Tulsi Rosary Was Not Removed From Bangladesh Child’s Neck; Muslim Boy’s Video Falsely Viral
New Age Islam News Bureau
07 Sep 2024
Tulsi rosary was not removed from Bangladesh child's neck; Muslim boy's video falsely viral - Alt News
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· “Child Gets Freedom From Shirk”: False Allegation That Islamists In Bangladesh Cut Off The ‘Tulsi Mala’ Of A Hindu Child In Exchange For Relief Supplies
· The Heads Of The CIA And MI6 Issue Joint Call For Gaza Ceasefire
· Pakistani Man Charged Over Alleged New York City Plot To Target Jews On October 7 Anniversary
· Saudi Arabia Takes Major Strides In Cloud Seeding To Combat Water Scarcity, Expand Green Areas, And Combat Desertification
· Govt Asks Ulema To Play Key Role In Countering Terrorism And Religious Intolerance
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South Asia
· Chargé D’Affaires At The U.S. Embassy Emphasizes Support For Afghanistan’s People
· Prof Yunus visits injured victims at Neurosciences hospital
· No one will be allowed to damage Afghans’ unity”
· Deputy Chief of Army Assesses Security Posts Along Durand Line
· Iran seizes 151 kilograms of Narcotics near Afghanistan border
· Central Bank of Afghanistan reports 17.25% increase in currency value against US Dollar
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Mideast
· Quds Authority: What Is Happening At Al-Aqsa Mosque Portends Bleak Future
· Hamas Losing Support in Gaza as Conflict Tests Islamic Movement
· Israel/Palestine War: Islamic Organisation Seeks Enforcement Of ICJ Judgement
· Thirteen Palestinians killed in Israeli strikes on Gaza, WAFA says
· US-Iraq deal would see hundreds of troops withdraw in first year, sources say
· Gazans face dire conditions in hospital courtyard
· Muslim World League condemns Israeli bombing of Gaza's Al-Zaytoun
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North America
· CAIR to Release Follow-up Election Survey Results on Muslim Voters in Key Battleground States
· CAIR Urges Muslim Community to Participate in National Muslim Voter Registration Day
· Former Vice-President Dick Cheney to vote for Kamala Harris
· Trump's criminal sentencing delayed until after election
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Arab World
· Saudi Content Creator, Ibrahim Al-Dosaimani, Shares Health Tips To Thousands
· Saudi Arabia to host Chinese contemporary art exhibition
· Saudi Tourism Ministry wins communication award at SGCA 2024
· Saudi industry minister meets heads of Chinese lithium, copper mining firms
· Rare Griffon vulture breeding colonies discovered at Prince Mohammed bin Salman Royal Reserve
· Al-Nassr star Ronaldo calls Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea his ‘second home’, describes AlUla as ‘spiritual’
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Pakistan
· Three ‘militants’ killed in attack on paramilitary HQ in Mohmand
· Karsaz accident suspects granted bail as victims’ family pardons ‘in the name of Allah’
· Imran Khan threatens IO, NAB chairman with 'legal consequences'
· oppose special powers for security forces
· Chief Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa to visit Kabul for talks with Afghan officials
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Africa
· Death Toll In Kenya School Fire Rises To 18, With 70 Children Missing
· Army Kill 152 Terrorists, Arrest 109 In One Week – DHQ Confirms
· Bandits kidnap six family members of Islamic cleric in Sokoto
· WHO and Africa CDC launch response plan to the mpox outbreak
· South Africa's justice minister denies corruption in bank scandal
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Southeast Asia
· Say Goodbye To These Federal Awards If You Commit Any Crime And Tarnish Malaysia’s Honour, King Tells Recipients
· PM Anwar’s Russia visit secures strategic foothold for Malaysia in global landscape
· Bukit Aman has eyes on company linked to deviationist Islamic teachings thought to be using kids for donations
· Umno’s ulama council: No need for Muslim-owned eateries to get halal cert as they are bound by Islamic rules on halal and ‘haram’
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India
· Jammu And Kashmir Heading For 'Historic' Assembly Elections Under National Flag And Constitution: Amit Shah
· Miscreants Hack Website Of Amroha School Which Expelled Class 5 Muslim Boy Over Non-Veg Food; Posts ‘Free Palestine’ Message
· BJP Functionary From Nilgiris Arrested For Spreading False Rumours Of ‘Love Jihad’ On Social Media
· Bihar: Police book 19, arrest 2 for attacking man on beef suspicion
· People from jail being brought to fight me: Omar Abdullah sees Delhi 'plot' for J&K polls
· Article 370 part of history, will never come back: Amit Shah at BJP manifesto launch for J-K polls
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Europe
· Conservative Ex-Mayor Attacks Top Tories For 'Inflammatory' Anti-Muslim Language
· More private clinics refusing abortions – Russian Orthodox Church
· UK could send criminals to EU – Telegraph
· Actor Shia Labeouf 'Squares Up' To Men And Yells Outside Edinburgh Pub In Tense Exchange
Compiled by New Age Islam News Bureau
URL: https://www.newageislam.com/islamic-world-news/tulsi-rosary-bangladesh-child-muslim-/d/133145
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Tulsi Rosary Was Not Removed From Bangladesh Child’s Neck; Muslim Boy’s Video Falsely Viral
Tulsi rosary was not removed from Bangladesh child's neck; Muslim boy's video falsely viral - Alt News
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6th September 2024
By Abhishek Kumar
A video has gone viral on social media showing a man wearing a skull cap giving ration to a child who is standing in knee-deep water, and cutting a cord around the child’s neck. The Bangla text on the video claims, “Child gets freedom from Shirk during the distribution of relief material in Noakhali.” The video is being shared with the allegation that Islamists in Bangladesh cut off the sacred thread or a ‘Tulsi Mala’ of a Hindu child in exchange for relief supplies.
Jitendra Pratap Singh, a user frequently found sharing misinformation, tweeted the video, claiming, “Look at how the new government of Bangladesh is wiping out Hindus. A Hindu child, stranded and hungry for days in the floods in Noakhali, was forced by a Maulvi from Jamaat-e-Islami to recite the Kalima before receiving help. The Maulvi then forcibly removed the child’s Tulsi mala, which is a Hindu symbol, and told the child that he was no longer a Hindu. When the child asked for the garland back, he was told that he wouldn’t receive any more relief supplies.” (Archived link)
Tulsi Rosary is generally worn by Hindus of the Vaishnav sect.
Right-wing propaganda website OpIndia also reported on the video, describing the child as Hindu and alleging that the Maulvi removed the Tulsi mala. Although the article was later updated to clarify that the child’s religion could not be definitively confirmed, the URL of the article still labelled the child as Hindu. (Archived link)
Alt News traced a tweet by Bangladesh-based fact-checker Sohanur Rahman, who clarified that the child in the video was not a Hindu, and what was removed from his neck was a talisman, not a Tulsi mala.
Rahman also identified the location as Noakhali, where the Salafi Islamic school, Tauheed Academy and Islamic Center in Chandpur, was distributing relief. The Salafi or Ahle Hadith sect opposes wearing tabeez (amulets/talismans), and several videos of Salafi followers cutting talismans are available online. This specific video was uploaded on Facebook by a user named Russell Khan.
Rahman spoke with Abdul Malek Miyaji, assistant principal of Jamia Darut Tauheed, which is operated by Tauheed Academy and Islamic Center. Miyaji confirmed that he was the person cutting the talisman in the video. He explained that the video was filmed while he was distributing relief supplies in Noakhali. The child in question is a Muslim boy named Sohail, who is in the third grade at a local madrasa. His father’s name is Abdul Haq, and his mother is Razia Khatun, both from Char Alagi village in Noakhali. Further confirmation came from Mohammad Yusuf, a representative of Char Alagi village. Yusuf shared another video of the child, in which the boy clearly states that his name is Sohail, his father’s name is Abdul Haq, and that he is a Muslim. This video was recorded after the false claims about the boy being Hindu had gone viral in India.
In Islam, “Shirk” refers to the sin of associating anyone or anything with Allah in terms of divine power. It is considered one of the gravest sins in Islam as it contradicts the core belief in monotheism, known as Tawheed. While many Muslims wear talismans or visit shrines, certain Islamic groups, like Salafis, strictly oppose such practices. Wearing a talisman or seeking blessings from a shrine is seen by some as conflicting with the fundamental tenet that only Allah has the power to grant protection or favour.
To sum it up, several Right-wing propaganda sites and social media users falsely claimed that the video showed a Muslim cutting a Hindu child’s Tabeez (Tulsi rosary) in exchange for relief supplies. In reality, the video depicts the removal of a talisman from the neck of a Muslim child by a Salafi group during relief distribution in Bangladesh.
Source:altnews.in
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https://www.altnews.in/video-of-a-bangladeshi-flood-victim-child-shared-with-communal-angle/
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The Heads Of The CIA And MI6 Issue Joint Call For Gaza Ceasefire
Displaced woman Iqbal Al-Zeidi stands in front of her tent which was torn by an Israeli strike, on the courtyard of Al-Aqsa Martyrs hospital, amid the Israel-Hamas conflict, in Deir Al-Balah in the central Gaza Strip, September 5, 2024. REUTERS/Ramadan Abed
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September 07, 2024
LONDON: The heads of the American and British foreign intelligence agencies said Saturday they are “working ceaselessly” for a ceasefire in Gaza, using a rare joint public statement to press for peace.
CIA Director William Burns and MI6 Chief Richard Moore said their agencies had “exploited our intelligence channels to push hard for restraint and de-escalation.”
In an opinion piece for the Financial Times, the two spymasters said a ceasefire in Israel’s war against Hamas “could end the suffering and appalling loss of life of Palestinian civilians and bring home the hostages after 11 months of hellish confinement.”
Burns has been heavily involved in efforts to broker an end to the fighting, traveling to Egypt in August for high-level talks aimed at bringing about a hostage deal and at least a temporary halt to the conflict.
So far there has been no agreement, though United States officials insist a deal is close. US President Joe Biden said recently that “just a couple more issues” remain unresolved. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, however, has said reports of a breakthrough are “exactly inaccurate.”
The US and the United Kingdom are both staunch allies of Israel, though London diverged from Washington on Monday by suspending some arms exports to Israel because of the risk they could be used to break international law.
Burns and Moore stressed the strength of the trans-Atlantic relationship in the face of “an unprecedented array of threats,” including an assertive Russia, an ever-more powerful China and the constant threat from international terrorism — all complicated by rapid technological change.
They highlighted Russia’s “reckless campaign of sabotage” across Europe and the “cynical use of technology to spread lies and disinformation designed to drive wedges between us.”
US officials have long accused Moscow of meddling in American elections, and this week the Biden administration seized Kremlin-run websites and charged employees of Russian broadcaster RT with covertly funding social media campaigns to pump out pro-Kremlin messages and sow discord around November’s presidential contest.
Source:arabnews.com
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https://www.arabnews.com/node/2570412/middle-east
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Pakistani Man Charged Over Alleged New York City Plot To Target Jews On October 7 Anniversary
Pakistani man arrested in Canada for plotting ‘largest’ attack in US since 9/11 on Hamas attack anniversary
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By REUTERS
SEPTEMBER 7, 2024
A Pakistani citizen living in Canada was arrested on Wednesday and charged with planning an attack on New York City Jewish community in support of the Islamic State, the Justice Department said on Friday.
Muhammad Shahzeb Khan, 20, is accused of plotting a mass shooting at a Jewish center in Brooklyn around October 7, 2024, nearly one year after Hamas' attack that killed more than 1,200 people in Israel.
Attorney General Merrick Garland said Khan, who is also known as Shahzeb Jadoon, aimed to kill "as many Jewish people as possible."
The Department of Justice was not able to confirm if Khan had obtained legal counsel.
Attempt to travel south
Khan attempted to travel from Canada to the United States where he intended to use automatic and semi-automatic weapons to carry out the attack, according to the indictment.
The Royal Canadian Mounted Police said in a statement Friday they arrested Khan on Wednesday in Ormstown, Quebec, south of Montreal. He is set to appear in court in Montreal September 13.
He was arrested in Canada, just 12 miles (19 km) from the US border.
Khan told two undercover law enforcement officers of his plans to create "a real offline cell" of Islamic State supporters to carry out an attack, the indictment alleged.
He instructed them to obtain AR-style assault rifles, ammunition, and other materials to carry out the attacks and identified specific locations where the attacks would take place.
Khan targeted New York City because it has "the largest Jewish population in America," prosecutors said.
"We are deeply grateful to our Canadian partners for their critical law enforcement actions in this matter. Jewish communities — like all communities in this country — should not have to fear that they will be targeted by a hate-fueled terrorist attack," Garland said in a statement.
Source:jpost.com
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://www.jpost.com/international/islamic-terrorism/article-819052
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Saudi Arabia Takes Major Strides In Cloud Seeding To Combat Water Scarcity, Expand Green Areas, And Combat Desertification
The process involves aircraft and drones dispersing environmentally safe materials into clouds over carefully selected areas, official said. (SPA)
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September 06, 2024
RIYADH: The Kingdom has taken significant strides in its cloud-seeding program to increase rainfall, expand green areas, and combat desertification across the Kingdom, according to the Saudi Press Agency.
Ayman Al-Bar, executive director of the Regional Cloud Seeding Program, told the SPA on Thursday that the process involves aircraft and drones dispersing environmentally safe materials into clouds over carefully selected areas.
By targeting specific areas, a single cloud can increase its rainfall by up to 20 percent under ideal conditions, said Al-Bar.
In 2023, the program targeted six regions in Saudi Arabia, conducting 415 cloud-seeding flights, and dispersing 7,876 flares with four aircraft for over 1,300 hours.
Research on the operations was conducted by a separate aircraft for over 110 hours.
Al-Bar added: “The initiative has now entered its fifth phase, marking a new milestone in the country’s efforts to enhance water security. Our approach is tailored to enhance both the quantity and quality of rainfall from specific cloud types.”
Hussein bin Mohammed Al-Qahtani, spokesperson for the National Center of Meteorology, told the SPA that last year’s total rainfall was an estimated 4 billion cubic millimeters.
Al-Qahtani also highlighted the center’s efforts to localize cloud-seeding expertise, with 18 Saudi Arabia pilots joining the program.
According to the SPA, Saudi Arabia began its cloud-seeding initiative in 2004 and partnered with Weather Modification Inc. under the scientific oversight of the National Center for Atmospheric Research.
This collaboration focused on conducting cloud-seeding experiments in the Asir region, coupled with a comprehensive feasibility study.
Building on its initial findings, the Kingdom expanded its efforts in 2006-2007. During this period, a six-month cloud-seeding trial was conducted across central Saudi Arabia, encompassing the regions of Riyadh, Qassim, and Hail.
The program reached a new milestone in 2009 with a contract involving the WMI. This phase saw the deployment of 10 specialized aircraft for cloud-seeding operations, involving several elite Saudi Arabia scientists.
It takes about 30 minutes for the effects of cloud seeding to be seen, depending on the delivery method, which includes direct injection at the cloud top, base seeding or releasing the agent in the updraft below the cloud base.
Materials used vary based on temperature conditions, including solid carbon dioxide, or dry ice, used at low temperatures, and calcium chloride particles used at higher temperatures to form condensation nuclei.
