Principal suspended for organising Iftar gathering at primary school in UP

New Age Islam News Bureau

22 March 2025

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·         Principal suspended for organising Iftar gathering at primary school in UP

·         As a Muslim, the UK government’s definition of Islamophobia won’t protect us

·         Leader warns US will face 'severe blows' for any malicious act

·         Senate panel warns Punjab govt over ‘violation’ of production orders for Ejaz Chaudhry

·         Attempt to smuggle 22,496 unlicensed pills foiled in Saudi Arabia’s Jazan

·         Islamic bodies should live in 21st century, value diverse ideas - don

·         Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan Releases American Prisoner in Humanitarian Gesture

·         Trump revoking protections for 530,000 Cubans, Haitians and other migrants

·         Police detain 12 over alleged attack on mosque in Kaduna

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India

·         Delhi: Akbar Road signboard defaced, Maharana Pratap Singh’s poster pasted

·         Aurangzeb keeps haunting Maharashtra politics. This time, he can hurt Fadnavis’ governance

·         Yogi Adityanath’s 15-day bulldozer notice to mosque in Kushinagar over alleged illegal construction

·         Government of India implements 20th amendment to Birth and Death Registration Act

·         18 BJP MLAs ousted from Karnataka House; Muslim quota bill passed

·         When Kerala Muslims thank Hindu royals for masjid fight

·         ‘If anyone dares…’ Ajit Pawar's warning against those who intimidate Muslims after Nagpur violence

·         RLD likely to seek ministerial berth for its Muslim MLA

·         BJP accuses Congress of doing ‘contract jihad’ in Karnataka

·         Amid din, Karnataka passes Bill providing 4% reservation for Muslims in public contracts

·         Dhami government to provide Eid gift kits to poor Muslims

·         Eid al-Fitr heritage walk in Coimbatore: Explore Athar Jamath mosque and Karumbukadai

·         Ensure murder convict can keep Quran, offer prayers 5 times a day during Ramadan, Allahabad HC directs Etawah jail head

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Europe

·         Manchester City hosts Iftar event at Etihad for Muslim supporters

·         UK anti-Muslim activist 'Tommy Robinson' loses challenge to segregation in jail

·         Hundreds join interfaith Iftar celebration in Newport

·         Deal or no deal? Why Trump is struggling to win fast ceasefire in Ukraine

·         £1,200 raised at annual East Lancs Hospice iftar gathering

·         How Bradford district has been marking Ramadan 2025

·         Slough mosque attack leaves man with fractured nose

·         Muslim community gather in Leamington for Big Ifar

·         Iceland minister who had a child with a teenager 30 years ago quits

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Mideast

·         Hamas studying US ‘bridge’ proposal on ceasefire as Israel escalates return to war

·         Putin congratulates Ayatollah Khamenei, Pezeshkian on Nowruz

·         Cultural Seminar in Hajjah Commemorates Imam Ali’s Martyrdom

·         Taiz symposium honors Imam Ali's martyrdom, draws parallels to modern conflict

·         Israeli military says it intercepted missile fired from Yemen; Houthis claim responsibility

·         UN condemns violence in Gaza and West Bank, urges Israel to resume aid deliveries

·         UN warns of ‘massive trauma’ for Gaza’s children

·         Israeli hostage freed after 491 days asks: Where was the United Nations, the Red Cross, the world?

·         Two evenings in Jahana commemorate Imam Ali martyrdom , peace be upon him

·         Over 3 million pilgrims: Najaf gears up for dual religious events

·         80,000 Worshippers Perform Third Friday Prayer at Al-Aqsa Mosque

·         For 3rd Friday, enemy refuses to hand over parts of Ibrahimi Mosque

·         Kurds in Iraq and Syria celebrate the Nowruz festival of spring at a time of new political horizons

·         Turkiye condemns ‘deliberate Israeli strike’ on Gaza hospital; Israel army insists it ‘struck terrorists’

·         Israeli forces push deeper into Gaza and destroy its only cancer hospital

·         Former central bank governor Riad Salameh’s case referred to financial prosecution

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Pakistan

·         Delay in naming climate authority chief irks SC constitutional bench

·         PTI denied permission to hold rally at iconic Lahore venue

·         Broadcast of case on false blasphemy evidence ordered

·         Tear gas, water cannon employed to disperse Baloch Yakjehti Committee protesters in Quetta

·         President Zardari grants remission to prisoners on Eid ul Fitr

·         Tensions boil over as IHC judges ‘refuse’ CJ-ordered changes

·         Security of trains in Balochistan beefed up

·         Punjab govt warned against violating ‘Senate sanctity’

·         Cop martyred, 3 injured in Swat police operation as drug smuggler killed

·         Journalist Farhan Mallick handed into FIA custody for 4 days over ‘anti-state’ content

·         5,367 personnel to be deployed for Youm-i-Ali procession in Karachi: police

·         CDNS resumes its Islamic window operations in Nov 2024, NA told

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Arab World

·         Prophet’s Mosque receives 4,000 worshipers from 120 countries for I’tikaf

·         Saudi aid center distributes 3,800 boxes of dates in Aden

·         How Saudi Arabia is pioneering soil quality and water conservation solutions

·         Taif governor meets plants cooperative members

·         Holy cities experience moderate to heavy rains amid forecast of more until Sunday

·         Spanish ambassador bids fond farewell to Saudi Arabia

·         Abu Dhabi Police warn against fake Ramadan contests on social media

·         Oman announces entry restrictions to Mecca for 2025 Hajj season

·         Saudi Arabia: Number of Mecca mosques raised to 849 amid worshipper influx

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Southeast Asia

·         Muslims Urged To Be Mindful On Social Media, Avoid Disrupting Harmony

·         Jakim points police towards social media posts mocking Islam

·         For undocumented migrants in Madrid, Ramadan iftar brings comfort and chance to ‘forget problems’

·         MADANI Government Always Appreciates Religious Community - Zulkifli

·         Anwar Announces RM250 Aidilfitri Aid For KAFA Teachers, Imams And Mosque Personnel

·         Daily waste collection at Ramadan bazaars in Selangor reduced by 40% - KDEBWM

·         LFL repeats 'mosque next to temple' plan, hits out at Anwar

·         Book ban proposal reinforces thesis of Kuru’s book, says publisher

·         From pistachio to red velvet, mini ‘apom balik’ a hit at Bayan Baru Ramadan Bazaar

·         Terengganu outlaws all live music for remainder of Ramadan

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South Asia

·         Security Forces Seize Smuggled Weapons in Paktika Province

·         Torkham border to reopen today for all types of travel and trade between Afghanistan and Pakistan

·         One-Third of Afghans struggle with hunger: WFP

·         17 injured in explosion in Helmand Province, says Emergency Hospital

·         Journos attacked at Cumilla hospital while covering ‘death by negligence’

·         Bayat Foundation delivers Ramadan aid to needy families in Bamyan

·         Balkh and Sarkhan Darya Officials Discuss Strengthening Bilateral Cooperation

·         Kabul Meeting Marks a Step Toward Improved US-Islamic Emirate Ties

·         ICRC on World Water Day: Access to water a major challenge for 33 million in Afghanistan

·         Gazipur garment workers block highway for 2hrs for dues, Eid bonus

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North America

·         Tates return to Romania to 'prove their innocence'

·         CAIR Calls Trump Admin’s Elimination of DHS Civil Rights, Ombudsman Offices ‘Dangerous Erosion of Critical Accountability’

·         In Dearborn, a Ramadan iftar for Muslim foster youth to break fast in community

·         Alleged shooter ‘knew targets were Muslim’, court told

·         Heavyweight boxing legend George Foreman dies aged 76, says family

·         As US measles cases continue to rise, so do vaccinations

·         US to import millions of eggs from Turkey and South Korea to ease prices

·         Judge in deportations case says government lawyers 'disrespectful'

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Africa

·         FG, national mosque partner to end open defecation by 2030

·         Kudos, knocks over Seyi Tinubu’s Ramadan outreach

·         FG partners national mosque to end open defecation in Nigeria

·         Kano mourns as famous industrialist Ahali dies at 108

·         Police dole out food items to slain officers’ families in Jigawa

·         El-Rufai: Joining A Political Party Is Like Attending A Church Or Mosque – Adebayo Speaks On Leadership Position

·         Sudan’s military seizes republican palace in key battle against RSF

·         Natasha: A Senate Conundrum, The Thin Line Between Humour And Harassment

·         ‘I’m Not Accepting Donations For₦500 Million Debt’ – Mr Macaroni

Compiled by New Age Islam News Bureau

URL: https://newageislam.com/islamic-world-news/primary-school-principal-suspended-iftar/d/134949

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Principal suspended for organising Iftar gathering at primary school in UP

March 21, 2025

Representative Image

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A principal from a government primary school in Shikarpur was suspended after organising an iftar gathering. The suspension has caused controversy, drawing criticism from the public.

The iftar gathering was organised on March 17 the video of the event quickly went viral leading to the suspension of the principal, Irfana Naqvi.

The video shows several Muslims participating in the iftar event inside the school premises. It is alleged that principal Irfana did not seek permission for the gathering from senior officials in the education department.

Soon after the video went viral the authorities suspended her and registered a case against the organizers of the event.

Speaking in favour of the decision, Aman Gupta, Shikarpur’s Assistant Basic Shiksha Adhikari (ABSA) said, “No event can be conducted in Government schools or institutions without permission. Principal Irfana Naqvi violated this law by organising iftar gathering without any approval and this lead to her suspension.”

Opposition parties have also come forward to criticize the government decision in the matter. One of the local leaders from the Samajwadi Party remarked, “This is a clear example of the double standards that exist in Uttar Pradesh today. If this gathering was a serious violation, why are we not seeing similar actions against those who hold religious events of other faiths in government institutions?”

After Naqvi’s suspension, social media users, activists and influential figures criticized the government’s action. While several Hindu right wing groups lauded the suspension, critics noted that in Uttar Pradesh the freedom to practice religion is almost invisible. Many took to their social media handles to question the rising discrimination against Muslims they argued that there is a lack of uniform enforcement when it comes to such gatherings.

Source:muslimmirror.com

Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story

https://muslimmirror.com/principal-suspended-for-organising-iftar-gathering-at-primary-school-in-up/

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As a Muslim, the UK government’s definition of Islamophobia won’t protect us

21 Mar, 2025

Afroze Fatima Zaidi

We are told that Islam is so awful that the need to criticise it must be protected as a legal right, and therefore we don’t deserve a definition of Islamophobia, writes Afroze Zaidi. [GETTY]

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At the end of February, the Labour government announced that it was launching a group to come up with “a working definition of Anti-Muslim Hatred/Islamophobia”. Some Muslims have welcomed the news; however, as a Muslim who has been researching Islamophobia from a decolonial lens for over a decade, I feel differently about it.

The move appears to be in response to the latest figures on anti-Muslim hate crimes, which were reportedly at the highest recorded level in 2024. According to Tell Mama, one of the reasons for this spike was Muslims advocating for Palestine post-October 7.

It is, of course, entirely on brand for PM Keir Starmer’s government to call attention to hate crimes against Muslims advocating for Palestine with one side of its mouth while endorsing heavy-handed policing and criminalisation of pro-Palestine protesters with the other.

Meanwhile, the response in the right-wing British press has featured the sort of gaslighting to which Muslims in the UK have now become accustomed.

We are told that Islam is so awful that the need to criticise it must be protected as a legal right, and therefore we don’t deserve a definition of Islamophobia. Or we are told that Muslims already have enough legal protection, and a legal definition of Islamophobia would be “special treatment” or tantamount to censorship.

It is essential to consider all of the above in the context that the people making these arguments are often the same people who are arguing in favour of an established definition of antisemitism. It would seem, therefore, that defining antisemitism is both simple and necessary. Defining Islamophobia, meanwhile, is a minefield.

This is a deliberately constructed narrative of desirable versus undesirable victims.

The irony here is that the undesirability of Muslims as victims of hate is, in itself, a symptom of Islamophobia. In other words, the biggest challenge to an officially sanctioned definition of Islamophobia is not, as the dominant narrative among British politicians and media might suggest, freedom of speech or censorship or perceived special treatment.

The biggest challenge to defining Islamophobia, is Islamophobia.

And herein lies the elephant in the room which politicians and even some Muslim organisations have failed to acknowledge. Islamophobia is not limited to hate crime. Moreover, some of the most dangerous forms of Islamophobia operate not at the grassroots but at institutional and structural levels.

Arzu Merali, former Head of Research at the Islamic Human Rights Commission (IHRC), commented that:

“There has been decades worth of extensive work undertaken on Islamophobia, its definition and its impact across society - not least by IHRC - looking at spiking hate crime to institutional anti-Muslim racism. Understanding the impact of structural Islamophobia on the everyday experience of Muslims (what IHRC termed ten years ago as the environment of hate) is essential in tackling street level violence and hatred.”

Educators in schools and universities turning into informants against their Muslim students is one of the most pernicious forms of Islamophobia in present-day Britain. Prevent is state-sponsored Islamophobia. The Trojan Hoax was state-sponsored Islamophobia. The Forde Report extensively documented Islamophobia within the Labour party, which Starmer summarily dismissed.

Muslims being discouraged from expressing their Muslimness in schools, workplaces and public spaces is part of the everyday Islamophobia which goes unnoticed and unchecked and which is beyond the scope of any hate crime legislation.

Moreover, while Muslims calling for an end to the genocide in Gaza are at risk of hate crimes, it’s important to remember that this form of Islamophobia is not separate to the Islamophobia that has sustained the genocide in Gaza on a global scale.

Merali added that: “The government's announcement to go back to the drawing board sounds cynical at best and does not augur well for outcomes.” At this point, there is absolutely no need to reinvent the wheel.

As for freedom of speech concerns, I wrote an entire thesis over a decade ago arguing that hateful views on Islam as a faith, versus those which are simply critical, are fairly easy to distinguish.

To summarise, my research highlighted that because the freedom of speech clause exists for acts of religious hatred but not for racial hatred, this distinction effectively places a greater burden of proof on victims of religious hatred.

The freedom of speech clause creates disparity between access to justice for religious minorities from racially homogenous groups, such as Jews, and racially diverse groups such as Muslims. This is because Jews are protected by racial hatred legislation, while Muslims, as a racially diverse religious group, are not.

Ten years on, I am no longer arguing for amendments to equalities or hate crime legislation. Even with the best intentions, the law is limited in its application and cannot be relied upon for justice in its true sense. The practice of advocating for justice, and carving out a space for ourselves as Muslims, begins and thrives at the community level.

We must set aside our differences and get organised as a community. We already have blueprints from anti-racist, decolonial, and labour rights movements that we can follow.

Collectively, we also desperately need a level of political awareness that allows us to recognise who our allies truly are while giving us the courage to close our doors to Zionist enablers of genocide.

There’s no better time to revive and embody these principles than in the month of Ramadan, when community spirit and the imperative to do right by Allah are at their peak. Doing so might just help us realise that a government-sanctioned definition of Islamophobia won’t save us, but stronger community ties could make all the difference.

Source:newarab.com

Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story

https://www.newarab.com/opinion/government-led-definition-islamophobia-wont-save-muslims

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Leader warns US will face 'severe blows' for any malicious act

March 21, 2025

TEHRAN - On the first day of the year 1404 in the Iranian solar calendar [March 21, 2025], the Leader of the Islamic Revolution, Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei, met with thousands of people from various walks of life.

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During the meeting, which took place in the Imam Khomeini Hussainiyah, the Leader spoke about the Iranian tradition of welcoming the New Year with prayers, supplications, and gatherings in sacred places, viewing it as a reflection of the nation's spiritual outlook on Nowruz. He characterized the past year as one marked by patience, resilience, and the manifestation of the Iranian people's spiritual strength, while also explaining the significance of prayer and steadfastness in achieving significant victories for the Front of Truth throughout history.

Ayatollah Khamenei described the current period during the month of Ramadan as dedicated to Imam Ali (pbuh) and emphasized that the Iranian people and Muslim nations should turn to the Nahj al-Balaghah to draw lessons from Imam Ali (pbuh), who is regarded as the greatest human being after the Prophet (pbuh). He also advised individuals active in the cultural field to "pay special attention to studying and teaching this magnificent book."

Ayatollah Khamenei described the Nights of Qadr as a valuable opportunity for prayer and supplication to the Almighty. "Each hour of these nights is worth an entire lifetime, and seeking intercession from the Imams, coupled with the prayers of the people – especially the youth – has the power to change their destiny and the fate of an entire nation’s life," he remarked.

In the continuation of his remarks, the Leader of the Islamic Revolution referred to the statements of US politicians about Iran, stating, " The US must know that when facing Iran, threats will never achieve anything." He further added, "The US and others must know that if they commit any malicious act against the Iranian nation, they will receive a severe blow."

Ayatollah Khamenei described the interpretation of US and European politicians regarding the Resistance centers as Iranian proxy forces as a major mistake and an insult to these groups. "Why do you label them as proxies? The people of Yemen and the Resistance centers in the region have an inner motive to stand against the Zionists, and the Islamic Republic of Iran does not need proxies. Our stance is clear, and so is theirs."

The Leader of the Islamic Revolution described the steadfastness and resistance against the malicious and oppressive acts of the Zionist regime as a deeply rooted matter in the region. "When Palestine was first occupied, one of the countries that stood against the Zionist regime’s oppression was Yemen, whose ruler at the time participated in an international assembly to oppose the occupation of Palestine," he remarked.

He referred to the expansion of protests against the crimes of the ruthless Zionist regime against non-Muslim nations, as well as the popular and student demonstrations in the United States and European countries. "Western officials resort to actions such as cutting university funding for students who have protested in favor of Palestine, which, of course, is also a reflection of their claims regarding free flow of information, liberalism, and human rights," he stated.

Ayatollah Khamenei underscored the opposition of nations to the malice of the Zionist regime and their resistance against through all available means. He added that "The Islamic Republic of Iran also stands firm against this malevolence and has clearly articulated its consistent position and approach, which is to support the Palestinian and Lebanese fighters who are defending their countries."

The Leader of the Islamic Revolution emphasized once again in response to the threats of Iran's adversaries, "We have never been the initiators of conflict or confrontation with anyone. However, if anyone acts with malice and starts [trouble], they should know that they will face severe blows."

Elsewhere in his address, while referring to the ongoing expenses of the Front of Truth in the battle against the Front of Falsehood, he added, "We must view the events of the past year with the understanding that in the battle between truth and falsehood, victory will undoubtedly belong to the Front of Truth. However, sacrifices must be made along this path, just as this divine tradition was evident during the Sacred Defense."

While referring to the loss of prominent individuals over the past year, Ayatollah Khamenei stated that the ultimate outcome of enduring these bitter events and maintaining "steadfastness and seeking help from the Lord" was the defeat of the enemies, particularly the corrupt, wicked, and vile Zionist regime. He emphasized that during the challenging year of 1403 ASH, the nation’s spiritual strength, patience, courage, and bravery were remarkably evident.

Source:tehrantimes.com

Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story

https://www.tehrantimes.com/news/511148/Leader-warns-US-will-face-severe-blows-for-any-malicious-act

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Senate panel warns Punjab govt over ‘violation’ of production orders for Ejaz Chaudhry

By Nausheen Yousaf

March 21, 2025

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Senator Ejaz Chaudhry. — Senate website/File 

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Expressing it's displeasure over non-compliance with PTI lawmaker Ejaz Chaudhry's production order, the Senate Standing Committee on Procedure and Privileges on Friday warned that it could propose a punishment under “Committee Rule 78” in this regard.

Presiding over the Senate committee meeting, Senator Taj Haider directed the provincial government to produce the PTI lawmaker before the body if he was willing to do so.

Earlier this month, Senate Chairman Yousuf Raza Gilani expressed his displeasure over the non-implementing of the production order for incarcerated PTI Senator Ejaz Chaudhry and referred the matter to the Privileges Committee.

In his ruling, Gilani stated: “Such disregard for parliamentary authority cannot be allowed to persist unchecked, as it threatens the institutional integrity of the Senate and the broader democratic framework.”

Chaudhry is currently imprisoned at Lahore’s Kot Lakhpat jail. In November last year, an anti-terrorism court (ATC) in Lahore formally indicted the PTI leader in cases related to the countrywide riots on May 9, 2023, registered at the Racecourse and Sarwar Road police stations.

During today’s meeting, Senator Haider stated: “The committee has the authority to punish over violation of the [Senators’] privileges.” He told the meeting that as per the interior ministry, the senator was not produced due to security concerns.

Speaking on the occasion, Home Secretary Punjab Noor-ul-Amin Mengal admitted that they were given two production orders, adding that they brought Aon Abbas to Islamabad but Chaudhry had health issues.

IG Punjab informed the meeting that the PML-N lawmaker had heart-related issues, adding that three stents were recently installed. He added that they respect the Senate and always comply with its orders.

IG Prison, also present, was of the view that the senator requested them to admit him to the ICU after being discharged from the hospital. “We are ready to bring him here if he wants to join the Senate session despite health issues,” he added.

At this, Senator Haider directed the provincial government to produce the ailing PTI leader before the committee if he was willing.

Source:thenews.com.pk

Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story

https://www.thenews.com.pk/latest/1293987-senate-panel-warns-punjab-govt-over-violation-of-production-orders-for-ejaz-chaudhry

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Attempt to smuggle 22,496 unlicensed pills foiled in Saudi Arabia’s Jazan

March 21, 2025

Land patrols of the Border Guard in Al-Raboah in the Asir Region led to the arrest of six violators of the border security system. (SPA)

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JAZAN: Al-Afwaj security patrols in Jazan foiled an attempt to smuggle 22,496 unlicensed medical pills and 3 kg of hashish in Faifa Governorate. The seized narcotics were handed to the relevant authority.

Authorities in Jazan arrested a violator of the border security system, of Ethiopian nationality, for promoting amphetamine. Preliminary procedures have been completed and the offender referred to the competent authority.

Land patrols of the Border Guard in Al-Raboah in the Asir Region led to the arrest of six violators of the border security system, of Ethiopian nationality, for smuggling 120 kg of qat. Preliminary procedures have been completed, and the seized narcotics handed to the relevant authority.

Security authorities call upon citizens and residents to report all available information about any activities related to drug smuggling or selling. They can contact the General Directorate of Narcotics Control by calling 911 in Makkah, Riyadh, and the Eastern Region, or 999 in the other regions. The organization can also be contacted by email.

Source:arabnews.com

Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story

https://www.arabnews.com/node/2594408/saudi-arabia

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Islamic bodies should live in 21st century, value diverse ideas - don

Mar 21, 2025

Academic Tajuddin Mohd Rasdi took potshots at two national Islamic bodies for recommending a ban against two books authored by US-based professor, Ahmet T Kuru.

This comes after the National Council for Islamic Religious Affairs (MKI)’s Muzakarah Committee and the Islamic Development Department (Jakim) urged the government to ban Kuru’s books titled “Perikatan Ulama Negara Punca Autoritarianisme dan Kemunduran Dunia Muslim (2022)” and “Islam, Autoritarianisme dan Kemunduran Bangsa (2024)”.

Source:malaysiakini.com

Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story

https://www.malaysiakini.com/news/737974

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Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan Releases American Prisoner in Humanitarian Gesture

2025-03-21

KABUL(BNA): The Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan announced the release of American prisoner George Gleizman today, Thursday describing the act as a humanitarian gesture. This release underscores the Islamic Emirate’s intention to foster goodwill and engage in dialogue, mainly with the United States.

The U.S. State Department welcomed the decision, emphasizing that it reflects a commitment to building mutual respect and understanding between the two nations. Officials noted that this step is a positive sign of the Islamic Emirate’s willingness to engage with all parties involved.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Emirate expressed gratitude to the United Arab Emirates and Qatar for their instrumental roles in facilitating the negotiations that led to Gleizman’s release.

Source:bakhtarnews.af

Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story

https://www.bakhtarnews.af/en/islamic-emirate-of-afghanistan-releases-american-prisoner-in-humanitarian-gesture/

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Trump revoking protections for 530,000 Cubans, Haitians and other migrants

March 22, 2025

US President Donald Trump's administration has said it will revoke the temporary legal status of more than half a million migrants from Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua and Venezuela.

Those migrants have been warned to leave the country before their permits and deportation shield are cancelled on 24 April, according to a notice posted by the federal government.

The 530,000 migrants were brought into the US under a Biden-era sponsorship process known as CHNV that was designed to open legal migration pathways. Trump suspended the programme once he took office.

It is unclear how many of these migrants have been able to secure another status in the interim that would allow them to stay in the US legally.

The programme was launched under Democratic President Joe Biden in 2022, first covering Venezuelans before it was expanded to other countries.

It allowed the migrants and their immediate family members to fly into the US if they had American sponsors and remain for two years under a temporary immigration status known as parole.

The Biden administration had argued that CHNV would help curb illegal crossings at the southern US border and allow for better vetting of those entering the country.

The Department of Homeland Security on Friday rebuked the prior administration and said the programme had failed in its goals.

The agency's statement said Biden officials had "granted them [migrants] opportunities to compete for American jobs and undercut American workers; forced career civil servants to promote the programs even when fraud was identified; and then blamed Republicans in Congress for the chaos that ensued and the crime that followed".

However, the 35-page notice in the Federal Register said some of those in the US under CHNV might be allowed to remain on a "case-by-case basis".

Trump is also considering whether to cancel the temporary legal status of some 240,000 Ukrainians who fled to the US during the conflict with Russia.

CHNV helped a reported 213,000 Haitians enter the US amid deteriorating conditions in the Caribbean country.

More than 120,700 Venezuelans, 110,900 Cubans and over 93,000 Nicaraguans were also allowed into the US under the programme before Trump shut it down.

Last month, DHS announced it would in August end another immigration designation, temporary protected status (TPS), for 500,000 Haitians living in the US.

TPS was granted to nationals of designated countries facing unsafe conditions, such as armed conflict or environmental disasters.

DHS also halted TPS for Venezuelans in the US, although this is facing a legal challenge.

Since taking office in January, Trump's immigration policies have encountered a number of legal hurdles.

Source:bbc.com

Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story

https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c33706jy774o

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Police detain 12 over alleged attack on mosque in Kaduna

21st March 2025

The Police Command in Kaduna State has detained 12 suspects over an alleged attack on worshippers during Tahajjud prayers (night prayers).

The Command’s Spokesman, Mansir Hassan, confirmed the development in a statement issued on Friday in Kaduna.

Hassan said, “On March 21, at about 2:00 a.m., the police received a distress call from a concerned citizen.

“The citizen reported that a large group of armed hoodlums had mobilised from Malalin Gabas, Tudun Wada, Rafin Guza, and Unguwar Baduko areas to attack worshipers performing Tahajjud prayers at Layin Bilya, Makwa Road, Rigasain Kaduna.

“Upon receiving the report, the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) led a team of officers, accompanied by the Commander of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) to the scene in a bid to apprehend the suspects.”

He, however, said that before the police team’s arrival, the hoodlums had already stabbed one Usman Mohammad, 23, with a sharp knife.

Hassan said that Mohammad was immediately rushed to the hospital for urgent medical attention, but due to the severity of his injuries later succumbed and was confirmed dead by a doctor.

“Subsequently, the police swiftly apprehended 12 suspects, who confessed to have partaken in the attack, and recovered several weapons from them,” he said.

Hassan said further that an investigation was ongoing to uncover the full details of the incident and “ensure justice is served.”

According to him, following the incident, the Command has significantly increased security deployments to strategic areas in the state, particularly around mosques, where such prayers are conducted.

He urged residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious movements and activities promptly to the police to aid effective crime prevention.

“The command is issuing a stern warning to all miscreants to desist from engaging in these criminal activities as they will face the full weight of the law if caught,” Hassan said.

Source:punchng.com

Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story

https://punchng.com/police-detain-12-over-alleged-attack-on-mosque-in-kaduna/

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India

 

Delhi: Akbar Road signboard defaced, Maharana Pratap Singh’s poster pasted

March 20, 2025

On Thursday, March 19, three men were seen smearing black paint on a signboard bearing the name of Akbar Road in Delhi. The men, who identified themselves as members of a group protesting the vandalism of a statue of the Hindu king Maharana Pratap, expressed their frustration over the lack of police action regarding the incident.

The statue, located at Kashmere Gate ISBT, had been defaced, which triggered this protest. The men, one of whom was identified as Amit Rathore, demanded that those responsible for defacing the statue be arrested, accusing both the Delhi government and police of attempting to suppress the incident. As they defaced the signboard, they raised slogans of “Jai Bhavani.”

A video of the incident surfaced on social media, showing one of the men, Vijay, defacing the signboard. In the video, Vijay was heard explaining that the group had been removing signboards bearing the names of Mughal emperors like Akbar, Babur, and Humayun.

He expressed that this was part of an effort to make the government “open its eyes” and take action. He also accused the Mughal emperors of having committed atrocities against the Hindu community, including raping women, hanging people from trees, destroying temples, and fracturing the unity of India.

In a statement, Vijay emphasized the importance of the Rajput king Maharana Pratap by pasting a photo of him on the signboard after smearing it with paint.

This protest follows a similar incident in February 2025, when protestors defaced the signboards of Akbar Road and Humayun Road, also in Delhi. On that occasion, the protestors had pasted images of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj on the signboards, responding to the release of the Bollywood movie Chavva.

The movie, which centers on the life of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj and his suffering at the hands of the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb, has sparked outrage among some sections of the population, especially in light of the depiction of Aurangzeb’s atrocities.

The movie’s portrayal has contributed to rising animosity towards the Muslim community, with several political leaders, including members of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), calling for the demolition of Aurangzeb’s tomb in Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar (formerly Aurangabad).

This demand has triggered a political debate, especially in Maharashtra, where Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis stated that while he had no objections to the demolition, it could only be done through legal channels since the tomb is protected by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).

Fadnavis later clarified that, despite the controversial history of Aurangzeb, the tomb’s protection was the responsibility of the state government. The deputy chief minister of Maharashtra, Eknath Shinde, also condemned those praising Aurangzeb, calling them “traitors,” citing his actions against the state and the Hindu community.

Tensions escalated further on March 17, when violence erupted between the Muslim community and the police in Nagpur, leading to the arrest of over 50 people, including minors.

Simultaneously, right-wing groups like Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) and Bajrang Dal staged protests demanding the removal of Aurangzeb’s tomb. In Nagpur, they burned effigies of the Mughal emperor and raised slogans honoring Chhatrapati Shivaji and Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj.

