Pakistan Federal Shariat Court Declares Custom of Giving Away A Minor Girl to Settle Disputes (Swara) As Un-Islamic
New
Age Islam News Bureau
26
October 2021
New Age Islam News Bureau
26
October 2021
The Federal Shariat Court bench held that Ulema
had developed a consensus that vani, or swara, was against the teachings of
Islam. — Illustration by Abro/File
------
•
Egypt’s Dar al-Ifta Denounces Fatwa on Marital Intimacy, Says, It Needs to Be
Consensual
•
Construction of a Youth Centre by the Maulana Mehmood Madani Faction of Jamiat
Ulema-e-Hind Triggers a Row
•
Taliban Officials Celebrate Afghan National Cricket Team Win but Kabul Streets
Subdued
•
Religious Council of Singapore Fatwa: Tudung-wearing Muslim Nurses Must Keep
Forearms Bare for Patients’ Safety
Pakistan
•
Pakistan's Win against India in T20 A 'Victory of Islam', says Pakistan's
Interior Minister
•
Sheikh Hasina desires stronger trade ties between Bangladesh, Pakistan
•
Punjab police dismayed at govt’s repeated ‘surrender’ to TLP
•
Taliban scheme gives further credibility to Pakistan’s call for aid to
Afghanistan
•
State dept lauds Pakistan for assisting evacuation flights
•
Pakistan desires to maintain bilateral ties with Canada: COAS
--------
Arab World
•
Syrian Grand Mufti: Those Who Forget Palestine Today, Will Forget Holy Mecca
Tomorrow
•
Ex-Saudi official makes damaging allegations against crown prince
•
UAE’s air force chief to witness Israel’s largest-ever exercise
•
Egypt's President Sisi ends state of emergency for the first time in years
•
Hosting UAE Air Force chief, Israel sees airpower cooperation
•
Arab coalition says 105 Houthis killed in Marib battle
--------
India
•
In Tripura, Police Provide Security to Mosques after Stray Attacks Reported
•
T20 World Cup: Mohammed Shami Faces Vicious Online Abuse after India's Loss To Pakistan
•
J&K: Grenade attack by terrorists in Bandipora; few civilians injured
•
Retd Pakistan army personnel guiding terrorists' team in Poonch?
•
Kashmiri students attacked in Punjab after Pakistan defeated India in WC T20
--------
South Asia
•
Is the Islamic State in Afghanistan Targeting China?
•
Mullah Baradar meets UNDP director in Doha
•
13 more held for communal violence in Bangladesh
•
22.8 million Afghan people will face acute hunger: UN agency
--------
Southeast Asia
•
Wang Yi Meets with Acting Deputy Prime Minister of Afghan Taliban's Interim
Government Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar
•
Better a clean multiracial govt than a corrupt Malay-Muslim one, says Idris
--------
Mideast
•
Muslim Scholars Slam Israeli Demolition of Historic Cemetery In Jerusalem
•
Iran establishes new brigade in eastern Syria composed of local Shia converts
•
Islamic Jihad calls for clash with Israel over hunger-striking Palestinian
prisoners
•
Official Blasts UN Rapporteur for Politically-Tainted Report against Iran
•
Israel lifts its decade-long travel warning for Morocco
•
Iran, EU to meet in prelude to nuclear accord talks
•
Iranian court sentences man to 10 months’ jail, lashes for stealing cashews
--------
North America
•
Taliban Denial of Cooperating US in Controlling Al-Qaida Is War Announcement:
Lindsey Graham
•
US hits out at Sudan’s military after coup, freezes $700 mln in economic aid
•
Embassy in Khartoum advises American citizens to shelter in place
•
US seeking cooperation with Turkey on 'common priorities'
•
US calls for 'immediate release' of Sudan premier amid coup
--------
Africa
•
South Sudan calls for dialogue between Sudanese parties after coup attempt
•
Military kills 3, injures 80 during anti-coup protests in Sudan
•
Pan African body 'dismayed' over situation in Sudan
•
EU expresses 'utmost concern' over Sudan upheaval
•
Sudan general declares state of emergency, dissolves gov’t
•
Gunmen kill 18 at mosque in northern Nigeria's Niger state -residents
•
Uganda investigating Islamist link to bombing after IS responsibility claim
--------
Europe
•
Prince Charles to meet imam of Al-Azhar mosque and university next month
•
German Court Sentences Islamic State Member to 10 Years in Prison
•
Turkey rescues 79 irregular migrants pushed back by Greece
•
EU urges Israel to halt construction of new settlements
•
Germany condemns coup attempt in Sudan
Compiled
by New Age Islam News Bureau
URL: https://www.newageislam.com/islamic-world-news/swara-minor-girl-islamic-shariah-court/d/125648
---------
Pakistan Federal Shariat Court Declares Custom of Giving Away A Minor Girl to Settle Disputes (Swara) As Un-Islamic
Malik Asad
October 26, 2021
The Federal Shariat Court bench held that Ulema had developed a consensus that vani, or swara, was against the teachings of Islam. — Illustration by Abro/File
------
ISLAMABAD: The Federal Shariat Court (FSC) has declared the custom of giving away a minor girl to settle disputes (swara) as un-Islamic
A three-judge bench, headed by FSC Chief Justice Noor Mohammad Meskenzai, observed that the tradition of giving away a minor girl to settle disputes was against the injunctions of Islam.
Taking up a petition filed by one Sakeena Bibi, the bench held that Ulema had developed a consensus that vani, or swara, was against the teachings of Islam.
Swara is a custom where girls, often minors, are given in marriage or servitude to an aggrieved family as compensation to end disputes, often murder. It is a form of arranged or forced child marriage and the result of punishment decided by a council of tribal elders called jirga.
Says tradition of giving minor girl to settle dispute is against injunctions of Islam
The petitioner, a concerned citizen, challenged the custom of vani for many reasons. According to the petition, the tradition which is being practiced in jirgas and panchayat — the traditional fora for dispute resolution — usurps the fundamental rights of a woman or young girl.
It argued that jirga or panchayat misconstrued the concept ‘badl-i-sulah’ — compensation to settle a dispute by offering a young girl to the aggrieved family. The petitioner requested the court to declare this custom as illegal.
Dr Mohammad Aslam Khaki, Jurist Consult at FSC, said vani violated at least four fundamental rights. According to him, since the girl is offered by the accused family, she in most of the cases is deprived of even basic facilities, hence subjected to discrimination.
Secondly, she is wedded to a man without her consent. Thirdly, she is not entitled to dower, and fourthly, she cannot file legal suit for khula — dissolution of marriage.
According to Dr Khaki, the legitimate way to settle a murder is payment of diyat or blood money, which is acceptable in Islam; however, traditional forums for dispute resolution consider vani or swara as legitimate way to settle dispute. But Ulema do not accept the practice as Islamic.
Source: Dawn
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original story:
https://www.dawn.com/news/1654025/federal-shariat-court-declares-swara-as-un-islamic
--------
Egypt’s
Dar al-Ifta Denounces Fatwa on Marital Intimacy, Says, It Needs to Be
Consensual
October
26, 2021
Ragab Uwais poses for a picture with his bride
before a video cameraman for their wedding video along Al-Gamaa Bridge
connecting the Egyptian capital Cairo with its twin city of Giza, Egypt, June
11, 2020. - Khaled Desouki/AFP via Getty Images
-----
CAIRO
— A fatwa on the number of times a husband must have intercourse with his wife
according to Islamic law, which was issued Oct. 5 by a Facebook page concerned
with issuing unofficial religious fatwas, has sparked controversy in Egypt in
recent days.
The
fatwa came in response to a question posted by a Facebook user on the Qutooff
Fem page, an unofficial body, saying that her husband avoids having intercourse
with her and claims that it is not his duty to do so, and she is embarrassed to
keep asking him.
A
sheikh affiliated with the Facebook page replied, saying that there are different
views on this subject, as some say a husband should have intercourse with his
wife once every month, while others suggest that he should do so once every
four months.
The
page shortly blocked comments and removed the share option for the post after
all the controversy it sparked. However, the post had already gone viral.
The
Egyptian Dar al-Ifta, the official body for issuing religious fatwas, said in a
post on its official Facebook page Oct. 18 that Sharia made the intercourse
between a man and a woman a common right between spouses, noting that neither
of them can decide on their own, it needs to be consensual.
Dar
al-Ifta cited Surah Al-Baqarah from the Quran, noting, “And women have rights
similar to their obligations,” explaining that this noble verse indicates that
both husband and wife have marital rights, including the right to have
intercourse, which is not defined in a specific time frame.
Magdy
Ashour, adviser to Egypt's grand mufti, responded to the controversial fatwa in
an interview with "Al-Hekaya" show on MBC Egypt Oct. 18, saying,
“Extremist ideology neglects women. Marital intercourse is reciprocal; both men
and women should enjoy it.”
Ashour
described the fatwa as “abnormal,” noting that its purpose is to draw people's
attention, even if it is of false origin, as it aims to provoke, not raise
awareness.
He
denied all claims about the husband having to have intercourse with his wife
only once every four months, explaining, “A husband should understand his wife
from a single look and fulfill her desires and marital rights, without her
having to ask.”
Ashour
cited a scene from the life of the Prophet Muhammad when he went to the house
of his companion Uthman bin Mazoon and found his wife’s clothes worn out. Aisha
— one of the Prophet’s wives — asked her about the reason for that. The woman
said that Uthman prays at night and fasts during the day and does not approach
women. So the Prophet told him that he has time to pray, fast, approach women
and advised him to follow his Sunnah.
“As
long as there is no legitimate or health excuse, the husband must fulfill his
wife’s desires, and vice versa,” Ashour said. “We at Dar al-Ifta are working on
confronting the extremist ideology that perceives women as second-class
citizens.”
Reda
el-Danbouki, director of the Women's Center for Legal Guidance and Awareness,
told Al-Monitor that this type of fatwa views women as a reproductive machine
who does not have the right to enjoy intercourse.
He
said many in society are affected by clerics whether they are concerned with
issuing official or unofficial fatwas, which is why the state needs to take a
stance and combat these unofficial platforms as they incite against women.
Danbouki
noted, “It is necessary to warn these platforms to reconsider the religious
opinions they publish, which may cause problems that are difficult to control
or change later. Penalties should even be imposed on violators, especially
since most of these fatwas are just unfounded [laws].”
He
added, “We must implement the provisions of the constitution, including Article
53 and Article 11, and the law on equality and nondiscrimination, in addition
to establishing a nondiscrimination commission. Also, some provisions of the
Penal Code that severely punish women compared to men in some acts — such as
adultery mentioned in Article 276 — must be amended.”
Danbouki
concluded, “All these steps will contribute to changing how society perceives
women, who are often seen as inferior to men and merely a tool to serve their
lusts.”
Source:
Al Monitor
Please
click the following URL to read the text of the original story:
https://www.al-monitor.com/originals/2021/10/egypts-dar-al-ifta-denounces-fatwa-marital-intimacy
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Construction of a Youth Centre by the Maulana Mehmood Madani Faction of Jamiat Ulema-e-Hind Triggers a Row
By
Manish Sahu
October
26, 2021
Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind general secretary Maulana
Mahmood Madani
------
The
construction of a youth centre by the Maulana Mehmood Madani faction of Jamiat
Ulema-e-Hind in the village of Kendki in Saharanpur district’s Deoband area has
caused tensions to rise, with the district administration halting work on the
project around a week ago.
The
district authorities intervened after villagers, most of whom are Hindus,
objected to the construction of the youth centre. They claimed that the
builders did not obtain permission and legal formalities were not completed.
In
recent days, Hindu organisations have held meetings with the villagers and
raised objections. The BJP MLA from Deoband, Kunawar Brijesh Singh, has also
requested Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath to set up an inquiry committee.