Source:arabnews.com
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://www.arabnews.com/node/2570379/saudi-arabia
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Govt Asks Ulema To Play Key Role In Countering Terrorism And Religious Intolerance
Shehbaz Sahrif, Pakistan PM
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Kalbe Ali
September 7, 2024
ISLAMABAD: The federal authorities have decided to initiate a series of meetings with representatives of religious communities in order to strengthen measures aimed at countering terrorism and religious intolerance.
Interior Minister Senator Mohsin Raza Naqvi and Minister for Religious Affairs Chaudhry Salik Hussain discussed the matter in detail with a delegation of religious leaders led by Ruet-i-Hilal committee chairman Maulana Abdul Khabeer Azad, on Friday.
After a thorough discussion, a joint declaration adopted at the meeting emphasised the need for interfaith, inter-sect harmony and national unity.
Talking to the delegation, the interior minister earlier said: “We all are Pakistanis, and Pakistan comes first.” He emphasised the need “to stop the misuse of Islam and prevent people from being misled into terrorism”.
He made the government stance on the issue very clear by pointing out that anyone who takes up arms against the state is a terrorist. He said both Islam and the Constitution of Pakistan also endorsed this point of view.
Highlighting the need for unity to counter the menace of terrorism, the interior minister said the entire nation was being pushed into the fire. “We can only get out of this with the help of scholars. And we need to unite as a nation to eliminate terrorism,” he added.
He said the Defence Day gave an opportunity to those who had taken up arms against the state to lay down their arms, respect the state, recognise the Constitution, and obey the law.
Mr Naqvi told the delegation at the meeting that the federal ministers would visit each province and meet chief ministers and ulema to convey the message for countering the narrative of terrorists. He said scholars and spiritual leaders were the true representatives of their respective religions and not those who provoked others to take up arms against the state. Such exploitation in the name of religion must be stopped, he said.
‘Save the future’
Federal Minister for Religious Affairs Chaudhry Salik Hussain said: “We need to save the new generation from guns and fire, and the government, institutions, and scholars need to work together to provide a safe future for the new generation.”
He said that protection of every Pakistani’s life and property was the responsibility of the state, while religious scholars and spiritual leaders should guide the people and raise their voice against those who take up arms against the state.
Joint declaration
A joint declaration approved after the discussion rejected the narrative of extremists and terrorists in the country and stated that Islam is a religion of peace that teaches respect for humanity and strives for a society free from violence.
It termed interfaith and inter-sect harmony as well as national unity ‘essential’ in the current situation.
The “Paigham-i-Pakistan” declaration also mentioned that Islam guarantees the rights of women and children as well as non-Muslims.
The federal interior secretary, Islamabad chief commissioner, inspector general of police, deputy commissioner and officials of other relevant authorities also attended the meeting.
Among the religious leaders were Bishop Dr Joseph Arshad, Sardar Ranjit Singh Giani, Maulana Zia-ur-Rehman, Maulana Mohammad Tayyab Qureshi, Allama Mukhtar Ahmad Nadeem, Allama Shabbir Hassan, Allama Arif Hussain Waheedi, Mufti Gulzar Ahmed Naeemi, Maulana Tariq Ahmed Alvi, Maulana Sardar Mohammad Leghari, Mufti Farhan Naeem, Maulana Abdul Zahoor Farooqi, Maulana Abdul Aziz, Maulana Haroonur Rashid Balakoti, Allama Sajjad Hussain, Allama Mustafa Haider, Maulana Hussein Ali, Mufti Yousuf Kashmiri, Maulana Maqsood Ahmed Toheedi, Maulana Abid Israr, Qari Bilal Golravi, Maulana Ikrarullah Zahid, Maulana Abdul Salam Jalali, Mufti Abu Bakr Sadiq, Allama Saeed Ahmed Awan, Maulana Malik Amjad Awan, Dr Ershad Ahmed Khan, Sahibzada Atiqullah Mazhar, Pir Mumtaz Ahmed Zia Nizami, Maulana Mohammad Iqbal Naeemi, Allama Mohammad Rasheed Trabani, Fahad Jamil and Prof Zafarullah Jan.
Source:dawn.com
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https://www.dawn.com/news/1857470/govt-asks-ulema-to-play-key-role-in-countering-terrorism
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South Asia
Chargé D’Affaires At The U.S. Embassy Emphasizes Support For Afghanistan’s People
By Fidel Rahmati
September 7, 2024
Karen Decker, the chargé d’affaires at the U.S. Embassy for Afghanistan, has reported on his efforts to foster development, regional connectivity, and improve people-to-people relations during a discussion with Kazakh officials.
On Friday, September 6, Decker shared a message on X/Twitter stating that he had met and discussed the issue with Ali-Bek Bakayev, the deputy foreign minister of Kazakhstan, in Astana.
Decker expressed gratitude for the warm reception from Kazakh officials in Astana and emphasized his satisfaction with exchanging views on mutual security and economic and social interests in Afghanistan.
According to Decker, there is strong agreement on supporting the people of Afghanistan, and significant efforts are underway to develop regional connectivity and enhance people-to-people relations.
He further highlighted a strong consensus on supporting the Afghan people and reassured them that “Afghanistan will not be forgotten.”
Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs also stated the meeting between its deputy minister and the American delegation.
The ministry noted that discussions focused on regional security and actions to strengthen social stability through the revival of Afghanistan’s economy and improving the conditions of its people.
The statement mentioned that the Kazakh government is committed to providing humanitarian aid to Afghanistan regularly, promoting education development, and executing various projects in collaboration with international organizations.
Kazakh officials also indicated their intention to strengthen practical cooperation with Afghanistan, including trade, economic, energy, and transport-logistics relations.
In recent years, Kazakhstan has maintained close diplomatic and economic ties with the Taliban government and recently removed the Taliban from its list of banned groups.
The ongoing dialogue between the U.S. and Kazakhstan highlights a shared commitment to supporting Afghanistan’s stability and development. Both nations actively work to enhance regional connectivity and improve conditions for the Afghan people, reflecting a collaborative approach to addressing Afghanistan’s challenges.
This partnership underscores the importance of international cooperation in fostering peace and progress in the region.
Source:khaama.com
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https://www.khaama.com/karen-decker-emphasizes-support-for-afghanistans-people/
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Prof Yunus visits injured victims at Neurosciences hospital
Sep 7, 2024
Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus today visited the injured victims who were shot during the July-August student-led movements, at National Institute of Neurosciences and Hospital in Dhaka's Agargaon.
He enquired about the conditions of the victims who were injured critically by the security forces during the movement.
The hospital's Director, Kazi Deen Mohammad, said, "He (Prof Yunus) saw the four students who were being treated in the Intensive Care Unit of the hospital."
"All of them were hit by bullets in their heads. Their health conditions are improving," the director said.
Badrul Alam, the joint director of the institute, and senior physicians of the hospital were present.
At least eleven people, including eight students from universities and colleges, are being treated at the hospital.
Source:thedailystar.net
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https://www.thedailystar.net/news/bangladesh/crime-justice/news/attempted-late-night-robbery-gulshan-10-detained-trying-escape-3696521
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“No one will be allowed to damage Afghans’ unity”
September 7, 2024
Different tribes with different ethnicities live in Afghanistan, but it has kept its unity in the course of history. The country witnessed wide intervention from foreigners, mostly after their defeat and withdrawal from the country. They, in cooperation with their puppet regimes, invaded Afghanistan, killed or injured millions of innocents, destroyed their houses, and forced millions of others to leave their country. They tried to fuel tribal, ethnic and linguistic discords among different people of Afghanistan and wanted to create enmity among them. Their main goals, after their harsh defeat and shameful withdrawal, were plotting against Afghanistan, particularly, recently, against the ruling Islamic system. They wanted to bring democracy indoctrinated by Western and European powers, which is unacceptable by Afghanistan, with long Islamic faith and noble Afghan traditions. They wanted to question Afghanistan’s national identity, undermine national unity, and even our territorial integrity. But, fortunately, they failed. They failed to impose their vicious ideas and thoughts on our Muslim nation and achieve their goals. Addressing a ceremony, the acting Minister of Interior, Khalifa Sirajuddin Haqqani, also pointed out the issue and warned that no one can damage Afghans’ unity. At the inauguration ceremony of a mosque here in Kabul city, he frankly referred to this issue and said that no one would be allowed to damage the unity of the Afghans. Afghanistan is now unified after long years of war and conflict, and as the Islamic Emirate’s senior members and acting interior minister advised, ‘security officials’ to adopt good behavior and engagement with the people.’ This is clear that those who want to unfairly protest against the Islamic system, its members and its officials can never be called friends or supporters, but vice versa, a foe and enemy, and those who are working not for their country but for the aliens. The people of Afghanistan have their own ways, differing from what former so-called republican supporters had assumed. Their goal is other than what former national property looters have adopted. They are now working for their own country without considering ethical, linguistic, zonal, or tribal discrimination. But, this is the responsibility of the ruling system, in particular, the relevant organs, to work hard to have the people satisfied and interact with them in a friendly and honest manner. This can restore trust between the government and the people, and this can strengthen relations between the government and the people. This can help close coordination and cooperation and direct contact between the nation and their system and bridge gaps between them. Through this, the country’s security officials can investigate any suspicious issues, foil any plots, and arrest any suspected individuals planning to launch distractive activities or damage the unity of the brother nation.
Source:thekabultimes.com
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https://thekabultimes.com/no-one-will-be-allowed-to-damage-afghans-unity/
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Deputy Chief of Army Assesses Security Posts Along Durand Line
2024-09-07
KABUL(BNA): Deputy Chief of Army Haji Mali Khan Sediq conducted an inspection of security posts along the Durand Line in Khost province.
Accompanied by Deputy Commander of the 203rd Mansoori Army Corps, Mawlawi Rohani, and Border Brigade Commander, Mawlawi Zaker, the visit focused on assessing the preparedness and operational capabilities of border forces in the Zazai Maidan district.
The delegation reviewed current security measures aimed at ensuring stability in the border areas. While the Ministry of National Defense did not provide specific details about the inspection, the visit highlights the commitment of Afghan armed forces to maintain robust border security and effectively respond to potential threats.
The assessment is part of a broader initiative by senior officials from the Ministry of National Defense, who have consistently undertaken visits to various border posts, including those along the Durand Line.
Source:bakhtarnews.af
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https://www.bakhtarnews.af/en/deputy-chief-of-army-assesses-security-posts-along-durand-line/
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Iran seizes 151 kilograms of Narcotics near Afghanistan border
By Fidel Rahmati
September 7, 2024
Majid Shuja, the Commander of Border Guards in Khorasan Razavi, Iran, has announced that 151 kilograms and 450 grams of narcotics were discovered and seized in Taybad, near Afghanistan’s border.
According to a report by the Islamic Republic News Agency (IRNA) on Friday, September 6, the narcotics, which were of the crystal meth type, were hidden in 238 packages inside a cargo vehicle.
The Khorasan Razavi Border Guards Commander stated that the individual transporting these drugs has been arrested and referred to the judicial authorities of the Islamic Republic.
Earlier, Iranian officials had reported that since the beginning of this year, a total of 1,350 kilograms of narcotics have been seized along the Khorasan Razavi border, close to Afghanistan.
Brigadier General Kioumars Heydari, Commander of the Iranian Army Ground Forces, recently stated that artificial intelligence is being used to implement a “smart barrier” in the country’s border control efforts with Afghanistan.
It is noteworthy that Khorasan Razavi shares a 302-kilometre border with Afghanistan to the east, and numerous kilograms of narcotics have been seized from this region over the years.
These recent actions highlight Iran’s ongoing struggle with drug trafficking across its borders, particularly with Afghanistan. The deployment of advanced technologies like artificial intelligence reflects a strategic shift towards more effective border control measures.
Despite these efforts, the challenge of narcotics trafficking remains significant, emphasizing the need for continued vigilance and international cooperation in combating this issue.
Source:khaama.com
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https://www.khaama.com/iran-seizes-151-kilograms-of-narcotics-near-afghanistan-border/
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Mideast
Quds Authority: What is happening at Al-Aqsa Mosque portends bleak future
06 Sep 2024
OCCUPIED AL-QUDS September 06. 2024 (Saba) -The Quds Commission against Demolition and Displacement confirmed that what is happening in the blessed Al-Aqsa Mosque is an unprecedented process of attack and terrorism, and portends a bleak future.
The head of the Commission, Nasser Al-Hadmi, in media statements, on Friday, that the crimes of the Zionist enemy against "Al-Aqsa" are only an extension of the barbaric and criminal policy pursued by the occupation in the Gaza Strip and all Palestinian cities.
He said that the government of the Zionist enemy is working to shuffle the cards and blow up the situation through the continuation of the war on Gaza, and enable it to take full control of Al-Aqsa Mosque.
He added that extremist parties want to take advantage of this reality to further advance their goal of building their so-called temple in place of Al-Aqsa Mosque.
For his part, the preacher of the blessed Al-Aqsa Mosque, Sheikh Ikrima Sabri, issued a warning that the Jewish parties leading the occupation government are preparing to "attack the blessed mosque."
Sheikh Ikrima said that these parties feel that the time is right to implement their Judaization plans towards Al-Aqsa Mosque, warning that the increase in the widespread incursions of settlers into the mosque is nothing but a flagrant attack, challenge and provocation to the feelings of Muslims.
He stressed that the claim of extremist minister Ben Gvir and his questioning of the status quo in Al-Aqsa, pointing out that the aim of the raids is to impose control over the mosque.
The government of the Zionist enemy is preparing for the first time to finance settler incursions into the blessed Al-Aqsa Mosque, through the so-called "Ministry of Heritage".
Source:saba.ye
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https://www.saba.ye/en/news3368051.htm
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Hamas Losing Support in Gaza as Conflict Tests Islamic Movement
6 September 2024
Claudia De Martino
The Israeli operation “Sword of Iron,” commonly known as the Gaza War, has now entered its eleventh month. The conflict has claimed the lives of over 40,000 Palestinians and 1,600 Israelis, displaced one and a half million people within Gaza, and left 101 hostages still held in the Strip, which now lies in ruins. Meanwhile, international efforts to broker a ceasefire continue to stall.
The Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) claim to have eliminated 17,000 of the original 27,000 Hamas militants, including three of the group’s top four commanders – Ismail Haniyeh, Mohammed Deif, Salal al-Aruri – leaving only Yahya Sinwar, for the current leader, still at large. However, the Israeli government’s ultimate objectives remain unclear. It is uncertain whether Prime Minister Netanyahu’s formula of “total victory” means killing Sinwar to symbolically end the war, or if he intends to sustain a low-intensity conflict under the pretext of eliminating all Hamas militants (a few thousand are still active) and uncovering every tunnel. This strategy could render the Gaza Strip uninhabitable, forcing its population to flee. Despite Israeli generals’ claim officially stating that the military wing of Hamas has been decapitated, the conflict persists, with daily reports of Palestinian civilian casualties. Those who can afford to leave are escaping to neighboring countries; reports indicate that around 100,000 Gazans – who might become permanent refugees – crossed into Egypt through the Rafah crossing, where the unofficial “exit tax” is about 10,000 euros. Meanwhile, most of the population remains in the Strip, staying out of necessity rather than wartime patriotism.
