well.
That left Hagaman-Clark backtracking from the assertion, and arguing that the request for a special prosecutor stemmed more from the attorney general’s protest against a specific resolution passed by the Hamtramck City Council members.
That resolution banned the display of nongovernmental flags, including the pride flag, on government buildings. Nessel, who is gay, spoke out against that policy.
Unlike the majority of defendants in the Hamtramck case, the majority of those charged at U of M are not Muslim. The cause of Palestine, however, has broad support from Muslims and Arabs.
Jamil Khuja, who, along with another defense attorney, Amir Makled, first filed the motion for a recusal, argued that Nessel made personally-motivated public statements toward issues related to the U of M protestor case – ones that he contended run parallel to the reasons she is seeking a special prosecutor in Hamtramck.
"Those words are anti-Semitic to us,” Nessel said and gestured toward herself and State Senator Jeremy Moss (D-Southfield), whom she sat beside in a press conference. Both of the elected officials are Jewish. "And that's why we've asked [Tlaib] to stop using that kind of language. It's still painful – it still hurts us – and we're still asking her to stop."
Moss said the phrase “has been used by those who want to kill, maim, harm, destroy Jews.” He added, "The phrase has been co-opted as a battle cry for those who want to eradicate Jews who live in Israel from the Jordan River to the Mediterranean Sea."
Source: Www.Michiganpublic.Org
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Trump says US ships need free travel through Panama, Suez
April 27, 2025
WASHINGTON (AFP) -- US President Donald Trump on Saturday urged free transit for American commercial and military ships through the Panama and Suez canals, tasking his secretary of state with making progress "immediately."
Trump has for months been calling for the United States to take control of the Panama Canal but his social media post also shifted focus onto the vital Suez route.
"American Ships, both Military and Commercial, should be allowed to travel, free of charge, through the Panama and Suez Canals!" he wrote on his Truth Social platform.
He claimed both routes would "not exist" without the United States and said he had asked Secretary of State Marco Rubio to "immediately take care of" the situation.
Source: Www.Koreaherald.Com
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https://www.koreaherald.com/article/10474804
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Suit up, but not in black: Donald Trump, Prince William’s attire at Pope Francis’ funeral sparks controversy
Apr 27, 2025
At what was to be a somber goodbye for Pope Francis in St. Peter's Square on Saturday, a style controversy hijacked part of the attention and it involved President Donald Trump, Prince William, and an ocean of blue suit-wearing men.
Trump, who prides himself on his own personal style, wore a blue suit, a light blue tie, and his obligatory American flag lapel pin to the Vatican. His color choice was less than pleasing to some of the viewers.
Any reason Donald Trump is wearing a blue suit instead of traditional black to a funeral?" one posted on X, setting off a flurry of controversy over funeral dress, religious decorum, and individual faith.
Joining Trump in bending the Vatican’s strict dress code was Prince William, representing King Charles III. While the prince's dark suit and tie were praised for appearing suitably formal, eagle-eyed observers noticed that his suit was also dark blue — not black, as Vatican customs demand.
And they weren't alone. Ex-President Joe Biden also appeared in a blue tie, joining the trio of dignitaries subtly rebelling against tradition.
Source: Timesofindia.Com
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Donald Trump’s top security chief lost her $4,400 Gucci purse — who stole it and how
Apr 27, 2025
The masked thief who stole Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem’s $4,400 Gucci handbag—containing $3,000 cash, her passport, DHS badge, apartment keys, and confidential documents—has been arrested, according to a New York Times report.
The theft unfolded on April 20 at The Capital Burger, a restaurant just a mile from the White House, while Noem, 53, was dining with her family for Easter. According to surveillance footage reviewed by law enforcement, the suspect, wearing dark pants, a black jacket with a fur-type collar, a baseball cap, and a surgical mask, entered the restaurant around 7:52 pm, scanned the room, and quickly moved in on Noem’s belongings.
Describing the heist, Noem told podcaster Vince Coglianese, "It was kind of shocking, actually, because it was sitting right by my feet. I actually felt my purse — he hooked with his foot and drug it a few steps away and dropped a coat over it and took it." She initially thought her grandchildren were kicking her under the table. "But it was very professionally done," she added. "It tells me that this happens all the time to people, and that they live in communities where this is a danger, and it reaffirms why I’m here."