The
village is around 20 km from the place where the state government decided in
August to set up a unit of the Anti-Terrorist Squad. However, Jamiat
Ulema-e-Hind’s Saharanpur general secretary Zaheen Ahmed said the organisation
had decided a year ago to build the youth centre. At the time, there was no
information about the ATS’s plans, he pointed out.
Deoband
Sub-Divisional Magistrate Rajesh Kumar on Monday said the construction work was
stopped following a complaint, and an inquiry was going on. He added, “I have
asked the organisation to submit all documents, including land papers and the
permission letter to open the youth centre at Kendki village. They have so far
not completed all documents.”
Kumar
said the villagers initially were apprehensive that a madrasa was being built
in their area.
Responding
to the rumours and allegations surrounding the project, Ahmed denied any
malicious intent on part of his outfit and alleged that a group of people were
circulating false news and confusing the villagers.
“Initially,
it was circulated that we are constructing a slaughterhouse on the land. When
we explained it, the group then circulated we are building a madrasa. We
explained to the public that it was also false. Now, they are again making a
false story and instigating the public. We are constructing a training centre
for the youth under Bharat Scouts and Guides, which will benefit people of all
society,” said Ahmed.
The
Jamiat official said the centre was proposed to be built over almost 15 acres
of land, and equipped with a playing ground, an athletic track, an adventure
park, and many other sports activities.
“The
centre will be for the people of all communities and religions. We have already
purchased four hectares of land and the deal on the remaining land is under
process. The construction of a kitchen at the site was going on when the
administration stopped the work after a complaint around a week back. The
administration asked us to provide documents related to the land and the
organisation. I submitted it on Saturday. The administration has so far not
given any directions,” said Ahmed added.
In
strident opposition to the Jamiat’s plans, Hindu organisations such as the
Bajrang Dal have mobilised their workers who have met the villagers and are
planning protests. A “Sangarsh Samiti” consisting of representatives from
various nearby villages has been formed. On Sunday, members of the Bajrang Dal,
which is affiliated with the Vishva Hindu Parishad, attended a meeting in
Kendki along with the residents of several other villages.
“The
Jamiat Ulema-e-Hind (Maulana Mehmood Madani faction) purchased the land
silently and started constructing without obtaining any permission from the
district administration. They purchased agricultural land, and without changing
its land use began the construction. We declared during the meeting held
yesterday in Kendki that regular meetings should be held till this project is
cancelled. We doubt the intention of the organisation,” said Vikas Tyagi, the
“prant sahyojak [a regional representative]” of Bajrang Dal for western UP.
He
added that while Kendki was Hindu-dominated most of the residents of the
surrounding villages were Muslims.
MLA
Kunwar Brijesh Singh also claimed that the Jamiat started construction in
Kendki without obtaining any permission. The organisation should explain its
motive for building the youth centre, he added.
“On
getting a complaint from a local resident, I got the construction work stopped.
I have requested the chief minister to form a committee that would look into
the matter,” Singh said.
Source:
Indian Express
Please
click the following URL to read the text of the original story:
--------
Taliban
Officials Celebrate Afghan National Cricket Team Win but Kabul Streets Subdued
Oct
26, 2021
Afghanistan players celebrate their win against
Scotland during the Cricket Twenty20 World Cup match in Sharjah, UAE, Monday,
Oct. 25, 2021. (AP Photo/Aijaz Rahi)
------
KABUL:
Taliban officials took to social media on Monday to congratulate the Afghan
national cricket team for winning a match in the Twenty20 World Cup, but there
was a muted response on the streets of Kabul where such wins were celebrated
enthusiastically in the past.
Afghanistan
beat Scotland in a match played in Sharjah in the United Arab Emirates - the
first major victory for the team since the Taliban takeover of the country.
While
the Taliban frown on many forms of public entertainment, cricket has always
been an exception, a game fighters followed closely E01D even during the war
whenever the national team was playing.
"Congratulations
to the team and wish them more success in the future," Taliban spokesman
Zabihullah Mujahid said on Twitter.
A
spokesman for the Taliban's Qatar office also joined in the praise, adding:
"We hope for similar and even higher achievements in other fields,
especially in the political, economic and scientific fields."
The
highest profile message came from Anas Haqqani, the younger brother of
Afghanistan's current acting Interior Minister Sirajuddin Haqqani - the head of
the Haqqani Network.
"Afghanistan
won," the younger Haqqani said.
The
Taliban's representative-designate to the United Nations Suhail Shaheen
tweeted: "Well done boys!"
However,
there was relative silence across Kabul, where such victories were previously
met with jubilation in the streets, fireworks and celebratory gunfire. There
were only a few, small fireworks seen in the Kabul sky.
The
streets were mostly empty or silent.
The
Taliban's foes also saw the victory as significant for the country. Amrullah
Saleh, the ex-vice president who became one of the leaders of the anti-Taliban
forces after the fall of Kabul, pointed out on Twitter that the cricket team
had sung a national anthem and raised a flag which are not recongnised by the
Taliban.
President
Ashraf Ghani, who fled the country in August, said the victory had "installed
new hopes in the hearts of all that this nation is alive and no one can hold it
hostage!"
Despite
years of violence and upheaval, Afghanistan has an enthusiastic and widespread
following of cricket and residents of Kabul were eagerly anticipating the
cricket world cup matches.
The
governing International Cricket Council (ICC) will meet next month to determine
the game's future in Afghanistan under the Taliban regime.
Source:
Times of India
Please
click the following URL to read the text of the original story:
--------
Religious
Council of Singapore Fatwa: Tudung-wearing Muslim Nurses Must Keep Forearms
Bare for Patients’ Safety
Ahmad
Zhaki Abdullah
26
Oct 2021
A Muslim woman in tudung waiting at a traffic
light on Aug 31, 2021. (Photo: Hanidah Amin)
------
SINGAPORE:
Muslim healthcare workers who choose to wear the tudung will have to comply
with clinical and safety requirements at the workplace, such as keeping their
forearms free from clothing to reduce the risk of infection.
This
is in accordance with a fatwa or religious guidance issued on Tuesday (Oct 26)
by the Islamic Religious Council of Singapore (MUIS), ahead of changes that
will allow Muslim nurses in the public healthcare sector to wear the headscarf
at work from November.
In
the fatwa, MUIS said it had received several questions about the specifics of
wearing the tudung in clinical settings.
It
noted that all Muslims who have reached puberty are religiously obligated to
cover their aurat, or modesty. For women, this typically includes all parts of
the body except for their hands and face.
It
acknowledged, however, that there are situations in which Muslim women would
not be able to fully cover themselves in such a way, especially in the
uniformed services.
“In
the healthcare sector, the COVID-19 pandemic has reinforced the dangers of
infection which can cause widespread harm,” said MUIS in the fatwa.
“For
nurses in particular, the risk of infection is very serious and poses a danger
to both nurses and patients.”
MUIS
noted that the Health Ministry has put in place clinical guidelines for wearing
the tudung on duty, including the “Bare Below the Elbow” policy.
“This
policy states that hands and arms up to the elbow should be exposed and free
from clothing or any jewellery. Sleeves should be short or rolled up securely
up to the elbow in order to allow access to the wrist for good hand hygiene
technique,” said MUIS.
All
healthcare workers are required to comply with this policy when interacting
with patients or when “likely to touch the immediate patient environment”, it
said.
Healthcare
authorities in other countries, including the National Health Service in the
United Kingdom, have introduced similar policies that are aimed at preventing
the spread of infection via contaminated clothing.
MUIS
also noted that there are religious views which allow for women’s arms to be
exposed when necessary.
“In
situations when the headscarf is required to be replaced with other forms of
head coverings (such as surgical caps worn in the operating theatre), or when
it needs to be removed due to clinical or other safety-related requirements,
this too is permitted,” it said.
“These
considerations permit the flexibility for Muslim officers to make some
adjustments without impacting work performance, whilst continuing to serve
professionally, securing good and avoiding harm, and displaying positive work
ethics in service.”
“CONSIDERED
JUDGMENTS” FOR OTHER SERVICES
Although
Muslim nurses will be allowed to wear the tudung at work, restrictions will
remain in other areas where uniforms are required - such as the Singapore Armed
Forces and Home Team agencies including the police.
Prime
Minister Lee Hsien Loong had explained in August that these agencies must be
seen to enforce the laws of Singapore without fear or favour, describing them
as the “impartial and secular arms of the State”.
MUIS
said that in these uniformed services, employees should make their own
“considered judgments”, based on work policies as well as reasons like the need
to work and serve the community and the country.
“They
are in a much better position to weigh their specific circumstances, and form
their own decisions based on the principles and values of the Shariah
(religious law),” it said.
MUIS
said that certain religious principles allow for women to stay in jobs that
enable them to sustain themselves and protect the stability of the country,
even if they are unable to wear the tudung.
“In
view of this position, our community should not coerce Muslim women to wear the
tudung whilst working or look down on those who do not do so. On the contrary,
the community should pray for their well-being, and for them to be able to
fulfil this religious obligation as best as possible,” it said.
Source:
Channel News Asia
Please
click the following URL to read the text of the original story:
https://www.channelnewsasia.com/singapore/muslim-nurses-tudung-uniform-guildines-muis-fatwa-2268872
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Pakistan
Pakistan's Win against India in T20 A 'Victory of Islam', says Pakistan's Interior Minister
October
25, 2021
Pakistan's
Interior Minister Sheikh Rasheed said the nation's win against India was a
'victory for Islam'. Rasheed made the statement soon after Pakistan won the
match by 10 wickets.
In
the video, which went viral on social media, Sheikh Rasheed said that the
sentiments of Muslims from around the world, including in India, were with the
Pakistani cricket team during the match.
"For
Pakistan, today's India-Pakistan match was the final," added the minister
Sheikh Rasheed. He also said that he had instructed security personnel to
remove barricades and "allow" citizens to celebrate the country's
victory in the cricket match.
The
video was uploaded after the impressive performance by Pakistani players
Mohammad Rizwan and skipper Babar Azam. The match was played at Dubai
International Cricket Stadium.
Source:
India Today
Please
click the following URL to read the full text of the original story:
--------
Sheikh
Hasina desires stronger trade ties between Bangladesh, Pakistan
Baqir
Sajjad Syed
October
26, 2021
ISLAMABAD:
Prime Minister of Bangladesh Sheikh Hasina on Monday reiterated her
government’s desire for stronger trade ties and economic collaboration with
Pakistan.
She
was talking to Pakistan’s High Commissioner to Bangladesh Imran Ahmed Siddiqui
during their meeting in Dhaka.
The
Foreign Office, in a statement issued here, said the two sides agreed to
promote relations between the two countries.
This
was the second meeting between Ms Hasina and Mr Siddiqui in nearly eleven
months.
The
meeting came amid warming of ties between the two countries after remaining in
deep freeze for over a decade.
It
is important to note that the meeting took place at a time when both countries
have begun to prepare for Ms Hasina’s first visit to Pakistan.
The
Bangladeshi prime minister has recently conveyed in writing to Pakistan her
acceptance of Prime Minister Imran Khan’s invitation, which was extended last
July. No dates have been set as yet for the trip. Ms Hasina has also invited Mr
Khan to visit Bangladesh.
The
Pakistani side has proposed to Bangladesh to prepare a road map for the prime
minister’s trip so that it is fruitful. Moreover, Islamabad is seeking revival
of bilateral mechanisms like the foreign secretaries’ dialogue, which has not
been held for nearly 13 years.
The
Pakistan-Bangladesh relationship, it should be recalled, took a nosedive after
Ms Hasina started her second tenure as prime minister in 2009 as she resumed
the so-called 1971 ‘war crimes’ trial.
Pakistan
has always considered the bitter 1971 dismemberment of the country as a closed
chapter in view of the tripartite agreement signed in April 1974 for the
repatriation of war prisoners.
