Religion Enters The Digital Space: Hindus vs Muslims - QR Codes For Waqf Bill Fight Go Religious
New Age Islam News Bureau
18 Sep 2024
· Religion Enters The Digital Space: Hindus vs Muslims - QR Codes For Waqf Bill Fight Go Religious
· Islam Has No Relation With Shrine Attackers, Aalim, Ulema Of Bangladesh Do Not Support Vandalism On Shrines
· The UN Will Vote On A Palestinian Resolution Demanding Israel End Its Occupation
· Islamophobic VideoOf Cardiff Mosque, Shared Online By The Co-Leader Of Britain First, Condemned
· One Should Not Abuse Opponents If Allah Almighty Gives Strength And Honour: CM Maryam
India
· ‘RSS Has Made Muslims Their Target Like Hitler Made Jews,’ ‘India Is Now Open-Air Prison’: Senior Congress Leader
· Israel Envoy Slams Khamenei Remarks On Muslims In India
· No Demolition Without Our Permission For Two Weeks, Says SC While Hearing Plea Against ‘Bulldozer Justice’
· Your Vote For INDIA Bloc Will Ensure Return Of Your Rights: Rahul Gandhi To People Of Jammu And Kashmir
· Shahi Idgah dispute: SC asks Muslim side to clarify if appeal to be filed before HC's division bench
· We should not have fought Jammu and Kashmir elections: Jamaat-e-Islami ex-amir Sheikh Ghulam
-------
South Asia
· Operations Resume at Afghan Embassy in Oman Now Under Islamic Emirate
· Charmonai Pir for building discrimination-free state with ideals of Islam
· Mullah Khairullah Engages Afghans in Moscow, Emphasizes National Progress and Unity
· Herat Coordination Meeting Addresses Media Support and Misinformation Mitigation
-------
Mideast
· Israel Police arrest Imam from Shuafat camp for terror incitement, fundraising for weapons
· Israeli military says four soldiers killed in southern Gaza
· Israel planted explosives in Hezbollah’s Taiwan-made pagers, sources say
· Iranian president pledges deeper ties with Moscow, state media says
· Israel has a long history of pulling off complex attacks like the exploding pagers
· WHO chief says Israel tanks fired on Gaza aid convoy
· Jordan armed forces downs drone attempting to cross Jordanian territory
· Islamist groups escalate retaliatory attacks on Burkina Faso civilians, HRW says
-------
Europe
· Empty Harwich Dance Studio To Be Transformed Into Mosque And Community Centre
· Medvedev proposes list of ‘Russia’s enemies’
-------
Pakistan
· PM Shehbaz Calls For Ending Trend Of Abusive Language, Hate Speech
· Imran Khan's Long List Of Crimes Makes Constitutional Amendment Irrelevant For Him: Khawaja Asif
· Tribunal nullifies Balochistan minister’s victory
· Pakistan, US explore ways to bolster partnership
· On Eid-i-Miladun Nabi, national leaders urge justice, tolerance to solve prevailing issues
-------
Arab World
· Saudi Arabia Ranks Top In Region, 4th Globally On UN’s Digital Government Services Index
· Saudi Arabia’s Commander of Joint Forces visits officers wounded in Yemen operation
· Madinah workshop explores AI’s role in farms of the future
· Authorities warn of thunderstorms, hail across Saudi Arabia until Sunday
· Saudi crown prince to deliver annual royal address at Shoura Council on Wednesday
· Course bids to enhance hiking safety at Saudi royal reserve
-------
North America
· Rights Groups Condemn US Senator For Extremism Allegation Against Muslim Advocate
· CAIR-Austin Applauds Official Listing of First Muslim Polling Location in Williamson County
· Tomgram: Juan Cole, A Centrist Muslim Alliance Against an Extremist Israel?
· Whistleblower testifies Titan sub tragedy was 'inevitable'
· Biden calls on Sudan’s warring parties to re-engage in negotiations
-------
Africa
· Situation Under Control Following Bamako Attack By Al-Qaida Affiliate
· Mosque attack: Kano presents four witnesses to testify against arsonist
· ‘No More Excuses’ – TY Danjuma Charges CDS Musa To End Banditry, Violence
· Dangote refinery begins gasoline sales to Nigeria's domestic market
-------
Southeast Asia
· Muhyiddin: Govt Mou Prohibits Discrimination, So Perikatan Mps Can’t Challenge Any LGBT-Friendly Policies If We Agree To It
· Ustaz pleads not guilty to charge of molesting practical teacher
· Lawyer claims Najib denied fair trial; alleges MACC’s 1MDB probe was shoddy, biased and incomplete
· PJ court back in media spotlight as trial of Zayn Rayyan’s parents resumes
Compiled by New Age Islam News Bureau
URL: https://www.newageislam.com/islamic-world-news/religion-qr-code-waqf-digital/d/133227
--------
Religion Enters The Digital Space: Hindus vs Muslims - QR Codes For Waqf Bill Fight Go Religious
By: Anindya Banerjee
SEPTEMBER 18, 2024,
After being associated with certain colours and culinary spreads, religion now seems to have entered the digital space as well where two QR codes — one championed by the Hindus and another by Muslims — quietly took India by surprise as a Joint Parliamentary Committee sought suggestions from the public on the Waqf Bill that sparked off animated debates.
The Waqf (Amendment) Bill was introduced in Lok Sabha last month and was referred to a Joint Committee of Parliament for further examination after opposition parties raised strong objections to certain provisions of the draft law. Ever since the JPC sought public suggestion, a large Muslim section started sending emails to the committee objecting to certain provisions. To make it simple, they created a QR code scanning which will lead to a draft mail that is already articulated opposing the bill. One just needs to press the send button. This effort got a massive push during Friday prayers in mosques where, in many instances, fear-mongering started through loudspeakers.
Seeing the response, the Hindu side did not sit idle. They, too, created a QR code scanning which a similar draft mail that will be ready with a different argument, batting for the bill. During the recent Ganesh Chaturthi, small posters were put up on many canopies and tents meant for Ganesha Puja, to reach out to a larger section, arguing why they should back the bill.
While Hyderabad MP Asaduddin Owaisi urged his community to oppose the amendment tooth and nail describing it as ‘oppressive and unconstitutional’, BJP’s hardline MLA from Goshamahal in Telangana, T Raja Singh, was seen urging the Hindu community to equally back the Bill at a Ganesha Puja.
The QR code of the Muslim side is being advertised in the name of the All India Muslim Personal Law Board as well as functionaries of Owaisi’s All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) party. A scan will lead to an Urdu version of the letter on the letterhead of AIMPLB.
The QR code of the Hindu side is being advertised by individuals who feel strongly about it, by organisations like Prachyam among others. Scanning the Hindu side’s QR code will lead to a long mail that finally makes three demands: “We demand equality. We demand justice. We demand that 1. The Waqf Act be amended/repealed immediately. 2. All the properties held by the Waqf Boards across the country be taken over by the Government. 3. High-level committees be set up at the National and State levels to probe every such property so that it can be returned to their rightful heirs.” Their mail calls the act in its present form “draconian” citing an example of how “an entirely Hindu village in Tiruchendurai, Tamil Nadu, which includes an over 1500-year-old Hindu temple that has been “declared as Waqf property”.
The JPC, formed to review the Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2024, has so far received around 84 lakh suggestions via email from across India. But clearly, the battle lines have been drawn over QR codes as the JPC is scheduled for its next meeting for three days between September 18 and 20. On September 19, the JPC will hear the opinions of stakeholders including Prof Faizan Mustafa, Vice Chancellor of Chanakya National Law University, Patna; Pasamanda Muslim Mahaaz; and the All India Muslim Personal Law Board. On September 20, the last day of this 3-day hearing, the committee will hear inputs from the All India Sajjadanashin Council, Ajmer, Muslim Rashtriya Manch — an RSS affiliate and Delhi-based Bharat First, say sources.
Source:news18.com
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://www.news18.com/india/hindus-vs-muslims-qr-codes-for-waqf-bill-fight-go-religious-9054629.html
---------
Islam Has No Relation With Shrine Attackers, Aalim, Ulema Of Bangladesh Do Not Support Vandalism On Shrines
File Photo/ Poet, writer and philosopher Farhad Mazhar
------
17 Sep 2024,
DHAKA, Sept 17, 2024 (BSS) - Poet, writer and philosopher Farhad Mazhar today said Islam has no relation with the perpetrators who are carrying out attacks on shrines as Alem-Olamas of the country do not support vandalism on shrines.
"Those who are attacking shrines and temples should be identified....If anyone tries to make Islam controversial, people will put up resistance against them," he told a mass resistance march against fascist attacks on shrines in front of High Court Mazar in the city.
Mentioning that students of the country have broken the wall of discrimination, he said, "This trend should be continued . . . A new constitution should be formulated for the sake of the country."
Urging all to be united under the leadership of youths against fascism, Farhad Majhar said, "Fight against fascism has not finished yet. So, we will have to remain alert."
"A vested quarter is trying to oust the incumbent government. If any evil force tries to thwart the government, the mass people and students will resist them," he added.
hief coordinator of Ganosamhati Andolon Zonayed Saki, journalist Salah Uddin Shuvro, writer Ehsan Mahmood, organizer Baki Billah, artists Amal Akash, Bithi Ghosh and Oruf Rahi, among others, spoke at the event.
Organizer of the event, Mahtab Uddin Mahtab conducted it.
aki said, "A group of people is intentionally attacking shrines and important state installations. It is not good for religion and the state. We should be united against the attackers."
A new journey has started in the country through the uprising of our students. Everyone will live freely in the country. This is the right of everyone," he added.
I want to see a new beginning from the incumbent government where there will be no discrimination," he added.
t the protest rally, they also demanded of stern actions against the people attacking shrines and temples across the country, financial assistance for injured people and the families of people killed while trying to prevent attacks and measures to protect temples and shrines.
Later, they submitted a memorandum to the home adviser.
Source:bssnews.net
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://www.bssnews.net/news/210140
---------
The UN Will Vote On A Palestinian Resolution Demanding Israel End Its Occupation
The results of a vote on a resolution for the UN Security Council to reconsider and support the full membership of Palestine into the United Nations is displayed during a special session of the UN General Assembly, at UN headquarters in New York City on May 10, 2024 [CHARLY TRIBALLEAU/AFP via Getty Images]
-------
September 18, 2024
UNITED NATIONS: The UN General Assembly will vote Wednesday on a Palestinian resolution demanding that Israel end its “unlawful presence” in Gaza and the occupied West Bank within a year, withdraw its military forces and evacuate all settlers.
The resolution is being put to a vote in the 193-member assembly as Israel’s war against Hamas in Gaza approaches its first anniversary and as violence in the West Bank reaches new highs. The war was triggered by Hamas attacks in southern Israel on Oct. 7.
Riyad Mansour, the Palestinian UN ambassador, opened the assembly meeting Tuesday by saying Palestinians face an “existential threat” and claiming Israel has held them “in shackles.” He demanded an end to Israel’s decades-long occupation and for Palestinians to be able to return home to live in peace and freedom.
Israel’s ambassador to the UN, Danny Danon, urged member nations to reject the resolution, describing it as “an attempt to destroy Israel through diplomatic terrorism” that never mentions Hamas’ atrocities and “ignores the truth, twists the facts and replaces reality with fiction.”
“Instead of a resolution condemning the rape and massacre committed by Hamas on Oct. 7, we gather here to watch the Palestinians’ UN circus — a circus where evil is righteous, war is peace, murder is justified and terror is applauded,” he said.
If adopted, the resolution would not be legally binding, but the extent of its support would reflect world opinion. There are no vetoes in the General Assembly, unlike in the 15-member Security Council.
The resolution is a response to a ruling by the top United Nations court in July that said Israel’s presence in the Palestinian territories is unlawful and must end.
In the sweeping condemnation of Israel’s rule over the lands it captured during the 1967 war, the International Court of Justice said Israel had no right to sovereignty over the Palestinian territories and was violating international laws against acquiring the lands by force.
The court’s opinion also is not legally binding. Nonetheless, the Palestinians drafted the resolution to try to implement the ruling, saying Israel’s “abuse of its status as the occupying power” renders its “presence in the occupied Palestinian territory unlawful.”
Mansour stressed that any country that thinks the Palestinian people “will accept a life of servitude” or that claims peace is possible without a just solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict is “not being realistic.”
The solution remains an independent Palestinian state based on the 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital, living side by side in peace and security with Israel, he said.
US Ambassador to the UN Linda Thomas Greenfield told reporters that the resolution has “a significant number of flaws,” saying it goes beyond the ICJ ruling. It also doesn’t recognize that “Hamas is a terrorist organization” in control of Gaza and that Israel has a right to defend itself, she said.
“In our view, the resolution does not bring about tangible benefits across the board for the Palestinian people,” Thomas-Greenfield said. “I think it could complicate the situation on the ground, complicate what we’re trying to do to end the conflict, and I think it impedes reinvigorating steps toward a two-state solution.”
The resolution calls for Israel to pay reparations to Palestinians for the damage caused by its occupation and urges countries to take steps to prevent trade or investments that maintain Israel’s presence in the territories.
It also demands that Israel be held accountable for any violations of international law, that sanctions be imposed on those responsible for maintaining Israel’s presence in the territories, and for countries to halt arms exports to Israel if they’re suspected of being used there.
Mansour said an initial Palestinian draft demanded Israel end its occupation within six months but that it was revised in response to concerns of some countries to increase the time frame to within a year.
Most likely, he said, Israel won’t pay attention to the resolution.
Source:arabnews.com
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://www.arabnews.com/node/2571833/middle-east
-----
Islamophobic VideoOf Cardiff Mosque, Shared Online By The Co-Leader Of Britain First, Condemned
A Muslim woman stands in front of An-Nur Mosque, Timor-Leste's largest, in Dili.
Photo:UN/ Martine Perret
------
17 Sep 2024
The Muslim Council of Wales and Senedd politicians have condemned an Islamophobic social media post about a Cardiff mosque shared online by the co-leader of Britain First.
Paul Golding posted the video to X, formerly Twitter, of Alice Street in Butetown as the Call to Prayer was played from a tannoy outside the South Wales Islamic Centre.
The announcement recited in Arabic calls worshippers to the mosque for each of the five daily ritual prayers.
Sharing the video, Mr Golding wrote: “Islamic chants being blasted at full volume from a mosque in Cardiff, the capital of Wales. This is unacceptable.
“This is Britain, not Saudi Arabia. We are a Christian nation.”
The video went viral racking up millions of views and attracting a string of racist comments.
