‘If Anyone Provokes Us, We Won’t Spare Them’: Rajnath Singh Warns Pakistan Over Terrorism

New Age Islam News Bureau

15 May 2026

Rajnath Singh

File photo

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·         ‘If anyone provokes us, we won’t spare them’: Rajnath Singh warns Pakistan over terrorism

·         Palestinians in Gaza mark anniversary of 1948 mass expulsion and say today’s catastrophe is worse

·         Malaysia backs dialogue, diplomacy to resolve West Asia conflicts at BRICS meeting in New Delhi

·         Bangladesh reaffirms commitment to peacekeeping, sustainable development

·         Saudi Arabia condemns Israel’s ‘repeated provocative practices’ at Al-Aqsa Mosque

·         Hartlepool mosque hits 40,000 milestone of free meals for the community since Covid

·         ‘Xi would also like to see the Hormuz Strait open’: Donald Trump on US-China talks

·         100 Days After His Assassination, Public Pressure Mounts to Reveal Killers of Saif al-Islam Gaddafi

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India

·         EAM Jaishankar holds talks with Iran Foreign Minister Araghchi on side-lines of BRICS

·         'Janta mandate gone for a toss': BJP claims new Kerala CM will be 'remote controlled' by IUML

·         'Congress new Muslim League’: BJP takes jibe as party names V D Satheesan as Kerala CM pick

·         NIA charges doctors in Red Fort blast case linked to AQIS terror conspiracy

·         'Clear why PM agreed to trade deal, halted Op Sindoor': Cong targets Modi over US plans to drop charges against Adani

·         Teacher among 2 held for aiding terrorists in J&K

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Mideast

·         Trump says he wants Iran uranium for optics

·         Gaza aid flotilla sets sail again after Israeli interceptions

·         Syrian foreign minister raises his country’s flag to officially reopen embassy in Morocco

·         Iraq parliament approves new government in confidence vote

·         US Central Command chief: Iran’s ability to threaten neighbours dramatically degraded

·         UN envoy announces deal to release more than 1,600 Yemen conflict detainees

·         Syria seizes 142,000 captagon pills bound for Jordan

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Southeast Asia

·         On national Youth Day, Anwar announces RM5m allocation for Youth Council

·         Sultan Nazrin honours teachers with special Friday sermon role across Perak mosques

·         Singapore Islamic council reprimands Starbucks for claiming ‘halal transition’ without application

·         Grab engineer Mohammad Hasif Afiq becomes first Malaysian in Apple’s global developer honours programme

·         Must pass SPM BM and History first: Anwar confirms UEC students can enter public universities

·         Jho Low pardon bid: Anwar says ‘we are not going that route’, leaves US decision to Washington

·         Malaysia condemns Israeli minister’s Al-Aqsa incursion

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South Asia

·         Bangladesh, US sign deal on energy cooperation

·         Ex-minister Mosharraf Hossain’s janaza held in Chattogram amid tight security

·         EU envoy meets opposition leader

·         Over 30 Afghanistan Companies Join Kazan Halal Exhibition

·         Over 500 Detained Afghan Migrants Return From Pakistan

·         UNAMA Voices Concern Over Detention of Three Afghan Journalists

·         EU Says UN Report Shows Afghans Facing Severe Humanitarian Challenges

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Arab World

·         Makkah environment office intensifies inspections to curb unauthorized animal slaughter ahead of Hajj

·         Riyadh Metro’s landmark Western Station opens for full operations

·         Mawhiba showcases Saudi experience at ISEF 2026 in Phoenix

·         Saudi Arabia floats Middle Eastern non-aggression pact with Iran: FT

·         Foreign ministers chair Saudi-Greek strategic partnership council meeting in Athens

·         Exhibition highlights Al-Shuaybah Islamic coin hoard

·         Riyadh University of Arts opens applications for first student intake

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Europe

·         Shocking moment masked thugs firebomb Muslim prayer room in Blackburn cafe

·         Ukrainian drones kill three in attack on apartments in Russia – governor

·         Muslim community centre given go-ahead for new gym and sports hall

·         Azerbaijan’s Minister of Culture unveiled new cultural heritage cooperation initiatives with ICESCO

·         Latvian PM resigns after row over stray Ukrainian drones

·         Pope Leo slams Europe’s military buildup as ‘betrayal’ of diplomacy

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North America

·         U.S. Sen. John Cornyn introduces BOOT Sharia Law Act to bar 'anti-American' immigrants

·         Sharia-Free America Hearing marked by attacks on Muslim advocacy groups

·         CAIR Md. Marks End of 2026 Md. Legislative Session With Reflections on Key Progress, Challenges

·         CAIR Commends House Democrats Who Countered Anti-Muslim Hate at ‘Sharia Hoax’ Hearing

·         US court suspends sanctions on UN expert on Palestinians

·         Trump brought top CEOs to Beijing but few big deals emerge

·         CIA chief delivers message from Trump to Cuba

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Africa

·         Mali's army carries out overnight strikes on rebel-held city of Kidal

·         Man fatally stabbed in mosque during prayers in Lamu county

·         Nobel winner Mukwege warns of predatory US deal for DR Congo

·         South Africa: Opposition parties pile pressure on Ramaphosa

·         ‘They Will Vote Me Out’ – Tinubu Speaks On Potentials Of Nigerian Youths

·         Why I Won’t Contest Senate Seat Despite Pressure – Zulum

Compiled by New Age Islam News Bureau

URL:  https://newageislam.com/islamic-world-news/rajnath-singh-warns-pakistan-over-terrorism/d/140038

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‘If anyone provokes us, we won’t spare them’: Rajnath Singh warns Pakistan over terrorism

14.05.26

Rajnath Singh

File photo

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Defence minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday warned Pakistan against terrorism and said India would strike back decisively if provoked again.

Addressing a public gathering at Nagaur's Merta town after unveiling a statue of Rajput ruler Rao Duda, Singh said Operation Sindoor had sent a strong message to Pakistan.

"Perhaps Pakistan will not dare to look at India with hostility again. But I want to say that if it does, what has not happened till now will happen," he said.

"From the beginning, our policy was not to provoke anyone. But if anyone provokes us, we do not spare them either," Singh said.

Referring to the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22 last year, he said the terrorists had fired at people based on their religion.

"Indian culture says there should be no division based on caste or religion. We believe in justice and humanity. But terrorists from Pakistan shot at people after asking their religion," he said.

"The entire country was angry. We gave such a strong reply that the enemy was stunned. We proved that India is no longer a country that silently suffers. If anyone attacks our citizens, we will enter their homes and respond. No border can stop us," Singh added.

India has adopted a "zero tolerance" policy against terrorism, the defence minister said, citing the surgical strikes in 2016 and Balakot airstrikes in 2019 as examples of India's changing response strategy.

Speaking at the event, Singh said politics should guide society towards the right path.

Politics in India had "lost its meaning and spirit" over the years, but the Narendra Modi-led government is working to restore it, he said, adding that the country's politics now is driven by values and is focused on both development and heritage.

On women's empowerment, the minister said the Centre is committed to the idea, and campaigns like "Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao" and stricter women's safety laws are indicative of this.

He reiterated the government's resolve for women's reservation in the legislature.

"We brought a Bill to provide 33 per cent reservation for women in Parliament and state legislatures. Unfortunately, the opposition did not allow it to pass. But we remain fully committed to this resolve," he said.

"There may be some delay, but we will fulfil this commitment. This Bill is not merely legislation, but a reflection of our collective willpower," he added.

Praising Rajasthan's contribution to the armed forces, the minister said youths from the state shared a deep connection with the military.

"Soldiers emerge from every household in Rajasthan. Just as our jawans protect the nation's borders, our government is also walking shoulder to shoulder with them through various welfare initiatives," he said.

Singh said Prime Minister Narendra Modi has repeatedly spoken about bringing in development but preserving heritage alongside.

"Remembering our great leaders, taking pride in them, and carrying their teachings to the new generation -- our government is working rapidly in this direction," he said.

Singh said the unveiling of Rao Duda's statue symbolised a larger commitment to honour the forgotten heroes from history.

"This unveiling is also a pledge that countless brave warriors like Rao Duda will be brought out from the pages of history and presented proudly before the people," he said, adding that the Rajput king had taught society that respect for women was not merely a slogan but "the soul of civilisation".

Chief minister Bhajanlal Sharma and Union minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat also addressed the programme.

Source: telegraphindia.com

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Palestinians in Gaza mark anniversary of 1948 mass expulsion and say today’s catastrophe is worse

May 15, 2026

Palestinian Zainab Abu Samaan combs her daughter’s hair inside their damaged house, at Shati (Beach) refugee camp in Gaza City, May 10, 2026. REUTERS/Dawoud Abu Alkas TPX IMAGES OF THE DAY

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DEIR AL-BALAH: Blink and you might miss the few stone walls that are all that’s left of the village that Yusuf Abu Hamam’s family was forced to flee when he was an infant in 1948.

The village, Al-Joura, was demolished by the Israeli military at the time. It has since vanished under neighborhoods of the southern Israeli city of Ashkelon and the grounds of a national park.

The neighborhood where Abu Hamam’s family ended up — and where he spent most of his life — now lies also largely in ruins. Buildings in the Shati Camp in the northern Gaza Strip have been razed and wrecked by Israeli bombardment and demolitions during the past 2½ years of war.

On Friday, Abu Hamam and millions of Palestinians mark the 78th anniversary of the Nakba, Arabic for “catastrophe,” referring to the mass expulsion and flight of some 750,000 Palestinians from what is now Israel during the 1948 war surrounding Israel’s creation. It’s the third commemoration of the Nakba since the war in Gaza began.

The 78-year-old Abu Hamam, one of a dwindling number of Nakba survivors, says the current war is an even greater catastrophe.

More than six months after an October ceasefire, he and the rest of Gaza’s more than 2 million people are now crammed into less than half of the 25-mile-long strip along the Mediterranean coast, surrounded by an Israeli-controlled zone encompassing the rest of the territory.

“There is no country left,” Abu Hamam said, speaking next to his home, which was heavily damaged by Israeli shelling earlier in the war. “A square kilometer and a half extending from the sea, this is what we are living in … It’s indescribable, unbearable.”

What was the Nakba?

For Palestinians, the Nakba meant the loss of most of their homeland. Some 80 percent of the Palestinians who lived in the area that became Israel were driven from their homes by forces of the nascent state before and during the war. The fighting began when Arab armies attacked following Israel’s establishment as a home for Jews in the wake of the Holocaust. Palestinians who remained behind hold Israeli citizenship.

After the war, Israel refused to allow Palestinian refugees to return to ensure a Jewish majority within its borders. Palestinians became a seemingly permanent refugee community that now numbers some 6 million, with most living in refugee camps in the Israeli-occupied West Bank, Lebanon, Syria, Jordan and Gaza.

Around 530 Palestinian villages in what became Israel were destroyed, according to the Palestinian Bureau of Statistics.

Abu Hamam’s birth village was one of them. Al-Joura was seized by the Israeli military as it advanced against Egyptian forces in November 1948. Soldiers were ordered to destroy every home in Al-Joura and neighboring villages to ensure their Palestinian populations couldn’t come back, according to military archives cited by Israeli historian Benny Morris.

Refugees swelled the population of the tiny patch of territory along the southern coast that became the Gaza Strip. They stayed in tent camps, run by a newly created UN agency for Palestinians, UNRWA, which provided aid and schooling. Those camps, like Abu Hamam’s Shati Camp, grew into dense urban neighborhoods over the decades, before many were flattened during the latest Gaza war by Israeli bombardment.

In Gaza, Palestinians live a new Nakba

The ancestors of Ne’man Abu Jarad and his wife, Majida, were already living in what would become the Gaza Strip in 1948. They both recall stories from their families about refugees streaming in by foot from areas further north, like the village Abu Hamam came from.

Though they avoided the original Nakba, there was no escaping from what Majida now calls “our Nakba.”

Their hometown has been wiped off the map. Over the past year, Israeli bulldozers and controlled detonations have razed nearly every building in the northern Gaza towns of Beit Lahiya and Beit Hanoun. A new Israeli military base stands about 700 meters (765 yards) from where the Abu Jarads’ house once stood, according to satellite photos.

Also gone is the southern Gaza city of Rafah, once home to a quarter million people, and other villages and neighborhoods located in the Israeli-held half of the Gaza Strip. The military says it is destroying positions used by Hamas and preparing the area for reconstruction. Satellite photos show nearly every structure reduced to rubble.

Over the last 31 months of war, the Abu Jarads and their six daughters have been displaced more than a dozen times as they fled Israeli bombardment and offensives. They currently live in a camp in the southern city of Khan Younis. Their tent offers little shelter from biting winter winds or summer heat, Majida said.

Their daughters have been out of school for over two years now.

“The Nakba of ‘48, I don’t think it can be compared to our Nakba,” Majida said. “In ‘48, they say people were displaced once and settled in one place, and they are still there until now. But our Nakba, honestly, is more severe because our displacement has happened multiple times. There is no stability.”

Around 90 percent of Gaza’s more than 2 million people have lost their homes, according to UN estimates, with most of them now sheltering in huge tent camps with rat infestations and pools of sewage. They are dependent on aid to survive.

Israel’s offensive has killed over 72,700 Palestinians, according to local health officials. It was triggered by Hamas’ Oct. 7, 2023, attack on southern Israel that killed some 1,200 people. Militants also abducted 251 hostages.

In the northern West Bank, tens of thousands of Palestinians are entering their 15th month of displacement, after the Israeli military ordered them out of their refugee camps as it launched an operation it said was targeting militant groups.

Since then, troops have demolished or heavily damaged at least 850 structures across the refugee camps of Nur Shams, Jenin and Tulkarem, according to an analysis of satellite imagery by Human Rights Watch released in December.

Saving what was lost, again and again

The 1948 Nakba also brought the loss of Palestinians’ history, as those fleeing struggled to keep hold of the documents and possessions tying them to their homes.

One of the largest archives of Palestinian documents dating back to the Nakba belongs to UNRWA.

UNRWA staff members, who fled their offices in Gaza after Israel ordered the north evacuated, had to leave behind the agency’s extensive archive.

The staff then launched a mission to rescue the most crucial documents — birth, death and marriage certificates and refugee registration cards, according to Juliette Touma, a former senior UNRWA official.

Without those documents, Palestinians could lose their rights and refugee status. Staffers crammed their personal suitcases full of papers and carried them through checkpoints and out of the territory, Touma said.

The current war has cost Palestinians in Gaza what little remained of their personal histories. Majida’s parents’ home in Beit Hanoun was destroyed, and with it family photos.

“There is nothing left,” she said.

Abu Hamam, too, says everything has been lost.

“When this war came, it devoured trees, stones and people,” he said. “Entire families were erased from the civil registry. Hundreds of families are still buried under the rubble.”

Source: arabnews.com

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Malaysia backs dialogue, diplomacy to resolve West Asia conflicts at BRICS meeting in New Delhi

15 May 2026

Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan (seen on screen) speaks at the BRICS Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in New Delhi, India on May 14, 2026. — Bernama pic

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NEW DELHI, May 15 — Malaysia has reiterated its position that all disputes in West Asia must be resolved through dialogue, diplomacy and respect for international law, says Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan.

In a Facebook post today, he said the position was conveyed during a meeting with Iranian Foreign Minister Dr Seyed Abbas Araghchi on the sidelines of the 2026 BRICS Partners Foreign Ministers’ Meeting here yesterday.

Mohamad said that during the meeting, he also obtained the latest updates on the conflict in West Asia, which continues to affect regional stability and international security.

At the meeting, Mohamad also held bilateral discussions with Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Eduardo Rodríguez Parrilla.

He said the discussions touched on the current geopolitical and economic situation in Cuba, as well as the latest developments in West Asia, which continue to draw international attention.

According to Mohamad, Parrilla also expressed appreciation for Malaysia’s support towards efforts to end the United States’ unilateral sanctions against Cuba.

“Malaysia and Cuba remain committed to further strengthening bilateral relations and cooperation on international platforms, including BRICS, NAM and the G-77,” he said.

Mohamad also paid a courtesy call on Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi at his office in Seeva Teerth here.

“Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed the delegates and shared his views on efforts to strengthen cooperation within the BRICS framework, particularly towards closer, more inclusive and mutually beneficial relations,” he said.

The 2026 BRICS Foreign Ministers’ Meeting brought together ministers and representatives from BRICS member states and partners to discuss global geopolitical developments, economic cooperation and issues involving countries of the Global South. — Bernama

Source: malaymail.com

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Bangladesh reaffirms commitment to peacekeeping, sustainable development

15 May 2026

Photo: Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Bangladesh

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Bangladesh has reaffirmed its strong commitment to democratic governance, sustainable development, peacekeeping, and multilateral cooperation.