Ten months after October 7th, trust between Arabs and Jews and support for the two-state solution have plummeted, with current support at about 32 percent, down from 53 percent in 2020. Despite the dire conditions in the Gaza Strip, Hamas continues to receive substantial political support. This anomaly has been a frequent topic in Israeli media, which are struggling to understand the strong support for Hamas among the civilian population.
By examining limited but reliable public opinion data from the Gaza Strip (Public Opinion Poll No. 92, Palestinian Center for Policy and Survey Research, July 2024), we can trace support for Hamas from August 2023 to July 2024, a pivotal year marked by war. It is well-documented that before the October 7th attack, Hamas had lost considerable support, though it still narrowly outpaced its rival, the nationalist party al-Fatah led by Mahmoud Abbas. This was largely due to the inertia and rampant corruption of al-Fatah, which leads the Palestinian National Authority.
In the last pre-war survey (PCPSR, July 2023), 50 percent of Gazans favored a “permanent truce” with Israel, resuming national unity talks among Palestinian factions, and reviving the PLO. These preferences were accompanied by urgent domestic demands, including lifting the economic blockade, improving essential public services like electricity, paying public administration salaries, and addressing mass unemployment – all issues for which Hamas appeared to have no solutions. This growing awareness among the public had eroded Gazans’ trust in the political and administrative capabilities of the Islamic Movement. Khalil Shikaki, director of the PCPSR points out that public opinion has consistently called for two main changes over the past decade (2014-2023): the return of the Palestinian National Authority to Gaza (supported by 70 percent of respondents) and the resolution of internal divisions among Palestinian factions (“inha al-inqisam”). These appeals, however, have repeatedly been unmet by Hamas, which has struggled to provide effective political solutions to both the economic crisis and the diplomatic deadlock.
Following Operation “Deluge of al-Aqsa,” Hamas’s popularity has surged, quadrupling in the West Bank and unexpectedly increasing in Gaza. This rise in support is attributed to the resumption of armed struggle (PCPSR survey, December 2023), which many Palestinians now view as the only way to combat the occupation, pressure Israel into negotiations, and revive international attention on the “Palestinian issue,” which seemed to have faded from the global stage Despite ten months of intense warfare, about 67 percent of Palestinians continue to view the October 7 attacks positively (though this is a 14-point drop in Gaza), supporting the political aims of the attacks, even if they do not fully endorse the extensive use of violence.
However, there are notable internal differences in opinion: Gazans (48 percent) are significantly less optimistic than their West Bank counterparts (79 percent) about Hamas’s ability to win the war, negotiate an end to the conflict, and remain in power. This discrepancy is understandable given Gazans’ direct experience with the war and its devastation, compared to the more ideological perspective of Palestinians in the West Bank, who primarily assess the situation based on its political impact. The structural issue for Hamas is that, now nearly stripped of its military wing, it has limited options for negotiating with Israel beyond exchanging remaining hostages and relying on the resilience of its leaders.
The political landscape has been further destabilized by the assassination of Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran during the inauguration of Iran’s president, Pezeshkian. Haniyeh, a representative of the pragmatic wing of Hamas, was killed shortly before Yahya Sinwar was elected as his successor. Sinwar, who has led the military wing of the al-Qassam Brigades since 2015 and masterminded the October 7 attack, represents the internal leadership of Hamas and a shift towards more hardline positions.
Sinwar’s appointment signifies Hamas’s complete lack of faith in pursuing a permanent solution with Israel, favoring instead a temporary truce. While Haniyeh was actively engaged in national reconciliation among the 14 Palestinian factions emerging from the Beijing agreement and negotiating a ceasefire with Israel mediated by Qatar and Egypt, Sinwar rejects the possibility of coexistence with Israel and national reconciliation with al-Fatah. The new leader seems more interested in negotiating a temporary ceasefire without outlining any post-war scenario, minimizing relations with Egypt and Qatar.
Currently, Sinwar’s primary objective seems to be expanding the struggle to Palestinian refugee camps in Lebanon, such as Ain al-Hilweh, where Hamas is gaining influence, and to Tulkarem and Jenin in the West Bank, where Hamas is supplying weapons, to open new fronts if Hezbollah reduces pressure on Israel. It is no coincidence that the IDF is now conducting continuous military operations in the West Bank, often employing drastic measures similar to those used in Gaza, including large-scale demolitions of buildings and infrastructure. As U.S. political scientist Norman Finkelstein argued on al-Jazeera, Sinwar aims to adopt the same “language of force” against Israelis that Tel Aviv is largely using against Palestinians.
The civilian population of Gaza, suffering under constant bombings and Israeli military incursions, is now also facing a polio outbreak. The extent of dissent remains difficult to gauge due to Israel’s ban on foreign journalists entering the Strip. However, a recent BBC report highlighted growing frustration with Hamas, with testimonies from residents accusing the Islamic Movement of giving Israel a pretext for the total destruction of Gaza while failing to provide any relief measures – such as air raid shelters, food supplies, medicine, or fuel to protect civilians.
In particular, many see the fact that Hamas’s leadership remains hidden in tunnels inaccessible to civilians as a stark symbol of the deep divide between the leadership and the general population. Frustration is also mounting against Hamas’s external leadership, which, from the comfort of their luxury refuges in Qatar and Turkey, appears to engage in ceasefire negotiations, seemingly indifferent to the suffering on the ground. Meanwhile, as the war drags on and Hamas’s leadership remains confined to tunnels, chaos reigns in Gaza. Armed gangs thrive amid widespread misery, attacking humanitarian convoys and looting abandoned homes, with some collaboration from the IDF, which selectively targets the remaining police and law enforcement personnel.
This collective frustration could have been harnessed by the Palestinian Authority, offering a desperate and frustrated population – now largely supporting armed struggle – a viable political alternative. However, lacking electoral support and a clear platform, the technical government led by Mustafa, inaugurated with little fanfare last March, seems incapable of taking a leadership role. President Abbas’s statements at the recent Arab League summit in Manama, where he placed full blame on Hamas for the division between Gaza and Ramallah to Israel’s advantage, have further alienated Palestinian public opinion.
Only Marwan Barghouti, the presidential candidate who has consistently led in polls for years, remains a unifying figure. Despite being imprisoned for over 22 years in Israel’s Megiddo prison, Barghouti holds a 22-point lead over current Hamas leader Sinwar (29 percent vs. 7 percent) and could fill the political vacuum by offering a national project capable of bridging the divide between Hamas and al-Fatah – something he demonstrated by drafting the 2016 Prisoners’ Document.
As the IDF advances through Gaza’s tunnel networks, Hamas finds itself in a dead end as evidenced by its recent order to execute hostages near release by Israel. Yet, an agreement with Israel on a prisoner exchange, similar to the 2011 Shalit deal, releasing Marwan Barghouti might still be a trump card Sinwar could play to regain popular support after 10 months of war.
Source:resetdoc.org
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https://www.resetdoc.org/story/hamas-losing-support-gaza-conflict-tests-islamic-movement/
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Israel/Palestine War: Islamic organisation seeks enforcement of ICJ judgement
September 6, 2024
by Segun Showunmi, Ibadan
An Islamic organisation, Aqsah Nigeria, has charged world leaders, particularly government in Africa to enforcement the July 19, 2024 ruling of the International Court of Justice, (ICJ), which declared Israel’s war on Palestinian territories as unlawful.
The organisation also called for mass mobilisation of people and continuous public awareness to uphold the judgement with a view to end the ongoing killings and displacement of Palestinians.
Speaking in Ibadan at a World Press Conference in collaboration with the International Institute for Human Heritage and other Muslim Organisations, the Director, Aqsah Nigeria, Barr. Rasheed Atta, said annexation of Palestine’s territories and discriminatory policies against the people were violations of International law, which should be stopped.
He stated that the judgement by the President of ICJ, Justice Nawaf Salaam was a clarion call for all global leaders and superpowers to rise against humiliation and oppression of the Palestinians.
According to him, “The world must know the ICJ and its meaning. People who have struggled with the Palestinian people and those just join have a duty to mobilise within their powers and ensure the pronouncement is not another empty judgement”.
Atta challenged United Nations not to turn blind eyes to the ruling, but ensure justice for the oppressed, saying injustice to one is an injustice to all; and justice for humanity is sacrosanct irrespective of race, colour, religion or ideology.
Chairman, Muslim Community of Oyo State, Alhaji Kunle Sanni, who stressed the importance of understanding the world politics on Israeli onslaught in Gaza strip and other Palestinian territories, pointed out that the war is not between Muslims and Christians, as Zionist is destroying Churches and Mosques.
He said: “We are in support of the Palestinians on humanitarian grounds; we are concerned about the right to live. It is a coincidence that majority of Palestinians are Muslims, Sanni noted”.
Sanni urged the UN to stop a few countries from superintending the whole world, commending the 35 countries which cut ties with Israel for war crimes in Palestine.
The former Minister of Communications, who is also the Chairman and Pro-chancellor, David Umahi, Federal University of Health Sciences, Uburu, Ebonyi State, Alhaji Adebayo Shittu, said Palestine deserves to be a sovereign State, calling on governments to emulate South Africa in the support for Palestinian emancipation.
Shittu emphasized that the two-state solution by the international community should not circumvented or abrogated by Israeli occupation.
He solicited prayers and succour for the Palestinians, calling on United States to apply the same interventionist role in the Israeli occupation of Palestine as the Russian annexation of Ukraine attracted sympathy and support.
Source:thenationonlineng.net
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https://thenationonlineng.net/israel-palestine-war-islamic-organisation-seeks-enforcement-of-icj-judgement/#google_vignette
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Thirteen Palestinians killed in Israeli strikes on Gaza, WAFA says
REUTERS
September 07, 2024
RAMALLAH: At least 13 Palestinians were killed and 15 wounded in Israeli strikes on a school sheltering refugees and a residential building in Gaza, the Palestinian Authority’s official news agency WAFA reported early on Saturday.
At least eight of the dead were in refugee tents at Halima Al-Sa’diyya School in Jabalia in northern Gaza, WAFA said.
The Israeli army said in a statement it had “conducted a precise strike on terrorists who were operating inside a Hamas command and control center... embedded inside a compound that previously served as the ‘Halima Al-Sa’diyya’ School in the northern Gaza Strip.”
In a separate incident, five Palestinians were killed in an Israeli strike on a residential building in the Nuseirat camp in central Gaza.
The latest bloodshed in the decades-old Israeli-Palestinian conflict was triggered Oct. 7 last year when Hamas-led militants stormed into Israel, killing 1,200 and taking about 250 hostages, according to Israeli tallies.
Israel’s subsequent assault on the Hamas-governed enclave has since killed over 40,800 Palestinians, according to the local health ministry, while displacing nearly the entire population of 2.3 million, causing a hunger crisis and leading to genocide allegations at the World Court that Israel denies.
According to the United Nations, at least 1.9 million people across the Gaza Strip are internally displaced, including some uprooted more than 10 times.
Source:arabnews.com
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https://www.arabnews.com/node/2570400/middle-east
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US-Iraq deal would see hundreds of troops withdraw in first year, sources say
September 06, 2024
BAGHDAD: The United States and Iraq have reached an understanding on plans for the withdrawal of US-led coalition forces from Iraq, according to multiple sources familiar with the matter.
The plan, which has been broadly agreed but requires a final go-ahead from both capitals and an announcement date, would see hundreds of troops leave by September 2025, with the remainder departing by the end of 2026, the sources said.
“We have an agreement, its now just a question of when to announce it,” a senior US official said.
The US and Iraq are also seeking to establish a new advisory relationship that could see some US troops remain in Iraq after the drawdown.
An official announcement was initially scheduled for weeks ago but was postponed due to regional escalation related to Israel’s war in Gaza and to iron out some remaining details, the sources said.
The sources include five US officials, two officials from other coalition nations, and three Iraqi officials, all speaking on condition of anonymity as they were not authorized to discuss the matter publicly.
Several sources said the deal could be announced this month.
Farhad Alaaldin, foreign affairs adviser to the Iraqi prime minister, said technical talks with Washington on the coalition drawdown had concluded.
“We are now on the brink of transitioning the relationship between Iraq and members of the international coalition to a new level, focusing on bilateral relations in military, security, economic, and cultural areas,” he said.
He did not comment on details of the plan and the US-led coalition did not respond to emailed questions.
The agreement follows more than six months of talks between Baghdad and Washington, initiated by Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani in January amid attacks by Iran-backed Iraqi armed groups on US forces stationed at Iraqi bases.
The rocket and drone attacks have killed three American troops and wounded dozens more, resulting in several rounds of deadly US retaliation that threatened government efforts to stabilize Iraq after decades of conflict.
The US has approximately 2,500 troops in Iraq and 900 in neighboring Syria as part of the coalition formed in 2014 to combat Daesh as it rampaged through the two countries.
The group once held roughly a third of Iraq and Syria but was territorially defeated in Iraq at the end of 2017 and in Syria in 2019. Iraq had demonstrated its ability to handle any remaining threat, Alaaldin said.
The US initially invaded Iraq in 2003, toppling dictator Saddam Hussein before withdrawing in 2011, but returned in 2014 at the head of the coalition to fight Daesh.
Other nations, including Germany, France, Spain, and Italy, also contribute hundreds of troops to the coalition.
Under the plan, all coalition forces would leave the Ain Al-Asad air base in western Anbar province and significantly reduce their presence in Baghdad by September 2025.
US and other coalition troops are expected to remain in Irbil, in the semi-autonomous northern Kurdistan region, for approximately one additional year, until around the end of 2026, to facilitate ongoing operations against Daesh in Syria.
Exact details of troop movements are being kept secret due to their military sensitivity.
The drawdown would mark a notable shift in Washington’s military posture in the region.
While primarily focused on countering Daesh, US officials acknowledge their presence also serves as a strategic position against Iranian influence.
This position has grown more important as Israel and Iran escalate their regional confrontation, with US forces in Iraq shooting down rockets and drones fired toward Israel in recent months, according to US officials.
Prime Minister Al-Sudani has stated that, while he appreciates their help, US troops have become a magnet for instability, frequently targeted and responding with strikes often not coordinated with the Iraqi government.
The agreement, when announced, would likely present a political win for Al-Sudani as he balances Iraq’s position as an ally of both Washington and Tehran. The first phase of the drawdown would end one month before Iraqi parliamentary polls set for October 2025.
For the US, the two-year time frame provides “breathing room,” allowing for potential adjustments if the regional situation changes, a US official said.
The State Department and US Embassy in Baghdad did not respond to requests for comment.
Source:arabnews.com
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https://www.arabnews.com/node/2570351/middle-east
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Displaced Gazans face dire conditions in hospital courtyard
September 06, 2024
GAZA: Iqbal Al-Zeidi has been going out to retrieve her family’s belongings from the rubble of their home ever since it was destroyed by an Israeli airstrike on Gaza City almost a year ago.
Braving more bombardments, she said she has traveled up to the wrecked site, collected bedsheets, clothes and blankets, and brought them back to their shelter — a torn tent in the courtyard of Al-Aqsa Hospital about 10 miles (16km) south in the city of Deir Al-Balah.
Other tents clustered nearby give little relief from the sweltering heat, and none from the attacks that have followed them to their new home.