Butetown is home to one of the longest established Muslim communities in the UK after groups of Yemeni and Somali seafarers made their home there in the mid-1800’s.
The Muslim Council of Wales branded Mr Golding as a “divisive fringe voice” who was attempting to rewrite Cardiff’s rich multicultural history.
Secretary General, Dr Abdul Azim Ahmed, said: “Wales has one of the oldest Muslim communities in Britain, and the Cardiff docks is home to a Muslim community that dates back over a century. Muslims helped make Cardiff the capital city that it is today. Wales is a nation of many faiths, and Islam is a Welsh religion.
“Divisive and fringe voices are seeking to re-write history and undermine our common belonging to one another here in Wales and the United Kingdom. We must always reject their calls to hatred.”
St Mary’s Church – which is located just minutes from the mosque – similarly hit out at Mr Golding for his offensive comments.
In an X post, they said: “Strange that this person makes this comment from a Christian perspective. Maybe he should speak to actual Christians who live just a few mins from this mosque where we have many friends with whom we work to make our community strong and loving. This is Cardiff. This is Butetown.”
Tory Darren Millar who is the Chair of the Senedd’s Cross Party Group on Faith also slammed the anti-migrant party leader for his attack on Cardiff’s Muslim community.
He said: “Relationships between Wales’ Muslim and other faith communities are warm and friendly. No matter how hard people like Mr Golding try to stoke division, we will continue to resist all attempts to promote hate and misunderstanding.”
Mr Golding, who hails from Kent, co-founded Britain First in 2011 following a stint as a British National Party councillor.
In 2016, he was banned from entering mosques in Wales and England but was later jailed after breaching the injunction having attempted to enter a mosque in Cardiff.
Jailed
Two years later both he and Britain First’s deputy leader Jayda Fransen were jailed for harrassement after targeting religious minorities, particularly Muslims.
In 2020, he was found guilty under the Terrorism Act after he refused police access to his phone at Heathrow when he returned from a political trip to Russia.
Plaid Cymru spokesperson for Social Justice and Early Years, Sioned Williams branded Mr Golding’s attack on the Muslim faith “completely unacceptable”.
She said: “Such Islamophobia has no place in Wales. We are a proud multicultural and multifaith nation that has been built on tolerance and celebrating diversity.
“In the face of the far right’s threat to the peaceful and inclusive nature of our communities, it is important that we stand together to call out this type of racist hate.”
Source:nation.cymru
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://nation.cymru/news/islamophobic-social-media-video-of-cardiff-mosque-condemned/
---------
One Should Not Abuse Opponents If Allah Almighty Gives Strength And Honour: CM Maryam
Maryam Nawaz, Pakistan Punjab CM
------
September 17, 2024
LAHORE - Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif on Monday emphasized the importance of nurturing love for the Holy Prophet (SAW) from a young age. In her speech at the Provincial Seerat-ul-Nabi Conference, she encouraged parents, particularly mothers, to share stories of Holy Prophet’s(PBUH) life with their children before bedtime. She underscored that such love is best fostered in the nurturing environment of the home. Reflecting on her own family’s deep devotion, she noted that her late mother and grandfather were ardent admirers of the Holy Prophet (SAW), and that the month of Rabi-ul-Awwal is celebrated in her family with great reverence. She shared that Naat-recitation has been a cherished tradition in her household since her childhood. The chief minister highlighted that true love for the Holy Prophet (SAW) and recitation of His Naat should not be merely a superficial act but should stem from genuine character and demeanor. She referenced a verse from the Holy Quran, which exalts the Holy Prophet’s(PBUH) mention, as evidence of his esteemed status. She also spoke about the Holy Prophet’s (SAW) Sermon of ‘Hajjat-ul-Wida’, which she described as the foundational document for human rights, highlighting Holy Prophet’s(PBUH) teachings on respect and equality. This sermon, she explained, outlines fundamental human rights and emphasizes the protection of vulnerable groups, including women.The CM lamented the societal attitude towards women, noting that while Islam grants women unparalleled rights and respect, societal practices often fall short. She criticized the stigma associated with women returning to their families after a failed marriage, contrasting it with the respect and support that should be afforded to them. Reflecting on her personal experiences, she mentioned the challenges faced by women in accessing education, despite the Holy Prophet’s (SAW) encouragement to seek knowledge even from afar. She pointed out that current disparities in educational opportunities between boys and girls are contrary to Islamic teachings. The chief minister Sharif also addressed the issue of minority safety, urging that the teachings of the Holy Prophet (SAW) advocate for respect and non-criticism of others’ faiths. She emphasized that love, rather than violence, is the key to winning hearts and advancing Islamic principles. Turning to governance, she acknowledged the heavy responsibility of leading Punjab, with a population of 150 million, and expressed her commitment to serving the people with integrity. She expressed concern over issues such as inadequate access to medicine and basic necessities, and vowed to hold herself accountable to Allah Almighty. “I have the responsibility of the entire province of Punjab with 15 crore people. If no one gets medicine, cheap bread and flour, and no cleanliness, I wonder what answer I will give to Allah Almighty,” she observed and prayed,”May Allah Ta’ala make my intention pure and true to serve His creation.
Source:nation.com.pk
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://www.nation.com.pk/17-Sep-2024/one-should-not-abuse-opponents-if-allah-almighty-gives-strength-and-honor-cm-maryam
---------
India
‘RSS Has Made Muslims Their Target Like Hitler Made Jews,’ ‘India Is Now Open-Air Prison’: Senior Congress Leader
18 Sep 2024,
Senior Congress leader Digvijaya Singh on Tuesday criticized the legal system, asserting that bail becomes an exception for Muslims, while joining the families of jailed activists, including former JNU research scholar Umar Khalid, in calling for their release.
Singh referenced a recent Supreme Court observation that ‘bail is the rule and jail is the exception.’
Speaking at a panel discussion organized by the Association for Protection of Civil Rights (APCR) to mark four years since the arrest of several activists linked to the anti-CAA-NRC protests of 2019-20, Singh also condemned the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), PTI reported.
He claimed that the RSS had targeted Muslims in India in a manner reminiscent of the persecution of Jews under Hitler’s regime in Germany.
While expressing solidarity with the jailed activists, Singh said he comes from an area where the RSS is referred to as a “nursery”.
“I have always known them closely. They believe neither in democracy nor in the Constitution. The way Hitler made Jews his target, they have made Muslims their target... The way the ideology has infiltrated at every level, it is dangerous for democracy,” he said.
“The RSS is an unregistered body, it has no membership, no account. If someone is caught, they refuse to accept him as their member, as they did when Nathuram Godse was arrested. They've have penetrated everywhere in the system... We need to do a serious introspection,” he said.
“Bail is a rule, and jail is an exception, then what is the reason that for Muslims, bail becomes an exception?” he asked.
Umar Khalid's father SQR Ilyas, meanwhile, raised concerns over stringent laws such as the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act under which Khalid and others have been arrested.
“Whether it is Umar, or Gulfisha or those arrested in the Bhima Koregaon case... These draconian laws framed inside Parliament are meant to curb terror, but they are used against common people. The BJP brought POTA, the Congress scrapped it, but then brought back all its provisions under the UAPA,” Ilyas said.
He questioned why action is not taken against police officials concerned when a person is found to be innocent after years of trial. He also mocked the use of names like “Alpha, Beta, Gamma, Delta” for witnesses being used by Delhi Police in the case.
Communist Party of India (Marxist-Leninist) Liberation General Secretary Dipankar Bhattacharya said the activists who continue to be in jails will one day be seen as “warriors of democracy”.
“Those arrested during the Emergency were seen as the warriors of democracy, it is the same case today,” he said.
He also said that the anti-CAA/NRC protests of Shaheen Bagh was not just a protest against the citizenship law, but an “equal citizenship movement”.
“The country has become like an open air prison,” he said.
Nargis Saifi, the wife on jailed activist Khalid Saifi, also questioned the “selective application” of the “bail is the rule, jail is the exception” principle and said her children are growing up without a father.
“Khalid raised his voice for his rights, so he was jailed. He has not been given bail even after four-and-a-half years, while those charged for rape, corruption, are being let out on bail,” she said.
Shakra Begum, the mother of Gulfisha Fatima—an activist arrested for alleged conspiracy in the Delhi riots—broke down and admitted she lacked the courage to speak.
Meanwhile, Noorjahan, the mother of another jailed activist, Athar Khan, revealed that she has been unable to communicate with her son via video call for a year and a half.
"Someone did a hunger strike in the jail, and my son was blamed for it. They have not allowed us video calls for a year and half. His grandmothers are old, they can't visit him in the jail. Now they can't see him on video calls either," she said.
Actor Swara Bhasker, stand-up comic Kunal Kamra, and Sanjay Rajoura also showed support for the jailed activists.
Sharjeel Imam, Khalid Saifi, Umar Khalid, and others face charges under the anti-terror law UAPA and various provisions of the Indian Penal Code. They are accused of being the "masterminds" behind the February 2020 riots in North-East Delhi, which resulted in 53 deaths and over 700 injuries.
The communal clashes in North-East Delhi erupted on February 24, 2020, as violence between supporters and opponents of the Citizenship (Amendment) Act escalated, leading to at least 53 deaths and around 200 injuries.
Source:livemint.com
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://www. livemint.com /politics/news/atishi-may-address-delhi-assembly-next-week-cmdesignate-11726630081033.html
---------
Israel envoy slams Khamenei remarks on Muslims in India
Sep 18, 2024,
NEW DELHI: Israel's ambassador to India Reuven Azar on Tuesday hit out at Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei for his remarks on Muslims in India.
"You are a killer and oppressor of your own people. Muslims in Israel, India and all democracies enjoy freedom, which is denied in Iran. I wish the people of Iran will be free soon," said Azar.
Speaking on the occasion of the Prophet's birthday, Khamenei had clubbed India with Gaza while talking about Muslim sufferings across the world. India had strongly deplored the remarks.
Source:indiatimes.com
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/israel-envoy-slams-khamenei-remarks-on-muslims-in-india/articleshow/113437258.cms
---------
No demolition without our permission for two weeks, says SC while hearing plea against ‘bulldozer justice’
Written by Ananthakrishnan G , Hamza Khan
September 18, 2024
bulldozer justice, Supreme Court, demolition stay, Constitution of India, supreme court, illegal demolition, UP MP bulldozer justice, demolitions in India, SC stay order on demolition, jahnangir puri, unlawful, legality, jamiat ulema, indian, October 1 hearing, stay on demolition, demolition drives, state govts bulldozer norms, idnian express news, explained,Hearing the matter on September 2, the SC had said it will lay down pan-India guidelines to take care of concerns in this regard. (Express Archives)
Notwithstanding objections, the Supreme Court in an interim order Tuesday directed that there should be no demolition without its permission of properties of persons just because they are accused of being involved in a crime.
“Till next date, there should be stay on demolition without leave of court,” a two-judge bench of Justices B R Gavai and K V Viswanathan said, adding that it was passing the direction in exercise of its powers under Article 142 of the Constitution.
The bench clarified that the direction will not apply to removal of unauthorised constructions on public streets, footpaths, railway lines or water bodies.
“Even if there is one instance of illegal demolition, it is against ethos of the Constitution,” remarked Justice Viswanathan as the bench was hearing pleas which alleged that some states were carrying out demolitions of houses of persons accused of involvement in crimes.
Solicitor General Tushar Mehta objected to the court passing such a direction, saying it will tie the hands of statutory authorities. He submitted that those whose constructions were demolished were already issued notices in the past and it so happened that they committed other crimes in the meanwhile, but it is not correct to say the demolition is linked to their involvement in the crime.
However, the bench questioned the timing and asked why the authorities suddenly acted in 2024 only. Fixing the matter for hearing next on October 1, it said that “heavens will not fall” if the demolitions are not carried out for two weeks.
“Stay your hands. Nothing will happen in 15 days,” said Justice Gavai. The judge said the court had already made it clear that it will not come in the way of removing unauthorised constructions, and added, “but the executive can’t be judge.”
Mehta also said there is an attempt to build a narrative that a specific community is being targeted but Justice Viswanathan said “outside noise (is) not influencing us” and “we won’t get into the question of… which community… at this point”.
Hearing the matter on September 2, the SC had said it will lay down pan-India guidelines to take care of concerns in this regard.
The main plea in the matter related to the demolition drive against unauthorised constructions in Delhi’s Jahangirpuri area soon after communal violence in 2022. The petitioners pointed out that many state governments were increasingly resorting to the use of bulldozers to demolish properties of people accused in crimes.
During the hearing, the Supreme Court also addressed the contentious issue of alleged illegal demolitions in Jaipur and Bhilwara, Rajasthan.
The petitioners raised concerns about the urgency to halt these demolitions following the Court’s previous order dated September 2.
Senior counsel C U Singh, appearing on behalf of the applicants, pointed out recent incidents in Bhilwara and Jaipur, where demolitions were carried out despite the Supreme Court’s directions. The petitioners alleged that these actions were taken in violation of the Court’s previous order, which had sought to prevent any unlawful
demolitions connected with criminal cases.
The State of Rajasthan, represented by Solicitor General of India Tushar Mehta and Additional Advocate General Shiv Mangal Sharma, opposed these claims. They argued that the applicants had not filed formal applications concerning these incidents and emphasised that such contentions could not be raised without proper procedure.
The Court permitted the applicants to file individual applications detailing their grievances regarding the alleged illegal demolitions.
Additionally, the Court referenced earlier matters involving similar allegations, of State of Uttar Pradesh, State of Madhya Pradhesh and in Rajasthan such as the Udaipur bulldozing case, where the applicant, Rashid Khan, alleged that his house was unlawfully demolished.
While the Court declined to provide interim relief in that case, it allowed Khan to intervene and raised the issue of broader national guidelines. The State of Rajasthan had justified its actions by claiming that Khan’s house was built illegally on encroached forest land, and proper legal procedures were followed.
Source:indianexpress.com
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://indianexpress.com/article/india/demolition-permission-sc-bulldozer-justice-9572483/
---------
Your vote for INDIA bloc will ensure return of your rights: Rahul Gandhi to people of Jammu and Kashmir
18.09.24
Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday urged people in Jammu and Kashmir to vote for the INDIA bloc, saying every such vote will ensure the return of their rights and bring employment.
Voting was underway on Wednesday for the assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir for the first time since the abrogation of Article 370. Twenty-four constituencies spread over seven districts of the Union territory are voting in the first phase.