Relations,
however, started improving last year. The developments in the
Pakistan-Bangladesh ties came in the backdrop of Delhi-Dhaka ties turning
lukewarm following the enactment of controversial Citizenship Amendment Act by
India last year. Moreover, growing Chinese influence in Dhaka has also brought
Pakistan and Bangladesh closer.
Source:
Dawn
Please
click the following URL to read the full text of the original story:
--------
Punjab
police dismayed at govt’s repeated ‘surrender’ to TLP
Asif
Chaudhry
October
26, 2021
LAHORE:
The Punjab police has resented the federal government’s decision to once again
go soft on the proscribed Tehreek-i-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) by announcing the
release of hundreds of its workers and withdrawing cases against others.
Police
sources said their personnel sacrificed lives and were wounded while performing
duties during violent protests by the TLP, but each time the government
reconciled with the group, disregarding how police have been attacked and
injured with petrol bombs, clubs and bricks, their vehicles set on fire,
weapons and other gear snatched. This is besides the damage inflicted on public
property.
The
law enforcement agency was reacting to Interior Minister Sheikh Rashid’s
statement that the government had released “350 TLP workers up to now and we
are still waiting to open both sides of road of Muridke as per the decision
with the TLP”. The minister had also promised to review the Fourth Schedule
list containing names of the proscribed leaders and activists besides
withdrawing all previous cases lodged against them.
A
dejected deputy inspector general-rank officer blamed the ruling elite for
pushing the police against the wall, and suggested: “The government would have
to stand with either the law enforcers or the TLP. Its decision to release
hundreds of TLP men under an immediate agreement has ignored the sacrifices
policemen rendered and lives they lost during violent agitation of the
organisation,” he lamented.
40
cases registered against top leaders, 5,000 fourth schedulers, hardcore
activists
Since
Sunday, the police has registered 40 cases against top leaders, 5,000 Fourth
Schedulers and hardcore activists of the TLP under terrorism and multiple other
charges. The entire second and third tier leadership of the banned organisation
besides all the members of its Majalis-i-Shura was booked in first information
reports (FIRs) in Lahore, Sheikhupura and Gujranwala districts.
Most
of the fresh cases were lodged in Lahore (18) from where the group initiated a
huge procession and created a major law and order situation. Of these, four
FIRs each were registered by Shafiqabad and Nawankot police stations, two each
by Shahdara and New Anarkali, while others by Iqbal Town, Millat Park, Sanda
and Ravi Road etc.
The
two FIRs by the New Anarkali police were registered separately on the complaints
of Inspector Syed Zahid Hussain and Sub-Inspector Arshad Mahmood under the
anti-terrorism act, murder, attempted murder, kidnap and five other heinous
charges. The complainants nominated 75 top leaders of the TLP, including MPA
Mufti Qasim Fakhri and its chiefs in Karachi, Balochistan, north Punjab, south
Punjab, besides 200 workers, alleging that they attacked police with clubs and
bricks on Oct 23 near the district courts.
They
said the mob ransacked public property and set on fire several police vehicles
near the Metro Bus track, while during the clashes head constable Muhammad Ayub
and constable Khalid Javed lost their lives. Official weapons and protective
gear were also snatched.
An
assistant sub-inspector nominated 39 TLP leaders and 200 workers in the FIR
lodged by Shafiqabad police under terrorism, attempted murder, kidnap and other
charges. He alleged the TLP men injured many policemen and kidnapped some, took
away anti-riot kits and committed terrorism publicly on Oct 23.
In
the case registered by Sanda police, Sub-Inspector Waqas nominated 23 leaders
of the proscribed group besides 5,000 workers and hardcore activists for
attacking the police station, throwing petrol bombs at and injuring policemen,
ransacking state property, and damaging vehicles parked in the Riwaz Garden
checkpost. The nominated included the Masjid Rahmatul-Lil-Aalamin imam, TLP’s
south Punjab and Lahore chiefs and all members of its Majalis-i-Shura.
A
police official Ghulam Rasool complained in an FIR filed by the Ravi Road
police that 11 TLP leaders and 150 workers attacked and injured policemen on GT
Road and kidnapped constables Tanvir Ahmad and Iftikhar. Both the cops were
later rescued.
The
Shafiqabad police registered an FIR under terrorism, attempted murder and kidnap
charges on the complaint of SI Shafqat Javed nominating 25 TLP leaders besides
several other activists.
Source:
Dawn
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https://www.dawn.com/news/1654006/punjab-police-dismayed-at-govts-repeated-surrender-to-tlp
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Taliban
scheme gives further credibility to Pakistan’s call for aid to Afghanistan
October
25, 2021
ISLAMABAD:
Pakistan has been consistently urging the international community to help
Afghanistan avert a looming humanitarian catastrophe as a fallout of the exit
of foreign troops in August.
The
call for international aid to Afghanistan has become more relevant after its
interim Taliban government launched a programme to offer wheat in exchange for
labour to fight hunger and unemployment.
The
security experts believe the “food for work” scheme is in fact signalling a
looming crisis.
The
scheme, to tackle hunger and unemployment, will be rolled out in major towns
and cities and employ 40,000 men in the capital of Kabul alone.
“This
is an important step for fighting unemployment,” Taliban spokesman Zabihullah
Mujahid said during a press conference, adding the labourers must “work hard”.
Afghanistan
— which is already suffering from poverty, drought, electricity blackouts and a
failing economic system — is now facing the onset of what may be a harsh
winter.
The
two-month programme will see 11,600 tons of wheat distributed in the capital,
with about 55,000 tons for elsewhere in the country, including Herat,
Jalalabad, Kandahar, Mazar-i-Sharif and Pol-i-Khomri.
Work
for the labourers in Kabul will include digging water channels and catchment
terraces for snow in the hills to combat drought.
The
Taliban’s food-for-work scheme will not pay labourers, targeting those who are
currently unemployed and most at risk of starvation during the winter.
A
humanitarian crisis is imminent, Pakistan fears, as the United States refuses to
sanction the new government in Afghanistan, blocking its access to over $9
billion in held assets.
The
war-ravaged country has suffered a lot over four decades of hardships. The
security analysts say that relief for the people is still a distant dream even
after the exit of regional forces.
With
winters setting in, the people are likely to face even worse. It is time for
the international community to act and act fast to avert a looming crisis, they
said.
United
Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) Filippo Grandi has called on the
world to engage with the Taliban government or risk a “humanitarian crisis”
resulting from the collapse of the state.
According
to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Finland, approximately half of the 40
million people in Afghanistan are estimated to need humanitarian assistance. As
many as 8.7 million people would need long-term and consistent assistance.
As
per the report of the UN Consolidated Appeal Process, the need for humanitarian
aid in Afghanistan in 2021 was estimated to be €1.3 billion.
In
September, Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi at a joint press conference
with his German counterpart, Heiko Maas, said: “This is a pivotal moment in
Afghanistan’s history. The international community must remain engaged.”
Pakistan
has so far sent 53 truckloads and four C-130 aircraft carrying 1,096 tonnes of
humanitarian aid comprising edibles, medicines and shelter to Afghanistan
between September 9 and October 21.
Source:
Pakistan Today
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State
dept lauds Pakistan for assisting evacuation flights
October
26, 2021
WASHINGTON:
The State Department of the United States appreciated Pakistan’s efforts in
accommodating the evacuation of American people from Afghanistan following the
Taliban takeover in August.
The
State Department praised Islamabad’s assistance in providing safe passage from
Afghanistan for US nationals, lawful permanent residents (LPRs) and Afghans to
whom it said Washington has a special commitment.
Source:
Pakistan Today
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Pakistan
desires to maintain bilateral ties with Canada: COAS
October
25, 2021
Canadian
High Commissioner Wendy Gilmour Monday called on Chief of Army Staff (COAS)
General Qamar Javed Bajwa at General Headquarters (GHQ) in Islamabad.
Speaking
on the occasion, the COAS said Pakistan desires to maintain the tradition of
bilateral engagement and wish for long term and multi-domain enduring relationship
with Canada, said an Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR) media release.
During
the meeting, matters of mutual interest, bilateral cooperation in various
fields, overall regional situation and peace and stability in Afghanistan were
discussed.
The
COAS reiterated that there is a need for global convergence on Afghanistan to
avoid humanitarian crisis together with coordinated efforts for economic uplift
of the Afghan people.
The
visiting dignitary appreciated Pakistan’s role in Afghan situation including
successful evacuation operations and pledged to keep working for better
relations between the two countries.
Source:
Pakistan Today
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Arab World
Syrian Grand Mufti: Those who forget Palestine today, will forget holy Mecca tomorrow
October 26, 2021
The Syrian grand Mufti, Sheikh Badreddin Hassoun, speaking at the webinar of the 35th Islamic Unity Conference said unity should not be limited only to Muslim religious leaders but should involve the entire Muslim Ummah.
Sheikh Hassoun said Iran is holding Islamic Unity Conference for many years adding that the late Imam Khomeini (RA) and after him, Ayatollah Khamenei has worked for realization of unity among the ranks of Islamic Ummah.
He went on saying that enemies of the Islamic Revolution from the outset of the victory of the revolution up to now have constantly tried to distort the image of the Islamic Revolution and the path it has taken. They tried to depict the Islamic Revolution as a racist and ethnic movement aimed at causing division among Muslims. But the children of the Islamic Revolution thwarted all these plots and revealed whatever lies had been told about the Islamic Revolution.
The top Syrian cleric added that the enemies have waged a war in Yemen and the Levant (Syria) which is a pillar of Islam. They kindle the flame of war and seat back and lough. Why is so? It's because we Muslims do not act upon Islamic teachings.
Sheikh Badreddin said we attach great hope to the Islamic Unity Conference and we should be more vigilant about those who have penetrated into the ranks of Muslim Ummah and be aware that they are not part of Islamic Ummah because they kill their Muslim brothers in the name of Islam.
He thanked Iranians and the Supreme Leader for campaigning against the Zionist regime and supporting the Palestinian cause and liberation of Palestine.
Source: ABNA24
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Ex-Saudi official makes damaging allegations against crown prince
October 26, 2021
DUBAI: A former senior Saudi security official who helped oversee joint counter-terrorism efforts with the United States alleged in an interview with CBS News that the country’s crown prince once spoke of killing a sitting Saudi monarch before his own father was crowned king.
Saad al Jabri did not provide evidence to the CBS News programme, which aired on Sunday.
The ex-intelligence official, who resides in exile in Canada, alleged that in 2014, Prince Mohammed bin Salman boasted that he could kill King Abdullah. At the time, Prince Mohammed held no senior role in government but was serving as gatekeeper to the royal court of his father, at the time still heir to the throne.
King Salman ascended to the throne in January 2015 after the death of his half-brother, King Abdullah.
Al Jabri used the interview to warn Prince Mohammed that he has recorded a video that reveals even more royal secrets and some of the United States. A short, silent clip was shown to "60 Minutes" correspondent Scott Pelley. The video, al Jabri said, could be released if he’s killed.
Source: Dawn
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https://www.dawn.com/news/1654072/ex-saudi-official-makes-damaging-allegations-against-crown-prince
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UAE’s air force chief to witness Israel’s largest-ever exercise
October 26, 2021
OVDA: Israel is holding its largest-ever air force exercise this week, joined by several Western countries and India, with the United Arab Emirates’s air force chief set to inspect the drills.
Amir Lazar, chief of Israeli air force operations, told reporters the drills “don’t focus on Iran”, but army officials have said the Islamic republic remains Israel’s top strategic threat and at the centre of much of its military planning.
Israel has held the so-called “Blue Flag” exercises every two years since 2013 in the Negev desert. Some preliminary exercises began last week.
Other nations taking part this year include France, the United States and Germany, as well as Britain, whose aircraft flew over Israeli territory for the first time since the Jewish state’s creation in 1948.