State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam made the affirmation during a meeting with UN Assistant Secretary‑General Khaled Khiari in New York today.

She outlined the priorities of Bangladesh’s newly elected government, emphasising efforts to restore public trust, strengthen institutions, enhance transparency and accountability, improve public service delivery, and uphold human rights and the rule of law, according to a statement from the foreign ministry.

Shama Obaed highlighted government initiatives such as the “Family Card” and “Farmers Card” programmes, designed to address socio‑economic vulnerabilities of disadvantaged groups.

She also underscored Bangladesh’s role as one of the leading contributors to UN peacekeeping operations, stressing the importance of preserving peacekeeping mandates despite the UN’s ongoing liquidity crisis.

She called for greater participation of women and youth in post‑conflict settings.

On the Rohingya crisis, the state minister said repatriation of displaced Rohingyas to Myanmar remained the only viable long‑term solution and urged continued international support for their safe return.

UN Assistant Secretary‑General Khiari commended Bangladesh’s longstanding contribution to UN peacekeeping operations and its role in promoting women’s participation in peace and security initiatives.

Source: thedailystar.net

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Saudi Arabia condemns Israel’s ‘repeated provocative practices’ at Al-Aqsa Mosque

May 15, 2026

A drone view of Al-Aqsa compound. (Reuters)

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RIYADH: Saudi Arabia on Thursday condemned Israeli authorities for their “provocative” actions at Al-Aqsa Mosque in East Jerusalem.

The Foreign Ministry said the Kingdom denounced “repeated provocative practices carried out by officials of the Israeli occupation authorities against” the mosque, “most recently the storming of Al-Aqsa Mosque by an official from the Israeli occupation authorities, under the protection of occupation police, as well as another official raising the flag of the occupation authorities within the courtyards of Al-Aqsa Mosque.”

Earlier on Thursday, Itamar Ben-Gvir, Israel’s far-right minister of national security, stormed into courtyards at the mosque compound. It came as thousands of Jewish nationalists paraded through the streets of the walled city in celebration of Jerusalem Day, which commemorates Israel taking military control of the eastern part of the city during the 1967 war.

On Wednesday, Yitzhak Wasserlauf, the minister of the Negev, Galilee and national resilience, toured Al-Aqsa ahead of the nationalist event, which has become a show of force for Jewish activists and settler groups, and said Ben-Gvir was leading a “revolution” at the holy site. Both ministers belong to the far-right Otzma Yehudit (Jewish Power) party.

“The Kingdom reaffirms its categorical rejection of all actions that undermine the historical and legal status of Al-Quds (the Arabic name for Jerusalem) and its holy sites,” the Saudi ministry added in its statement, which was posted on social media platform X.

“The Kingdom stresses its call on the international community to put an end to such practices that violate international laws and norms, and to hold the Israeli occupation authorities accountable for their serious and ongoing violations against Islamic holy sites and innocent civilians in the State of Palestine.”

Source: arabnews.com

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Hartlepool mosque hits 40,000 milestone of free meals for the community since Covid

By Mark Payne

15 May 2026

A food project in Hartlepool started during Covid has now provided 40,000 meals for the community.

Every week volunteers at the Nasir Mosque make rice and vegetable meals and deliver them to people in need in the community.

The project began soon after the Covid lockdown in early 2020, but has continued ever since as people deal with cost-of-living pressures.

The team provide around 150 meals each and every week for St Aidan’s Church and The Annexe centre in Dyke House.

Tahir Selby, the Imam of Nasir Mosque said: “I am very pleased that we have been able to continue making food for those in need over many years and to have reached this landmark of 40,000 meals, along with other donations.

“Besides cooking food, the ladies of the mosque regularly collect food like pasta and tins which we also give to the church.

“I am always amazed to see all the food that they provide each week and to be able to make a small contribution”

Mr Selby said the need for the project remains.

He added: “Whilst the initiative began soon after Covid and has continued every week since, I was hoping that times would have got better, but sadly, some people are even more in need these days which prices rocketing.

"Therefore, our community is very pleased to keep helping and it is very rewarding for us to play our part in helping those in need.”

Wadood Daud, President of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community in Hartlepool, said: “Caring for the needy is essential for building a compassionate and united community.

“Islam teaches that one must spend in the way of charity because there are blessings for those who make personal sacrifices to assist deserving, vulnerable, and struggling.”

The meals go towards St Aidan’s Church’s Kitchen which provides food for people who are hungry, homeless, or in any kind of need every Thurday.

Mother Becky Reeve said: “We at St Aidan’s Church are so grateful for the kindness and support of our friends at Nasir Mosque.

“Thanks to their dedicated generosity we have been able to provide tasty home-cooked food to our guests which feeds with love.”

Source: hartlepoolmail.co.uk

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https://www.hartlepoolmail.co.uk/news/people/hartlepool-mosque-hits-40000-milestone-of-free-meals-for-the-community-since-covid-8517149

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‘Xi would also like to see the Hormuz Strait open’: Donald Trump on US-China talks

May 15, 2026

US President Donald Trump said Chinese President Xi Jinping wants the Strait of Hormuz reopened, as the two leaders discussed the ongoing Iran conflict and global energy disruptions during high-level talks in Beijing.

Speaking to Fox News after his meeting with Xi, Trump said both leaders agreed that the strategically crucial shipping route, effectively shut since the Iran war began in late February, must reopen to stabilise global energy supplies.

“He’d like to see the Hormuz Strait open,” Trump said of Xi. “He said if I can be of any help whatsoever, I would like to help.”

Around 20 per cent of the world’s oil passed through the Strait of Hormuz before the conflict erupted, with prolonged disruptions pushing global crude prices sharply higher and raising fears of a wider economic slowdown.

Trump said Xi also opposed any proposal to impose tolls on ships crossing the strait and expressed interest in China potentially buying more American oil in the future to reduce its dependence on Gulf energy supplies.

Iran, economy dominate Trump-Xi talks

The Iran conflict emerged as a major focus during the two-hour meeting between the leaders at the Great Hall of the People, despite Trump earlier downplaying the issue before leaving for Beijing.

US secretary of state Marco Rubio had said before the summit that Washington would urge Beijing to pressure Tehran into ending the conflict.

“Economies are melting down because of this crisis,” Rubio said, as quoted by AP, warning that prolonged instability would eventually hurt Chinese exports as well.

China has publicly criticised US and Israeli strikes on Iran, but analysts say Beijing holds considerable leverage as Iran’s biggest trading partner.

Trump praises ties with Xi despite tensions

As he wrapped up his visit, Trump insisted relations between Washington and Beijing were improving despite disagreements over Iran, Taiwan and trade.

In a Truth Social post, Trump claimed Xi had congratulated him on his administration’s “tremendous successes” and said the Chinese leader’s remarks about the US being a “declining nation” were directed at former President Joe Biden rather than the current administration.

“Two years ago, we were, in fact, a Nation in decline,” Trump wrote. “But now, the United States is the hottest Nation anywhere in the world.”

Xi also hosted Trump at Zhongnanhai, the Chinese leadership compound usually reserved for special diplomatic engagements, in what observers viewed as a personal gesture toward the US president.

Taiwan remains key flashpoint

Despite the cordial public tone, Taiwan remained a sensitive issue during the summit.

According to news agency AP, Xi warned Trump privately that mishandling the Taiwan issue could push the two countries toward “clashes and even conflicts.”

Rubio later said US policy on Taiwan remained “unchanged” and warned it would be “a terrible mistake” for China to attempt to take the self-ruled island by force.

Trump and Xi also discussed possible trade deals, including increased Chinese purchases of US agricultural products and Boeing aircraft, as both sides sought to ease economic tensions amid the broader geopolitical uncertainty.

Source: indiatimes.com

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https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/us/xi-would-also-like-to-see-the-hormuz-strait-open-donald-trump-on-us-china-talks/articleshowprint/131107329.cms

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100 Days After His Assassination, Public Pressure Mounts to Reveal Killers of Saif al-Islam Gaddafi

14 May 2026

Legal moves and public pressure inside Libya, particularly from supporters of the former regime, have intensified in recent weeks, demanding that authorities disclose the circumstances surrounding the killing of Saif al-Islam Gaddafi.

Saif al-Islam, son of Libya’s late leader Moammar Gaddafi, was killed in the western city of Zintan on Feb. 3, 100 days ago.

Since Libyan Attorney General al-Siddiq al-Sour announced on March 5 that three suspects had been identified in connection with the crime - without revealing their names - public calls have grown for the full investigation findings to be released, for those behind the incident to be identified, and for all those involved to be brought to trial in order to ensure transparency and justice.

A Libyan source familiar with the matter in the capital, Tripoli, confirmed that new legal efforts are underway in the case.

Asharq Al-Awsat learned that Khaled al-Zaidi, head of the defense team in the Saif al-Islam assassination case, visited the office of the head of the Supreme Judicial Council, counselor Abdullah Abu Rzeiza, in Tripoli on Sunday morning. No details were disclosed about the visit or the issues discussed.

The same source, who requested anonymity, said that “these legal moves could lead to positive results and developments that may help uncover the truth and push the case toward greater clarity in the coming period,” without elaborating further.

Additionally, an initiative known as the “National Truth Committee on the Saif al-Islam Gaddafi Case” launched an online public petition calling on the attorney general to disclose details of the crime and announce the investigation results publicly, stressing the need to uphold the law and ensure the principles of justice.

The petition also called for legal measures against the three individuals referred to in the attorney general’s office statement, as well as an expansion of the investigation to include anyone who planned, participated in, financed or assisted in carrying out the crime.

At the same time, public pressure has increased across Libya. The Conference of Social and Political Activities and Civil Society Institutions in Fezzan called on the attorney general to clarify the reasons behind the delay in arresting the suspects, saying the continued ambiguity has raised widespread questions among the public.

Political activist Dr. Khaled al-Hijazi, who is close to the former regime, said the public pressure was “logical,” given that “the assassination of Saif al-Islam is a public opinion issue that cannot be ignored or covered up.”

He told Asharq Al-Awsat that “the importance of the case is compounded by its connection to a public political figure who previously ran in a presidential race and enjoys significant popular support inside the country.”

A source in the public prosecution office had previously told Asharq Al-Awsat that investigations into the case were still ongoing, in response to unofficial accounts circulating in Libya regarding the identities and regional affiliations of the perpetrators.

Source: aawsat.com

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https://english.aawsat.com/arab-world/5273061-100-days-after-his-assassination-public-pressure-mounts-reveal-killers-saif-al

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India

 

EAM Jaishankar holds talks with Iran Foreign Minister Araghchi on sidelines of BRICS

15 May 2026

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi on Friday held wide-ranging talks focusing on the West Asia crisis and its impact on energy supplies and maritime stability.

The Iranian foreign minister is on a three-day visit to New Delhi to attend a BRICS conclave.

"Had a detailed conversation with FM Abbas Araghchi of Iran this morning in Delhi," Jaishankar said on social media.

"Discussed the situation in West Asia and its implications. Also exchanged views on bilateral issues of mutual interest," he said.

The external affairs minister also appreciated Araghchi's participation at the BRICS foreign ministerial meeting.

Highlighting the engagement, the official handle of the Iranian Embassy in India took to X to share the diplomatic milestone, "H E Dr Seyyed Abbas Araghchi, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Republic of Iran, met with His Excellency Narendra Modi, Prime Minister of India."

Meanwhile, Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi, at the BRICS Foreign Ministers' Meeting, called for countries to unite against American bullying, arguing that such practices must be consigned to the "dustbin of history."

Had a detailed conversation with FM Abbas Araghchi of Iran this morning in Delhi. @araghchi

Discussed the situation in West Asia and its implications. Also exchanged views on bilateral issues of mutual interest.

Appreciate his participation in #BRICSIndia2026.

Addressing the gathering, Araghchi said many countries present were familiar with "slight variations of the same repugnant coercion". He urged BRICS nations to respond collectively and more assertively.

"To virtually everyone in this room, our resistance against US bullying is not an unfamiliar battle. So many of us encounter slight variations of the same repugnant coercion. It is high time for us to jointly step up and work towards making clear that those practices belong in the dustbin of history", he said.

"Today, our nations are closer to one another than ever before, and we cannot ignore the common and dangerous challenge we all face. History has shown that empires in decline will stop at nothing to arrest their inevitable fates. A wounded animal will desperately claw and roar on its way down", the Iranian Foreign Minister added.

Araghchi's comments come as several key global partners are gathered here in New Delhi to participate in the BRICS Foreign Ministers' Meet.

In a significant push to bolster regional stability and multilateral cooperation, Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi on Thursday.

The high-level interaction took place on the sidelines of the BRICS Foreign Ministers' Meeting in New Delhi, marking a pivotal moment in the bilateral trajectory between the two civilisational partners.

As New Delhi chairs the two-day ministerial gathering on May 14 and 15, the presence of these key figures underscores the ascending strategic weight of the BRICS forum as a critical platform for mediation amidst the volatile situation in West Asia.

Source: newindianexpress.com

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https://www.newindianexpress.com/india/2026/May/15/eam-jaishankar-holds-talks-with-iran-foreign-minister-araghchi-on-sidelines-of-brics

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'Janta mandate gone for a toss': BJP claims new Kerala CM will be 'remote controlled' by IUML

May 14, 2026

NEW DELHI: Hours after the Congress announced VD Satheesan as Kerala's next chief minister, the BJP launched a sharp attack on the party, alleging that the decision was influenced by the Indian Union Muslim League and accusing the Congress of surrendering to its alliance partner.

Soon after the announcement, BJP national spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla shared a post targeting the Congress leadership and the new Kerala government.

"Janta Mandate & MLA choice gone for a toss," Poonawalla wrote on X.

"New Keralam CM will be Remote Controlled by IUML. High command is Jamat. Jamat and IUML weighed upon Congress and got their pick as CM," he alleged.

The BJP's Kerala unit also intensified its criticism targeting both the Congress and the IUML leadership.

In another post shared by BJP Kerala, attributed to senior leader MT Ramesh, the party claimed: "It has once again been proven that the Congress High Command's henchman is the Muslim League and Ponnani. In deciding the Chief Minister, the Congress High Command knelt before the League leadership."

The BJP Kerala unit further alleged that the Congress leadership had no option but to bow before the IUML because of its political dependence in the state.

"11 days after the Keralam election results were declared on May 4, Congress has finally announced VD Satheesan as Keralam’s next CM," the BJP Kerala handle posted.

"Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi know INC cannot survive in Keralam or protect Wayanad without the Indian Union Muslim League. Satheesan becoming CM is a clear sign that Congress and Gandhis have ultimately bowed down to the IUML," the post added.

The BJP also circulated several memes through its official social media pages. In one such image, IUML state president Sayyid Sadiq Ali Shihab Thangal was depicted seated at the centre while Rahul Gandhi and Kharge were shown bowing before him and Satheesan was portrayed fanning him.

The posts were widely circulated with the hashtag 'CongressPoliticsOfAppeasement'.

Source: indiatimes.com

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https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/janta-mandate-gone-for-a-toss-bjp-claims-new-kerala-cm-will-be-remote-controlled-by-iuml/articleshowprint/131094322.cms

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'Congress new Muslim League’: BJP takes jibe as party names V D Satheesan as Kerala CM pick

May 15, 2026

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) took a jibe at the Congress after it named V D Satheesan as the CM pick after a 10-day suspense, calling the party the "new Muslim League".

The BJP accused the Congress of bowing to pressure from the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) in choosing V D Satheesan as Kerala’s next chief minister, while also alleging that internal “infighting” within the party would make the new government “remote-controlled”.

The Congress earlier in the day announced V D Satheesan as the next Kerala chief minister, bringing to an end days of suspense and speculation over the leadership choice.

The decision was announced at a press conference in Delhi by AICC Kerala in-charge Deepa Dasmunshi and the party’s central observers for the state, Ajay Maken and Mukul Wasnik.

The three main contenders for the post were Satheesan, K C Venugopal and Ramesh Chennithala.

BJP's accusation Kerala's Congress leadership

In a post on X, BJP national spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla said the decision had been imposed on the Kerala unit by the Congress central leadership.

"It is clear that Kerala's chief ministerial face was decided in New Delhi and not in Kerala. The announcement was made from the AICC headquarters in Delhi, which shows that this will be a remote-controlled 'sarkar' (government)," he said.

The BJP leader also claimed there was disagreement within the Gandhi family over the leadership choice in Kerala.

He alleged that Satheesan was selected due to "pressure from Priyanka Gandhi" who "did not want Rahul Gandhi's candidate K C Venugopal at any cost".

"Priyanka Vadra was dead against Rahul Gandhi's pick, K C Venugopal. In fact, there was a huge family fight over who would call the shots in Kerala," he claimed.

Poonawalla further blamed internal differences and pressure from alliance partners for the Congress's delay in announcing the new Kerala chief minister.