John Miller, CNN's chief law enforcement and intelligence analyst, said during a broadcast that the thief appeared to be a "smooth operator" and "does this for a living, there's no doubt about that." Miller explained that the man sat down at a table next to Noem’s, slid the bag under his table with his foot, then concealed it under a jacket before walking out with it—all within three minutes of arriving.
Source: Timesofindia.Com
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What we know about attacker who drove SUV into crowd, killing several at Canada's Vancouver street festival
Apr 27, 2025
An SUV driver is in police custody after the vehicle drove into a crowd at a street festival in Vancouver on Saturday evening. The incident took place just after 8pm (local time) near East 41st Avenue and Fraser Street, where the Lapu Lapu Day Block Party was held.
Police confirmed that multiple people were killed and several others injured in the attack. Videos from the scene show the black SUV with a crushed front hood and deployed airbags on the driver’s side. Images of the incident depict dozens of injured individuals receiving care from first responders and bystanders.
Vancouver Mayor Ken Sim condemned the attack, confirming there were "a number of fatalities" and multiple injuries. "I am shocked and deeply saddened by the horrific incident at today’s Lapu Lapu Day event. Our thoughts are with all those affected and with Vancouver’s Filipino community during this incredibly difficult time," he said.
Source: Timesofindia.Com
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Africa
Tinubu committed to unifying Nigerians across religious divide – Minister
By Chimezie Godfrey
April 26, 202
The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, says President Bola Tinubu remains committed to unifying Nigerians irrespective of their religions.
Idris, who said this at the Official Opening of Katampe Extension Jumu’at Mosque in Abuja on Friday, said that he is also ensuring that Nigerians live harmoniously in the interest of the country.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III inaugurated the N560 million Katampe Extension Islamic Centre and Mosque.
Source: Newsdiaryonline.Com
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https://newsdiaryonline.com/tinubu-committed-to-unifying-nigerians-across-religion-divide-minister/
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$220m Fine: Judgement Will Affect Our Services In Nigeria – WhatsApp
27-04-2025
WhatsApp LLC has said the judgment delivered by the Competition and Consumer Protection Tribunal, which affirmed the authority of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) to penalise the platform and its parent company, Meta Platforms Incorporated, for anti-competitive practices, would affect its operations in Nigeria.
WhatsApp, in a statement sent to LEADERSHIP Sunday yesterday, said the platform’s ability to operate both in Nigeria and globally is inseparable from the infrastructure provided by Meta.
“WhatsApp relies on limited data to run our service and keep users safe, and it would be impossible to provide WhatsApp in Nigeria, or globally, without the infrastructure of our parent company, Meta. The FCCPC order contains multiple inaccuracies and misrepresents how WhatsApp works, and we are urgently applying to stay the order and appeal today’s decision to avoid any impact to users,” it said.
Recall that the tribunal, led by Hon. Thomas Okosun, delivered a landmark judgment affirming the FCCPC’s authority and actions on nearly all the contested issues raised by Meta and WhatsApp. The tribunal upheld the commission’s final order issued on July 19, 2024, and awarded a $220 million administrative penalty against the tech giants, in addition to $35,000 in investigative costs.
The case stems from a sweeping 38-month joint investigation launched by the FCCPC and the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) into Meta and WhatsApp’s conduct, privacy practices and consumer data policies, which began in 2020.
Source: Leadership.Ng
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2027: Tinubu can’t win in free, fair election – Dele Momodu
27th April 2025
He was one of the few Nigerians who fought the military for the country to return to democratic rule using NADECO.
In this interview with Sunday Sun, he looked at governance in Nigeria today, the state of the nation, political economy, the President Bola Tinubu’s policies and outcomes, as well as the country’s trajectory.
How would you describe the state of the nation? Insecurity is taking a toll on Nigeria, to the extent that the President, on his return from France, gave marching orders to Security Chiefs and the NSA that enough is enough.