With more than 70 fighter jets — including Mirage 2000s, Rafales and F-16s — and some 1,500 personnel participating, the drills are the largest-ever held in Israel, Lazar told reporters at the southern Ovda airbase.
While UAE aircraft are not flying in the drills, Lazar said the visit from the country’s air force chief, set for Tuesday, was “very significant”.
The agreements that saw Israel normalise ties last year with several Arab countries, including the UAE, Bahrain and Morocco, “opened a variety of opportunities”, Lazar said on Sunday.
Israel “was looking forward to hosting the Emirates air force” in the future, he added.
Shared concern over common foe Iran was widely seen as a factor that spurred the UAE towards Israel.
Lazar said the “Blue Flag” exercises in part aimed to synchronise different types of aircraft, piloted by different countries to counter armed drones and other threats.
In addition to Iran’s nuclear programme, Israel has sought to sound the alarm over a fleet of drones it claims Tehran is dispatching to its proxies across the Middle East, including in Yemen, Syria and Lebanon.
Iran is focused “on building an army of UAVs (unmanned aerial vehicles)”, Lazar said.
It was possible that “someday” the nations participating in the drill would be “working together” to counter the Iranian threat, he added.
Iran and Israel have exchanged sharp rhetoric recently, against the backdrop of efforts to renew talks to revive a nuclear deal between Iran and world powers.
Hosting UAE air force chief
Major General Ibrahim Nasser Mohammed Al Alawi, commander of the UAE air force, made the previously unannounced appearance during a multinational drill, Blue Flag, hosted by Israel.
Source: Dawn
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https://www.dawn.com/news/1654077/uaes-air-force-chief-to-witness-israels-largest-ever-exercise
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Egypt's President Sisi ends state of emergency for the first time in years
26 October ,2021
Egypt's President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi said on Monday that he ended the state of emergency in the country for the first time in years, the president wrote in a Facebook post.
Egypt first imposed a state of emergency in April 2017 and has extended it at three-month intervals since.
For the latest headlines, follow our Google News channel online or via the app.
Egypt is the most populous country in the Arab world, with almost 100 million people, who have been under state of emergency restrictions since April 2017.
Source: Al Arabiya
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Hosting UAE Air Force chief, Israel sees airpower cooperation
25 October ,2021
The chief of the United Arab Emirates Air Force visited Israel on Monday on what the host country described as a harbinger of cooperation in air power.
The US allies normalized relations last year, brought together by shared worries about Iran and a desire for business ventures. Their public embrace has so far been in the diplomatic and commercial, rather than military, spheres.
Major-General Ibrahim Nasser Mohammed Al Alawi, commander of the UAE air force, made the previously unannounced appearance during a multinational drill, Blue Flag, hosted by Israel this week.
“This is a truly historic day with tremendous significance for the future of cooperation between our air forces,” his Israeli counterpart, Major-General Amikam Norkin, tweeted. The statement did not elaborate on how such cooperation might look.
Israeli media have suggested the UAE – along with Gulf neighbor Bahrain, which also formalized ties with Israel last year – may be interested in joint defenses against Iranian-made drones.
Addressing the United Nations General Assembly last month, Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett said “Iran plans to arm its proxies in Yemen, Iraq, Syria and Lebanon with hundreds, and then thousands of these deadly drones.”
Source: Al Arabiya
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Arab coalition says 105 Houthis killed in Marib battle
25 October ,2021
The Arab Coalition backing the government in Yemen said Monday 105 Houthis were killed in air strikes near the strategic city of Marib.
The deaths are the latest among roughly 1,700 Houthis the coalition says were killed in strikes over the past two weeks around Marib, the internationally recognized government’s last bastion in oil-rich northern Yemen.
The Iran-backed Houthis rarely comment on losses, and AFP could not independently verify the toll.
“Thirteen military vehicles were destroyed and 105” insurgents were killed in strikes in the past 24 hours, the coalition said, according to the official Saudi Press Agency.
The strikes were carried out in al-Jawba, about 50 kilometers (30 miles) south of Marib, and al-Kassara, 30 kilometers to the northwest.
The coalition has reported heavy strikes around Marib in recent weeks.
In February, the Houthis began a major push to seize Marib -- the internationally recognized government’s last bastion in oil-rich northern Yemen.
They have renewed their offensive since September after a lull.
Source: Al Arabiya
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India
In Tripura, Police Provide Security to Mosques After Stray Attacks Reported
Tanmoy
Chakraborty
October
26, 2021
Agartala:
The Tripura police have provided security cover to almost all the mosques in
the state after a body had alleged that some ‘miscreants’ had attacked mosques
and minority habitations in parts of the state in the aftermath of communal
violence in Bangladesh.
Speaking
with The Wire, Tripura director general of police (DGP) V.S. Yadav said some
“unknown miscreants” tried to disrupt communal harmony in the state but that
their attempts were foiled due to the deployment of police forces. Around 150
mosques are being provided protection, he said.
“All
the mosques across the state are under security coverage. Our police officers
are in the field. So far, no fresh incidents occurred in the state. A few days
ago, miscreants tried to create disturbance but due to police patrolling they
couldn’t. Some miscreants are taking advantage of the situation to disrupt
communal harmony and malign the government,” Yadav said. He said no major
attacks were reported.
Tripura
shares an 856 km semi-porous international boundary with Bangladesh, where a
series of attacks on minorities were reported during Durga puja.
Tripura
State Jamiat Ulama president Mufti Tayebur Rahman has confirmed to The Wire
that the police have provided security to all the mosques and no fresh attempts
were made to disturb peace and communal harmony.
“So
far we haven’t received any reports of incidents. Police were deployed near
mosques. The government is also working to maintain peace in the state,” he
said.
The
Jamiat had submitted a memorandum to chief minister Biplab Kumar Deb and DGP
V.S. Yadav and said, “No one, from Hindu or Muslim community, in Tripura
supported the violence in Bangladesh. I personally protested. Even then, some
unruly, communal mobs in the state are engaged in attacks on mosques, minority
homes and other unpleasant activities to destroy the harmony of Hindus and
Muslims.”
The
memorandum added, “Some Muslims in remote areas have had to leave their homes
for this reason.”
The
Jamiat had demanded arrangements to be made to stop these mobs and that action
should be taken against the accused.
The
assistant inspector general of police (law and order) Subrata Chakraborty said,
“We have directed all the concerned district superintendents of police to
provide security coverage to all the mosques, to carry out regular patrolling.
Soon after violence in Bangladesh, we alerted our officials.”
On
the issue, BJP spokesperson Nabendu Bhattacharya said the party was against any
such incident, and leaders of its minority morcha had reached out to “everyone
across the state” to ensure peace.
Earlier,
a series of protests were held by right-wing groups, including the Vishwa Hindu
Parishad and the Hindu Jagran Manch, across the state to protest the violence
in Bangladesh.
During
a protest, more than 12 persons – including three police officers – were
injured in clashes on Thursday between the police and right-wing groups in the
Maharani area under the Udaipur sub-division of Tripura’s Gomati district.
Source:
The Wire
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click the following URL to read the full text of the original story:
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T20
World Cup: Mohammed Shami faces vicious online abuse after India's loss to
Pakistan
Oct
25, 2021
NEW
DELHI: A torrent of social media abuse was aimed at the only Muslim player in
the Indian playing XI, Mohammed Shami, after his side were thrashed by arch
rivals Pakistan at the T20 World Cup.
Violence
against Muslims in India was also reported after the emphatic 10-wicket win on
Sunday, Pakistan's first against India at any World Cup.
Cricket
clashes between India and Pakistan frequently heighten tensions between the
neighbours, who have fought three wars since their independence in 1947.
The
31-year-old Shami became the main target after the defeat in Dubai, even though
India captain Virat Kohli acknowledged that his side had been
"outplayed".
Hundreds
of messages were left on Shami's Instagram account saying he was a
"traitor" and should be thrown out of the Indian team.
But
many fans and politicians also urged support for him, calling on Indian players
to reject the hate messages just as they had backed the Black Lives Matter
movement by taking a knee.
"Team
India your BLM knee-taking counts for nothing if you can't stand up for your
teammate who is being horribly abused and trolled on social media," Omar
Abdullah, a former chief minister of Kashmir, said on Twitter.
"Ignore
the haters, most of India's grateful for your effort," said another
supporter on Instagram.
People
set off celebratory gunfire in the Pakistani cities of Islamabad and Karachi
after the famous win, while firecrackers were reportedly ignited in Kashmir.
Gautam
Gambhir, a former India Test cricketer who has become an MP for the Bharatiya
Janata Party, said it was "shameful" that people were celebrating
Pakistan's win.
In
Punjab, students from Kashmir said they were beaten up.
A
student at an engineering and technology institute said dozens of men armed
with hockey sticks and batons attacked them as they watched the closing stages
of the game.
"They
entered our room, switched off the lights and beat us. They destroyed our
laptops," the student told AFP, speaking on condition of anonymity because
of fears of more trouble.
Source:
Times of India
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J&K:
Grenade attack by terrorists in Bandipora; few civilians injured
Oct
26, 2021
BANDIPORA:
Few civilians were injured after terrorists lobbed a grenade in Jammu and
Kashmir's Bandipora on Tuesday.
According
to the Jammu and Kashmir Police, the incident was reported from the Sumbal
bridge area.
Source:
Times of India
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Retd
Pakistan army personnel guiding terrorists' team in Poonch?
Sanjay
Khajuria
Oct
26, 2021
JAMMU:
Security agencies battling terrorists in the Bhata Dhurian forest of Jammu
& Kashmir's Poonch district in what has become the longest-ever continuous
anti-terror operation suspect that the large group of well-trained terrorists
they are fighting are working under the operational leadership of retired
Pakistan army personnel.
The
operation, which began on October 11, was into its 15th consecutive day on
Monday with fresh firing erupting between the heavily armed terrorists and
security forces. Previously, the nine-day Bhatti Dhar operation of December
2008-January 2009 was the longest operation but the terrorists had managed to
flee in 2009.
Sources
said the security agencies have adopted a "wait and watch" policy in
view of the heavy losses they have already suffered. Nine Army personnel,
including two JCOs, have been killed since the operation commenced. A day
earlier, two police personnel and one Army jawan were injured, while one jailed
terrorist, who had been taken to the encounter site to identify the hideout,
had been killed in firing. The arrested terrorist, Pakistani citizen Zia
Mustafa, had been in jail for the past 14 years. In contrast, the security
forces said they had killed four terrorists in nine days.
The
operation began on October 11 after first contact between the hiding terrorists
and security forces conducting a cordon and search operation in Dera ki Gali
area of Surankote tehsil, Poonch district, triggered a fierce encounter. In the
first encounter five soldiers, including a JCO, lost their lives. The security
forces continued the search operation and on October 14, in another round of
intense exchange of gunfire, two more soldiers lost their lives. Later, the
bodies of another JCO and a jawan were found at the encounter site. The Army
has deployed a specially trained unit of para commandos for the combing
operation and is also using drones and helicopters.
Source:
Times of India
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Kashmiri
students attacked in Punjab after Pakistan defeated India in WC T20
By
Anjana Meenakshi
25th
October 2021
Hyderabad:
16 students hailing from Jammu and Kashmir studying in two universities in
Punjab were beaten up by students said to be from “UP and Bihar” after Pakistan
defeated India in the T20 cricket match yesterday.
A
video shared by Nasir Khuehami, the national spokesperson for Jammu and Kashmir
Students Association (JKSA), on Twitter shows the room in which the Kashmiri
students were watching the match. The broken handle of a chair, the mattresses
with all its stuffing pulled out and the chipped study table upturned all bare
proof to the haphazard manner in which the scuffle must have ensued.
The
video shows a Kashmir student saying, “We are here to study and hum bhi Indian
hain.” Putting aside the political deliberations and various opinions on
Kashmir and its statehood, this instance seems to highlight the growing trend
of Islamophobia creeping its way into various pockets of the country.