The protests and resulting tensions prompted local authorities to increase security measures, including requiring visitors to show identity cards before entering the tomb area in Maharashtra’s Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar district. — With Agencies Inputs

Source:muslimmirror.com

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Aurangzeb keeps haunting Maharashtra politics. This time, he can hurt Fadnavis’ governance

MANASI PHADKE

22 March, 2025

Mumbai: Maharashtra has seen a significant number of communal incidents across the state since 2022. It created an ‘us versus them’ divide between Hindus and Muslims, helping the Bharatiya Janata Party whip up a strong Hindutva sentiment in the run-up to the 2024 Lok Sabha and state assembly polls.

A similar violent communal clash this week, though, was puzzling.

The week began with the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) and Bajrang Dal hitting the streets to demand that Mughal emperor Aurangzeb’s tomb in Khuldabad in the Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar district be razed. The outfits threatened a karseva-like movement if their demand was not met. The protest sparked a violent riot in Nagpur with members of the VHP and Bajrang Dal burning an effigy of the Mughal emperor. There were rumours of a cloth with Muslim holy inscriptions being burnt. The police and Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis have denied these rumours.

Generally, keeping alive a strong Hindutva sentiment on the ground, and maintaining an ‘us versus them’ narrative to target Congress for alleged Muslim appeasement helps the BJP politically in more ways than one. The BJP has been attempting to grow in Maharashtra by completely taking over the Shiv Sena’s Hindutva mandate and its claim on the legacy of Maratha warrior king Chhatrapati Shivaji.

But, on this occasion, the timing was questionable.

No major elections are coming up immediately, other than local body polls that may or may not be held this year. The BJP has come to power as part of the Mahayuti with its largest-ever tally in Maharashtra, and Fadnavis is using the government’s incontrovertible strength to drive governance. In other words, any major unrest in the state at this point hurts the BJP, or particularly the Fadnavis government, more than it helps it.

This is why Aurangzeb and Nagpur violence is ThePrint’s Newsmaker of The Week.

The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh’s (RSS) headquarters are in Nagpur. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to visit the city on 30 March.

The ghost of Aurangzeb

Aurangzeb died as a loser with an unrelenting and unsuccessful Deccan campaign resulting in the significant weakening of the Mughal empire. He has, however, always been a deeply polarising figure that keeps cropping up in Maharashtra’s political discourse.

For decades, Aurangzeb was the focal point of the Aurangabad name-change battle between the undivided Shiv Sena, which was pushing to rename the city Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, and the Congress, which opposed it.

In 2022, All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen party leader Akbaruddin Owaisi’s visit to Khuldabad stoked a political controversy once again. He laid flowers at Aurangzeb’s tomb.

After Aurangabad’s name change, a few stray incidents in 2023—where some members of the Muslim community allegedly shared social media forwards glorifying Aurangzeb—turned into full-blown communal conflicts. Fadnavis, then deputy CM, called those responsible “Aurangzeb ki auladein” (children of Aurangzeb).

And this time, as CM Fadnavis said, the trigger was the Vicky Kaushal-starrer film Chhaava, which depicts Chhatrapati Sambhaji’s battle with Aurangzeb, and how the latter had tortured the Maratha king to death.

Most of these conflicts haven’t been about Muslims worshipping Aurangzeb per se. They have been more about the perception of Hindus targeting Muslims and politicians fueling the divide.

“The true purpose of historically condemning Aurangzeb is to galvanise anti-Muslim sentiments,” wrote Audrey Truschke, associate professor of South Asian history at Rutgers University, in her book titled Aurangzeb: The Life and Legacy of India’s Most Controversial King.

At Khuldabad, the family of Sheikh Nissar Ahmed—unofficial caretakers of Aurangzeb’s tomb for six generations—talks about why the emperor’s grave is so modest. Aurangzeb, they say, earned his personal expenses by knitting and selling prayer caps.

He wanted his tomb to be built with mud with a basil tree overlooking it, and left open to the sky. In pockets of Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, some Muslim families also recall his austere ways when asked about him.

But, Hilal Ahmed, a scholar of political Islam and associate professor at the Delhi-based Centre for the Study of Developing Societies (CSDS) wrote for ThePrint in 2022, “Nothing ever made Aurangzeb a Muslim hero. Muslims found it difficult to embrace him as an Islamic icon.”

In the Nagpur violence, the main reason being cited for the tensions is the burning of the cloth, rumoured to have Islamic inscriptions. Elsewhere in the state, the VHP and Bajrang Dal’s protest demanding the tomb’s demolition was relatively uneventful.

The timing

In the run up to the 2024 Lok Sabha and Maharashtra assembly poll, the Opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi alleged that the government is letting investments go to Gujarat. In confidence, industrialists talked about how the investment climate in Gujarat was a notch better—mainly because of political stability and predictability—while Maharashtra’s political landscape had been a rollercoaster since 2019.

Now that the BJP has come back to power in Maharashtra with an overwhelming majority that erases all doubts about the state’s political stability, Fadnavis will likely use this opportunity to show how he strengthened the state’s investments and infrastructure.

His old ‘War room’ is back. The state’s budget has been reined in to limit the incentive-led revenue expenditure surge and focus more on bringing in fiscal discipline. And there is an emphasis on driving mega road projects and small airports in the state’s Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities.

Letting Aurangzeb-related issues fester may keep consolidating the BJP’s Hindutva vote bank in the long term. But unrest like this week’s Nagpur violence also takes away focus from Fadnavis’ governance agenda.

Source:theprint.in

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Yogi Adityanath’s 15-day bulldozer notice to mosque in Kushinagar over alleged illegal construction

Piyush Srivastava

22.03.25

The Yogi Adityanath government on Friday served a demolition notice on a mosque in Kushinagar, alleging illegal construction and encroachment and giving its management 15 days to remove it.

A member of the management committee of the Idgah Masjid, located in Garahiya Chintaman village, 350km east of Lucknow, said the panel had documents that refuted these allegations.

However, he said, the mosque authorities had called a meeting and, given the situation "these days", might decide to carry out the demolition themselves.

The Adityanath government has in recent months demolished a mosque elsewhere in Kushinagar, got a mosque in Sambhal surveyed controversially following allegations that it stood over a destroyed temple, and accused several mosques of power theft.

Jitendra Singh Srinet, tehsildar for the Tamkuhi area of Kushinagar district, said the Idgah Masjid had been built about 15 years ago without formal approval for its plan, and that it encroached on gram sabha (public) land.

"We have served three notices on the committee since January. Our bulldozers will bring the mosque down on April 8 if the committee doesn’t remove it by then," Srinet told local reporters.

Arvind Kishore Shahi, a resident of the locality, had moved an RTI plea in September asking the revenue department certain questions about the mosque. The reply he received said the structure had been built illegally and stood on land owned by the panchayat.

Hafiz Sabir Ali, a member of the mosque management committee, told local reporters: "The situation is not conducive and so I wouldn't like to comment on the government’s action."

However, he added: "We had told the authorities in a written reply that Mohammad Islam, former panchayat chief, had allocated this land for the mosque after taking permission from senior officers in Lucknow 15 years ago.

"We have all the papers to prove our legal right over the structure and the land. But such arguments are not appreciated these days.

“We shall hold a meeting to discuss how we should remove our mosque from here. We have seen bulldozers razing our religious sites at other places in the state and cannot doubt the government’s intention. Let’s see how we bring our building down."

The government had pulled down a portion of the Madani Masjid in the Karmaha area of Hata in Kushinagar last November alleging it had been built without approval for its plan.

Responding to a petition filed by the mosque committee against the government’s action, the Supreme Court had asked the local administration why a contempt case should not be initiated against it.

Hearing another case earlier, the apex court had directed that no religious structure should be demolished without a notice being served and its management given 15 days to respond. Madani Masjid authorities had claimed that no such notice had been served on them.

They told the Supreme Court that the mosque stood on land owned by its management committee and that its plan had been approved by the local municipal authority.

Source:telegraphindia.com

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Government of India implements 20th amendment to Birth and Death Registration Act

March 22, 2025

By Najmuddin Ahmad Farooqi

The Government of India has officially enacted the 20th Amendment to the Birth and Death Registration Act (RBD Amendment Act 20 of 2023), introducing significant changes to the registration process of births and deaths in the country. This amendment, which has sparked considerable discussion and concerns, particularly among Indian Muslims, aims to streamline record-keeping and establish a centralized digital database.

The original Birth and Death Registration Act of 1969, implemented under the Congress government, mandated birth registration. However, due to the widespread practice of home births—especially in rural areas—many individuals did not register their births at the time. Instead, estimated ages were recorded based on self-assessment, with matriculation certificates or affidavits often serving as proof of birth.

With the passage of the RBD Amendment Act 20 of 2023, the government has now made it mandatory for birth certificates to serve as the sole and definitive proof of an individual’s birth date and place for various official purposes. As per Clause 3 of the amendment, a birth certificate will now be required for:

Admission to educational institutions

Issuance of a driving license

Inclusion in voter lists

Registration of marriages

Appointments in government or public sector jobs

Issuance of passports

Issuance of Aadhaar numbers

Other purposes as determined by the central government

The amendment assigns the responsibility of maintaining these records to the Registrar General of India, who also oversees the census database. The government has clarified through Gazette Notification No. 13, dated August 11, 2023, that this measure is part of a broader initiative to digitize and centralize birth and death records. The new system will allow authorities to verify official documents efficiently and facilitate access to various government schemes.

A crucial aspect of the amendment is that it applies only to births and deaths occurring on or after the enactment date. However, the government has also provided an opportunity for individuals born before the enactment to register their births retrospectively. This provision enables individuals aged 30, 40, 50, or older to obtain an official birth registration, ensuring that they meet the new documentation requirements.

Given the concerns surrounding the amendment, an RTI (Right to Information) request was filed with the Ministry of Home Affairs on February 23, 2024, seeking further clarification. A response to this RTI was received in on this matter. The government maintains that this amendment is a step towards greater efficiency and transparency in public record-keeping, though its implications on marginalized communities remain a subject of debate.

Public Concerns and Reactions

The implementation of this amendment has led to significant public discourse, particularly among Indian Muslims, who view it in the context of broader demographic policies and potential future implications. Some regional news agencies have raised concerns over the accessibility and implementation of the centralized database, fearing that it could disproportionately impact certain communities that lack proper documentation.

As the government moves forward with the execution of the RBD Amendment Act 20 of 2023, further clarifications and awareness campaigns may be necessary to address concerns and ensure a smooth transition for all affected citizens.

Source:muslimmirror.com

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18 BJP MLAs ousted from Karnataka House; Muslim quota bill passed

Mar 22, 2025,

BENGALURU: Both Houses of Karnataka legislature Friday passed the controversial bill granting 4% reservation to Muslims in securing govt contracts despite opposition from BJP-JD(S). The bill was passed in the assembly soon after 18 BJP MLAs were suspended for six months for 'disrespecting the Chair' while vociferously demanding a probe into alleged honey-trap cases.

The bill seeking to reserve 4% of civil work contracts up to Rs 2 crore and goods and services contracts up to Rs 1 crore for Muslims was passed in the assembly amid uproar without debate while the council witnessed a heated discussion before it was cleared.

BJP and JD(S) urged governor Thaawar Chand Gehlot to reject the bill, calling it "unconstitutional" as the quota was religion-based. Calling the Congress move a part of "minority appeasement politics", BJP announced a statewide agitation starting next week. However, law minister H K Patil, who piloted the bill, termed it a step towards social justice.

The suspension of the 18 MLAs in the assembly came a few minutes before the bill was taken up. Announcing the suspension, speaker U T Khader said, "This seat is not just a Chair but a symbol of democracy, truth, and justice. Speaking from it is a matter of pride, and every member must uphold its dignity. Let this be a lesson for us to respect the Constitution and parliamentary traditions."

Despite the suspension, the MLAs refused to leave the House, prompting marshals to physically evict them. The suspended legislators stormed the speaker's podium, tore official documents, and hurled paper pieces at speaker's desk.

Those suspended include BJP chief whip Doddanna Gouda Patil. The protest erupted after the govt declined to order a judicial or CBI probe into cooperation minister KN Rajanna's claims that he and 48 others, including legislators, central leaders, and judges, were targets of a honey-trap attempt.

Source:indiatimes.com

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When Kerala Muslims thank Hindu royals for masjid fight

Mar 22, 2025

KOZHIKODE: At a time when historical sites and tombs linked to medieval Muslim rulers have become flashpoints in the country, the Muslim community of Kuttichira in Kerala upholds a tradition of communal harmony in keeping with the true spirit of Ramzan. Their representatives will visit descendants of the Zamorins, erstwhile Hindu rulers of Malabaron Sunday, the 22nd day of Ramzan, as thanksgiving for defending the historical Mishkal Mosque from a Portuguese attack on the same day in 1510.

The visit also commemorates the Zamorin’s retribution — he captured the Portuguese Chaliyam Fort in 1571 and reconstructed the mosque using the remnants of the fort. This year, representatives of various organisations in Kuttichira — including descendants of the Qazi family, the mosque committee and Qazi Foundation — will visit the Thiruvanoor residence of the present titular Zamorin, K C Unni Anujan Raja, on Sunday. The delegation, led by acting qazi of Kozhikode and qazi of Mishkal Mosque Safeer Saqafi, will also present a memento to him.

In 1510, when Portuguese forces led by Afonso de Albuquerque attempted to burn down Mishkal Mosque, the then Zamorin dispatched a 500-member army, largely comprising Nair warriors. The warriors fought alongside local Muslims, and some of them even laid down their lives resisting the attack, though part of the mosque was burnt down and its mihrab (pulpit) destroyed. The mosque, established by Arab merchant Nakhooda Mishkal, bears scars of the attack.

“The visit is a reaffirmation of our social bonds of togetherness and harmony. We have been following it for the past decade to ensure the history of camaraderie does not get drowned in present-day controversies,” said M V Ramsi Ismail, a descendant of Qazi family and general secretary of Qazi Foundation.

Ismail said the Portuguese specifically targeted Mishkal Mosque to drive a wedge into the warm relations that existed between Arabs and Zamorins. “Kuttichira is a Muslim neighbourhood but it has some prominent places of worship of other communities, like Shri Bhagwan Kalikund Parshvanath Jain Temple and Gujarati temple. The communities have been living in amity,” he said.

Historian P Sivadasan said the Mishkal-Zamorin bond has significance in today’s context, where attempts to steer the country away from the spirit of cultural symbiosis and to rake up ownership disputes over religious sites were on the rise. “The Zamorin’s forces were able to crush the Portuguese in 1571 and capture Chaliyam Fort, which was the first defeat suffered by Europeans in India. The fort was dismantled and, in a symbolic gesture, the Zamorin provided timber from the fort to repair Mishkal Mosque,” he said.

Source:indiatimes.com

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‘If anyone dares…’: Ajit Pawar's warning against those who intimidate Muslims after Nagpur violence

Mar 22, 2025

Maharashtra deputy chief minister Ajit Pawar recently pledged strong action against those who attempt to intimidate the Muslim community or create communal discord in the state.

Pawar, who also holds Maharashtra's finance portfolio, remarked during an Iftar gathering in Mumbai as part of his emphasis on unity and social harmony in the state, which recently witnessed communal violence.

"If anyone dares to intimidate our Muslim brothers and sisters or tries to create communal discord, they will not be spared," news agency ANI quoted him as saying.

Assuring the Muslim community of his support, he added, "Your brother Ajit Pawar is with you. If anyone dares to intimidate our Muslim brothers and sisters or tries to create communal discord, they will not be spared."

Pawar's remarks come days after Nagpur witnessed clashes following a rumour that religious books were burnt during a right-wing protest demanding the removal of Aurangzeb's tomb.

Violent clashes erupted with stones hurled at police amid rumours during an agitation. The situation is back to normalcy as the curfew imposed in several areas was lifted.

At least 14 more persons have been arrested in connection with the violence in Nagpur earlier this week, taking the total number of arrests to 105, a senior police official has said.

According to the police, 14 persons, including 10 juveniles, were nabbed on Friday.

Meanwhile, Maharashtra has witnessed intense political debates over the Nagpur violence, which erupted amid the Mahayuti government's demand to remove Aurangzeb's grave from Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar.

Ajit Pawar on communal harmony

The Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader stressed the significance of communal harmony, especially in light of upcoming festivals like Gudi Padwa and Eid.

"Many great leaders like Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, Dr BR Ambedkar, Jyotiba Phule, and others have shown the path of social progress by taking along all religions and castes. We have to carry forward this legacy. India is a symbol of unity and diversity. We have just celebrated Holi, and now Gudi Padwa and Eid are approaching. These festivals teach us to live together. Our real strength lies in unity," Pawar said.

Earlier on Thursday, the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) organised an Iftar gathering in the national capital, attended by leaders from different political parties.

Congress MP Shashi Tharoor, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, and Congress Parliamentary Party Chairperson Sonia Gandhi were among those in the Iftar party.

Other senior leaders, including Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav and SP MP Jaya Bachchan, also attended the event.

Source:hindustantimes.com

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RLD likely to seek ministerial berth for its Muslim MLA

Mar 22, 2025,

Lucknow: Amid speculation that UP chief minister Yogi Adityanath might expand his cabinet soon, BJP ally Rashtriya Lok Dal is considering to pitch Ashraf Ali Khan, one of its two Muslim MLAs, for a ministerial berth.

RLD has total nine MLAs and is currently represented by its MLA Anil Kumar, a Dalit, in the ministry. Sources in RLD said the party has settled on the name of Khan, who had defeated BJP's Suresh Rana by around 11,000 votes in the 2022 UP elections, for the second ministerial berth.

Rana was an accused in the 2013 Muzaffarnagar riots that brought Jat and Dalit communities into confrontation with the Muslim community. The riots are believed to have shaken the foundation of RLD, which got decimated in the 2014 and 2019 Lok Sabha elections and the 2017 assembly elections.

As an ally of Samajwadi Party then, RLD managed to garner Muslim support to win nine seats in the 2022 assembly elections. Besides Ashraf, RLD's other Muslim MLA, Ghulam Mohammad, won from Siwalkhas seat in Meerut by defeating BJP's Maninder Pal by around 9,000 votes in 2022.

Interestingly, both the Muslim MLAs voted in favour of BJP during the Rajya Sabha elections in Feb last year. This was after RLD joined the BJP-led NDA before the 2024 Lok Sabha elections following the conferment of Bharat Ratna on former PM and the grandfather of RLD chief Jayant Chaudhary, Charan Singh. Jayant is a minister in the Narendra Modi govt at the Centre.

RLD's plan to promote a Muslim face is seen as a strategic move to strengthen its ties with Muslims, who play a decisive role in swinging the electoral fortunes in many constituencies in west UP.

By proposing a Muslim for a ministerial position, experts said, RLD could be aiming to address the concerns of the Muslim community while strengthening its position within the alliance. A senior RLD functionary requesting anonymity said the idea is to play up a possible Dalit-Muslim combination card as part of preparation for the 2027 assembly elections.

Sources said RLD has been trying to tap Muslim community which has been showing signs of discontent vis-a-vis their perceived marginalisation under the BJP govt. This combination could also signal to the electorate that RLD is prioritising inclusive politics and seeking to build a broader coalition, analysts said.

Source:indiatimes.com

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BJP accuses Congress of doing ‘contract jihad’ in Karnataka

March 21, 2025

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Friday (March 21, 2025) accused the Congress of doing “contract jihad” in Karnataka, stating that a Bill extending 4% reservation to the Muslim community in government contracts was passed in the State Assembly.

At a press conference, BJP MP and national spokesperson Sambit Patra alleged that the Congress was using appeasement in a bid to achieve its political ambitions and it was creating a division in the country.

“Today, it has started from 4% and tomorrow it can go up to 100%. In a similar way, in 1947 and before that, due to Nehruji’s ambition of becoming the Prime Minister, what had started as a mere spark ended in the country’s partition... today, Rahul Gandhi is following his footsteps....,” he said.

“This 4% Muslim reservation has been given under the OBC category... this is an infringement of the rights of OBCs of the country. All the communities from the OBC, ST, and SC communities should unite in solidarity against the decision of the Karnataka government and Rahul Gandhi,” he said.

He said on August 24, 2024, 12 Muslim MLAs of the Congress party in Karnataka had sought reservation for the community in government contracts, and their request was accepted by the State government following a consultation with, and approval of, Mr. Gandhi. He accused the Congress leader of being politically unfit.

The BJP leader said, “This year’s Karnataka Budget seemed more like a “Muslim” Budget, in which provisions for ₹6,000 monthly allowance has been made for Imams; 4% reservation in public construction contracts; ₹50,000 assistance to Muslims for marriage; ₹150 crore for the development and upkeep of Waqf properties and graveyards; ₹100 crore for Urdu schools; ₹50 lakh for Muslim cultural programmes; ITI colleges in Muslim majority areas; and 50% fee waiver for Muslim students...”.

“Above all, ₹1,000 crore has been allotted to develop Muslim colonies,” he said, stating that the State government’s decision for reservation on religious grounds was unconstitutional and it would be challenged in the court.

Source:thehindu.com

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Amid din, Karnataka passes Bill providing 4% reservation for Muslims in public contracts

March 22, 2025

Amid the din in Karnataka Assembly over Opposition protests demanding a judicial probe into allegations of honey-trap, a Bill was passed Friday to provide 4% reservation for Muslims in public contracts.

Leader of Opposition R Ashoka termed the Karnataka Transparency in Public Procurements (Amendment) Bill, which was piloted by Law and Parliamentary Affairs Minister H K Patil, “unconstitutional”.

The Cabinet last Friday had approved an amendment to the Karnataka Transparency in Public Procurements (KTPP) Act, reserving for Muslims 4% of contracts in (civil) works valued up to `2 crore, and goods/services procurement contracts up to Rs 1 crore. This was announced by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah in his 2025-26 Budget, presented on March 7.

At present, Karnataka has reservation in civil works contracts for SC/STs (24%) and OBC contractors belonging to Category-1 (4%) and Category-2A (15%). The amendment to the KTPP Act extended the reservation benefits to the 2B category, which has 4% reservation for Muslims.

The Bill was passed at the end of the last day of the Budget session after the suspension of 18 MLAs for disrespecting the Speaker’s chair. BJP and JD(S) legislators submitted a joint petition to Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot against the Bill, which they claimed, was meant to “only polarize the societies” and would “destroy the social fabric, harmony among the religious societies”.

The petition urged the Governor to cancel the “unconstitutionally moved Bill”.

As per the Bill, it aims to overcome the unemployment problem in the Backward Classes and to encourage their participation in construction works, not exceeding 4% for the persons belonging to the category 2B of backward classes (Muslims), out of the total number of government construction works up to Rs 2 crore.

Earlier in the day, two other Bills which provided for a significant hike in the salaries of ministers and legislators were also passed.

The Karnataka Ministers Salaries and Allowances (Amendment) Bill on salaries for ministers provided for a hike in the monthly salary of the chief minister from Rs 75,000 to Rs 1.5 lakh and of the ministers from Rs 60,000 to Rs 1.25 lakh. Similarly, sumptuary allowance for CM and ministers was increased from Rs 4.5 lakh to Rs 5 lakh. Salaries of ministers of state also increased from Rs 50,000 to Rs 75,000, apart from hike in other allowances provided to them.

The recurring expenditure due to the hike will be Rs 10 crore per annum, the Bill said.

The Karnataka Legislature Salaries, Pensions and Allowances (Amendment) Bill provided for a hike in the monthly salaries of the Speaker of Legislative Assembly and Chairman of Legislative Council from Rs 75,000 to Rs 1.25 lakh, and sumptuary allowance from Rs 4 lakh to Rs 5 lakh. The monthly salaries of the Leader of Opposition will increase from Rs 60,000 to Rs 80,000 and of MLAs and MLCs from Rs 40,000 to Rs 80,000. The total recurring expenditure due to the hike will be Rs 52 crore per annum, the Bill said.

Other allowances of MLAs and MLCs, and pensions of former legislators were also increased. “There is a considerable increase in the cost of living. Therefore, it is considered necessary to enhance the salaries and allowances of the parliamentary functionaries and the legislators…” the statement of objects and reasons of the Bill said.

Source:indianexpress.com

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Dhami government to provide Eid gift kits to poor Muslims

PR Singh

March 21, 2025

Uttarakhand’s BJP government will offer food and clothes as Eid gifts to economically poor Muslims in the state. The Dhami government will dole out Eid gifts as kits with the help of State Wakf Board that will identify the beneficiaries.

Eid gifts provided by the Dhami government to the economically weaker muslim community members on Eid will be in the form of kits carrying daily needs items.

The gift kits will include clothes for women members of the family, milk, dry fruits, sugar, vermicelli and rice, informed Uttarakhand Waqf Board Chairman Shadab Shams. Shams stated that the decision to support poor members of the muslim community was taken in a recently held online meeting of the board and its affiliated committees in the state.

According to the Chairman of the Waqf Boardclothes in gift kits will be for mothers, sisters and daughters in the families. “CEO Wakf board has been instructed to make all arrangements to distribute Eid gifts to the people. It has been decided that this kit will be made available by the respective Waqf Committees. Committees lacking adequate resources to prepare gift kits will be helped by bigger committees to manage their plans. State Waqf Board office can also be contacted for this” said Shams.

Uttarakhand wakf board has also decided to review the rents being paid to it by those who have hired its properties.

“Board will soon review the rents being paid on its properties across the state. Large number of people have rented out the wakf properties but the rent amount has always remained almost negligible, only symbolic token amounts. It has decided that Uttarakhand Waqf Board will now fix rent according to the circle rates as fixed by the government. At the same time, action will also be taken against illegal occupants” said board Chairman.

Shams added that the state government will soon nominate two members in the Board to take action against illegal occupants of the wakf properties.

According to Shadab Shams, hundreds of acres of the waqf properties are under encroachments which will be taken back in coming days.”A complaint will be filed in the Land Fraud Committee to take action against encroachments of wakf properties. Several such properties have been identified in Dehradun and other parts of Uttarakhand. Buildings and other infrastructures developed on encroached lands will be dismantled to construct residential apartments, schools and hospitals” said Shams.

Source:thestatesman.com

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https://www.thestatesman.com/india/dhami-government-to-provide-eid-gift-kits-to-poor-muslims-1503410609.html

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Eid al-Fitr heritage walk in Coimbatore: Explore Athar Jamath mosque and Karumbukadai

March 21, 2025

PRAVEEN SUDEVAN

As Coimbatore prepares for Eid al-Fitr, a heritage walk invites residents to step into the heart of the celebrations. Organised by KV Siddhartha of Coimbatore Art and Theatrical Society (CATS), the Talk-A-Walk Eid special will take participants through some of the city’s most vibrant areas — Athar Jamath Masjid, Big Bazaar Street, and Karumbukadai.

Eid al-Fitr, which marks the end of Ramzan, is a time of spiritual renewal, community gatherings, and festive indulgence. During the month of Ramzan, Muslims fast from dawn to dusk, breaking their fast at sunset with iftar — often starting with dates. The festival itself is a celebration of gratitude and togetherness, where families come together for prayers, feasting, and charity.

It is this spirit of festivity that Siddhartha hopes to capture in the Talk-A-Walk event. “The heritage walks we conduct have been going on for a couple of years, but this is the first time we’re formally organising one around Eid,” he says. “Last year, my wife and I visited Karumbukadai and were captivated by the vibrant colours and atmosphere. I felt others should experience it too, to better relate to the occasion.”

The walking route

The walk will commence at the Athar Jamath Masjid, a mosque deeply rooted in Coimbatore’s history. “It was established by perfume traders from Tirunelveli, which is why it is named after athar (perfume),” Siddhartha explains. “Unlike some of the more ornamental mosques, it is relatively simple, yet significant.”

From the mosque, participants will move through the bustling Big Bazaar area, where markets, roadside eateries, and local vendors will be in full swing, preparing for Eid. “This event is not just about fasting — there is a lot of feasting and shopping involved,” Siddhartha says. “I can safely assume that the roadside shops and eateries will be packed with people buying sweets, clothes, and other festival essentials.”

The final leg of the walk will take participants to Karumbukadai, a locality known for its strong cultural identity. “We’ll drive under the flyover and explore the area, but the walk needs a clear start and end point,” Siddhartha explains.

Not just a walk

For Siddhartha, these heritage walks are about fostering a deeper connection with one’s city. “Often, we take our local heritage for granted. Through Talk-A-Walk, I have learned so much about Coimbatore’s history, and I believe others should too.”

He says that participants are free to explore the neighbourhood for an hour, after which they will meet once again before wrapping up.

Heritage walks like these, Siddhartha believes, are essential to fostering civic pride and understanding. “If you want to take pride in your town and understand what changes can be made, you need to experience it firsthand. Otherwise, it’s just hearsay. We’re looking for 12 participants, and maybe half of them will later organise something independently with their families.”

On 30 March, at 6pm. With only 12 spots available, those keen on joining can register by sending ‘25C-034D+Name’ via WhatsApp to 98942 88422.

Source:thehindu.com

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https://www.thehindu.com/life-and-style/travel/eid-al-fitr-heritage-walk-coimbatore-athar-jamath-masjid-and-karumbukadai/article69329288.ece

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Ensure murder convict can keep Quran, offer prayers 5 times a day during Ramadan, Allahabad HC directs Etawah jail head

by Manish Sahu

March 21, 2025

The Allahabad High Court this week directed the jail superintendent of Central Jail, Etawah, to ensure that a prisoner’s religious practice of offering prayers five times a day during Ramadan was not “interfered with” and that he was “allowed” to keep the Quran in his possession.

A bench of Justices Ashwani Kumar Mishra and Nand Prabha Shukla issued the order on Monday while hearing a petition filed by Uzma Abid, wife of murder convict Farhan Ahmed, who is lodged in the jail’s high-security section of the jail. Abid had alleged that Ahmed was not being allowed to offer prayers as per the religious practices in the month of Ramadan and the Quran had been taken from him.

The government counsel submitted in court that the petitioner’s grievance would be examined by the jail authorities in accordance with law.

“In the facts of the case, we dispose of this petition with a direction upon the Jail Superintendent of Central Jail, Etawah to ensure that the religious practices followed by the petitioner’s husband of offering prayers at five times in the month of Ramadan is not interfered with and he is also allowed to retain Quran with him. We may clarify that the routine security measures which are being followed for protection of inmates inside the jail, however, shall continue to exist,” the court said.