"After 11 days, the Congress party from Delhi has finally announced the name of V D Satheesan ji as the next Kerala chief minister. This has been done under two pressures. The Jamaat and the IUML had read the riot act to Congress. So, this is the clear influence of the Muslim vote bank," he alleged.

Drawing parallels with the Congress government in Karnataka, the BJP spokesperson alleged that factional rivalry would continue to trouble the party in Kerala as well.

"It will be the same model as the Karnataka Congress sarkar. There it was D K Shivakumar versus Siddaramaiah. Here it will be Satheesan versus K C Venugopal versus Chennithala versus Shashi Tharoor. There will be four to five claimants, who will constantly rock the boat," he claimed.

He said similar internal conflicts had affected Congress governments in states such as Himachal Pradesh, Punjab and Rajasthan.

"So, again, Kerala people will be bracing themselves for instability," he said.

Kerala's 10-day wait for a chief minister

A decision on the next Kerala chief minister had been pending since May 4, when the Congress-led UDF won 102 seats in the 140-member Assembly, securing more than a two-thirds majority.

BJP national spokesperson Pradeep Bhandari also alleged that decision-making in the Congress required the approval of the IUML and allied religious groups.

"It is clearly evident that the new Congress chief ministerial pick from Kerala was not the choice of the Congress MLAs but of the IUML," he said in a post on X.

Calling the Congress the "new Muslim League", Bhandari alleged that the Gandhi-Vadra family had once again acted according to the wishes of the IUML.

"The remote control of the Congress and the Gandhi-Vadra family is with the IUML. The Congress today is nothing short of a modern-day Muslim League. The Congress is the Muslim League-Maoist Congress," he alleged.

The Congress has 63 MLAs in the 140-member Kerala Assembly. Among its allies, the IUML has 22 seats, Kerala Congress (KEC) has eight, and the Revolutionary Socialist Party has three MLAs.

Source: hindustantimes.com

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NIA charges doctors in Red Fort blast case linked to AQIS terror conspiracy

Imran Ahmed Siddiqui

15.05.26

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Thursday filed a 7,500-page chargesheet before a Delhi court against 10 accused persons, including the doctors, allegedly involved in the car bomb explosion near the Red Fort in November last year.

The high-intensity blast, which occurred on November 10, 2025, killed 11 people and injured several others. It was allegedly carried out by a "white-collar" terror module linked to the organisation Ansar Ghazwat-ul-Hind (AGuH) — an offshoot of the Al-Qaida in the Indian Subcontinent (AQIS).

The Haryana-based Al-Falah University had come under scanner during the probe into a "white-collar" terror module following the alleged involvement of three doctors working at the university, including the alleged suicide bomber.

"All 10 accused, including the main perpetrator, Dr Umar un Nabi (deceased), were linked to the organisation Ansar Ghazwat-ul-Hind (AGuH) — an offshoot of the Al-Qaida in the Indian Subcontinent (AQIS), according to the charges filed before the NIA special court at Patiala House Courts in Delhi," the NIA said in a statement.

AQIS and all its manifestations were notified as terrorist organisations by the home ministry in 2018. The chargesheet has been filed under sections of the UAPA, Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita 2023, Explosive Substances Act 1908, Arms Act 1959, and Prevention of Damage to Public Property Act 1984.

Charges against Nabi have been proposed to be abated. Apart from Nabi, others named in the chargesheet include Aamir Rashid Mir, Jasir Bilal Wani, Dr Muzamil Shakeel, Dr Adeel Ahmed Rather, Dr Shaheen Saeed, Mufti Irfan Ahmad Wagay, Soyab, Dr Bilal Naseer Malla and Yasir Ahmad Dar.

Nabi, the lone occupant of the car that blew up near the Red Fort, worked at the Al-Falah hospital along with his colleagues, Muzammil and Shaheen. "The chargesheet is based on an extensive investigation spread across the states of Jammu and Kashmir, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Gujarat and the Delhi NCR region. It includes detailed evidence in the form of 588 oral testimonies, more than 395 documents and over 200 seized material exhibits," the agency said.

The agency has unravelled a major Jehadi conspiracy through detailed scientific and forensic investigation and found the accused, some of whom were radicalised medical professionals, to have been inspired by AQIS/AGuH ideology to carry out the deadly attack.

"At a clandestine meeting in Srinagar in 2022, the accused had reconstituted the AGuH terror outfit as 'AGuH Interim' following a failed Hizrat to Afghanistan via Turkey. Under the umbrella of the newly constituted outfit, they had launched 'Operation Heavenly Hind' aimed at overthrowing the democratically established Indian government and imposing Sharia rule," the agency said.

NIA investigation revealed that, as part of the Operation Heavenly Hind, the accused had recruited new members, actively propagated the violent Jehadi ideology of AGuH, stockpiled arms and ammunition, and manufactured explosives on a large scale using commercially available chemicals. The explosive used in the blast, it said, was triacetone triperoxide, which was manufactured by the accused by clandestinely procuring constituent ingredients and conducting experiments to perfect the explosive mixture.

The probe had further revealed that the accused had also been involved in illegal procurement of prohibited arms, including an AK-47, a Krinkov rifle, and country-made pistols with ammunition. They had experimented with rocket and drone-mounted IEDs to target security establishments in Jammu and Kashmir and other parts of India.

Source: telegraphindia.com

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'Clear why PM agreed to trade deal, halted Op Sindoor': Cong targets Modi over US plans to drop charges against Adani

15.05.26

The Congress on Thursday attacked Prime Minister Narendra Modi over media reports claiming that US authorities are moving to drop charges against billionaire Gautam Adani, saying it is now clear why the PM agreed to the “hopelessly one-sided” Indo-US trade deal and why he abruptly halted Operation Sindoor.

The opposition party's attack came after media reports claimed that US authorities are moving to settle the fraud charges against the Indian billionaire.

Reacting to the reports, Congress general secretary in-charge communications Jairam Ramesh said, “It is now clear why the PM agreed to the hopelessly one-sided Indo-US trade ‘deal’ that was really a steal by the US. And it is also clear why he abruptly halted Operation Sindoor on May 10 2025, acting on President Trump’s threats rather than on our national interest.” “Reportedly, the Trump Administration is about to drop all charges of corruption against Modani,” he said on X.

How much more “compromised" can the PM get, Ramesh asked.

The Justice Department may announce that they’re dropping the charges as soon as this week. The Securities and Exchange Commission is also moving to settle a parallel civil fraud case it brought against Adani and others in November 2024, the media reports claimed.

Source: telegraphindia.com

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Teacher among 2 held for aiding terrorists in J&K

 May 14, 2026

JAMMU: Police on Wednesday arrested two persons, including a teacher, for allegedly aiding foreign terrorists by providing them shelter and logistical support in Kishtwar district.

Kishtwar SSP Naresh Singh said, “One of the two, Mashkoor Ahmed, is a teacher in the school education department.”

Earlier, one Maneer Ahmed was also arrested for similar offences.

Both are residents of Kishtwar.

Source: indiatimes.com

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Mideast

 

Trump says he wants Iran uranium for optics

May 15, 2026

BEIJING: US President Donald Trump suggested that hunting down Iran’s enriched uranium was primarily for political optics, after Israel demanded it as a goal.

“I just feel better if I got it, actually, but it’s — I think, it’s more for public relations than it is for anything else,” Trump told Fox News host Sean Hannity in an interview from China broadcast late Thursday in the US.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who alongside Trump ordered an attack on Iran starting February 28, said in a recent interview that the war was “not over” because the sensitive nuclear material “has to be taken out” of the country.

Source: arabnews.com

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Gaza aid flotilla sets sail again after Israeli interceptions

May 14, 2026

MARMARIS, TURKIYE: Ships from the Global Sumud Flotilla set sail for a third time on Thursday from southern Turkiye, after earlier attempts to deliver aid to Gaza were intercepted by Israel in international waters.

The flotilla had previously departed from Spain on April 12, but Israeli forces intercepted vessels in the group, taking more than 100 pro-Palestinian activists to Crete and detaining two others in Israel.

Activists on the flotilla departing ‌from the ‌Turkish port of Marmaris said the flotilla needed ‌to ⁠reach Gaza to ⁠provide much-needed aid to the enclave at a time when global attention had shifted elsewhere, including to the impact of the Iran war.

“It’s very important that what’s happening around the world is not allowing us to see Gaza for the situation as it is,” said Susan Abdullah, a member of the flotilla’s steering committee. “The blockade is still ⁠on. The aid is not coming in.”

Katy Davidson, ‌an activist from the British ‌delegation on the flotilla, said the group had previously been intercepted between Sicily and ‌Crete. She criticized the response of the British government, which she ‌said “did nothing.”

Davidson added that even if the flotilla failed to reach Gaza, any interception would still help draw attention to the situation.

Turkish activist Seyma Denli Yalvac said limited media coverage would not deter the group.

“Even if no ‌channel reports on us, it doesn’t matter. We will continue on our path,” Yalvac told Reuters.

Pro-Palestinian ⁠activists say Israel ⁠and the US wrongly conflate their advocacy for Palestinian rights with support for Hamas militants.

Last October Israel’s military halted a previous flotilla assembled by the same organization, arresting Swedish activist Greta Thunberg and more than 450 participants.

Palestinians and international aid bodies, along with Turkiye and a number of other countries, say supplies reaching Gaza are still insufficient, despite a ceasefire reached in October that included guarantees of increased aid.

Most of Gaza’s more than 2 million people have been displaced, many now living in bombed-out homes and makeshift tents pitched on open ground, roadsides, or atop the ruins of destroyed buildings.

Israel, which controls all access to the Gaza Strip, denies withholding supplies for its residents.

Source: arabnews.com

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Syrian foreign minister raises his country’s flag to officially reopen embassy in Morocco

May 14, 2026

LONDON: The Syrian Arab Republic officially reopened its embassy in the Moroccan capital, Rabat, on Thursday after a hiatus of nearly 14 years.

Morocco severed diplomatic ties with Syria and declared the country’s ambassador persona non grata in 2012, following the brutal suppression by former president Bashar Assad of protests demanding social justice, and the subsequent outbreak of the Syrian civil war, which began in 2011 and continued until the fall of Assad’s regime in December 2024.

Asaad Hassan Al-Shaibani, Syria’s minister of foreign affairs and expatriates, raised his country’s flag over the embassy in the presence of his Moroccan counterpart, Nasser Bourita, the Syrian Arab News Agency reported.

Under Assad, Syria supported the Polisario Front, which strained relations with the Moroccan government; Rabat views the organization as a separatist group seeking to form an independent entity in Western Sahara, and therefore a threat to Morocco’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Transitional authorities in Damascus have mended and resumed ties with several countries since the fall of Assad, and have engaged in talks with a number of states in an effort to secure assistance to boost economic recovery and rebuild the country’s infrastructure, which was heavily damaged during the civil war.

Source: arabnews.com

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Iraq parliament approves new government in confidence vote

May 14, 2026

BAGHDAD: Iraqi lawmakers approved a new government on Thursday led by businessman Ali Al-Zaidi, who took office after months of deadlock and mounting US pressure.

“The Council of Representatives votes to grant confidence to the government of Prime Minister Ali Faleh Al-Zaidi and its ministerial program,” the prime minister’s media office said.

In Iraq, a government wins a confidence vote when parliament approves half plus one of its ministries.

Zaidi’s government should include 23 ministers, but its line-up remains incomplete as key political parties continue to negotiate several portfolios.

The INA state news agency said that an “absolute majority” of MPs approved 14 ministerial nominations that were put to vote.

Zaidi presented his government program during the parliament session — which was not broadcast live — but has yet to announce it publicly.

Zaidi, Iraq’s youngest prime minister at the age of 40, was chosen to form the new government on April 27.

His nomination followed months of deadlock after the United States, a key powerbroker in Iraqi politics, vetoed the previous frontrunner, former premier Nouri Al-Maliki.

He is backed by the Coordination Framework, a ruling alliance of powerful Shia groups with varying ties to Iran.

Iraq has long walked a tightrope between the competing influences of its allies, neighboring Iran and the United States.

Iraq’s new cabinet will be expected to address Washington’s longstanding demand that Baghdad disarm Iran-backed groups, which the US designates as terrorist organizations.

After the United States and Israel attacked Iran on February 28, those groups hit US facilities in Iraq more than 600 times before a ceasefire was announced, according to a US official.

Washington also struck their positions and bases, killing dozens of fighters.

Source: arabnews.com

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US Central Command chief: Iran’s ability to threaten neighbors dramatically degraded

May 14, 2026

WASHINGTON: US bombings have dealt a major blow to Iran’s military and its defense industry, leaving Tehran with only a small or perhaps very moderate ability to strike its neighbors, the US admiral commanding the war effort said on Thursday.

The remarks by Admiral Brad Cooper, head of US Central Command, follow reports by Reuters and other news organizations that cite US intelligence suggesting Iran retains a significant missile, drone and small boat capability.

Those capabilities have allowed Iran to continue striking neighbors, particularly the UAE, and pose a sustained threat to traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, a vital global energy chokepoint.

That Iranian defiance has roiled energy markets, led the US military to impose a naval blockade on Iran and ‌cast global doubt on ‌US President Donald Trump’s public claims of victory.

Cooper declined to offer ‌specific ⁠estimates of Iran’s remaining ⁠missile and drone inventories but played down their significance, saying the US military had achieved all of its objectives in its strikes on Iran.

He said Iran’s defense industry has been set back by 90 percent.

“They have a very moderate, if not small, capability to continue strikes,” Cooper told a US Senate committee. “And we, of course, have accordingly prepared for such a contingency.”

Iran was not only militarily weakened at home but also in the broader Middle East, Cooper said, adding Tehran is no longer able to transfer arms and other resources to its ⁠main allies in the region: Hezbollah in Lebanon, the Houthis in Yemen ‌and Hamas in the Palestinian enclave of Gaza.

“Those transfer paths and ‌methods have been cut off,” he said.

War doubts

A Reuters/Ipsos poll completed on Monday showed two out of ‌three Americans think Trump has not clearly explained why the country went to war with Iran and ‌revealed deep concerns about surging gasoline prices.

The poll also suggested many voters are casting blame for their troubles on Trump’s Republican allies who will be defending their congressional majorities in the November midterm elections.

Trump said his aims in starting the war were to destroy Iran’s nuclear program, end its capability to attack its neighbors and make it easier for Iranians ‌to overthrow their government.

Still, peace talks have stalled since an April 8 ceasefire amid US demands that include the removal of Iran’s highly enriched uranium ⁠and the reopening of ⁠the Strait of Hormuz. Experts caution that Iranian hard-liners appear firmly in control after US and Israeli strikes killed other senior leaders.

Violence has periodically flared, with an exchange of fire last week between the US and Iran, and Trump acknowledged earlier this week the ceasefire was on life support.

Cooper sought to focus on tactical as opposed to strategic aims of the war during his testimony. He declined to respond to questions about how to reopen the strait, secure Iran’s highly enriched uranium stockpiles or bring the conflict to a close on America’s terms, saying the information was classified, or deferring to Trump administration officials on policy matters.

“I speak from a military perspective. We have significantly degraded their drone, missile, and naval capabilities. We’ve fractured their command and control. We’ve eliminated the large preponderance of their space program. They, by every measure, are degraded significantly across all measures of national power,” Cooper told the committee.

Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, a Democrat, responded: “So what’s your exit strategy to end the conflict with Iran?” “Senator, that’s a policy decision,” Cooper responded.

Source: arabnews.com

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UN envoy announces deal to release more than 1,600 Yemen conflict detainees

May 14, 2026

LONDON: The UN’s Yemen envoy, Hans Grundberg, announced on Thursday that the country’s warring parties had agreed to release more than 1,600 conflict-related detainees following 14 weeks of negotiations in Jordan, in what he described as the largest prisoner release deal since the war began.

The Yemeni conflict erupted in 2014 when the Iran-aligned Houthi militia seized the capital, Sanaa, forcing the internationally recognized government to flee.

The UN envoy said the deal demonstrated that “even amid deep mistrust and prolonged conflict, dialogue can still yield results,” adding that the agreement offered “hope and relief to thousands of families who have waited far too long, some for over a decade, for the release of their relatives.”

He praised families of detainees for their advocacy efforts, saying: “Today’s achievement also belongs to them.”

Grundberg described the negotiations as “extraordinarily complex,” saying the parties continued discussions through Ramadan, Eid and a period of heightened regional tensions.

He also thanked the International Committee of the Red Cross for co-chairing the process and expressed appreciation to Jordan for hosting the talks in Amman.

The ICRC in a statement said both sides agreed on the identities of the detainees to be released, and added that the Geneva-based organization is ready to facilitate their repatriation.

Grundberg said previous rounds of negotiations in Oman and Switzerland had helped pave the way for the latest breakthrough.