The
students claim that they were beaten up by other students hailing from Uttar
Pradesh and Bihar while chants of “Go to Pakistan” were repeated in an
insistent and aggressive manner. In fact, this attack comes a few hours after
Indian bowler Mohammad Shami received abuses on social media with people
calling him a “Muslim siding with Pakistan”.
Speaking
to Siasat.com, Nasir Khuehami remarked that the scuffle at Bhai Gurudas
Institute of Engineering and Technology (Bhai GIET) in Sangrur commenced soon
after India lost to Pakistan.
‘Be
it the 12 students at Bhai GIET or the four students in Rayat Bahra University
in Mohali, all of them were attacked without any provocation. Four of them were
badly injured and were unable to protect themselves,” remarked Khuehami.
When
questioned about religious markers, Khuehami remarked that all of the victims
were Kashmiri Muslims and it is inferable that the attack was motivated not
just by geography but by a deep-rooted bias against Muslims.
A
third-year B.Tech student enrolled at Bhai GIET requested anonymity before
remarking that in his three years of study, he had never witnessed an attack of
this kind in the campus limits.
Source:
Siasat Daily
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click the following URL to read the full text of the original story:
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South Asia
Is
the Islamic State in Afghanistan Targeting China?
By
Nodirbek Soliev
October
26, 2021
On
October 8, a suicide bomber struck a Shiite mosque in Afghanistan’s Kunduz
province. The bombing killed more than 70 people and injured over 140
worshippers belonging to the Hazara minority community. Soon after, the Islamic
State terror group’s local affiliate in Afghanistan, known Islamic State
Khorasan (ISK), claimed responsibility for the heinous attack via an online
propaganda statement. ISK identified the bomber as “Muhammad al-Uyghuri,”
saying the assault targeted both “rafidites” (a derogatory term used by
jihadists to refer to Shiites) and the Taliban government for its purported
willingness to deport Uyghurs from Afghanistan in response to requests from
China.
ISK’s
aggression toward religious and ethnic minority civilian populations is not
uncommon. As the Taliban are working to transform themselves from a radical
insurgent movement to a legitimate state structure, attacks on such minority
communities are meant to foment sectarian strife while casting doubt on the
unrecognized new rulers’ ability to deliver appropriate security to the
country’s people.
However,
the group’s apparent attempt to justify the targeting of the Hazara minority
community in Afghanistan through rhetoric about China and Uyghurs is both
unusual and perplexing. An analysis of the attack indicates that ISK is potentially
considering pivoting its China strategy away from what it was previously
assessed to be, moving from a relatively non-provocative posture toward a more
hands-on stance. Furthermore, ISK is apparently viewing the Taliban’s stated
incentives to deport Uyghur militants as an opportunity to position itself as a
new protector of the Uyghurs, with the aim of welcoming disgruntled Uyghur
militants into its ranks.
ISK
and Its Uyghur Suicide Bomber
ISK
emerged in 2015, when the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria announced its
expansion to the historic “Khorasan” region, which encompassed parts of
modern-day Afghanistan, Pakistan, Iran, and Central Asia. Initial members of
the group predominantly included former hardline members of the Afghan and
Pakistani Taliban, al-Qaida, and other militant groups. Since its inception,
ISK has seen the Taliban as its strategic rival and ideological opponent. It
has targeted Taliban positions and attempted to encourage defections from the
movement. From 2015 to 2020, amid sustained military pressure by the U.S.,
Afghan government forces and the Taliban contained the ISK threat.
Since
2020, under a new leader, Shahab al-Muhajir, ISK has ramped up local violence
as part of its resurgence campaign against the Afghan government and the
Taliban. According to U.N. reporting, ISK had an estimated 500 to 1,500
fighters under its control before the fall of the Afghan government in
mid-August, and it was responsible for 77 attacks across Afghanistan in the
first quarter of 2021 alone. Since the Taliban takeover, the group has
intensified attacks on civilian spaces, including religious institutions. Some
of these and earlier attacks saw the involvement of the group’s Afghan, Indian,
Tajik, and Pakistani members, among others.
The
Kunduz attack is the first time that ISK has publicly confirmed the
mobilization of an ethnic Uyghur – while not providing any detail about his
country of origin – to carry out an attack in Afghanistan on its behalf.
Previously, Uyghur militants had been invisible in both the online propaganda
and battlefield activities of the group.
The
Uyghurs are a Turkic-speaking, mostly Sunni Muslim ethnic community native to
the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region (XUAR) of China. Although the bomber’s
nom de guerre (“al-Uyghuri”) implies he was an ethnic Uyghur, it does not
necessarily mean that he was from Xinjiang. Uyghur fighters who claim to come
from China usually adopt the nom de guerre of “al-Turkistani” to emphasize
their separatist cause: the establishment of an independent Islamic state in
Xinjiang, which they often refer to as “East Turkistan.” Many foreign
countries, including Turkey and Afghanistan, host varying numbers of Uyghur
communities, any of which the attacker may have come from.
Regardless
of the attacker’s national origin, by highlighting the Uyghur involvement in
the attack, ISK is sending important messages to its intended audiences: China,
the Taliban, and the former’s Uyghur affiliates.
ISK’s
‘Indirect Enmity’ Approach
By
showcasing that the group now has Uyghur members who are motivated and trained
to sacrifice their lives for its cause, ISK has exacerbated Beijing’s existing
concerns about the Uyghur militant threat deriving from Afghanistan. China
first came to the attention of the Islamic State’s central core in July 2014,
when the group’s slain leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi listed it among many other
countries as a battlefield on which to “wage jihad.” A year later, IS announced
the execution of a Chinese hostage, along with a Norwegian citizen in Syria.
The group also claimed responsibility for the murder of two Chinese teachers
kidnapped in Pakistan in May 2017. Since then, however, Islamic State’s
anti-Chinese activities have been largely limited to the spread of sporadic
online propaganda threats and calls for action.
While
there could be various motivations, two main factors may explain the relative
paucity of China- and Uyghur-focused rhetoric in IS propaganda in the past.
First, as China had not participated in any anti-IS military campaigns in Afghanistan,
Iraq, or Syria, IS possibly viewed Beijing as less threatening. Instead, it has
prioritized fighting against the Western coalition force.
Second,
both IS and ISK have so far been quite unsuccessful in recruiting Uyghurs
compared to groups linked to their al-Qaida rival. More Uyghur members could
imply the possible growth of more anti-China and pro-Uyghur propaganda. Given
Beijing’s apparent interest in engaging with the Taliban, IS and ISK are now
seemingly considering including China on their list as an “immediate enemy.”
The framing of the Kunduz attack as retaliation for the Taliban’s willingness
to curb Uyghur militants at China’s request is an indication of that.
ISK
Hopes for the Taliban’s Abandonment of TIP
The
public invisibility of Uyghur fighters in ISK propaganda in the past was
largely a reflection of the fact that it was losing Uyghur recruits to the
Turkistan Islamic Party (TIP), which was also known as the Eastern Turkestan
Islamic Movement (ETIM), a longstanding battlefield ally of the Taliban. Under
the Taliban’s consistent support and protection for nearly 25 years, TIP has
managed not only to survive as a single monolithic entity, but also to
establish unchallenged hegemony over the recruitment and control of the Uyghur
jihadist network in Afghanistan.
Unlike
ISK, IS in Syria had been relatively successful in recruiting Uyghur fighters.
When the group was at its peak in 2014 and 2015, it had reportedly 114 Uyghur
members in Syria. However, even then, this figure was 10 to 20 times less than
the number of Uyghurs in TIP’s Syrian division.
Before
the Taliban’s capture of Kabul in August, TIP had approximately 400 Uyghur
fighters, gathered primarily in the Jurm district of the country’s northeastern
Badakhshan province, which shares a small border with Xinjiang via the
mountainous Wakhan Corridor. Despite being an independent jihadist faction, TIP
has performed all its activities in Afghanistan under the guidance and approval
of the Taliban. Since 2019, the group has kept a relatively low profile in
Afghanistan. The Taliban’s capture of Kabul was an iconic moment for TIP and
many other jihadist groups across the world. A few days after the fall of the
Afghan government, TIP issued a statement lauding the Taliban’s “victory” and
the “restoration of the Islamic Emirate.” A potential resurgence of TIP, which
China blames for many attacks at home, has been Beijing’s overriding security
concern.
The
Kunduz attack came at a critical moment for Taliban-TIP relations. In response
to Beijing’s repeated calls to sever its ties with TIP, the Taliban recently
announced that many TIP members had left Afghanistan at the request of the
movement. However, it did not clarify how many Uyghur fighters might have moved
out or where they went. Reports surfaced in October alleging that the Taliban
relocated the Uyghur fighters from Badakhshan to other areas, including in the
eastern Nangarhar province, suggesting that they were still residing in
Afghanistan.
Source:
The Diplomat
Please
click the following URL to read the full text of the original story:
https://thediplomat.com/2021/10/is-the-islamic-state-in-afghanistan-targeting-china/
--------
Mullah
Baradar meets UNDP director in Doha
October
26, 2021
KABUL:
The first deputy of the prime minister, Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar, met with
the director of the UN Development Program (UNDP), Achim Steiner, in Doha,
Qatar. Mohammad Naeem, spokesman for the Taliban’s Qatar based political office
said in a tweet on Monday that the two sides discussed the current situation of
Afghanistan, economic challenges and treatment for drug addicts. Last week the
officials of the Islamic Emirate held talks with five top officials of the
United Nations, calling for the release of Afghanistan’s assets and the
continuation of humanitarian assistance. Experts said the Islamic Emirate would
not be able to satisfy the world through such meetings. “These meetings won’t
be effective in releasing Afghanistan’s assets or reduction poverty or
providing aid,” said Abdul Naseer Rishtia, a political expert.
The
News Pakistan
Please
click the following URL to read the full text of the original story:
https://www.thenews.com.pk/print/903212-mullah-baradar-meets-undp-director-in-doha
--------
13
more held for communal violence in Bangladesh
Oct
26, 2021
DHAKA:
Police have arrested 13 more suspects, including a local cleric, for the recent
spate of violence against the minority Hindu community during Durga Puja
celebrations in Bangladesh, according to media reports on Monday.
Acting
on a tip-off, police arrested Mamun Mondal, who is an activist of Islami Chhatra
Shibir, the student affiliate of Jamaat-e-Islami, and Omar Faruk, a local
cleric, on Sunday from different locations. "Mamun was actively involved
with Chhatra Shibir from 2012. Later, he lived in Malaysia for some time. Omar
Faruk has been the imam at Pirganj South Bus stand mosque," a police
official said. An angry mob on October 17 damaged 66 houses and set on fire at
least 20 homes of Hindus in Rangpur district's Pirganj upazila over an alleged
blasphemous online post amid protests by the minority community against temple
vandalism incidents during Durga Puja celebrations. Pirganj police
officer-in-charge Suresh Chandra said that Mamun "sprinkled petrol and lit
the fire" on the night of the violence. According to a report in Dhaka
Tribune, the duo has admitted to the allegations during preliminary
interrogation.
Source:
Times of India
Please
click the following URL to read the full text of the original story:
--------
22.8
million Afghan people will face acute hunger: UN agency
Oct
25, 2021
KABUL:
More than half the population of Afghanistan - a record 22.8 million people -
will face acute food insecurity from November, a UN aid organisation said on
Monday.
This
data regarding acute hunger was revealed in a new report issued by Integrated
Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) by the Food Security and Agriculture
Cluster of Afghanistan, co-led by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the
UN and the UN World Food Programme (WFP).
A
WFP release stated that the combined impacts of drought, conflict, Covid-19,
and the economic crisis, have severely affected lives, livelihoods, and
people's access to food.
The
report's findings come as Afghanistan's harsh winter looms, threatening to cut
off areas of the country where families desperately depend on humanitarian
assistance to survive the freezing winter months.