"My brothers and sisters of Jammu and Kashmir, today the first phase of voting is being held. For the first time in the history of the country, a state's statehood has been taken away and it has been made a union territory - this is a violation of all your constitutional rights, an insult to Jammu and Kashmir," Gandhi said in a post in X.
"Your every vote for INDIA will ensure return of your rights, will bring employment, will make women strong, will bring you out of the 'era of injustice'...will make Jammu and Kashmir prosperous again," he said.
"Today, come out of your homes in the largest of numbers possible and exercise your democratic right - vote for INDIA," Gandhi added.
In a post in Hindi, Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra said, "My brothers and sisters of Jammu and Kashmir, in the last 10 years, things have only been taken away from you. Statehood was taken away, the right to vote and elect a government was taken away, the identity and self-respect of Jammu and Kashmir was taken away." "Today is the time to change that. Your every vote will strengthen Jammu and Kashmir and your rights. Use your right to vote in maximum numbers and make INDIA win with a huge majority," she said.
This is the maiden assembly election in Jammu and Kashmir as a Union territory. It is also the first poll to elect an assembly in the last 10 years.
The Centre abrogated Article 370, which gave special status to Jammu and Kashmir, and bifurcated the erstwhile state into two Union Territories -- Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh -- on August 5, 2019.
In the first phase of the three-phase polls, seven districts of Jammu and Kashmir located on either side of the Pir Panjal mountain range are voting to choose their representatives.
More than 23 lakh voters will decide the fate of 219 candidates, including 90 Independents, who are running for 24 assembly segments -- eight in three districts of the Jammu region and 16 in four districts of the Kashmir valley.
The other two phases are scheduled to be held on September 25 and October 1, while the votes will be counted on October 8.
Source:telegraphindia.com
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://www.telegraphindia.com/india/rahul-gandhi-to-people-of-jammu-and-kashmir-your-vote-for-india-bloc-will-ensure-return-of-your-rights/cid/2048727
-------
Shahi Idgah dispute: SC asks Muslim side to clarify if appeal to be filed before HC's division bench
New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Tuesday sought to know from the Muslim side if an appeal before a division bench of Allahabad High Court would lie against the single-judge order which rejected their petition challenging the maintainability of 18 suits related to the Krishna Janmabhoomi-Shahi Idgah dispute in Mathura.
Senior advocate Madhavi Divan and advocate Vishnu Shankar Jain, appearing for the Hindu side, asked the court to vacate the stay on the operation of the order, appointing court commissioner for survey of the Idgah complex. The court said that there are several legal issues in the matter which need detailed consideration and directed that all the pending matters on the dispute to be taken up together. One of the lawyer appearing for the Hindu parties raised preliminary objection on filing of appeal before the apex court saying that August 1 order is an appealable decision before the division bench of the high court. In view of the submission, the bench asked senior advocate Tasneem Ahmadi, appearing for the Committee of Management Trust, Shahi Masjid Idgah, to clarify if they can file appeal against the August 1 order of the high court before the division bench. "There are some judgements of this court which say you can do. If you can do so, then this appeal needs to be withdrawn," the bench said.
On August 1, 2024, the high court said that the trial in 18 suits relating to the Krishna Janmabhoomi-Shahi Idgah dispute could continue, as it dismissed the challenge by the mosque management committee.
On January 16, 2024, the Supreme Court had stayed the Allahabad High Court's December 14, 2023 order directing a survey of the Shahi Idgah mosque abutting the Krishna Janmabhoomi temple in Mathura.
The apex court is already seized of the matter related to transfer of jurisdiction. The high court had on May 26, 2023 decided to hear nearly 18 suits relating to Krishna Janmasthan-Shahi Idgah land dispute by transferring them to itself from various...
Source:deccanherald.com
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://www.deccanherald.com/india/shahi-idgah-dispute-supreme-court-asks-muslim-sides-to-apprise-it-whether-appeal-need-to-be-filed-in-hc-3194106
---------
We should not have fought Jammu and Kashmir elections: Jamaat-e-Islami ex-amir Sheikh Ghulam
Muzaffar Raina
18.09.24
The former chief of the banned Jamaat-e-Islami, Sheikh Ghulam Hassan, said his party should not have contested the Jammu and Kashmir elections, claiming he was "informed" by the leadership about the decision to fight but was "not consulted".
Taking digs at militancy, the senior leader of the outfit said it “does not solve any issue”, adding that the Jamaat constitution does not support any “underground activity”.
Jamaat is believed to have initially opposed militancy but later taken a lead role in it by forming the Hizbul Mujahideen, Kashmir’s oldest surviving militant group, in 1990.
In the initial years, all top Hizb leaders had a Jamaat background. The militant outfit even declared itself as the military arm of the Jamaat with the latter acknowledging it too. The group formally delinked itself from the Hizb in 1997 in the face of killings by counter-insurgency group Ikhwaan. The allegations of separation from the Hizb never subsided.
In an interview with The Telegraph, Hassan, 88, who headed Jamaat between 2006 and 2012 but is ailing and bed-ridden now, suggested that the decision to support militancy was taken under duress. He spoke in hushed tones because of his health.
“The Jamaat constitution is clear that there should be no underground activity. It (whatever happens) should happen openly. That is why I was against it. All (big leaders) were against it but they (Hizb) made an announcement. We could not deny but when the situation improved, the then amir of Jamaat (Ghulam Hassan Bhat in 1997) announced we have no militant outfit,” he said.
Hassan acknowledged that several senior leaders backed militancy. His eldest son, Sheikh Iqbal, was also a militant who was killed in 1992. The family said his decision to join militancy was his own and he never sought permission from his father.
“We learnt after a month that he has joined militancy,” a family member said.
On how could his party contest the elections when Jamaat and Hizb are accused of killing political opponents, Hassan said he was not aware of such killings. At the same time, he said killing innocents was wrong.
On elections, Hassan said he was not consulted by the current leadership headed by Ghulam Qadir Wani. “Jamaat is a banned organisation. It (decision to contest) should not have happened,” he said, parrying questions over whether it was a right or wrong decision.
“It has already happened,” Hassan said.
His family said he had been away from all organisational activities for the last one year because of his deteriorating health.
Jamaat is informally contesting its first election since the outbreak of militancy in 1989. It has attracted allegations of being a “BJP proxy”, allowed to contest to help queer the pitch for the INDIA bloc of anti-BJP parties.
Its decision has created quite a buzz as several militant groups, Hizb in particular, have killed hundreds of political activists belonging mainly to the National Conference and other parties, including the CPM.
Rivals are raising questions over the dramatic U-turn and asking how a haraam (forbidden) thing has suddenly become halaal (lawful).
More intriguing is the BJP-led government's decision to allow the Jamaat to contest. Before militancy, the Jamaat had participated in the elections, although it batted for the "right to self-determination".
Senior Jamaat activists in south Kashmir said they had directions from the party not to boycott polls.
Hassan contested the 1983 Assembly elections from Kulgam but lost to the National Conference. The party won the elections in 1987 as part of Muslim United Front, a grouping that had challenged the National Conference-Congress alliance.
The election was rigged at some places and is believed to have partly contributed to the rise of militancy.
While the Jamaat formally stayed away from polls in the last three-and-a-half decades, the party is widely known to have supported the Peoples Democratic Party in the elections. The former amir, however, denied any association with the PDP.
Source:telegraphindia.com
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://www.telegraphindia.com/india/jamaat-e-islami-ex-amir-sheikh-ghulam-we-should-not-have-fought-jammu-and-kashmir-elections/cid/2048625
---------
South Asia
Operations Resume at Afghan Embassy in Oman Now Under Islamic Emirate
174 September 2024
Hafiz Zia Ahmad Takal, the Deputy Spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, stated that the reopening of the Islamic Emirate's embassy in Oman is expected to play a significant role in strengthening political, economic, social, and religious ties between Kabul and Muscat.
"Since that day, the embassy has resumed its activities and services as usual. With the cooperation of the host country and the commencement of the embassy's operations, this embassy will play a constructive role in strengthening the political, economic, social, and religious relations between Kabul and Muscat," Zia Ahmad Takal said.
At the same time, some political analysts believe that establishing relations with Islamic countries could positively impact the engagement between the Islamic Emirate and other nations.
Salim Paigir, a political analyst, told TOLOnews: "Oman is one of the countries close to the West. This country can play a major and fundamental role in improving relations between the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan and Western countries, especially the United States."
Moeen Gul Samkani, another political analyst, said: "If we get closer to foreign countries, it could lead to economic reconstruction in Afghanistan and also create a bridge between the West and Afghanistan."
According to officials of the Islamic Emirate, 38 embassies and consulates of the interim government are currently active in various countries around the world.
Source:tolonews.com
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://tolonews.com/afghanistan-190769
---------
Charmonai Pir for building discrimination-free state with ideals of Islam
17 Sep 2024,
DHAKA, Sept 17, 2024 (BSS) - Islami Andolan Bangladesh (IAB) Amir Mufti Syed Muhammad Rezaul Karim, Charmonai Pir, today said it is not possible to build a discrimination-free state without the noble ideals of Islam and Prophet Hazrat Muhammad (PBUH) as well. "Country's citizens must need to reform themselves prior to reforming the state . . . And without the ideals of Prophet Hazrat Muhammad (PBUH), personal reformation is not possible," the Islamic Scholar told a function here. He was speaking at the conference titled "Madina Charter and Makkah Victory should be the spirit for rebuilding Bangladesh" organized by Islami Jubo Andolan Bangladesh (IJAB), an associated body of IAB, at Jatiya Press Club.
The IAB Amir said there is no alternative to build people with high moral values and principle aiming at making a happy and prosperous Bangladesh. "If people return to path of the Holy Quran, Bangladesh will be a discrimination-free and safe country to live in . . . The people of the country will be able to lead a smooth life with security of life and property," Mufti Rezaul Karim observed. Dhaka South City President of IJAB Maulana Muhammad Al-Amin Sohag, Secretary General Mufti Manur Ahmed Saki, Agriculture and Labor Affairs Secretary Abdur Rahman and Jatiya Ulema Mashaikh Aimma Parishad General Secretary Mufti Rezaul Karim Abrar spoke on the occasion, among others.
Source:bssnews.net
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://www.bssnews.net/news/210209
--------
Mullah Khairullah Engages Afghans in Moscow, Emphasizes National Progress and Unity
2024-09-18
KABUL(BNA): Mullah Khairullah Khairkhwa, Acting Minister of Information and Culture, met with Afghan nationals residing in Moscow following his participation in the international United Cultures Forum held in Saint Petersburg, Russia. The meeting took place at the Embassy of Afghanistan in Moscow.
According to Bakhtar News Agency. During the gathering, Mullah Khairkhwa spoke on Afghanistan’s progress, stating, “After enduring five decades of conflict, Afghanistan is now governed by a strong central administration, providing a solid foundation for security, stability, national unity, and brotherhood.”
Additionally, Mullah Khairkhwa commended the current state of diplomatic relations between Afghanistan and Russia, calling for further strengthening of friendly ties with neighboring countries. He also underscored the achievements of the Islamic Emirate over the past three years, particularly in the areas of anti-corruption efforts and combating narcotics.
The Acting Minister emphasized the importance of unity among Afghans in Moscow and encouraged Afghan professionals abroad to return home and contribute to the nation’s rebuilding and development.
In his closing remarks, Minister Khairkhwa described the current administration as inclusive, representing all ethnic groups, and free from any form of bias or ethnic discrimination.
During the meeting, Afghan cultural representatives in Russia shared their proposals for enhancing governance and promoting Afghan culture. They also requested the establishment of a cultural center in Russia, for which Mullah Khairkhwa pledged comprehensive support and cooperation from the Ministry of Information and Culture.
Source:bakhtarnews.af
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://www.bakhtarnews.af/en/mullah-khairullah-khairkhwa-engages-afghans-in-moscow-emphasizes-national-progress-and-unity/
---------
Herat Coordination Meeting Addresses Media Support and Misinformation Mitigation
2024-09-17
HERAT(BNA): A high-level coordination meeting was convened in Herat to streamline communication between provincial spokesmen and media officials from the western zone.
According to Bakhtar News Agency, the meeting was attended by the heads of Information and Culture from Herat, Badghis, Farah, and other key media representatives.
In the meeting, Mawlawi Zia-ul-Haq Haqmal, the Acting Deputy Minister of Publications and Director of Bakhtar News Agency at the Ministry of Information and Culture, addressed the gathering. He emphasized that supporting the media is a fundamental responsibility and highlighted the necessity for a constructive and cooperative relationship between spokesmen and media organizations.
Moreover, Mawlawi Haqmal underscored the importance of spokesmen representing the government effectively. He stressed that their collaboration with the media should align with the policies of the Islamic Emirate.
Additionally, Mawlawi Hayatullah Mohajer Farahi, Acting Deputy Governor of Herat, reiterated that spokesmen and media officials are obligated to provide accurate and reliable information to the public. This ensures transparency regarding the activities of government institutions and enhances public awareness.
Further, Mawlawi Ahmadullah Muttaqi, Director of Information and Culture in Herat, called for a rigorous approach to combating misinformation, cultural attacks, and negative propaganda from Western media. He emphasized that spokesmen, as representatives of the government, must be responsive to public concerns and address issues effectively.
Moreover, he highlighted the role of the media as a crucial channel for disseminating information, announcements, and activities of various institutions to the public.
In addition, Mawlawi Rahmatullah Nariwal, Head of Information Access at the Ministry of Information and Culture, clarified that spokesmen are required to provide information strictly within their institutional mandates. They should refrain from discussing topics that might undermine national interests.
The meeting concluded with a commitment from the western zone government spokesmen to adhere to the Islamic Emirate’s policies and ensure transparent information sharing with journalists and media outlets.
Source:bakhtarnews.af
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://www.bakhtarnews.af/en/herat-coordination-meeting-addresses-media-support-and-misinformation-mitigation/
--------
Mideast
Israel Police arrest Imam from Shuafat camp for terror incitement, fundraising for weapons
By SHLOMI HELLER/WALLA!
SEPTEMBER 17, 2024
Police intelligence in the Judea and Samaria district arrested an Imam from the Shu'afat refugee camp on suspicion of incitement, support for terrorism, and fundraising for terrorist activities on Tuesday, Israel Police stated.
The arrest was part of Operation "Emergency Brakes," led by Police Commissioner Daniel Levi, aimed at combating the incitement of terrorism.
The operation, carried out in collaboration with Israel Border Police and YASAM special police forces, targeted the 60-year-old Arab Israeli suspect within the Shu'afat refugee camp in East Jerusalem.