On Thursday, four people died when an Israeli airstrike hit tents where other displaced families were living close to the same hospital, local medics said.
She is among the millions of Gazans who have been moving up and down the besieged and overcrowded enclave, escaping an attack in one location, only to face more attacks in their new place of refuge.
“Our house was a 120-square-meter apartment. Now we live in a tent just 4 meters by 4 meters,” Al-Zeidi said, visibly worn out by the heat.
“We left our house under bombing, with nothing — no papers, no certificates, nothing. We are completely erased.”
WORSENING HEALTH CONDITIONS
Conditions are dire across the territory with severe shortages of water, medicine and fuel. Few hospitals are functional.
The collapse in Gaza’s health system has complicated a host of other unfolding disasters, from a hunger crisis to spreading disease. It has left those with chronic conditions unable to access basic care.
“My granddaughter has a heart condition, and we can’t get treatment. I am sick myself, with high blood pressure and diabetes, but I can’t find medication,” Al-Zeidi told Reuters.
The conflict erupted on Oct. 7, when Palestinian militant group Hamas attacked southern Israel, killing 1,200 people and taking more than 250 people hostage, according to Israeli tallies.
Israel responded with a military campaign that has killed more than 40,861 Palestinians, according to Gaza health authorities.
Israel says it goes to great lengths to avoid civilian casualties and has accused Hamas of using human shields and operating from places like schools and hospitals. The group denies the allegations and alleges that Israel bombs Palestinians indiscriminately.
Near Al-Aqsa Hospital, Al-Zeidi’s eight-month-old grandson sat inside the tent while other family members looked for shade nearby.
“Another month will pass, and we will have been here for a year. We run after food, water, all amidst diseases,” she said.
Source:arabnews.com
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https://www.arabnews.com/node/2570337/middle-east
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Muslim World League condemns Israeli bombing of Gaza's Al-Zaytoun
06 Sep 2024
Makkah: The Muslim World League (MWL) has expressed its strongest condemnation of the bombardment carried out by the Israeli occupation forces in the Al-Zaytoun neighborhood, located in southern Gaza.
This brutal operation led to the destruction of entire residential blocks within the neighborhood, resulting in numerous fatalities, including two children, with others still missing beneath the rubble, said MWL in a statement today.
The MWL General Secretariat denounced these ongoing horrific crimes against civilians and civilian infrastructure, which are in direct violation of humanitarian and legal standards, the statement said.
MWL underscored the urgent necessity for the international community to address this horrific humanitarian crisis, exacerbated by the Israeli government's war tactics, and to cease the systematic violations against innocent civilians.
Source:thepeninsulaqatar.com
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https://thepeninsulaqatar.com/article/06/09/2024/muslim-world-league-condemns-israeli-bombing-of-southern-gazas-al-zaytoun
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North America
CAIR to Release Follow-up Election Survey Results on Muslim Voters in Key Battleground States
September 6, 2024
Report to feature in-depth analysis of Muslim presidential voter preferences by gender, age, race, party affiliation, ideology, voting history, and more. Results to be released on Facebook on Monday, September 6 at 10 a.m. (ET)
On Monday, September 9 at 10 AM(ET), the Council on American Islamic Relations (CAIR), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, plans to hold an online news conference to release the full results of its follow-up report diving deeper into the results of its August 25-27 presidential election survey of American Muslim voters.
SEE: CAIR 2024 Election Survey of American Muslims Shows Jill Stein & Kamala Harris Tied at 29%, Gaza Genocide a Top Concern
The follow-up report will feature survey results showing which presidential candidates Muslim voters support more in the key battleground Arizona, Georgia, Nevada, Michigan, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin, having the potential to impact the outcome of the November election.
Watch Monday, Sept. 9th at 10 AM ET the Livestream on Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/CAIRNational/live/
[NOTE: Reporters may request an advance embargoed copy of the survey by emailing CAIR’s Government Affairs Director, Robert S. McCaw, at rmccaw@cair.com with the subject line: “New CAIR Election Survey.” The embargo ends at 10:30 am on Sept. 9.]
Conducted in partnership with Molitical Consulting LLC, the survey was conducted through an SMS text message sent to a proprietary, randomized national list of 40,000 registered Muslim voters from all 50 states, Puerto Rico, and military members serving overseas. The survey was conducted from Sunday, August 25, to Tuesday, August 27, and received 1,478 responses, 1,155 of which were verified and matched to the national voter file. This follow-up report delves into the preferences and trends among Muslim voters following Harris’s entry onto the Democratic ticket. The findings demonstrate significant demographic splits and offer key insights into how Muslim voters are shaping up ahead of the November election.
As the 2024 national general election approaches, America’s estimated 2.5 million Muslim voters are positioned to once again play a crucial role in shaping the political landscape. With their significant presence in key swing states, Muslim voters have the potential to influence the outcomes of not only the presidential race but also numerous congressional, state, and local elections. This report aims to provide a comprehensive overview of Muslim voters’ political inclinations and voting intentions in this pivotal election year.
NOTE: As a 501(c)3 nonprofit, CAIR does not endorse or oppose candidates for office, and makes no claims as to the favorability of one candidate being elected over another.
The Council on American-Islamic Relations is America’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization. Its mission is to enhance the understanding of Islam, protect civil rights, promote justice, and empower American Muslims.
Source:cair.com
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https://www.cair.com/press_releases/cair-to-release-follow-up-election-survey-results-on-muslim-voters-in-key-battleground-states/
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CAIR Urges Muslim Community to Participate in National Muslim Voter Registration Day
September 6, 2024
The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, is calling on all eligible Muslim voters to participate in today’s National Muslim Voter Registration Day (#NMVRD2024) today. This coordinated national effort aims to register thousands of Muslim voters and strengthen our collective civic power.
In a statement MPower Change, Organizing Director Ishraq Ali said,
“MyMuslimVote has always been about long term power for our communities. In the midst of the genocide in Gaza tactics like voting uncommitted revealed our potential to pressure our elected officials and respond to our community, but we need to keep building on that momentum by registering and getting out the vote. National Muslim Voter Registration Day is one way for our people to build our power this election season.”
In a statement, CAIR Government Affairs Coordinator ShafiquilMuhshna said,
“This election is nothing short of a battle for our future. As Muslims, we are witnessing an unfolding genocide in Gaza, rising Islamophobia, and critical decisions on immigration, education, and civil rights. The stakes have never been higher. If we don’t show up to vote, we allow others to decide our fate. National Muslim Voter Registration Day is our moment to take action, to ensure that our voices are not silenced in this pivotal year. Our votes are not just a right—they are a shield for our community’s values and future.”
BACKGROUND:
Each year is an opportunity for Muslims to build political power and vote for officials and policies that align with our values. This year is especially critical, as we face a historic election that will determine the future of the Presidency, Congress, and legislation that touches on key issues such as foreign policy, education, immigration, and the economy. In addition, our community is deeply affected by the ongoing genocide in Gaza, making it more important than ever for us to be engaged and build our civic power.
Unfortunately, many eligible Muslim voters are unaware of where to vote, when to vote, or how to ensure they are registered. That’s why CAIR is proud to support #NMVRD2024, part of the #MyMuslimVote campaign—a national non-partisan initiative focused on increasing voter registration, engagement, and mobilization efforts in U.S. Muslim communities.
Goals for #NMVRD2024 include:
Registering at least 100 voters at local masjids, community centers, and schools.
Activating volunteers to support civic engagement and encourage Muslim communities to exercise their voting power.
Creating excitement and visibility around Muslim civic engagement efforts across the U.S.
We encourage community members to take advantage of Jumu’ah on Friday, September 6, to register voters after prayers. This is a unique opportunity to involve your local masjid or Islamic center in this important cause.
CAIR urges community members to host voter registration drives where Muslims naturally gather, such as Islamic centers, schools, and community events. You can access resources and swag such as t-shirts, stickers, and voter pledge cards by partnering with MPower Change. To ensure compliance, be sure to follow state voter registration rules by providing paper forms or offering online registration options at www.mymuslimvote.org.
To further engage your community, ask participants to fill out #MyMuslimVote pledge cards, and consider encouraging mosque leaders to include points on civic engagement in their Jumu’ah khutba.
Let’s continue building our civic power by ensuring every eligible Muslim is registered to vote and ready to make a difference in this critical election year.
Source:cair.com
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https://www.cair.com/press_releases/cair-urges-muslim-community-to-participate-in-national-muslim-voter-registration-day/
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Former Vice-President Dick Cheney to vote for Kamala Harris
September 7, 2024
Former US Vice-President and lifelong Republican Dick Cheney has confirmed he will vote for the Democrats' Kamala Harris in November's presidential election.
Mr Cheney, seen as an influential figure during the presidency of George W Bush, issued a statement saying there had "never been an individual who is a greater threat to our republic than Donald Trump", the current Republican candidate.
His daughter, former Republican lawmaker Liz Cheney, had told an audience in Texas earlier that her father planned to back the Democratic nominee.
“He [Trump] tried to steal the last election using lies and violence to keep himself in power after the voters had rejected him," said Mr Cheney. "He can never be trusted with power again."
“As citizens, we each have a duty to put country above partisanship to defend our constitution," he added. "That is why I will be casting my vote for Vice-President Kamala Harris.”
Mr Cheney's remarks were welcomed by the Harris camp.
“The vice-president is proud to have the support of Vice-President Cheney, and deeply respects his courage to put country over party,” said campaign chair Jen O’Malley Dillon.
Mr Cheney joins a growing list of Republicans who have expressed concern about the candidacy of Donald Trump.
His daughter, Liz Cheney, has already given her backing to Vice-President Harris.
She served on the House select committee investigating the 6 January Capitol riots, and was one of 10 Republicans to vote to impeach former President Trump after the incident.
Ms Cheney lost her seat in Congress in 2022 to a Trump-backed candidate.
Taking to social media following Mr Cheney's statement, Trump called the former vice-president an "irrelevant RINO" - an acronym which stands for "Republican in name only".
He also described Mr Cheney as the "King of Endless, Nonsensical Wars" - alluding to his role in the Iraq War.
Source:bbc.com/
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https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cz07zlr58vvo
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Trump's criminal sentencing delayed until after election
September 7, 2024
Donald Trump's sentencing in his Manhattan hush money criminal trial has been postponed until after the November election.
Judge Juan Merchan on Friday delayed the sentencing to 26 November, citing "the unique time frame this matter currently finds itself in" among his reasons.
Lawyers for Trump, the Republican presidential candidate, have used several legal manoeuvres to delay the sentencing, which had been scheduled for 18 September.
A New York jury in May convicted Trump on 34 felony counts of falsifying business records, the first time a sitting or former president has been convicted of a crime.
In his decision, Judge Merchan wrote that the case demands "a sentencing hearing that is entirely focused on the verdict of the jury".
"Their verdict must be respected and addressed in a manner that is not diluted by the enormity of the upcoming presidential election," he said, setting sentencing to exactly three weeks after the 5 November election.
He said the delay was necessary "to avoid any appearance - however unwarranted - that the proceeding has been affected by or seeks to affect the approaching presidential election in which the Defendant is a candidate”.
“The Court is a fair, impartial and apolitical institution,” the judge continued.
Trump could face a sentence of up to four years in prison, but Judge Merchan also has the discretion to impose a punishment of a fine, probation or a shorter jail term.
Prosecutors in the case accused the former president of concealing a payment to buy the silence of Stormy Daniels, a former adult-film star, in the final days of his 2016 election campaign.
Ms Daniels testified that she and Trump had sex, and that she accepted $130,000 (£99,000) from his former lawyer before the 2016 election in exchange to keep quiet about the encounter.
Prosecutors argued that, by approving a scheme to disguise the money as legal expenses, Trump broke election law.
Trump's original sentencing date was in July. His lawyers delayed that after a US Supreme Court ruling that granted presidents some immunity from criminal prosecution for "official acts".
Judge Merchan granted a delay so that the parties could prepare arguments on the effects of the Supreme Court ruling on his case.
A decision on the implications will come on 12 November.
Judge Merchan has already dismissed some arguments made by Trump's lawyers to delay as "unsubstantiated grievances... that do not merit this Court's attention".
But he wrote that sentencing hearings are routinely delayed in other cases for reasons like personal circumstances or scheduling conflicts.
"Given the unique facts and circumstances of this case, there is no reason why this Defendant should be treated differently than any other," Judge Merchan said.
He added that his decision to delay "should dispel any suggestion" that the court would have made a decision that would be seen in support of "any political party or any candidate for any office".
Trump has maintained that he did nothing wrong. He told Fox News after the ruling that the "case should be dead".
On his social media platform Truth Social, the former president re-iterated his claims of innocence, dismissing the case as a "witch hunt" and a "political attack".
"This case should be rightfully terminated, as we prepare for the Most Important Election in the History of our Country," he wrote.
A spokesperson for Alvin Bragg, the Manhattan district attorney whose office brought the charges, said his team was "ready for sentencing on the new date set by the court".
If Trump returns to the White House he will have the power to pardon himself of any federal crimes he may have been convicted of.
However, the case in New York - as well as the election interference case in Georgia - are state charges, and presidents do not have the ability to pardon those convicted in state courts.
Source:bbc.com
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c5ypr3vd7x9o
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Arab World
Saudi Content Creator, Ibrahim Al-Dosaimani, Shares Health Tips To Thousands
RAHAF JAMBI
September 06, 2024
RIYADH: Saudi nutrition and culinary content creator Ibrahim Al-Dosaimani’s health transformation has inspired 227,000 of his followers on Instagram who struggle with being underweight.
Known online as Heem Fit, Al-Dosaimani transformed his life through the power of weight training and healthy cooking.
“All of my recipes are healthy and without deprivation. The basic idea of all my recipes is to maintain the beautiful flavor and increase the nutritional value, and my followers love them,” he told Arab News.
The 27-year-old computer engineer began with a struggle against extreme thinness, leading him to discover not only the importance of nutrition, but also his love for creating delicious meals.
“I never expected that one day I would practice weight training and be in the field of cooking,” he added.
His transformation started when he faced a significant challenge: Despite trying a range of methods, he struggled to gain weight. Growing up, Al-Dosaimani often cooked alongside his mother, who encouraged him to eat more. “I would tell her I wanted to gain weight, and she’d say I had to eat a lot, but I didn’t quite understand what that meant.”
In 2017, he took the plunge into weight training while gradually honing his culinary skills. “I found joy in cooking and could spend hours in the kitchen without noticing the time fly by.”
The combination of exercise and cooking paid off; he began to gain weight, although it fluctuated over time. Realizing that he was not eating as much as he thought, Al-Dosaimani delved into the world of nutrition.
“I started learning about calories, macronutrients and how to meet my dietary needs effectively,” he said.
By early 2021, Al-Dosaimani decided to share his journey and knowledge with a broader audience. “I wanted to change people’s perceptions of healthy eating.”
He started creating content and, to date, has filmed more than 250 recipes across various social media platforms, reaching thousands of viewers. His primary goal is to raise awareness about healthy eating and reshape how people perceive it.
“At first, appearing in front of the camera was difficult for me, and I did not like to show my face. Of course, the editing and the way of filming were a challenge, but with time, I was able to develop myself and present the recipe better, and I showed my face,” Al-Dosaimani added.