The
IPC report has found that more than one in two Afghans will be facing crisis or
emergency levels of acute food insecurity through November 2021 to March 2022
lean season, requiring urgent humanitarian interventions to meet basic food
needs, protect livelihoods and prevent a humanitarian catastrophe.
The
report also notes that this is the highest number of acutely food insecure
people ever recorded in the ten years the UN has been conducting IPC analyses
in Afghanistan. Globally, Afghanistan is home to one of the largest number of
people in acute food insecurity in both absolute and relative terms
"It
is urgent that we act efficiently and effectively to speed up and scale up our
delivery in Afghanistan before winter cuts off a large part of the country,
with millions of people - including farmers, women, young children and the
elderly - going hungry in the freezing winter. It is a matter of life or death.
We cannot wait and see humanitarian disasters unfolding in front of us - it is
unacceptable!" said QU Dongyu, FAO Director-General.
"Afghanistan
is now among the world's worst humanitarian crises - if not the worst - and
food security has all but collapsed. This winter, millions of Afghans will be
forced to choose between migration and starvation unless we can step up our
life-saving assistance, and unless the economy can be resuscitated. We are on a
countdown to catastrophe and if we don't act now, we will have a total disaster
on our hands," said David Beasley, WFP Executive Director.
Source:
Times of India
Please
click the following URL to read the full text of the original story:
--------
Southeast Asia
Wang
Yi Meets with Acting Deputy Prime Minister of Afghan Taliban's Interim
Government Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar
2021/10/26
On
October 25, 2021 local time, State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi met
with Acting Deputy Prime Minister of Afghan Taliban's interim government Mullah
Abdul Ghani Baradar in Doha during his visit to Qatar.
Wang
Yi said, Afghanistan, now standing at a critical stage of transforming from
chaos to governance, is currently facing a historic opportunity to truly master
its own destiny, achieve inclusiveness and reconciliation, and advance national
reconstruction. Meanwhile, Afghanistan is facing quadruple challenges, namely
the humanitarian crisis, economic chaos, terrorist threats and governance
difficulties. Overcoming these challenges requires more understanding and support
from the international community. China hopes that the Afghan Taliban can
further demonstrate openness and inclusiveness, unite all ethnic groups and
factions in Afghanistan to work together for peaceful reconstruction. It should
effectively protect the rights and interests of women and children, adopt a
friendly policy toward its neighboring countries, and build a modern country
that conforms to the wishes of the people and the trend of the times.
Wang
Yi said, China always respects Afghanistan's sovereignty, independence and
territorial integrity, and supports the Afghan people in independently
determining their own destiny and choosing the development path. China has
never interfered in the internal affairs of Afghanistan and never sought
selfish gains or a sphere of influence, and it firmly pursues a friendly policy
toward all the people of Afghanistan, and supports Afghan efforts to restore
stability and rebuild the country. Attaching importance to the humanitarian
difficulties facing Afghanistan at present, China urges the Western countries
led by the United States as a whole to lift sanctions, and calls on all parties
to engage with the Afghan Taliban in a rational and pragmatic manner to help
Afghanistan embark on a path of sound development. China is willing to continue
to provide humanitarian material assistance to Afghanistan within its capacity
and work with the international community to help Afghanistan alleviate
temporary difficulties and realize economic reconstruction and independent development.
Wang
Yi emphasized, the "East Turkestan Islamic Movement" (ETIM), an
international terrorist organization designated by the UN Security Council, not
only poses a real threat to China's national security and territorial
integrity, but also jeopardizes the domestic stability and long-term stability
and security in Afghanistan. China hopes and believes that the Afghan Taliban
will make a clean break with the ETIM and other terrorist organizations, and
take effective measures to resolutely crack down on them.
Baradar
briefed on the current situation in Afghanistan, and said the overall situation
in Afghanistan is under control and improving, with the governments at all
levels being gradually established and government decrees being carried out
effectively. The Afghan interim government is working hard to meet the needs of
the people. Afghanistan will learn from historical experience and follow a
development path that suits its own national conditions. It has taken and will
continue to take inclusive measures to expand the representation of the regime.
Most officials and technocrats of the former government have stayed in office,
and more outstanding personnel of all ethnic groups will be recruited to
participate in state governance in the future. The Afghan Taliban is willing to
strengthen the efforts to protect the rights and interests of women and
children, and will not deprive them of the rights to education and work. For
now, women in medical institutions, airports and other places have resumed
their work, and girls in primary and secondary schools in many provinces have
returned to school, but they still face difficulties such as lack of facilities
and funds. Afghanistan hopes that China and the international community will
increase assistance to Afghanistan to help it overcome the humanitarian crisis
and return to the right track of development.
Source:
China Embassy
Please
click the following URL to read the full text of the original story:
http://www.china-embassy.org/eng/zgyw/t1916871.htm
--------
Better
a clean multiracial govt than a corrupt Malay-Muslim one, says Idris
Nicholas
Chung
October
26, 2021
MELAKA:
Former Melaka chief minister Idris Haron says the state would be better off
under a multiracial and clean administration rather than a Malay-Muslim state
government that was corrupt and incompetent.
In
an interview with FMT, the former Sungai Udang assemblyman noted that the
previous Barisan Nasional-led government had been touted as the first
Malay-Muslim state government in Melaka.
“Yes,
they’re Malay and Muslim, but what choice do we have?” he said.
“On
the one hand, a government that claims to be Malay-Muslim but is rotten,
corrupted, incompetent, (subject to external) interventions, which
discriminates, among other traits.
“On
the other hand, a government of various backgrounds which possesses racial
unity, that is more Islamic and capable of ensuring the welfare of the people
of Melaka.”
Idris
claimed that aid programmes of the previous state government had discriminated
against people of different political backgrounds, citing as an example how aid
from the Melaka Islamic Religious Council (MAIM) was distributed at a hall with
party flags hung around.
“We
don’t want party politics to take over the government, where one is asked which
party they support when receiving aid. Then if you don’t support me, you won’t
get the aid.
“That
is a sickness that burdens the people of Melaka today. I’m confident that the
MAIM aid distributed recently was an agenda that was not pure in heart and
irresponsible… advising recipients to support them and so on.”
On
the contrary, he said, Islam taught its believers to help all of those in need,
regardless of their backgrounds.
“Islam
doesn’t distinguish between races. Islam doesn’t distinguish between political
backgrounds. If we really say that we are a Malay government that upholds
Islam, then there should not be any political discrimination in giving aid to
the people of Melaka.”
Idris
believed that Pakatan Harapan would be the best choice for Melaka voters when
they cast their ballots to elect a new state assembly. He added that the
election were not about who was the coalition’s candidate for chief minister.
Being
the chief minister, he said, was no heroic business achieved by individual
exploits, but required the backing and consensus of (at least) 15 members of
the state assembly.
“In
this context, anyone can become (chief minister), as long as they have the
right attitude to lead a clean, responsible, efficient and transparent
government that has no external intervention in its affairs and does not
discriminate.”
Source:
Free Malaysia Today
Please
click the following URL to read the full text of the original story:
--------
Mideast
Muslim
scholars slam Israeli demolition of historic cemetery in Jerusalem
Mohammad
Majid
25.10.2021
GAZA
CITY, Palestine
Palestinian
Muslim Scholars Association on Monday condemned Israel's razing of the Islamic
Al-Yusufiye Cemetery in occupied East Jerusalem's Old City.
In
a statement, the association said the Israeli authorities did not respect the
feelings of Muslims by "Judaizing" their graves and such an act will
lead to an escalation in the face of the Israeli occupation.
The
association urged Muslim scholars in the Arab and Islamic world to intensify
their efforts to raise awareness on "Judaization" attempts in
Jerusalem.
On
Monday, the Israeli municipal authorities resumed destruction and leveling of
the Al-Yusufiye Cemetery despite protests by Palestinian residents who have relatives
buried in the cemetery.
The
head of the Committee for the Preservation of Islamic cemeteries in Jerusalem,
Mustafa Abu Zahra, told Anadolu Agency that the Israeli municipal crews
bulldozed part of the cemetery land.
Source:
Anadolu Agency
Please
click the following URL to read the full text of the original story:
--------
Iran
establishes new brigade in eastern Syria composed of local Shia converts
October
25, 2021
Iran
has formed a new military brigade in Syria comprised of local Shia converts,
according to a report earlier this month by Orient News, a UAE-based Syrian
opposition news outlet.
The
report states that the Hashemiyoon Brigade has been operating since mid-August
and has been engaged in military activity alongside other pro-Iranian factions,
such as the Zainabiyoun, Fatimiyoun and Huseynyun brigades.
Sources
have disclosed that the new unit was formed at the start of the year and is
based in the eastern Syrian city of Al-Bukamal. They are said to also maintain
a presence in Al-Mayadin, Deir Ez-Zor and Raqqa, with new offices opened in
Aleppo and the countryside of Damascus.
The
sources also allege that the leader of the group is a Youssef Al-Hamdan, also
known as Abu Issa Al-Masshadani, in addition to Musa Al-Mahmoud, who was
recently appointed by Tehran as a dignitary in Al-Bukamal.
A
report by Al-Monitor yesterday states that the Hashemiyoun have been working to
exert influence over local tribal leaders and to convince them, along with
clerics and other influential leaders, to join the Iranian-affiliated Euphrates
Valley Tribes and Clans Council, "with the aim of spreading Shiism in the
area".
One
sheikh of the Bakara tribe in Deir ez-Zor was quoted in the report as saying,
"All the members of the Hashemiyoon Brigade are tribesmen from the area,
especially from Deir ez-Zor. The brigade is estimated to have around 200
members so far."
"Tehran
is well aware of the tribes' influence in this part of Syria, as they are the
original inhabitants with the largest population density—something that could
help spread Shiism across the Syrian communities. Also, Iran [resorted to
tribes] since it could no longer cover all battlefronts, given the ongoing
losses and the desertion of dozens of fighters," the source added.
Source:
Middle East Monitor
Please
click the following URL to read the full text of the original story:
--------
Islamic
Jihad calls for clash with Israel over hunger-striking Palestinian prisoners
October
25, 2021
The
Islamic Jihad movement yesterday called on Palestinians to "clash with the
Israeli occupation" in support of the six hunger striking prisoners in
Israeli detention.
The
Palestinian Prisoners' Club yesterday warned that six hunger-striking prisoners
are now in "extreme danger" and could die in prison. They named them:
Kayed Al-Fasous,Miqdad Qawasmeh, Alaa Al-Araj, Hisham Abu Hawash, Shadi Abu
Aker and Ayyad Al-Harimi.
The
organisation pointed out that Al-Fasfous had been on a hunger strike for 102
days, Qawasmeh for 95 days, Al-Araj for 78 days, Abu Hawwash for 69 days, Abu Aker
for 61 days and Al-Harimi for 32 days.
"We
call on the masses to participate in the activities of supporting the striking
detainees, and to engage with the occupation in support of our sons and
brothers who are suffering from hunger and Israeli terrorism," the
movement's spokesperson, Tariq Ezz Al-Din, said in a statement.
Source:
Middle East Monitor
Please
click the following URL to read the full text of the original story:
--------
Official
Blasts UN Rapporteur for Politically-Tainted Report against Iran
2021-October-26
“At
a time when the world is suffering from the attitudes and policies of such
Western countries like the United States, issuance of such a report against the
Islamic Republic, which, itself, is a victim of these countries’ actions is a
completely political and diversionary measure,” Qaribabadi said on Monday after
a report issued by Rehman on situation of human rights in Iran.
The
“ill-intentioned” report, the official lamented, had intentionally ignored
various instances of extensive progress in the area of human rights in Iran.
The
so-called UN official had also used “mendacious claims” made by foreign-based
anti-Iran terrorist groups, which themselves are guilty of violating human
rights, to devise the report’s central planks, Qaribabadi added.