According to police, a leaflet was seized during a search of the suspect's residence.
Terror fundraising fliers
The leaflet encouraged donations to support terrorism, stating: "Whatever you spend in the way of Allah, He will return it to you. Any initiative to support our cause in Jenin, Nablus, and Tulkarem—I am here among you, fighting the cruel Zionist army."
It also read: "We, the mothers of the martyrs, will not raise the flag and stand aside. This is the least we can do in faith. If we cannot fight alongside them, we must provide the funds they need to purchase weapons to continue resisting. They were the ones who humiliated our dignity. In Allah, we trust, and we will pay the price. What are we before Allah?"
Source:jpost.com
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-820591
--------
Israeli military says four soldiers killed in southern Gaza
September 18, 2024
JERUSALEM: The Israeli military said on Wednesday four soldiers were killed in combat in southern Gaza.
Three soldiers were severely wounded and two others moderately wounded in the same incident, it said.
Source:arabnews.com
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://www.arabnews.com/node/2571832/middle-east
---------
Israel planted explosives in Hezbollah’s Taiwan-made pagers, sources say
September 18, 2024
BEIRUT: Israel’s Mossad spy agency planted a small amount of explosives inside 5000 Taiwan-made pagers ordered by Lebanese group Hezbollah months before Tuesday’s detonations, a senior Lebanese security source and another source told Reuters.
The details shed light on an unprecedented Hezbollah security breach that saw thousands of pagers detonate across Lebanon, killing nine people and wounding nearly 3,000 others, including the group’s fighters and Iran’s envoy to Beirut.
Iran-backed Hezbollah has vowed to retaliate against Israel, whose military declined to comment on the blasts.
The plot appears to have been many months in the making, several sources told Reuters.
The senior Lebanese security source said the group had ordered 5,000 beepers made by Taiwan-based Gold Apollo, which several sources say were brought into the country in the spring.
The senior Lebanese security source identified a photograph of the model of the pager, an AP924, which like other pagers wirelessly receive and display text messages but cannot make telephone calls.
Hezbollah fighters have been using pagers as a low-tech means of communication in an attempt to evade Israeli location-tracking, two sources familiar with the group’s operations told Reuters this year.
But the senior Lebanese source said the devices had been modified by Israel’s spy service “at the production level.”
“The Mossad injected a board inside of the device that has explosive material that receives a code. It’s very hard to detect it through any means. Even with any device or scanner,” the source said.
The source said 3,000 of the pagers exploded when a coded message was sent to them, simultaneously activating the explosives.
Another security source told Reuters that up to three grams of explosives were hidden in the new pagers and had gone “undetected” by Hezbollah for months.
Neither Israel nor Gold Apollo immediately responded to Reuters requests for comment.
Images of destroyed pagers analyzed by Reuters showed a format and stickers on the back that were consistent with pagers made by Gold Apollo, based in Taipei.
Hezbollah was reeling from the attack, which left fighters and others bloodied, hospitalized or dead. One Hezbollah official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the detonation was the group’s “biggest security breach” since the Gaza conflict between Israel and Hezbollah ally Hamas erupted on Oct. 7.
“This would easily be the biggest counterintelligence failure that Hezbollah has had in decades,” said Jonathan Panikoff, the US government’s former deputy national intelligence officer on the Middle East.
Source:arabnews.com
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://www.arabnews.com/node/2571820/middle-east
--------
Iranian president pledges deeper ties with Moscow, state media says
September 18, 2024
MOSCOW: Iran’s president committed his country to deeper ties with Russia to counter Western sanctions on Tuesday, state media reported, amid US worries that Tehran is supplying Moscow missiles to hit Ukraine.
Russia’s top security official Sergei Shoigu arrived in the Iranian capital days after meeting North Korean leader Kim Jong Un in Pyongyang. More than two and a half years into its conflict with Ukraine, Moscow has been seeking to develop ties with the two nations, both hostile to the United States.
“My government will seriously follow ongoing cooperation and measures to upgrade the level of relations between the two countries,” the state IRNA news agency quoted Iranian president Masoud Pezeshkian as telling Shoigu, Secretary of Russia’s Security Council.
“Relations between Tehran and Moscow will develop in a permanent, continuous and lasting way. Deepening and strengthening relations and cooperation between Iran and Russia will reduce the impact of sanctions.”
The United States views Moscow’s growing relationships with Pyongyang and Tehran with concern and says both are supplying Russia with ballistic missiles for use in the conflict in Ukraine.
Iran has denied sending ballistic missiles to Russia. Moscow has said only that Iran is Russia’s partner in all possible areas.
Shoigu’s trips are taking place at a crucial moment in the war, as Kyiv presses the United States and its allies to let it use Western-supplied long-range weapons to strike targets such as airfields deep inside Russian territory.
President Vladimir Putin said last week that Western countries would be fighting Russia directly if they gave the green light, and that Moscow would respond.
The Nour news agency, affiliated to Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, said Shoigu met his Iranian opposite number, Ali Akbar Ahmadian. There was no immediate information on the outcome of the meeting.
Russia has repeatedly said it is close to signing a major agreement with Iran to seal a strategic partnership between the two countries.
Shoigu was Russian defense minister until May, when he was appointed secretary of the Security Council that brings together President Vladimir Putin’s military and intelligence chiefs and other senior officials.
Apart from meeting North Korea’s Kim last week, he also held talks in St. Petersburg with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi.
Source:arabnews.com
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://www.arabnews.com/node/2571814/middle-east
---------
Israel has a long history of pulling off complex attacks like the exploding pagers
September 18, 2024
JERUSALEM: Hezbollah and the Lebanese government were quick to blame Israel for the nearly simultaneous detonation of hundreds of pagers used by the militant group’s members in an attack Tuesday that killed at least nine people and wounded nearly 3,000 others, according to officials.
Many of those hit were members of militant group Hezbollah, but it wasn’t immediately clear if others also carried the pagers. Among those killed were the son of a prominent Hezbollah politician and an 8-year-old girl, according to Lebanon’s health minister.
The attack came amid rising tensions between Israel and Iran-backed Hezbollah, which have exchanged fire across the Israel-Lebanon border since the Oct. 7 attack by Hamas that sparked the war in Gaza. Iran’s ambassador to Lebanon was among those injured by the pager explosions.
Israel rarely takes responsibility for such attacks, and its military declined to comment Tuesday. However, the country has a long history of carrying out sophisticated remote operations, ranging from intricate cyberattacks to remote-controlled machine guns targeting leaders in drive-by shootings, suicide drone attacks, and the detonation of explosions in secretive underground Iranian nuclear facilities.
Here is a look at previous operations that have been attributed to Israel:
July 2024
Two major militant leaders in Beirut and Tehran were killed in deadly strikes within hours of each other. Hamas said Israel was behind the assassination of its supreme leader, Ismail Haniyeh, in Iran’s capital. Although Israel didn’t acknowledge playing a role in that attack, it did claim responsibility for a deadly strike hours earlier on Fouad Shukur, a top Hezbollah commander in Beirut.
July 2024
Israel targeted Hamas’ shadowy military commander, Mohammed Deif, in a massive strike in the crowded southern Gaza Strip. The strike killed at least 90 people, including children, according to local health officials. The Israeli military said in August that Deif was killed in the attack, though Hamas previously claimed he survived.
April 2024
Two Iranian generals were killed in what Iran said was an Israeli strike on the Iranian consulate in Syria. The deaths led Iran to launch an unprecedented attack on Israel that involved about 300 missiles and drones, most of which were intercepted.
January 2024
An Israeli drone strike in Beirut killed Saleh Arouri, a top Hamas official in exile, as Israeli troops fight the militant group in Gaza.
December 2023
Seyed Razi Mousavi, a longtime adviser of the Iranian paramilitary Revolutionary Guard in Syria, was killed in a drone attack outside of Damascus. Iran blamed Israel.
2021
An underground nuclear facility in central Iran was hit with explosions and a devastating cyberattack that caused rolling blackouts. Iran accused Israel of carrying out the attack as well as several others against Iranian nuclear facilities using explosive drones in the ensuing years.
2020
In one of the most prominent assassinations targeting Iran’s nuclear program, a top Iranian military nuclear scientist, Mohsen Fakhrizadeh, was killed by a remote-controlled machine gun while traveling in a car outside Tehran. Iran blamed Israel.
2019
An Israeli airstrike hit the home of Bahaa Abu el-Atta, a senior Islamic Jihad commander in the Gaza Strip, killing him and his wife.
2012
Ahmad Jabari, head of Hamas’ armed wing, was killed when an airstrike targets his car. His death sparked an eight-day war between Hamas and Israel.
2010
The Stuxnet computer virus, discovered in 2010, disrupted and destroyed Iranian nuclear centrifuges. It was widely believed to be a joint US-Israeli creation.
2010
Mahmoud Al-Mabhouh, a top Hamas operative, was killed in a Dubai hotel room in an operation attributed to the Mossad spy agency but never acknowledged by Israel. Many of the 26 supposed assassins were caught on camera disguised as tourists.
2008
Imad Mughniyeh, Hezbollah’s military chief, was killed when a bomb planted in his car exploded in Damascus. Mughniyeh was accused of engineering suicide bombings during Lebanon’s civil war and of planning the 1985 hijacking of a TWA airliner in which a US Navy diver was killed. Hezbollah blamed his killing on Israel. His son Jihad Mughniyeh was killed in an Israeli strike in 2015.
2004
Hamas’ spiritual leader, Ahmed Yassin, was killed in an Israeli helicopter strike while being pushed in his wheelchair. Yassin, who was paralyzed in a childhood accident, was among the founders of Hamas in 1987. His successor, Abdel Aziz Rantisi, was killed in an Israeli airstrike less than a month later.
2002
Hamas’s second-highest military leader, Salah Shehadeh, was killed by a one-ton bomb dropped on an apartment building in Gaza City.
1997
Mossad agents tried to kill the head of Hamas at the time, Khaled Mashaal, in Amman, Jordan. Two agents entered Jordan using fake Canadian passports and poison Mashaal by placing a device near his ear. They were captured shortly afterward and Jordan’s king threatened to void a still-fresh peace accord if Mashaal died. Israel ultimately dispatched an antidote, and the Israeli agents were returned home. Mashaal remains a senior figure in Hamas.
1996
Yahya Ayyash, nicknamed the “engineer” for his mastery in building bombs for Hamas, was killed by answering a rigged phone in Gaza. His assassination triggered a series of deadly bus bombings in Israel.
1995
Islamic Jihad founder Fathi Shikaki was shot in the head in Malta in an assassination widely believed to have been carried out by Israel.
1988
Palestine Liberation Organization military chief Khalil Al-Wazir was killed in Tunisia. Better known as Abu Jihad, he had been PLO chief Yasser Arafat’s deputy. In 2012, military censors allowed an Israeli paper to reveal details of the Israeli raid for the first time.
1973
Israeli commandos shot a number of PLO leaders in their apartments in Beirut, in a nighttime raid led by Ehud Barak, who later became Israel’s top army commander and prime minister. The operation was part of a string of Israeli assassinations of Palestinian leaders that were carried out in retaliation for the killings of 11 Israeli coaches and athletes at the 1972 Munich Olympics.
Source:arabnews.com
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://www.arabnews.com/node/2571811/middle-east
--------
WHO chief says Israel tanks fired on Gaza aid convoy
September 18, 2024
GENEVA: The World Health Organization chief on Tuesday said that Israeli tanks at the weekend had fired on an aid convoy that had been cleared to travel back from war-ravaged northern Gaza.
“Last Saturday, on the way back from a mission to the northern Gaza and after a WHO-led convoy got clearance and crossed the coast road checkpoint, the convoy encountered two Israeli tanks,” Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said on X, formerly Twitter.
“Shots were fired from the tanks near the convoy. Luckily nobody was hurt,” he said. “This is unacceptable.”
The incident came just a week after the United Nations said that a convoy carrying workers for a polio vaccination campaign in Gaza had been held at gunpoint at an Israeli military checkpoint.
During that encounter, in the context of a massive vaccination campaign after the first case of polio in 25 years was registered in the Palestinian territory, shots were fired and convoy vehicles were rammed by a bulldozer, UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric said last week.
The “incident and the conduct of Israeli forces on the ground put the lives of our staff in danger,” he lamented.
“It is critical that Israeli forces take measures to protect humanitarian staff and assets to facilitate their work.”
In his post, Tedros hailed the teams in Saturday’s convoy who “despite the security risk” had managed to reach Al-Shifa, Gaza’s largest hospital, to deliver supplies for the emergency room.
“Supplies were also delivered to support the Palestine Red Crescent Society facilities in the north, including for the treatment of noncommunicable diseases,” he said.
“The teams also facilitated the rotation of emergency medical teams.”
The United Nations health agency chief hailed the “unwavering humanitarian workers in Gaza,” who “amid extreme danger and life-threatening conditions... continue to deliver critical aid.”
They are “serving as the last hope for the survival for two million people in desperate need,” he said in his post.
“The minimum they deserve for their service is safety. The deconfliction mechanism needs to be adhered to. Ceasefire!“
The October 7 attack on southern Israel that sparked the war in Gaza resulted in the deaths of 1,205 people, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally based on official Israeli figures.
Militants also seized 251 hostages, 97 of whom are still held in Gaza, including 33 the Israeli military says are dead.
Israel’s retaliatory military offensive has killed at least 41,252 people in Gaza, according to the Hamas-run territory’s health ministry, which does not provide a breakdown of civilian and militant deaths.
Source:arabnews.com
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://www.arabnews.com/node/2571809/middle-east
--------
Jordan armed forces downs drone attempting to cross Jordanian territory
September 17, 2024
CAIRO: Jordanian armed forces thwarted an attempt by a drone to cross the kingdom’s territory, Jordan’s state news agency Petra said on Tuesday, without clarifying the direction from which it was coming.
“The border guard forces ... shot it down and it was transferred to the specialized authorities,” Petra said citing an official source in the army’s leadership.
Petra also quoted the source as saying: “We are dealing firmly with various threats on the kingdom’s borders.”
Jordan neighbors Syria and Iraq — both countries where Iranian proxy forces operate — and also is next door to Israel and the Israeli-occupied West Bank.
The Jordanian statement came shortly after Lebanon’s Hezbollah group accused Israel of detonating pagers across Lebanon, killing at least eight people and wounding nearly 3,000 others including Iran’s envoy to Beirut.
In April, the kingdom shot down Iranian drones flying over to Israel.