Ahmed was among those convicted last year in the murder of Bahujan Samaj Party MLA Raju Pal and two others, Abid’s lawyer Deepak Kumar said.

On January 25, 2005, Raju Pal was on his way home when he was attacked by armed assailants in the Dhoomanganj area of Prayagraj. While Raju Pal and his associates Devilal Pal and Sandeep Yadav died, Ruksana, Saif alias Saifulla, and Om Prakash Pal were injured in the attack. Among those booked in the murder case were former MP Atiq Ahmed and his brother Ashraf — both died before the judgment in the case was pronounced.

The murder was a fallout of political rivalry between Atiq and Raju Pal and the case was investigated by the Central Bureau of Investigation. Last year, a CBI court in Lucknow convicted six people, including Ahmed, in the case.

Source:indianexpress.com

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https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/lucknow/murder-convict-quran-offer-prayers-ramadan-allahabad-hc-etawah-jail-head-9898342/

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Europe

 

Manchester City hosts Iftar event at Etihad for Muslim supporters

21 Mar 2025

Manchester City opened its doors to Muslim supporters for Ramadan this week. Community representatives and staff held a special Iftar event at the Etihad stadium on Monday evening (March 17).

The occasion marks the fourth annual community Iftar hosted by the Club, with more than 120 guests attending. The evening began with a recitation from the Quran, before representatives from the club and City in the community took the stage to share the ongoing efforts being made to foster a more inclusive environment for Muslim communities.

As dusk approached, a live Adhan, the sacred call to prayer, was played throughout the stadium before guests were offered dates and water to help them break their fast.

With the setting sun, evening prayers took place, followed by a variety of South Asian-inspired food offerings, providing an opportunity for guests to connect and celebrate together as they enjoyed their meal.

Mohammed Ullah, City Matter’s representative for Black, Asian, or Mixed Heritage supporters and chaplain at both Manchester University and Manchester Metropolitan University as well as co-founder of Blue Crescent, Muslim Supporters OSC, said: “Our fourth Iftar was a remarkable occasion, uniting faith, football, and community. As co-founder of Blue Crescent I’m proud that the Club partnership sets a powerful example, inspiring others to follow.

Source:manchestereveningnews.co.uk

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https://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/whats-on/manchester-city-hosts-iftar-event-31256271

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UK anti-Muslim activist 'Tommy Robinson' loses challenge to segregation in jail

21 March 2025

LONDON (Reuters) - British anti-Muslim activist Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, who counts U.S. billionaire Elon Musk among his supporters, was on Friday refused permission to bring a legal challenge over the decision to hold him in segregation in prison.

Yaxley-Lennon, known by the pseudonym Tommy Robinson, was jailed for 18 months last October after admitting contempt of court.

The self-styled journalist breached an injunction which prevented him repeating libellous statements about a Syrian refugee he wrongly claimed had attacked a girl at his school.

Yaxley-Lennon has been kept apart from other prisoners at Woodhill Prison in central England for more than 140 days since then because the governor said he was at risk of being attacked.

He says the decision is "politically motivated because of my activism and my beliefs", his lawyer Alisdair Williamson quoted Yaxley-Lennon to London's High Court on Thursday.

Yaxley-Lennon sought to challenge his segregation on the grounds that it was a breach of his right to freedom from inhuman or degrading treatment.

But Judge Martin Chamberlain refused permission, saying in a ruling that the decision to segregate Yaxley-Lennon was "taken for his own protection and in the interests of preserving the safety of other prisoners and staff".

The judge said Yaxely-Lennon is able to spend around three hours per day out of his cell, has work in the prison which gives him additional time out of his cell and can have visits from and phone calls with his friends and family.

Chamberlain said it was therefore "not accurate to refer to Mr Yaxley-Lennon's regime as 'solitary confinement' at all".

Source:yahoo.com

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https://uk.news.yahoo.com/uk-anti-muslim-activist-tommy-102942236.html

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Hundreds join interfaith Iftar celebration in Newport

21ST MARCH

By Sallie Phillips

More than 150 people shared in the spirit of Ramadan during a heartwarming community interfaith Iftar celebration in Newport.

Chief Constable Mark Hobrough and Superintendent Laura Bartley joined staff from Newport County, Dragons Rugby, Professional Footballers’ Association, and the local community, at Rodney Parade on Tuesday 18 March.

Show Racism the Red Card Wales, a leading anti-racism education charity, organised the event which helped unite people from different faiths and backgrounds, promoting dialogue, unity, and mutual understanding.

Iftar is the fast-breaking evening meal of Muslims during Ramadan and children at Maindee Primary School presented the five pillars of Islam.

Dragons rugby player Ashton Hewitt shared his experiences of growing up in Newport and starting his rugby journey at the city’s Pill Harriers club.

He highlighted the importance of strong leadership, honesty and commitment from organisations in delivering change through inclusion and the power of sport.

During the celebration, Sheykh Wasim Kempson led the prayers, while people were able to pray at the side of the pitch.

As the sun began to set over Newport, people sat down to enjoy a mouth-watering spread of traditional Iftar delicacies to celebrate the unity that Ramadan brings.

Dean Pymble, campaign manager for Show Racism the Red Card Wales, said: “Sport has the unique power of bringing people from different backgrounds together uniting them with a common passion, Show Racism the Red Card has utilised the brand and power of professional sport clubs since it’s inceptions in 1996 to engage and educate people against all forms of racism.

"This year, in partnership with the COSARAF Charitable Foundation and our other delivery partners, we aimed to break barriers, build understanding, and celebrate diversity through our interfaith community Iftar celebrations. “

Gwent Police Chief Constable Mark Hobrough, the UK lead on Hate Crime, said: "Events like this help foster understanding and solidarity between communities, countering divisions and stereotypes.

“At Gwent Police, our mission statement is to become an inclusive, caring, connected organisation providing an outstanding service to our communities.

“We want Newport and Gwent, as a whole, to be a harmonious and welcoming place for people of all religious beliefs.

“We’re proud to be involved in this event because interfaith iftars offer an opportunity for people of different beliefs to come together, share experiences, and build lasting friendships across faiths and cultures.”

Source:southwalesargus.co.uk

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https://www.southwalesargus.co.uk/news/25021096.hundreds-join-interfaith-iftar-celebration-newport/

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Deal or no deal? Why Trump is struggling to win fast ceasefire in Ukraine

22 March 2025

When Donald Trump met President Zelensky in New York last September, the then US presidential candidate exuded confidence he could bring the war in Ukraine to an early end. "If we win, I think we're going to get it resolved very quickly," he said.

How quickly he meant varied over time. In a TV debate a few days earlier, Mr Trump had promised he would "get it settled before I even become president". This was an escalation on his previous commitment in May 2023 to stop the fighting in the first 24 hours of his presidency.

Mr Trump has now been in office for more than two months and the penny may be beginning to drop in the White House that trying to end a conflict as bitter and complex as this may take time.

In a television interview last weekend, the US president admitted that when he promised to end the war in a day, he was "being a little bit sarcastic".

There are many reasons for the slower progress than Team Trump may have anticipated.

First, the president's belief in the power of his personal, one-on-one diplomacy may have been misplaced. He has long believed any international problem can be solved if he sits down with another leader and agrees a deal. Mr Trump first spoke to Vladimir Putin on 12 February, an hour-and-a-half conversation he described as "highly productive". The two leaders spoke again on 18 March.

But it is clear these telephone calls failed to secure the immediate 30-day interim ceasefire Mr Trump wanted. The only substantive concession he squeezed out of Mr Putin was a promise to end Russian attacks on Ukrainian energy facilities, a commitment he is accused by Ukraine of breaking within hours of the call.

Second, the Russian president has made it clear he does not intend to be rushed. His first public comments about the negotiations came last week in a press conference that was a whole month after his telephone call with Mr Trump.

Mr Putin showed he was resolutely opposed to the US two-stage strategy of seeking an interim ceasefire before talking about a longer-term settlement. Instead, he said any talks must address what he sees as "the root causes of the war", namely his fears an expanding Nato alliance and the very existence of Ukraine as a sovereign state somehow present a threat to Russia's security. He also set out detailed questions and conditions that must be answered and met before any deal could be agreed.

Third, the US strategy of directing its initial focus on Ukraine may have been misjudged. The White House came to the belief that President Zelensky was the obstacle to peace. Western diplomats acknowledge the Ukrainian government was slow to realise just how much the world had changed with the arrival of Mr Trump.

But the US pressure on Kyiv that led to the now infamous confrontation in the Oval Office - when Mr Trump and his vice-president, JD Vance, harangued the Ukrainian leader - consumed time, effort and political capital.

It also ruptured transatlantic relations, setting Europe and the US at odds, another diplomatic problem that took time to settle. All the while Vladimir Putin sat back and enjoyed the show, biding his time.

Fourth, the sheer complexity of the conflict makes any resolution hard. The Ukrainian offer was initially for an interim ceasefire in the air and at sea. The idea was that this would be relatively straightforward to monitor.

But in last week's talks in Jeddah, the US insisted any immediate ceasefire should also include the more than 1200km-long front line in the east. Instantly that made the logistics of verifying any ceasefire more complicated. This, of course, was then rejected by Mr Putin.

But even his agreement to the more modest proposal - to end attacks on energy infrastructure - is not without its problems. It is the details about that proposal which will occupy much of the technical negotiations that are expected to take place in Saudi Arabia on Monday. Military and energy experts will draw up detailed lists of potential power plants – nuclear or otherwise – that might be protected.

They will also try to agree which weapons systems should not be used. But agreeing the difference between energy and other civilian infrastructure may take some time. Remember: Ukraine and Russia are not talking to one another; they are engaging separately and bilaterally with the US which is promising to shuttle between both sides. This again adds to the time.

Fifth, the US focus on the economic benefits of a ceasefire distracted attention from the priority of ending the fighting. Mr Trump has spent time trying to agree a framework deal giving US firms access to Ukrainian critical minerals. Some saw this as the US investing in Ukraine's future - others as it extorting the country's natural resources.

President Zelensky argued initially he could agree a deal only if the US promised to provide Ukraine with security guarantees to deter future Russian aggression. The White House refused, saying the presence of US mining firms and workers would be deterrent enough. Eventually Mr Zelensky conceded defeat and said he would agree a minerals deal without security guarantees. But despite that, the US has yet to sign the agreement, hoping again to improve the terms, possibly by including access to or even ownership of Ukrainian nuclear power plants.

Ending wars can be complex and time consuming. We would not have got to this stage without Trump's pushing, but progress has not been as quick or simple as he believed. In December 2018, as he campaigned for the presidency, Volodymyr Zelensky suggested negotiations with Vladimir Putin would be quite straightforward. "You need to talk in a very simple way," he told the Ukrainian journalist, Dmytro Gordon. '"What do you want, what are your conditions?" And I'd tell them: 'Here are our points.' We would agree somewhere in the middle."

Well, on the evidence of the last two months, it may be harder than that.

Source:bbc.com

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https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c89yngk2z7qo

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£1,200 raised at annual East Lancs Hospice iftar gathering

March 22, 2025

By Shuiab Khan

Guests at an iftar event in Blackburn heard about how East Lancs Hospice is helping families from across the region.

The event was open to people from across the borough and took place at the hospice off Park Lee Road.

The iftar is the time of day Muslims break their fast at sunset.

The event raised £1,200 to support patient care at the hospice and was also broadcast live on ITV Granada.

Councillor Suleman Khonat welcomed guests to the gathering and spoke about how he got involved with the hospice.

He said: “The event went well, and it was so good to see so many people of all faiths in attendance. I am pleased and grateful to East Lancs Hospice for organising the event.

“The special way of caring they provide is vital and important to many.

“I am also pleased that our local mosques and all the local communities are recognising the importance of the service and caring provided by hospice.

“The event not only encouraged people to come together and help each other in times of need but also brought different cultures and communities together.”

Cllr Salma Patel said: “It was wonderful to receive an invite from the hospice and join people from across the community.

“It gave people an opportunity to see what the hospice is all about and the services they provide and hopefully they share this with the wider community.

“East Lancs Hospice provides great care and it is vital to share this information in the BAME community as many may not be aware of the service it provides.”

Farida Khonat added: “The iftar is a moment where we eat and meet people who have had a chance to use the hospice facilities and people who came to see what we do for the first time.

“It was an opportunity for people in and around Blackburn find out more about this wonderful facility we have for everyone to use in times of sickness if needed.”

An East Lancs Hospice spokesperson said: “At East Lancashire Hospice, we are here to support each and every member of our community and we’re grateful to have shared this meaningful moment.

“We want to say thanks to Suleman Khonat for all his help organising this event and to Ismail Hafeji and Maulana Fazurrahman Hassan for speaking during the event.

“Thank you to everyone who attended, we look forward to welcoming you again at next year’s event.”

Source:lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/

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https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/news/25026838.1-200-raised-annual-east-lancs-hospice-iftar-gathering/

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How Bradford district has been marking Ramadan 2025

March 22, 2025

By Natasha Meek

RAMADAN is being marked across Bradford district as families start their daily fasts at dawn and break them at sunset.

Marked by Muslims across the world, Ramadan, also written as 'Ramadhan', is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar with the exact dates of the holy month changing every year based on moon cycles.

Ramadan 2025 started on Friday, February 28, when the new crescent moon first appeared in the night sky, and is set to end around Sunday, March 30 March.

Abubakar Qasim
Imam, from Masjid Al-Furqaan in Shipley, described Ramadan as a “month of mercy, reflection, and community”.

“Ramadhan is not just about fasting from food and drink,” said the Imam.

“Rather it is a journey of the heart, a time to purify the soul, strengthen our faith, and bring communities closer together in kindness and understanding.

“At a time when many around the world face hardship, Ramadhan reminds us of the suffering of others and calls upon us to be a source of hope and relief.

“Let Ramadhan be a reminder that no matter our background or beliefs, we all share the same hopes for peace, justice, and kindness.”

Imam Sajid Safdar, of Masjid-E-Umar in Girlington, said some of the most precious moments of Ramadan are late night prayers and praying to God before breaking one's fast.

“As a Muslim we pray the late night prayers standing for over an hour,” he said.

“For an hour we stand in front of God, you forget the pain, you forget it’s a long time. It’s your opportunity to reconnect with the book of God, with God himself.

“We just bring ourselves back to reality and that’s the essence of all worship. The whole purpose of doing worship, you’re like a beggar in front of God. That moment is very special for me as an Imam.”

Dr Javed Bashir, lecturer and founder of the Professional Muslim Institute, has been attending iftars throughout the district.

An ‘Iftar’ means the moment when Muslims sit together and break their fast, often starting with dates before enjoying a meal and drink.

The Bradford district enjoys a number of community iftars where people of all faiths, no faiths, and different backgrounds come together.

This includes the recent Unity Iftar, attended by Hafiz Mohammed Azad Imam at Masjid Hira.

“Ramadan is a time when communities and people come together,” said Javed.

“It brought in people of different faiths, who have never been to a mosque before. It breaks down the barriers and hopefully that should carry on.

“They really enjoyed it. A lot of times people hold beliefs which are not true about religions and faiths unless people come together and start talking. They find similarities. There’s not much difference between Lent and Ramadan, there’s a lot of commonalities between different faiths.”

Wedding photographer Georgi Majid, the founder of Global Peace Journey, spoke about why Muslims fast during Ramadan.

“Fasting is seen as a way to purify the soul and strengthen one's connection with Allah,” he said.

“Fasting is also seen as a way to develop empathy for those who are less fortunate, as Muslims experience the feeling of hunger and thirst.”

Saliha Sadiq, CEO and mental health director at the Millan Centre in Manningham, has been inspired by the charitable element of Ramadan by making sure women could access free meals to open their fast.

She also made sure single parents and vulnerable women - including those facing financial struggles or domestic violence - could focus on Ramadan without extra stress.

“Providing meals will help the women and children look forward to a healthy meal when opening their fast,” said Saliha.

“Financial and food insecurity can be a major stress. Free meals will ease this burden, allowing them to focus on spiritual and personal wellbeing.”

Bradford’s Dawoodi Bohras community has been marking Ramadan through litter picks, ladies seminars, delivering food parcels to people of all backgrounds and circumstances, and teaching children about sparrows and fitting bird feeders.

Raaj Cochin said: “While preserving our rich heritage, we also embrace progress, ensuring that our traditions evolve in harmony with the modern world."

Meanwhile the Muslim Women's Council has been exploring Bosnia during the 30th anniversary of Srebrenica genocide in Bosnia and Herzegovina as well as holding Quran recitals.

Bradford’s Ali Jatt is among a huge group of volunteers helping to deliver more than 17,000 chocolate cakes for Kashmir Orphan Relief Trust.

Now in its 10th year, the charity cakes have been used to raise funds for Kashmir following a deadly earthquake which impacted thousands of lives.

Source:thetelegraphandargus.co.uk

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https://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/news/25028124.bradford-district-marking-ramadan-2025/

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Slough mosque attack leaves man with fractured nose

21ST MARCH

By Timothy Edgley

A man has been arrested after a the vice-chair of a Slough mosque was punched in the face during an incident at a Slough mosque.

An investigation has been launched after reports of an assault at Manor Park Community Mosque on Villiers Road, Slough.

The incident took place just after 10pm on Saturday, March 15.

Police say a man in his fifties was punched several times in the face causing a fractured nose.

He required hospital treatment but has since been discharged.

A 67-year-old man from Slough has since been arrested on suspicion of assault.

He has been released on police bail until March 23.

Anyone with information can contact police by calling 101 or by making a report online, quoting reference number 43250127737.

Ujala Foundation, which runs the mosque, has since revealed that the victim was a trustee and vice-chair of the mosque premises.

The organisation said: "It is important to note that the safety and wellbeing of our worshippers is of paramount importance to us at Ujala Foundation.

"However, it is also critical to understand that the safety and wellbeing of our trustees, committee members and volunteers who help sustain the daily requirements and needs of the organisation is equally important.

"This incident has been reported to the police and there will be no hesitation to report subsequent incidents in the future.

"We have zero tolerance to violent behaviour at this Mosque."

Source:sloughobserver.co.uk

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https://www.sloughobserver.co.uk/news/25028858.slough-mosque-attack-leaves-man-fractured-nose/

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Muslim community gather in Leamington for Big Ifar

22 Mar 2025

OVER 100 guests gathered together for a Big Ifar in Leamington.

The fast-breaking evening meal of Muslims in Ramadan was hosted by the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community in Leamington and Coventry on Saturday March 15.

People from diverse backgrounds were brought together for an evening of unity, reflection and charitable giving.

The event raised over £1,000 for local charities, including Helping Hands, Galanas House Care Home, Feeding Coventry Foodbank, and the Midlands Humanity First Foodbank.

And the keynote address was delivered by Imam Shahzad Ahmad of the Baitul Ehsan Mosque, who spoke on *“Human Rights in the Holy Quran”.

Chief constable of Warwickshire, Alex Franklin-Smith, and local MP Matt Western, also addressed the gathering, commending the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community for their ongoing charitable efforts and dedication to fostering peace and social cohesion.

The evening concluded with the breaking of the fast, symbolizing the spirit of Ramadan – a month of gratitude, reflection, and generosity.

Source:leamingtonobserver.co.uk

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https://leamingtonobserver.co.uk/news/muslim-community-gather-in-leamington-for-big-ifar/

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Iceland minister who had a child with a teenager 30 years ago quits

22 March 2025

Iceland's minister for children has resigned after admitting she had a child with a teenager more than 30 years ago.

Ásthildur Lóa Thórsdóttir said in a media interview she had first started a relationship when the boy was 15 years old, and she was a 22-year-old counsellor at a religious group which he attended.

She then gave birth to his child when he was 16 years old and she was 23.

"It's been 36 years, a lot of things change in that time and I would definitely have dealt with these issues differently today," the 58-year-old told Icelandic media.

Iceland's prime minister, Kristrún Frostadóttir, told the press this was "a serious matter", although she said she knew little more than "the average person".

"This is a very personal matter [and] out of respect for the person concerned, I will not comment on the substance," she said.

According to Visir newspaper, Frostadóttir said she had only received confirmation of the story on Thursday night.

She immediately summoned the children's minister to her office, where she resigned.

Icelandic news agency RUV broke the story on Thursday night.

Thórsdóttir revealed in an interview with them that she had met the father, who RUV name as Eirík Ásmundsson, while she was working at the religious group Trú og líf (Religion and Life), which he had reportedly joined because of a difficult home life.

He was 15 years old and she was 22 at the time of their meeting. Thórsdóttir gave birth to their son when they were both a year older.

RUV report that the relationship was secret, but that Ásmundsson was present at his child's birth and spent the first year with him.

However, the news agency writes this changed when Thórsdóttir met her current husband.

They report they have seen documents Ásmundsson submitted to Iceland's justice ministry requesting access to his son, but that Thórsdóttir denied it, while also requesting - and receiving - child support payments from him over the following 18 years.

A relative of Ásmundsson tried twice to contact the Icelandic prime minister about the relationship last week.

Frostadóttir said last night that when the woman revealed it involved a government minister she asked for more information, which led to the revelation and the resignation.

In her TV interview with RUV last night, Thórsdóttir said she was upset that the woman had contacted the prime minister.

"I understand... what it looks like," she said, adding that it is "very difficult to get the right story across in the news today".

While the age of consent in Iceland is 15, it is illegal to have sex with a person under the age of 18 if you are their teacher or mentor, if they are financially dependent on you, or work for you. The maximum sentence for this crime is three years in jail.

Despite resigning from her ministerial job, Thórsdottir said she had no plans to leave parliament.

Source:bbc.com

Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story

https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cvgejln196vo

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Mideast

 

Hamas studying US ‘bridge’ proposal on ceasefire as Israel escalates return to war

March 21, 2025

CAIRO/DUBAI: Hamas said on Friday it was reviewing a US proposal to restore the Gaza ceasefire as Israel intensified military operations in the enclave to press the Palestinian militant group into freeing remaining Israeli hostages.

US special envoy Steve Witkoff’s “bridge” plan, presented last week, aims to extend the ceasefire into April, beyond Ramadan and Passover, to allow time for negotiations on a permanent cessation of hostilities.

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz said the military was ramping up air, land and sea strikes and would also evacuate civilians to the southern part of Gaza, speaking three days after Israel effectively abandoned the two-month-old truce.

Katz emphasized that Israel would continue its campaign until Hamas released further hostages and was totally defeated.

However, while Israel inflicted serious damage on Hamas with airstrikes this week that killed its Gaza government chief and other top officials, Palestinian and Israeli sources say Hamas has shown it can absorb major losses and still fight and govern.

Hamas said it was still debating Witkoff’s proposal and other ideas, with the goal of reaching a deal on prisoner releases, ending the war, and securing a complete Israeli military withdrawal from the Gaza Strip.

A Palestinian official, speaking on condition of anonymity, told Reuters Egypt had also put forward a bridging proposal, but Hamas had yet to respond. The official declined to provide details on the proposal, which he said was under consideration.

Two Egyptian security sources said Egypt suggested putting a timeline into place for releasing the rest of the hostages alongside a deadline for a full Israeli pullout from Gaza with US guarantees.

The sources said the US had signalled initial approval of the plan while Hamas and Israel’s responses were expected later on Friday.

A temporary, first phase of the truce ended at the start of this month, but Israel and Hamas could not overcome differences over terms for launching the second phase. Hamas held up further hostage releases and Israeli military action then resumed.

After two months of relative calm, Gazans were again fleeing for their lives after Israel launched a new, all-out air and ground campaign against Hamas on Tuesday, after again halting all aid deliveries into the narrow coastal enclave.

Katz warned that Hamas would lose more territory the longer it kept refusing to free remaining hostages. Of the more than 250 originally seized in Hamas’ October 2023 attack on Israel, 59 remain in Gaza, 24 of whom are thought to be alive.

HUMANITARIAN CRISIS WORSENING

Tuesday’s first day of renewed Israeli airstrikes killed more than 400 Palestinians, one of the deadliest days of the 17-month-old war.

On Friday, five people including three children were killed in an Israeli airstrike that hit a house in the Tuffah district of Gaza City in the enclave’s north, while two people — a woman and her daughter — were killed by tank fire in Abassan near Khan Younis in the south, according to Palestinian medics.

The United Nations’ Palestinian relief agency UNRWA, one of the largest providers of food aid in Gaza, warned on Friday it only had enough flour to distribute for the next six days.

“We can stretch that by giving people less, but we are talking days, not weeks,” UNRWA official Sam Rose told reporters in Geneva in an online briefing from central Gaza.

The humanitarian situation in Gaza was once again alarming due to massive reductions in distribution of aid, UNRWA said.

“Six of 25 bakeries that the World Food Programme were supporting had to close down. There are larger crowds on streets outside bakeries,” Rose added.

“This is the longest period since the start of conflict in October 2023 that no supplies whatsoever have entered Gaza. The progress we made as an aid system over the last six weeks of the ceasefire is being reversed,” Rose added.

Israel’s blockage has led to a hike in prices of essential foods as well as of fuel, forcing many to ration their meals.

The war began after Hamas militants attacked Israeli communities near the Gaza border on October 7, 2023, killing 1,200 people, according to Israeli tallies.

More than 49,000 Palestinians have been killed in the ensuing conflict, according to Gaza’s health authorities, with much of the densely populated territory reduced to rubble.

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Putin congratulates Ayatollah Khamenei, Pezeshkian on Nowruz

March 21, 2025

In the statement published by the TASS news agency, it was mentioned that heartfelt congratulations on the ancient Nowruz were sent to Ayatollah Khamenei and Pezeshkian.

In his message to Pezeshkian, Putin said, "Iran is a reliable friend and a good neighbor of Russia, and we will continue to develop our relations based on comprehensive strategic partnership for the benefit of both nations and in support of regional stability and security."

In his message to Pezeshkian, the Russian president also said, "I sincerely wish you health and success in your governmental activities, as well as peace and prosperity for your cherished compatriots."

Russian media also reported that Putin sent separate congratulatory messages to the presidents of Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan, who celebrate Nowruz.

Source:tehrantimes.com

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Cultural Seminar in Hajjah Commemorates Imam Ali’s Martyrdom

22 Mar 2025

A cultural seminar was held in Hajjah Governorate to mark the martyrdom anniversary of Imam Ali (PBUH).

During the event, Judge Abdulmajid Sharafuddin, a member of the Yemeni Scholars Association, highlighted Imam Ali’s virtues and his role in supporting Islam. He emphasized the importance of commemorating his martyrdom to strengthen his connection with his teachings, embrace his values of courage, wisdom, and piety, and apply them in daily life.

Speakers also stressed the importance of Ramadan, urging people to increase acts of worship, social solidarity, and reconciliation while encouraging youth participation in summer schools.

Dr. Abdullah Miyah, Dean of the Faculty of Quranic Sciences, reflected on Imam Ali’s contributions to Islam and the great loss the Muslim Ummah faced after his martyrdom. He called for a return to the Quran, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), and Imam Ali’s teachings to confront current challenges and aggression.

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Taiz symposium honors Imam Ali's martyrdom, draws parallels to modern conflict

22 Mar 2025

A cultural awareness symposium was held at the historic Muadh ibn Jabal Mosque in al-Jand, Taiz province, commemorating the martyrdom of Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib.

The event, themed "Imam Ali: Loving Him is Faith, Hating Him is Hypocrisy," was organized by the Guidance Sector, the Endowments Authority Office, and the Scholars and Learners Unit.

Province undersecretary Abdulwasie al-Shamsi and other local officials attended the symposium, where Province Planning and Development Officer Mohammed al-Washli emphasized the importance of remembering Imam Ali's life, courage, and dedication to Islam.

Al-Washli drew parallels between the conspiracies faced by Imam Ali and the current challenges facing Yemen, highlighting the need for the nation to emulate its great leaders and adhere to their principles.

He praised revolution leader's stance and the Yemeni people's support for Palestine and their resistance against "American aggression," stressing the significance of their actions.

The symposium also focused on Imam Ali's life, heroism, wisdom, and his close relationship with Prophet Muhammad. Speakers urged attendees to embody Imam Ali's qualities in confronting contemporary challenges and strengthening unity against "America, the leader of terrorism and global arrogance."

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Israeli military says it intercepted missile fired from Yemen; Houthis claim responsibility

March 22, 2025

JERUSALEM: The Israeli military said it intercepted a missile fired from Yemen on Friday, one day after shooting down two projectiles launched by Houthi militants.

Yemen’s Iran-aligned Houthis claimed responsibility for the attack, saying that it fired a ballistic missile toward Ben Gurion Airport near Tel Aviv, the group’s military spokesperson, Yahya Saree, said in a televised statement in the early hours of Saturday.

Saree said the attack against Israel was the group’s third in 48 hours.

He issued a warning to airlines that the Israeli airport was “no longer safe for air travel and would continue to be so until the Israeli aggression against Gaza ends and the blockade is lifted.”

However, the airport’s website seemed to be operating normally and showed a list of scheduled flights.

The group’s military spokesman has also said without providing evidence that the Houthis had launched attacks against the US aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman in the Red Sea.

The group recently vowed to escalate attacks, including those targeting Israel, in response to US strikes

earlier this month, which amount to the biggest US military operation in the Middle East since President Donald Trump took office in January. The US attacks have killed at least 50 people.

The Houthis’ fresh attacks come under a pledge to expand their range of targets in Israel in retaliation for renewed Israeli strikes in Gaza that have killed hundreds after weeks of relative calm.

The Houthis have carried out over 100 attacks on shipping since Israel’s war with Hamas began in late 2023, saying they were acting in solidarity with Gaza’s Palestinians.

The attacks have disrupted global commerce and prompted the US military to launch a costly campaign to intercept missiles.

The Houthis are part of what has been dubbed the “Axis of Resistance” — an anti-Israel and anti-Western alliance of regional militias including Hamas, Lebanon’s Hezbollah and armed groups in Iraq, all backed by Iran.

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UN condemns violence in Gaza and West Bank, urges Israel to resume aid deliveries

EPHREM KOSSAIFY

March 22, 2025

NEW YORK CITY: A top UN official on Friday condemned ongoing violence in Gaza and the occupied West Bank, urged all parties to respect international humanitarian and human rights laws, and called for an immediate ceasefire and the resumption of aid deliveries to Gaza.

During a meeting of the Security Council, the third this week on events in the region, the UN’s special coordinator for the Middle East peace process, Sigrid Kaag, also condemned the expansion of Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank, and warned that continuing violations of Security Council Resolution 2334 are damaging the prospects for a two-state solution.