“The
Islamic Republic constantly moves towards enhancement and betterment of human
rights, and this is based on religious guidelines not international obligations
or political reports,” he noted.
Iran's
Judiciary Chief Gholamhossein Mohseni Ejeyee had in September blasted the
western countries allegations about violation of human rights by the Islamic
Republic, saying that such claims are disgraceful lies.
Mohseni
Ejeyee categorically dismissed the human rights accusations leveled against
Iran by some western states and described such a move as disgraceful at a time
when the West does not show any respect for human rights.
The
Iranian judiciary chief, meantime, referred to the anti-Iran Mojahedin-e Khalq
Organization (MKO also known as MEK, NCRI or PMOI) terrorist group which is
operating against Iran in some western countries with the backing of those
governments.
Source:
Fars News Agency
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--------
Israel
lifts its decade-long travel warning for Morocco
26
October ,2021
Israel
has lifted a travel warning for Morocco in place for over a decade, while
warning travelers to remain alert while visiting there.
“The
estimated level of threat in Morocco has dropped,” Israel’s National Security
Council said in a text message. “At the same time, it is advisable to continue
to exercise increased vigilance while staying in the country.”
Source:
Al Arabiya
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--------
Iran,
EU to meet in prelude to nuclear accord talks
25
October ,2021
Iran
and the European Union will hold talks in Brussels on Wednesday designed to
clear the way for a wider diplomatic push to revive the 2015 nuclear deal, the
Islamic Republic’s lead negotiator said.
Deputy
Foreign Minister Ali Bagheri Kani said in a series of tweets that he’ll meet
EU’s deputy foreign policy chief Enrique Mora, adding that other signatories to
the accord should “call out the US on its sanctions record.” Tehran is
“determined to engage in negotiations that would remove sanctions,” he said.
The
Brussels meeting is a prelude to the resumption of broader talks in Vienna
between Iran and world powers on how to revive the 2015 pact that gave Iran
sanctions relief in exchange for curbs on its nuclear program.
Source:
Al Arabiya
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--------
Iranian
court sentences man to 10 months’ jail, lashes for stealing cashews
25
October ,2021
An
Iranian court sentenced a man to 10 months in prison and 40 lashes for stealing
three packs of cashews, Fars news agency reported on Monday.
The
conservative news agency described the verdict as surprising and pointed to the
“disproportion between the sentence and the crime committed.”
For
the latest headlines, follow our Google News channel online or via the app.
It
called on the judiciary to “explain or correct” the ruling against the
45-year-old father of three.
The
judiciary’s Mizan Online agency announced the formation of a “special
commission” in Qom province to study the issue of the “proportionality of the
offence.”
It
did not specify where the trial took place.
The
commission “will try to use all legal abilities to reduce the sentence,” Mizan
Online said.
It
added that the offender had “been sentenced to one year in prison for theft in
2019, but his sentence had been suspended due to the return of the stolen
goods.”
The
latest ruling drew ridicule on social media, with many drawing a comparison
with the classic Victor Hugo novel Les Miserables.
Source:
Al Arabiya
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click the following URL to read the full text of the original story:
--------
North America
Taliban
denial of cooperating US in controlling Al-Qaida is war announcement: Lindsey
Graham
26
Oct 2021
The
prominent Republican Lindsey Graham has dragged the US president Joe Biden as
the most incompetent president in his life as the Afghanistan crisis is
looming.
Lindsey
Graham who was talking on Fox News said that Biden’s plans did not work and if
there is someone to blame for Afghanistan then Biden should look in the mirror.
“President
Joe Biden turned down military advice. They don’t know if there is 350 or 700
American left behind but we do know that there are thousands of Afghans who
fought along our side that have been left behind.” Said Graham.
The
Republican senator also accused the Taliban of policing Al-Qaida as the former
denied to the Department of State to help the US control the terror group.
“Afghanistan
is like a freefall. Al-Qaida is flourishing there, ISIS is getting stronger.”
Added Graham.
Source:
Khaama Press
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--------
US
hits out at Sudan’s military after coup, freezes $700 mln in economic aid
25
October ,2021
The
US hit out at Sudan’s military on Monday and called for the immediate release
of the country’s prime minister and other government officials hours after an
apparent coup was carried out.
“The
US Embassy condemns the forced removal of the civilian government by Sudan’s
armed forces, and their actions to undermine the country’s democratic
transition. We call for the military to immediately cease violence, release
detained officials, and ensure the safety of Sudanese citizens demonstrating
for democratic and civilian leadership,” the US Embassy in Khartoum tweeted.
For
the latest headlines, follow our Google News channel online or via the app.
It
also advised US citizens in Sudan to “shelter in place.”
Early
Monday, Sudan’s top military general announced that they had seized power from
the transitional civilian government.
Prime
Minister Abdalla Hamdok and at least four other government officials were
reportedly arrested. The military was meant to hand over the leadership of the
country’s ruling council to the civilian government in the coming weeks.
US
Special Envoy for the Horn of Africa Jeffrey Feltman said he had tried and been
unable to get in touch with Hamdok, with who he had three separate meetings in
recent days.
“As
we have said repeatedly, any changes to the transitional government by force
puts at risk US assistance,” Feltman had said before his comments that he tried
to contact Hamdok.
Feltman
was in Sudan for his second trip in less than a month, but he reportedly left
hours before the coup was carried out.
After
dictator Omar Al Bashir was overthrown in 2019, the US removed Sudan from the
list of state sponsors of terrorism, increased aid, and lobbied for more
international assistance.
The
US Senate Foreign Relations Committee chairman, Bob Menendez, released a
statement condemning Sudanese General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan’s decision to
dissolve the government. “The Sudanese military’s takeover of the state
apparatus is completely unacceptable and will have long-lasting consequences
with respect to US-Sudanese relations,” the top Democratic senator said.
Following
the coup, the military also cut off the internet across the entire country.
Source:
Al Arabiya
Please
click the following URL to read the full text of the original story:
--------
Embassy
in Khartoum advises American citizens to shelter in place
25
October ,2021
The
US Embassy in Sudan’s capital Khartoum advised American citizens to shelter in
place and stay aware of their surroundings after reports of armed forces
blocking areas in and around the city, the embassy said in a tweet on Monday.
Source:
Al Arabiya
Please
click the following URL to read the full text of the original story:
--------
US
seeking cooperation with Turkey on 'common priorities'
Michael
Hernandez
25.10.2021
WASHINGTON
The
State Department said on Monday it is seeking to work with Turkey on issues of
mutual interest following a row that began after the US joined with nine other
countries to call for the release of Turkish businessman Osman Kavala.
"The
Biden administration seeks cooperation with Turkey on common priorities, and as
with any NATO ally, we will continue to engage in dialogue to address any
disagreement," State Department spokesman Ned Price told reporters.
"We
believe the best way forward is through cooperation on issues of mutual
interest, and we know that we have many issues of mutual interest with
Turkey," he added.
Kavala
faced charges over the 2013 Gezi Park protests, a small number of
demonstrations in Istanbul that later transformed into nationwide protests
which left eight protesters and a police officer dead. He was acquitted of all
charges in February 2020. An appeals court, however, overturned the verdict in
January.
Kavala
is also accused of involvement in the 2016 defeated coup orchestrated by the
Fetullah Terrorist Organization (FETO) in Turkey. He was remanded into custody
on charges of spying in March.
The
US joined with nine other countries in demanding Kavala's release on Oct. 18,
claiming the ongoing case has cast a shadow over democracy and the rule of law
in Turkey.
Turkish
President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said he ordered the Foreign Ministry to
designate the ambassadors persona non grata in response, prompting several
embassies and the US to issue another statement on Monday in which they said
they maintain "compliance with Article 41 of the Vienna Convention on
Diplomatic Relations."
The
ambassadors took a step back from slander against the Turkish judiciary and
Turkey with the new statement, said Erdogan.
"We
believe that these ambassadors, who expressed their commitment to Article 41 of
the Vienna Convention, that is, the commitment to abide by the laws and
regulations of countries and not interfering in internal affairs, will now be
more careful in their statements on Turkey's sovereign rights," said
Erdogan.
He
said anyone who does not respect the independence of Turkey and its
sensitivities cannot stay in Turkey "regardless of their positions."
Source:
Anadolu Agency
Please
click the following URL to read the full text of the original story:
https://www.aa.com.tr/en/americas/us-seeking-cooperation-with-turkey-on-common-priorities/2402755
--------
US
calls for 'immediate release' of Sudan premier amid coup
Michael
Hernandez
25.10.2021
WASHINGTON
The
US called on Sudan's military to release without delay Prime Minister Abdalla
Hamdok amid an ongoing putsch.
“We
reject the actions by the military and call for the immediate release of the
prime minister,” White House spokeswoman Karine Jean-Pierre told reporters
aboard Air Force One, further expressing deep alarm over the coup.
Sudan's
military arrested Hamdok and members of the civilian government in the capital
Khartoum early Monday.
The
Ministry of Culture and Information said the military arrested Hamdok after he
refused to support what it described as a "coup".
Later
Monday, Gen. Abdel-Fattah al-Burhan, the head of Sudan's ruling military
council, declared a state of emergency and dissolved the Sovereign Council,
which was created to run the country after the ouster of long-serving President
Omar al-Bashir in 2019.
Source:
Anadolu Agency
Please
click the following URL to read the full text of the original story:
https://www.aa.com.tr/en/americas/us-calls-for-immediate-release-of-sudan-premier-amid-coup/2402506
--------
Africa
South
Sudan calls for dialogue between Sudanese parties after coup attempt
Benjamin
Takpiny
26.10.2021
JUBA,
South Sudan
South
Sudan called on Sudan’s leadership Monday to return to dialogue after the
country’s military dissolved the government and enacted a state of emergency.
“We
encourage them to quickly return to dialogue as the appropriate way to address
their differences. We recognize that stability in Sudan has a direct bearing on
our common goal of building greater stability in the region,” South Sudan’s
Foreign Affairs Ministry said in a statement.
The
ministry said it is keenly following the unfolding political tensions within
the ruling coalition in the Republic of Sudan and President Salva Kiir, on
behalf of the South Sudanese people, affirms their unwavering solidarity with
Sudan.
“In
building the coalition, Sudan has shown the world that Africans can and will
solve their problems from within. For that, the government and people of Sudan
have our utmost respect as fellow Africans. The path towards lasting peace will
inevitably be bumpy with difficult choices along the way. Yet we are confident
in the wisdom of Sudanese leaders. We know them all well and believe they will
make the best decisions,” it said.
It
said that South Sudan remains steadfast in supporting the aspirations and
stance of the Sudanese people and will avail all its diplomatic channels to
support the country.
On
Monday, Gen. Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, the head of Sudan’s Sovereign Council,
announced the dissolution of the transitional government and the council and
declared a national state of emergency.
In
a televised address, Burhan said the 2019 agreement on the transitional
government with power sharing between the civilian and military leadership had
turned into a struggle threatening peace and security.
He
said the military needed to protect the country’s safety and security as stated
in the constitutional declaration, announcing the dissolution of the
power-sharing ruling council and the government.
He
also announced the removal of state governors, saying elections would be held
in July 2023.
Source:
Anadolu Agency
Please
click the following URL to read the full text of the original story:
--------
Military
kills 3, injures 80 during anti-coup protests in Sudan
25.10.2021
KHARTOUM,
Sudan
At
least three protesters were killed and 80 others injured on Monday by military
gunfire in front of the Sudanese army headquarters in the capital Khartoum, a
doctors committee said.
Protests
took place in response to the military’s arrest of Prime Minister Abdalla
Hamdok and members of the civilian government in Khartoum earlier on Monday.
According
to the Central Committee of Sudanese Doctors, security forces fired live
bullets at the demonstrators.
The
Ministry of Culture and Information said the military arrested Hamdok after he
refused to support what it described as a "coup".