More recently in September, a gunman from Jordan killed three Israelis at the Allenby Bridge border crossing in the occupied West Bank before security forces shot him dead.
Source:arabnews.com
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://www.arabnews.com/node/2571798/middle-east
---------
Islamist groups escalate retaliatory attacks on Burkina Faso civilians, HRW says
SEPTEMBER 18,
Jihadist groups in Burkina Faso have escalated attacks on civilians, often in retaliation against communities for refusing to join their ranks or allegedly collaborating with government troops, Human Rights Watch said on Wednesday.
The junta-led West African nation has been grappling with Islamist insurgents, some with links to al Qaeda and Islamic State, since they spread into its territory from neighboring Mali almost a decade ago.
Military leader Ibrahim Traore has pushed for civilians to play a role in fighting the insurgency, recruiting thousands of volunteer army auxiliaries known as VDPs and, more recently, requiring civilians to dig defensive trenches.
The jihadists have been retaliating with increasingly deadly attacks on civilians, Human Rights Watch (HRW) found.
The watchdog documented seven jihadist attacks between February and June that led to at least 128 civilian deaths. Insurgents targeted villages, a displaced people's camp, and worshippers in a Catholic church.
Al Qaeda affiliate Jama'a Nusrat ul-Islam wa al-Muslimin (JNIM) claimed responsibility for six of the attacks.
Civilians caught in the crossfire.
The group has issued several warnings against civilians seen as collaborating with the army in the past, and witnesses told HRW this motivated the attacks.
Some villagers were killed after authorities forced them to return to areas from which jihadists had evicted them because some had joined the VDPs.
"We are between a rock and a hard place," a 56-year-old villager told HRW.
ISIS-affiliated Islamic State in the Greater Sahara (ISGS) claimed the February church massacre was an apparent retaliation against Christians who did not abandon their religion, according to witnesses.
The junta, which has previously condemned HRW reports on military forces summarily executing civilians suspected of collaborating with jihadists, sent the watchdog a rare written response to the report in August.
In a letter, the justice minister rejected HRW's claim that the prosecution of serious crimes had been sluggish since the start of the conflict and said all alleged human rights violations and abuses insurgents had committed were being investigated.
The minister also said displaced people had returned voluntarily to areas that security forces had taken back and secured.
The HRW report did not include a JNIM attack on civilians ordered to dig trenches around the north-central town of Barsalogho at the end of August. Hundreds of people were shot dead, making it one of the deadliest in Burkina Faso's history.
Traore vowed to do better than his predecessors when he seized power in September 2022, the second coup in Burkina Faso that year, stoked in part by anger against authorities for worsening violence.
But the security situation has deteriorated further under his regime, which has also cracked down on dissent, analysts, rights groups, and humanitarian workers say.
Source:jpost.com
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://www.jpost.com/international/article-820623
---------
Europe
Empty Harwich dance studio to be transformed into mosque and community centre
ByMatt Lee
18 SEP 2024
Councillors have approved proposals to change the use of an empty dance studio into a mosque and community centre. The proposals for the building on Main Road in Harwich were approved subject to conditions after a meeting of Tendring District Council's Planning Committee on September 10.
A report published by the council said the principle of development was supported as it would result in the retention of a community facility that is currently vacant. The building will be used in part as a place of worship.
The site would be open Monday to Thursdays (2pm to 8pm) and Fridays and Saturdays between 12 and 2:30pm as well as between 4pm and 9pm. The site will host weekly prayers but will also be used for community facilities including educational workshops, English classes, arts and culture and youth programmes, the proposal said.
Tendring District Council noted objections they had received relating to car parking provision. The site does not have any parking spaces, but officers said the site is "highly sustainable" through being in walking distance to public transport facilities.
John Pateman-Gee, head of planning at Tendring District Council, told the committee: "You could argue there's a very long list of changes here that you could argue, depending on your point of view, consider to be an improvement. You are looking at a change from commercial venture of a dance studio through to a community use so that's an automatic point that it's now for the community rather than a commercial venture.
"You have the fact that it's a building brought back into use rather than vacant and neglected which is something that I'm sure would be managed and maintained, repaired, weeded and so on. You have those improvements."
Planning officers admitted they do not know whether the facility would be used for prayer at any other times of the day and week and what would happen during festival times. Mr Pateman-Gee said: "How they manage their time in the hours they have is ultimately up to them and their choice to how to run their facility.
"We feel that it's adequate in planning terms to mitigate any antisocial timeframe which is why there is a condition included which had not been imposed before. This time around officers have the opportunity to make improvements in planning terms and a condition has been made in regard to hours as set out in the officer report, but what they do within those hours is going to be varied and unreasonable to control in a timeframe."
The proposal was approved by the committee subject to conditions with Cllr Richard Everett (Reform UK, Frinton) voting against.
Source:essexlive.news
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://www.essexlive.news/news/essex-news/empty-harwich-dance-studio-transformed-9559481
--------
Medvedev proposes list of ‘Russia’s enemies’
17 Sep, 2024
Moscow should start putting together a database of “Russophobic scum” and put them on notice of inevitable retribution for their misdeeds, former president and head of Russia’s Security Council, Dmitry Medvedev, has said.
Medvedev has long been a hardliner on the Ukraine conflict and began his latest Telegram post by criticizing “vile scum” in the West who advocated for letting Kiev strike deep into Russian territory with NATO weapons.
“I want to talk about something else, however: about the need to remember the criminal calls of individual Western freaks and prepare for retribution,” Medvedev wrote.
“It is necessary to use the enemy’s own weapon. Despite a number of obvious legal issues, it is worth considering creating an open public database of our enemies with their personal data. For quite practical purposes,” he added.
This was likely a reference to Mirotvorets (‘Peacemaker’), the notorious Ukrainian government-linked website that has hosted a database of supposed enemies of the state since 2014, following the US-backed coup in Kiev.
A number of people in the database have ended up assassinated by Ukrainian intelligence, earning Mirotvorets the moniker of “Kiev’s kill list.” It has never been denounced, either by the Ukrainian government or its backers in the West.
According to Medvedev, justice demands that sponsors of terrorism and those who incited violence be put on notice.
“History is full of examples of revenge delayed,” he added, noting the Soviet Union’s relentless pursuit of Leon Trotsky or Ukrainian Nazi collaborator Stepan Bandera, Russia going after “terrorists and traitors” in modern times, and the US and other Western countries targeting their enemies.
The important thing, he argued, was the “inevitability” of revenge, so that “every creature, regardless of its nation, faith, citizenship and position, who committed a crime against our country and our people,” knows it is coming and turns into “a rat sick with anxiety and paranoia.”
“Such operations are carefully planned and do not always work out. But they need to be done. This is extremely important, for the sake of ultimate justice and in memory of the innocent victims,” Medvedev said.
A legal scholar by education, Medvedev was considered “liberal” by the West when he presided over Russia between 2008 and 2012. He went on to serve as prime minister until 2020, when he was put in charge of the national Security Council.
Source:rt.com
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://www.rt.com/russia/604196-medvedev-russia-enemies-list/
---------
Pakistan
PM Shehbaz calls for ending trend of abusive language, hate speech
September 17, 2024
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed concerns regarding the rising trends of extremism and hate speech in the society, saying that the nation should follow the Holy Prophet Muhammad's (PBUH) teachings of peace and morality, as the nation celebrated Eid Milad un Nabi on Tuesday.
"Abusive language, hateful behaviours, injustice and division in society were a moment for reflection. We must eradicate these negative conducts in the light of the teachings of the Prophet (PBUH)," the premier said while addressing a ceremony regarding 12th Rabi ul Awal celebration in Lahore.
Urging the nation to make joint efforts to combat extremism, division, PM Shehbaz said that our hands and tongues should not engage in anything that the Prophet (PBUH) forbade.
"We must play our part in reforming a society marred by offensive language," he added.
He stressed the importance of adhering to the teachings of Muhammad (PBUH) as a solution to all sorts of problems being faced by the country.
He said the teachings of the holy prophet serve as a beacon for not only the Muslims but for all people seeking guidance.
It was due to the blessing of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) that people of other religions are also living in Pakistan peacefully, he added.
The prime minister called for the establishment of a welfare state grounded in Islamic principles, asserting that such a system is essential for Pakistan's development.
He said that the Holy Prophet (PBUH) gave the Muslim ummah a public welfare system and guidelines for the treatment of elders and orphans based onthe highest standards of morality.
Highlighting the importance of unity as per the teachings of the Holy Quran, the prime minister said division is the agenda of the country's enemies and Pakistanis will have to foil this through collective efforts.
Moreover, PM Shehbaz also voiced strong support for the oppressed people of Kashmir and Palestine as millions of Muslims have been sacrificing their lives in the name of resistance.
He expressed hope that both Palestine and Kashmir will soon attain freedom and justice.
'Time to set aside differences'
Earlier, in his message on Eid Milad un Nabi, PM Shehbaz said that "the solution to the challenges facing the Muslim Ummah and Pakistan lies in the teachings of Holy Prophet (PBUH)."
"We have to put aside our differences and pledge to work for the development of the country and the nation. The 12th of Rabi ul Awal is an auspicious day when Allah Almighty bestowed upon humanity a perfect guidance," said the prime minister.
He stressed that the Holy Prophet's (PBUH) life and character is "a torch of guidance for us."
PM Shehbaz remarked: "The Holy Prophet's (PBUH) every act and decree is a manifestation of how humanity can be guided on the path of development based on the principles of love, tolerance and justice.
"In today's difficult times, we need to read and follow the biography of the Holy Prophet (PBUH). The solution to the challenges that the Muslim Ummah and Pakistan are facing today lies in the teachings of the Holy Prophet (PBUH)."
Source:thenews.com.pk
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://www.thenews.com.pk/latest/1231401-pm-shehbaz-calls-for-ending-trend-of-abusive-language-hate-speech
---------
Imran Khan's long list of crimes makes constitutional amendment irrelevant for him: Khawaja Asif
By Haider Sherazi & Web Desk
September 17, 2024
Defence Minister Khawaja Asif censured incarcerated Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder for casting doubts over the proposed constitutional amendment, saying Imran Khan's crimes alone would be enough to keep him behind bars.
“Given PTI founder's long list of crimes, constitutional amendments won't be necessary,” asserted Asif while talking to Geo News.
"The incarcerated former premier wants to attach himself not just to constitutional amendments but to everything [that's happening] in Pakistan as he considers himself the centre of everything."
The statement comes in response to latest remarks by former prime minister, who claimed that the ruling coalition's constitutional amendments package was designed to prolong his incarceration. He had described the proposed changes as disastrous for the country and the judiciary.
"The PTI founder should reflect on what chaos he created in the last four years. There was an attempted rebellion [against the state] on May 9 [last year]," the defence czar added.
"Some individuals from armed forces, who were in cahoots with ex-ISI chief Lt Gen (retd) Faiz Hameed. were also involved in the May 9 mayhem.
“Since the PTI founder has been in custody, he has repeatedly — like three to four thousand times— said that he will talk to the establishment,” the ruling Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) leader said.
He also rejected the opposition parties’ allegations of keeping the amendments under wraps, saying that the draft legislation was “a public document whose contents are not a secret”.
Despite Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif-led coalition government's failure to get the required number to pass the amendments which led to the indefinite postponement of its tabling yesterday, Asif was optimistic about the passage of new legislation through the parliament, come what may.
Defending the coalition government’s move to make judiciary-centric constitutional amendments, Asif stated that the changes aimed at maintaining a balance of power among institutions, not just at ensuring accountability.
Claiming that the PTI was willing to support the constitutional package, he revealed that "the former ruling party has requested the government to postpone the amendment until December."
To another question, Asif said that the superior judiciary was dealing with the appointment of judges as it had only five serving judges each from every chamber.
He lamented that politicians always faced accountability and cases for their failures but their salaries were only Rs200,000. "On the other hand, judges are receiving big salaries clubbed with perks but 27,000 cases are still pending in different courts," said Asif.
The politico was apparently responding to Khan’s queries over the proposed establishment of a constitutional court for the latter alleged yesterday that "current rulers are afraid of the Supreme Court, therefore, they want to constitute a [separate] constitutional court".
PTI's Barrister Gohar rejects Asif's claims
In response to Asif’s statement, PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan told Geo News that the defence minister was not part of the parliamentary special committee.
"Neither have we been involved in any discussions with Asif, nor has PTI assured support for the government's constitutional amendments until December," he said.
He categorically rejected Asif’s claims, asserting that any statement about PTI’s approval would be false, as the "draft, suggestion, or package has not yet been disclosed."
The politico added that while his party’s lawmakers had requested the draft of the proposed changes from the government, PTI has never promised to support the new legislation.
Treasury and opposition benches have engaged in a tug-of-war in both houses of the parliament over the incumbent government’s constitutional amendment legislation that allegedly aims to extend the tenure of Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Qazi Faez Isa — who is set to retire in October this year — as well as the retirement age of the judges.
However, the government needs to secure a two-thirds majority in parliament to successfully pass any constitutional amendment.
The ruling parties continued their strenuous efforts to get Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) Chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman's assent to the proposed amendments and held multiple meetings to convince him.
On the other hand, the opposition parties — PTI and JUI-F — criticised the government for being secretive over the content of the constitutional amendments whose original draft should be presented in the parliament for a debate before its approval.
In the National Assembly, the government is short of 13 votes to pass the said constitutional amendment while in the Senate, it is short of nine votes.
Source:thenews.com.pk
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://www.thenews.com.pk/latest/1231398-pti-founders-long-list-of-crimes-makes-constitutional-amendment-irrelevant-says-asif
---------
Tribunal nullifies Balochistan minister’s victory
Saleem Shahid
September 17, 2024
QUETTA: An election tribunal on Monday declared the victory of Balochistan Minister for Agriculture Mir Ali Madad Jattak null and void and ordered re-polling at 15 polling stations in the PB-45 Quetta constituency.
The tribunal, headed by Justice Abdullah Baloch of the Balochistan High Court, had reserved its judgement after concluding the hearing of the election petition submitted by Mir Usman Pirkani, a JUI-F candidate from PB-45 Quetta, who contested the victory of Ali Madad Jattak, a PPP lawmaker and minister for agriculture.
The election tribunal, after examining all witness statements and records, upheld the petition and declared Mr Jattak’s victory null and void. The tribunal also ordered re-polling at 15 polling stations in PB-45. With the nullification of his assembly membership, he will also be stripped of his ministerial position.
The petitioner’s case was argued by advocates Qazi Najeeb-ur-Rehman and Muhammad Rashid Ayub, while Mr Jattak’s was represented by his counsel Dr Bahram Tareen and Jameel Ahmad Babai.