Adopted in 2016, Resolution 2334 calls for “immediate steps to prevent all acts of violence against civilians, including acts of terror, as well as all acts of provocation and destruction,” along with the reversal of “negative trends on the ground that are imperiling the two-state solution.”

In a report presented to the council, Kaag said Israeli authorities have approved about 10,600 new housing units in settlements, including 4,920 in East Jerusalem, despite the resolution’s demand for a halt to such activities.

Her report also highlighted a sharp increase in seizures and demolitions of Palestinian-owned properties. It said that during the reporting period, from Dec. 7, 2024, to March 13, 2025, at least 460 structures were destroyed, displacing 576 Palestinians, including nearly 300 children.

Such actions have been strongly criticized by the UN as a violation of international law, and Kaag reiterated that they undermine hopes for a viable Palestinian state.

“Unfortunately, the high number of fatal incidents across the Occupied Palestinian Territory and Israel precludes me from detailing all,” she continued.

The situation in Gaza continues to be dire, Kaag said, with the UN confirming that at least 3,860 Palestinians were killed during the reporting period, and about 6,000 injured. The humanitarian crisis in the war-battered enclave remains “catastrophic,” as Israeli authorities have halted the entry of essential goods and supplies. Access to clean water is restricted for more than half a million people there, and the already fragile health infrastructure has been severely affected.

Kaag reiterated that the provision of humanitarian aid “is not negotiable” and deliveries must be allowed to reach those in need. She strongly condemned the blocking of aid to Gaza by Israeli authorities, as well as “the widespread killing” and wounding of civilians, and the destruction of civilian infrastructure.

“Nothing can justify the collective punishment of the Palestinian people,” she said.

Kaag also condemned “indiscriminate attacks and the use of human shields” by Hamas, and stressed that all parties involved must “respect their obligations under international humanitarian law and international human rights law.”

She called for the immediate release of the 59 remaining Israeli hostages taken by Hamas and other Palestinian groups during the attacks on Oct. 7, 2023, 24 of whom are alive and 35 dead.

“Palestinian armed groups continued to hold hostages in horrific conditions, and fired rockets indiscriminately towards Israel,” said Kaag. “Hostages must be released immediately and unconditionally.

“I strongly condemn the reported ill-treatment of hostages. I remain appalled that there are reasonable grounds to believe that hostages may be subjected to sexual violence and abuse. I also reiterate my condemnation of Hamas’s abhorrent public displays accompanying the release of living and deceased hostages.”

Kaag also condemned the reported ill-treatment, including sexual abuse, of Palestinians held in Israeli detention facilities and said that when detainees are released, this must also be carried out in a dignified way.

Violence in the West Bank continues to escalate, with Israeli military operations and settler-related violence contributing to rising casualty figures. At least 123 Palestinians, including women and children, have been killed. Meanwhile, 10 Israelis, including children, have lost their lives in attacks by Palestinians. Rising tensions within Palestinian refugee camps, particularly in Jenin and Tulkarem, have resulted in the widespread displacement of occupants and the demolition of homes.

“The escalation of violence in the occupied West Bank is deeply troubling,” Kaag said. “Alongside the rising death toll, Palestinian refugee camps in the northern West Bank are being emptied and sustaining massive infrastructure damage during Israeli operations.”

Kaag rejected any attempt to forcibly displace Palestinians from the occupied territories, warning that such action amounts to “a grave violation of international human rights and humanitarian law.”

She condemned violence on both sides of the conflict and called for a policy of “maximum restraint” from the security forces. Lethal force must only be used when “strictly unavoidable to protect life,” she added.

Kaag also expressed alarm over ongoing attacks on Palestinians by Israeli settlers, some of which have occurred with the support of Israeli security forces.

In addition, she voiced concern about the ongoing Israeli efforts to undermine the UN Relief and Works Agency, which provides vital aid and services to Palestinian refugees.

In her closing remarks, she emphasized the need for a political process within which to resolve the ongoing conflict between the Israelis and Palestinians.

“We must work collectively to establish a political framework that outlines tangible, irreversible and time-bound steps,” she said.

“A viable two-state solution — Israel and Palestine, of which Gaza is an integral part, living side-by-side in peace and security — is long overdue.”

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UN warns of ‘massive trauma’ for Gaza’s children

March 21, 2025

GENEVA: The UN warned Friday that all Gaza’s approximately 1 million children were facing “massive trauma” as fighting in the war-ravaged territory resumed and amid dire aid shortages.

Humanitarians described an alarming situation in Gaza amid a growing civilian death toll since Israel resumed aerial bombardment and ground operations this week after a six-week ceasefire.

Sam Rose, the senior deputy field director in Gaza for the UN agency for Palestinian refugees, UNRWA, highlighted the psychological shock for already traumatized children to once again find themselves beneath the bombs.

This is a “massive, massive trauma for the 1 million children” living in the Palestinian territory, he told reporters in Geneva, speaking from Gaza.

The breakdown of the ceasefire that took effect on Jan. 19 comes as the population is already dramatically weakened from 15 months of brutal war sparked by Hamas’s deadly Oct, 7, 2023 attack on Israel.

“It’s worse this time,” Rose warned, “because people are already exhausted, they’re already degraded, their immune systems, their mental health, (and) population’s on the verge of famine.

“Children who had returned to school after 18 months out of school, now back in tents, ... hearing the bombardment around them constantly.

“It’s fear on top of fear, cruelty on top of cruelty, and tragedy on top of tragedy.”

James Elder, a spokesman for the UN children’s agency UNICEF, said traumatized children usually only start to process their trauma when they begin returning to normalcy.

“Psychologists would say our absolute nightmare is that they return home and then it starts again,” he told reporters.

“That’s the terrain that we’ve now entered,” he said, warning that Gaza was the only “example in modern history in terms of an entire child population needing mental health support.”

“That’s no exaggeration.”

Gaza’s civil defense agency said 504 people had been killed since Tuesday, including more than 190 under the age of 18.

The toll is among the highest since the war started more than 17 months ago with Hamas’s attack on Israel.

It has also been a deadly period for humanitarians, with seven UNRWA staff killed just since the ceasefire broke down, bringing the total number killed from that agency alone to 284 since the Gaza war began.

A Bulgarian worker with another UN agency was also killed this week, as was a local staff member of Doctors Without Borders, the medical charity said Friday.

Humanitarians warned the situation on the ground has been made worse by Israel’s decision earlier this month to cut off aid and electricity to Gaza over the deadlock in negotiations to prolong the ceasefire.

“We were able to bring in more supplies during the six weeks of the ceasefire than ... in the previous six months,” Rose said, warning though that that progress was “being reversed.”

He said there was only enough flour in Gaza for another six days.

Asked about Israel’s charge that Hamas has diverted more than sufficient aid inside Gaza, Rose said he had “not seen any evidence” of that.

“There is no aid being distributed right now, so there is nothing to steal.”

He warned, though, that if aid is not restored, “we will see a gradual slide back into what we saw in the worst days of the conflict in terms of looting ... and desperate conditions among the population.”

Meanwhile, Elder described the vital aid items that aid agencies could not bring into Gaza.

“We’ve got 180,000 doses of vaccines a few kilometers away that are life-saving and are blocked,” he said.

He also pointed to a “massive shortage” of incubators in Gaza even as pre-term births were surging.

“We have dozens of them, again sitting across the border,” he said. “Blocked ventilators for babies.”

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Israeli hostage freed after 491 days asks: Where was the United Nations, the Red Cross, the world?

March 21, 2025

UNITED NATIONS: Freed Israeli hostage Eli Sharabi, who was beaten, chained and starved while held for 491 days by Hamas, expressed his anger during an appearance at the UN Security Council on Thursday for having to suffer for so long and worry every day about being killed.

“Where was the United Nations? Where was the Red Cross? Where was the world?” Sharabi asked.

He challenged the UN’s most powerful body: “If you stand for humanity prove it” by bringing home the 59 hostages still in Gaza, many of whom are believed to be dead.

The fate of the remaining hostages became more uncertain after Israel on Tuesday ended a six-week break in the fighting that had allowed for the return of some hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners.

Sharabi said the council talked about the need to get humanitarian aid to Palestinians in Gaza, but he saw Hamas militants eating stolen food from dozens of boxes marked with UN emblems while the hostages starved. They were given maybe a piece of pita and a sip of tea a day, and an occasional dry date, he said.

When he was released on Feb. 8, Sharabi said he weighed 44 kilos (about 97 pounds) — less than the weight of his youngest daughter, who was killed along with his wife and older daughter in Hamas’ surprise attack in southern Israel on Oct. 7, 2023, along with about 1,200 others. He was among 251 people taken hostage.

The United States in November vetoed a UN Security Council resolution demanding an immediate ceasefire in Gaza because it was not linked to an immediate release of the hostages.

The Palestinians and their supporters then went to the 193-member General Assembly, which adopted a resolution in December demanding a ceasefire and reiterating its demand for the release of the hostages. Unlike Security Council resolutions, though, those passed by the General Assembly are nonbinding.

The ceasefire that went into effect in January was shattered on Tuesday with surprise airstrikes on Gaza that killed more than 400 Palestinians, one of the highest death tolls in the nearly 18-month war. Gaza’s Health Ministry said most victims were women and children.

Sharabi’s appearance before the council, the second by a freed hostage, followed an Israeli request last week for a meeting on the plight of the hostages.

Britain’s deputy ambassador James Kariuki called Sharabi’s suffering “beyond the imagination” and said “Hamas must be held accountable for their despicable actions.”

But Kariuki also said the UK condemns Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz’s “warning of the total destruction of Gaza.” Britain calls for the rapid resurgence of aid to Gaza, an investigation into allegations of sexual and gender-based violence against Palestinian detainees by Israeli forces, and an urgent return to the ceasefire deal, he said.

France’s new UN ambassador, Jérôme Bonnafont, expressed his country’s deepest condolences to Sharabi but also condemned the resumption of Israel’s bombing, saying it will not ensure the release of hostages, and demanded an end to Israel’s humanitarian blockade of Gaza.

Russia’s deputy UN ambassador Dmitry Polyansky told the council, “Our hearts were filled with sorrow as we listened to the tragic story of Mr. Eli Sharabi,” adding “such brutality can have no justification.”

Polyansky criticized Israel’s leaders for not moving to phase 2 of the ceasefire deal, which calls for the release of all hostages and a permanent end to the fighting. He said it’s difficult to discuss the future when Israel’s military and political leaders appear to have made the choice in favor of war.

Algeria’s UN Ambassador Amar Bendjama, representing the Arab world on the council, called Sharabi a “representative of civil society,” and said “no civilian, irrespective of their background, should endure suffering.”

He then accused Israel of “cherry-picking” international law. He pointed to Israel’s ban on humanitarian aid, fuel and electricity entering Gaza since March 2, its killing of civilians, and the cutoff of the International Committee of the Red Cross’ access to over 9,500 Palestinians detained in Israeli prisons since Oct. 7.

After all council members spoke, Riyad Mansour, the Palestinian UN ambassador, sent “our condolences” to Sharabi over the killing of his loved ones and his prolonged captivity. He said Palestinians “understand this pain because we live it.”

Sharabi made no mention of Israeli actions, except to say that on the morning of Oct. 7, when he heard that militants were inside Kibbutz Be’eri where he lived, he reassured his wife not to worry: “The army will come, they always come.” That morning, they never came.

He told the council he came to speak for 24-year-old Alon Ohel, a fellow hostage whom he left behind in the tunnel, and all others, including his older brother, Yossi, who was killed but whose body remains in Gaza.

“Bring them all home. Now!” Sharabi said.

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Two evenings in Jahana commemorate Imam Ali martyrdom , peace be upon him

21 Mar 2025

An evening of speeches was organized in Izzat Masour in Shura Council member presence Mujahid al-Samri.

In the evening, the mobilization official in Jahana district, Saleh al-Hosni, considered the month of Ramadan an important faith station for the purification of souls with a sincere return to God Almighty.

He pointed out that the commemoration of the martyrdom of Imam Ali, peace be upon him, is a great occasion and a great tragedy for the nation that caused the deviation , the hypocrisy movement and the Jews were able to divert the nation from its true path.

In Jahana, a cultural evening was organized to commemorate the anniversary of the martyrdom of Imam Ali, peace be upon him.

In the evening, cultural activist Mahdi al-Atani pointed out that the nation's deviation and loss is due to its departure from the religion of God and its allegiance to the Jews, stressing that there is no salvation for the nation except by a sincere return to God , allegiance to his guardians, and following the example of the highest model of faith, Imam Ali, peace be upon him.

For his part, cultural activist Ahsan al-Abadi considered the month of Ramadan a great opportunity for a sincere return to God to equip oneself with piety and turn to God through charity, spending, solidarity, practical action and responsibility in various fields.

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Over 3 million pilgrims: Najaf gears up for dual religious events

2025-03-22

Shafaq News/ Najaf is bracing for an influx of more than three million visitors on Friday as it prepares to host two major religious events: the anniversary of Imam Ali’s martyrdom and Laylat al-Qadr, a sacred night in the Islamic calendar.

Authorities have rolled out a comprehensive security and logistical plan to manage the surge in pilgrims, with heightened coordination across law enforcement, emergency services, and civic departments.

Citywide Mobilization

The local government has declared full-scale readiness, deploying extensive resources to ensure a seamless pilgrimage experience. Najaf’s official spokesman, Ahmed Al-Fatlawi, said the province is draped in black to mark Imam Ali’s martyrdom, coinciding with Laylat al-Qadr observances at the Imam Ali shrine.

Al-Fatlawi noted that Governor Yousef Kanawi has led multiple strategy meetings with security, health, and service institutions to finalize a “model operational plan.”

The security apparatus is on high alert, with police, intelligence agencies, and the National Security Service securing all entry points to the old city. Reinforcements from the Popular Mobilization Forces and the Imam Ali Combat Division have been stationed at key border areas, including the Najaf desert region.

On the service front, municipal authorities have mobilized resources across Najaf and its districts, extending efforts to nearby Kufa. Medical teams have been deployed at key locations, both inside and outside the old city, to handle any health emergencies.

Traffic Strategy

Unlike previous years, authorities have opted against road closures, keeping all major thoroughfares open—including those under maintenance—to facilitate smoother access for pilgrims. The transport department has also reinforced its fleet, ensuring shuttle services between the old city and key transit hubs to accommodate the massive influx of visitors.

Emergency Preparedness

The Civil Defense Directorate has activated a three-pronged plan to mitigate potential hazards. Spokesman Nuas Sabah outlined preemptive safety inspections across hotels and commercial establishments, mandating compliance with fire safety regulations and emergency exit protocols.

Public awareness campaigns have also been launched, urging vendors and religious processions to observe safety measures when using gas stoves and electrical appliances. Meanwhile, rapid-response teams, including chemical, biological, and radiological emergency units, have been stationed across the city.

Historic and Spiritual Significance

This year’s pilgrimage is expected to surpass last year’s turnout of 3.5 million pilgrims. The heightened turnout underscores the deep spiritual connection many hold to Imam Ali, whose martyrdom in 661 AD remains a defining event for Shiite Muslims worldwide.

Religious scholar Sheikh Haider Al-Tamimi noted that the observance coincides with Laylat al-Qadr, a night of intense worship believed to mark the revelation of the Quran. While Islamic scholars debate the exact date, many regard the 23rd night of Ramadan—falling this year on Sunday—as the most probable.

As Najaf experiences the peak of its pilgrimage season, authorities remain on high alert to ensure the safety and well-being of millions gathering for this sacred occasion.

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80,000 Worshippers Perform Third Friday Prayer at Al-Aqsa Mosque

21 Mar 2025

Tens of thousands of Palestinians performed the third Friday prayer of Ramadan at Al-Aqsa Mosque, despite strict Israeli military measures, heavy rain, and severe cold.

The Islamic Endowments Department in Quds estimated that 80,000 worshippers performed Friday prayers at Al-Aqsa Mosque, while Israeli forces imposed strict restrictions on the entry of worshippers coming from the West Bank to occupied Quds to perform prayers at Al-Aqsa Mosque.

Local sources reported that the Israeli army reinforced its presence at the Qalandia military checkpoint north of occupied Quds and the "300" checkpoint separating the cities of Bethlehem and Quds, and checked citizens' IDs.

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For 3rd Friday, enemy refuses to hand over parts of Ibrahimi Mosque

21 Mar 2025

Palestinian Minister of Endowments and Religious Affairs, Sheikh Muhammad Mustafa Najm, confirmed last night that the enemy authorities have refused, for the third consecutive Friday, to hand over large parts of the Ibrahimi Mosque and open its doors to Palestinian worshippers in Hebron.

Minister Najm said in a statement that the ministry refused to receive the Ibrahimi Mosque without one of its important parts, as this would be an admission of this violation, a matter on which the ministry had already established its position since the beginning of the holy month of Ramadan.

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Kurds in Iraq and Syria celebrate the Nowruz festival of spring at a time of new political horizons

March 22, 2025

AKRE. Iraq: Kurds in Iraq and Syria this week marked the Nowruz festival, a traditional celebration of spring and renewal, at a time when many are hoping that a new political beginning is on the horizon.

Nowruz, the Farsi-language word for “new year,” is an ancient Persian festival that is celebrated in countries including Iraq, Syria, Turkiye and Iran. It is characterized by colorful street festivals and torch-bearing processions winding their way into the mountains.

For many, Thursday and Friday’s Nowruz festivities symbolized not only the arrival of spring but also the spirit and aspirations of the Kurdish people, who are now facing a moment of transformation in the region.

The Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces, which holds sway in much of northeastern Syria, recently signed a landmark deal with the new government in Damascus that includes a ceasefire and eventual merging of the SDF into the Syrian army.

Meanwhile, the Kurdistan Workers’ Party, or PKK, which has waged a decades-long insurgency in Turkiye that has spilled over into conflict in Syria and northern Iraq, recently announced a ceasefire after the group’s imprisoned leader, Abdullah Ocalan, called for its members to put down their weapons.

In Iraq, calls for unity

As the sun set behind the mountains of Akre in the semi-autonomous Kurdish region of northern Iraq Thursday, more than 1,500 volunteers climbed the steep hills, carrying burning torches as their faces shimmered in the light of the flame.

From a distance, their movements looked like a river of fire flowing up and down the mountain. At the top, small bonfires burned, while the sky was filled with the flashing colors of fireworks.

Women wearing colorful dresses with gold and silver jewelry and men dressed in traditional outfits with wide belts and turbans danced in the streets of the town and in the hills, Kurdish flags waving above the crowds.

The sound of dahol drums and zurna flutes echoed everywhere, mixed with modern Kurdish folk songs played from loudspeakers.

According to Akre’s directorate of tourism, some 88,000 people attended the event, including Kurds who traveled from around the region and the world. The substantial turnout came despite the fact that this year the festival coincides with Ramadan, during which many Kurds — like other Muslims — fast from sunrise to sunset daily.

Among those dancing on the hill was Hozan Jalil, who traveled from Batman city in Turkiye. Jalil said he is happy about the peace process and hopeful that it will bear results, although he was also somewhat circumspect. “I hope it won’t finish with regrets and our Kurdish people will not be deceived or cheated,” he said.

Jalil said Nowruz to him represents unity between Kurdish people across national boundaries. “This year, Nowruz to me symbolizes the point of achieving freedom for all Kurdish people,” he said.

For the people of Akre, Nowruz has become a tradition that connects them to Kurds and others everywhere. A local from Akre, described her pride in hosting such a celebration in her town.

“It’s a great feeling that everyone from all over the world comes to Akre for this celebration because it makes Akre the capital of Nowruz for the whole world,” said Guevara Fawaz. She was walking through the town’s main square with her family dressed in traditional Kurdish clothes.

Like Jalil, she voiced hopes that the PKK-Turkiye talks would progress and “achieve peace in all four parts of Kurdistan.”

A changing reality in Syria

Across the border in Syria, where former President Bashar Assad was unseated in a lightning rebel offensive in December, Nowruz celebrations took place openly in the streets of the capital for the first time in more than a decade since anti-government protests spiraled into a civil war in 2011.

Hundreds of Kurds packed into Shamdeen Square in the Roken Al-Din neighborhood, the main Kurdish area in the Syrian capital, to light the Nowruz fire, waving Kurdish flags alongside the new, three-starred Syrian flag.

In the village of Hemo, just outside the city of Qamishli in northeastern Syria, the Kurdish flag, along with flags of Abdullah Ocalan and the SDF, waved high above the crowds as people danced in the streets.

The new rulers in Damascus, Islamist former insurgents, have promised to respect minorities. A temporary constitution announced earlier this month states that “citizens are equal before the law ... without discrimination based on race, religion, gender or lineage.”

But many Kurds were unhappy that the text does not explicitly recognize Kurdish rights.

Mizgeen Tahir, a well-known Kurdish singer who attended the festivities in Hemo, said, “This year, Nowruz is different because it’s the first Nowruz since the fall of the Baath regime and authority,” referring to the now-disbanded Baath party of the Assad dynasty.

But Syria’s Kurdish region “is at a turning point now,” he said.

“This Nowruz, we’re unsure about our situation. How will our rights be constitutionally recognized?” Media Ghanim, from Qamishli, who also joined the celebrations, said she is hopeful that after Assad’s fall, “we will keep moving forward toward freedom and have our rights guaranteed in the Syrian constitution.”

“We hope these negotiations will end with success, because we want our rights as Kurds,” she said.

Source:arabnews.com

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Turkiye condemns ‘deliberate Israeli strike’ on Gaza hospital; Israel army insists it ‘struck terrorists’

March 22, 2025

ISTANBUL/JERUSALEM: Ankara on Friday condemned what it said was a “deliberate” attack by Israel on a Turkish-built hospital in the Gaza Strip.

“We strongly condemn the destruction by Israel of the Turkish-Palestinian Friendship Hospital,” said a foreign ministry statement.

Israel’s military acknowledged the attack, but insisted it “struck terrorists” in what it described as an inactive Gaza hospital used by Hamas militants.

“Earlier today (Friday), the IDF (military) struck terrorists in a Hamas terrorist infrastructure site that previously had served as a hospital in the central Gaza Strip,” a military spokesman told AFP in response to a question about the Turkish accusations.

Nearly 600 Palestinians have been killed since Israel on Tuesday shattered the truce that had facilitated the release of more than two dozen hostages and brought relative calm since late January.

Israeli ground forces on Friday advanced deeper into Gaza and vowed to hold more land until Hamas releases its remaining hostages.

In the southern city of Rafah, officials said Israeli bombardments had forced residents into the open, deepening their suffering. Officials said they halted the building of shelter camps to protect employees.

Israel had already cut off the supply of food, fuel and humanitarian aid to Gaza’s roughly 2 million Palestinians. It says military operations will escalate until Hamas releases the 59 hostages it holds — 24 of whom are believed alive — and gives up control of the territory.

Israel had ignored international condemnation of its indescriminate strikes, with Defense Minister Israel Katz warning that Israel would carry out operations in Gaza “with increasing intensity until the hostages are released by Hamas.”

Source:arabnews.com

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Israeli forces push deeper into Gaza and destroy its only cancer hospital

March 21, 2025

JERUSALEM: Israeli forces advanced deeper into the Gaza Strip on Friday and blew up the only specialized cancer hospital in the war-torn territory, as Israeli leaders vowed to capture more land until Hamas releases its remaining hostages.

The hospital was located in the Netzarim Corridor, a band that splits Gaza in two and was controlled by Israeli troops for most of the 17-month-long war.

Israel moved to retake the corridor this week shortly after breaking the ceasefire with Hamas. The truce had delivered relative calm to Gaza since late January and facilitated the release of more than two dozen hostages.

The Israeli military said it struck the Turkish-Palestinian Friendship Hospital, which was inaccessible to doctors and patients during the war, because Hamas militants were operating in the site. Türkiye, which helped build and fund the hospital, said Israeli troops at one point used it as a base.

Dr. Zaki Al-Zaqzouq, head of the hospital’s oncology department, said a medical team visited the facility during the ceasefire and found that, while it had suffered damage, some facilities remained in good condition.

“I cannot fathom what could be gained from bombing a hospital that served as a lifeline for so many patients,” he said in a statement issued by the aid group Medical Aid for Palestinians.

The Turkish Foreign Ministry condemned the hospital’s destruction and accused Israel of deliberately “rendering Gaza uninhabitable and forcibly displacing the Palestinian people.”

Hospitals can lose their protected status under international law if they are used for military purposes, but any operations against them must be proportional. Human rights groups and UN-backed experts have accused accused Israel of systematically destroying Gaza’s health care system.

Source:arabnews.com

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Former central bank governor Riad Salameh’s case referred to financial prosecution

NAJIA HOUSSARI

March 21, 2025

BEIRUT: Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam announced on Friday that the government was working on establishing an executive mechanism to transition Lebanon into a digital state.

Lebanon is focused on using all its resources and connections to leverage external expertise in order to pursue the government’s development goals, he stated during a meeting with a delegation of business leaders.

The Cabinet approved a mechanism for administrative appointments in state institutions on Thursday, which Salam described as “transparent and competitive.”

Media reports in Beirut on Friday characterized this mechanism as a “theoretical qualitative leap and a reformative advancement in the selection of public sector employees. However, the critical factor remains its successful implementation.”

The position of governor of Lebanon’s central bank, the Banque du Liban, is currently vacant as President Joseph Aoun and Prime Minister Salam have not yet reached an agreement on the most suitable candidate. In the meantime, the judiciary is awaiting the findings of the financial public prosecutor regarding the investigation into the bank’s former governor Riad Salameh.

Salameh has been in pretrial detention for the past seven months on charges of embezzling public funds.

A judicial source told Arab News that Investigative Judge Bilal Halawi had concluded the investigation into Salameh’s case after issuing two in absentia arrest warrants for Salameh’s advisers.

The case has now been referred to Financial Prosecutor Judge Ali Ibrahim for review in preparation for issuing an indictment.

There is no specific deadline for the financial prosecution to respond.

Salameh — along with two lawyers, Michel Tueini and Marwan Issa Khoury, who served as advisers at the central bank — is being prosecuted for allegedly embezzling over $40 million from the bank’s funds. It is claimed that this amount was transferred to Salameh’s account with the assistance of Tueini and Issa Khoury.

In the ongoing pursuit of corruption cases, Judge Jamal Hajjar, the public prosecutor at the Court of Cassation, has moved to ban former Economy Minister Amin Salam from traveling.

The decision was made based on a report from the National Economy, Industry, Trade, and Planning Committee.

It also included his advisers Karim Salam and Fadi Tamim, as well as financial auditor Elie Abboud.

On Thursday, MP Farid Boustany, the committee’s chairman, lodged a complaint with the Public Prosecutor’s Office against the former minister, his advisers, and Abboud as a signatory.

The complaint alleges “bribery, influence-peddling, blackmailing insurance companies, mismanagement of public funds, and money laundering.”

In response to these accusations, Salam denied the charges, claiming they were part of a “systematic campaign of personal or political targeting” against him and his team.

Salam served as the economy minister for less than four years in the Najib Mikati government.

A report from the Parliamentary Observatory determined that Salam “misused his authority over the Insurance Control Commission, which oversees the insurance sector, for personal benefit at the expense of public funds.”

A judicial source informed Arab News that the travel ban was a preliminary measure aimed at ensuring that the suspects are notified about their upcoming interrogations, scheduled to occur soon at the Palace of Justice in Beirut.

The National Economy Committee of Parliament prepared a dossier detailing “violations” by Salam during his time in office.

The committee had previously summoned him to discuss the oversight of insurance companies by the ministry.

Salam did not attend three sessions, leading the committee to refer the case to the public prosecutor at the Court of Cassation and the financial prosecution for further action.

In 2023, sources said suspicions arose after his adviser, Tamim, was accused of blackmailing insurance companies for hundreds of thousands of dollars to prevent the revocation of the company’s license.

“Tamim was arrested, and it later came to light that Minister Karim Salam, the brother of the minister, had pressured insurance companies to pay large sums for mandatory solvency studies through a firm owned by Tamim. These actions resulted in accusations of abuse of power and blackmail.

“The National Economy Committee uncovered evidence that former Minister Salam misused public funds, spending over $50,000 a month on his office and engaging in questionable contracts.”

Source:arabnews.com

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Pakistan

Delay in naming climate authority chief irks SC constitutional bench

Nasir Iqbal

March 22, 2025

ISLAMABAD: The Constit­utional Bench of the Supreme Court on Friday expressed concern over the delay in appointing the chairman of the Climate Change Authority, established under the Pakistan Climate Change Act (PCCA) 2017.

The prolonged delay in the appointment process prompted Justice Jamal Khan Mandokhail, a member of the five-judge CB, to note that climate change is a pressing issue for Pakistan, yet the government’s slow pace, expected to be swift like a leopard, was instead moving at the sluggish pace of a tortoise.

“The law was made in 2017, but neither the chairman has been appointed nor the rules have been finalised so far,” Justice Mandokhail regretted.

The bench had taken up a petition instituted by the Public Interest Law Association of Pakistan through Advocate Syed Faisal Hussain Naqvi, highlighting existential threat the climate change was posing to the country.

The case was earlier heard by a three-judge SC bench, headed by Justice Syed Mansoor Ali Shah, before it was transferred to the constitutional bench.

On July 1, 2024, the regular bench ordered the federal government to constitute an authority under PCCA within a fortnight and the notification of a duly constituted authority be placed on record before the next hearing.

When the case came up for hearing on Friday, Additional Attorney General (AAG) Chaudhry Aamir Rehman explained that an advertisement had been issued for a third time in an attempt to fill the office of chairman of the five-member climate authority.

In response to Justice Mandokhail’s query about the two previous ads, the AAG said the government had shortlisted three aspirants for the post, but it emerged later that the candidate considered suitable turned out to be a dual national. He added it was the government’s policy that any individual having a dual citizenship could not be considered suitable for official appointments.

The judge remarked sometimes compromises had to be made for an individual possessing high calibre that the government was looking for, adding that the “real issue” was with the provinces wondering how the authority would work there.

When the AAG explained that members of the climate authority from some provinces had been appointed, Justice Ami­nuddin Khan and Justice Mandokhail wondered if those nominated to represent Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan, brother of KP CM Ali Amin Gandapur and vice chancellor of Balochistan, respectively, and the bureaucrats from Sindh and Punjab had the relevant expertise needed for the issue as important as climate.