Throughout his journey, he has faced several challenges, including a lack of nutritional knowledge that delayed his progress. “Not being fully versed in nutrition led to delayed results,” he said. He also encountered misconceptions about healthy eating resulting in bland food that lacks flavor, which he combats by creating delicious recipes that mirror fast food favorites. “I love making burger recipes because I’m a burger lover,” he added.
For those looking to gain weight and be healthy, Al-Dosaimani highlights the importance of a structured meal plan alongside a resistance training regimen to build muscle mass.
“It’s essential to eat high-calorie, low-volume foods that provide the necessary nutrients without overwhelming you,” he said.
Understanding calories and macronutrients has been crucial in Al-Dosaimani’s journey. “Once you grasp these concepts, you can enjoy your food without feeling deprived or restricted. That mindset shift is vital,” he said.
The most rewarding aspect of his work is the positive feedback he receives from those who have benefited from his recipes. “I love hearing from people who have changed their bodies because of my recipes,” he added.
Looking ahead, Al-Dosaimani is excited about an upcoming project: “I’m working on an e-book dedicated to healthy recipes, which will also have educational content to enhance nutrition awareness.”
Reflecting on his transformation, Al-Dosaimani said he would advise his younger self to seek out the right methods to gain weight and to deepen his understanding of nutrition. “Learn the right way to gain weight and increase your knowledge about nutrition,” he said.
His passion for cooking and helping others continues to drive him as he evolves in his fitness and culinary pursuits.
“Through my journey, I not only changed my life, but also hope to inspire countless others to embrace healthy eating and a balanced lifestyle.”
Source:arabnews.com
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Saudi Arabia to host Chinese contemporary art exhibition
AFSHAN AZIZ
September 06, 2024
JEDDAH: The Saudi Museums Commission is set to launch “The Writings of Today Are a Promise for Tomorrow,” an exhibition of Chinese contemporary art in Saudi Arabia, at the Saudi Arabian Museum of Contemporary Art at Jax in Diriyah.
The exhibition will feature works from more than 30 Chinese artists, showcasing over 50 artworks that delve into the transformative nature of contemporary society.
According to a statement, the event will explore a wide range of cultural and societal themes, emphasizing the significance of writing in both Arabic and Chinese traditions. It also addresses universal concepts such as nostalgia, memory and modernism. One of the key themes is the role of the garden in Chinese culture, alongside an exploration of commodification and capital in contemporary Chinese society.
Set to run from the end of September to January, the exhibition will display a curated selection of artworks, some loaned from private collections and others created specifically for the exhibition in Saudi Arabia. Visitors can engage with large sculptures, immersive installations, videos, paintings and photography, all of which offer a fresh perspective on Chinese contemporary art.
Ibrahim Al-Sanousi, acting CEO of the Museums Commission, said: “Visitors will encounter a wide range of works across different mediums, presenting a non-traditional view of Chinese contemporary art. The exhibition highlights universal themes of memory, nostalgia, progress and modernism, while exploring the balance between individual and collective identity.
“It presents works from an important period in Chinese contemporary art, from the late 90s to early 2000s, along with several site-specific pieces. The curatorial narrative draws on the shared cultural values of calligraphy and gardens in both Arab and Chinese traditions, with the Literati garden as a central theme, inviting visitors to slow down and fully immerse themselves in the experience,” he told Arab News.
SAMOCA @ Jax, inaugurated in 2023, is part of Saudi Arabia’s cultural program under Vision 2030. It serves as a dynamic platform for both local and international artists to collaborate, exchange ideas and contribute to the evolving landscape of contemporary art in the Kingdom.
Tickets for the exhibition will soon be available on the Discover Culture platform.
Source:arabnews.com
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Saudi Tourism Ministry wins communication award at SGCA 2024
September 06, 2024
RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Tourism, represented by the General Administration of Institutional Communication, won the Sharjah Government Communication Award 2024 for the best integrated communication system at the 13th International Government Communication Forum, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
The award recognises the ministry’s media campaign, which coincided with Saudi Arabia’s achievement of welcoming more than 100 million domestic and foreign tourists in 2023, as certified by the United Nations World Tourism Organization and the World Travel and Tourism Council.
The award in its 11th year had the most significant number of participants since its inception, with more than 3,800 Arab and international submissions from 44 countries, an increase of 230 percent compared with the previous year.
There were 1,129 files accepted and the shortlist featured 46 nominees.
The media campaign launched by the Ministry of Tourism contributed to enhancing international interest in the Kingdom as a global tourist destination.
It highlighted its cultural significance, geographical diversity and natural beauty and confirmed its readiness to receive tourists in record numbers.
The campaign results position the Kingdom as being open to the world and a primary destination for tourists and investors.
Majed Al-Hamdan, director-general of institutional communication at the Ministry of Tourism, said: “This campaign is not just about announcing numbers. It aims to tell stories about our culture and heritage and show that we are ready to welcome the world. With millions of tourists visiting, this award is a testament to our growth and remarkable progress in the tourism sector and our emergence as a key player on the global stage.”
He pointed out that the support of Tourism Minister Ahmed Al-Khateeb significantly influenced the implementation of a comprehensive communication campaign that highlighted Saudi capabilities in mobilizing major local, regional and international media to convey that the Kingdom welcomes tourists from all over the world.
The media campaign achieved great success with a total reach of nearly 80 million across social media platforms, in addition to high views and interactions and widespread circulation in international media.
It also succeeded in highlighting the economic and social returns generated by tourism, such as creating jobs, cultural exchange and economic diversification as envisioned in Vision 2030.
SGCA recognizes innovative and effective communication strategies that promote transparency, trust and positive societal outcomes.
Source:arabnews.com
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Saudi industry minister meets heads of Chinese lithium, copper mining firms
September 06, 2024
RIYADH: Saudi Industry and Mineral Resources Minister Bandar Alkhorayef on Friday met representatives of Chinese mining companies to discuss cooperation and investment opportunities in the mining industry.
The talks centered on the processing and production of lithium, which is used in electric vehicle batteries, and the processing and refining of copper.
Alkhorayef spoke to the chairman of General Lithium Corp. about the Kingdom’s goals in the electric vehicle industry and discussed investment opportunities, cooperation and knowledge sharing.
The meeting was also attended by Industry and Mineral Resources Assistant Minister for Planning and Development Abdullah Al-Ahmari, National Industrial Development Center CEO Saleh Al-Sulami and Saudi Authority for Industrial Cities and Technology Zones CEO Majed Rafed Al-Argoubi.
Source:arabnews.com
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Rare Griffon vulture breeding colonies discovered at Prince Mohammed bin Salman Royal Reserve
September 06, 2024
RIYADH: Three rare breeding colonies of the Eurasian Griffon vultures have been discovered at the Prince Mohammed bin Salman Royal Reserve, the royal reserve’s authority has announced.
The Griffon vultures, listed as Endangered in the Middle East, and other vulture species globally are facing a serious conservation crisis and the discovery was welcomed in time for the World Vulture Awareness Day being celebrated during first Saturday in September each year.
“The endangered Griffon vulture is an uncommon breeding resident in Saudi Arabia. Using drones four active nests with adults incubating eggs and raising chicks have been discovered by Reserve scientists and are being closely monitored,” Andrew Zaloumis, CEO at Prince Mohammed bin Salman Royal Reserve Development Authority, said in a statement.
“Griffon vultures are a significant indicator of the Reserve’s improving environmental health. These breeding colonies are a testament to the Reserve’s conservation work and role as a sanctuary for Saudi Arabia’s natural heritage.”
The 24,500-square kilometer Prince Mohammed bin Salman Royal Reserve stretches from the lava plains of the Harrats to the deep Red Sea in the west, and is home to 15 distinct ecosystems and over 50 percent of the Kingdom’s species, making it one of the most biodiverse protected areas in the Middle East.
Griffon vulture individuals have previously been recorded roosting throughout the Reserve’s mountain ranges. However, this was the first time breeding colonies with nesting sites have been confirmed.
Four active nests in three separate breeding colonies with adults incubating eggs and chicks approximately two – three months of age were discovered in the sand-stone mountains of the Jabel Qaraqir section of the Reserve. A further 37 potential nesting sites are also being monitored, the authority said.
In 2023, two Griffon vultures were tagged and released into the Reserve in a joint initiative with the National Centre for Wildlife.
Source:arabnews.com
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Al-Nassr star Ronaldo calls Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea his ‘second home’, describes AlUla as ‘spiritual’
September 07, 2024
DUBAI: Portuguese football star Ronaldo, who plays for Al-Nassr, said that it was easy for him and his family adapting to Saudi Arabia after signing with the Saudi football club to a two-and-a-half-year contract.
“To be honest, I am really happy to be there [Saudi Arabia],” Ronaldo said in an interview former Portuguese footballer, Rio Ferdinand.
“For me the adaptation was easy, and I really love it to be there,” he said. “It is a lovely country; I love to be there; my family loves to be there.”
Ronaldo was one of the first top-name recruits to the Saudi Pro League at the start of 2023, which paved the way for entry of other big-league players from Europe.
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner began his club career with Portuguese side Sporting CP before joining Manchester United in 2003. Ronaldo moved to Spanish La Liga giants Real Madrid after six seasons at United. He then played for two years with Juventus before making a return to the Red Devils in 2021 where he played until 2023, before departing for the Saudi Pro League.
Ronaldo became the first man to score 900 career goals after tapping in the ball at the 34th minute of Portugal’s UEFA Nations League group stage match against Croatia in Lisbon, which they won 2-1.
The Portuguese football star called Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea his “second house,” adding that he loves to spend time there with his family.
“The Red Sea which is my second home or [even my] first home is unbelievable like a diamond,” he said, adding that it is “one of the most beautiful places” he has ever been to.
Ronaldo also spoke on AlUla, an increasingly famous tourist spot in Saudi Arabia’s northwest located near two oases, Khaybar and Tayma.
“It is beautiful because it is spiritual, you can feel the energy there. I felt it as well, to be honest,” the Portuguese star said.
“Even in the mountains they have snow. People in Saudi [Arabia]? Yes, they have snow. They have everything, so it is a lovely country.”
Source:arabnews.com
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Pakistan
Three ‘militants’ killed in attack on paramilitary HQ in Mohmand
Fauzee Khan Mohmand
September 7, 2024
MOHMAND: Three alleged militants died in an attack on a paramilitary headquarters and the subsequent exchange of fire with security forces in Mohmand district on Friday, according to police.
Sources told Dawn that four militants attacked the headquarters of Mohmand Rifles in Ghalanai and attempted to enter the building.
Security personnel posted at the gate attempted to stop the militants, two of whom blew their suicide jackets and died on the spot, according to District Police Officer Usama Ameen Cheema.
A heavy contingent of Frontier Corps and police responded to the attack and managed to kill one of the militants, the officer confirmed.
One of the alleged militants was still missing, and a search operation was underway in the compound to locate him, sources said.
The buildings inside the camp were partially damaged in the attack, but no casualties of security personnel were reported.
An eyewitness told Dawn that he heard gunshots at around 4am, followed by four explosions.
The intense exchange of fire lasted for about two hours, during which locals remained under siege.
Six ‘terrorists’ gunned down
Separately, security forces claimed to have killed six alleged terrorists in Pishin and Lakki Marwat on Friday.
Balochistan police’s Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) gunned down five terrorists in an operation conducted at Surkhab refugee camp, in Pishin.
A CTD spokesman said the operation was conducted on a tipoff about the presence of suspected terrorists. The deceased were allegedly involved in the killing of police officers.
In Lakki Marwat, police claimed to have killed a terror mastermind in an intelligence-based operation in the Aalami Kallay area of Naurang town.
The operation was carried out after local police received information about the presence of the alleged terrorist commander, identified as Mullah Muhammad Ghulam, at his hideout in a remote rural locality, a police officer said.
As cops started closing in on the suspected location, the militant commander allegedly attacked them with automatic weapons, the official claimed.
As police retaliated, a gun battle ensued, which continued for some time. The cops “effectively engaged” the alleged terrorist and managed to kill him.
Arms and ammunition were also seized during the operation.
The deceased was allegedly involved in “numerous militant activities” including target killings, extortion, explosions and attacks on law enforcement agencies.
According to the police officer, the alleged terrorist was wanted by both police and the CTD in a number of cases.
Saleem Shahid in Quetta and Ghulam Mursalin Marwat in Lakki Marwat also contributed to this report
Source:dawn.com
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Karsaz accident suspects granted bail as victims’ family pardons ‘in the name of Allah’
Ishaq Tanoli
September 6, 2024
A sessions court in Karachi on Friday granted bail to Natasha Danish — the driver booked in the Karsaz accident case last month — and her husband on manslaughter charges after the counsel to the victims’ family said that they had pardoned them and removed their objections.
On August 19, a speeding Toyota Land Cruiser, driven by Natasha, hit three motorcycles and another car before overturning on the city’s Karsaz Road.
Sixty-year-old Imran Arif and his 22-year-old daughter Amna were killed in the accident, while three others were wounded. Subsequently, Natasha was booked and arrested.
Police then formed a special investigation team to probe the accident registered against the suspect. During the investigation, the driver’s husband, Danish Iqbal, had also been named as a suspect. However, he was later granted a seven-day protective pre-arrest bail by the Sindh High Court.
On August 28, Sindh Inspector General (IG) of Police Ghulam Nabi Memon told Dawn.com that Natasha was under the influence of narcotic methamphetamine (crystal meth) while driving.
Consequently, a separate first information report (FIR) was registered by the police against Natasha under Section 11 (drinking liable to tazir) of the Prohibition (Enforcement of Hadd) Order (PEHO) of 1979.
Natasha was then granted bail in the accident case by the courts but, she would remain under custody until the conclusion of the narcotics case.
According to defence counsel, Advocate Amir Mansoob Qureshi, Natasha, and her husband’s bails were set for Rs100,000 and Rs50,000 respectively.
The hearing for the narcotics case is set for Monday.
‘No blood money paid’
The aggrieved party’s lawyer, Barrister Aziz Ghouri, denied that diyat (blood money) was paid to the family, saying that the suspect was pardoned “in the name of Allah”.
“[They have forgiven the suspect] out of court in the name of Allah”, according to the affidavit that has come forward,“ he said.
“They (the family) are saying that they have forgiven because those who forgive have the highest stature,” he added as he denied reports of any monetary settlement between the two parties.
Meanwhile, defence counsel Qureshi said he was “not aware” of any compensation provided to the victims’ family.
He said that the courts had not placed any travel restrictions on Natasha and that his client was free to leave the country if she wanted.
The lawyer also said that the matter stood resolved because the family had issued a pardon.
Source:dawn.com
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Imran Khan threatens IO, NAB chairman with 'legal consequences'
By Shabbir Ahmed Dar
September 06, 2024
RAWALPINDI: Incarcerated Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan on Friday threatened the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) chairman and an investigation officer (IO), warning of ‘legal consequences’ once he is released from jail.
During today’s hearing of a new Toshakhana reference at Adiala Jail in Rawalpindi, the deposed prime minister told NAB official, Mohsin Haroon, that he will “not spare you and NAB chief when I’m out of jail”.
“My spouse [Bushra Bibi] is facing imprisonment due to cases concocted by you,” Imran said while pointing a finger at Haroon.