Mr Jattak is the second sitting minister in the Balochistan government to lose his seat, and will face a re-election.
Earlier, Home Minister Mir Ziaullah Langove was unseated by the election tribunal after his victory was challenged by rival candidate Sardar Saeed Ahmed Langove in PB-36 (Kalat). The tribunal had ordered re-polling in seven polling stations. Consequently, Mr Langove had challenged the tribunal’s verdict in the Supreme Court which dismissed his petition on Monday.
Source:dawn.com
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://www.dawn.com/news/1859474/tribunal-nullifies-balochistan-ministers-victory
---------
Pakistan, US explore ways to bolster partnership
Baqir Sajjad
September 17, 2024
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and the United States on Monday explored opportunities to bolster their economic and security partnership.
A statement issued by the US embassy in Islamabad on the meetings of the visiting US Acting Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs John Bass with Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar and Chief of Army Staff General Asim Munir said discussions were held on “approaches to expanding bilateral cooperation on economic and security issues, including countering terrorism and violent extremism, and the importance of fostering regional stability and prosperity”.
Bass is accompanied on the trip by Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary Elizabeth Horst.
Economy and security are the two areas in which Pakistan has lately been pushing for enhanced cooperation with US as these are the two most pressing challenges facing the country currently, which the government intends to address through external support.
Pakistan is keen about garnering support to address the challenge of terrorism, particularly the one posed by Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP).But at the same time, it relies heavily on US for its support at IMF. Pakistan had recently reached out to the US again due to the delays in the approval of the $7bn Extended Fund Facility that has been pending for months.
Last week, IMF finally put Pakistan on the agenda of its board meeting scheduled for Sept 25.
The transit of Afghan refugees, who are destined for the US through Pakistan, is another issue on the table. Washington is generally not satisfied with Pakistan’s cooperation on this matter that started with Taliban takeover of Afghanistan in 2021.
However, in a diplomatically couched statement, the US embassy said: “Under Secretary Bass expressed his gratitude for Pakistan’s continued cooperation in assisting Afghans in resettlement pathways to the US.”
Bass expressed US interest in working closely with Pakistan during its upcoming 2025-26 tenure at the Security Council as non-permanent member.
The FO said Pakistan-US ties and ongoing collaboration projects were discussed during US delegation’s meeting with Mr Dar.
The foreign minister, the FO said, during the discussion underlined the importance of positive and productive engagement between Pakistan and the United States.
Source:dawn.com
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://www.dawn.com/news/1859477/pakistan-us-explore-ways-to-bolster-partnership
---------
On Eid-i-Miladun Nabi, national leaders urge justice, tolerance to solve prevailing issues
Dawn.com | APP | Imtiaz Ali
September 17, 2024
As Eid-i-Miladun Nabi was being celebrated with religious zeal and fervour across the country on Tuesday, political leaders urged the nation to follow Holy Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) teachings of unity and tolerance.
The day — declared a public holiday — dawned with a 31-gun salute in Islamabad and 21-gun salutes in all provincial capitals, state-run Radio Pakistan stated.
President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif extended their heartfelt congratulations to the country on the occasion of Eid-i-Miladun Nabi, Radio Pakistan reported.
Both leaders urged the public to follow the Holy Prophet’s teachings as a “guiding light to overcome prevailing challenges”.
President Zardari stressed the need to spread the message of love and compassion for humanity taught by the Holy Prophet.
He highlighted that the Holy Prophet established a just society where every individual, regardless of their wealth or social status, could live with dignity, the Associated Press of Pakistan reported.
President Zardari emphasised that Holy Prophet’s teachings encouraged his followers to speak out against oppression and support the marginalised as an integral part of their faith.
“Today, as the world faces division and oppression, it’s imperative to spread the message of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), which embodies love, tolerance, and human rights.
“He treated all individuals, regardless of their faith, with respect and dignity. Embracing this spirit, we must promote global brotherhood, justice, and love,” President Zardari remarked.
In his message, PM Shehbaz said the blessed life, noble character, and exemplary conduct of the Holy Prophet served as a beacon of light for entire humanity.
The premier also highlighted that the nation should also remember “our oppressed brothers and sisters in Palestine and [occupied] Kashmir, who are facing tyranny and oppression”.
“Every word and deed of the Prophet (PBUH) is a manifestation of how human beings could achieve prosperity by upholding the universal principles of love, tolerance, and justice,” PM Shehbaz said.
He further said the Holy Prophet “instilled in his followers the values of unity, love, and brotherhood, which are the principles that can make us overcome our social and economic challenges”.
The premier emphasised upon supporting the vulnerable, prioritising those struggling with poverty and hunger, and adopting a habit of helping others, APP said.
“Let us commit on this occasion to set aside our differences and work together for the progress and prosperity of our beloved,” the prime minister was quoted as saying.
While special prayers were offered after the Fajr prayer for the unity of the Muslim Ummah and Pakistan’s prosperity, the day’s main feature would be the National Seerat Conference in Islamabad.
Organised by Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony, the conference was set to begin at 9am and is being broadcast live by Radio Pakistan.
Dar stresses education reforms based on religious teachings
On the occasion, Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar emphasised the need for formulating Pakistan’s education system in the light of the Holy Prophet’s teachings, Radio Pakistan reported.
Addressing the National Seerat Conference, Dar highlighted the need for a coordinated education system that provides both religious and worldly education.
The deputy PM asked the religious affairs ministry to furnish comprehensive recommendations in this regard after engagement with the education ministry and religious scholars.
Expressing concerns over the “moral decline observed on social media”, Dar emphasised that education should prioritise character development and strong ethical values.
Radio Pakistan quoted him as stressing the need to provide modern scientific knowledge to the youth so that Pakistan could compete with the developed world.
Minister for Religious Affairs Chaudhry Salik Hussain said that the Holy Prophet was not only a spiritual leader but also a great teacher. He said by following the teachings of the last Prophet, a well-balanced and educated society can be established.
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi also extended his felicitations on the cherished occasion, APP reported.
He said the Holy Prophet (PBUH) was the perfect embodiment of excellent qualities and values, emphasising that the key to success for all Muslims lay in following his teachings.
Planned processions
Meanwhile, Milad processions would be held in all cities today, where ulema will stress adherence to the teachings and Sunnah of the Holy Prophet, Radio Pakistan said.
It added that Milad gatherings would also be organised in all small and major cities. Streets, roads, buildings, mosques, and houses across the country have been decorated with colourful lights to mark the auspicious occasion, the report said.
In Sindh, a ban on pillion riding has been placed. Officials have hinted at the possibility of suspending internet connections and cell phone services today, particularly in the areas along the routes of the main processions.
Karachi police said two central processions would be taken out in the city — first from Tower to Aram Bagh and second from New Memon Masjid in Boulton Market to Nishtar Park.
Karachi Additional Inspector General Javed Alam Odho, in statement, issued directives for bomb disposal squads to be positioned at the procession routes and gathering venues.
“Houses, shops and buildings near the venue of the main procession, the routes and locations of other gatherings are to be surveyed,” he ordered. Odho also said that clerics and prominent religious figures should be kept in contact.
South District Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Syed Asad Raza told Dawn.com that the routes leading to M.A. Jinnah Road have been sealed with containers with a total of 532 of them placed across the city.
DIG Raza detailed that the South Zone Police has deployed 4,716 police officers, 51 lady staff, 15 senior superintendents of police (SSPs), and 27 deputy superintendents of police (DSPs).
Providing Dawn.com with a detailed breakdown of the deployment, the official said 339 personnel were placed at various routes, 90 at rooftops and 28 at plots across the South Zone.
He highlighted that snipers of Sindh Police’s Special Security Unit have been stationed across the area while one counter-assault team each has been positioned at Kharadar and Mama Parsi.
The DIG said that police have set up control rooms at various places to ensure the security of processions, adding that the main procession will be monitored from a special room established in his office.
“The entrances and exits of the main processions have been completely sealed, and a police force has been deployed,” DIG Raza told Dawn.com.
Meanwhile, Malir SSP Kashif Abbasi said in a statement that more than 2,000 police personnel have been stationed across the district to provide security at more than 50 locations.
He added that a control room has been established in the Malir Police’s office where teams would monitor the security situation via CCTVs. Echoing the arrangements made by the South Zone Police, SSP Abbasi said all entry and exit points of the processions had been sealed off.
For processions in Islamabad, the capital police have also chalked out a security plan and deployed over 2,000 officials.
The main procession in the city would be cordoned off through deployment. The procession would start from G-7 Jamia Masjid Al Raza and culminate near the shrine of Hazrat Sakhi Mahmud at Aabpara market after passing through its designated route.
In Rawalpindi, the main procession of Eid Miladun Nabi was to depart from the Markazi Jamia Masjid Raja Bazaar at 10am and be later joined by other rallies from different areas.
The procession — after passing through its traditional route from Jamia Masjid Road, Kohati Bazaar, Benazir Bhutto Road, Iqbal Road, Fawara Chowk, Raja Bazaar, and Dingi Kohi — will culminate at Markazi Jamia Mosque at night.
Heavy deployment is to be seen across Punjab, where some 55,000 personnel have been deployed to provide security to 1,581 gatherings along with 2,467 processions and rallies.
In Lahore alone, more than 10,000 officers, personnel, and volunteers have been placed on security duty as 255 processions and 225 Milad gatherings are set to take place.
In Quetta, where police and other law enforcement agencies have taken tight security measures, a procession was set to commence from Saryab Road and culminate at Jamiat Roy Road after marching through its conventional routes, Radio Pakistan said.
Source:dawn.com
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://www.dawn.com/news/1859525/on-eid-i-miladun-nabi-national-leaders-urge-justice-tolerance-to-solve-prevailing-issues
---------
Arab World
Saudi Arabia ranks top in region, 4th globally on UN’s digital government services index
September 17, 2024
RIYADH: Saudi Arabia has climbed 25 places to become one of the leading countries in the global rankings on the UN’s E-Government Development Index for 2024, which was published on Tuesday.
The Kingdom ranks first in the region, second among G20 countries and fourth globally on the digital services index. It also achieved seventh place on the e-participation index, and Riyadh ranked third among 193 cities worldwide.
The compilers of the index also praised Saudi Arabia for its significant developments in the field of digital government, thanks to which it ranked sixth in the world.
The Saudi minister of communications and information technology, Abdullah Al-Swaha, who also chairs the board of directors of the Digital Government Authority, thanked King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for their support of efforts by the technical and digital sectors to digitally transform government services, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
He said the leap forward to historically high rankings on the UN index was in particular the result of the support and empowerment provided by the crown prince, in keeping with the objectives of the Saudi Vision 2030 plan for national development and diversification, for efforts to establish and enhance the Kingdom’s role as an influential leader in the digital economy, regionally and globally.
The governor of the Digital Government Authority, Ahmed Alsuwaiyan, said that the nation’s continued progress in the index rankings reflects the desire of the Saudi leadership to provide the best possible digital government services. In particular he praised Saudi Vision 2030 for the significant effects it has had on improving the Kingdom’s position on the index.
Since the launch of Vision 2030 in 2016, Saudi Arabia has also climbed 53 places on the Telecommunications Infrastructure Index. In addition, the country has made notable progress on the Human Capital Index, advancing 31 places, and improved its position on the Online Service Index by 67 places to achieve fourth place globally this year.
The UN report noted that the maturity of digital government regulations in the Kingdom has reached a level of 100 percent, as has the accessibility and sharing of open government data with citizens and business sectors. Saudi Arabia also advanced 60 places on the index in terms e-participation and consultation with individuals and the business community.
The E-Government Development Index, which is published every two years, has been viewed as one of the most important international indicators of its kind for more than 20 years. It provides measure of the effects of structural reforms on productivity, efficiency and user experience as a result of the development of digital government frameworks and services in UN member states.
Source:arabnews.com
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://www.arabnews.com/node/2571785/saudi-arabia
---------
Saudi Arabia’s Commander of Joint Forces visits officers wounded in Yemen operation
September 17, 2024
RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Commander of the Joint Forces, Lt. Gen. Fahad bin Hamad Al-Salman, visited injured officers at Prince Sultan Military Medical City on Tuesday, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
The officers suffered injuries during Operation Decisive Storm and Operation Restoring Hope in Yemen.
Operation Decisive Storm, launched in March 2015, was led by Saudi Arabia to combat the Houthi militia in Yemen at the request of President Abdrabbuh Mansur Hadi, who has since stepped down. In April 2015, the campaign evolved into Operation Restoring Hope, aimed at reinstating Yemen’s internationally recognized government in Sanaa.
During the visit, Al-Salman checked on the officers’ well-being, expressing his deep gratitude. “You are the nation’s heroes, and what you endured in defense of your religion, king, and country is a badge of honor,” he said.
He also conveyed the leadership’s greetings and appreciation, wishing the injured a swift recovery and good health.
The wounded officers thanked Al-Salman for the visit and reaffirmed their readiness to return to the battlefield once they have fully recovered.
Source:arabnews.com
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://www.arabnews.com/node/2571720/saudi-arabia
---------
Madinah workshop explores AI’s role in farms of the future
September 17, 2024
JEDDAH: The use of artificial intelligence to revolutionize agriculture, cutting costs and improving efficiency, has been highlighted at a workshop held as part of the Madinah Dates Season.
The workshop, held at the Madinah Chamber of Commerce, brought together Prince Muqrin bin Abdulaziz University faculty, researchers, and AI enthusiasts to discuss the future of farming.
AI tools designed to monitor crop health, detect early signs of disease, and offer insights for treatment were showcased at the workshop, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Tuesday.
Devices predicting pest activity were also presented, enabling farmers to implement targeted control strategies, reducing crop losses and chemical use.
Experts explored the role of advanced electronic systems in revolutionizing Saudi agriculture, enhancing sustainability, addressing challenges, and boosting local production.
As part of this year’s Madinah Dates Season, the workshop also raised awareness of date palm varieties, nutritional value, and agricultural practices.
A dates hackathon, aiming to utilize AI in agriculture and resource management, will run until Oct. 3, with 233 teams of innovators, programmers, and students taking part.
The event's first track focuses on creating data sets to improve date cultivation and quality, aiming for sustainable agricultural development through AI systems that enhance efficiency and cut costs.
The second track addresses challenges such as water use, pest management, and crop monitoring, promoting smart systems for irrigation and automated processes.
Entries will be judged by AI experts on data quality, diversity, and innovation, with awards for the top three teams in each track. The prize pool is SR900,000 ($240,000).