The AAG said the provinces may be approached again to nominate technocrats for the climate authority.

When Justice Mandokhail asked if rules of the authority had been made, the AAG assured the court that a draft of the rules had been prepared and would be furnished before the law ministry for vetting and approval.

Climate Change Secretary Zulfiqar Younis told the court that 752 applications were received last time for the appointment of climate authority members.

Asked why the two other individuals shortlisted for the post were not being considered for appointment, the secretary explained that the remaining two candidates did not fully meet the criteria.

According to the Global Climate Risk Index, Pakistan is currently the fifth most climate-vulnerable country in the world.

On July 5, 2024, the SC regretted that the recent provincial budgets for 2024-25 failed to earmark any fund or come up with any effective strategies to mitigate the effects of climate change.

Source:dawn.com

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PTI denied permission to hold rally at iconic Lahore venue

Mansoor Malik | Wajih Ahmad Sheikh

March 22, 2025

LAHORE: The Lahore Deputy Commissioner has rejected a PTI application to hold a public gathering at Minar-i-Pakistan “in view of serious security issues, threats and general law and order situation in the country”.

The PTI had applied for permission on March 22 (today) through its Punjab Vice President Akmal Khan Bari.

In an order issued on Friday, DC Syed Musa Raza stated that the decision to reject the application had been taken on the recommendation of the District Intelligence Committee (DIC).

The DIC said granting permission to the PTI to hold public gathering on March 22 would not be feasible owing to prevalent security threats. It said March 22 (21st of Ramazan) falls on the death anniversary of Hazrat Ali (R.A.) and the security forces would be deployed for peaceful conduct of the event. Furthermore, it said, law enforcement agencies were already facing life threats.

“A specific threat is intact that 76 suicide bombers have been trai­ned by Fitna-al-Khwarij for carrying out large-scale terrorist activities in Paki­stan”. Furthermore, the DIC stated, three incidents had recently taken place — Akora Khatak bomb blast near Bannu Cantonment, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Jaffar Express in Balochistan.

The deputy commissioner, in his order, also stated that the National Assembly had also passed a resolution with respect to Fitna-al-Khwarij for stopping their activities and all law enforcement agencies had been deployed for said operation.

Meanwhile, Mr Bari in a video message stated the incumbent government should resign if it could not give security to its people.

PTI petition disposed of Meanwhile, the Lahore High Court on Friday disposed of PTI’s petition seeking permission for a public gathering at Minar-i-Pakistan in the light of the deputy commissioner’s decision.

Justice Farooq Haider heard the petition filed by PTI leader Akmal Khan Bari, which challenged the authorities’ failure to decide the party request.

Additional Advocate General Balighuz Zaman submitted a reply on behalf of the district government, saying the deputy commissioner had the authority to grant or deny permission for the gathering.

He said the DC had already made a decision after a meeting of the district intelligence committee, rejecting the PTI’s request for the rally.

The judge noted that the relevant authorities had rejected the petitioner’s request for the rally.

The judge directed the law officer to provide the copies of the government reply and the decision of the DC to the petitioner’s counsel.

The judge remarked that the petitioner had the right to challenge the authorities’ decision.

Source:dawn.com

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Broadcast of case on false blasphemy evidence ordered

Malik Asad

March 22, 2025

ISLAMABAD: The Islamabad High Court (IHC) has ordered the live broadcast of proceedings in a case seeking the formation of a commission to investigate allegations of fabricated evidence in blasphemy cases.

Justice Sardar Ejaz Ishaq Khan, while presiding over the proceedings, remarked that the case had become a matter of significant public interest.

The judge noted that the courtroom was filled beyond capacity with many more people gathered outside, and directed the IT officials to make immediate arrangements for online streaming of the proceedings.

The court instructed the police officials to inform those waiting outside that they could watch the proceedings online, and adjour­ned the hearing to next week.

Earlier, the court expressed dissatisfaction over the government’s response to the petition, terming it slow and incomplete.

The matter, which affects hundreds of lives, has seen little progress since the initial directive was issued on Sept 13, 2024.

The court highlighted the interior ministry’s failure to provide a definitive statement on whether an application for constituting an inquiry commission had been received or not. Similarly, the Federal Investigation Agency had also not clearly stated whether the evidence in question had been fabricated or planted.

A key document in the petition is a January 2024 report from the Special Branch of Punjab Police, which suggests that individuals have been deliberately targeted and falsely accused of blasphemy as part of an organised blackmailing scheme.

These allegations, first raised in September last year, claim that young men and women have been entrapped in false blasphemy cases for the purpose of coercion and extortion.

According to petitioner’s counsel Usman Warraich, the Special Branch report reveals a disturbing pattern of abuse that demands urgent legal scrutiny.

Source:dawn.com

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Tear gas, water cannon employed to disperse Baloch Yakjehti Committee protesters in Quetta

Saleem Shahid

March 22, 2025

QUETTA: Police on Friday used tear gas and water cannon and fired blank shots to disperse protesters from the Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC) who had staged a sit-in on the Sariab Road, near University of Balochistan, against some arrests, including its leaders.

There were conflicting reports about casualties, with Bolan Medical College Hospital sources saying two bodies were brought there while one body and nine injured, including a policewoman, were received at Civil Hospital.

On her part, BYC chief organiser Dr Mahrang Baloch claimed that three people were killed and 13 others injured during the police action while they were protesting against the arrest of BYC leader Bebarg Baloch, his brother, a senior doctor of the Bolan Medical College, his son and son-in-law a few days ago.

A Balochistan government spokesman in a statement issued late in the evening said police took action, according to the law, in order to open the road. He claimed that protesters pelted the police with stones and beat them up, leaving 10 personnel, including a policewoman, injured.

The BYC workers had staged the protest rally on the Sariab Road carrying banners and placards. They chanted slogans against the arrest of Bebarg Baloch and others.

Later, the protesters reached Munir Mengal Road and set up a sit-in camp. However, a heavy contingent of police baton-charged them and used water cannon to dismantle the sit-in camp and disperse them. Police also fired blank shots.

According to the Bolan Medical College Hospital officials, two bodies were brought there from the Sariab Road area. The bodies were later taken away by the heirs.

Officials at the Provin­cial Civil Hospital Quetta said that one body and nine injured police personnel, including a female constable, were brought to the health facility.

Other sources earlier claimed that the BYC workers had taken away three bodies with them and staged a protest sit-in at Munir Mengal Road. The rally was addressed by BYC leaders, including Dr Mahrang Baloch. The traffic remained suspended at Sariab Road.

The BYC in a statement claimed that three people were killed and many others injured in the police firing.

The BYC gave a province-wise shutter-down and wheel jam strike call for Saturday (today).

Balochistan government spokesman Shahid Rind in a statement confirmed nine police personnel being injured during the stone pelting.

He said that the BYC was protesting with the bodies is yet to be determined. The reason of killing three people could not be determined until the medico-legal proceedings completed in the hospital, he said.

He said nobody would be allowed to take law in their own hands. “Government could not sit silent spectator if someone created a law and order situation and would fulfil its responsibilities for the protection of the life and property of the people,” Mr Rind said.

Source:dawn.com

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President Zardari grants remission to prisoners on Eid ul Fitr

March 21, 2025

President Asif Ali Zardari has approved remission for prisoners on the eve of Pakistan Day and Eid ul Fitr.

The president granted a remission of 180 days, for both occasions in sentences exercising his powers under Article 45 of the Constitution.

However, the remission would not be applicable on prisoners involved in murder, espionage and anti-state activities.

Besides, the prisoners involved in rape, theft, robbery, kidnapping, terrorism and financial crimes, would also be ineligible for the remission.

The reduction in sentences would apply to male prisoners over 65 years of age and female prisoners over 60 years of age, who had completed one-third of their sentence.

The juvenile prisoners, who had completed one-third of their sentence would also be entitled to remission.

It is important to note that granting remission has remained a common practice on major events and occasions such as Eid, Independence Day etc.

Source:thenews.com.pk

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Tensions boil over as IHC judges ‘refuse’ CJ-ordered changes

Malik Asad

March 22, 2025

• Justices Tariq Jahangiri, Babar Sattar and Sardar Ejaz Khan take issue with president’s notification reconstituting IHC Tribunal

• Former tribunal members issue reserved order on judge’s appeal, say law doesn’t allow filling capital court by borrowing from other high courts

• Ruling may affect number of judges transferred to Islamabad judiciary; order gives affected parties 30 days to approach SC

ISLAMABAD: The tensions simmering among judges of the Islamabad High Court (IHC) seemingly boiled over on Friday, when three members of the IHC Tribunal — who were replaced earlier this month when the tribunal was reconstituted — declared that neither the acting chief justice nor the president had the authority to dissolve or reconstitute the tribunal without legal justification.

This emerged in a ruling, issued on Wednesday in the Judicial Service Appeal of Additional District and Sessions Judge Mohammad Shabbir.

AD&SJ Shabbir had challenged the initial appointment and promotion of Judge Shahrukh Arjumand as a senior civil judge in Islamabad, and his subsequent elevation to the position of district and sessions judge.

The tribunal consisting of Justices Tariq Mehmood Jahangiri, Babar Sattar and Sardar Ejaz Ishaq Khan was hearing AD&SJ Shabbir’s appeal when a March 18 notification, issued by President Asif Ali Zardari, replaced them with Justices Khadim Hussain Soomro, Mohammad Azam Khan and Raja Inaam Ameen Minhas.

The order issued on Friday noted that it was being released “in peculiar circumstances that require some explanation”.

In the order, the three judges set aside the initial appointment of Justice Azam Khan to the Islamabad judiciary. Justice Khan was elevated to the Islamabad High Court by the Judicial Commission of Pakistan earlier this year.

In addition, the judges also set aside the appointments of Judge Arjumand, D&SJ Wajid Ali, D&SJ Humayun Dilawar, AD&SJ Qudratullah; and SCJs Abbas Shah, Ihtasham Allam Khan and Inamullah.

“Neither the letter nor the spirit of Islamabad High Court Act, 2010, allows filling permanent posts in the subordinate judiciary established for Islamabad Capital Territory on deputation basis, by borrowing judges from Provincial High Courts.,” the order said.

It called on the IHC registrar to “make arrangements to return all members presently serving in the subordinate judiciary for Islamabad Capital Territory on deputation within six months from the date of this order”.

It stated that members of the tribunal had taken a decision on the appeal on Mar 13, but were later informed of a Mar 17 verbal directive, instructing them not to announce judgements as steps were being taken to dissolve the tribunal.

Subsequently, the March 18 notification purportedly reconstituted the tribunal on the advice of the acting chief justice.

However, the three judges held that this notification was unlawful, asserting that once the tribunal had been constituted in accordance with the Islamabad Subordinate Judiciary Service Tribunal Act, 2016, it could not be dissolved or reconstituted without legal justification.

“As the high court is a collegium, the administrative authority vested in the office of the chief justice must be exercised in a consensual manner… any decision by the chief justice or a committee appointed by the chief justice, that is not in accordance with the requirements of the law is not sustainable in the eyes of law, including decisions with regard to an appointment on deputations, induction, or promotion, and is liable to be set aside by this tribunal,” the order said.

The three judges also made several critical observations. They ruled that the appointment of judges on deputation to the Islamabad judiciary was unconstitutional and ordered the repatriation of all judges currently serving on deputation within six months.

The three judges declared the appointment of Justice Khadim Hussain Soomro, Justice Mohammad Azam Khan and Justice Raja Inaam Ameen Minhas as members of the IHC Tribunal ‘unconstitutional’.

The judges also held that the acting chief justice had no administrative authority to interfere with the tribunal’s functions, stating that such actions were outside the scope of the Constitution and law.

Recognising the impact of their decision, the judges ordered the suspension of the enforcement of their order for 30 days, to allow the affected parties to appeal before the Supreme Court.

Notably, these three judges are among those who have challenged the recent transfer of acting IHC Chief Justice Sarfraz Dogar, Justice Soomro and Justice Mohammad Asif to the IHC.

Source:dawn.com

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Security of trains in Balochistan beefed up

Iftikhar A. Khan

March 22, 2025

• Minister tells NA fencing of Quetta railway station to begin soon

• Health insurance scheme under consideration for govt employees

ISLAMABAD: The National Assembly was informed on Friday that the security of trains in Balochistan has been beefed up following the terrorist attack on the Jaffar Express.

Minister of State for Rail­ways Bilal Azhar Kayani told the house during the question hour that the Que­tta railway station was set to be fenced. Giving details of enhanced security, he said that as per standard operating procedures (SOPs), two to four Railway police officers are usually assigned to regular trains in Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan.

Mr Kayani said that previously, 13 security personnel were deployed on each train in Balochistan — five from the Railway police and eight from Frontier Corps (FC). However, after the recent incidents, security has been further tightened. “Now, each train traveling to Balochistan will have 22 security personnel on board — 11 from the FC and 11 from Railway police,” he said.

The minister said fencing of the Quetta railway station will shortly start, adding that new walk-through gates and scanners were being installed to replace old equipment and improve passenger screening.

Mr Kayani mentioned that a bomb disposal squad was already in place, but its capabilities were being enhanced. He also said that faulty communication systems were being upgraded to ensure smooth operations. Additionally, sniffer dogs were checking Balo­chistan-bound trains, he said.

Talking about train accidents, the minister said the long-term solution was the completion of the ML-1 project. “This project is being actively pursued. Once completed, it will provide a safer, faster railway system with modern crossings, underpasses, and level crossings,” he said.

Mr Kayani also shared that several railway projects were underway through the Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP), including major track repairs and maintenance. He said the ML-1 project — a part of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor — should have started earlier. “Now, it’s our top priority at both the ministry and government levels.”

The minister added that ML-1 will bring major improvements to Pakistan Railways. “It will reduce accidents, increase the number of trains, and make them faster. Once the project is complete, travel times are expected to drop by 40 per cent, making train journeys safer, quicker, and more efficient for passengers,” he added.

Mr Kayani said a Chinese technical team would soon visit Pakistan to advance the project. He also mentioned that the improvement in the rail infrastructure from Karachi to Hyderabad is part of Package One of the ML-1 upgrade.

He said Pakistan Railways has successfully outsourced the commercial management of multiple trains to private contractors, significantly increasing revenue generation.

Health insurance scheme

Minister of State for National Health Services Mukhtar Ahmad Malik told the house that a proposal to bring a healthcare insurance scheme for federal government employees was under consideration.

He said currently studies were being carried out to determine the treatment facilities to be provided under the scheme.

Responding to a calling-attention notice, Mr Kayani informed the house that the FBR revenue collection during the current fiscal year has increased by 26pc by February. He said the number of tax filers has also increased, while the economic indicators have improved over the last one year.

MNA Sharmila Farooqui in her calling-attention notice had raised the issue of taxes on salaried class.

Source:dawn.com

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Punjab govt warned against violating ‘Senate sanctity’

Syed Irfan Raza

March 22, 2025

ISLAMABAD: The Senate Standing Committee on Rules of Procedure and Privileges, chaired by Senator Taj Haider, issued a stern warning on Friday over the failure to implement the production order of detained PTI leader Senator Ejaz Chaudhry, emphasising potential consequences for non-compliance.

The committee in its meeting highlighted the urgent need to honour the sanctity of the house and its authority and uphold the rule of law.

Senate Chairman Yousuf Raza Gilani did not preside over the recent Senate session to record his protest against non-imp­lementation of his orders regarding Sena­tor Chaudhry’s production in parliament.

While taking up the matter of privile­ge motion referred to it by the house against Punjab’s Inspector General of Police (IGP) and Inspector General of Prisons for not implementing production orders issued by Senate chairman on Jan 13 and March 7, the committee decided to take an immediate action on the suspension of the superintendent jail and other relevant officers for violation of Rule 78 of Rules of Procedure and Privileges.

The committee directed the Punjab authorities to immediately present Mr Chaudhry before Senate’s privileges committee if medical clearance by doctors and family consent to his participation were granted.

Senator Chaudhry, who has been under medical care for a heart condition, was reportedly admitted to the Punjab Institute of Cardiology (PIC) after suffering heart pain on Feb 20.

Senator Taj Haider stressed, “Not im­­p­­lementing the order of the Senate chairman is a serious privilege breach. The committee has the authority to take strict action against those who violate the due process. And this cannot be ignored.”

While Punjab home department said there were no security concerns regarding Senator Chaudhry’s transportation, the IG prisons and IG police insisted they would not move Senator Chaudhry without medical clearance.

They assured the committee they would not create any hi­ndrance rather provide complete support if his medical requirement is cleared.

On the other hand, the Punjab authorities insisted that Senator Chaudhry remained admitted to the PIC and could not be moved.

The committee, however, questioned the validity of the claims, pointing out there was a lack of written confirmation from doctors about his inability to move.

Punjab Home Secretary Noorul Amin Mengal said, “We respect the Senate or­­d­­­ers, but medical concerns are paramount. If Senator Chaudhry’s doctors clear him for movement, we will produce him.”

Apparently irked by the reply, Senator Raja Nasir Abbas said, “This is not just about health — it’s about respecting the rule of law. If people can travel for medical treatment, so can Senator Chaudhry.”

Senator Sadia Abbasi emphasised that the Senate chairman’s authority had been undermined by non-compliance, stating, “The chairman had directed that Senator Ejaz Chaudhry should be presented. No one informed the chairman that it wasn’t possible to move him, which is a clear violation of privileges.”

Senator Attaur Rehman questioned the political motives behind Senator Chaudhry’s extended hospitalisation. “We demand to know whether Ejaz Chaudhry is being deliberately kept away from the Senate proceedings for reasons unrelated to his health,” he said.

The committee chairman said, “We are prepared to take legal action under Rule 78 if the violation continues.”

In response to a query, the IG prisons confirmed to the committee that they facilitated Senator Chaudhry’s hospital visits, but stressed, “If Ejaz Chaudhry’s doctors approve his transfer, we will follow through immediately.”

The committee decided to formally write to Senator Chaudhry to confirm whether he was willing to attend the session, provided his health permits.

The committee made it clear that the failure to comply with Senate’s orders would not be tolerated. “The authorities must ensure that Senator Chaudhry is either presented as per the production order or be held accountable for their lack of action,” it said.

The Punjab authorities were directed to work closely with the medical team and Senate leadership to ensure that Senate’s dignity was upheld.

Source:dawn.com

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Cop martyred, 3 injured in Swat police operation as drug smuggler killed

Murad Ali Khan | Fazal Khaliq

March 21, 2025

A cop was martyred while another three were injured during an operation in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Swat District on Friday as police killed a wanted drug smuggler who was also allegedly behind an officer’s murder.

In December 2024, Station House Office (SHO) Rahim Khan of Swat’s Manglawar police station was martyred while another was wounded during an encounter with drug smugglers in Mingora city. The police team was pursuing two notorious drug smugglers — Sharif Khan alias Sharifay and Ahmadzeb — following a tip-off regarding their activities.

Moin Ali, spokesperson for Swat District Police Officer (DPO) Nasir Mehmood, said the police today launched an intelligence-based operation in the mountainous region of Fizagat against a criminal involved in SHO Rahim’s murder.

The suspects “opened indiscriminate fire, killing Constable Niaz Muhammad as well as injuring Additional Sub-Inspector (ASI) Amjad Iqbal, Constable Muhammad Hussain and Constable Sarfaraz”, Ali added.

He further confirmed that in the ensuing exchange of fire, wanted drug smuggler Ahmadzeb — a prime suspect in SHO Rahim’s killing — was shot and killed.

“Acting on a tip-off, police reached the suspect’s residence to conduct a search and arrest operation,” the DPO’s spokesperson stated, adding that additional police units were deployed to the scene and immediately surrounded the house.

The injured officers were swiftly transported to Saidu Sharif Hospital, where doctors confirmed that their condition was stable. A large police contingent secured the area and launched further investigations into the incident, Ali added.

The police operation continued for four hours, Mingora SHO Mujeeb Alam told Dawn.com.

SHO Alam further said police checked the rooms of the four-storey building and collected evidence.

Last week, a huge quantity of drugs was recovered during a raid on the house of a former policeman in Faisalabad.

Earlier this month, a court in Peshawar convicted two officials of the excise police for smuggling narcotics and sentenced them to life imprisonment with a fine of Rs1 million each.

In January, the excise, taxation and narcotics control department personnel in KP’s Dera Ismail Khan had seized four kilogrammes of crystal meth (ice) from a car and arrested the suspect.

Source:dawn.com

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Journalist Farhan Mallick handed into FIA custody for 4 days over ‘anti-state’ content

Sumair Abdullah

March 21, 2025

A court in Karachi handed journalist Farhan Mallick into the Federal Investigation Agency’s (FIA) custody for four days on Friday for allegedly airing “anti-state” content on his outlet’s YouTube channel.

Mallick is the founder of media agency Raftar which describes itself as a “dynamic platform dedicated to driving social change through the power of storytelling”. He is also the former news director of Samaa TV.

The YouTuber was arrested a day ago in Karachi, with Raftar claiming that FIA officials visited their offices on Wednesday evening without prior notice, where they “harassed our team” and summoned Mallick to their office.

Mallick was presented before Judicial Magistrate-I (East) Yusra Ashfaq today, where the FIA sought his 14-day physical custody but was granted the remand for four days till March 25 (Tuesday), according to documents shared online and verified by Dawn.com.

They showed he was booked by the FIA under sections 16 (unauthorised use of identity information), 20 (offences against dignity of a natural person) and 26-A of the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (Peca) 2016, as well as sections 500 (punishment for defamation) and 109 (abetment) of the Pakistan Penal Code (PPC).

Notably, Section 26A is among the provisions recently added to the Peca laws, wherein fake news is defined as any information about which a person “knows or has reason to believe to be false or fake and likely to cause or create a sense of fear, panic or disorder or unrest”.

Any person found guilty of spreading such information could be sentenced to up to three years in prison or fined up to Rs2 million, or both.

The criminalisation of online disinformation has spread fear in Pakistan, with journalists among those worried about the potentially wide reach of the law.

“Amendments are being brought in specifically to quell dissent, to abduct, arrest, and detain journalists, and to silence journalism, silence dissent, and silence all criticism of the state,” human rights lawyer Imaan Zainab Mazari-Hazir told AFP.

According to the first information report (FIR) dated March 20, the FIA had received a report about Raftar TV’s YouTube channel, which was “involved in running a campaign for the posting of anti-state videos targeting the dignitaries mentioned in violation”.

It added that the YouTube channel’s initial technical analysis revealed that Mallick was “involved in generating and disseminating posts and videos related to anti-state consist of fake news and public incitement agenda”.

“He has continuously [been] disseminating and uploading posts and videos related to anti-state fake news and public incitement agenda, thereby causing harm to the reputation of public institutes on an international level […]” the FIR claimed.

In its remand request submitted to the court, the FIA had said Mallick was “required to be interrogated and efforts are also required to be taken [to] find out his accomplices involved and any other device or equipment that contain the incriminating material suspected to be in the custody of other accused”.

Stating the investigation of the case had not yet been completed, the journalist was “required to be interrogated on the point of modus operandi”.

‘There is just vagueness’

Lawyer Muhammad Jibran Nasir said that the FIR, inquiry notice and remand report do not cite a specific piece of content that the FIA alleged to be defamatory or anti-state.

“The big issue is that no URLs or links were presented in any of these documents,” Nasir told Dawn.com. “Tomorrow, they (authorities) can present anything and claim that was what he said.”

Nasir continued: “No date was given either. Incidents need a date, a time and an audience. None of these details are mentioned. Are they investigating him for one video or four?

“There is just vagueness,” he said when asked about the case.

Nasir also highlighted that the magistrate should not have issued remand in today’s hearing, as Section 26A was not passed into law at the time of the initial inquiry.

“The FIA’s initial inquiry was launched in November 2024, but Peca was not amended until January 2025. The magistrate should have asked ‘How can he (Mallick) be charged for something that was not an offence?’” he said.

“What is more important is … the failure and the omission on the part of the magistrate to make a note of … why 26A was added when the inquiry was already initiated and how the law can be applied retroactively,” Nasir emphasised.

“The FIR did not disclose any incident, any date … it does not even identify the content that is objectionable,” he added. “The FIR is entirely silent about it. These are parameters that the magistrate missed.”

Similarly, Mallick’s outlet Raftar claimed in a post on X: “At this stage, no concrete evidence has been presented to substantiate the ‘anti-state’ allegations against Mr. Mallick or Raftar.

“We remain committed to upholding the principles of press freedom and due process and will continue to pursue all legal avenues to ensure justice prevails,” it added.

Mallick’s arrest yesterday was met with widespread criticism from the media fraternity as well as rights activists.

The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan had called on authorities to “check the overreach of agencies […] and uphold the right to freedom of expression”.

Pakistan is ranked 152 out of 180 countries in a press freedom index compiled by Reporters Without Borders.

The country has long been criticised by watchdogs for restricting internet access, including temporary bans on YouTube and TikTok, while X is officially blocked.

Source:dawn.com

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5,367 personnel to be deployed for Youm-i-Ali procession in Karachi: police

Imtiaz Ali

March 21, 2025

Karachi police on Friday announced that they would deploy 5,367 personnel as part of their security plan for the next day’s Youm-i-Ali procession, according to a press release.

The release stated that strict security measures had been taken along the route of the procession — which commemorates the martyrdom of Hazrat Ali — and that the personnel deployed were ready to deal with any possible situation.

“The personnel on security duty include 76 senior officers, 725 NGOs, 3469 head constables and constables, 137 women police personnel, 70 personnel of the Special Branch, while 75 personnel of the Rapid Response Force have been deployed,” the statement read.

The police added that 815 traffic police personnel would also be deployed to maintain the flow of traffic in the metropolis, while walk-through gates would be installed at the entry and exit points of the procession.

Additionally, the bomb disposal squad and special branch personnel would also be deployed to conduct a comprehensive search of the participants.

“In case of any emergency, rescue agencies and ambulance services have also been put on alert to provide immediate medical assistance,” the press release read.

“Karachi Police urges the public to keep a close eye on their surroundings and immediately report any suspicious activity or unusual situation to Madagadgar 15. Karachi Police will continue to fulfil its responsibilities to protect the lives and property of citizens and restore law and order,” the statement concluded.

Last year, Youm-i-Ali was observed across Sindh on April 1 as mourning processions in all major cities and towns across the province ended peacefully amid tight security.

In Karachi, the main procession was led from Nishtar Park and after passing through its traditional route, it terminated at Imambargah Hussainia Iranian in Kharadar in the evening.

As part of security measures, all entry points along the route of the procession were sealed off by placing containers until late in the night.

Source:dawn.com

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https://www.dawn.com/news/1899422/5367-personnel-to-be-deployed-for-youm-i-ali-procession-in-karachi-police

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CDNS resumes its Islamic window operations in Nov 2024, NA told

March 22, 2025

ISLAMABAD: Minister of State for Railways Bilal Azhar Kayani, addressing a calling attention notice, confirmed that the Central Directorate of National Savings (CDNS) had resumed its Islamic Window Operations in November 2024.

The notice was raised by Aliya Kamran to draw the attention of the finance and revenue department to an urgent public concern regarding the non-implementation of National Savings schemes in compliance with Islamic Sharia, which has caused significant distress among people.

Kayani explained that the CDNS had initially launched its Islamic investment schemes in July 2023, offering four different products with varying tenures, including options for running accounts as well as one-, three- and five-year deposit plans.

These schemes were designed in accordance with Islamic financial principles. However, due to the exhaustion of underlying assets that back these instruments, the operations were temporarily suspended in February 2024. Once additional assets were secured, the operations resumed in November 2024. So far, investments in these Islamic financial products have reached Rs64 billion, with availability across physical branches and digital platforms.

The minister assured that existing investors who had invested before the February 2024 suspension faced no disruptions in their returns. The temporary halt only affected new customers, who were able to invest again starting in November 2024.He further noted that, apart from Islamic financial products, the CDNS continues to offer other national savings schemes for people. The government remains committed to improving these offerings to better serve the people, he added.

Source:thenews.com.pk

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https://www.thenews.com.pk/print/1294050-cdns-resumes-its-islamic-window-operations-in-nov-2024-na-told

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Arab World

 

Prophet’s Mosque receives 4,000 worshipers from 120 countries for I’tikaf

March 21, 2025

MADINAH: The Prophet’s Mosque welcomed 4,000 worshipers, both men and women, from 120 countries for I’tikaf (staying in a mosque for the purpose of worship) during the last 10 nights of Ramadan.

Upon arrival, worshipers were directed to their designated areas: the western rooftop section for men, accessible via staircases No. 6 and 10, and the northeastern section for women, with entry through doors 24 and 25A.

The General Authority for the Affairs of the Grand Mosque and the Prophet’s Mosque immediately began providing services to facilitate worship with ease and comfort, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

Among the services were a dedicated help desk for worshipers, secure lockers for belongings, medical clinics, first aid, multilingual translation support, religious lessons and full meal provisions for iftar, dinner, and sahoor.

Additionally, mobile charging stations were available, and each worshiper received a personal care kit and a wristband to facilitate easy movement, access to designated areas and seamless service provision.

Source:arabnews.com

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Saudi aid center distributes 3,800 boxes of dates in Aden

March 21, 2025

ADEN: The King Salman Center for Relief and Humanitarian Aid recently distributed 3,800 boxes of dates across the districts of Mansoura, Sheikh Othman, and Dar Saad in Aden province, Yemen.

The distribution benefited 22,800 individuals, including displaced persons and people with special needs, as part of KSrelief’s 2025 date assistance distribution project in the country.

The center also distributed 300 food baskets in Costanta, Romania, benefiting 1,500 individuals. This is part of the Etaam Food Basket Distribution Project.

These initiatives are part of the Kingdom’s relief and humanitarian efforts carried out to support those in need and alleviate suffering worldwide.

Source:arabnews.com

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How Saudi Arabia is pioneering soil quality and water conservation solutions

JASMINE BAGER

March 21, 2025

JEDDAH: For more than a decade Saudi Arabia has invested in sustainability, implementing groundbreaking initiatives to combat desertification, improve soil quality and preserve water.

These efforts are transforming the Kingdom’s landscape, aligning with the broader goals of the Saudi Green Initiative.

One of the most ambitious projects is King Salman Park in Riyadh — one of the world’s largest urban parks. The initiative focuses on increasing green spaces, restoring soil health and mitigating the urban heat island effect.

Native tree planting and sustainable water management systems are key components, ensuring long-term environmental benefits.