I don’t see anything new in that. From the time we had the crisis, let’s say, from Jonathan to Buhari to, now, under Tinubu, not much has changed. It was embarrassing during Buhari’s time because Buhari was a retired Major General. We thought, if anyone could handle insecurity, he would be able to handle it better. Also, because there was also the campaign that the bulk of the crisis came from Fulani herdsmen and he was a Fulani man, we expected that he would be able to persuade his friends, his family members, and everybody, at least cajole them and let his government have peace.
Unfortunately, we didn’t enjoy that peace. So, for me, now with Tinubu coming, I think it’s getting worse. It’s escalating, I think, in the last couple of months, and it doesn’t seem that the government has been able to get a hang of it. So, we can only pray. You know, when everything else has failed, then you resort to prayer. We can only pray that some miracle will happen. But I’m not seeing that miracle yet.
Source: Thesun.Ng
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https://thesun.ng/2027-tinubu-cant-win-in-free-fair-election-dele-momodu/
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2027: Atiku’s coalition against Tinubu unfair, unjustified, says Nwosu
By : Adamu Abuh
27 Apr 2025
A chieftain of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Ugwumba Uche Nwosu says the ongoing gang-up by Coalition of opposition politicians against the second term aspiration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in not only unfair but unjustifiable.
Nwosu in an interactive session with reporters in Abuja on Saturday insist that President deserves a second term in office based on the power shift arrangement between the Southern and Northern parts of the country.
He called on the coalition of opposition politicians led by the former Vice President Atiku Abubakar to be act like true patriotic Nigerians by allowing President Tinubu serve out his two terms in office which expires in May 29, 2031.
Nwosu, who made an unsuccessful bid for the governorship of Imo state in the 2015 poll, remarked that it is too early to pass judgement on the performance of the President Tinubu led administration after two years in office
Source: Guardian.Ng
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https://guardian.ng/politics/2027-atikus-coalition-against-tinubu-unfair-unjustified-says-nwosu/
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Despite Gunmen Attack, Supporters Throng Pro-Wike Mega Rally In Bayelsa
By: Amos Okioma
April 26, 2025
April 26, (THEWILL) – Supporters of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, defied an armed attack by suspected political thugs, who fired gunshots into the crowd during a rally in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, to scare invited guests and party faithful.
The ceremony, which was intended to inaugurate the New Associates group at the Church of God Mission Camp at Igbogene, Yenagoa, was briefly disrupted as security operatives and the armed thugs exchanged gunshots which left many scampering for safety.
The rally, organised in appreciation of President Bola Tinubu for appointing sons and daughters of the state into positions of government, and to declare support for Wike, who is the grand patron of the group, later commenced after security operatives managed to secure the venue.
The supporters of NEW Associates who had thronged the Church of God Mission Camp arena as early as 8am, were already seated when the gunmen emerged from the nearby creeks and bush shooting sporadically.
The supporters, however, ran for their lives while the combined security personnel from the Nigeria Police Force, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and DSS engaged the hoodlums to retreat.
Speaking shortly after the incident, the Secretary of NEW Associates and former spokesman of Ijaw Youths Council (IYC), Comrade Ebilade Ekerefe, accused the state government of trying to disrupt their peaceful rally.
He said, “How will somebody go after law-abiding citizens of Nigeria, particularly Ijaw youths, who have gathered to associate politically, we are not here to cause any trouble, we are here to express our supports, solidarity to the President and Commander-in-Chief.”
Also, the immediate past Commissioner of Health in Bayelsa State, Dr Pabara Igwele, said the rally is a peaceful one, that anybody trying to cause panic is doing so for political reason.
However, after the inauguration, the Convener, Barr George Turnah, MON, said apart from the inauguration of the Bayelsa State chapter of the New Associates, it was an opportunity to appreciate the renewed hope of president Bola Tinubu-led government, and applauded him for the appointments he gave to distinguished sons and daughters of Niger Delta region into positions of trust.
Including Chief Nyeson Wike, FCT Minister; Dr Heneiken Lokpobiri, Minister Petroleum resources, oil; Dr Samuel Ogbuku, MD of Niger Delta Development Commission; Mr Ebitimi Amgbare, MD Niger Delta Basin Development Authority; and Mrs Didi Walson Jack, Head of service to the Federation.
Source: Thewillnews.Com
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URL: https://newageislam.com/islamic-world-news/pahalgam-terror-attack-assam-university/d/135331