Under the agreement, the parties have approved an implementation plan with the Red Cross to carry out the releases.

It was not immediately clear when the release will start.

Grundberg urged both sides to continue working toward additional prisoner exchanges, including through unilateral releases, in line with the “all-for-all” principle outlined in the Stockholm Agreement.

He also called for the release of UN personnel and other detainees still being held arbitrarily.

“I hope today’s agreement will build confidence and trust to make progress on what the Yemeni people need most — a sustainable peace,” he said.

Source: arabnews.com

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Syria seizes 142,000 captagon pills bound for Jordan

May 14, 2026

LONDON: Anti-narcotics authorities of the Syrian Arab Republic thwarted an attempt to smuggle 142,000 captagon pills into Jordan.

The Interior Ministry announced Thursday that smugglers used balloons equipped with GPS tracking and remote-control methods to transport drugs into Jordan near the southern territory, according to the Syrian Arab News Agency.

Criminal networks have long attempted to exploit Jordan as a transit point for smuggling drugs in the Middle East that are typically bound for Gulf countries from Syria, Lebanon and Iraq.

Smugglers are increasingly employing drones and balloons to transport narcotics into Jordan through the 362-km border with Syria. This month, the Royal Jordanian Air Force launched strikes against drug and weapons warehouses in the Druze-majority southern Syrian province of Sweida.

Source: arabnews.com

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Southeast Asia

 

On national Youth Day, Anwar announces RM5m allocation for Youth Council

May 15, 2026

SEREMBAN, May 15 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim today announced a RM5 million allocation for the Malaysian Youth Council (MBM) to strengthen the umbrella body’s role in advancing youth development in the country.

He said the additional RM1 million allocation compared with last year was recognition of MBM’s role as the main driver of the national youth agenda under the Ministry of Youth and Sports (KBS), while reflecting the government’s continued commitment to supporting youth development programmes.

“MBM is the sole youth association under the KBS. So this year, I agree to increase it to RM5 million… last year it was RM4 million,” he said when officiating the 2026 National Youth Day celebration here.

Also present were Negeri Sembilan Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun and Youth and Sports Minister Dr Mohammed Taufiq Johari.

Meanwhile, Anwar said the government had also allocated funds under the Islamic Development Programme benefiting 7,091 Kelas Al-Quran dan Fardu Ain (Kafa) teachers, imams, takmir teachers and mosque personnel nationwide, involving a total financial commitment of RM42.3 million.

The Prime Minister said support would also extend to Islamic educational institutions such as pondok schools, tahfiz centres, religious schools and Kafa premises operating outside the supervision of the Education Ministry, with RM5.4 million allocated for maintenance and institutional strengthening.

He said three projects in Negeri Sembilan had been approved by the Prime Minister’s Department Implementation Coordination Unit (ICU), involving RM800,000 in allocations for minor repair works at Maahad Tahfiz Al-Quran Al-Falah Kuala Sawah Rantau, Madrasah Az-Zaakiriin and Pondok Pesantren Darul Tauhid.

In his speech earlier, the Prime Minister also praised Aminuddin’s resilience and determination in navigating the state’s prolonged political challenges while continuing to prioritise the people’s welfare.

Anwar said he appreciated Aminuddin’s steadfast leadership and focus on developing the state despite facing continuous political pressures.

“I salute Menteri Besar Aminuddin for the resilience and spirit he has shown in facing the state’s never-ending political turmoil,” he said. — Bernama

Source: malaymail.com

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Sultan Nazrin honours teachers with special Friday sermon role across Perak mosques

May 15, 2026

IPOH, May 15 — The Sultan of Perak, Sultan Nazrin Shah, has consented to 625 educators and teachers in the state delivering Friday sermons today in conjunction with Teachers’ Day, which is celebrated annually on May 16.

Perak Islamic Religious and Malay Customs Council (MAIPk) president Tan Sri Mohd Annuar Zaini said the royal decree was intended to appreciate and recognise the important role and contributions of educators and teachers to the people and the nation.

“His Royal Highness the Sultan of Perak Darul Ridzuan, Sultan Nazrin Muizzuddin Shah ibni Almarhum Sultan Azlan Muhibbuddin Shah Al-Maghfur-Lah, has decreed that the Friday sermon in Perak on May 15, 2026, should carry the theme of teachers, in conjunction with Teachers’ Day on May 16, 2026.

“His Royal Highness has consented to educators and teachers being given the honour of serving as invited khatibs to deliver the sermon titled ‘Guru Berhikmah Membina Insan Sejahtera’,” he said in a statement today.

Mohd Annuar said following the royal consent, Education director-general Datuk Dr Mohd Azam Ahmad would lead educators and teachers in delivering the Friday sermon at the State Mosque (Sultan Idris Shah II Mosque).

“In addition, Ministry of Education Islamic Education Division director Omar Salleh will deliver the sermon at the Sultan Azlan Shah Mosque in Ipoh, while Samad Hassan, a religious teacher from SMK Bukit Merchu, will deliver the sermon at the Ubudiah Mosque, Kuala Kangsar,” he said.

Mohd Annuar added that in conjunction with the celebration, the Education Department would organise mosque enlivenment programmes at the State Mosque involving 2,000 students and education personnel.

“The students’ spiritual motivation programme will begin at 10.20 am and will be followed by the recitation of Surah Yasin, tahlil and prayers for well-being.

“His Royal Highness the Sultan of Perak will also graciously attend Friday prayers together with students and education personnel at the Sultan Idris Shah II Mosque,” he said. — Bernama

Source: malaymail.com

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Singapore Islamic council reprimands Starbucks for claiming ‘halal transition’ without application

15 May 2026

SINGAPORE, May 15 — Singapore’s top Islamic authority has publicly rebuked Starbucks after one of its outlets displayed a sign announcing a “transition toward halal-certified operations”, a claim made without any official application being submitted.

The Islamic Religious Council of Singapore (MUIS) issued a directive to the coffee giant after a photo of the sign at its Parkland Green outlet went viral, sparking a debate online.

The sign stated that pets would no longer be permitted in its seating areas from May 25 as part of this transition, The Straits Times reported.

In a statement, MUIS clarified that it “has not received any application for halal certification from Starbucks to date.”

“MUIS takes a serious view of this matter. Any reference to halal certification status, preparations towards halal certification, or an ongoing halal application process, prior to approval is strictly not permitted,” a spokesman said, adding that such claims can “mislead the public.”

The council has ordered Starbucks to remove all unauthorised references to its halal status across all public communications and materials.

The controversy prompted a swift apology and reversal from Starbucks. In a statement, the company said:

“There are no changes to our current store operations and pets will continue to be welcome on our premises. We apologise for any confusion caused by our earlier communication.”

It also confirmed that the May 25 deadline was no longer applicable.

The sign sparked a heated debate among netizens, particularly as the East Coast Park outlet is located next to a popular dog park. Users on social media criticised the move as alienating a key customer base, while others defended the proposed ban on hygiene grounds.

Clarifying the rules, MUIS’s official social media account, halalsg, explained that “pet dogs are not permitted within halal-certified establishments,” including outdoor areas.

This is because halal compliance covers the entire premises and operational procedures, not just ingredients. The account also noted that the Starbucks sign had wrongly led many to assume the chain was already certified or in the process of applying.

The incident is particularly notable as it comes after the Singapore Food Agency (SFA) relaxed its rules in January 2025, allowing eateries to welcome pets in outdoor areas without needing a special “pet cafe” licence.

Source: malaymail.com

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Grab engineer Mohammad Hasif Afiq becomes first Malaysian in Apple’s global developer honours programme

15 May 2026

KUALA LUMPUR, May 15 — Software engineer Mohammad Hasif Afiq has made history as the first Malaysian to be featured in Apple’s newly introduced Developer Recognition programme.

The 30-year-old, who currently serves as a senior iOS engineer at Grab, is among approximately 50 developers and community leaders recognised globally in the initiative’s inaugural batch.

Hasif described the recognition from the global tech giant as a surreal and emotional moment, after being notified via an official email from Apple’s Developer Relations team yesterday.

“My first reaction was complete disbelief. I genuinely thought I had read it wrongly, so I reread the email a few times before immediately going to the Apple Developer website to confirm it for myself.

“Once it finally sank in, I felt shocked, excited and deeply grateful at the same time. Knowing that I was the only Malaysian featured made the moment even more surreal and emotional for me,”he told Bernama when contacted.

He said the first people he shared the news with were his wife and parents.

Hasif said the recognition represents more than just a personal achievement, describing it instead as a proud moment for Malaysia’s local developer ecosystem.

“Being featured by Apple means a lot to me personally because it represents recognition from a company and ecosystem that has inspired me throughout my journey as a developer. Apple has always set a very high standard for innovation, creativity and user experience, so to be acknowledged by them is truly an honour.

“I hope this can inspire more Malaysian developers to confidently showcase their work and contribute to the global developer community. Talent exists everywhere, including Malaysia, and I believe this recognition shows that our work can also gain international attention and appreciation,” he said.

Hasif said his interest in app development began at the age of 17, driven by a fascination with Apple’s technology, which led him to build small projects through self-learning and experimentation before pursuing a Bachelor of Computer Science at Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) Shah Alam.

Hasif said that over the years, he has developed several applications, including Amalan Mukmin, Vacay, Hidayah App, Lylyn App and Bantu App, with some gaining strong traction locally, especially the Bantu App during the COVID-19 pandemic.

In his professional career, Hasif helped build the Boost Business application from the ground up and was among the pioneer engineers at GXBank, Malaysia’s first digital bank, before joining Grab to develop products used by millions across the region.

Reflecting on his journey, Hasif said one of the biggest challenges he faced as a developer was adapting to the rapidly evolving technology industry, with much of his learning coming through self-learning, trial and error, and independently solving technical issues.

Hasif believes his efforts in fostering the local developer community caught Apple’s attention, particularly through the co-founding of SwiftLah! in April 2025 as a community initiative for iOS developers and Apple enthusiasts in Malaysia.

The group has since grown from seven members to over 200 through regular meetups, technical sharing sessions and networking events.

“I think Apple values not only developers who build products, but also developers who contribute back to the ecosystem and help grow the community around them.

“Malaysia has a lot of talented developers who are capable of building world-class products. The challenge is usually not talent, but exposure, opportunities and access to the right platforms and communities,” he said. — Bernama

Source: malaymail.com

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Must pass SPM BM and History first: Anwar confirms UEC students can enter public universities

15 May 2026

SEREMBAN, May 15 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim today confirmed that the Cabinet has approved the new admission pathways for graduates from Chinese Private Secondary School (SMPC) or holders of the Unified Examination Certificate (UEC) into public universities.

He said all students, regardless of their schooling stream, must meet the basic requirement of passing Bahasa Melayu and History subjects at the Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) level.

“The Cabinet decision on SMPC/UEC comes with the condition that students pass Bahasa Melayu and History subjects in SPM. So, we are giving them space, although perhaps beginning with several courses first, because previously this was not agreed upon. Now, when Chinese schools are accepted, we accept it positively as well.

“This does not apply only to SMPC/UEC students, but also to students from Arabic schools, secondary religious schools, tahfiz institutions and others. The same conditions apply, including for Malaysian students in international schools. It’s just that there are still some details being discussed,” he told reporters after officiating the 2026 National Youth Day celebration here today.

Yesterday, the Ministry of Higher Education (MOHE) in a statement said that the government has agreed on several decisions concerning entry pathways for students outside the national education system to pursue studies at Public Institutions of Higher Learning (IPTA) in the country.

It said it would be based on merit calculations according to subject packages determined by the Ministry of Education (MOE) and subject to the general and specific programme requirements set by universities through a merit-based selection process. — Bernama

Source: malaymail.com

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Jho Low pardon bid: Anwar says ‘we are not going that route’, leaves US decision to Washington

15 May 2026

SEREMBAN, May 15 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said Malaysia will not consider any pardon application involving fugitive businessman Low Taek Jho, better known as Jho Low.

He said the matter was a non-issue for the Malaysian Government as court proceedings involving the individual were still ongoing.

“It’s a non-issue. We are not going to consider that. No,” he told reporters after officiating the 2026 National Youth Day (HBN) celebration here today.

Asked whether the government would formally oppose any move by the United States (US) regarding the matter, Anwar said: “As far as we are concerned, we are not going that route...but of course, what the US decides is their own business.”

The Prime Minister also said that he was unaware of any pardon application submitted by Jho Low.

“We have made it very clear, it’s a non-issue. Even if he has submitted an application (for pardon), it’s not an issue that we should discuss because he is still undergoing this process in court,” he said.

Two days ago, foreign media reported that Jho Low, who has been accused by the US of masterminding one of the largest financial frauds in history, had allegedly filed a pardon application to US President Donald Trump several weeks ago.

According to the report, approval of the application would result in the US criminal charges against Jho Low being dropped.

The report also stated that the US Department of Justice website listed an application filed under the name Taek Jho Low this year as “pending” for a “Pardon after Completion of Sentence”.

The businessman was charged in 2018 with misappropriating about US$4.5 billion (RM17.7 billion) from 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB) funds, but remains at large and wanted by authorities. — Bernama

Source: malaymail.com

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Malaysia condemns Israeli minister’s Al-Aqsa incursion

15 May 2026

Malaysia condemns Israeli minister’s Al-Aqsa storming as a grave provocation, calling for international action.

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia has condemned in the strongest terms the storming of the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound by a Zionist Israeli minister, describing the move as a grave provocation that risks further inflaming tensions in occupied East Jerusalem.

In a statement, the Foreign Ministry said the act, carried out under the pretext of marking Israel’s occupation of East Jerusalem, was an insult to the sanctity of Al-Aqsa Mosque and reflected Israel’s continued disregard for international norms and religious sensitivities.

“Malaysia regards this action as part of a deliberate and systematic pattern of Israeli provocations in the occupied East Jerusalem aimed at entrenching illegal occupation and altering the status quo of Al-Aqsa Mosque.

“Such actions constitute flagrant violations of international law and relevant United Nations resolutions, which explicitly reject any unilateral attempt to alter the status, legal character, or demographic composition of Jerusalem, including occupied East Jerusalem,” the statement read.

As the occupying power, Israel bears full responsibility under international law to protect religious sites and refrain from actions that inflame tensions, the Foreign Ministry said.

“These repeated and deliberate incursions further demonstrate a pattern of escalation that risks provoking wider instability in an already fragile regional situation,” the statement read.

Malaysia also called on the international community, particularly the United Nations Security Council, to take immediate and decisive action to ensure accountability and demand that Israel halt further provocations.

The ministry reaffirmed Malaysia’s steadfast solidarity with the Palestinian people and its commitment to safeguarding their religious, cultural, and national heritage.

“Malaysia reiterates its unwavering support for the establishment of an independent and sovereign State of Palestine based on the pre-1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital,” it stated.

Source: thesun.my

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South Asia

 

Bangladesh, US sign deal on energy cooperation

15 May 2026

Bangladesh and the United States have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on Strategic Cooperation in the Field of Energy aimed at enhancing Bangladesh’s long-term energy security.

Foreign Minister Khalilur Rahman and US Energy Secretary Chris Wright signed the MoU at the US Department of Energy in Washington, DC, on Thursday, according to a statement issued today by the Bangladesh Embassy in Washington, DC.

“This MoU would contribute to the efforts of Bangladesh to enhance its long-term energy security by diversifying its energy sourcing options based on affordability and supply chain sustainability and would open up new avenues of broader energy cooperation between Bangladesh and the US,” the statement said.

The MoU will facilitate capacity building, exchange of knowledge and expertise, and studies on oil, gas, geothermal energy and bioenergy between the two countries. It will also support Bangladesh’s import of US LNG, LPG and other energy products at affordable prices.

Speaking briefly at the signing ceremony, Khalilur described the MoU as another milestone in the growing Bangladesh-US relationship.

He thanked Prime Minister Tarique Rahman and US President Donald Trump for their support behind the initiative.

Chris Wright termed the MoU a historic development in Bangladesh-US relations.

The agreement comes at a time when many countries, including Bangladesh, are facing serious challenges in ensuring energy security due to ongoing conflicts in the Middle East.

Officials of the Bangladesh Embassy and senior officials of the US Department of Energy were present at the signing ceremony.

Source: thedailystar.net

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Ex-minister Mosharraf Hossain’s janaza held in Chattogram amid tight security

14 MAY 2026

The namaz-e-janaza of former housing and public works minister Engineer Mosharraf Hossain was held at the premises of Jamiatul Falah National Mosque in Chattogram city this morning amid tight security.

People from all walks of life, including leaders of different political parties, professionals and well-wishers, attended the funeral prayers held at 11:00am.

Following the janaza, a special munajat was offered seeking eternal peace for the departed soul of the veteran politician. His body was later taken to his ancestral village for burial.