Meanwhile, on the Kingdom’s east coast, Saudi Aramco has spearheaded efforts to manage soil erosion, improve water retention and enhance biodiversity.

But it is in the laboratories of King Abdullah University of Science and Technology where cutting-edge technology is shaping the future of sustainable soil solutions.

Himanshu Mishra, an associate professor at KAUST, has spent the last decade addressing some of Saudi Arabia’s biggest environmental challenges. A specialist in water properties, his early research led him to an eye-opening realization about the Kingdom’s water usage.

“When I came to Saudi Arabia, I learned about the stress on water,” Mishra told Arab News. “Somebody told me that 80 percent of Saudi Arabia’s water is used for food production, yet (the country) is importing most of its food. That just blew my mind. I was disturbed by it.”

Inspired by nature’s ability to repel water, Mishra co-founded SandX, a biodegradable, water-repellent sand coating designed to reduce water evaporation.

The technology mimics nature’s super water-repellent surfaces — like butterfly wings and bird feathers — to create a revolutionary material.

“This material, it hates water. It absolutely hates water,” said Mishra. “This is SandX, and water doesn’t penetrate it.

Each grain of SandX is coated with a nanoscale layer of biodegradable paraffin wax, reducing water evaporation by over 80 percent without the use of plastics. “Bacteria will eat the wax, so SandX will become sand again,” Mishra said.

“No one has ever done this in Saudi Arabia. We are the engineers, the first ones to do that. We are pioneers in this.”

Water scarcity, however, is only part of the challenge. “Do you know how old this water is?” Mishra asked, holding up a bottle. “This water is older than our planet. We have limited water resources, but we still have some resources. What we don’t have (are) fertile soils.”

Green spaces in Saudi Arabia are heavily dependent on imported peat moss, he said, a practice that is not only expensive but also counterproductive to sustainability.

“You import so much peat moss every year — it’s a multi-million-dollar market. And you rely on these imports. It defeats the whole purpose of sustainability.”

To address this, Mishra developed CarboSoil, a groundbreaking soil amendment and carbon capture technology derived from organic waste.

Unlike traditional compost, which eventually releases carbon back into the air, CarboSoil locks carbon into the soil while enhancing plant growth.

“This is the only technology known to humanity that does soil amendment and carbon capture at the same time,” he said.

Field trials for CarboSoil are ongoing, with production scaling up following a KAUST Innovation and Economic Development grant. Mishra believes the impact will be transformative.

“Our technology will contribute to food production and greening projects in arid regions,” he said. “When you apply it on plants, they grow bigger and stronger — like 60 percent bigger, with wider trunks. Enhanced food production. Enhanced yields. That’s additional carbon capture.”

Looking ahead, Mishra envisions Saudi Arabia leading the world in carbon dioxide removal.

“I can guarantee you that as we continue to scale up this production under the stewardship of the Ministry of Environment, Water, and Agriculture, in less than five years, Saudi Arabia will be ranked number one in carbon dioxide removal deliveries on the planet.”

The startup’s ambitions extend far beyond the Kingdom. “Right now, our goal is to contribute to the landscaping and green sector in the Kingdom,” he said.

“In phase three, we start building factories for poultry farms, date farms, and other industries. Phase four is we will expand to the wider Middle East.”

Source:arabnews.com

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Taif governor meets plants cooperative members

March 21, 2025

TAIF: Taif Gov. Prince Saud bin Nahar met with Abdulrahman Al-Sherbi, president of the Rose and Aromatic Plants Cooperative Association, in the presence of representatives from relevant government agencies.

During the meeting, the prince was briefed on the association’s recent initiatives, as well as upcoming programs and activities.

The governor commended the collaborative efforts between government and public entities, highlighting the uniqueness of Taif’s roses and aromatic plants and their potential on the international stage.

Source:arabnews.com

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Holy cities experience moderate to heavy rains amid forecast of more until Sunday

RASHID HASSAN

March 21, 2025

RIYADH: As Ramadan enters its final 10 nights – Qiyam Al-Layl – several of Saudi Arabia’s regions experienced moderate to heavy rain on Thursday, including the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah.

Al-Jami’ah district in Jeddah city recorded the highest levels with 24.8mm of rain.

The National Center for Meteorology has forecast this to continue until Sunday. Parts of Makkah, Al-Baha, Aseer, Jazan and Najran, in addition to parts of Qassim, Riyadh, and Eastern regions, can expect gusty winds, moderate to heavy rain, and hailstorms. There will be dust-stirring winds in Madinah, Tabuk, Al-Jouf and the Northern Borders region,

The rain in Makkah came as a blessing for Umrah pilgrims, giving them some respite from hot weather.

Faiz Al-Najdi, a Yanbu resident, told Arab News: “It was pleasant weather in Makkah, I performed Umrah with family with ease and even performed Friday prayer in the open courtyard at the grand mosque. I feel blessed to perform my religious duty and enjoy good weather.”

Meanwhile, the General Directorate of Civil Defense has called for caution and the need to remain in safe areas, avoiding areas prone to flooding and low-lying valleys. It warned people to refrain from swimming in them and urged adherence to any instructions announced by local authorities via various media outlets and social media platforms.

Text messages sent to residents in Riyadh said: “Forecasts from the NCM indicate that moderate to heavy rains will fall on the Riyadh region (Riyadh, Diriyah, Dhurma, Al-Muzahmiyya, Rimah, Al-Kharj, Al-Dilam, Al-Hariq, Hawtah Bani Tamim). Rain conditions predicted from Wednesday to Saturday, corresponding to March 19 to 22, 2025.”

It also warned of flash floods and high waves on the coasts, as well as hailstorms in the highlands.

Winds over the Red Sea will be northwesterly to northerly, reaching 25-50 km per hour in northern and central parts, and northeasterly to southeasterly, reaching 15-45 km per hour in the south.

Waves might range from 1.5 meters to more than 2 meters and the sea is likely to be choppy.

In the Arabian Gulf, winds will be easterly to southeasterly at speeds of 12-40 km per hour. Waves may range from half a meter to more than 2 meters and the sea will be calm to choppy.

Source:arabnews.com

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Spanish ambassador bids fond farewell to Saudi Arabia

LAMA ALHAMAWI

March 21, 2025

RIYADH: As he prepared to say a fond farewell to Saudi Arabia, Jorge Sierra, Spain’s ambassador to the Kingdom, reflected on some of his most cherished memories and shared his perspective on Saudi-Spanish relations.

“It’s been a wonderful experience to know such a beautiful country with such a strong personality, at a moment of social and economic changes that is fascinating to see. There are so many things going on here,” he said.

Sierra was appointed ambassador on Oct. 21, 2021, and arrived in the Kingdom the following month. In an interview with Arab News, he said was already somewhat familiar with Saudi Arabia thanks to conversations with his predecessors and a visit to the country in 2002, and shared some of his fondest memories of working there.

“My most memorable experience, without any doubt, was going to the Empty Quarter; it was amazing,” he said.

“We were a group of 12 and we went with a group of professionals that specialize in that particular kind of tourism. We went for three days and it was great. It was fascinating. I am so happy that I did it.”

Another of his highlights was the ancient city of AlUla, which he said he visited several times.

On the day-to-day business of diplomacy, Sierra said bilateral relations are “excellent” and both countries are “satisfied on a political level.”

Thanks to exchange visits and ministerial efforts on both sides “trade is in a good position” and “cultural ties are also strong,” he added, but work continues to enhance the relationship even further: “We always think that we can do more. We want more.”

As for what the future might hold for cooperation between the countries, he said: “The future is bright in our bilateral relations. We are working on creating a structure that allows us to upgrade our relations to a strategic level.”

In his role as ambassador over the past three-and-a-half years, Sierra played a significant part in the development of relations between the countries in various fields. But are there any moments he looks back on with particular fondness?

“There is one that I will never forget,” he said. “In the cultural field we organized, in October 2023, a concert with a very famous Spanish musician.”

The musician was Jose Hevia, a renowned Spanish bagpiper, and the concert was a collaboration between the Spanish Embassy, the Saudi Ministry of Culture’s Music Commission, and the Royal Commission for Riyadh City.

“He played with a Saudi musician who played traditional instruments. It was at the Cultural Palace,” he said, adding that there was not a single empty seat in the 600-capacity venue. “I will always remember (it).”

Sierra also noted the political changes that have been taking place in the Kingdom and said: “Saudi Arabia is becoming sort of a world hub of diplomacy.”

His time as ambassador will officially end on March 25, when he will return to Madrid to embark on a new challenge in international law department of Spain’s Foreign Ministry. He said he was looking forward to this new role, which will have a particular focus on humanitarian law, because private and public international law was his favorite subject at university and now he has the chance to work in that field.

“I am so happy because I will pay a debt that I have with myself; I will have the chance to be and work in a field I am really interested in,” he said.

As the Saudi chapter of his career comes to an end, Sierra thanked his team at the embassy, including his counselors in economics and cultural affairs and other topics, for their help spearheading programs designed to advance Saudi-Spanish ties.

His successor as ambassador to Saudi Arabia will be Javier Carbajosa Sanchez, who previously served as Spain’s envoy to Qatar.

Source:arabnews.com

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https://www.arabnews.com/node/2594363/saudi-arabia

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Abu Dhabi Police warn against fake Ramadan contests on social media

March 22, 2025

Abu Dhabi: During Ramadan, radio, online, and social media competitions become increasingly frequent, fueling intense enthusiasm and obsession among residents.

However, Abu Dhabi Police have warned the public to be cautious. They have issued a warning to the public about fraudulent Ramadan contests that lure victims by promising prizes. Scammers typically inform their targets that they have won a contest and then request personal and banking details under the pretense of transferring the prize money. Authorities emphasised that the true intent behind these schemes is financial fraud and theft. Additionally, they have cautioned against fake charity links shared on social media by unauthorised organisations.

Social media platforms transform into promotional arenas for companies and brands, often led by celebrities under the guise of Ramadan competitions or riddles. Many followers eagerly engage with these ads and influencers, driven by the hope of winning. Amid this frenzy, scammers and fraudsters exploit people’s obsession and relentless pursuit of victory. They create fake contests and fraudulent websites designed to deceive participants, aiming to steal their money or gain access to sensitive personal information, such as bank account details, identification numbers, and security codes.

Major General Mohammed Suhail Al Rashidi, Director of the Criminal Security Sector at Abu Dhabi Police, stated that perpetrators exploit victims by deceiving them with promises of financial rewards from these fraudulent Ramadan contests. He explained that scammers often demand balance transfers from victims as part of the so-called prize claim process.

He stressed the importance of verifying the authenticity of such websites, refraining from disclosing confidential information, and resisting any form of blackmail or pressure to transfer money. He urged the public to adhere to the guidelines set by relevant authorities and to remain vigilant against cybercrime.

Meanwhile, Brigadier Rashid Khalaf Al Dhaheri, Director of the Criminal Investigation Directorate, called on the public to ignore anonymous advertisements and messages circulating on social media and messaging apps. These fraudulent campaigns often exploit religious sentiments and humanitarian causes to solicit unauthorized financial donations.

He urged individuals wishing to contribute to charitable causes to do so through officially accredited organisations and legal channels. The public is encouraged to report suspicious activities by calling 800 2626, sending an SMS with relevant security information to 2828, or contacting Abu Dhabi Police via their official website at www.aman.gov.ae.

Source:gulfnews.com

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https://gulfnews.com/uae/ramadan/abu-dhabi-police-warns-against-fake-ramadan-contests-on-social-media-1.500067044

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Oman announces entry restrictions to Mecca for 2025 Hajj season

March 21, 2025

Dubai: Oman’s Ministry of Endowments and Religious Affairs (MERA) has announced that entry to or residence in the city of Mecca will be restricted during the 2025 Hajj season, in coordination with authorities in Saudi Arabia.

In a statement, the ministry said that, based on official communication from Saudi authorities, access to Mecca will be prohibited from 1 Dhu Al Qi’dah 1446 AH (April 29, 2025) until 14 Dhu Al Hijjah 1446 AH (June 11, 2025).

The restrictions are part of crowd management and security measures implemented annually during the Hajj pilgrimage.

MERA called on all citizens to fully comply with the regulations throughout the specified period, noting that the directive aims to ensure the safety and organisation of one of the largest religious gatherings in the world.

Source:gulfnews.com

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https://gulfnews.com/world/gulf/oman/oman-announces-entry-restrictions-to-mecca-for-2025-hajj-season-1.500068448

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Saudi Arabia: Number of Mecca mosques raised to 849 amid worshipper influx

March 21, 2025

Cairo: Starting from today, 167 additional mosques will open their doors for the faithful to perform the Friday congregation and Eid prayers across the Saudi holy city of Mecca, bringing to 849 the total of such places of worship to cope with an influx of worshippers and ensure their comfort.

Saudi Minister of Islamic Affairs and Call Abdulatif Al Al Sheikh has endorsed the introduction of the latest group of mosques with an estimated capacity of more than 200,000 worshippers.

Mecca is home to the Grand Mosque, Islam’s holiest. With the latest addition, the overall capacity of mosques within the precincts of Mecca surpasses 1 million worshippers.

All mosques and their facilities are equipped to serve worshippers according to the highest standards of comfort.

The Ministry of Islamic Affairs has tasked a select group of preachers and imams with leading prayers and urged maintenance and operation companies to provide efficient services around the clock.

Saudi authorities have mobilised all sources to enrich the experience of worshippers flocking to Mecca during the current Islamic month of Ramadan when the Umrah or minor pilgrimage usually peaks in the Grand Mosque. The lunar month is expected to end on March 29, followed by the Islamic Eid Al Fitr festival.

Muslims perform a special group prayer on the early morning of the first day of the feast.

Source:gulfnews.com

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https://gulfnews.com/world/gulf/saudi/saudi-arabia-number-of-mecca-mosques-raised-to-849-amid-worshipper-influx-1.500068353

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Southeast Asia

 

Muslims Urged To Be Mindful On Social Media, Avoid Disrupting Harmony

21/03/2025

KUALA LUMPUR, March 21 (Bernama) -- Muslims are advised to be more mindful when expressing themselves on social media, ensuring that their words do not cause division or disrupt the harmony of Malaysia’s multiracial society. Chairman of the Muzakarah Committee of the National Council for Islamic Religious Affairs Malaysia (MKI) Datuk Dr Nooh Gadot emphasised that upholding good morals in speech and writing is a fundamental religious requirement. "Islam is a religion that places great emphasis on moral values. Using words that hurt fellow Muslims, offend other races, or incite hatred goes against the teachings of Islam, which places great emphasis on unity and mutual respect," he said in a statement today. He said the Kalimah Toyyibah campaign, initiated by the Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs), Datuk Dr Mohd Na’im Mokhtar, in August last year aligns perfectly with current challenges, reinforcing the importance of positive and respectful communication. The campaign aims to foster a society that values politeness, courtesy, and wisdom in social interactions, by making Prophet Muhammad SAW - renowned for his exemplary character and virtues - as the ultimate role model. "Therefore, I humbly urge all Muslims in Malaysia, as well as people of other races, to be mindful, responsible, and thoughtful when expressing their views on social media."May every word we speak bring benefits to both Muslims and non-Muslims alike while preserving the harmony and unity of our beloved nation," he said. -- BERNAMA

Source:bernama.com

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Jakim points police towards social media posts mocking Islam

22 Mar 2025

KUALA KANGSAR, March 22 — The Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (Jakim) yesterday lodged a police report over insults against Islam posted by irresponsible parties on social media.

Its director-general, Datuk Dr Sirajuddin Suhaimee, said Jakim’s Corporate Communication Unit representatives filed the report at the Putrajaya District Police Headquarters at about 8.30am.

“Some posts contained elements of insult towards Islam, the Quran and Prophet Muhammad, causing unease, especially among Muslims.

“We are leaving it to the police and the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission to investigate and take necessary action,” he told reporters at a breaking of fast event held in conjunction with the Madani Adopted Village programme at Al-Munariah Mosque, Kampung Menora yesterday.

On March 16, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Datuk Dr Mohd Na’im Mokhtar said any form of insult against religion, particularly Islam, must not be tolerated, and firm action should be taken to preserve national harmony.

Sirajuddin further said that Jakim reminded Muslims not to engage in provocation or retaliation over insults against Islam, as it would only prolong the issue.

He added that the department remains open to discussions with non-Muslims on matters that could affect racial and religious harmony in the country.

Meanwhile, he said 50 orphans from Rumah Kanak-Kanak Kuala Kangsar were feted at today’s event, where they received duit raya and daily essentials.

“This programme aims to share blessings and enliven Ramadan through activities that benefit all groups, including orphans,” he said. — Bernama

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For undocumented migrants in Madrid, Ramadan iftar brings comfort and chance to ‘forget problems’

21 Mar 2025

MADRID, March 21 — At a bustling square in Madrid’s multicultural Lavapies neighbourhood, Baye Serigne, a 23-year-old undocumented immigrant from Senegal, broke his Ramadan fast with a few friends on a recent evening.

“It fills your stomach,” he said as he ate a yassa sandwich, a speciality made with marinated beef and onions after spending more than an hour on public transport to reach the square from the migrant shelter where he lives.

“Here it is a bit like my Dakar, where you can find ways to get by,” said Serigne, a mechanic by training who arrived in the Spanish capital in October and is spending his first Ramadan alone in Spain, far from his family.

During the month of Ramadan, which this year runs through March, observant Muslims do not eat between sunrise and sundown, breaking their fast with a meal known as iftar.

Since 2018 a group of Senegalese have distributed iftar meals in the square during Ramadan to anyone, whether they are Muslim or not.

Fewer than 30 people turned up in the early days, but on some nights this year the group hands out more than 400 sandwiches, said Aliou Badara Wagnan, one of the organisers of the meal distribution.

This year between 50 and 200 people gather in the square every evening for an iftar meal under the watchful eye of the police, he added.

“For those who have just arrived in Spain, it’s very complicated,” the 33-year-old said.

“They are staying in shelters, they don’t have enough to buy what they need or to cook. We are simply trying to make sure that everyone can eat.”

‘Talk and laugh’

For many west African migrants without papers, the gathering is about more than just free food — it is a chance to exchange survival tips or to talk about the disappointments of their lives as undocumented immigrants.

“I try to come every day. It feels good to have a good time and forget about the problems. We talk and laugh with each other,” said Assana, a 23-year-old former fisherman from Saint-Louis, a coastal city in northern Senegal.

Like Serigne, Assana, who did not want to give his surname, is spending his first Ramadan far from his homeland. He scrapes by on the little more than 1,000 euros ($1,080) a month he earns doing odd jobs.

“The biggest problem is not the work, but the lack of papers,” Assana said.

Without permission to work, many young migrants like Assana — who cannot stay in their shelters during the day — wander aimlessly around Lavapies, with its narrow streets filled with Bangladeshi fruit shops and African restaurants.

“We do nothing all day. If someone gave me money to leave, I think I would,” said one migrant who declined to be named.

Pro-immigration stance

Most still hope to become legal residents.

All of the undocumented migrants interviewed by AFP in Lavapies, aged 18 to 30, risked their lives to reach Spain’s Canary Islands in the Atlantic from Africa in precarious boats.

Last year a record 46,843 migrants illegally reached the archipelago off the northwestern coast of Africa, often the first port of call for people quitting the continent hoping for a better life in Europe.

Spain needs “more hands” to work, said Wagnan, who has lived in Spain for the past seven years where he says he has easily found work on building sites.

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez seems to agree.

Unlike the bulk of his counterparts in Europe, the Socialist premier argues immigration is needed to fill workforce gaps and counteract an ageing population that could imperil pensions and the welfare state.

Spain’s economy expanded by 3.2 per cent in 2024, far outperforming its eurozone peers due to a booming tourism sector and a rising population as a result of immigration. — AFP

Source:malaymail.com

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MADANI Government Always Appreciates Religious Community - Zulkifli

22/03/2025

IPOH, March 22 (Bernama) -- The Special Financial Aid (BKK) for Aidilfitri to religious officials announced by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim yesterday proves that the government appreciates the role played by them. Deputy Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Religious Affairs) Dr Zulkifli Hasan said the assistance of RM250 to Quran and Fardhu Ain (KAFA) class teachers, takmir teachers, imams, bilals, mosque caretakers, janitors, and custodians is proof of the government's appreciation for their efforts in improving the teachings of Islam. "Alhamdulillah, 2025 started very well with the increase in civil servant salaries, followed by the BKK Aidilfitri, not only for civil servants, retirees including pensioned and non-pensioned veterans but also the religious community,” he told a press conference after opening the In-Service Training (LADAP) for Teachers of Maahad Al-Ummah Government-Aided Religious Schools (SABK) and the MADANI Ihsan Programme near here today. Yesterday, Anwar announced tha  the Aidilfitri BKK would be paid next week involving 70,000 recipients with an allocation of RM17 million. Earlier, Zulkifli, in his speech, said that Muslim teachers play a crucial role in guiding students to uphold and promote Islam as a religion of peace and compassion, in line with the government's vision. "Educators serve as role models of good character and morality, reflecting the true essence of Islam, as demonstrated by Prophet  Muhammad (PBUH).The principle of wasatiyyah (moderation) remains the foundation for addressing differences in thought among Muslims in this country, in line with the Maqasid Syariah and the beliefs of Ahli Sunnah Wal Jamaah," he said. He said the concept of Malaysia MADANI that the government is championing today not only promotes moderation in thinking and action but also calls for unity of a multi-racial society. At the event, Zulkifli also presented a touch screen and interactive whiteboard (Smartboard) donated by Taqwa Foundation of the Federal Territory Islamic Religious Council (MAIWP) to SABK Maahad Al-Ummah and Aidilfitri packs to 50 ‘asnaf’ students at the school. -- BERNAMA

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Anwar Announces RM250 Aidilfitri Aid For KAFA Teachers, Imams And Mosque Personnel

21/03/2025

CHUKAI, March 21 (Bernama) -- Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has announced a RM250 Aidilfitri special financial aid for Quran and Fardu Ain (KAFA) teachers, Takmir teachers, imams, bilal, tok siak, noja and marbut across the country. He said the aid will be disbursed next week, benefiting about 70,000 recipients with a total allocation of RM17 million. “Earlier, I announced the RM500 Aidilfitri aid for civil servants. This also includes RM250 for military veterans, both pensioners and nonpensioners, as well as retirees. “Tonight, I want to extend this assistance to KAFA teachers, Takmir teachers, imams, bilals, tok siak, noja and marbut,” he said during the MADANI state-level Ramadan breaking of fast event at the Sultan Ahmad Mosque here today. Anwar, who is also Finance Minister, said the government recognises and appreciates the significant contributions of these individuals, leading to the decision to provide the aid. The government today had also announced a RM500 Aidilfitri special financial aid for civil servants in Grade 56 and below, which will be paid on March 24. All government retirees, including both pensioned and non-pensioned military veterans, will also receive RM250 under the special festive aid.-- BERNAMA Source:bernama.com

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Daily waste collection at Ramadan bazaars in Selangor reduced by 40% - KDEBWM

Bernama

22-03- 2025

SHAH ALAM: The total amount of waste collected daily at Ramadan bazaars in Selangor this year has reduced by about 40 per cent, from 70 tonnes last year to 40 tonnes, said KDEB Waste Management (KDEBWM) managing director Datuk Ramli Mohd Tahir.

He attributed this decline to increasing awareness among the community and traders in managing their expenses and businesses more prudently, avoiding excess during the fasting month.

“This year, we have been tasked with managing Ramadan bazaar waste in seven local government authorities, covering 152 locations with 9,832 stalls.

“For this year, we are seeing nearly a 50 per cent decrease—perhaps because people are more mindful about avoiding waste, and traders are not overproducing and ending up with unsold goods,“ he said when met at the Ramadan Charity Event yesterday.

Meanwhile, Ramli ensured a smooth garbage collection during the Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebration.

“I can assure you that KDEB operates 365 days a year,” he said, adding that plans are also made for the garbage collectors to enter residential areas early and to complete it before the Raya prayers.

Source:thesun.my

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LFL repeats 'mosque next to temple' plan, hits out at Anwar

Mar 22, 2025

An advocate for the preservation of the Dewi Sri Pathrakaliamman temple in Kuala Lumpur has reiterated a proposal to retain the structure at its current location, and for the proposed mosque to be built on the adjacent vacant plot.

Lawyers for Liberty executive director Zaid Malek, who mooted the idea during a March 20 press conference, repeated his call in response to Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim's reported remarks yesterday that "the mosque will be built, and the temple will be given a place."

Source:malaysiakini.com

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Book ban proposal reinforces thesis of Kuru’s book, says publisher

Mar 22, 2025

The proposal by religious authorities to ban one of the books by the scholar Ahmet T Kuru reinforces the book’s central thesis, said the book’s publisher Pertubuhan Lestari Hikmah Malaysia.

It explained that the 2022 book “Perikatan Ulama-Negara: Punca Autoritarianisme dan Kemunduran Dunia Muslim” (The Ulama-State Alliance: A Cause of Authoritarianism and Underdevelopment in the Muslim World) presents an examination of how Islamic authorities censor and suppress views, even those long recognised as legitimate differences.

The publisher also criticised the lack of dialogue in the lead-up to...

Source:malaysiakini.com

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From pistachio to red velvet, mini ‘apom balik’ a hit at Bayan Baru Ramadan Bazaar

By Opalyn Mok

22 Mar 2025

GEORGE TOWN, March 22 — Set aide for now the traditional apom balik (sweet pancake turnover, also known as apam balik) filled with plain crushed peanuts and creamed corn— since it now comes in a variety of flavours including pistachio, blueberry, cheesy nutella and red velvet.

These multi-flavoured apom balik, which come in mini sizes, are proving to be a hit at the Arpan Apom Balik stall in the Bayan Baru Ramadan Bazaar.

Stall vendor Muhamad Hanafi Arpan and his wife Anis Nurfitrin Anis Zairin came up with the idea for different flavours of mini apom balik last year and decided to introduce it at the Ramadan bazaar.

“On normal days, we only sell these mini apom balik at two kiosks, one in Bangsawan Cafe in Bayan Lepas and another at Fizzy Cafe in Permatang Pauh,” he said when interviewed at the stall in the Bayan Baru Ramadan Bazaar.

He said they decided to sell 10 different flavours of mini apom balik, that are about palm sized, especially at the Ramadan Bazaar this month.

“We have many different flavours such as pistachio, red velvet, blueberry, strawberry, Nutella, cheesy chocolate, Oreo, cheesy Nutella and Nutella red velvet,” he said.

“I only started selling in this bazaar this week but I did not expect to get such good response,” he added.

Muhamad Hanafi said he sold about 2,000 mini apom balik in the first three days of opening his stall at the bazaar.

The mini apom balik are sold in sets of four at RM10 or a set of nine at RM20.

“The customers can pick and choose the flavours they like for either sets,” he said.

The 29-year-old inherited the apom balik business from his late father in 2009 after he passed away.

“My father started the business in 1996 and after he passed away, my mother and I took over the business,” he said.

He said he continued using the original recipe handed down from his late father and he only changed the fillings for the apom balik to make it interesting and attract more customers.

Apart from selling the apom balik at the two kiosks, Muhamad Hanafi said he also sells the crispy pancakes at several pasar malams (night markets) on designated days.

He would set up stall at the Teluk Kumbar pasar malam (Tuesdays), Pantai Jerejak (Wednesdays), Mahsuri Bayan Baru (Thursdays), Sungai Ara (Fridays) and Bayan Lepas (Saturdays).

“I don’t sell mini apom balik at the pasar malams and I don’t offer as much variety in the fillings,” he said.

He said customers who prefer the mini apom balik can only get it at his kiosks.

“We are also accepting orders for events such as birthdays and weddings,” he said.

Muhamad Hanafi has big plans for his apom balik business as he hopes to set up a factory to make pre-mixed apom balik ingredients.

“It is my dream to set up a factory to produce Arpan Apom Balik brand ingredients mixture,” he said.

Currently, he is in the process of obtaining halal certification for his business so that he could participate in various events nationwide.

“I hope to open more branches throughout the country so that more people can taste our Arpan Apom Balik,” he said.

Source:malaymail.com

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Terengganu outlaws all live music for remainder of Ramadan

21 Mar 2025

KUALA TERENGGANU, March 21 — The Terengganu government has banned all street music performances or busking during the last 10 nights of Ramadan.

State Local Government, Housing and Health Committee chairman Datuk Wan Sukairi Wan Abdullah said the ban, in effect from yesterday until March 30, aims to honour and preserve the sanctity of the last 10 nights of Ramadan.

“This directive has been communicated to all owners of business premises and supermarkets that host busking performances across Terengganu.

“In addition, letters have been sent to all organisers of Ramadan bazaars, moreh festivals, and Aidilfitri bazaars throughout the state,” he said when contacted today.

Wan Sukairi said any party found violating the regulation would face legal action by the local authorities (PBT).

Previously, Terengganu had mandated that all street music performances could only be held after tarawih prayers, with song selections limited to religious themes.

Additionally, only male singers were allowed to perform, while women were strictly prohibited from participating in such activities. — Bernama

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South Asia

 

Security Forces Seize Smuggled Weapons in Paktika Province

2025-03-22

PAKTIKA(BNA): Security forces in Paktika province have successfully intercepted a shipment of weapons and ammunition that were being smuggled into Afghanistan. The operation took place in the Pinkay area of Torwa district, where authorities discovered a cache of arms being transported across an imaginary line.

The seized items include a substantial arsenal: 16 Kalashnikov rifles, 5 M4 rifles, 16 handguns, 4,500 rounds of pistol ammunition, 48 silenced pistol muzzles, 6,000 electric firecrackers, and two motorcycles.

While the arms smugglers managed to escape across the border, security forces have vowed to continue their investigations to dismantle the broader smuggling network.

Authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities that could relate to arms smuggling.

Source:bakhtarnews.af

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Torkham border to reopen today for all types of travel and trade between Afghanistan and Pakistan

By Fidel Rahmati-

March 22, 2025

The Torkham border crossing between Afghanistan and Pakistan will reopen today, March 22, for all types of travel and trade, following a prolonged closure, easing movement and commerce between the two nations.

Taliban security officials have announced that the Torkham crossing will be reopened for all types of travel. This decision comes after a prolonged closure, and it is expected to ease movement between Afghanistan and Pakistan.