“I will take you both [IO and NAB chairman] to court [over fabricated cases],” said Imran — who was ousted from the prime minister’s office via a no-confidence motion in 2022.
On September 2, an accountability court in Rawalpindi extended the judicial remand of the PTI founder and his wife in a new Toshakhana reference.
The new reference pertains to a case related to a jewellery set gifted to former first lady Bushra by the Saudi crown prince when Imran was the prime minister of the country from 2018 to 2022.
Notably, the anti-graft bureau’s investigation officer had informed the media about threats made by the former premier at least four times.
This is not the first time Imran Khan has hurled threats at public officials with the most prominent being the case of Judge Zeba Chaudhry.
Just months after his ouster in April 2023, the PTI founder gave a fiery speech directed towards Islamabad's top police officials and judge Chaudhry threatening not to "spare" them and file cases against them for "torturing" his party leader Shahbaz Gill.
Meanwhile, the NAB prosecution team sought adjournment of the hearing citing the absence of prosecutor Umar Majeed. “[The] Supreme Court has given a verdict on the NAB amendments case, and we have to review it,” they added.
Subsequently, the accountability court adjourned the hearing till September 9 at the prosecution team’s request.
'Don't undermine Gandapur'
Speaking to journalists after the hearing, Khan — without giving names — claimed that “some individuals” were plotting within the party against Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur.
He asked the party members not to “undermine Gandapur as I stand by him”, saying that this was not the time for differences.
“Those plotting against Ali Amin Gandapur should not complain me of not getting [election] tickets in future,” the PTI founder added.
Bushra Bibi’s cases
The former first lady was first arrested in January this year and kept under house arrest at her residence in Bani Gala after she along with Khan were convicted in the infamous Toshakhana case related to the illegal sale of state gifts.
The duo's sentence in the reference was suspended by the IHC in April.
Later, she was shifted to Rawalpindi's Adiala Jail in May after the IHC approved her plea challenging the house arrest.
In July, Khan and Bushra were acquitted by a district and sessions court in the iddat case.
However, Bushra remains behind bars in other cases including the £190m NCA scandal and a fresh Tohshakhana reference pertaining to a jewellery set gifted by the Saudi crown prince.
Source:thenews.com.pk
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Senators oppose special powers for security forces
Iftikhar A. Khan
September 7, 2024
ISLAMABAD: Senators on Friday decried government’s decision to give special powers to the army and civil armed forces in Balochistan, allowing security forces to detain suspects of terrorism for three months.
The lawmakers expressed their concern over the issue a day after the federal cabinet approved an amendment to the Anti-Terrorism Act (ATA) 1997, giving sweeping powers to the security forces for “more effective counterterrorism operations”.
While speaking in the parliament, the senators warned that the powers to detain ‘terror suspects’ or individuals posing threat to the national security, for a period of three months would worsen the situation, a week after multiple coordinated attacks rocked Balochistan.
National Party senator Jan Muhammad Buledi, on a point of public importance, referred to the demands raised in the parliament for holding dialogue with estranged Baloch youth and regretted the outcome of the parliamentary debate was the government move to grant special powers to security forces.
He believed the proposed legislation would empower security personnel to enter anyone’s house without search warrants and make arrests. He feared that the government would “misuse its majority” to get the amendment passed by the parliament.
“The biggest issue of Balochistan is enforced disappearances that has set the entire province on fire,” he said.
He said families of missing persons were unaware of their whereabouts, while those who could not be questioned by people were being provided a legal cover for the sweeping powers.
Referring to the arrest of his party’s vice president during a raid at his residence, Senator Buledi remarked they already lived in a ‘police state’, as when he asked about the arrest warrants, his head was smashed against the wall. He warned that such laws for Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa would only aggravate the crisis, pointing out that the use of force would provide no solution.
Also, Awami National Party chief Aimal Wali Khan rejected the move. He noted even if it was passed by the parliament, the law would be challenged before the Supreme Court for being in conflict with the fundamental rights.
‘Legalising enforced disappearances’
He regretted that the legislation was being brought at a time when the issue of missing persons stood unresolved. “It appears that the law would give legal cover to the phenomenon of enforced disappearances,” he said.
He demanded that the government reverse the decision of granting special powers to the armed forces. Also, opposing the idea of giving special powers to the army and civil armed forces, JUI-F lawmaker Kamran Murtaza regretted that discriminatory treatment was being meted out with the people of Balochistan.
He said the two major decisions, including a ban on public transport in the province during night hours, made after the apex committee meeting in Quetta were worrisome.
“What message will go out to the world when Balochistan has been made a “no-go area”, he said, adding that the only option left with people and their representatives was to record their protest against the decisions.
While speaking on a point of public concern, leader of the opposition in Senate Shibli Faraz criticised the ruling coalition for allegedly not introducing legislation in the parliament based on public interest.
Referring to the bill to regulate and ban public assemblies in Islamabad, he said the government was doing “anti-people and anti-democracy” legislation. “The law passed by the house — a democratic platform — about regulating public assemblies has embarrassed us,” he said.
Senator Faraz said that the PML-N coalition after the ouster of Imran Khan’s government introduced two laws — one banning use of electronic voting machines in the general elections and the other scrapping powers of NAB.
Defence Day resolution
Also, the house adopted a resolution moved by PPP senator Poonjo Bheel to mark the Defence Day of Pakistan.
“On this special day, the Senate of Pakistan and the whole nation stands united with the armed forces with utmost discipline and unwavering faith to make this country strong.
“Our soldiers are our great asset as they not only offer their precious lives fighting in battlefields but also remain prepared to undertake the responsibility of working as a cohesive force in every challenging situation,” the resolution read.
Source:dawn.com
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Chief Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa to visit Kabul for talks with Afghan officials
By Fidel Rahmati
September 7, 2024
Ali Amin Khan Gandapur, the Chief Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province in Pakistan, has announced that he will travel to Kabul regardless of whether Islamabad approves or disapproves of his visit.
According to Dawn newspaper, Mr Gandapur made this statement during a public gathering in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa on Thursday, September 5.
The senior provincial official mentioned that he had requested the Pakistani government permit him to visit Afghanistan.
He further emphasized that if Islamabad does not approve his request, he and tribal elders will travel to Kabul to negotiate with the Taliban government.
He stated that peace in this volatile province of Pakistan is closely linked to “a peaceful Afghanistan.”
Gandapur’s determination to visit Kabul underscores his urgency in addressing pressing cross-border issues and fostering regional peace. His initiative reflects a proactive stance on navigating the complex dynamics between Pakistan and Afghanistan, particularly in light of the ongoing security challenges in the region.
Since the Taliban’s takeover of Afghanistan, Pakistani officials have alleged that the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) is receiving support from the Afghan Taliban and finding refuge within Afghanistan’s territory.
However, the Afghan Taliban have consistently denied these allegations, adding a layer of complexity to the diplomatic and security discussions between the two nations.
Source:khaama.com
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Africa
Death toll in Kenya school fire rises to 18, with 70 children missing
By Rédaction Africanews
At least 18 young children have died and 27 others have been hospitalised after a fire ripped through the dormitory at their primary school in central Kenya overnight on Thursday.
Late on Friday, the death toll went up after one student died of their injuries at the hospital.
Police said the blaze at Hillside Endarasha Academy in Nyeri county broke out just after midnight on Friday, engulfing the dormitory where more than 150 boys between the ages of 10 and 14 were sleeping.
Since most of the school’s buildings are made using wooden planks, the fire spread very fast.
With at least 70 children unaccounted for, local authorities expect the death toll to rise, although some of them might have gone home with families for the night.
Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has urged community members who may have sheltered some of the children to bring them back so that they can be accounted for.
The school, which has 824 students, is located in the country’s central highlands, 200 kilometres north of the capital, Nairobi.
Many families have been left waiting anxiously to be reunited with their children, with one parent saying they had been given very little information.
The government has promised to mobilise all available resources to support the families of those involved.
Police spokesperson, Resila Onyango, said they have opened investigations into the cause of the fire.
President William Ruto has declared three days of mourning during which flags will be flown at half-staff in honour of the children who died.
“I instruct relevant authorities to thoroughly investigate this horrific incident. Those responsible will be held to account,” he wrote on the social media platform X.
Gachagua urged school administrators to ensure that safety guidelines recommended by the education ministry for boarding schools were being followed.
School fires are common in Kenyan boarding schools, often due to arson fuelled by drug abuse and overcrowding, according to a recent education ministry report.
Many students stay at school because their parents believe it gives them more time to study without long commutes.
The deadliest school fire was in 2001 when 67 students died in a dormitory fire in Machakos County.
Source:africanews.com
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70-children-missing/
Army Kill 152 Terrorists, Arrest 109 In One Week – DHQ Confirms
7 September 2024
Richard Ogunsile
No fewer than one hundred and fifty-two terrorists were killed in recent operations by troops of the Nigerian army.
The Defence Headquarters disclosed this in a Friday statement stating that the criminal elements were eliminated while 109 others were captured during the past week.
The military high command further indicated that the strongholds of two infamous terrorist leaders—the Sadiku enclave located at Tsora Hill in the Safana Local Government Area of Katsina State, and the Yusuf enclave situated in Yadi Forest, Giwa Local Government Area of Kaduna State—were dismantled.
Naija News reports that the Director of Media Operations, Edward Buba, stated in the release that these accomplishments reflect the military’s consistent advancement towards eradicating all criminal factions.
“The war against terrorists, insurgents, violent extremists and others perpetrating insecurity in the country rages, and troops are sustaining the momentum to achieve victory. Indeed, the armed forces are steadily progressing towards the goal of destruction of all these elements.
“Given recent events, the military learns every day and makes improvements on ways to better deal with threat situations posed by these terror groups. Troops are moving in against the terrorists and denying them freedom of action.
“During the week, troops carried out surgical operations against two prominent terrorist commanders and decimated their strongholds, namely, Sadiku enclave in Tsora Hill in Safana LGA of Katsina State and Alhaji Yusuf enclave in Yadi Forest in Giwa LGA of Kaduna State.
“Overall, troops operations during the week resulted in 152 terrorists neutralised, 109 arrested and 91 hostages rescued,” Buba said.
He further noted that during operations targeting crude oil theft, the military recovered products valued at ₦795 million.
Buba encouraged the citizens to assist the troops in their efforts to combat insecurity in the nation.
Source:naijanews.com
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Bandits kidnap six family members of Islamic cleric in Sokoto
Jerry Wright-Ukwu
September 6, 2024
Six family members of prominent Islamic cleric, Sheikh Bashar Danfili, have been abducted by suspected bandits.
The victims, which include the cleric’s mother, stepmother, two wives, a sister, and a male relative, were kidnapped while travelling to a nearby village, according to multiple reports.
Speaking to Daily Trust, Sheikh Danfili revealed that the bandits have demanded an enormous ransom for the release of his family members, but he has been unable to meet the demands so far.
“The bandits have kidnapped my close relatives. I don’t want to disclose their names.
“They were on their way to a village when they were attacked and kidnapped,” he said.
The cleric also revealed that the driver who was transporting his relatives was killed on the spot by the assailants, who then fed his body to their dogs.
“Their driver was killed on the spot, and the bandits fed their dogs with his flesh,” Sheikh Danfili said.
The cleric did not disclose how much ransom the kidnappers demanded but described it as a “huge amount” beyond his ability to pay.
Source:politicsnigeria.com
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WHO and Africa CDC launch response plan to the mpox outbreak
By Rédaction Africanews
The Africa Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) and the World Health Organization on Friday launched a continent-wide response plan to the outbreak of mpox.
The joint initiative aims to strengthen and accelerate African countries’ response to the virus, supporting their efforts to curb its spread, and to save and protect lives.
It will get underway this month and run through to February next year, with an estimated budget of close to $600 million.
The announcement of the plan comes three weeks after the WHO declared the spread of the new strain of mpox a public health emergency of international concern.
Africa CDC’s director-general, Dr Jean Kaseya, said 55 per cent of the funds will go to the 14 nations with registered cases and to boost readiness in 15 others.
The remaining 45 per cent will be directed towards operational and technical support through partners. The organisation did not indicate who would be funding it.
“We have classified countries based on their degree of risk, where there is intense spread as is happening in eastern DRC and other places where there is transmission happening,” said WHO regional director for Africa, Matshidiso Moeti.
“And then right down to countries where we are working very much on building the preparedness and readiness to address in case cases appear, as has happened in Guinea.”
The plan focuses on surveillance, laboratory testing, and community engagement, Kaseya said, underscoring the fact that vaccines are not enough to fight the spreading outbreak.
Africa CDC said that since the start of 2024, there have been 5,549 confirmed mpox cases across the continent, with 643 associated deaths.
This represents a sharp escalation in both infections and fatalities compared to previous years.
Cases in the Democratic Republic of Congo make up 91 per cent of the total number. Most mpox infections in Congo and Burundi, the second most affected country, are in children under the age of 15.
Source:africanews.com
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South Africa's justice minister denies corruption in bank scandal
By Rédaction Africanews
South Africa's justice minister on Friday denied corruption allegations against her related to a mutual bank scandal in which thousands of retirees lost their life savings.
VBS Mutual Bank, which held the savings of retirees mostly from the northern Limpopo province and also unlawfully secured investments from local municipalities, was declared insolvent and bankrupt in 2018 after it emerged that more than 2 billion rand ($112 million) had been stolen from the bank.
Police investigations showed that money held by the bank was used to purchase luxury houses and vehicles, among other things, and to distribute financial gifts to various people and organizations, including political parties.
Justice Minister Thembi Simelane was only appointed to her position in June in the country's newly-formed government of national unity, after the former ruling African National Congress party lost its parliamentary majority in the May 29 election.
She is alleged to have received a “loan” to purchase a coffee shop from a company accused of receiving kickbacks for brokering unlawful investments for VBS from South African municipalities, including the Polokwane municipality where she was mayor at the time.
There have been calls from various quarters for Simelane to be removed from her position as justice minister, where she provides political oversight of the National Prosecuting Authority, which is trying corruption cases related to VBS.
Responding to questions in Parliament, Simelane insisted that she the loan she received was above board and that she had paid it back with interest. Simelane also denied that the loan was in anyway related to the municipality she was in charge of investing into the bank.
She denied any conflict of interest regarding the investigations into VBS' collapse and her responsibilities as a minister.
“The minister does not decide who should be prosecuted or not prosecuted. I offered impartiality to the NPA (National Prosecuting Authority),” Simelane said.
President Cyril Ramaphosa, whose government has promised to be tough on corruption in the government and state-owned enterprises since he was reelected as president this year, has faced pressure from opposition parties and civil society groups to fire Simelane.
Last week, he asked Simelane to respond officially to him about the serious allegations against her.
Addressing the media after a state visit to China this week where he also attended the China-Africa summit, Ramaphosa said the matter regarding Simelane would not be “swept under the carpet.”
Investigations against those involved in the looting of the bank have already resulted in convictions against some of the alleged masterminds behind the scheme to steal from the bank.
Tshifiwa Matodzi, the bank's former chairman, was recently sentenced to 15 years in prison after entering into a plea deal with the state, and revealed the mechanisation of the scheme, including monies that were paid to the political opposition party Economic Freedom Fighters as “donations.”