Also
Monday, Gen. Abdel-Fattah al-Burhan, the head of Sudan's ruling military
council, declared a state of emergency and dissolved the Sovereign Council,
which was created to run the country after the ouster of long-serving President
Omar al-Bashir in 2019.
Source:
Anadolu Agency
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Pan
African body 'dismayed' over situation in Sudan
Addis
Getachew Tadesse
25.10.2021
ADDIS
ABABA, Ethiopia
African
Union Commission head Moussa Faki Mahamat on Monday expressed "deep
dismay" over the volatile political situation in Sudan.
In
a statement posted on the commission's Twitter account, Mahamat said he was
alarmed at the developments which led to the arrest of Prime Minister Abdella
Hamdok and other civilian officials.
The
military wing of the transitional government put Hamdok under house arrest just
a day after the US special envoy to the Horn of Africa, Jeffry Feltman,
mediated talks between the two sides.
The
military has just now declared a nationwide state of emergency as protesters
take to the streets to demand the reinstatement of the civilian government.
Source:
Anadolu Agency
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click the following URL to read the full text of the original story:
https://www.aa.com.tr/en/africa/pan-african-body-dismayed-over-situation-in-sudan/2402374
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EU
expresses 'utmost concern' over Sudan upheaval
Beyza
Binnur Donmez
25.10.2021
The
EU is following the coup attempt in Sudan with "utmost concern,"
calling on the parties to continue the transition process as planned, the
union's foreign policy chief said on Monday.
"Following
with utmost concern ongoing events in Sudan," Josep Borrell said on
Twitter. "The EU calls on all stakeholders and regional partners to put
back on track the transition process."
Sudan's
military arrested Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok and members of the civilian
government in the capital Khartoum early Monday.
The
Ministry of Culture and Information said the military arrested Hamdok after he
refused to support what it described as a "coup".
Later
Monday, Gen. Abdel-Fattah al-Burhan, head of Sudan's ruling military council,
declared a state of emergency and dissolved the Sovereign Council, which was
created to run the country after the ouster of long-serving President Omar
Al-Bashir in 2019, and the transitional government.
Source:
Anadolu Agency
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click the following URL to read the full text of the original story:
https://www.aa.com.tr/en/africa/eu-expresses-utmost-concern-over-sudan-upheaval/2402319
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Sudan
general declares state of emergency, dissolves gov’t
25.10.2021
KHARTOUM,
Sudan
The
head of Sudan’s ruling military council, Gen. Abdel-Fattah al-Burhan, declared
a state of emergency and dissolved the transitional sovereign council and
government.
The
move came hours after the military arrested Prime Minister Abdullah Hamdok and
ministers in the civilian government.
We
are declaring "a state of emergency in the country, dissolving the
Sovereign Council and the cabinet and freezing the work of the Empowerment
Committee," al-Burhan said in a televised speech.
Al-Burhan
also announced the suspension of some provisions of the constitutional document
outlining political transition in Sudan.
According
to the Sudanese Information Ministry, a military force arrested Hamdok early
Monday after he refused to support what it described as a "coup".
Until
today, Sudan was ruled by a Sovereign Council of military and civilian
officials, which oversees the transition period until elections slated for
2023, as part of a precarious power-sharing pact between the military and the
Forces for Freedom and Change (FFC) coalition.
Al-Burhan
underlined his commitment to the Juba Peace Agreement signed with armed
movements in October 2020.
He
said an independent government of technocrats would be formed to rule the
country until elections in July 2023.
Source:
Anadolu Agency
Please
click the following URL to read the full text of the original story:
https://www.aa.com.tr/en/africa/sudan-general-declares-state-of-emergency-dissolves-gov-t/2402265
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Gunmen
kill 18 at mosque in northern Nigeria's Niger state -residents
October
26, 2021
MAIDUGURI,
Nigeria, Oct 25 (Reuters) - Armed men on motorbikes killed at least 18 people
at a mosque in Niger state in northern Nigeria, two residents told Reuters on
Monday.
The
attackers arrived in the Maza-Kuka community of Mashegu local government area
at roughly 5 a.m., the residents said.
"They
came and went straight to the mosque and shot at worshippers without sparing
anyone," resident Abdulganiyu Hassan told Reuters.
Hassan
said they abducted more than 10 others. Bello Ayuba, another resident and
witness, said at least 20 were wounded.
A
Niger state police spokesman did not immediately respond to calls or messages
seeking comment.
Source:
Reuters
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click the following URL to read the full text of the original story:
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Uganda
investigating Islamist link to bombing after IS responsibility claim
By
Elias Biryabarema
October
25, 2021
KAMPALA,
Oct 25 (Reuters) - Uganda said on Monday it was investigating whether fighters
allied with the militant group Islamic State (IS) had carried out a bombing in
Kampala on Saturday night that killed one person and injured three others.
The
bomb, set off in a restaurant in a suburb on the northern outskirts of the
capital, killing a 20-year-old waitress, was an improvised device made from
nails and other metal fragments, according to the police.
Islamic
State claimed responsibility for the blast in a statement posted on a Telegram
channel late on Sunday. read more
The
police said their investigations pointed to "an act of domestic
terror".
"The
attack was perpetrated by criminals that intend to terrorise the country and
the people of Uganda," Abbas Byakagaba, the director for
counter-terrorism, told a press conference on Monday.
Byakagaba
said the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), an IS-linked militant group, was one
potential perpetrator.
The
ADF has operated in dense forests in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo
across the border with Uganda for more than three decades and began killing
civilians in large numbers in 2014.
It
has publicly aligned itself with Islamic State, although a June report from the
United Nations found no evidence of direct support from Islamic State for the
ADF.
ADF
fighters have in the past been blamed for assassinations and attacks in Uganda.
In July, the government blamed it for the attempted assassination of a
government minister.
Police
spokesman Fred Enanga told the press conference they believed the ADF had
sleeper cells in the country and that they had arrested 13 of its collaborators
last week.
Source:
Reuters
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click the following URL to read the full text of the original story:
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Europe
Prince
Charles to meet imam of Al-Azhar mosque and university next month
October
26, 2021
London:
Britain´s Prince Charles and wife Camilla are to visit Jordan and Egypt next
month on their first major foreign tour since the coronavirus pandemic began
last year, aides said on Monday.
The
royal couple´s November 16-19 visit will start in Jordan.
The
tour comes after the heir to the UK throne visits Glasgow next week for the
COP26 climate summit. It will end in Egypt, which will take over the UN climate
presidency from Britain next year.
"In
this decisive decade for climate action, the next 12 months is therefore
expected to see a significant cooperation between the UK and Egypt," said
Chris Fitzgerald, deputy private secretary to Prince Charles.
Source:
The News Pakistan
Please
click the following URL to read the full text of the original story:
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German
Court Sentences Islamic State Member to 10 Years in Prison
October
25, 2021
A
German woman received a 10-year prison sentence Monday for allowing a young
Yazidi girl, who was being kept as a slave in Iraq by the woman and her
husband, to die of thirst in the hot sun.
German
authorities said the 30-year-old convert to Islam, identified only as Jennifer
W., was a member of Islamic State in Iraq.
The
Higher Regional Court convicted the defendant on charges including membership
in a terrorist organization abroad, aiding and abetting attempted murder,
attempted war crimes and crimes against humanity.
According
to German news agency dpa, federal prosecutors accused Jennifer W. of letting
the 5-year-old Yazidi girl die after the woman's husband, an Islamic State
fighter, chained the girl in a courtyard unprotected from the heat. Prosecutors
said the defendant's husband was punishing the girl for wetting her mattress.
Islamic
State views the minority Yazidis as heretics. In 2014, IS fighters killed
scores of Yazidi men in Iraq during an onslaught on the Yazidi town of Sinjar.
IS also enslaved thousands of women and girls in acts that amounted to genocide,
according to the United Nations.
Judge
Joachim Baier said the child was "defenseless and helplessly exposed to
the situation," adding that the defendant "had to reckon from the
beginning that the child, who was tied up in the heat of the sun, was in danger
of dying."
German
media reported that the defendant, who is from Lohne in Lower Saxony, was
raised as a Protestant but converted to Islam in 2013. She traveled to Iraq
through Turkey and Syria in 2014 to join Islamic State, according to The
Associated Press.
Source:
VOA News
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Turkey
rescues 79 irregular migrants pushed back by Greece
Gökhan
Düzyol
26.10.2021
Turkey
rescued 79 irregular migrants in the Aegean Sea after they were pushed back by
Greek authorities, the Turkish Coast Guard Command said late Monday.
In
a statement on its website, the Turkish Coast Guard said that on Oct. 23,
Turkish forces rescued 33 people in a rubber boat off Kusadasi district in
Aydin province who were pushed into Turkish territorial waters by Greek
authorities.
In
a separate incident in the same area on Oct. 24, Turkish forces rescued 25
irregular migrants who were pushed into Turkish waters by Greece, the statement
added.
Separately,
on Oct. 11, coast guard teams rescued 21 irregular migrants in a rubber boat
off Didim district in Aydin.
They
were transferred to the provincial migration office.
Earlier
this month, the European Union expressed concern over migrant pushbacks, saying
such incidents damage the bloc's reputation.
"Some
of these reports are shocking, and I'm extremely concerned," Ylva
Johansson, the EU’s commissioner for home affairs, told reporters, referring to
a joint investigation by media outlets Der Spiegel, ARD and Liberation.
Source:
Anadolu Agency
Please
click the following URL to read the full text of the original story:
https://www.aa.com.tr/en/europe/turkey-rescues-79-irregular-migrants-pushed-back-by-greece/2402819
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EU
urges Israel to halt construction of new settlements
Omer
Tugrul Cam
25.10.2021
BRUSSELS
The
EU on Monday called on the Israeli government to halt construction of new
settlements, after Tel Aviv announced plans to move on construction of
thousands of new settlement homes.
According
to a statement by the office of Josep Borrel, the EU foreign policy chief, the
European pact said the settlements are in violation of the international law
and obstructing a two-state solution.
The
statement said that the EU has repeatedly noted it would not recognize any
alteration on which both sides agreed with regards to the pre-1967 borders
including Jerusalem.
It
further added that there were 13 illegal Jewish settlements in occupied East
Jerusalem and 253 others in the West Bank. More than 660,000 Jewish settlers
reside in these settlements, which makes life even harder for Palestinians
living under occupation.
Source:
Anadolu Agency
Please
click the following URL to read the full text of the original story:
https://www.aa.com.tr/en/europe/eu-urges-israel-to-halt-construction-of-new-settlements/2402764
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Germany
condemns coup attempt in Sudan
Ayhan
Simsek
25.10.2021
BERLIN
Germany
on Monday condemned the coup attempt in Sudan and urged the country’s military
to respect the peaceful transition process towards democracy.
“Reports
of another coup attempt in Sudan is disturbing, this attempt must be clearly
condemned,” German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas said in a statement.
He
called on the country’s security forces to return to their barracks
immediately.
“I
call on all those responsible for the security and the state order in Sudan to
respect the will of the people, continue the peaceful political transition
process towards democracy. This attempted coup must be stopped immediately,” he
said.
Maas
also called on Sudan’s political leaders to resolve their differences through
peaceful dialogue.
“They
owe this to the people of Sudan who fought for an end to the dictatorship and
for democratic change,” he said.
Sudan's
military arrested the country's prime minister and members of the civilian
government, officials in the capital Khartoum announced early Monday.
The
Ministry of Culture and Information’s official account said the military
arrested Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok after he refused to support what it
described as a "coup".
After
a failed military coup last month, deep tensions between the military and
civilian administration erupted in Sudan.
Source:
Anadolu Agency
Please
click the following URL to read the full text of the original story:
https://www.aa.com.tr/en/europe/germany-condemns-coup-attempt-in-sudan/2402003
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