Witnesses said a section of the crowd briefly chanted the slogan “Joy Bangla” after the prayers concluded.

Mosharraf Hossain died yesterday at the age of 83 while undergoing treatment at a private hospital in Dhaka. His body was brought to the Jamiatul Falah premises this morning, drawing thousands of mourners.

Security was strengthened in and around the mosque area to prevent any untoward incident.

Despite the ongoing official ban on political activities of the Bangladesh Awami League, thousands of leaders, activists, local government representatives, and socio-cultural figures gathered to pay their last respects, recalling his political career and contributions to the development of greater Chattogram.

Among the prominent attendees was Shahadat Hossain, mayor of Chattogram City Corporation and a BNP leader.

Speaking on the occasion, Shahadat expressed deep shock at the veteran politician’s death on behalf of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, his party, and the city corporation.

“Former minister Mosharraf Hossain led a colourful political life. Throughout his career, he contributed significantly to the development of greater Chattogram,” Shahadat said.

“Though he hailed from Mirsharai, he worked tirelessly for the entire region. People will always remember him for his development initiatives,” he added.

Former CCC mayor Mahmudul Islam Chowdhury, former president of the Communist Party of Bangladesh Shah Alam, and Chattogram North District Awami League General Secretary Sheikh Ataur Rahman also spoke at the programme.

They recalled Mosharraf Hossain’s role in the 1971 Liberation War and his contribution to infrastructure development in Chattogram.

Speaking on behalf of the family, the former minister’s eldest son Sabedur Rahman sought prayers for his father and asked forgiveness from all.

“Today is a day of immense grief for our family. Our father was hospitalised for a long time. We tried our level best, but all efforts went in vain,” he said.

Source: thedailystar.net

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EU envoy meets opposition leader

15 May 2026

Ambassador of the European Union to Bangladesh Michael Miller yesterday paid a courtesy call on Leader of the Opposition and Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Dr Shafiqur Rahman at the latter’s office in parliament.

The discussions focused on making democracy more meaningful following the national parliamentary election, ongoing reform initiatives and the implementation of the referendum verdict, according to a press release issued by the Parliament Secretariat.

The two sides also exchanged views on various issues relating to Bangladesh and the EU.

During the meeting, both sides stressed the importance of taking necessary measures to ensure that the upcoming local government elections are held in a free, fair and credible manner.

They also hoped the existing relations, development cooperation and progress between Bangladesh and the EU would be further strengthened in the future.

Source: thedailystar.net

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Over 30 Afghanistan Companies Join Kazan Halal Exhibition

By Fidel Rahmati

May 14, 2026

An international halal products exhibition featuring more than 30 Afghanistan companies opened in the Russian city of Kazan during the “Russia–Islamic World: KazanForum” economic gathering.

According to Russian media reports, around 100 companies from countries including Afghanistan, Russia, Turkey, Saudi Arabia and Kazakhstan are displaying halal-certified food, clothing, cosmetics and other products at the exhibition.

Russian trade officials said Afghanistan imported halal products from Tatarstan worth more than $30 million during the first four months of this year, marking a sharp increase compared with the same period last year.

A delegation from the Taliban administration, led by Higher Education Minister Neda Mohammad Nadeem, also traveled to Kazan to attend the economic forum.

Russian officials previously said several economic agreements involving fuel supplies, agricultural products and infrastructure investment in Afghanistan could be signed during the forum.

Russia has expanded economic engagement with Afghanistan in recent years despite ongoing security concerns and international sanctions linked to the Taliban administration.

Russian officials have also warned that tensions between the Taliban and Pakistan have slowed some planned regional economic projects involving Afghanistan.

Source: khaama.com

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Over 500 Detained Afghan Migrants Return From Pakistan

By Fidel Rahmati

May 14, 2026

More than 500 Afghan migrants detained in Pakistan returned home this week as deportations and cross-border repatriations continue increasing.

Ministry of Refugees and Repatriation said 561 Afghan citizens detained in Pakistan were released and returned to Afghanistan during the current week amid continuing deportation and repatriation operations affecting Afghan migrants.

According to the statement, 481 of the returnees entered Afghanistan through the Torkham Border Crossing, while another 80 people crossed through Spin Boldak Border Crossing.

The ministry stated that the individuals had been arrested in Pakistan due to lacking legal residency documents and were later transferred back to Afghanistan after registration procedures and the distribution of limited humanitarian assistance.

Meanwhile, United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees said that more than 11,000 Afghans returned from Pakistan, Iran, Tajikistan and several other countries between May 3 and May 9 this year.

Reports also stated that nearly 1,000 Afghan families returned to the country in a single day, with official figures showing that 975 families, comprising more than 5,200 people, arrived through different border crossings.

According to the High Commission for Addressing Migrants’ Problems, more than 1,100 of those returning families were later transferred to their home provinces under what officials described as a “safe relocation process.”

The continuing wave of deportations and returns has increased pressure on Afghanistan’s fragile economy and humanitarian system, as international agencies warn that millions of people already face poverty, unemployment and severe food insecurity across the country.

Recent reports by United Nations Development Programme said nearly three-quarters of Afghanistan’s population cannot meet basic living needs, while mass migrant returns, drought and declining international aid are worsening humanitarian conditions.

Source: khaama.com

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UNAMA Voices Concern Over Detention of Three Afghan Journalists

By Fidel Rahmati

May 14, 2026

United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan on Thursday expressed concern over the detention of three Afghan journalists by the Taliban, saying the arrests were reportedly carried out without clear legal justification or publicly disclosed charges.

UNAMA said it was also alarmed by reports of assaults on journalists and the confiscation of media equipment during recent Taliban inspection and security operations conducted in different parts of Afghanistan.

The United Nations mission called on Taliban authorities to clarify the reasons behind the detentions and ensure that all detained journalists receive access to legal procedures and protections guaranteed under international human rights standards.

UNAMA further urged Taliban officials to respect freedom of expression and allow journalists and media workers to continue their professional activities without intimidation, harassment or fear of retaliation.

The journalists detained in Kabul last week were identified as Omran Danish and Mansour Niazi from TOLOnews, along with Jawid Niazi, head of the local news agency “Paigard.”

Amnesty International had earlier condemned the arrests and warned that increasing restrictions on independent journalism were deepening the climate of fear for Afghan media workers under Taliban rule.

According to Reporters Without Borders, Afghanistan has experienced one of the sharpest declines in global press freedom rankings since the Taliban returned to power in 2021, with many independent outlets shut down or operating under severe restrictions.

Female journalists in particular have faced mounting challenges, including bans on appearing on television without face coverings, restrictions on travel and work, and growing pressure that has forced many women reporters to leave journalism entirely or flee the country.

Media advocacy groups say dozens of journalists have been detained, threatened or assaulted over the past several years, while censorship and pressure from Taliban authorities continue to limit independent reporting across Afghanistan.

The crackdown on journalists comes amid broader international criticism of Taliban policies restricting civil liberties, especially measures targeting women and girls, including bans on education, employment and public participation.

Source: khaama.com

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EU Says UN Report Shows Afghans Facing Severe Humanitarian Challenges

By Fidel Rahmati

May 14, 2026

The European Union delegation in Afghanistan has expressed concern over the worsening humanitarian and economic situation in the country, citing a recent report by the United Nations Development Programme.

In a statement released on Thursday, the EU delegation said Afghans continue to face severe challenges, including widespread poverty, food insecurity, climate-related shocks, displacement and restrictions imposed on women and girls under Taliban rule.

The European Union reiterated calls for the removal of restrictions on women and girls, warning that continued limits on education, employment and freedom of movement were worsening Afghanistan’s economic decline and humanitarian crisis.

According to the latest UNDP report, nearly 28 million people in Afghanistan were living in poverty in 2025, while about 74% of the population faced food insecurity or livelihood instability. The agency said weak economic growth, declining international aid, worsening drought and the return of millions of Afghan migrants had intensified pressure on already vulnerable families.

The report also said Taliban policies targeting women had weakened the labour force and reduced household incomes across the country. UNDP warned that Afghanistan’s economy grew by only 1.9% in 2025, far below population growth, leading to declining living standards and rising unemployment.

The United Nations said more than 80% of Afghan households were in debt, while millions struggled to secure basic necessities such as food, clean water, healthcare and shelter. Earlier this week, the UN also reported that 13.8 million people in Afghanistan were facing severe food insecurity.

International agencies have repeatedly warned that cuts in global humanitarian funding are worsening conditions in Afghanistan, where hundreds of health centres have closed or reduced services because of budget shortages.

Since the Taliban returned to power in 2021, Afghanistan has faced deep economic isolation, falling foreign investment and widespread unemployment. Western governments and international organisations have continued to link long-term economic recovery and international engagement to improvements in human rights, particularly the rights of women and girls.

Source: khaama.com

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Arab World

 

Makkah environment office intensifies inspections to curb unauthorized animal slaughter ahead of Hajj

May 15, 2026

MAKKAH: The Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture’s office in Makkah province conducted a proactive field inspection campaign as part of the efforts of the Unauthorized Slaughter Control Committee.

The campaign is in cooperation with Makkah Municipality, the General Administration of Mujahideen, and the National Company for Agricultural Services.

The campaign is part of the early preparations for the Hajj season and aims to enhance public health safety and reduce visual pollution in Makkah.

The joint field efforts resulted in the detection of several violating sites and the confiscation of sheep and camels prepared for slaughter outside officially approved slaughterhouses.

Legal penalties were also imposed on violators in accordance with the applicable regulations and instructions.

Source: arabnews.com

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Riyadh Metro’s landmark Western Station opens for full operations

May 15, 2026

RIYADH: The Royal Commission for Riyadh City has launched full operations at the Western Station of the Riyadh Metro project, the Saudi Press Agency reported, marking the completion of the metro’s four principal stations and adding a major new landmark to the capital’s public transport network.

The station, which opens on Friday, is the largest of the metro’s four iconic stations — alongside King Abdullah Financial District Station, STC Al Olaya Station, and Qasr Al Hokm Station — and spans a total area of 112,000 square meters.

Designed with both scale and sustainability in mind, the Western Station has earned LEED Gold certification for design efficiency and environmental performance. Its facilities include commercial spaces, a mosque accommodating 550 worshippers, public amenities, and a transport parking area with capacity for more than 600 vehicles.

The station is built to handle more than 60,000 rail passengers and 1,300 bus passengers per hour, cementing its role as a major interchange hub connecting routes and key destinations across Riyadh.

The Western Station, located in the Dhahrat Al Badiah quarter, southwest of downtown Riyadh, sits along the orange line of the Riyadh Metro, which links the Jeddah station and Tuwaiq on the western end to Khashm Al An on the eastern end.

The launch reflects the rapid advancement of Riyadh’s integrated urban infrastructure and its broader goals of improving quality of life, boosting mobility, and reducing reliance on private vehicles — all central pillars of Saudi Vision 2030.

Source: arabnews.com

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Mawhiba showcases Saudi experience at ISEF 2026 in Phoenix

May 15, 2026

PHOENIX: King Abdulaziz and His Companions for Giftedness and Creativity Foundation (Mawhiba) organized a specialized seminar during the 2026 Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair in Phoenix, US.

The seminar highlighted Saudi Arabia’s experience in discovering and developing young scientific talents and managing international participation in global innovation platforms.

The event discussed pathways for building scientific exhibitions, strategies for preparing students, and methods for attracting and training personnel.

The session was held as part of the Saudi Science and Engineering Team’s participation in ISEF 2026.

Source: arabnews.com

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Saudi Arabia floats Middle Eastern non-aggression pact with Iran: FT

May 14, 2026

LONDON: Saudi Arabia has discussed the idea of a Middle East non-aggression pact with Iran as part of efforts to manage regional tensions after the end of the US-Israel war with Tehran, according to foreign diplomats cited by the Financial Times.

While the report contained no Saudi confirmation, it said Riyadh is considering a model inspired by the 1975 Helsinki Accords, which aimed to reduce tensions and boost cooperation between rival powers during the Cold War.

According to the FT, European countries and EU institutions support the proposal and are encouraging Gulf states to back it as a way to prevent future conflict and provide Iran with security guarantees.

The discussions come as Gulf states fear a weakened but more aggressive Iran could continue to pose a threat to the region after the war. The report also said Arab states remain concerned over Iran’s missile and drone capabilities, as well as regional instability involving Israel, Gaza, Lebanon and Syria.

The FT added that Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, Turkiye and Egypt are deepening defense and economic cooperation following the conflict, while Pakistan has proposed expanding its defense pact with Riyadh to include Qatar and Turkiye.

Source: arabnews.com

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Foreign ministers chair Saudi-Greek strategic partnership council meeting in Athens

May 14, 2026

RIYADH: Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan and his Greek counterpart Giorgos Gerapetritis co-chaired a Saudi-Greek strategic partnership council meeting in Athens on Thursday.

During the meeting, they reviewed relations between their countries, highlighted the progress achieved in various fields of cooperation, and discussed ways to strengthen and develop these relations, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The ministers also exchanged views on a number of regional and international issues of common concern and emphasized the importance of enhancing coordination and political consultation to support efforts aimed at promoting regional and international security and stability.

Earlier, the ministers signed an agreement on visa exemption for holders of Saudi and Greek diplomatic, special, and service passports.

Prince Faisal also visited Spain and the UK on official visits this week.

Source: arabnews.com

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Exhibition highlights Al-Shuaybah Islamic coin hoard

May 14, 2026

JEDDAH: “The Sunken Treasures: The Maritime Heritage of the Red Sea” exhibition is attracting locals and foreigners in Jeddah.

Being held at the Red Sea Museum, the exhibition features Al-Shuaybah treasure coins, a hoard of Islamic silver coins recovered from a shipwreck off the coast of Al-Shuaybah, a historic port linked to serving pilgrims traveling to Makkah.

Dating from 1225 to 1350 AD, the coins shed light on regional trade networks and economic exchange across the Red Sea during that period, offering valuable insight into the area’s maritime and commercial history.

The significance of the coins is further underscored by their recovery after being taken outside the Kingdom, in an effort that reflects ongoing initiatives to protect cultural heritage and preserve archaeological artifacts.

Around 300 silver coins were successfully recovered from the hoard, which is estimated to have originally contained approximately 5,000 pieces.

Running until May 29, the exhibition offers a rich cultural and educational experience through visual displays and interactive technologies. The artifacts recovered from the Red Sea stand as evidence of long-standing maritime navigation and centuries of cultural and commercial exchange.

Source: arabnews.com

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Riyadh University of Arts opens applications for first student intake

HAJAR ALQUSAYER

May 14, 2026

RIYADH: Riyadh University of Arts has opened admissions for its first cohort of students, with classes scheduled to begin in September as Saudi Arabia continues expanding its cultural and creative landscape.

Applications opened on May 14 for eight academic programs across four colleges spanning film, music, theatre, and cultural management.

Programs under the College of Film include a Bachelor of Film and Television Production, a Master of Screenwriting, and an Intermediate Diploma in Film and Television Production.

The College of Music will offer a Bachelor of Music, Bachelor of Music Industry, and Bachelor of Music Education.

The university is also introducing a Bachelor of Acting for Theatre and Film through the College of Theatre and Performing Arts, alongside a Master of Arts in Arts Management under the College of Cultural Management.

Students will work on live projects with cultural and creative sector partners, undertake cooperative training as a graduation requirement in selected programs, and benefit from mentorship by professionals already shaping the Kingdom’s creative output, university spokesperson Abdulmajid Al-Assaf told Arab News.

“Through the Ministry of Culture, RUA also sits within a wider ecosystem of commissions, festivals and cultural institutions,” he said.

The university’s admissions process is “holistic,” Al-Assaf added. “Where auditions, portfolios or interviews form part of the assessment, we are looking as much for originality, potential and artistic distinction as for a prior professional track record … What matters most is creative ambition and the drive to grow.”

He said that the university aims to attract international talent and has developed programs in partnership with academies abroad, including USC School of Cinematic Arts, Guildhall School of Music and Drama, AMDA College of the Performing Arts, Royal College of Art, SOAS University of London, and ESSEC Business School.

The launch of the programs comes as the Kingdom increases investment in its cultural industries under Vision 2030, with a growing focus on developing local talent in areas including film production, music, performance, and arts management.

Programs are designed to provide specialized academic pathways that align with the needs of the cultural sector and support the development of a new generation of Saudi creatives and practitioners, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The university plans to expand further in the coming years, with three additional colleges expected to open by 2027, the College of Heritage and Civilization Studies, the College of Design and Architecture, and the College of Visual Arts and Photography.

Admission requirements vary depending on the discipline and may include academic qualifications, assessments, interviews, auditions, and portfolio submissions.

Prospective students can review scholarship information, tuition fees, program details, and admission requirements through the university’s official website.

Riyadh University of Arts aims to support the Kingdom’s growing cultural ecosystem through advanced academic programs and research initiatives.