Investigations into the bank collapse continue.
Source:africanews.com
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https://www.africanews.com/2024/09/06/south-africas-justice-minister-denies-corruption-in-bank-scandal/
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Southeast Asia
Say goodbye to these federal awards if you commit any crime and tarnish Malaysia’s honour, King tells recipients
07 Sep 2024
KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 7 — His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, today warned that he will withdraw the federal awards, medals and honours of recipients who commit crimes, tarnish the country’s image or if punished by the courts.
His Majesty said they had been selected for the awards and honours and therefore, should be honest and trustworthy to the government, mind their behaviour and not be involved in corrupt activities and crime.
“If a recipient is found to have tarnished the country’s image or commits a crime and has been punished by the court, then the award will be withdrawn. Goodbye to it.
“Accordingly, I have instructed the government to check the list of inmates in all prisons and any inmate with federal awards or honours, to have the award withdrawn. This is only for federal awards and honours. As for awards conferred by other states, I do not interfere,” said His Majesty.
Sultan Ibrahim said this at the investiture ceremony during the conferment of awards, medals and honours in conjunction with His Majesty’s official birthday today at the Balairung Seri of Istana Negara.
Also present was Her Majesty Raja Zarith Sofiah, Queen of Malaysia.
His Majesty noted that each year, many individuals aspire and work hard to receive the federal awards conferred in conjunction with the King’s official birthday and some fall victim to deception and are exploited by unscrupulous agents seeking to take advantage of them.
Sultan Ibrahim revealed some individuals personally lobbied him for the awards carrying the ‘Tan Sri’ and ‘Datuk’ titles, but he chose not to entertain them.
“I would like to make it known here that every nomination submitted by the government will be scrutinised one by one and consideration will be given to truly qualified candidates who have served and contributed to the government, the community and the country,” said His Majesty.
As such, His Majesty said he conferred the federal awards, medals and honours to only 116 recipients this year.
Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar headed the list of the 116 recipients for this year’s federal awards, medals and honours.
He was conferred the Panglima Mangku Negara (PMN) which carries the title ‘Tan Sri’. — Bernama
Source:malaymail.com
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https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2024/09/07/say-goodbye-to-these-federal-awards-if-you-commit-any-crime-and-tarnish-malaysias-honour-king-tells-recipients/149585
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PM Anwar’s Russia visit secures strategic foothold for Malaysia in global landscape
BERNAMA
07-09- 2024
KUALA LUMPUR: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s recent working visit to Russia this week was a strategic masterstroke aimed at securing Malaysia’s foothold in a rapidly shifting global order.
Chairman of the Institute of Strategic and International Studies (ISIS), Datuk Prof Dr Mohd Faiz Abdullah said the two-day visit to Vladivostok is broadening Malaysia’s economic horizons, strengthening its strategic partnerships, and asserting its independence in a world increasingly defined by geopolitical competition.
“Anwar’s visit to Russia was far from a half-cocked adventure. It was a carefully calculated move to secure Malaysia’s place in a rapidly evolving global landscape,” he said in a piece titled “Why Anwar Went to Russia,“ published on Bernama’s website on Saturday.
Anwar arrived in Vladivostok on Sept 4 to participate in the plenary session of the 9th Eastern Economic Forum (EEF) at the invitation of Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Anwar also held a bilateral meeting with Putin.
Mohd Faiz said the prime minister’s visit was met with a range of reactions, from interest to bemusement and perhaps even unease.
“Anwar journeyed to Vladivostok with a clear purpose: advancing Malaysia’s interests by strengthening ties with Russia. His grand strategy was to broaden Malaysia’s geoeconomic space while diversifying its global partnerships,” he said.
Mohd Faiz said Anwar acknowledged the sensitivity of engaging with Russia in the current geopolitical climate, conceding at the outset of his meeting that it was “not an easy feat,“ but nonetheless affirming it was “the right decision.”
“Anwar’s approach to Russia is not one of blind alignment, as the prime minister firmly reaffirmed Malaysia’s position on the Ukraine conflict, advocating for a peaceful resolution through dialogue.
“In all his diplomatic engagements, the Prime Minister was steadfast in defending Malaysia’s principles and interests, even when dealing with major powers,” he said.
He cited Anwar’s handling of questions about China in the South China Sea as an example, where Malaysia consistently upholds its sovereignty while maintaining a careful balance in its relations.
“This same pragmatism governs Malaysia’s relationship with Russia. Disagreements may arise, but diplomacy doesn’t require airing every issue publicly,” he said.
Mohd Faiz said Anwar exemplified Malaysia’s approach of seeking alignment where possible while tactfully managing differences where necessary.
“At the same time, Anwar underscored common ground with partner nations on issues important to Malaysians. His call during the Vladivostok speech for international pressure on Israel to end the genocide in Gaza struck a powerful chord, with even Putin, seated beside him, joining in the applause.
“In this delicate balance, Anwar demonstrated Malaysia’s ability to seek alignment where possible while managing differences where necessary,” he said.
On BRICS, Mohd Faiz regarded Putin’s invitation for Malaysia to attend the BRICS Summit in Kazan, Russia, slated for Oct 22 to 24 as a critical step in the gradual move towards membership in the emerging bloc.
“By engaging early, Malaysia could secure its position as a key player in this growing network,” he said adding that the bloc may still be in its formative years compared to more established international organisations, its potential should not be underestimated.
Meanwhile, Mohd Faiz said Anwar’s visit also aimed to elevate Malaysia-Russia economic ties.
He said Russia’s shifting focus towards Asia, driven by sanctions and the decline of its European trade, presents a timely opportunity for Malaysia.
“This pivot toward the East offers Malaysia a chance to capitalise on new trade flows. In a global environment of increasing protectionism, Malaysia needs to seize business opportunities wherever they arise,” he said.
Meanwhile, Mohd Faiz said Anwar’s visit sparked a surge of national pride on social media, with many Malaysians appreciating the respect Anwar received on the global stage.
He described it as a “broader expression of pride in Malaysia’s international stature” and a desire for Malaysia to assert its place in a multipolar world.
Source:thesun.my
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https://thesun.my/local-news/pm-anwar-s-russia-visit-secures-strategic-foothold-for-malaysia-in-global-landscape-KN12974086
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Bukit Aman has eyes on company linked to deviationist Islamic teachings thought to be using kids for donations
07 Sep 2024
BANGI, Sept 7 — The police are monitoring a company suspected of having links with a religious movement in the country following reports of child exploitation involving the company, said Deputy Inspector General of Police Datuk Seri Ayob Khan Mydin Pitchay.
He said four reports were received in Selangor involving the company and the case was investigated under Section 32 (a) of the Child Act 2001 for allegedly exploiting children to collect donations.
“Based on the information obtained, it is believed that this company is not contributing to the Employees’ Provident Fund, and has established many charity homes donations which they use to seek donations.
“Members of this group include professionals with huge influence,” he told a press conference after the presentation of the Certificate of Appointment as Inspectors of the Student Police Volunteer Corps (Suksis) of public universities at Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia here today.
Ayob Khan said the company was among eight organisations out of 114 monitored by the Special Branch of the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM).
The company is also on the list of deviant groups being monitored by the Malaysian Islamic Development Department (JAKIM) and the State Islamic Religious Department, he added.
Ayob Khan said that from 2022 until last August, the police had received 80 police reports of deviationist teachings, following which 122 arrests were made.
“This is an ongoing process and we will continue to monitor as well as work with JAIN and Jakim to eliminate deviationist teachings,” he said.
Yesterday, the Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Datuk Dr Mohd Na’im Mokhtar was reported to have said that that an engagement session with representatives of the company would be held.
Meanwhile, Ayob Khan said PDRM is working with the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) to block and obtain information about extremist and criminal movements on social media such as Telegram.
He said the police were aware of the use of social media including Telegram to commit criminal activities such as online gambling, child pornography and fraud. — Bernama
Source:malaymail.com
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https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2024/09/07/bukit-aman-has-eyes-on-company-linked-to-deviationist-islamic-teachings-thought-to-be-using-kids-for-donations/149622
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Umno’s ulama council: No need for Muslim-owned eateries to get halal cert as they are bound by Islamic rules on halal and ‘haram’
07 Sep 2024
KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 7 — Umno’s ulama council today said that it is unnecessary for Muslim-owned eateries to be required to obtain halal certification from the Malaysian Islamic Development Department (Jakim) as they are already bound by Islamic rules concerning halal and haram.
In a Facebook post, the council’s deputy president, Datuk Mohd Khairuddin Aman Razali, stated that Muslim-owned businesses should be exempt from the proposal since Muslims are already obligated to follow Islamic guidelines on halal and haram, and food prepared by Muslims is generally considered halal unless proven otherwise, according to a report published today in Free Malaysia Today.
Khairuddin however acknowledged that obtaining halal certification for restaurants and products operated or made by Muslims could increase public confidence in the halal status of these establishments.
On Thursday, religious affairs minister Datuk Mohd Na’im Mokhtar said Jakim was considering making halal certification mandatory for restaurants and food companies that do not serve pork or alcohol.
Currently, halal certification is voluntary for such businesses.
Seputeh MP Teresa Kok opposed the proposal, stating that it could burden small businesses, limit consumer choices, and may conflict with Malaysia’s cultural diversity. She warned that making the certification compulsory could trigger negative reactions domestically and damage Malaysia’s international reputation.
The Malay Chamber of Commerce Malaysia (DPMM), however, disagreed with Kok’s concerns, calling them unfounded and contrary to the realities of the trillion-dollar global halal market.
“Halal certification is essential to ensure hygiene standards, food safety, and Shariah compliance, which benefits not only Muslims but also non-Muslim consumers who recognise the quality assured through the certification,” said DPMM president Norsyahrin Hamidon in a statement.
He added that as Malaysia is recognised as a global leader in the halal industry, mandatory certification would further solidify the country’s position as a halal hub. With adequate support in raising awareness and providing technical assistance, small traders could also benefit from halal certification as a value-add to their businesses.
Source:malaymail.com
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India
Jammu and Kashmir heading for 'historic' assembly elections under national flag and Constitution: Amit Shah
07.09.24
Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Saturday assured restoration of statehood to Jammu and Kashmir after the assembly polls, which he said are the first under the national flag and the Constitution following the abrogation of Article 370 by the Modi government.
He accused the Congress-National Conference alliance of making attempts to revive the "old system".
The NDA government will not allow the revival of terrorism, "autonomy", and injustice with any community including Gujjars, Pahari, Bakerwals and Dalits who were granted reservation by the BJP dispensation, he said.
Shah is in Jammu on a two-day visit to boost the BJP's election campaign for the three-phase assembly elections, beginning September 18.
He released the party's manifesto on his first day of visit on Friday and also chaired two crucial meetings with senior leaders to discuss the campaign strategy.
"The coming elections in J-K are historic because after Independence, the polls are happening the first time under our national flag and Constitution, unlike in the past practice of two flags and two constitutions. We have only one prime minister from Kashmir to Kanyakumari and he is Modi," the home told a BJP workers' rally here on Saturday.
Taking a dig at the National Conference-Congress alliance, Shah alleged they are trying to push Jammu and Kashmir into the fire of terrorism once again when the government has brought down terror incidents in the union territory by 70 percent.
"The National Conference and the Congress will never be able to form a government in J-K, be confident about it," Shah told the party workers, encouraging them to ensure the success of the BJP candidates to form the next government.
Source:telegraphindia.com
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https://www.telegraphindia.com/india/amit-shah-jammu-and-kashmir-heading-for-historic-assembly-elections-under-national-flag-and-constitution/cid/2046467
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Miscreants hack website of Amroha school which expelled class 5 Muslim boy over non-veg food; posts ‘Free Palestine’ message
September 06, 2024
Miscreants have reportedly hacked the website of a school in Amroha, Uttar Pradesh facing public ire for expelling a class 5 student over non-vegetarian food. Miscreants have overlapped the site’s content with ‘Free Palestine’ and ‘oppression on Muslims’ messages.
The private school, Hilton Convent School in Amroha, was in the eye of a storm on Thursday after it expelled a class 5 student over bringing non-vegetarian food for lunch. A video of the school principal’s heated argument with the ward’s parents went viral on social media on Thursday, forcing the district administration to initiate action against the principal.
Miscreants have hacked the website of the school and have posted a series of images in the site pushing down the school’s original content. Miscreants have posted images with messages like “Free Palestine, Save Palestine” and “All eyes on Indian Muslim homes”, referring to alleged demolition action against Muslim accused in criminal cases.
In the video, the school principal is allegedly heard saying to the student’s mother, “Your child says that he wants to convert everyone to Islam by making them eat non-vegetarian food.” The principal further alleges that the boy wants to destroy Hindu temples.
Meanwhile, the Amroha police tweeted a three-member committee has been appointed by the district administration to investigate the matter.
Amroha's Basic Education Officer has constituted a team of principals from three government schools to investigate the matter and has asked them to submit their report within three days, NDTV reported.
Source:theweek.in
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https://www.theweek.in/news/india/2024/09/06/miscreants-hack-website-of-amroha-school-which-expelled-class-5-muslim-boy-over-non-veg-food-posts-free-palestine-message.html
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BJP functionary from Nilgiris arrested for spreading false rumours of ‘love jihad’ on social media
September 06, 2024
A district functionary of the BJP was arrested by the Nilgiris district police on Friday (September 6, 2024) for spreading erroneous rumours that the murder of a woman in Udhagamandalam, allegedly by her in-laws, was a case of ‘love jihad’– a discredited right-wing conspiracy theory used to target and harass members of the minority Muslim community.
Ashika Parveen was allegedly murdered by her husband and in-laws, and four people had been arrested by the Nilgiris district police in connection with the incident. Following her murder, the police learned that members of right-wing groups were spreading rumours that Parveen was a Hindu and had been forced to convert by her husband.
The police have categorically denied this rumour, clarifying that Parveen was a Muslim by birth.
The Cyber Crime Police in the Nilgiris began tracing the social media handles of persons who were spreading these rumours, and on Friday, they arrested a resident of Aruppukottai in Virudhunagar district, identified as Vetrivel.
He was brought to Udhagamandalam for further investigation.
Source:thehindu.com
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https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Coimbatore/bjp-functionary-in-tamil-nadu-arrested-for-spreading-false-rumours-of-love-jihad-on-social-media/article68613183.ece
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Bihar: Police book 19, arrest 2 for attacking man on beef suspicion
September 7, 2024
Police in Bihar’s Samastipur district have booked 19 people and arrested two of them for allegedly assaulting a Muslim man on the suspicion that he was selling beef.
A video of the assault had been shared widely on social media.
According to the FIR, Sarjulum Qureshi, 54, a resident of Rahimabad village, was returning home on August 16 after selling mutton. Qureshi told police he had been assaulted and the `6,500 he was carrying was snatched. A police officer lodged a suo motu FIR against 19 people on August 17. The accused were identified through the viral video and booked under sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita pertaining to murderous assault.
Police said the two men who were arrested on August 26 are as Raja and Roshan Kumar Jha. Most of the accused are either self-employed or unemployed, and are not associated with any cow vigilante group.