Sayed Tayeb Hammad, a spokesperson for the Taliban’s Nangarhar security command, confirmed that the crossing will be reopened on Saturday, March 22. This marks a positive development after an extended closure, and many are hopeful it will improve bilateral trade and travel.

He added that in the coming days, urgent medical cases will be allowed to pass through the Torkham crossing. This measure is aimed at providing relief to those in need of immediate medical care, further demonstrating the Taliban’s focus on urgent humanitarian issues.

However, the Taliban spokesperson advised citizens to refrain from traveling to the Torkham crossing for the time being, as it could lead to overcrowding. The officials want to ensure a smooth reopening and avoid unnecessary delays and confusion.

Last week, the Taliban and Pakistani officials reached an agreement to reopen the Torkham crossing after it had been closed for 25 days. This decision signifies a mutual commitment to enhance cross-border cooperation and ensure the well-being of citizens in both countries.

This move is likely to benefit trade, particularly in the movement of goods and services, and could pave the way for future agreements that improve the overall relationship between Afghanistan and Pakistan. The reopening of the Torkham crossing is seen as an important step in maintaining stability and facilitating essential travel for citizens of both countries.

Source:khaama.com

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One-Third of Afghans struggle with hunger: WFP

By Fidel Rahmati

March 22, 2025

The World Food Program (WFP) reports that one-third of Afghanistan’s population is facing severe hunger due to ongoing economic challenges.

The World Food Program (WFP) has stated that one in three people in Afghanistan is facing hunger, especially as Nowruz approaches.

On Friday, March 21, the WFP posted a message on social media highlighting the fact that Afghans traditionally celebrate Nowruz by preparing “Samanu,” a special dish, but many of them no longer have enough food to do so. The WFP emphasized its efforts to provide essential food to Afghan families in need.

The organization urged its supporters to continue their assistance in addressing the hunger crisis in Afghanistan. The situation has worsened due to widespread unemployment, growing poverty, and the Taliban’s harsh retribution and suppression, which have pushed the majority of the population into a dire state.

Many citizens report that under Taliban rule, not only have they lost hope for a better life, but they also face extreme hardship, struggling even to provide a meal for their children. This deepening crisis has left countless families in despair.

The WFP’s ongoing efforts highlight the critical need for continued international support, as Afghan families grapple with an ongoing hunger crisis amid political instability. Without sustained assistance, many more people in Afghanistan may face life-threatening challenges.

Source:khaama.com

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17 injured in explosion in Helmand Province, says Emergency Hospital

ByFidel Rahmati

March 21, 2025

Emergency Hospital has reported that 17 people were injured in an explosion at a market in the Gereshk district of Helmand province.

In a statement, Emergency Hospital announced that the explosion occurred on Friday, the first day of the new solar 1404 year, in the Gereshk district, which is located to the north of Lashkargah, the capital of Helmand province.

The organization further explained that, immediately following the explosion, two ambulances were dispatched to the scene and transported the 17 injured individuals to the hospital.

According to the statement, five of the injured individuals are in critical condition.

Meanwhile, Dejan Panic, the head of Emergency Hospital in Lashkargah, stated, “Our ambulances have been continuously providing first aid to the injured in Gereshk and Lashkargah. The situation is very critical, and the five injured individuals transferred to Emergency Hospital have various types of trauma, with their conditions being severe.”

He further added that the medical staff at the hospital is diligently attending to the wounded from the incident, providing necessary care and monitoring their conditions.

So far, the Taliban has not issued any official statement regarding the explosion that occurred in Gereshk.

No group or individual has claimed responsibility for the explosion, leaving the cause of the attack uncertain at this time.

Such incidents have become more frequent in Afghanistan, with several explosions and attacks occurring in various regions. ISIS has claimed responsibility for many of these violent acts, including bombings in marketplaces and public spaces.

These attacks, often targeting civilians, create a climate of fear and insecurity. The role of groups like ISIS in these attacks only further complicates the already fragile security situation in Afghanistan.

Source:khaama.com

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Journos attacked at Cumilla hospital while covering ‘death by negligence’

Mar 22, 2025

At least five journalists were injured in an attack allegedly by intern doctors and medical students while covering death due to "negligence" at Cumilla Medical College Hospital last night.

The injured include Khokon Chowdhury, Cumilla correspondent for Jamuna TV, and Zahid Hasan, Channel 24's representative, along with their camera crews.

According to the injured journalists, around 8:30pm, a dead patients' relatives staged a protest at the hospital, alleging that the patient died after being wrongly injected. The journalists came to know that the patient was admitted to the female medicine ward, and the fatal mistake reportedly occurred when a medicine meant for another patient was administered.

When they arrived at the hospital around 10:30pm to collect statements from the family, a group of intern doctors and medical students allegedly attacked them and vandalised cameras and mobile phones.

The attack triggered panic among patients and their attendants.

Mahinul Islam, officer-in-charge of Cumilla Kotwali Police Station, confirmed the attack on the journalists and said a police team was sent immediately, and legal action would be taken.

Following the attack, injured journalists staged a protest in front of the hospital's emergency department.

Mir Shah Alam, senior vice-president of Cumilla Press Club, condemned the attack, demanding that looted cameras and mobile phones be returned by 11:00am today, threatening of a tougher movement otherwise.

Enamul Haque Faruk, president of Cumilla Press Club, also urged strict action against those responsible.

Despite multiple attempts, Cumilla Medical College Hospital Director Dr Masudur Parvez could not be reached for comments.

The injured journalists received primary treatment at Cumilla Sadar Hospital.

This morning, Cumilla Press Club President Faruk confirmed that journalists would stage a human chain in front of the press club around 11:00am in protest.

Source:thedailystar.net

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Bayat Foundation delivers Ramadan aid to needy families in Bamyan

March 21, 2025

Bayat Foundation has announced it has distributed Ramadan aid packages to dozens of needy families in Bamyan province.

These aid packages include flour, oil, and rice, intending to assist those in need during the holy month of Ramadan.

Officials from the foundation stated that these donations will be extended to needy families in other provinces of the country by the end of Ramadan.

“As part of the Bayat Foundation’s ongoing assistance, today we are distributing Ramadan aid packages in Bamyan province. These packages contain flour, rice, and oil,” said Sayed Hakim, a representative of the Bayat Foundation in Bamyan.

Meanwhile, recipients of the aid have called on other charitable organizations to also rush to assist those in need during this month.

One recipient expressed gratitude: “Thanks to the Bayat Foundation for considering help for people like us.”

Another recipient added: “Thank you to the Bayat Foundation for helping us, and we hope that in the future, more aid will be provided to the poor people of Bamyan.”

In addition to supporting public welfare projects, healthcare, and those affected by natural disasters, the Bayat Foundation has been providing food and non-food aid to thousands of needy families in the center and provinces of Afghanistan during each Ramadan for nearly two decades.

Source:ariananews.af

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Balkh and Sarkhan Darya Officials Discuss Strengthening Bilateral Cooperation

2025-03-22

BALKH(BNA): Balkh Governor Mullah Mohammad Yousuf Wafa convened with the Special Representative of the Prime Minister of Uzbekistan and the Governor of Sarkhan Darya Province. The discussions focused on the vital areas of economic collaboration, trade, and transit, highlighting the importance of railway and trade cooperation between the two provinces.

Governor Wafa emphasized that fostering strong relations between Afghanistan and Uzbekistan serves the interests of both nations. He advocated for the expansion of border cooperation, underscoring the mutual benefits that can arise from increased connectivity and collaboration.

This meeting marks a crucial step in bolstering bilateral cooperation, paving the way for future initiatives that could enhance economic stability and growth in both regions. The officials expressed optimism about the potential for deeper partnerships that can facilitate trade and improve livelihoods for their respective populations.

Source:bakhtarnews.af

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Kabul Meeting Marks a Step Toward Improved US-Islamic Emirate Ties

2025-03-21

KABUL(BNA): Acting Foreign Minister Mawlavi Amir Khan Muttaqi met with US President’s Special Representative Adam Boehler and former ambassador Zalmay Khalilzad in Kabul.

The meeting, which took place in Kabul focused on several key issues, including the release of prisoners, the enhancement of bilateral tieals, and the provision of consular services.

Minister Muttaqi highlighted the necessity of fostering positive relations and maintaining open dialogue to address ongoing challenges. He expressed optimism that such discussions could pave the way for future cooperation.

Adam Boehler characterized the meeting as a constructive step toward rebuilding trust between the two parties. He emphasized the importance of continued dialogue and cooperation in navigating complex issues that affect both nations.

Source:bakhtarnews.af

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ICRC on World Water Day: Access to water a major challenge for 33 million in Afghanistan

By Fidel Rahmati

March 22, 2025

On World Water Day, the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has highlighted access to water as a major challenge in Afghanistan, emphasizing that 33 million people in the country are facing water shortages.

The ICRC representatives stated on Saturday, March 22, that the water access challenge has direct impacts on public health, food security, and economic growth in the country.

The ICRC further explained that for millions of people in Afghanistan, securing water for drinking, cooking, agriculture, and other basic needs is often not feasible. This has become a significant issue as the lack of access to clean drinking water across various regions of Afghanistan continues to be one of the major problems facing the citizens.

“Access to water is a pressing issue in #Afghanistan, impacting public health, food security and economic growth. An estimated 80% of Afghans lack adequate access to water,” ICRC stated on its social media platform X.

The organization also stated that ” In 2024, we improved access to clean water to over 1.12 million people.”

According to the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), 67% of families in Afghanistan lack access to clean drinking water. This alarming statistic shows the depth of the water crisis in the country, affecting both rural and urban communities.

The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has previously warned that due to rapid urbanization and climate change, Kabul’s groundwater resources might be exhausted by 2030, further exacerbating the water shortage crisis. Such a situation poses severe risks to the population, particularly children, who are most vulnerable to waterborne diseases.

Afghanistan is among the top ten countries most vulnerable to climate change, facing challenges like droughts, devastating floods, and the ongoing water shortage. These environmental factors threaten the country’s future, making it urgent for both local and international efforts to address the water crisis.

In light of the growing water scarcity, it is crucial that international organizations, governments, and local communities collaborate on sustainable water management practices to mitigate the crisis. Improving water infrastructure, enhancing water conservation efforts, and addressing the effects of climate change will be essential to securing a better future for the people of Afghanistan.

Source:khaama.com

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https://www.khaama.com/icrc-on-world-water-day-access-to-water-a-major-challenge-for-33-million-in-afghanistan/

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Gazipur garment workers block highway for 2hrs for dues, Eid bonus

Mar 22, 2025

Thousands of workers of a garment factory blocked Dhaka-Mymensingh highway at Chowrasta intersection for two hours this morning, demanding their due "holiday payment" and Eid bonus.

Around 2,000 workers of Giant Knit Garment Factory took to the streets at 7:00am, halting vehicular movement, police said.

Traffic resumed around 9:00am after law enforcers managed to convince the protesters to clear the road.

Sub-Inspector Abdullah Al Mamun of Gazipur Traffic Police said police intervened and urged the workers to leave the highway, which they eventually did after being assured of talks with factory authorities.

Gazipur Industrial Police Sub-Inspector Faruk Hossain told The Daily Star that workers staged a demonstration last Thursday with similar demands. Following that protest, the authorities today issued a notice declaring the factory closed indefinitely under Section 13(1) of the Bangladesh Labour Act, which enforces a "no work, no pay" policy.

Upon arriving at the factory in the morning and finding the closure notice, the workers took position on the highway and blocked traffic. Police arrived at the scene and held discussions with the workers.

"We are struggling to survive with our families. Eid is approaching, yet we have no guarantee of our holiday payments and bonuses. The factory must reopen, and our dues must be paid immediately," a protesting worker said.

Workers claimed despite repeated negotiations, they had yet to receive any concrete solution from the authorities.

Attempts to reach factory officials for comment were unsuccessful.

Source:thedailystar.net

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https://www.thedailystar.net/news/bangladesh/news/gazipur-garment-workers-block-highway-2hrs-dues-eid-bonus-3854606

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North America

 

Tates return to Romania to 'prove their innocence'

March 22, 2025

British-American influencer Andrew Tate and his brother Tristan have returned from the US to Romania, where they face human trafficking and other charges.

Speaking to the press outside their house in Bucharest, the brothers said they were back because "innocent men don't run from anything."

"We've come here to prove our innocence because we deserve our day in court," Andrew Tate added.

The BBC understands the brothers will appear at a police station to register on Monday. They strongly deny the allegations against them.

Andrew Tate earlier told his 10.8 million followers on X that he had spent $185,000 (£143,000) on a private jet alongside his brother to "sign one single piece of paper in Romania."

The brothers, who are dual US-UK citizens, arrived in the US at the end of February after Romanian prosecutors lifted a two-year travel ban.

They told reporters they loved Romania and were "never going to leave" but would take holidays if and when they felt like it.

Andrew Tate, 38, is a self-proclaimed "misogynist" who claims to have made millions from social media despite being previously banned from platforms for his views.

He and Tristan, 36, are accused of human trafficking and forming an organised group to sexually exploit women in Romania. Andrew Tate is also accused of rape.

The brothers are also the subjects of a separate investigation in the UK into allegations of rape and human trafficking.

In the US they face a civil case from a woman who alleges the brothers coerced her into sex work, and then defamed her after she gave evidence to Romanian authorities. They deny the allegations against them.

Romanian prosecutors stressed the case against the brothers had not been dropped and that they remain "under judicial control" - meaning they have to regularly report to the authorities.

However, their exit sparked concerns that prosecutors felt political pressure from US President Donald Trump's administration. The US president said he knew nothing about the Tate brothers being released from Romania.

When asked about concerns surrounding US influence, the brothers rejected these claims.

"There's no American pressure, there's just the rule of law," the eldest brother told reporters.

The Tates have a large US following and are popular figures among some elements of the American right.

Earlier in February, some of Andrew Tate's alleged victims said they were "extremely concerned" by reports that US officials had asked for his travel restrictions to be relaxed.

Andrew Tate was put under house arrest in Romania in August 2024 when prosecutors launched a second criminal investigation against him and his brother Tristan, as well as four other suspects. They all deny wrongdoing.

Separately, the brothers are wanted in the UK to face allegations of sexual assault, which they also deny.

The brothers have also been accused of tax evasion in the UK. A British court ruled in December 2024 that police could seize more than £2m ($2.6m) from them for failing to pay tax on £21m in revenue from their online businesses.

Andrew Tate said the ruling was "not justice" and called it a "co-ordinated attack".

Source:bbc.com

Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story

https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cvgw0w7147vo

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CAIR Calls Trump Admin’s Elimination of DHS Civil Rights, Ombudsman Offices ‘Dangerous Erosion of Critical Accountability’

March 21, 2025

The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) today condemned the Trump administration’s closure of critical oversight offices within the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), including the Office for Civil Rights and Civil Liberties (CRCL), the Office of the Citizenship and Immigration Services Ombudsman, and the Office of the Immigration Detention Ombudsman as “a dangerous erosion of critical accountability mechanisms intended to safeguard civil and constitutional rights.”

CAIR, the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, notes that these offices were already significantly understaffed and played an essential role in training and oversight to ensure that DHS agencies—including Customs and Border Protection (CBP), Transportation Security Administration (TSA), Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), and others—respected constitutional rights and civil liberties of all Americans and residents.

In a statement, CAIR Government Affairs Director Robert S. McCaw said:

“The closure of DHS’s Office for Civil Rights and Civil Liberties and related ombudsman offices represents a dangerous erosion of critical accountability mechanisms intended to safeguard civil and constitutional rights.

“These offices were among the few accessible avenues for American Muslims to file complaints when their rights were violated by federal law enforcement or during immigration proceedings, border crossings, and airport security screenings.

“Eliminating these oversight offices exacerbates the dangers posed by the Trump administration’s increasingly aggressive domestic policies targeting Muslim and Arab community members, including the recent extrajudicial arrests and deportations targeting students and activists protesting Israel’s genocide in Gaza. 

“Without CRCL and the ombudsman offices, Americans and residents facing abuse by federal authorities will be left without crucial protections. By dismantling vital safeguards and eliminating channels for public accountability, the Trump administration makes our nation less safe and less free.

“CAIR urges Republicans and Democrats in Congress to work together to intervene immediately with the Trump administration to reverse these dangerous actions and restore essential oversight functions to protect the constitutional rights of all who live in the United States.”

Yesterday, U.S. Senators Gary Peters (D-MI), Ranking Member of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, and Dick Durbin, Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, sent a letter to Secretary Kristi Noem warning such cuts violate federal law and significantly undermine DHS’s ability to safeguard civil liberties and conduct critical national security missions effectively.

CAIR remains committed to advocating for the restoration of these critical offices and calls on lawmakers, civil society, and communities nationwide to demand accountability and transparency from the Trump administration.

CAIR’s mission is to protect civil rights, enhance understanding of Islam, promote justice, and empower American Muslims.      

La misión de CAIR es proteger las libertades civiles, mejorar la comprensión del Islam, promover la justicia, y empoderar a los musulmanes en los Estados Unidos.           

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Source:cair.com

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In Dearborn, a Ramadan iftar for Muslim foster youth to break fast in community

Nargis Rahman

March 21, 2025

DEARBORN HEIGHTS, Mich. (RNS and NPR) — Organizers and volunteers put the final touches to the iftar feast, adding plates of desserts, including knafeh and enormous Macadamia cookies, to an already heaping spread of pad thai, crab rangoons and beef stir fry. The sun is low, and any moment now, four dozen youth and families will fill the HYPE Athletics Center in Dearborn Heights, eager to break their Ramadan fast together.

On Friday (March 14), the Muslim Foster Care Association, an organization that supports Muslim foster children and families, hosted their third annual Ramadan iftar in an effort to help Muslim foster children feel connected to a broader Muslim community and to the rituals of the holy month.

“It’s a really great way to celebrate Ramadan together, especially for some of these kids that don’t necessarily have the opportunity to break fast with other Muslims. So this is our way of joining in community, and giving them that experience,” said Shereen Abunada, MFCA director of operations, who has been working with the group for six years.

Many Muslim children in non-Muslim foster care homes say Ramadan — when Muslims fast from food and water while the sun is up — can be a lonely experience with many challenges.

Salifu Mahmoud moved to the U.S. from Ghana three years ago. Now 18, he has moved into independent housing but said that in previous years he had a hard time observing Ramadan in non-Muslim foster homes.

“I was living with this lady, like she doesn’t know nothing about Islam… She doesn’t know nothing about Ramadan. Even (when) I used to fast, (she would) be like, ‘Oh, you need to drink water. You need to stop fasting,’” he said. “No one is going to like remind you every time to pray.”

Mahmoud had to practice his religious obligations on his own, without his family, halal food or access to a mosque for the nightly Taraweeh prayers.

This year Mahmoud was invited to live with a Muslim family during Ramadan, where he’s been able to share in the pre-sunrise suhoor, the meal before the fast, and to break fast with the family for the evening iftar meal.

“Since I moved to America, this is my best Ramadan,” said Mahmoud, whose family still lives in Ghana. “They treat me like their kids, showing me love.”

Mona Musaid, the MFCA domestic foster care program coordinator, said the lack of Muslim foster homes can lead to children not having a space to nurture their faith.

“Sometimes they’re taken away from their faith, from their community,” she said. “A lot of times when the kids come into this system, depending on their age, they’re not even identified as Muslim, and they kind of get lost in the system eventually,” she said.

Najla Almayaly, who like Mahmoud now lives in independent housing, has also previously lived with non-Muslim foster families and agreed it was hard to navigate her faith alone at a time of year when Muslims generally observe religious practices with a community.

“It made me feel out of place, out of ordinary. It also just made everything weird and icky, like I didn’t want to be there, but it kind of made me not want to fast, because I feel like nobody around me is doing it,” said Almayaly, 19, who is from Dearborn Heights. She entered foster care at the age of 13, when her parents divorced. While in foster care, she has lived in five non-Muslim foster homes and two Muslim households, which she says is a lot more comfortable.

Almayaly hopes to see non-Muslim foster parents make more of an effort to learn about the Islamic faith and facilitate the faith of the foster child.

“If you do have a foster kid that’s Muslim, make them feel loved and let them know that they could be their ordinary selves, they don’t gotta act as if they’re one of you or, like you,” she said.

Jessica Sweet, who recruits foster parents for the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, said the state doesn’t have a way to track the religious background of children entering the system, but the agency knows anecdotally that many Muslim kids end up in non-Muslim homes.

In Michigan, home to about 240,000 Muslims, there are only about 10 Muslim foster parents for 250 Muslim foster youth.

Sweet says the state requires training for foster parents, such as the Grow training, which includes a section on diversity and inclusion. MDHHS works with the Muslim Foster Care Association to train their staff to understand the needs of Muslim children.

“They’ve been willing to provide trainings and support mentorship to specific families if they do take a placement and maybe aren’t familiar with Muslim cultural practices,” Sweet said. “It is really important that we are making sure we’re providing services in the most culturally competent way possible if a family needs extra support.”

Started in 2016 by foster parents and friends Sameena Zahoor, a physician, and Ranya Shbeib, a lifelong educator, the Muslim Foster Care Association offers a number of services to help bridge the divide between non-Muslim foster parents and Muslim foster children, including mentorship and trainings, a halal meat program and, this year, 215 Ramadan gift baskets for kids in foster care that included dates, a Ramadan mug and spoon, halal candies and $100 Target gift cards for Eid.

Part of MFCA’s work involves strengthening collaborations locally by engaging with the statewide Foster, Adoption, and Kinship (FAK) Council and Faith Communities on Foster Care (FCC) to advocate for and support Muslim kids in foster care, while educating others about their needs — including educating Muslims about the need for more Muslim foster families.

“If a family took placement of a child who was Muslim and they’re not Muslim themselves, they really should be making connections with faith leaders in their community from the Muslim faith so that that child can have a mentor within that congregation or religious institution to make sure that we are providing that youth with the opportunity to practice their faith in a way that makes sense for them and their family,” Sweet said.

In 2021, the Muslim Foster Care Association learned that 200 unaccompanied Afghan minors needed immediate placement. Shbeib said they assembled Dari and Pashto-speaking volunteers and religious leaders to meet the Afghan children’s cultural and spiritual needs.

“The Afghan crisis highlights the urgency and importance of our work,” Shbeib said.

Recently, Abunada says, there has been an influx of even more Muslim youth to the state’s foster care system.

Before President Donald Trump took office in January, groups who resettle refugees worked to bring refugees to the United States as soon as possible.

“They expedited a lot of travel of refugee Muslim foster youth from West African countries. So we’ve had an influx of about 50 to 70 youth that have just recently arrived in the past couple months,” she said.

Abunada says with the changing immigration policies under the Trump administration, unaccompanied refugees who are children feel especially vulnerable right now.

“It will be a ripple effect. And we hope it doesn’t effect the kids. We’re all doing the best we can to protect the kids. But at the end of the day, it’s, it’ll definitely be, an effect.”

She said it’s likely that many who may have been hoping for their families to join them here in the U.S. will end up returning to their home countries.

“If they were trying to reunify with their families, or bring their families over here, that has completely stopped. So for a lot of them, that was their goal, and they end up just going back to their home countries,” Abunada said.

But for now, the association wants to give youth a place to gather with a community away from home, and a space to break fast together.

At the end of the iftar, volunteers pass out to-go boxes for people to take home food from the iftar. A volunteer hands a foster youth a package of goodies in a new book bag, hoping to offer another touchstone of belonging for the remaining days of Ramadan.

Source:religionnews.com

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https://religionnews.com/2025/03/21/in-dearborn-a-ramadan-iftar-connects-muslim-foster-youth-with-faith-community/

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Alleged shooter ‘knew targets were Muslim’, court told

ByRex Martinich

March 21, 2025

A father has heard police evidence for the first time after his 20-year-old son was shot and wounded in the street while wearing traditional Muslim clothing.

Shibly Mustapha said he attended Brisbane Magistrates Court on Friday hoping to see the man accused of shooting his son in the back.

Brooklyn Te-Hake Henare Ruatara, 23, of Kingston, appeared via videolink from custody to apply for bail on three counts of acts intended to cause grievous bodily harm and two counts of unlawful use of a motor vehicle.

The shooting is alleged to have occurred at Underwood, south of Brisbane, just after midnight on Sunday.

Police prosecutor Thomas Melo said Ruatara’s fingerprint was found in a stolen utility vehicle that was seen by witnesses and CCTV at the scene.

“A Toyota Hilux sped past the victim and they heard loud noises consistent with gunshots,” Melo said.

“They observed a small black handgun protruding from the window with three loud bangs and flashes.”

Police in court documents alleged Ruatara shot Mustapha’s son, caused another person to suffer a minor injury and attempted to shoot a third person.

Melo said an undercover law enforcement participant had been placed in Ruatara’s cell when he was arrested.

“He asked [Ruatara] what gun he used in the offence. [Ruatara] stated ‘a .22 [calibre] firearm’,” Melo said.

“He stated he is Mongrel Mob [New Zealand-based gang] affiliated.

“He stated he knew the victims were Muslim as they were wearing dresses and he shot at the victims where he only hit him on the shoulder and the victims were still standing when he drove away.”

Melo told Magistrate Louise Shephard he was not alleging the offence was a hate crime at this stage.

Mustapha said outside court that police needed to find the motive.

“They must leave no stone unturned because there have been incidents of Islamophobia in the past,” he said.

Mustapha said his son was “doing well” and recovering in hospital after surgery to remove a bullet from his back.

“We are assured he is going to make a full recovery,” he said.

Ruatara’s solicitor Steven Erickson told Shephard his client wished to remain on bail and support his family while he sought treatment for autism, ADHD and bipolar disorder.

Shephard refused bail as Ruatara had been on bail for armed robbery and vehicle theft at the time and was accused of removing his GPS tracking ankle bracelet an hour before the alleged shooting.

“These are terribly concerning allegations against you. My view is there is a certain strength to the circumstantial case that is alleged.”

Mustapha said overall he was happy with Friday’s outcome.

“Bail wasn’t granted ... a massive relief, just instant relief,” he said.

Mustapha said his family had received much support from the Muslim community and from people of other faiths.

“There are people who are just concerned that this should not be happening in our Australian community,” he said.

The matter was adjourned to May 20 at Holland Park Magistrates Court.

Source:brisbanetimes.com.au

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https://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/national/queensland/alleged-shooter-knew-targets-were-muslim-court-told-20250321-p5lllb.html

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Heavyweight boxing legend George Foreman dies aged 76, says family

March 22, 2025

Boxing heavyweight legend George Foreman has died aged 76, according to his family.

Known as Big George in the ring, the American built one of the most remarkable and enduring careers in the sport, winning Olympic gold in 1968 and claiming the world heavyweight title twice, 21 years apart - the second making him the oldest champion in history aged 45.

He lost his first title to Muhammad Ali in their famous Rumble in the Jungle fight in 1974. But Foreman's professional boxing career boasted an astonishing total of 76 wins including 68 knockouts, almost double that of Ali.

He retired from the sport in 1997 but not before he agreed to put his name to a best-selling grill - a decision that went on to bring him fortunes that dwarfed his boxing earnings.

His family said in a post on Instagram on Friday night: "Our hearts are broken.

"A devout preacher, a devoted husband, a loving father, and a proud grand and great grandfather, he lived a life marked by unwavering faith, humility, and purpose."

The statement added: "A humanitarian, an Olympian, and two time heavyweight champion of the world, He was deeply respected - a force for good, a man of discipline, conviction, and a protector of his legacy, fighting tirelessly to preserve his good name - for his family."

Foreman was born in Marshall, Texas, on 10 January 1949, and raised along with six siblings by a single mother in the segregated American South.

He dropped out of school and turned to street robberies before eventually finding his outlet in the ring.

Foreman won the heavyweight gold medal at the 1968 Olympics in Mexico City, aged 19, before turning pro and winning 37 consecutive matches. He lost only five bouts over his career.

He beat previously undefeated reigning champion Joe Frazier in Kingston, Jamaica, in 1973 knocking him down six times in the first two rounds.

His 1974 Rumble in the Jungle against Ali in Kinshasa, Zaire, now the Democratic Republic of the Congo, remains one of the most famous boxing matches ever.

Ali, the older man, was the underdog after he was stripped of his crown seven years earlier for refusing to be drafted into the Vietnam War.

Foreman reflected on the legendary fight 50 years later in an October interview with BBC World Service Newshour, explaining that everyone thought he was going to decimate Ali.

"Oh, he's not going to last one round," the boxer said experts were predicting at the time.

Foreman told the BBC he typically would get "real nervous" and have "butterflies" before any boxing match, but that night - it was the "most comfortable" he had felt.

But the wily Ali used a tactic that later became known as "rope-a-dope", which wore out Foreman, causing him to throw out hundreds of punches before Ali unloaded on him in the eighth round and scored a knockout.

After a second professional loss, Foreman retired in 1977 and became an ordained minister at the Church of the Lord Jesus Christ in Texas, which he founded and built.

He told the BBC his defeat to Ali became the "best thing that ever happened to me" as it ultimately led him to "get my message out" through preaching.

He recalled that his preaching started small, on street corners and with friends, then grew.

"We began meeting informally at various homes in Houston, and before long, the crowds became too large for most houses to accommodate," Foreman said on his website.

"Eventually, we bought a piece of land and an old, dilapidated building on the north-east side of Houston."

Foreman came out of retirement in 1987 to raise money for a youth centre he founded. He won 24 matches before losing to Evander Holyfield after 12 rounds in 1991.

In 1994, Foreman knocked out undefeated Michael Moorer to become the oldest ever heavyweight champion at age 45.

He became ad pitchman for his George Foreman Grill, which millions have purchased since it hit the market in 1994, thanks in part to his memorable catchphrase, the "Lean Mean Grilling Machine".

Foreman was married five times. He has a dozen children, including five sons who are all named George.

He explained on his website that he named them after himself so they "they would always have something in common".

"I say to them, 'If one of us goes up, then we all go up together," he explained. "And if one goes down, we all go down together!'"

Source:bbc.com

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https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/ckg8ez8201yo

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As US measles cases continue to rise, so do vaccinations

March 22, 2025

The number of measles cases in west Texas and New Mexico is rising, new data shows - even as officials work to contain an outbreak that sprang up two months ago.

There have been more measles cases in the US during the first three months of 2025, than in all of 2024, according the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

As of Friday, there are 309 cases in Texas and one measles-related death in the state. In New Mexico, cases have risen to 42, with one measles-related death.

While there are more cases of the virus, there is some good news: More people are getting the measles, mumps and rubella vaccination this year than last year.