Source: arabnews.com

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https://www.arabnews.com/node/2643588/saudi-arabia

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Europe

 

Shocking moment masked thugs firebomb Muslim prayer room in Blackburn cafe

Sam Elliott-Gibbs

14 May 2026

This is the moment masked louts launch firebombs on a Muslim prayer room with the second attack on the building inside a week caught on CCTV.

The spiritual room, at the front of Café Raha in Blackburn, Lancashire, went up in flames after the yobs hurled lit bottles of accelerant at 2.30am on Tuesday morning. Locals were recovering from a similar early-hours incident at the centre last week as police say there is 'no suggestion' that either were racially-motivated attacks.

Footage showed a group of men, wearing balaclavas, throwing firebombs into the windows of the building, which then sets alight. Firefighters were called to the scene to put out the fire while police also attended and have confirmed an investigation has been launched.

Lancashire police issued a statement saying: "While the motivation for the attack has yet to be fully established there is no suggestion at this time that the incident is racially or religiously motivated.

"We are aware that incidents such as this can be quite distressing for the local residents in Blackburn and wider communities, but we would like to reassure you that is an ongoing and active police investigation, and we will provide an update as soon as we have concluded our enquiries.

"We have increased reassurance patrols in the area; therefore, the public will see an increase in police presence in the area. If you see our police officers out and about in your area and are concerned, please come and speak to us."

Owner Mohammed Awais told the Lancashire Telegraph: "We put our hearts and souls into this place. We have not done anything to anyone. Whatever it is, it should not push someone to do something so dangerous.

"It is affecting people’s livelihoods and staff rely on their work to survive. There is no reason to do something reckless like this. If there is an issue or something has gone wrong in the store they should come and see us."

He added: "We are also thankful to the fire teams and the local neighbour who appears to have alerted them straight away. They could have targeted anywhere but why come to this area? From the outside you can see it is a prayer room through the glass. You can see the Arabic verses and the prayer mats."

A Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson added: "At 2.40am, three fire engines from Blackburn and Hyndburn attended an incident on Whalley New Road, Blackburn involving a fire in a single-storey building."

Source: mirror.co.uk

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https://www.mirror.co.uk/news/uk-news/shocking-moment-masked-thugs-firebomb-37154427

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Ukrainian drones kill three in attack on apartments in Russia – governor

15 May, 2026

Ukrainian drones killed three people and injured 12 others in the Russian city of Ryazan after striking high-rise residential buildings, regional Governor Pavel Malkin has said.

Ryazan, the capital of the eponymous region located 210 km (130 miles) southeast of Moscow, was targeted overnight, with the UAVs damaging two apartment complexes. Some of the victims are children, Malkin said. He added that an unnamed industrial facility was also targeted.

According to photos from the scene, one of the drones struck the Tricolor residential complex, a group of three 25-story buildings decorated in the colors of the Russian flag.

Videos from the scene show that several apartments were destroyed in what appears to be a direct hit.

Drone attacks were also reported in several other regions across western and southern Russia, including Voronezh and Rostov.

Source: rt.com

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https://www.rt.com/russia/640012-ukrainian-drones-strike-ryazan/

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Muslim community centre given go-ahead for new gym and sports hall

David Bentley

15 May 2026

A community centre in Coventry has now been given permission to add two new extensions including a new gym and sports hall.

Resubmitted plans have been approved for the additional facilities at Coventry Muslim Community Centre in Red Lane, Foleshill.

A single-storey front extension almost 14m long would be turned into a gym and sports hall with boxing mats, while a rear first-floor extension nearly 12m long will be used as a kitchen serving an existing internal banqueting hall for 400 people.

Four of the 82 car parking spaces on site would be lost but a series of surveys of the use of the centre at different times over a one-week period showed there are still enough spaces to meet peak demand.

Notification letters of the proposals were sent to adjoining properties. The council says no objections have been received.

The site, also known as Coventry Muslim Resource Centre, was previously expanded to provide healthcare, daycare, offices, a creche, day nursey and training conference facilities.

The city council said: "The proposed extensions would fit in with the existing building and would not harm the character of the area. The building itself its set back from Red Lane and Stoney Stanton Road and therefore will not be prominent to the street scene.

"The extensions are of an acceptable scale, design and materials and therefore would be compliant to the Coventry Local Plan.

"The proposed building is located at a significant distance to residential properties. Thus, the proposed extensions are to have no harmful impact upon the nearby neighbouring residential uses."

Approval for the plans by applicant Zia Khan and agent Kunal Nim (KSN Design Ltd) was granted subject to conditions including a rule that the gym must be used solely in connection with the existing community use at the centre and not sub-divided, sub-let or run as a separate business.

In addition, the work must be carried out within three years, building materials similar to those in the main building should be used, and details of any equipment or machinery and their noise emissions must be agreed by the council.

Source: coventrytelegraph.net

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https://www.coventrytelegraph.net/news/coventry-news/muslim-community-centre-given-go-33945735

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Azerbaijan’s Minister of Culture unveiled new cultural heritage cooperation initiatives with ICESCO

14.05.2026

An Azerbaijani delegation led by Minister of Culture Adil Karimli is attending the 15th General Conference of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) in Kazan, Republic of Tatarstan, Russian Federation.

During the session, Adil Karimli delivered remarks, conveying Azerbaijan’s congratulations to Salim bin Mohammed AlMalik on his re-election as ICESCO Director-General and extending best wishes for his future endeavors. He stated that President Ilham Aliyev highly values Azerbaijan–ICESCO cooperation and continues to support the further strengthening of ties with the organization.

He noted that the designation of Shusha as the “Cultural Capital of the Islamic World” for 2024, the inscription of the “Imarat” Complex in Aghdam and the State Reserve of Shusha on ICESCO’s Islamic World Heritage List last year, as well as ICESCO’s international technical missions to the liberated territories, serve as clear manifestations of close cooperation.

The minister emphasized that ICESCO’s experience should be applied in other conflict-affected areas of the Islamic world. He noted ongoing cooperation with ICESCO and international partners to restore cultural heritage damaged in conflicts and to develop a roadmap. He also announced that a special session and a security model will be presented at the upcoming World Urban Forum in Baku.

Describing the opening of the ICESCO Regional Office in Baku as a crucial step for strengthening Azerbaijan’s ties with Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan, Adil Karimli emphasized that it will serve as a platform for advancing cooperation in education, science, and culture in the region.

The minister also provided insights into the “ICESCO-Azerbaijan Natavan Excellence Award,” jointly established by the Heydar Aliyev Foundation and ICESCO, noting that it provides a solid foundation and new opportunities for cultural dialogue.

Adil Karimli further stated that ICESCO is a key partner of the “Baku Process,” launched in 2008 on the initiative of President Ilham Aliyev, and invited participants to the 7th World Forum on Intercultural Dialogue, scheduled to take place in Baku from October 27 to 29.

Source: azertag.az

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https://azertag.az/en/xeber/azerbaijans_minister_of_culture_unveiled_new_cultural_heritage_cooperation_initiatives_with_icesco-4189151

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Latvian PM resigns after row over stray Ukrainian drones

14 May 2026

Laura Gozzi

Latvian Prime Minister Evika Silina has resigned following a political crisis over Russia-bound Ukrainian drones straying into Latvian territory.

She had fired her Defence Minister Andris Spruds last week after two drones crashed down in eastern Latvia, criticising his response and appointing a replacement.

In protest, Spruds's Progressives party pulled their support for Silina's governing coalition, causing it to collapse months before a planned general election in October.

"Seeing a strong candidate for the post of defence minister... political windbags have chosen a crisis," Silina said on Thursday. "I am resigning but I am not giving up."

The political fallout was triggered by the incursion of three drones into Latvian airspace on 7 May - the second such accident since the start of 2026.

Both Latvia and Ukraine acknowledged that the drones may have been Ukrainian UAVs intended to target Russia whose signals had been jammed, leading them to stray into Latvia.

One drone crashed on the ground while another struck an empty oil product storage facility near the town of Rezekne. The third flew in and out of Latvian airspace.

There were no casualties or injuries - but local residents told media that the official response to the incident had been delayed and insufficient. They said the cell broadcast alert system had not been activated for an hour after one of the drones crashed near Rezekne.

Silina had said after the incident: "Something went wrong. We cannot afford for this situation to continue."

She said she had also asked Spruds to resign because of the situation in the Latvian defence sector as a whole.

The Baltic country spends 5% of its GDP on national defence, Silina noted, which she said entailed a "much higher level of responsibility toward society... that requires clear results".

President Edgars Rinkevics said he would take a decision on the "quickest possible formation" of a new government on 15 May.

Evika Silina was appointed Latvia's prime minister in September 2023, heading a three-party coalition government.

Her government has been steadfast in its support of Ukraine against Russia.

Latvia, like the other two Baltic countries Lithuania and Estonia, feels increasingly nervous about potential Russian aggression.

It has significantly accelerated its defence capabilities and officially reintroduced compulsory military service a year after Moscow launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

Source: bbc.com

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https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cwy21k5917jo

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Pope Leo slams Europe’s military buildup as ‘betrayal’ of diplomacy

14 May, 2026

Pope Leo XIV has condemned rising European military spending, warning that rearmament betrays diplomacy and fuels tensions in a world already being “maimed by wars.”

Global military spending approached a record $3 trillion in 2025 despite lower US outlays, according to a SIPRI report released last month, with Europe recording the sharpest regional increase. SIPRI linked the surge to the Ukraine conflict, tensions with Russia, and growing US pressure for greater NATO burden sharing.

Pope Leo argued that such policies should not be described as defense, but as dangerous rearmament. Addressing students at Rome’s Sapienza University on Thursday, he said that young people were asking older generations what kind of world they would leave behind.

“A world unfortunately maimed by wars… In the last year, the growth in military spending worldwide, and particularly in Europe, has been enormous,” the pontiff said. “Let’s not call ‘defense’ a rearmament that increases tensions and insecurity, depletes investments in education and healthcare, undermines trust in diplomacy, and enriches elites who care nothing for the common good.”

He also warned about the growing use of artificial intelligence in warfare, citing conflicts in Ukraine, Gaza, Lebanon, and Iran as evidence of “the inhumane evolution of the relationship between war and new technologies in a spiral of annihilation.”

The pontiff has become increasingly outspoken on global conflicts in recent weeks. His speech came shortly after an unprecedented public spat with US President Donald Trump over the Iran conflict. US-born Leo criticized the war and called Trump’s threat to destroy Iranian civilization “unacceptable,” prompting Trump to repeatedly mock the pontiff, including calling him “terrible for foreign policy.”

Tensions appeared to ease earlier this month when Leo met US Secretary of State Marco Rubio during the latter’s visit to Rome, the two pledged “to work tirelessly in favor of peace,” according to the Vatican.

Trump has repeatedly pressured European allies to boost military spending and signed an executive order in February prioritizing US weapons sales to countries with higher defense budgets. In 2025, at Trump’s urging, NATO backed a new defense spending target of 5% of GDP for member states.

At the same time, EU officials have also continued pushing for higher military spending, citing what they claim to be a growing ‘Russian threat’ and fears that Moscow could attack Europe after the Ukraine conflict ends. Alongside pledges to raise NATO spending, EU countries last year launched initiatives such as ReArm Europe to revamp their militaries.

Moscow has repeatedly dismissed claims it poses a threat to Europe as “nonsense” and condemned what it calls reckless EU militarization. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov recently argued that European “warmongers” were deliberately portraying Russia as a “model external enemy” to distract from their domestic crises.

Source: rt.com

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North America

 

U.S. Sen. John Cornyn introduces BOOT Sharia Law Act to bar 'anti-American' immigrants

May 14, 2026

AUSTIN, Texas - U.S. Sen. John Cornyn introduced legislation Thursday that would bar immigrants who support or advocate for Sharia law from entering or remaining in the United States, issuing the proposal just days before early voting begins in Texas’ Republican Senate runoff.

The news release from Cornyn’s office argues the measure is necessary to protect constitutional freedoms and prevent what the senator described as "the spread of anti-American ideology."

DHS authority over immigration benefits

Cornyn's Ban Outsiders Openly Touting (BOOT) Sharia Law Act would deny immigration benefits, including asylum and green cards, to noncitizens who endorse "the imposition of Sharia Law" or support terrorist groups and anti-American activities.

According to Cornyn's office, the legislation would expand the Department of Homeland Security’s authority to deny or revoke immigration benefits for immigrants who support terrorism, advocate for terrorist organizations or oppose the U.S. form of government.

Cornyn’s defense of constitutional protections

When speaking on the Senate floor, Cornyn framed the proposal as part of a broader effort to defend constitutional protections as the nation approaches its 250th anniversary.

"Sharia Law is the antithesis of what our country stands for: freedom of conscience, religion, and speech," Cornyn said in a statement. "My bill would ensure no alien who supports this hateful ideology is welcome in America."

He pointed to examples in Nigeria and parts of Europe where he said Sharia-based legal systems or "parallel legal norms" have restricted religious freedoms and punished blasphemy.

"These incidents occurring in Nigeria may seem far away, but they underscore the dangers of what can happen in a country that is not guided by the values that we hold dear here in America," Cornyn said.

Texas' EPIC City controversy

The measure marks the latest step in Cornyn’s campaign against the application of Sharia law in the United States and follows a series of actions targeting a planned Muslim-centered development in North Texas known as EPIC Ranches City.

In April 2025, Cornyn urged the Department of Justice to investigate the East Plano Islamic Center’s proposed 402-acre development in Josephine, Texas, arguing it could discriminate against Christians, Jews and other non-Muslims. Cornyn said the project appeared designed as an "exclusive religious settlement where Islamic principles govern not only daily life and education, but commerce."

The senator referenced the development again during his Senate floor remarks, calling it "a very lightly veiled attempt at religious discrimination."

The backstory:

In October 2025, Cornyn and Sen. Tommy Tuberville, R-Ala., introduced the No Sharia Act, which would prohibit courts from enforcing foreign laws or contracts that violate constitutional rights.

That bill would also prevent the application of foreign legal standards in cases involving marriage, divorce, custody and inheritance that are inconsistent with U.S. law.

In December, Cornyn and Sheehy introduced separate legislation aimed at revoking the tax-exempt status of organizations accused of providing material support to terrorist groups, specifically naming the Council on American-Islamic Relations, or CAIR. Cornyn described the organization at the time as "a radical group of terrorist sympathizers."

Civil rights concerns, legal pushback

Civil rights and Muslim advocacy organizations have previously criticized efforts to target Sharia law in the United States as discriminatory and unnecessary, arguing the Constitution already prohibits any religious code from superseding federal or state law.

What's next:

The BOOT Sharia Law Act has not yet been scheduled for committee consideration.

Source: fox7austin.com

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https://www.fox7austin.com/news/u-s-sen-john-cornyn-introduces-boot-sharia-law-act-bar-anti-american-immigrants

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Sharia-Free America Hearing marked by attacks on Muslim advocacy groups

May 14, 2026

WASHINGTON, May 14 (UPI) -- Muslim civil rights groups denounced the second "Sharia-Free America" hearing this week after a group of House Republicans attempted to highlight the threat of Sharia law to the U.S. Constitution and institutions, especially in Texas.

"What brought us out is the absurdity of a Sharia hearing in Congress when there's actually no real threat of Sharia law or imposition of Sharia law in the U.S.," Haris Tarin, vice president of policy and programming at the Muslim Public Affairs Council, told Medill News Service after the hearing.

"It's a farce. It's a fear tactic. And unfortunately, it impacts real American Muslims," Tarin said after the House Judiciary Subcommittee on the Constitution and Limited Government session on Wednesday.

Rep. Chip Roy, R-Texas, who founded the 63-member "Sharia-Free America" Caucus in December with Keith Self, R-Texas, has held two hearings. In February, the Council on American-Islamic Relations, the nation's largest Muslim civil rights organization, designated the caucus an anti-Muslim hate group.

"We don't take a designation of a congressional caucus as an anti-Muslim hate group lightly," Robert McCaw, the council's national government affairs director said.

"The anti-Muslim caucus, led by [nearly] 70 members of Congress, has one singular goal -- to ensure that Muslims do not have a place in American society and that their rights are stripped."

McCaw sat in the front row of the packed gallery that included members of the Council on American-Islamic Relations and the Muslims Public Affairs Council. Both groups denounced the hearings as Islamophobic, emphasizing that the U.S. Constitution protects all religions.

Roy argued that Sharia law contradicts U.S. federal law and should therefore be banned. In November, he introduced legislation that would deny entry and immigration benefits to foreign nationals who adhere to Sharia law. The bill has yet to advance out of the subcommittee.

"The radicals pushing political Islam do not want to co-exist with America's culture or political order; they want to replace it," Roy said. "The principles of Sharia law undermine the cherished freedoms that countless Americans have suffered and even died for since our nation's founding."