The Madinah Dates Season, organized by the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture, features auctions of harvests from more than 29,000 farms, showcasing a range of date varieties.
Traditional Saudi arts, and palm waste recycling are also featured as part of the three-month season.
Madinah, with 6.5 million palm trees and an annual production of 263,000 tonnes, is central to Saudi Arabia’s food security goals and Vision 2030.
Source:arabnews.com
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://www.arabnews.com/node/2571718/saudi-arabia
---------
Authorities warn of thunderstorms, hail across Saudi Arabia until Sunday
September 18, 2024
RIYADH: The Saudi Civil Defense warned of thunderstorms across the Kingdom until Sunday as the country experiences cooler autumn weather.
The authorities urged people to avoid areas susceptible to flooding, not to swim in open water, and to follow instructions issued through social media channels.
The Makkah region is expected to receive heavy rain that may lead to torrential downpours, hail, and strong winds.
moderate-to-heavy rain expected to affect the Baha, Asir, and Jazan regions, while Najran and Madinah regions might see drizzle to moderate rain.
September 1st signaled the official start of autumn in Saudi Arabia.
The season is usually rainy, with rapid fluctuations in weather patterns, providing much-needed respite from the heat, according to the National Center for Meteorology.
Temperatures are anticipated to remain elevated until the middle of the month, with significant fluctuations expected in temperature.
Source:arabnews.com
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://www.arabnews.com/node/2571822/saudi-arabia
--------
Saudi crown prince to deliver annual royal address at Shoura Council on Wednesday
September 17, 2024
RIYADH: Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman will deliver an annual royal address to inaugurate the first year of the ninth session of the Shoura Council on Wednesday.
The crown prince will deliver the address on behalf of King Salman and it will cover the Kingdom’s domestic and foreign policies and its positions on regional and international issues, Saudi Press Agency reported.
Shoura Council Speaker Abdullah bin Mohammed bin Ibrahim Al Al-Sheikh said the council is guided by the contents of the royal address every year in its work, discussions, and decisions.
Source:arabnews.com
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://www.arabnews.com/node/2571792/saudi-arabia
--------
Course bids to enhance hiking safety at Saudi royal reserve
September 17, 2024
RIYADH: The Imam Abdulaziz bin Mohammed Royal Reserve Development Authority, in collaboration with the Saudi Climbing and Hiking Federation, has hosted a two-day hiking risk assessment course at King Khalid Royal Reserve.
Some 25 participants, including tourist guides, hiking enthusiasts and local community members, attended the event to obtain skills in identifying hazards faced by outdoor sports practitioners, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Tuesday.
The course covered risk analysis, avoiding common hiking mistakes, and safety strategies, including emergency risk management.
A key component was a five-step risk assessment process: identifying hazards, assessing who might be at risk, evaluating hazard levels, controlling and mitigating risks, and applying these skills in simulations of diverse terrains.
The course highlighted the ongoing collaboration between the two bodies to enhance skills in tourism activities at reserves.
Source:arabnews.com
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://www.arabnews.com/node/2571790/saudi-arabia
---------
North America
Rights groups condemn US senator for extremism allegation against Muslim advocate
18 September, 2024
Republican U.S. Senator John Kennedy accused a leading Muslim civil rights advocate of supporting extremism during a Senate hearing on hate incidents in the U.S., drawing criticism from many rights groups.
"You support Hamas, do you not?" Kennedy told Arab American Institute Executive Director Maya Berry, who replied by saying: "You asking the executive director of the Arab American Institute that question very much puts the focus on the issue of hate in our country."
In a follow-up question, the senator asked, "You support Hezbollah, too, don't you?" He later told her, "You should hide your head in a bag."
Berry repeatedly said in her responses that she did not support those groups, and added that she found the line of questioning "extraordinarily disappointing."
Hamas, which carried out a deadly Oct. 7 attack on Israel, and Hezbollah are both designated as "foreign terrorist organizations" by the U.S. government.
Multiple rights advocates denounced Senator Kennedy.
"It is absolutely reprehensible that a U.S. senator would weaponize the racial identity of a witness and accuse her of supporting terrorism by using an anti-Arab and anti-Muslim trope in a hearing meant to tackle precisely that kind of bigotry," Council on American Islamic Relations Government Affairs Director Robert McCaw told news agency Reuters.
"This harassment is alarming," Muslim American advocacy group Engage Action said.
The Democratic-led Senate Judiciary Committee, which organized Tuesday's hearing, also condemned the senator and called Berry's response to him "powerful."
Rights advocates have warned about rising threats against American Muslims, Arabs and Jews since the eruption of Israel's war in Gaza.
U.S. incidents in recent months include the attempted drowning of a 3-year-old Muslim girl in Texas, the fatal stabbing of a 6-year-old Muslim boy in Illinois, the stabbing of a Muslim man in Texas, the beating of a Muslim man in New York, threats of violence against Jews at Cornell University that led to a conviction and sentencing, and an unsuccessful plot to attack a New York City Jewish center.
Source:newarab.com
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://www.newarab.com/news/rights-groups-condemn-senators-extremism-claim-against-muslim
---------
CAIR-Austin Applauds Official Listing of First Muslim Polling Location in Williamson County
Ibrahim Hooper
September 17, 2024
The Austin chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-Austin) today applauded the official listing of the Islamic Center of Brushy Creek (ICBC) as the first Muslim polling location in Williamson County that will be serving for the first time on the Nov. 5th election day.
“I have enjoyed my role in bridging the communication between the mosque and the election division, and I want to applaud Williamson County Election Division staff, especially the Field Supervisor Kristine Heimerman, for their enthusiasm in working with diverse local communities. I have seen an increasing interest in election among the Muslim community this year. CAIR-Austin wants to facilitate and encourage this positive change,” said Shaimaa Zayan, Operations Manager with CAIR-Austin. “A part of our mission is to empower American Muslims and increase their civic engagement,” she added.
“We are excited to serve the Cedar Park community, Muslims and non-Muslims. It is like giving back to our city. Our center was established in 2007, and we have regular visitors of 400 Muslim families living within a 10 miles radius of our facility. Our Muslim community is a part of the American fabric and our participation in the democratic process is essential,” said Rabia Shaik, an ICBC board member.
“For me, I am familiar with the process as this will be my third time to vote, but I know voting can be intimidating especially if you are doing it for the first time. ICBC is a safe and familiar place for our community. I believe this will encourage more Muslim voters to come out. It is also exciting to share the space with Williamson County voters regardless of their religion or ethnicity,” said Abrar Eltilib, an ICBC community member and a mom of two children.
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
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://www.cair.com/press_releases/cair-austin-applauds-official-listing-of-first-muslim-polling-location-in-williamson-county/
--------
Tomgram: Juan Cole, A Centrist Muslim Alliance Against an Extremist Israel?
SEPTEMBER 17, 2024
This article originally appeared at TomDispatch.com. To receive TomDispatch in your inbox three times a week, click here.
Here’s a strange connection between Israel and the United States. Let me put it to you as a kind of quiz: Which two leaders on this planet have, at least in part, organized their political lives to avoid trial convictions and/or possible jail time? Yes, in case you hadn’t guessed, I’m thinking of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the former American president and once again candidate Donald Trump.
With that in mind, consider the mayhem, the literal hell on earth, that one of those two has already caused due, at least in part, to his desire not to find himself convicted in a corruption trial — and don’t hold your breath waiting for the other to repeat that, in his own fashion, whether he wins or loses the American presidency in November. At least Benjamin Netanyahu has only one trial, still ongoing in the background of the present war in Gaza and the West Bank. Donald Trump, on the other hand, has so many of them that it’s hard to count. Only the other day the judge in his New York State bribery trial, where he has indeed been found guilty of 34 felony counts, put off his sentencing from September 18th to November 26th, after the election is over. That means on Election Day, despite facing 91 felony counts across four criminal cases, he will remain a “free” man.
Of course, should Donald Trump win this November, he can shut down the ongoing federal trials completely (a good reason for him to deny losing, no matter what the vote count may be) and, like Netanyahu, potentially distract us all from his personal problems by, starting in January 2025, committing mayhem on this planet.
And with that in mind, consider it a kind of hell on Earth that Benjamin Netanyahu’s all-out war on a strip of land 25 miles long and only four to seven miles wide is about to enter its 12th month and, as TomDispatch regular Juan Cole, creator of the must-read Informed Comment website, suggests today, is causing both chaos and a changing set of alliances in the Middle East (in which the United States could prove to be a big loser). Tom
The Sphinx and the Sultan
Source:warisacrime.org
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://warisacrime.org/2024/09/17/tomgram-juan-cole-a-centrist-muslim-alliance-against-an-extremist-israel/
---------
Whistleblower testifies Titan sub tragedy was 'inevitable'
Ana Faguy
SEPTEMBER 18, 2024
A former employee of the company behind the doomed Titan submersible has told a public hearing he believed a safety incident was "inevitable" as the firm "bypassed" all standard rules.
OceanGate's former operations director David Lochridge testified to US Coast Guard investigators that he had warned of potential safety problems before he was fired in 2018, but was ignored.
Five people on board the Titan sub died when the experimental deep-sea craft imploded in June 2023 as it began a planned descent to the wreck of the Titanic.
The public hearings began on Monday as part of a two-week inquiry by the US Coast Guard into the disaster. The investigation has been going on for 15 months.
Mr Lochridge's highly anticipated testimony on Tuesday marked his first time speaking out publicly since raising concerns with his former employer.
He was fired from OceanGate and sued by the company for revealing confidential information. He countersued for wrongful dismissal.
A key former employee of the company, he had been asked by the CEO, Stockton Rush, to assemble a quality inspection report in 2018 of the Titan.
US court documents show Mr Lochridge had major concerns with the Titan's design, including the fact it was made from carbon fibre, warning that the material would damage further with every dive.
On Tuesday, he told US Coast Guard investigators the "whole idea" of OceanGate was "to make money".
"There was very little in the way of science," he said.
Mr Lochridge also accused the company and its CEO of "arrogance", saying they refused to work with experts at the University of Washington to develop the Titan submersible and opted to do all the engineering in house.
"They think they could do this on their own without proper engineering support," he said.
He testified his relationship with the company began breaking down in 2016 because he raised concerns about safety, saying he was probably labelled "the troublemaker" for being outspoken.
Mr Lockridge was one of as many as 10 former OceanGate employees, including co-founder Guillermo Sohnlein, and experts in marine safety and undersea exploration expected to speak to the Coast Guard's Marine Board of Investigations (MBI).
On Monday, officials detailed communications between the Titan and its mother ship, the Polar Prince.
It was revealed "all good here" was one of the final messages from the submersible before it imploded.
OceanGate’s former engineering director Tony Nissen told the hearing that he once refused to get into the sub several years before Titan’s last trip.
“‘I’m not getting in it,’” Mr Nissen said he told the company CEO, Rush, also testifying that he had felt pressured to get the vessel ready to dive.
While offering a historical look at the Titan, officials noted it was never subject to third-party testing and had been left exposed to weather and other elements while in storage.
They noted that during 13 dives to the Titanic in 2021 and 2022, the submersible had 118 equipment issues.
Officials also offered a handful of specific examples of submersible failures including its batteries dying and leaving passengers stuck inside for 27 hours.
As well as OceanGate's CEO, British explorer Hamish Harding, veteran French diver Paul Henri Nargeolet, the British-Pakistani businessman Shahzada Dawood and his 19-year-old son Suleman were on board the ship.
OceanGate suspended all exploration and commercial operations following the incident.
Source:bbc.com
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cvgl08wg4kqo
--------
Biden calls on Sudan’s warring parties to re-engage in negotiations
September 18, 2024
WASHINGTON: US President Joe Biden on Tuesday called on Sudan’s warring parties to re-engage in negotiations to end a war that has been ongoing for more than 17 months.
“We call for all parties to this conflict to end this violence and refrain from fueling it, for the future of Sudan and for all of the Sudanese people,” Biden said in a statement.
“I call on the belligerents responsible for Sudanese suffering— the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF)— to pull back their forces, facilitate unhindered humanitarian access, and re-engage in negotiations to end this war.”
More than 12,00 people have been killed across Sudan since the war started on April 15, 2023.
The conflict began when competition between Sudan’s army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), which had previously shared power after staging a coup, flared into open warfare.
Biden said the RSF’s assault is disproportionately harming Sudanese civilians and called on the armed forces to stop “indiscriminate” bombings that are destroying civilian lives and infrastructure.
The US previously determined that the two sides committed war crimes and sanctioned 16 individuals and entities tied to the war.
Biden said the United States will continue to evaluate further atrocity allegations and potential additional sanctions.
Source:arabnews.com
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://www.arabnews.com/node/2571824/middle-east
---------
Africa
Situation under control following Bamako attack by al-Qaida affiliate
18 September 2024
Mali's capital sustained early Tuesday (Sep. 17) a terrorist attack carried by Al-Quaida affiliate group JNIM.
Citing a security official, AP reported that both the Faladié gendarme school and the military base near the Modibo Keita Senou airport were targetted.
Later in the day, the situation was under control and the army chief of staff visited the camp where he urged to fight division and amalgams
“I'm telling the Malian people that this attack was done on purpose. and that we're all Malians and we mustn't let people pit us against each other, so we must avoid amalgams.”
General Oumar Diarra also called on the residents to provide information to the authorities: "I'm asking the population to provide information. I think their support has been very substantial, allowing us to pick up suspects here and there. The investigations are ongoing."
"All the terrorists" who raided the school were " neutralized".
Students were killed as well as soldiers, a statement read on national broadcaster ORTM 1 said.
Speaking on condition of anonimity to AP, an official confirmed “material damage,” was also recorded but did not provided specifics.
At least 15 suspects were arrested, the source added.
The JNIM militant group released a video which it says shows fighters setting fire on a presidential plane and pavilion near the airport in Bamako.
The army said that it was conducting a security sweep after fighting off gunmen.
This is the first attack in Bamako in years as terror groups seek to heap pressure on Mali's military.
It comes a few days before the country's Independence Day scheduled on September 22.
In 2022, gunmen struck a Malian army checkpoint about 60 kilometers (40 miles) outside the city, killing at least six people and wounding several others. In 2015, another al-Qaida linked extremist group killed at least 20 people, including one American, during an attack on a hotel in Bamako.
Source:africanews.com
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://www.africanews.com/2024/09/18/situation-under-control-following-bamako-attack-by-al-qaida-affiliate/
---------
Mosque attack: Kano presents four witnesses to testify against arsonist
September 17, 2024
By Bashir Bello
KANO – Kano State government, Tuesday, presented four witnesses to testify against arsonist Shafiu Abubakar before an Upper Sharia court sitting in the state.