According to the CDC, a federal public health agency, the last time measles numbers were this high in the US was 2019 when the annual total was 1,274. But the number of cases each year from 2020 through 2023 were all lower than the number of cases in the first three months of 2025.

The MMR vaccine is the most effective way to fight off the dangerous virus, which can lead to pneumonia, brain swelling and death. The jabs are 97% effective and also immunise against mumps and rubella.

Since the outbreak began, more people are reportedly getting the vaccine.

Between 1 February and 18 March last year, the New Mexico Department of Health registered 6,500 measles vaccines, the Associated Press reported. In the same time period this year, more than 11,600 measles vaccines were administered in the state.

Between 1 January and 16 March, Texas gave at least 173, 000 measles doses compared to last year's 158,000 in the same time period, state health department data shows.

Besides the outbreak spreading in Texas and New Mexico, measles cases were reported in other states and across Canada, as well.

So far this year in Canada there have been 224 measles cases, 173 confirmed and 51 probable, the government said.

But the epicentre remains in western Texas and neighbouring New Mexico, where two unvaccinated people have died from the virus this year.

While the disease was declared eliminated 25 years ago, the US still sees outbreaks, which are defined as three or more related cases.

The two deaths were jarring to many in a country that, before last week, had not recorded a measles death since 2015. The 2015 death was the first attributed to virus in the US since 2003.

In mid-April, CDC officials are expected to discuss the growing outbreak at a public meeting of its independent vaccine advisory panel.

Source:bbc.com

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https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c984vjl0gp2o

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US to import millions of eggs from Turkey and South Korea to ease prices

March 22, 2025

The Trump administration is planning to import eggs from Turkey and South Korea and is in talks with other countries in hopes of easing all-time high prices for the American consumer, officials confirmed.

"We are talking in the hundreds of millions of eggs for the short term," Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins told reporters at the White House.

It follows the administration's announcement of a $1bn (£792m) plan to combat a raging bird flu epidemic that has forced US farmers to cull tens of millions of chickens.

Despite President Trump's campaign promise to reduce prices, the cost of eggs has surged more than 65% over the past year, and it is projected to rise by 41% in 2025.

Rollins said her department was also in talks with other countries to secure new supplies, but did not specify which regions.

"When our chicken populations are repopulated and we've got a full egg laying industry going again, hopefully in a couple of months, we then shift back to our internal egg layers and moving those eggs out onto the shelf, " she said.

Polish and Lithuanian poultry associations said on Friday they had also been approached by US embassies regarding possible egg exports, the AFP reported.

"Back in February, the American embassy in Warsaw asked our organisation whether Poland would be interested in exporting eggs to the US market," Katarzyna Gawronska, director of the National Chamber of Poultry and Feed Producers, told the news agency.

In February, the US Department of Agriculture unveiled a $1bn, five-point plan to tackle the price of eggs, with a budget of $500m for biosecurity measures, roughly $100m for vaccine research and development, and $400m for farmer financial relief programs.

The Trump administration said it will provide commercial egg farms with best practices and consulting services for free, and pay up to 75% of the costs to address vulnerabilities to help prevent the spread of bird flu.

"Our plan was to invest a significant amount of money to do audits across the country to have USDA help these egg laying companies to secure their barns," Rollins said. "...and since we began doing that most recently, we've seen a significant decline in the bird flu."

Though the avian flu, or H5N1, has circulated among American poultry flocks for years, an outbreak starting in 2022 has wreaked havoc on farms, killing more than 156 million birds and sending egg prices skyrocketing.

Egg prices became a rallying point for Trump in last year's presidential run as he sought to capitalise on voters' frustrations with the rising cost of essential items.

During his address to the US Congress earlier this month, he blamed the soaring egg prices on his predecessor Joe Biden.

"Joe Biden especially let the price of eggs get out of control - and we are working hard to get it back down," he added.

Egg prices rose as the Biden administration directed millions of egg-laying birds to be culled last year amid a bird flu outbreak, though prices have continued rising during the early stages of Trump's second presidency.

Source:bbc.com

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https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c743g135vj9o

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Judge in deportations case says government lawyers 'disrespectful'

March 22, 2025

A US federal judge has reprimanded government lawyers as he questioned President Donald Trump's invocation of rarely used powers to deport hundreds of Venezuelan migrants.

Judge James Boasberg repeatedly clashed with justice department attorney Drew Ensign during a court hearing in Washington DC, saying he was not used to such "intemperate, disrespectful language" in government filings.

Trump last Saturday deported 238 Venezuelan alleged gang members to a mega-prison in El Salvador after invoking the 1798 Alien Enemies Act, last used during World War Two.

Speaking in the Oval Office earlier on Friday, the Republican president insisted his administration was getting "bad people out of our country", and renewed his attacks on Judge Boasberg, describing him as a "radical left lunatic".

The Trump administration maintains the men were "carefully vetted" and verified as gang members before being flown to El Salvador.

Some of their family members, however, have disputed that allegation, and US officials have acknowledged "many" of the men have no US criminal record. Venezuela's interior ministry has also disputed that the men had links to the Tren de Aragua gang.

At Friday's hearing, Judge Boasberg said he agreed that the US president had "wide latitude" to enforce immigration law.

But he expressed reservations that the deported migrants had no legal remedy to contest whether they were gang members or not.

"The policy ramifications of this are incredibly troublesome and problematic and concerning," Judge Boasberg said.

Last Saturday, he issued a verbal order to the government to turn around the deportation flights, but the White House said it was too late as the planes were already in international airspace.

The timing of the flights was a contentious issue in court on Friday.

"Did you not understand that when I said do that immediately, I meant it?" Judge Boasberg told Mr Ensign.

He said the Trump administration would be held accountable if they breached his court order.

"The government's not being terribly co-operative at this point, but I will get to the bottom of whether they violated my word," he said.

The judge could hold specific Trump officials in contempt of court for defying his ruling, although the president himself has broad immunity from any legal repercussions for official acts while in office.

Outside the White House on Friday, a journalist asked Trump about the signing of last week's presidential proclamation invoking the Alien Enemies Act.

"I don't know when it was signed because I didn't sign it," he said.

The White House later told the BBC that Trump did personally sign the executive order. Their emailed statement said the president was talking about the 1798 law when he said he did not sign it.

The deportations case has raised constitutional questions given that US government agencies are generally expected to comply with a federal judge's ruling.

At another hearing on Thursday, Judge Boasberg dismissed a government court filing on the migrant deportation flights as "woefully insufficient".

Trump has called for the judge to be impeached, and accused him of trying to usurp the presidency.

Earlier this week Supreme Court Chief Justice John Roberts issued a rare admonishment, without naming Trump, saying impeachment was "not an appropriate response".

The government has appealed against Judge Boasberg's temporary restraining order. A hearing is due at the city's court of appeals on Monday.

Source:bbc.com

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Africa

 

FG, national mosque partner to end open defecation by 2030

By Ameh Ochojila, Abuja

22 March 2025

The Federal Government, through the Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation has called on leaders of the Abuja National Mosque and other religious institutions, to support its efforts at eradicating open defecation in Nigeria by 2030.

During a courtesy visit to the mosque, Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utsev, emphasised the need for stronger collaboration between religious leaders and government agencies in promoting hygiene and sanitation.

He reiterated this administration’s commitment to public health, linking improved sanitation to food security and economic growth.

Utsev noted that the campaign against open defecation, first launched in 2019, had been reinvigorated under the leadership of Vice President Kashim Shettima, who now chairs the steering committee. He reported progress, revealing that 142 local councils had been declared open defecation-free, with Jigawa State being the only state to fully meet the target.

Recognising the influence of religious leaders in shaping public behaviour, Utsev urged Imams and clerics to integrate sanitation messages into their teachings.

“Through sermons, public teachings, and community engagement, mosques can serve as powerful platforms to promote hygiene and sanitation practices across the country,” he stated.

Beyond places of worship, the minister encouraged individuals to take personal responsibility for sanitation in their homes and workplaces to drive lasting behavioral change.

He commended the Murshid, Imams, and staff of the National Mosque, as well as the media and other stakeholders, for their contributions to the campaign.

Expressing confidence in Nigeria’s ability to achieve an open defecation-free status by 2030, he called for unity and commitment to the cause.

Speaking on behalf of the mosque, Prof. Mohammed Kabir Adam assured the government of the mosque’s readiness to promote proper sanitation and hygiene. Representing the Murshid of the Abuja National Mosque, Prof. Shehu Galadanchi, Adam highlighted the mosque’s sanitation facilities, which cater to between 5,000 and 6,000 worshippers daily.

He explained that the mosque provides toilet and ablution facilities capable of accommodating 300 people simultaneously, along with designated spaces for funeral rites to ensure proper cleansing and preparation of the deceased before burial.

Adam emphasised that proper sanitation aligns with Islamic teachings, noting that every household is religiously obligated to have a toilet while open defecation is strongly discouraged. He attributed the persistence of the practice to cultural influences rather than religious beliefs.

“The National Mosque will continue to promote this message, not only within this mosque but across other mosques in Nigeria. We will encourage Imams nationwide to incorporate this campaign into their sermons and community engagements,” he affirmed.

He described the visit as a step toward greater collaboration between religious institutions and public health initiatives, bridging a gap that secularism had previously widened.

“This campaign is a shared responsibility, and we are committed to playing our part in ensuring Nigeria becomes open defecation-free by 2030,” Adam stated, assuring the minister of the National Mosque’s full support for the initiatives.

Source:guardian.ng

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https://guardian.ng/news/nigeria/metro/fg-national-mosque-partner-to-end-open-defecation-by-2030/

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Kudos, knocks over Seyi Tinubu’s Ramadan outreach

22nd March 2025

By Imoleayo OyedejiSome northern groups have expressed divergent views on the recent Ramadan outreach by Seyi Tinubu, son of President Bola Tinubu.

While some praised Seyi’s efforts in providing palliatives to the northerners, some others dismissed his efforts, describing them as a political stunt.

As part of his goodwill outreach for the holy month, the president’s son recently visited several states in northern Nigeria, including Niger, Kaduna, Kano, Yobe, Bauchi, and Sokoto.

Saturday PUNCH gathered that during the outreach, Seyi engaged with youths, distributed food packages for the Iftar (breaking of fast) period and met with several influential northern leaders and politicians.

In Niger State, Seyi met with former Head of State, Abdulsalami Abubakar and also held discussions with immediate past President Muhammadu Buhari in Kaduna and Governor Uba Sani.

He also met with Kano State Governor, Abba Yusuf, religious and traditional leaders, including prominent Islamic cleric, Sheikh Ahmad Gumi and the Emir of Zazzau, Ahmad Nuhu Bamalli, according to reports.

However, Seyi’s outreach sparked diverse reactions from prominent youths and groups in the northern region.

Speaking with Saturday PUNCH, the Coalition of Northern Groups condemned Seyi’s outreach, describing it as a reflection of the poverty ravaging northern Nigeria and the country as a whole.

The CNG National Coordinator, Jamilu Charanchi, expressed displeasure that governance had been reduced to mere food distribution, adding that government at all levels had subjected citizens to severe hardship.

He said, “It is very unfortunate that the government has subjected its citizens to severe hardship and poverty to the extent that they see a small portion of rice as a gesture or contribution towards the development of a nation.

“It is also very unfortunate that poverty has ravaged the northern parts of the country to the extent that the people therein are not thinking of anything other than a way to feed themselves and their families.

“It is also very unfortunate that the son of a president will be moving from state to state, sharing food with people in nylon. That shows how poor the people are and how deeply poverty has ravaged the country.”

He said it was barbaric for anyone to be thinking of sharing food with the citizens instead of talking about Artificial Intelligence, developmental projects, economic welfare, and the security situation of the country.

“The economy is very bad. The inflation rate is skyrocketing. The security system is very bad. Farming and cattle rearing are becoming history in the northern parts of the country. These are the issues that the government is supposed to focus on so that a man can feed himself and his family instead of waiting for the president’s son to distribute food, he added.”

Similarly, the Northern Comrades Movement of Nigeria said Seyi’s action didn’t address the root causes of the prevailing hardship in the country.

In an interview with Saturday PUNCH, the Secretary-General of NCMN, Ahmed Ashir, questioned the motives behind the president’s son’s outreach, suggesting that it was merely an attempt to seek political favor.

“What the president’s son did is not commendable, according to us northerners. There is a proverb that says, ‘Charity begins at home.’ There are a lot of people in some parts of southern Nigeria who are in a very serious situation. They experience more hunger than some parts of the North.

“Besides, when you look at the amount of resources or food that Seyi Tinubu recently shared in the North, you will see that it was meagre and not enough. It was something he used to seek political favour ahead of the 2027 election.

But the current economic hardship is caused by his father. So, there is nothing Seyi Tinubu can do to favor his father come 2027. We northerners do not appreciate the recent move and want the president to address the root causes of the prevailing poverty and hardship plaguing people in the North.”

However, the Arewa Youths Consultative Forum backed Seyi’s move, noting that not many governors and prominent politicians in the region made similar efforts to assist the people during Ramadan.

“No matter how small the distribution was and no matter what anybody thinks about it, the president’s son, at least, made an effort by coming over and doing his part with Muslims in other parts of the country,” the AYCF President, Yerima Shettima told Saturday PUNCH.

He added, “How many northern leaders have initiated that kind of programme? How many of them are even well-to-do and in government? Only a few governors even do that. But Seyi did it, and he tried. I am not his spokesman, but he has tried. There is nothing to criticize him for. He has done what he did rightly, and I commend him.”

The Northern Youth Council of Nigeria also hailed Seyi Tinubu’s recent engagement.

In an interview with Saturday PUNCH, the NYCN National President, Isa Abubakar, criticised those condemning the outreach, describing them as lacking foresight and critical thinking.

He said, “For the youths condemning Seyi Tinubu’s Ramadan outreach, I think it is very uncalled for. People don’t celebrate good things, and that is the problem.

Personally, I know how Seyi Tinubu has been positively affecting the lives of people. He has been assisting young people in getting appointments in his father’s cabinet. He has made young people ministers in his father’s cabinet. And he keeps reaching out to others financially and otherwise.

“Don’t we have families that are richer than Tinubu in the North? What have their children done to impact the lives of the masses or the downtrodden? Seyi summoned the courage and came out boldly to help, and someone is complaining.”

Source:punchng.com

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https://punchng.com/kudos-knocks-over-seyi-tinubus-ramadan-outreach/

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FG partners national mosque to end open defecation in Nigeria

MARCH 21, 2025

By Stella Odueme

The Federal Government, through the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation, has made a passionate appeal to the leaders of the Abuja National Mosque and other mosques nationwide to support its unwavering commitment and efforts to end open defecation in Nigeria by 2030.

The government emphasized that eliminating open defecation will significantly reduce the occurrence of cholera, diarrhea, and other contagious diseases in the country.

The Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Engr. Prof. Joseph Terlumun Utsev, made the appeal during an advocacy visit to the Murshid of the Abuja National Mosque, Prof. Shehu Ahmad Saeed Galadanci, on Thursday in Abuja.

The Minister was accompanied by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry Mr. Richard Pheelangwah and other senior management staff.

Prof. Utsev highlighted the grave socio-economic and health risks posed by open defecation, emphasizing its impact on public health, environmental sustainability, and national development.

He noted that these concerns led to the launch of the “Clean Nigeria: Use the Toilet” campaign in August 2019, a flagship initiative aimed at achieving an open-defecation-free (ODF) Nigeria and reaffirmed that the campaign remains a top national priority under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.

Regarding the progress made so far, the Minister stated that 142 Local Government Areas (LGAs) across the country have successfully attained ODF status, with Jigawa State standing out as the only state to have completely eradicated open defecation. However, he stressed that sustained efforts and stronger partnerships are required to ensure that all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) achieve ODF status by 2030.

Recognizing the influential role of religious institutions in shaping societal behaviors, Prof. Utsev urged the National Mosque leadership to take a leading role in this advocacy.

He emphasized the importance of providing adequate toilet and sanitation facilities in all mosques nationwide and encouraged religious leaders to use their platforms—sermons, teachings, and community engagements—to educate worshippers on proper sanitation practices.

The Minister underscored Federal government’s commitment to working closely with religious institutions, traditional rulers, and community influencers to drive advocacy, promote behavioral change, reduce waterborne diseases, and improve public health.

In response, the Murshid of the Abuja National Mosque, Prof. Shehu Ahmad Saeed Galadanci, represented by Prof. Muhammad Kabir Adam, commended the Federal government’s initiative and emphasized the importance of cleanliness in Islam.

He pledged the mosque’s full support for Nigeria’s goal of ending open defecation by 2030 and assured the government of its commitment to raising awareness about proper sanitation.

He also highlighted the mosque’s facilities, which serve 5,000–6,000 worshippers daily, including toilets and ablution areas for 300 people at a time and also stressed that proper sanitation aligns with Islamic teachings.

He also stated that the mosque would initiate plans to promote the campaign nationwide by encouraging other Imams to incorporate the message of ending open defecation into their sermons and emphasized the importance of collaboration between religious institutions and government agencies, reaffirming their shared responsibility in making Nigeria open-defecation-free by 2030.

Source:authorityngr.com

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https://authorityngr.com/2025/03/21/fg-partners-national-mosque-to-end-open-defecation-in-nigeria/

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Kano mourns as famous industrialist Ahali dies at 108

21st March 2025

By  Gilbert Ekugbe

The Chairman of Mainasara & Sons Company, Alhaji Nasiru Ahali is dead.

According to sources close to the family, the late businessman died at a hospital in Kano on Thursday.

The famous industrialist died at the age of 108.

In a condolence message sent to the deceased family through the Director General Media and Publicity Government House, Kano, Sanusi Dawakin-Tofa, Kano State Governor, Abba Yusuf, described the death as “a colossal loss not only to his family but to the state, nation, and the entire Muslim ummah.”

He described the deceased as one of the founders of industries, saying he “shaped the state’s economy and played a crucial role in the growth of larger and small-scale industries in the state.”

His funeral prayer will take place at Nasiru Ahali Jummu’a Mosque, Kurnan Asabe on Friday.

Ahali was seen and respected as one of the pioneer indigenous industrialists in Kano. He strove to establish a formal and modern business setting.

Source:punchng.com

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https://punchng.com/kano-mourns-as-famous-industrialist-ahali-dies-at-108/#:~:text=The%20Chairman%20of%20Mainasara%20%26%20Sons,at%20the%20age%20of%20108.

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Police dole out food items to slain officers’ families in Jigawa

21st March 2025

By Salisu Kabuga

The Jigawa State Police Command has distributed food items to 35 families of police officers who lost their lives in the line of duty.

The Ramadan welfare package, which is a symbol of the command’s commitment to the welfare of the families of fallen officers, was held on Thursday at the Command’s headquarters in Dutse, the state capital.

Speaking during the distribution, the Commissioner of Police, Ahmad Abdullahi, said the gesture is part of the Command’s eight-year initiative to provide relief to widows and orphans during the holy month of Ramadan.

“We want to ensure that these families can break their fast joyfully, and we are committed to supporting them in any way we can,” he stated

The Commissioner of Police also prayed for the deceased officers, asking Allah to grant them eternal peace and to protect their surviving family members.

He praised the Command Management Team, Mosque Committee, Officers, and men of the command, as well as well-meaning citizens, for making this gesture possible.

“The Ramadan welfare package is not just a one-time gesture; it is part of the Command’s ongoing commitment to supporting the families of fallen officers.

“We are committed to supporting these families in any way we can,” he added.

Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, Hauwa Mamuda expressed heartfelt appreciation to the Almighty Allah, the Commissioner of Police, the Mosque Committee, and the entire Officers and Men of the Command for their generosity.

“The families of the fallen officers are grateful for the Command’s support. “We are thankful for the Commissioner of Police and the entire Command for their kindness and generosity,” she said.

On his part, while shedding more light on the development, the Jigawa State Police Spokesperson, SP Shi’isu Adam, revealed that “this act of kindness is particularly significant during the holy month of Ramadan, a period of kindness, mercy, and giving.

“The Command’s gesture is a reminder of the importance of showing compassion and empathy towards those in need.”

Adam further stressed that the command’s initiative is a reminder that even in difficult times, there are still people who care and are willing to show kindness and compassion.”

“The Ramadan welfare package, even though it looks small, is a significant gesture that can make a big difference in the lives of the families of fallen officers. It is a reminder that kindness and compassion can go a long way in bringing comfort and solace to those in need,” he concluded.

Source:punchng.com

Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story

https://punchng.com/police-dole-out-food-items-to-slain-officers-families-in-jigawa/#:~:text=The%20Jigawa%20State%20Police%20Command,in%20the%20line%20of%20duty.

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El-Rufai: Joining A Political Party Is Like Attending A Church Or Mosque – Adebayo Speaks On Leadership Position

21 March 2025

By Justina Otio

The Social Democratic Party (SDP) presidential candidate in the 2023 general elections, Adewole Adebayo, has stated that joining a political party does not necessarily make a person the leader of the party.

He opined that joining a political party can be compared to attending a public institution like a church or a mosque where people are free to come.

His statement comes a few days after the immediate past governor of Kaduna State, Nasir El-Rufai, joined the SDP after resigning from the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Adebayo on Thursday said while people were free to worship in a mosque or church, their attendance does not elevate them to the position of authority.

He said, “We cannot criticise people’s motives for coming. A political party is a public institution, like a church or a mosque.

“When somebody’s presence is marked in a mosque and wants to pray, you cannot say, where were you last night? Where have you been during your life? Let them pray.

“If you come to a church, you sit at the pew and you say you want to kneel and pray, the pastor cannot say, wait, I saw you at the nightclub last night. He has to allow you to pray.

“So, coming to the mosque to pray does not mean that you will be made the chief imam. Coming to the church to pray doesn’t mean you are going to be anointed as a bishop, but you are free to come because it’s a place that allows everyone to come.

He warned against petty fights, ego clashes, and distractions among party members, adding that such action may open doors for opponents to exploit.

Source:naijanews.com

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https://www.naijanews.com/2025/03/21/el-rufai-joining-a-political-party-is-like-attending-a-church-or-mosque-adebayo-speaks-on-leadership-position/

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Sudan’s military seizes republican palace in key battle against RSF

21 March 2025

Sudan’s military has recaptured the Republican Palace in Khartoum, marking a significant victory against the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF). Footage aired by Al-Arabiya on Friday showed soldiers inside the palace, which appeared partly in ruins. The army, led by Gen. Abdel-Fattah Burhan, has made steady advances in recent months.

Despite this win, the war continues, with the RSF still holding key territories in Sudan’s western Darfur region. The conflict, which began in 2023, has killed over 28,000 people and displaced millions, with famine worsening the crisis.

The Republican Palace, a historic seat of power during British rule, was a heavily guarded RSF stronghold. The military’s offensive this year has led to rising civilian casualties. Rights groups and the U.N. accuse the RSF and allied militias of targeting ethnic African communities, allegations both sides deny.

While symbolic, the palace’s capture does not mark the war’s end, as fighting persists across Sudan.

Source:africanews.com

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https://www.africanews.com/2025/03/21/sudans-military-seizes-republican-palace-in-key-battle-against-rsf/

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Natasha: A Senate Conundrum, The Thin Line Between Humour And Harassment

22 March 2025

By Justina Otio

The nation was in utter shock when the Senator representing Kogi Central, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan accused Senate President Godswill Akpabio of sexual harassment.

Two groups emerged, those who believed Akpoti-Uduaghan claims and others who insisted that until the embattled Senator provided substantial proof to back her allegations it was simply a ploy to assassinate the character of Akpabio.

The lack of notable solidarity following Akpoti-Uduaghan claims sheds a harsh light on the challenges women still face in Africa’s most populous country.

Tensions between Akpabio and Akpoti-Uduaghan became palpable when the senate president, during plenary, reprimanded his colleague, stating that the Senate “is not a nightclub where anybody can talk anyhow.”

Following this incident, a viral video had shown Akpoti-Uduaghan accusing Akpabio of changing her seat without informing her.

Things went uphill from there, with Uduaghan granting an interview on Arise TV in late February in which she accused Akpabio of sexual harassment.

She alleged that in one incident Akpabio had told her that a motion she was trying to advance could be put to the senate if she “took care” of him. In another, she said that on a tour of his house he had told her – while holding her hand “I’m going to create time for us to come spend quality moments here. You will enjoy it.”

However, the senate president strongly denied the allegations, insisting that he has never sexually harassed a woman.

Within days of Natasha’s comments, she was suspended for six months, a move that was allegedly justified by an earlier argument that erupted in the Senate chambers.

“Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended for gross misconduct and unruly behaviour and not as a result of the allegation of sexual harassment or assault,” a letter from the Senate’s majority leader said.

The Senate President’s wife Unoma Akpabio dismissed the allegations as defamatory, insisting that her husband is a disciplined and well-respected man whose jovial nature is often misinterpreted.

Also former Senate Minority Leader, Abiodun Olujimi, while speaking on the controversy in an Arise Television interview on Saturday, said, “I took over from Godswill Akpabio as Minority Leader, so I know him and his wife quite well. He (Akpabio) jokes a lot. He’s fond of making little fun out of everything.”

Current female senators dismissed Natasha’s claims on national TV, while one former senator said Akpoti-Uduaghan’s claims were “a sign of weakness” and that sexual harassment happened only in schools.

One thing has been established from these submissions, and that is the fact that the Senate President is a man who jokes a lot.

However, a critical consideration arises when the recipient of the joke does not appreciate the humour, raising important questions about respecting boundaries and avoiding unintended harm.

What happens when that person feels uncomfortable or insulted? Would it not be better to bridle your tongue when you are with those who might find your jokes too expensive?

Women hold just 17 seats in the House of Representatives, out of 360. The Senate is now down to three women out of 109 seats after Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension.

Sexually charged jokes have long been a pervasive issue, perpetuated by a culture that tolerates them.

Jokes that demean or insult women’s bodies are a harmful form of sexual harassment aimed at eroding their self-worth and confidence.

These jokes often serve as a vehicle for individuals to express sexist beliefs while avoiding accountability by dismissing those who take offence as “overly sensitive.”

The proliferation of such jokes creates a toxic culture where boundaries are repeatedly tested, potentially escalating to physical harassment. By normalizing these jokes, we enable a culture that undermines women’s autonomy and dignity.

When a person of power tells one of these jokes, it puts the person on the receiving end in a difficult position, speaks out against the harasser and potentially face negative consequences, or stay silent and allow the behaviour to continue? We know that either decision exacerbates what is already tremendously difficult to handle.

Speaking in an exclusive interview with Naija News, former lawmaker Babafemi Ojudu strongly condemned any form of sexual harassment in the National Assembly and expressed the need for a thorough investigation.

What are your thoughts on the sexual harassment allegation made by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan against Godswill Akpabio?

“Sexual harassment is a serious allegation, especially in a highly respected institution like the Senate. Such a claim should never be dismissed or politicized. It must be taken seriously and subjected to a thorough, impartial investigation—both judicial and administrative. In such an investigation, neither the accuser nor the accused should have any influence over the process, ensuring fairness and credibility.”

What is the process for investigating allegations of sexual harassment within the Senate, and how will this case be handled?

“The Senate Ethics Committee typically handles issues of misconduct. However, if there are concerns about its impartiality, a motion expressing a lack of confidence in the committee can be raised. This could lead to the formation of an ad hoc committee, which would be constituted by the Senate in a general sitting. In this case, because the Senate President is the accused, the Deputy Senate President would preside over the proceedings.”

“Additionally, the ad hoc committee could seek the assistance of law enforcement agencies like the DSS and the police to ensure a proper and independent investigation.”

What measures are in place to protect whistleblowers and ensure they are not retaliated against?

“Unfortunately, in this case, there appear to be no clear institutional protections for whistleblowers within the Senate. However, a transparent and fair investigative process can serve as a safeguard, ensuring that the accuser is not victimized for speaking up.

“To prevent retaliation, there is a need for stronger whistleblower protection laws that apply to all public institutions, including the Senate.”

How can the Senate and other institutions work to prevent sexual harassment and create a safer, more respectful environment for all members?

“The key is consistent enforcement of accountability. Each time an allegation of sexual harassment arises, it must be handled with the seriousness, fairness, and transparency it deserves. If perpetrators know they will be properly investigated and held accountable, it will deter future misconduct.

“Beyond enforcement, proactive policies—such as mandatory sexual harassment training, an independent complaints mechanism, and clear penalties—must be institutionalized to create a safe and respectful environment.”

What role do power dynamics play in cases of sexual harassment, particularly in institutions like the Senate?

“In a highly political environment like the Senate, power dynamics are unavoidable. Those in authority often wield significant influence over both the process and the outcome of allegations against them. This makes it difficult for victims to come forward and for justice to be served.

“However, a system of fairness and due process can mitigate these power imbalances. When investigations are independent, transparent, and free from political interference, justice becomes more attainable, regardless of who is accused.”

Source:naijanews.com

Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story

https://www.naijanews.com/2025/03/22/natasha-a-senate-conundrum-the-thin-line-between-humour-and-harassment/

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‘I’m Not Accepting Donations For₦500 Million Debt’ – Mr Macaroni

22 March 2025

By Rachel Okporu Fadoju

Nigerian skit maker cum Nollywood actor, Debo Adedayo, better known as Mr Macaroni, has clarified that he is not seeking financial assistance following the revelation of ₦500 million debt.

Naija News reports that Macaroni, in a lengthy post via his X handle on Thursday, March 20, 25, admitted that his financial recklessness and generosity negatively impacted his financial stability.

The movie star said he resorted to borrowing to settle pending commitments and fulfil specific responsibilities after losing all his savings.

The actor stated that 2024 marked a pivotal moment in his acting career, but it was also the most challenging year for him as he faced over half a billion naira in debt.

Mr Macaroni revealed that his frustration grew worse after he was betrayed by someone he considered a friend and sister.

He added that with the support of family and friends who stood by him during his trying times, he feels better than he had in the last three years.

Macaroni’s revelation prompted an outpour of support from colleagues and followers, who offered to support him.

However, in a chat with Punch, the skit maker said he only shared the experience for others to learn from and not because he needed help.

He said, “I’m not accepting any help or donations. I shared the story majorly because I wanted people to learn from my mistakes.”

Source:naijanews.com

Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story

https://www.naijanews.com/2025/03/22/im-not-accepting-donations-for-%e2%82%a6500-million-debt-mr-macaroni/

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