But Democrats were quick to push back against Roy and the caucus' claims. The subcommittee's top Democrat, Mary Gay Scanlon, D-Pa., argued that the hearings were meant to serve as a distraction from "a failing economy and rising gas prices" as the November midterms approach.

"It's a threat based not on reality, but invented, with manufactured alarm," she said. "Like belief systems that guide adherence of other faiths, including Christianity or Judaism, Sharia is about individual, personal, religious observance, not about shaping America's national laws."

The hearing's witnesses included Amy Mekelburg, founder and editor-in-chief of the RAIR Foundation, which describes itself as dedicated to reclaiming the country from those "waging war on our nation - on our Constitution, our borders and our Judeo-Christian values," according to the group's website.

RAIR stands for rise, align, ignite, reclaim and says it is a "grassroots activist and investigative journalism organization>"

Mekelburg criticized the Council on American-Islamic Relations and other Muslim civil rights groups, claiming they have ties to terrorist organizations. In November, Texas Gov. Greg Abbott designated the Council on Islamic-American Relations a foreign terrorist organization.

"When we object, they scream Islamophobia. Their Super PAC floods our elections; mosques run voter drives," Mekelburg said in her opening statement. "Our nation's leaders are failing children. Members of Congress, the American people are awake. Washington is not."

The Democrats' only witness was executive director of the Baptist Joint Committee for Religious Liberty, Amanda Tyler, who leads the faith-based organization in defending religious freedoms. At one point, Rep. Robert Onder Jr., R-Mo., questioned Tyler about whether Islamic law would allow honor killings, child marriage and female circumcision.

"Those are against criminal law in the United States," Tyler responded, arguing that a separate anti-Sharia statute is unnecessary and violates the First Amendment. "You're not allowed to act on those beliefs because it would be against criminal law."

Another member of the Free-Sharia America Caucus, Rep. Wesley Hunt, R-Texas, asserted, "When we begin importing belief systems and cultural values that are fundamentally incompatible that build this nation. We should not be surprised when the social fabric begins to fray."

House Republicans on the subcommittee maintained Texas is under siege by Sharia law, citing plans for the East Plano Islamic Center, a 402-acre residential and community project in the northeast part of the state. All four witnesses Wednesday were Texas residents.

After the session, Scanlon said she believes these hearings are meant to boost support among the right ahead of November's midterms.

"We think that the first hearing, and this hearing, and a bunch of other hearings that have been in between have had much more to do with Texas politics, including the fact that the chair is running for attorney general," Scanlon said afterward.

"If they see that it's not politically useful [after the midterms], then they probably will back off."

Source: upi.com

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https://www.upi.com/Top_News/US/2026/05/14/4211778772159/

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CAIR Md. Marks End of 2026 Md. Legislative Session With Reflections on Key Progress, Challenges

May 14, 2026

Civil rights group thanks lawmakers, advocates who championed justice, civil rights and dignity for Maryland’s Muslim and marginalized communities

The Maryland office of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) today marked the end of the 2026 Maryland General Assembly session with the release of its annual legislative round-up highlighting key advocacy efforts, policy victories, ongoing work in progress, and the growing power of Muslim civic engagement in Annapolis.

The 2026 Maryland General Assembly session came to a close with Sine Die on Monday, April 13. As CAIR Maryland reflects on 90 days of sustained advocacy, the civil rights organization extends its gratitude to lawmakers, advocates, interfaith allies, students, faith leaders and community partners who worked alongside CAIR to advance justice, protect civil liberties, defend human rights and build long-term power for meaningful change.

This session saw the historic launch of Maryland’s Legislative Muslim Caucus, formally announced during the annual Maryland Muslim Lobby Day in Annapolis. Together with broad-based, interfaith coalitions, CAIR Maryland worked throughout the session to advance measures protecting immigrant communities, strengthening voting rights, promoting juvenile justice, expanding cultural recognition, and defending free speech and human rights.

CAIR Maryland supported or opposed 27 bills this session, submitting oral and/or written testimony, delivered more than 48,000 community emails to state lawmakers, helped make hundreds of calls, led or participated in four press conferences, rallies and vigils, and joined several coalition advocacy letters.

Among the major victories highlighted in the round-up were the Maryland Voting Rights Act, Community Trust Act, the Youth Charging Reform Act, Muslim and Jewish American Heritage Month legislation, the Data Privacy Act, prohibitions on voluntary immigration enforcement agreements, and protections for sensitive locations such as schools, hospitals and courthouses.

During Palestine Advocacy Week from March 9-12, CAIR Maryland joined advocates, faith leaders, students, and community members from Palestine Christian Alliance for Peace, Jewish Voice for Peace Baltimore and DC Metro chapters, Leaders of a Beautiful Struggle, IfNotNow Baltimore and other partners to testify before lawmakers in support of legislation focused on Gaza, Sudan and Congo, Palestinian rights, free speech, educational equity, and ethical investment practices by the State of Maryland.

Although the Palestine advocacy bills did not cross the finish line this year, CAIR Maryland emphasized that the outcome does not define the movement, nor erase the historic record created this session. More than 100 oral and written testimonies were submitted in support of Palestinian rights, dignity and humanity, representing what CAIR Maryland described as the most expansive and prominent showing of grassroots advocacy for Palestine in the state’s legislative history.

In a statement, CAIR Maryland Director Zainab Chaudry said:

“Progress is not only measured by the bills that pass. It is also measured by the courage of students who testify, the persistence of families who call lawmakers, the coalitions that refuse to be silent, and the public record we build together in defense of justice. This session showed that Maryland’s Muslim community and our allies are organized, principled, and committed for the long haul.

“We are grateful to every lawmaker who led with courage, every advocate who showed up, and every community member who answered the call. Whether defending immigrants from harmful enforcement practices, advancing increasingly endangered voting rights, protecting young people from doxxing attacks, or standing up for Palestinian human rights, our movement made clear that justice cannot be delayed forever and conscience cannot be erased from the public record.”

CAIR Maryland reaffirmed its commitment to working with lawmakers, coalition partners and impacted communities to advance unfinished priorities in future sessions and to continue building civic power for Maryland’s Muslim and marginalized communities.

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.           

Source: cair.com

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https://www.cair.com/press_releases/cair-md-marks-end-of-2026-md-legislative-session-with-reflections-on-key-progress-challenges/

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CAIR Commends House Democrats Who Countered Anti-Muslim Hate at ‘Sharia Hoax’ Hearing

May 14, 2026

The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today commended Democratic members of Congress who defended American Muslims and constitutional religious freedom during yesterday’s House Judiciary subcommittee hearing on “Sharia law.” CAIR also condemned Republican members and witnesses for promoting anti-Muslim fearmongering and dangerous smear tactics amid rising anti-Muslim hate incidents nationwide.

Ahead of the hearing, CAIR submitted a formal statement and briefing materials to the House Judiciary Subcommittee on the Constitution and Limited Government, rebutting anti-Muslim conspiracy theories promoted by the hearing and warning that the proceedings risk legitimizing discrimination against American Muslims. CAIR’s submission argued that the hearing recycled long-debunked “Sharia hoax” narratives portraying ordinary Muslim religious practices and civic participation as inherently threatening.

CAIR said yesterday’s Republican-led hearing hysterically and falsely portrayed ordinary American Muslim religious life – including mosques, Muslim schools, halal food, prayer accommodations, Qurans, Muslim charities, Muslim civic organizations, immigration, and community institutions – as somehow evidence of a supposed civilizational threat to the United States.

Rather than presenting evidence that Muslims are attempting to replace American law or overthrow the Constitution, CAIR notes Republican members and witnesses repeatedly framed visible Muslim participation in American public life itself as inherently suspicious. Throughout the hearing, Muslim community institutions were described as “beach heads,” Muslim students and schools were portrayed as ideological threats, and ordinary religious accommodations were treated as evidence of infiltration and extremism.

CAIR previously designated the so-called “Sharia-Free America Caucus” organizing the hearing as an anti-Muslim hate group after multiple caucus members publicly called for banning the practice of Islam, expelling Muslims from the United States, or targeting mainstream Muslim organizations and communities.

In a statement, CAIR Government Affairs Director Robert S. McCaw said:

“This hearing was not a serious constitutional discussion. It was a spectacle built around anti-Muslim conspiracy theories that treated ordinary Muslim life in America as inherently suspicious.

“Democratic members repeatedly made the devastatingly simple point that far too many Republican members of this committee were willing to demonize Muslim Americans for political attention during an election cycle.

“We thank Subcommittee Ranking Member Mary Gay Scanlon, Committee Ranking Member Jamie Raskin, and Representatives Pramila Jayapal, and Sydney Kamlager-Dove, who forcefully defended the Constitution, religious freedom, and the humanity of the American Muslim community during today’s hearing.

“When halal meals, Qurans in libraries, prayer accommodations, Muslim charities, mosques, student groups, and Muslim community development projects are portrayed as evidence of extremism, this stops being about security and becomes an attack on the legitimacy of Muslims existing visibly in American public life.”

Key Quotes from Democratic Members and Constitutional Advocates Defending Muslim Americans

Subcommittee Ranking Member Mary Gay Scanlon

Rep. Scanlon directly accused Republicans of manufacturing anti-Muslim conspiracy theories for political gain: “they’ve made up a conspiracy theory about their Muslim neighbors in order to scare and motivate voters. But repeating lies over and over and over again doesn’t make them true, and doesn’t make unconstitutional bigotry legal.”

She further dismantled the hearing’s core premise: “they’re not producing one ounce of proof to vindicate their fear-mongering.”

Scanlon also stated: “there’s no evidence of any plot …. It’s just not happening.”

She warned about the real-world impact of anti-Muslim rhetoric: “Words matter and stirring up hatred and bigotry. When that happens, real people are put at risk. Hate crimes against Muslims in particular have increased.”

And affirmed the constitutional place of Muslims in America: “Muslims were intended to be included within the fabric of American life.”

Committee Ranking Member Jamie Raskin

Rep. Raskin mocked the repeated hearings as political theater: “I can’t believe that the cupboard of Republican ideas is so barren now that in order to distract America from Donald Trump’s illegal, unconstitutional, ruinous war and his ruinous, illegal, unconstitutional tariffs and the spiraling price of gasoline and the unlivable economy he’s created that we have to go back and have this exact same hearing over and over again.”

He rejected claims that Muslims are trying to impose Sharia law through Congress: “We have 535 members of Congress and only four of them are Muslim, which makes it extremely unlikely…. and what is reassuring is I actually know some of these Muslim Americans who happen to be in Congress and they’re all civil libertarians who stand up for the Constitution.”

Raskin then defended the First Amendment: “The whole point of our First Amendment is that people can go believe whatever they want. The government’s not going to dictate to you what your religious worship and practice are going to be. The government is out of it.”

He further warned: “The real threat to our Constitution comes not from adherence of a particular religion, but from turning our backs on the Constitution and the First Amendment.”

And condemned attempts to turn Americans against one another based on religion: “Our freedoms are not under siege by a religious minority trying to build a community center, but they are undermined by lawmakers who would want to turn Americans against each other on a religious basis.”

Raskin also rejected collective blame against Muslims: “you wouldn’t blame all Christians for what [Oklahoma City Bomber Timothy McVeigh] did any more than you should blame all Muslims or all Jews or all members of any religious faith because of what one person or one crazed fanatic group does in their name.”

Following the hearing, CAIR’s Maryland office welcomed Rep. Raskin’s forceful defense of the Constitution and religious freedom.

Rep. Pramila Jayapal

Rep. Jayapal condemned the broader anti-Muslim framing of the”… it is bizarre to me to listen to this hearing. Honestly, now we’ve [Republicans and Republican witnesses have] suddenly made all mosques the beach-head of terrorism across the country. This is a very important religion around the world and certainly here in the United States. Islam is a very important religion.”

Rep. Sydney Kamlager-Dove

Rep. Kamlager-Dove denounced the hearing as election-season anti-Muslim fearmongering: “That’s right, it is election season, which means Republicans turn up the fear-mongering to level 10 and easy targets are members of our Muslim community. And this hearing allows my Republican colleagues to legitimize their religious bigotry.”

And added: “I am talking to my constituents every day. No one has brought up Sharia law. It is not a pressing issue, but it is a manufactured crisis.”

Democratic Witness Amanda Tyler, Baptist Joint Committee for Religious Liberty

Baptist Joint Committee for Religious Liberty Executive Director Amanda Tyler strongly defended constitutional protections for Muslims and all Americans: “Targeting individuals and groups based on religion violates our country’s constitutional commitment to religious freedom for all.”

She warned that current political efforts targeting Muslims fuel fear and discrimination: “We have seen government initiatives that manufacture an imaginary threat of Sharia as a way of sewing anti-Muslim fear in the past.”

Tyler also condemned the use of broad stereotypes and accusations against Muslims: “When the government itself targets religious groups with broad generalizations and baseless accusations, it only adds to the culture of discrimination that already harms Muslim families and children. It models bullying rather than respect.”

Tyler additionally warned that legislation and hearings singling out Islam undermine constitutional protections: “Even proposed legislation targeting a particular religion can undercut our fundamental religious freedom by perpetuating harmful stereotypes and misinformation about Islam and Muslims.”

She also clarified the actual meaning of Sharia during the hearing: “Sharia… refers to the religious principles that guide Muslims in their beliefs and actions.”

And Tyler closed by condemning political fearmongering around Muslims and religion: “Rather than fear-mongering and distorting religion for perceived political gain, our country’s leaders should be actively working to make the constitutional promise of full belonging without regard to religion a reality for all.”

—

CAIR will continue opposing anti-Muslim bigotry in Congress and challenging efforts to stigmatize Muslim civic engagement and participation in American public life.

The organization also warned about reports that Senator Ted Cruz is preparing another Senate Judiciary Committee hearing next week reportedly targeting American Muslim organizations and Muslim civic engagement activities. CAIR warned that continued congressional hearings promoting anti-Muslim conspiracy theories risk further legitimizing discrimination, harassment, and threats against Muslim communities nationwide at a time of rising anti-Muslim hate incidents.

Source: cair.com

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US court suspends sanctions on UN expert on Palestinians

May 14, 2026

WASHINGTON: US judge on Wednesday imposed a temporary injunction on sanctions imposed last year by Washington on a United Nations expert on the occupied Palestinian territories.

UN Human Rights Council Special Rapporteur Francesca Albanese was sanctioned in July 2025 after she publicly criticized Washington's policy on Gaza.

In announcing the sanctions, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio slammed the UN expert's criticism of the United States and said she recommended to the International Criminal Court that arrest warrants be issued against Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

The Italian-born expert, who assumed her mandate in 2022, has faced harsh criticism by Israel and some of its allies over her relentless criticism and long-standing accusations that Israel is committing "genocide" in Gaza.

In his court order Wednesday, US District Judge Richard Leon granted a preliminary injunction against the sanctions, according to a court filing seen by AFP.

"Protecting the freedom of speech is 'always' in the public interest," Leon wrote in an opinion accompanying the order.

Albanese, who said the US sanctions were "calculated to weaken my mission" when they were first imposed, and celebrated the ruling on social media.

"Thanks to my daughter and my husband for stepping up to defend me, and everyone who has helped so far," Albanese said in a statement on X. "Together we are One."

UN special rapporteurs like Albanese are independent experts who are appointed by the UN rights council but do not speak on behalf of the United Nations.

Source: indiatimes.com

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https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/us/us-court-suspends-sanctions-on-un-expert-on-palestinians/articleshowprint/131089917.cms

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Trump brought top CEOs to Beijing but few big deals emerge

May 15, 2026

Suranjana Tewari

US President Donald Trump says he has struck "fantastic trade deals, great for both countries" as he met his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping for a final round of talks in Beijing.

The US president, who was accompanied to China by a high-profile business delegation spanning agriculture, aviation, electric vehicles and artificial intelligence (AI) chips, described ties between the two countries as "the world's most consequential economic relationship".

The summit has so far been defined more by warm rhetoric and symbolism than concrete economic outcomes, with day one featuring elaborate ceremonies and upbeat language but no sweeping trade breakthrough or significant business agreements.

Trump and Xi held more than two hours of closed-door talks on Thursday, which the White House called "highly productive". Trump, speaking at the Great Hall of the People, called it potentially "the biggest summit ever".

Xi said earlier trade talks in South Korea had delivered "progress", but paired that with a stark warning on Taiwan, saying: "If mishandled, the two nations could collide or even come into conflict."

No deal but fragile trade truce continues

Despite the choreography, there was no major trade deal or structural agreement.

In an interview with Fox News, Trump said China had agreed to order 200 Boeing jets, its first purchase of US-made commercial jets in nearly a decade.

But that is less than many analysts had expected. Boeing shares fell more than 4% after the comments were aired.