The Prosecution counsel and the Director Public Prosecution (DPP) Kano State Ministry of Justice, Salisu Tahir, presented the witnesses when the matter came up before the court.
The Kano State government had dragged Abubakar, 38-year-old to court on four count charges bordering on culpable homicide, attempted murder, causing grievous hurt and mischief by fire.
The offence were said to contravened the provisions of sections 140, 148, 167 and 370 of Kano State Shari’a Penal Code Law 2000.
The Prosecution Witness, PW1, Abdulaziz Yahaya, 55, Ward Head of Gadan Larabar Abasawa Village, told the court that on May 15, at about 5:45 am after prayer, he was informed that a mosque had been set on fire.
“On reaching the scene, I saw many people outside with burns and we rushed them to the Sir Muhammad Sunusi Hospital Kano.
“They were later transferred to the Murtala Muhammad Specialist Hospital for treatment.
“23 people died while receiving treatment. The defendant surrendered himself to Gezawa Police Division.
“I was in a mosque in front of my house when the incident happened,” he said.
Also testifying, the PW3, Shu’aibu Ibrahim, 25, testified that the defendant set the mosque on fire with petrol after the first raka’at prayer.
The PW4, Ibrahim Salisu, 23, said that after the incident, he ran out of the mosque to seek for help.
The defence counsel, Malam Hasiya Muhammad, cross-examined the PW1 – PW4.
Meanwhile, the presiding judge, Halhalatu Zakariyya, however adjourned the matter until 24th September, 2024, for continuation of cross examination.
Recall that Abubakar, was said to have allegedly sprayed a mosque in Gezawa area of Kano State with petrol, locked the door, and set the mosque on fire while the worshippers were observing their morning prayers (Subhi prayers), trapping over 30 of the worshippers inside the mosque and resulting in the death of 23.\Source:
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
Source:vanguardngr.com
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://www.vanguardngr.com/2024/09/mosque-attack-kano-presents-four-witnesses-to-testify-against-arsonist/
---------
‘No More Excuses’ – TY Danjuma Charges CDS Musa To End Banditry, Violence
17 September 2024
By Ikenna Ngere
Former Chief of Army Staff, Retired General Theophilus Yakubu Danjuma, has called on the military leadership, headed by Chief of Defense Staff (CDS) General Christopher Musa, to bring an end to the ongoing banditry and killings plaguing the nation “as soon as possible.”
The 85-year-old made this demand on Tuesday in Abuja during the launch of a book titled Big Boots: Lessons From My Military Service, authored by retired Major General Solomon Udounwa.
Speaking directly to both serving and retired military officials present, including General Musa, Danjuma emphasized that the responsibility to halt the violent activities of bandits and marauders rests squarely on the shoulders of the current officers.
The former COAS said, “We must end the banditry and the killings that are going on in our country as soon as possible.
“The responsibilities are on your shoulders; those of you who are still servicing. No excuses, absolutely no excuses. God bless you. God bless our country.”
In response, CDS General Musa reassured Danjuma and those in attendance that the Nigerian Armed Forces remain fully committed to confronting the challenges of banditry and terrorism.
He vowed that the military would not be discouraged or defeated in their mission to restore peace and security.
“The Armed Forces of Nigeria is willing, dedicated and committed to ensuring that we restore peace and security in our own dear country.
“We shall not be deterred. I want to assure you that we have learnt so much from your records. We cannot afford to fail and we will not fail,” Gen Musa told TY Danjuma.
Nigeria’s North-West and North-Central regions have become notorious for violent groups known as bandits, who engage in widespread kidnappings, killings, and other acts of terror.
According to a report by SBM Intelligence, a security research firm, Nigerians paid approximately ₦1.04 billion in ransom to kidnappers over the past year.
The report further revealed that at least 7,568 individuals were abducted in 1,130 incidents nationwide during that period.
Source:naijanews.com
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://www.naijanews.com/2024/09/17/no-more-excuses-ty-danjuma-charges-cds-musa-to-end-banditry-violence/
---------
Dangote refinery begins gasoline sales to Nigeria's domestic market
18 September 2024
Nigeria's 650,000 b/d Dangote refinery has begun selling gasoline domestically, with state-owned NNPC as the sole buyer. NNPC is paying Dangote in US dollars for September gasoline deliveries, with a crude-for-gasoline swap starting in October to be settled in naira.
The refinery's ex-refinery price for gasoline is set at $736/t, or 898.78 naira/litre ($0.55/l), with a retail price of N950.22/l in Lagos, reflecting recent price hikes due to reduced government subsidies. Gasoline pricing is negotiated directly between parties under Nigeria's Petroleum Industry Act.
NNPC has relied heavily on imports for domestic gasoline supply but hopes Dangote's operations will reduce this dependence. While the refinery aims to meet domestic demand, it is still ramping up production, supplying 16mn litres over the weekend, far below its full capacity of 57mn l/d.
Full operations are expected by October or November once the residual fluid catalytic cracker (RFCC) becomes fully functional. NNPC will supply Dangote with 385,000 b/d of crude starting in October, with gasoline sold exclusively to NNPC for domestic distribution. Diesel will be available to other buyers.
Source:africanews.com
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://www.africanews.com/2024/09/17/dangote-refinery-begins-gasoline-sales-to-nigerias-domestic-market/
--------
Southeast Asia
Muhyiddin: Govt Mou Prohibits Discrimination, So Perikatan Mps Can’t Challenge Any LGBT-Friendly Policies If We Agree To It
17 Sep 2024
KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 17 — Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin has today said that Perikatan Nasional (PN) MPs are worried that they will not be able to oppose any lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT)- friendly policies if they sign the memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the government.
The PN chairman said PN takes issue with the part of the MoU prohibiting Opposition MPs from making statements that discriminate against any parties based on their religion, race, and identity.
“This MoU introduces elements that are conflicting with Asian societal values, which are strongly rooted in moral and religious principles,” he claimed in a statement here.
“This ‘other identity’ includes the LGBT. Does this mean that if PN MPs agree to this draft MoU, they would not be able to oppose any future policies or laws the government might enact to allow LGBT behaviours?”
Muhyiddin had also claimed that the conditions for Opposition MPs to not spread hate speech by touching on the so-called “3R issues” — race, religion and royalty — is an attempt to silence them from speaking up on the rights of Malays, Muslims and the Malay Rulers.
“What right does the government have to prevent PN MPs from advocating for issues enshrined in the Federal Constitution through their voices in the Dewan Rakyat?” he asked.
“Is the government trying to erase the history of Malaysia’s formation, dismantle the foundation of a peaceful and harmonious nation, deny the special position of the Malays and Bumiputera, and the legitimate rights of other races, and subtly rewrite the country’s constitution through this MoU?”
Yesterday, the government released drafts of the MoU to demonstrate its transparency in the negotiations regarding allocations for Opposition MPs.
Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof, who is also the government chief whip, said that the decision to release the drafts came in response to Opposition Leader Datuk Seri Hamzah Zainudin’s statement that PN had rejected the proposed MoU.
The Opposition had unanimously rejected the draft MoU for four fundamental reasons, alleging that it contradicts the Federal Constitution and that some conditions in the MoU could potentially affect the special rights of Malays and Bumiputeras.
Fadillah stressed that the primary purpose of the MoU was to create a harmonious atmosphere in the Dewan Rakyat, enabling all MPs to focus on economic recovery efforts and play a more effective check-and-balance role.
Source:malaymail.com
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2024/09/17/muhyiddin-govt-mou-prohibits-discrimination-so-perikatan-mps-cant-challenge-any-lgbt-friendly-policies-if-we-agree-to-it/150735
---------
Ustaz pleads not guilty to charge of molesting practical teacher
18-09- 2024
PETALING JAYA: A private religious studies centre chairman pleaded not guilty at the Port Dickson magistrate’s court, today, after being charged with molesting a practical teacher, last month.
The accused who is also a ustaz (religious teacher) Mohd Hafidz Eshak, 44, pleaded not guilty as soon as the charges were read before Magistrate Uthman Abd Ghani.
According to several media reports, Hafidz was charged with using criminal force to outrage the modesty of the 19-year-old teacher at the same religious centre at about 6.40pm on August 18.
He faces a jail term of up to 10 years or a fine or whipping or any of the two if found guilty.
Deputy public prosecutor Azriff Firdaus Ali requested the court to fix bail at RM50,000, while his lawyer, Hanif Hassan requested the bail to be lowered to RM3,000.
Hanif also denied that the accused had any links with the controversial Global Ikhwan Services and Business Holdings (GISBH).
Uthman then set bail at RM4,000 and fixed October 17 for case management.
Source:thesun.my
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://thesun.my/local-news/ustaz-pleads-not-guilty-to-charge-of-molesting-practical-teacher-GD13013731
--------
Lawyer claims Najib denied fair trial; alleges MACC’s 1MDB probe was shoddy, biased and incomplete
18 Sep 2024
KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 18 — Former prime minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak was denied the right to fair trial in his trial over 1Malaysia Development Berhad’s (1MDB) RM2.2 billion funds, as the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) had allegedly carried out a biased and shoddy investigation against him, his lawyer claimed today.
Najib’s lawyer Wan Azwan Aiman Wan Fakhruddin today argued that MACC’s investigating officer Senior Superintendent Nur Aida Arifin’s investigation on his client’s 1MDB case was “biased, selective, shoddy and incomplete”.
In the High Court, Wan Azwan Aiman claimed that the alleged shoddy investigation had deprived Najib of his “constitutionally-guaranteed right to a fair investigation and fair trial”.
The lawyer argued Nur Aida’s investigation was biased, as he claimed there was a “predetermined intention” to bring Najib to court and press charges against him regardless of the 1MDB investigation’s outcome.
In making this argument, the lawyer cited the MACC investigator’s August 28, 2018 submission of the investigation paper and the proposed charges to the Attorney General’s Chambers (AGC) and the AGC’s September 19, 2018 granting of consent to charge Najib.
The lawyer said both those events took place before Najib’s statement to the MACC under Section 53(3) of the MACC Act 2009 was completed on September 20, 2018 at 8.10am.
“I must remind Yang Arif, this court again, that 20 September 2018 was also the date on which Datuk Seri Najib was brought to court to be charged.
“When the investigation papers were brought to AGC for their consideration, Datuk Seri Najib’s statement under Section 53 did not form part of that consideration for the charges to be levelled against him. Naturally his explanation was also not reduced in writing to be considered by the AGC, Yang Arif,” he argued.
“When cross-examined, Nur Aida confirmed our suspicion that Datuk Seri Najib was charged in court on the very same day, in fact immediately after they had finished recording the statement.
“And she also confirmed that consent to prosecute was issued a day before they finished recording Datuk Seri Najib’s statement,” he later said.
He argued that this showed that the recording of Najib’s MACC statement was “treated as nothing more than a mere formality and a purely administrative task”.
Stressing that the AGC’s issuing of the consent to charge Najib was issued before the MACC finished recording his statement, Wan Azwan Aiman claimed that there was a “flaw” in Najib’s statement to the MACC.
The lawyer also claimed the investigation was biased as Najib was not alerted about the possible charges that he may face when the MACC recorded his statement.
The lawyer said it is a requirement under the MACC Act’s Section 53(3) for notice to be given to an individual of the charges which they would be prosecuted with.
He said such notice of the potential charges was necessary to allow an accused person to have a fair opportunity to answer the allegations against him and to prevent his defence from being labelled as an “afterthought”.
“Datuk Seri Najib has not been alerted to the section to which he is being investigated for and to which he is supposed to be charged. Bearing in mind, charges have been drafted and consent has been issued, so what is the problem of alerting Datuk Seri Najib to the charges or at least to the section for which he is to be charged,” he said.
He also claimed Najib was deprived of a right to fair trial as the MACC’s Nur Aida allegedly did not carry out a thorough investigation on Najib’s defence in the 1MDB case.
“Her investigation therefore could not be said to be satisfactory, complete, judicious and fair,” he argued, also claiming that her investigation was focused on establishing Najib’s guilt.
Among other things, Wan Azwan Aiman cited past court decisions stating that investigation should be carried out impartially and also be focused on evidence that favours an accused person, and not just on evidence that point to the accused person’s guilt.
Najib, who was in a wheelchair and was on sick leave for four days last week due to pain in his right knee, was seen seated outside the accused’s dock on a chair with a cane.
Najib’s 1MDB trial before judge Datuk Collin Lawrence Sequerah resumes this afternoon.
Source:malaymail.com
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2024/09/18/lawyer-claims-najib-denied-fair-trial-alleges-maccs-1mdb-probe-was-shoddy-biased-and-incomplete/150810
--------
PJ court back in media spotlight as trial of Zayn Rayyan’s parents resumes
18 Sep 2024
KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 18 — The Petaling Jaya Magistrates’ Court has once again become the centre of media attention for the trial involving the parents of Zayn Rayyan Abdul Matiin on Wednesday.
The courthouse grounds were filled with members of the media, who began arriving as early as 8.40am to cover the case developments, according to a report published in Sinar Harian today.
Additionally, court security officers were seen guarding the entrance of the complex.
On June 13, Zayn Rayyan’s parents, Zaim Ikhwan Zahari and Ismanira Abdul Manaf, pleaded not guilty to charges of neglecting Zayn Rayyan.
The alleged offence occurred around Jalan PJU 10/1 Damansara Damai in Petaling Jaya, between 12pm on December 5 and 9.55pm on December 6 of last year.
The charges were brought under Section 31(1)(a) of the Child Act 2001, and the parents could be punished under Section 31(1) of the same act, read together with Section 34 of the Penal Code, which provides for a maximum fine of RM50,000 or up to 20 years in prison, or both, if found guilty.
On December 6, 2023, Zayn Rayyan was found dead in a stream near Idaman Apartments, Damansara Damai, at around 10pm.
The victim had been reported missing in the residential area before being discovered lying in the stream, about 200 metres from his apartment block.
Police confirmed the victim was murdered, as an autopsy revealed injuries on the child’s neck and body consistent with criminal activity.
Following this, Zayn Rayyan’s parents were arrested on May 31 and remanded for 13 days starting June 1 to assist in the investigation.
Source:malaymail.com
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2024/09/18/pj-court-back-in-media-spotlight-as-trial-of-zayn-rayyans-parents-resumes/150779
---------
URL: https://www.newageislam.com/islamic-world-news/religion-qr-code-waqf-digital/d/133227