The BBC has contacted Boeing for comment.

There are still questions over the trade truce agreed in October, which saw Washington suspend steep tariff increases on Chinese goods while Beijing eased back from restricting rare earth exports.

US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer, who is with Trump in China, told Bloomberg TV on Friday that it had not yet been decided whether to extend the truce beyond November.

The White House said both leaders agreed to establish a "Board of Trade" - to manage the relationship without having to reopen tariff negotiations.

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, who has been leading trade talks for Washington, said in a pre-recorded interview with business news channel CNBC that he expected progress on a mechanism to support future investment too.

US officials have cautioned, however, that there is a lot of work to be done before these can be fully operational.

Tech and trade

This was a visit where optics mattered as much as outcomes, and one of the most closely watched moments came as Air Force One touched down in Beijing.

Elon Musk stepped off the plane ahead of senior officials including Pete Hegseth, Marco Rubio and US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer - on a trip heavily focused on trade.

Musk and Nvidia chief Jensen Huang also stayed close to Trump during the welcome ceremony, symbolising how central electric vehicles, AI and semiconductors have become to the US-China relationship.

Both companies are deeply exposed to China.

Tesla relies heavily on its Shanghai gigafactory and Chinese consumers, while Nvidia sits at the centre of the AI race and US export controls on advanced chips.

Huang's appearance was particularly notable because he was not on the original delegation list, fuelling speculation that AI and chip access featured more prominently in talks than expected.

Trump later told Fox News that "China is going to invest hundreds of billions of dollars with those people", without elaborating further.

Market access and co-operation

Deals on Chinese purchases of farm goods and beef have been firmed up, according to US trade representative Jamieson Greer.

Farmers in the US have been seeking more Chinese access for soybeans, beef, poultry, but no firm details have been announced.

According to the White House, the talks included discussion of expanding Chinese market access for US companies and increasing Chinese investment into US industries.

Xi told US business leaders that China's "doors will open wider" and that American firms would have "broader prospects" in the Chinese market, according to news site Xinhua.

He also called for expanded cooperation in trade, agriculture, healthcare, tourism and law enforcement, describing bilateral ties as "mutually beneficial" and delivering "win-win results".

For US companies, China remains both a major market and a difficult operating environment due to regulation, red tape and geopolitical uncertainty.

The 'most sensitive' issue

One of the clearest shifts emerging from the summit was how directly Beijing is now linking Taiwan to the broader economic relationship with the United States.

Over the past year of trade talks, Taiwan had largely been treated as one of several friction points between the US and China - particularly US collaboration with semiconductor companies, US-Taiwan trade ties, and arms sales to Taipei.

But Chinese messaging from the meeting suggested Taiwan is increasingly being framed as a condition for the US-China trade relationship.

According to Beijing's readout, Xi said the two sides had agreed to a "new positioning" for relations based on "constructive strategic stability", but warned that Taiwan remained the most sensitive issue.

"The Taiwan question is the most important issue in China-US relations," Xi warned during the talks, according to Chinese state media.

"If mishandled, the two nations could collide or even come into conflict," he said.

Unresolved fault lines

Technology remains the biggest divide between the US and China.

US export controls on advanced semiconductors and chipmaking equipment - aimed at limiting China's access to frontier AI capabilities - remain in place, with Greer saying they were not a major discussion at the talks.

Beijing continues to push for greater access to advanced technologies, while criticising what it sees as efforts to constrain its industrial development.

Artificial intelligence (AI) was expected to be a big part of conversations but there was no mention of it in readouts from the first day of the summit.

Bessent said that delegations are discussing AI guardrails at the summit, adding that it was "of utmost importance" that the US maintain its lead over China in AI.

"What we don't want to do is stifle innovation. So our responsibility is to come up with the highest performance calculus where we can get ⁠the most innovation and the highest level of safety," Bessent said.

Trump also entered the talks hoping for Chinese cooperation on the Iran conflict and oil market stability.

"[Xi would] like to see the Hormuz Strait open, and said 'if I can be of any help whatsoever, I would like to help,'" Trump told Fox News.

The Chinese foreign ministry on Friday released a statement calling for "a comprehensive and lasting ceasefire".

"Shipping lanes should be reopened as soon as possible in response to the calls of the international community," it added.

Oil price volatility and repeated disruptions to supply routes have increased China's import costs and pushed up prices across the world.

Trump has said that China could use its influence to encourage Iran to stabilise flows through the Strait of Hormuz, a key global energy artery.

Chinese readouts indicated the Middle East was discussed, though again, details were limited.

At the state banquet held for Trump in Beijing on Thursday evening, the US president invited Xi to the White House on ‌24 September.

Further discussions between the two sides are expected ahead of that summit, with the hope that the world's two biggest economies can deliver a major breakthough on trade that proved elusive this time around.

Source: bbc.com

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https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/clypj01189lo

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CIA chief delivers message from Trump to Cuba

15 May, 2026

CIA Director John Ratcliffe has paid a rare visit to Havana to deliver a message from US President Donald Trump to the Cuban leadership amid a US-imposed fuel blockade of the island.

According to Reuters, it was the first time a CIA chief has visited Cuba since the Communist Revolution in the 1950s.

Cuba’s Interior Ministry disclosed the previously unannounced trip on Thursday. The CIA later acknowledged the visit by posting photos on X showing Ratcliffe meeting officials in Havana.

Ratcliffe delivered “Trump’s message that the United States is prepared to seriously engage on economic and security issues, but only if Cuba makes fundamental changes,” an unnamed CIA official told Reuters.

The official added that the sides discussed “intelligence cooperation, economic stability, and security issues, all against the backdrop that Cuba can no longer be a safe haven for adversaries in the Western Hemisphere.”

The US imposed a blockade on oil shipments to Cuba in January, causing widespread fuel shortages and blackouts. Since then, only a single Russian tanker has delivered oil to the island, arriving in March. Cuban Energy Minister Vicente de la O Levy warned on Thursday that the country’s fuel reserves have been exhausted.

The US has demanded that Cuba cut ties with Russia, China, Iran, and pro-Palestinian armed groups. Last month, a US delegation visiting Havana reportedly urged Cuba to transition from socialism to a market-based economy and open the country to foreign investment.

Cuba has said that, despite the economic hardship, the military is prepared to resist a potential invasion. President Miguel Diaz-Canel said on Thursday that Cuba is willing to consider a US State Department proposal for $100 million in humanitarian aid.

He described the offer as “inconsistent and paradoxical,” adding that the blockade amounts to “collective punishment imposed systematically and ruthlessly” on the Cuban people.

Source: rt.com

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Africa

 

Mali's army carries out overnight strikes on rebel-held city of Kidal

15 May 2026

Mali’s army reportedly carried out several strikes overnight Wednesday to Thursday on the town of Kidal in the desert region in the north of the country.

It has been under the control of Tuareg rebels and their allies from the JNIM jihadist group since their large-scale coordinated attacks across the country in late April.

Their rare alliance enabled a rapid campaign that saw several strategic military bases overrun across northern Mali.

Residents have told an AFP journalist they heard at least four explosions in Kidal on Wednesday night which caused material damage.

One strike reportedly hit a house near a former market, destroying it, while another struck the governor’s compound.

A Malian army officer says the armed forces are targeting specific objectives and warned the strikes will be intensifying in the coming days.

Witnesses say Kidal was unusually calm on Thursday morning with very little traffic on the roads.

The strategic town served as an unofficial headquarters of the Tuareg Azawad Liberation Front coalition for more than a decade

It was captured by Mali's army in late 2023 with the help of Russian mercenaries.

Source: africanews.com

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https://www.africanews.com/2026/05/14/malis-army-carries-out-overnight-strikes-on-rebel-held-city-of-kidal/

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Man fatally stabbed in mosque during prayers in Lamu county

15 May 2026

Police are investigating the fatal stabbing of a 33-year-old man following a confrontation inside a mosque during midday prayers in Faza, Lamu county.

The deceased, identified as Khalid Maka, died after he was allegedly attacked inside Faza Jamia Mosque on Wednesday May 13 during Thuhur prayers, police and witnesses said.

According to police, a scuffle broke out after two men allegedly attempted to force the deceased out of the mosque over a dispute linked to the management of the facility.

Investigators said one of the suspects, allegedly held the deceased from behind while a second suspect, allegedly stabbed him on the right side of the neck, inflicting deep wounds near the collar bone and on the left wrist.

The victim was rushed to Faza Sub County Hospital where he was pronounced dead on arrival.

Police officers from Faza police station later arrested the two suspects. Detectives handling the murder said one of the suspects was found hiding in his bathroom allegedly attempting to dispose of the suspected murder weapon in a toilet.

Detectives recovered the weapon together with blood-stained clothes he was reportedly trying to wash.

The second suspect was arrested while hiding inside his bedroom, police added.

Authorities said the motive of the attack is believed to be disagreements over the management of Faza Jamia Mosque.

A postmortem examination was conducted before the body was released to family members for burial.

The two were detained pending arraignment, police said.

Meanwhile, police in Kaloleni Sub-county, Kilifi county, are investigating a sudden death incident after the body of an unidentified middle-aged man was found outside a condemned house in Sina Mola village.

According to police, the incident was reported on Wednesday morning, prompting officers from Mariakani police station to visit the scene.

Police confirmed finding the lifeless body of the man lying outside the abandoned structure.

Residents told investigators that the deceased had recently arrived in the village and was believed to have been suffering from mental illness.

The scene was processed and documented before the body was moved to Kilifi Sub County Hospital mortuary awaiting identification and postmortem examination to establish the cause of death.

Elsewhere in Lari, Kiambu county, the body of a man who had been reported missing was recovered from Thiririka River. Police said John Wabara, 39, was reported missing on May 4.

The body was decomposed when it was recovered on May 13 evening and moved to the local mortuary for other procedures.

In Amukura area, Busia county, a body of a man was found on river Walachi after a suspected drowning incident.

The body was naked and trapped on the river bank when it was found, police said of the Wednesday incident.

The body had no visible injuries when it was found and moved to the mortuary pending other procedures.

Source: the-star.co.ke

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https://www.the-star.co.ke/news/2026-05-15-man-fatally-stabbed-in-mosque-during-prayers

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Nobel winner Mukwege warns of predatory US deal for DR Congo

15 May 2026

A US-brokered peace deal in the DR Congo is more focused on plundering the country's resources than offering security, Nobel Peace Prize-winning Congolese doctor Denis Mukwege has told AFP.

The eastern Democratic Republic of Congo has been riven by decades of conflict with multiple armed groups fighting over its mineral-rich territory, including the Rwanda-backed M23 that seized swathes of the region last year.

Washington brokered a peace deal between the DRC and Rwanda in December aimed at ending the long-running conflict on the insistence of US President Donald Trump.

The deal included an economic component aiming to secure access to the DRC's vast reserves of strategic minerals for US businesses.

However, the agreement failed to halt clashes in the east.

Mukwege won the 2018 Nobel prize in recognition of his decades of work as a surgeon treating female survivors of sexual violence in the eastern DRC.

Speaking to AFP on a visit to the Kenyan capital, Nairobi, on Wednesday, Mukwege said the US peace deal "could be described as transactional at the outset".

"But today it looks more like predation. We give, but in return we don't receive the desired security," he said.

"It is quite clear that, as far as minerals are concerned, shipments are already leaving, but in return we are not receiving the security we need," he added.

French President Emmanuel Macron -- who also visited Nairobi this week to co-host a two-day France-Africa summit -- insisted that European former colonial powers were not "the predators of this century", directing criticism instead at China.

While Mukwege acknowledged that the African continent "needs to open up to the world when it comes to business", he cautioned that such deals must be fair otherwise they would harm Africans.

"Unfortunately, sometimes these deals are struck with a focus on individual power rather than the common good. And that is where Africans lose out," he said.

"That is simply taking Africa back to the era of slavery and colonisation, and that is unacceptable."

'Hostage'

Since running unsuccessfully for the presidency in 2023, Mukwege has become a prominent opposition figure.

The surgeon told AFP that it was "not acceptable" that President Felix Tshisekedi was eying constitutional changes to enable him to stand for a third term in office.

"It would simply be an attempt to hold the population hostage and seize power by force," Mukwege said.

He warned that the suggestion of a referendum to pass the constitutional changes would likely exclude some 12 million people in the east in areas that are only loosely under the government's control.

This, he warned, could lead to a possible "balkanisation" of the vast central African country.

Source: africanews.com

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https://www.africanews.com/2026/05/14/nobel-winner-mukwege-warns-of-predatory-us-deal-for-dr-congo/

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South Africa: Opposition parties pile pressure on Ramaphosa

15 May 2026

Members of South African opposition parties walk out of a question and answer session by President Cyril Ramaphosa, who is facing claims of misconduct by hiding from police and tax authorities a 2020 break-in at one of his homes, and theft of large sums of foreign currency.

Ramaphosa denies wrongdoing in the scandal, but parliament is planning impeachment proceedings.

The MK party raised a point of order arguing that parliament should not be continuing under this backdrop and demands Ramaphosa quits - which he says he will not do.

The Constitutional Court last week said that, according to procedure, the 2022 independent report should have been referred to an impeachment committee for further investigation.

Impeaching the leader of Africa's top economy would require the support of at least two-thirds of lawmakers in the 400-member Parliament, according to the Constitution.

The multi-party impeachment committee still needs to conduct an investigation before any move to hold an impeachment vote. No time frame was given for that in Monday's Parliament statement.

Source: africanews.com

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https://www.africanews.com/2026/05/14/south-africa-opposition-parties-pile-pressure-on-ramaphosa/

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‘They Will Vote Me Out’ – Tinubu Speaks On Potentials Of Nigerian Youths

May 15, 2026

President Bola Tinubu has emphasized the need to properly harness the potential of youths in Nigeria and across the African continent.

Speaking on Thursday during a panel session on the sidelines of the 13th Africa CEO Forum in Rwanda, the Nigerian leader stressed that as a politician, if he doesn’t manage the potential of the youths, and get them ready to take advantage of available opportunities, they can vote him out.

Naija News reports that Tinubu described Nigerian youths as dynamic, restless and not ready to accept any excuses.

He stressed the need for the government to provide an enabling environment for growth, noting that politicians must remain accountable to the people.

In his words, “We have a very dynamic youthful population, restless and not ready to accept any excuses. I am a politician, if I don’t prepare them for that (opportunities), they will vote me out.”

Meanwhile, President Tinubu has urged aspirants and members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) to conduct themselves peacefully as the party begins its nationwide primary elections ahead of the 2027 general elections.

In a statement he personally signed on Thursday, Tinubu described the commencement of the APC primaries as a historic moment for the ruling party, noting that the exercise marks the party’s fourth election cycle since its formation.

The President said the APC was founded on the principles of progressive politics, consensus democracy, personal sacrifice and devotion to party unity.

“We founded the All Progressives Congress on the firm principles of progressive politics, consensus democracy, and personal devotion and sacrifice. This principle of selflessness and devotion has seen us go through each election cycle and come out firmer together,” he stated.

Tinubu acknowledged ongoing efforts by party leaders to produce consensus candidates in line with the Electoral Act and the APC constitution.

According to him, the consensus arrangement remains a commendable option capable of reducing rancour and internal division within the party.

“I note the impressive progress made in this regard and encourage fellow party members to make the most of this window to ensure a seamless process and a more unified party,” the President said.

He, however, stressed that where consensus fails, aspirants should approach the primaries with sportsmanship and avoid conduct capable of threatening party unity.

Source: naijanews.com

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https://www.naijanews.com/2026/05/15/tinubu-speaks-on-nigerian-youths/

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Why I Won’t Contest Senate Seat Despite Pressure – Zulum

May 15, 2026

Borno State Governor, Babagana Umara Zulum, has revealed that he turned down calls from supporters, friends and family members urging him to contest for a Senate seat ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Naija News reports that the governor made this known during a critical stakeholders meeting of the All Progressives Congress (APC) held in Maiduguri before the House of Representatives primary election scheduled for Thursday.

Zulum said he decided not to pursue personal political ambition because he wanted peace and unity within the party. According to him, maintaining harmony among party members was more important than joining the Senate race.

“Despite the overwhelming pressure from supporters and people close to me, I chose the party unity and cohesion over my personal ambition. I told them that I’m not vying for the Senate to maintain cordial relationships and allow peace to reign,” he said

The governor also appealed to aspirants contesting for positions under the APC to follow the path of understanding and cooperation.

He pushed for more consultations among party leaders and members so that consensus candidates could emerge instead of allowing divisions within the party.

Zulum explained that although he supports consensus arrangements, nobody would be forced on any constituency because members still have the right to participate in democratic processes.

He added that where agreements fail, the party should allow primary elections to take place.

Source: naijanews.com

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https://www.naijanews.com/2026/05/15/contest-senate-seat-despite-pressure-zulum/

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