Source:indianexpress.com
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https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/patna/samastipur-police-attack-muslim-man-beef-sale-9553542/
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People from jail being brought to fight me: Omar Abdullah sees Delhi 'plot' for J&K polls
Muzaffar Raina
07.09.24
National Conference (NC) vice-president Omar Abdullah claimed on Friday that his decision to contest two Assembly seats — Ganderbal and Budgam — was aimed at “exposing” Delhi’s “plot” to field jailed entities against him to have him defeated.
Omar lost the Baramulla parliamentary seat this summer to Sheikh Abdul “Engineer” Rashid, who has been in Tihar jail on terror-funding charges since 2019.
On Thursday, nomination papers for another jailed separatist, Sarjan Ahmad Wagay, also known as Sarjan Barkati, who was one of the leaders of the protests following the killing of young Hizb commander Burhan Wani, were filed from the Ganderbal and Beerwah Assembly constituencies. Omar was elected from Beerwah in the last Assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir in 2014. He won from Ganderbal in 2008.
Barkati’s nomination papers from Zainapora, his home constituency, were rejected on the ground that he failed to produce an “oath certificate” and some other documents on time.
In addition to Barkati, Congress's Ganderbal chief Saahil Farooq has defied his party and decided to contest against Omar.
Omar said when news started floating that another jailed politician (Barkati) was contesting from Ganderbal, he was forced to think why “they” (Delhi) were fielding them against him.
“They were brought from jail to fight against me. Is there any conspiracy, I thought to myself. I can think of Baramulla… he (Engineer Rashid) was from there. But when no one was in jail from Ganderbal to fight me, a guy from Zainapora in Shopian was brought. I still thought it was happening on its own,” he said.
“Then I consulted a few friends and told them I wanted to prove it is Delhi's conspiracy and there was only one way (which is that) I will fight from another seat but we will not tell people which seat. (I said) we will get papers from one or two places and decide in the morning to file the paper at one place. Yesterday, it was proven that people from jail are being brought to fight me.”
Omar argued this was no ordinary thing, alleging that Delhi was trying to trap him. “They (Barkati’s people) filed papers from Beerwah, I filed my papers from Budgam. They got caught because they had made preparations from Beerwah. This is proof that in Jammu and Kashmir, particularly Kashmir, Delhi is not trying to silence any politician other than me,” Omar held.
Referring to his defeat at Engineer Rashid’s hands, Omar said: “At that time I did not think it was dangerous. I thought he had fought elections in the past. He tried his luck and won. I stopped thinking about it. I did not see it as a conspiracy, an agenda of Delhi. I thought I had bad luck and he had good luck.”
The former chief minister said Delhi was against him because he represented the sentiments of the people. He said when he spread his cap before the people (on Wednesday) and asked them to protect his honour, he was not talking about his honour alone but the honour of all residents of Jammu and Kashmir.
“I fully understand that my respect is yours and your respect is mine. If your respect is wounded, how can my respect be safe? When I fight, I do not fight for myself, or my home, it is for Jammu and Kashmir,” he said.
Source:telegraphindia.com
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https://www.telegraphindia.com/india/omar-abdullah-sees-delhi-plot-for-jammu-and-kashmir-assembly-elections/cid/2046354
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Article 370 part of history, will never come back: Amit Shah at BJP manifesto launch for J-K polls
by Arun Sharma
September 6, 2024
Promising to transform Jammu and Kashmir from a “terrorist hotspot to tourism hotspot”, Union Home Minister Amit Shah Friday released the BJP’s poll manifesto here, asserting that Article 370 has become “history” and will never make a comeback.
Before releasing the manifesto (Sankalp Patra 2024), he took a dig at the Congress, saying it is silently supporting the National Conference manifesto, which talks of getting back Article 370.
“I want to tell the nation that Article 370 is history now,” he said. “It is not part of the Constitution anymore. It will never return and we will not allow it to happen. This is the Article that gave weapons and stones in the hands of the youth and facilitated them to tread the path of terrorism.”
He asked Congress’s Rahul Gandhi to clarify his party’s stand on whether it supported the agenda of the National Conference.
Shah, who reached here on Friday on a two-day visit to kickstart BJP’s poll campaign for the assembly elections, scheduled to be held in three phases on September 18, 25 and October 1, said that the last 10-year period will be written in gold letters in the history of the country and J&K.
Later, releasing the party’s poll manifesto, he appealed to people to vote the BJP to power in Jammu and Kashmir to transform it from “a terrorist hotspot to a tourist hotspot”, adding that terrorism will be completely wiped out from here.
“A white paper will be issued to fix responsibility of those involved in the emergence of terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir,” he said.
He also promised a detailed scheme for rehabilitation of Kashmiri Pandits.
Other key promises in the manifesto are:
– ‘Ma Samman Yojana’ to give Rs 18,000 to the eldest woman of every family, each year.
– Two free cylinders under the Ujjwala scheme, per year.
– Under Pragati Shiksha Yojana, Rs 3,000 travelling allowance to college students per year.
– Providing assistance via the state government for Women SHGs on the issue of interest on bank loans.
– Through the Atal Housing Scheme, land will be allotted free of cost to landless beneficiaries.
– Old age, widow, and disability pensions will be increased three times.
– Provide ₹10,000 to the farmers of the state under PM Kisan Samman Nidhi.
– Reduce electricity rates for agricultural activities by 50%.
– Generate 5 lakh employment opportunities for the youth.
– Ensure a fair and just recruitment process.
– Add 1,000 new seats in medical colleges to improve the education system.
– Complete all important tunnel projects.
– Construct 10,000 km of new rural roads.
– Initiate metro services in Jammu and Srinagar.
– Rebuild and renovate Hindu temples and religious places.
Source:indianexpress.com
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https://indianexpress.com/article/india/article-370-never-come-back-amit-shah-bjp-manifesto-launch-j-k-polls-9553706/
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Europe
Conservative Ex-Mayor Attacks Top Tories For 'Inflammatory' Anti-Muslim Language
Philip Corrigan
, 6 SEP 2024
A Conservative Stoke-on-Trent councillor has criticised national Tory politicians for using language that 'fuels hatred' against Muslims. Meir South councillor Faisal Hussain listed Conservative leadership frontrunner Robert Jenrick and former Home Secretary Suella Braverman among politicians who had spread 'misinformation' about Muslims, saying this had been a factor behind last month's riots in Hanley and around the country.
Mr Hussain called on Stoke-on-Trent City Council to adopt the Runnymede Trust's definition of Islamophobia, and to lobby the government to do so as well. He said politicians 'of all colours', along with the media, had contributed to the growth of anti-Muslim hatred over many years.
Mr Hussain, in proposing his motion to a meeting of the full council, argued that formally defining Islamophobia would be an important step towards tackling it. The Runnymede Trust defines Islamophobia as 'anti-Muslim racism'.
He said: "We have seen politicians of all colours, including those within my own party nationally, using inflammatory language which fuels hatred. From the likes of Nigel Farage, Tommy Robinson, Andrew Tate misinforming people about what happened in Southport. To the likes of Suella Braverman calling protestors hate marchers, Rob Jenrick saying those who say 'Allahu Akbar' should be arrested - it's bizarre, because this is something that is said by Muslims around the world, many times in their daily lives, and means 'God is great'.
"And then you've got the current Prime Minister who singled out the Bangladeshi community during the election campaign. This is the type of language that's been spoken and unfortunately creates division. We also have the media pushing out that negative narrative, that if one person who is Muslim does something wrong then that automatically means that all Muslims are wrong."
Mr Hussain, a fourth generation British Muslim, told the meeting that he had previously believed that the 'dark times' were a thing of the past, but last month's riots had shown there was still 'a lot of work to do'.
He added: "Stoke-on-Trent is a place which is home to people from many backgrounds, faith groups, colours and creeds. Stoke-on-Trent is proud of its diversity, and I am proud of what our great city has to offer. What took place a few weeks ago knocked us all back a few pegs, and that hard-won community cohesion has been impacted."
Mr Hussain's motion was backed unanimously by city councillors. Earlier this week, Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner told Parliament that Labour was 'actively considering' its approach to Islamophobia, including definitions.
Labour city councillor Finlay Gordon-McCusker welcomed the motion and commended Mr Hussain for his willingness to call out Islamophobia in his own party.
He said: "Islamophobia is a scourge on our society and we all must stand against it. We do not tolerate any form of racism, and we sincerely hope the government will ensure that Islamophobia is clearly defined."
But fellow Labour councillor Sue Akkurt said that while she supported the motion, she was 'puzzled' by it, as the Conservatives nationally had not adopted the definition, which Labour did in 2019.
Conservative councillor Sadaqat Maqsoom argued that the definition is 'not just a matter of semantics' but that it would be a 'critical tool in our fight against hate'.
Source:stokesentinel.co.uk
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https://www.stokesentinel.co.uk/news/stoke-on-trent-news/conservative-ex-mayor-attacks-top-9535405
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More private clinics refusing abortions – Russian Orthodox Church
7 Sep, 2024
More than 500 private medical centers have refused to provide abortion services despite being licensed to do so, the Russian Orthodox Church has said. This comes amid a pro-life Church initiative and a state push to boost birth rates in Russia.
The head of the Russian Orthodox Church, Patriarch Kirill of Moscow, met with top figures in the clergy as well as the Deputy Chairman of the Demography Commission of the Public Chamber of the Russian Federation on Thursday.
“According to the participants of the meeting, more than 71 regions of the Russian Federation supported the initiative of His Holiness the Patriarch to restrict abortion; 502 private clinics in Russia refused to perform abortions, which is 18% of all clinics licensed to perform abortions,” the Church statement said.
Abortions are legal in Russia, and the practice is covered by the national health insurance system. A pregnancy can be terminated up to 12 weeks into development at the woman’s request, and up to 22 weeks in for social reasons such as being the result of rape, or in the case of death or disability of the husband. Later stage abortions can be carried out for medical reasons only.
In both cases, there are mandatory waiting periods after the woman applies for the procedure, to allow for consultation time. A pregnancy can be legally terminated at any stage on medical grounds.
The majority of the Russian population opposes abortions without medical reasons, the Church said, quoting a poll conducted earlier this year.
At least 77% of Russians consider a fetus to be a human being, a sociological study conducted by the Center for Sociology of the Russian Academy of Sciences (RAN) said. A mere 18% took the view that a baby only becomes a human at birth. Nearly three quarters of the respondents were against abortion by choice, outlook or economic reasons, allowing for abortion only if medical issues were present, according to the poll data.
Last year, birth rates in the Russian Federation reached a 24-year low, according to official statistics. The number of abortions, meanwhile, has been steadily decreasing since the 1990’s, at a rate of around 6% annually.
Russia’s President Vladimir Putin has pushed back against banning abortions in the past. This week, the Russian leader spoke out for boosting birth rates by building the right economic and social conditions for people to start large families.
Source:rt.com
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https://www.rt.com/russia/603648-russian-clinics-refusing-abortions/
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UK could send criminals to EU – Telegraph
6 Sep, 2024
The British Ministry of Justice is evaluating whether some of the country’s criminals could be sent to serve their sentences in Estonian prisons in order to tackle overcrowding in jails at home, The Telegraph reported on Friday.
The Baltic state said late last month that it could rent out prison space and host criminals from other countries to generate revenue for the state budget.
According to the report, which cites British government sources, the controversial solution was “on the table” due to the severity of the situation. The Ministry of Justice said it was investigating “all viable options” to increase capacity because prisons in the UK were “on the point of collapse.”
The British prison population is expected to rise from around 89,000 to between 93,100 and 106,300 by March 2027. Men’s prisons in England and Wales almost ran out of cells last month, with just 83 spare spaces, The Telegraph wrote.
Estonia’s low crime rate means its prisons are half empty and the government in Tallinn expects that its jail-renting plan could deliver a much needed €30 million ($33 million) per year.
UK Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmood and her Estonian counterpart, Liisa Pakosta, were expected to discuss prison leasing on the sidelines of a Council of Europe event in Vilnius, Lithuania, on Thursday.
However, British officials are concerned that the idea could turn out to be “very expensive.” They have already ruled out renting space in jails in countries such as the Netherlands, where the state spends nearly £100,000 per prisoner.
In Eastern Europe and Baltic states such as Estonia, between £10,000 and £20,000 is spent per prisoner anjually, the report said. The outlay for housing a prisoner in England and Wales is nearly £50,000, while the cost of building a jail is £600,000 per prisoner, it said.
However, officials believe that any jail-renting negotiations could result in the cost doubling, as other countries would likely demand a premium, The Telegraph wrote, adding that there would be costs for flights and posting some British prison staff abroad.
Another question is whether taxpayers would need to pay for family members to visit inmates in Estonia, the report said.
Meanwhile, some senior former judges in England and Wales have said that “radical solutions” such as the earlier release of killers and rapists on parole should be considered to ease the overcrowding crisis, The Guardian reported on Friday.
Their other proposals reportedly include releasing all prisoners serving minimal sentences and removing from incarceration those who are elderly, dying, or have dementia.
Source:rt.com
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https://www.rt.com/news/603637-uk-criminals-estonia-prisons/
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Actor Shia Labeouf 'Squares Up' To Men And Yells Outside Edinburgh Pub In Tense Exchange
Rory Gannon
6 SEP 2024
Shia LaBeouf seemed to be gearing up for a fight outside a pub in Edinburgh.
Actor Shia, 38, had been holidaying in the Scottish capital when he started shouting at a group of men outside the bar. Footage from the incident shows the Transformers actor yell abuse and insults at the lads, before appearing to raise his fists.
The group of blokes walked past the Hollywood star and caught his attention in a clip that has since surfaced online. He started shouting and holding his fists up declaring: "Let's go, I'm right here motherf****r"
Taking place outside Edinburgh's famous OX184 bar last weekend, Shia was later seen taking off his baseball cap and throwing it to the floor before inciting the fight. No fight actually took place, however, as two men were later seen holding Shia back as they tried to calm him down.
The footage went on to show the Even Stevens star walking down the street as he hurled abuse at an unknown man. Three men were then seen to be gathered around Shia, one of whom held the star's arms back in an effort to keep him restrained.
Shia has been in Edinburgh alongside wife Mia Goth as they film scenes for their upcoming film Frankenstein. Speaking to The Sun just 24 hours before the altercation, a bar owner in the city had remarked that the actor had been "nothing but nice" as he tucked into a pint at the Whistlebinkies pub.
The barman said: "He was in there on the Friday; he was nothing but nice to people in there. Everyone said he was nothing but lovely.
"Apparently the stuff that happened in the video was the day after, they added. "I knew something had kicked off, but something kicks off in the Cowgate every day."
Alongside Mia, Shia has also been seen taking in the local sights and delicacies of the nation, as he was papped leaving a Greek restaurant in the nearby city of Glasgow. The pair also had a romantic dinner, together with their child before her filming got underway in Edinburgh city centre.
He also had been seen letting off some steam by heading out to enjoy many of Edinburgh's famous nightclubs. In one clip, it was revealed that Shia had stunned nightclub patrons when he showed up at Stramash, gyrating and gesticulating to his fellow revellers as he let his hair down.
In the clip, Shia was seen throwing shapes to Stevie Wonder's "Superstition" across the venue. He even made his way to being close to the stage, though he never fully got up to show off his dance moves to other partygoers.
Source:dailystar.co.uk
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https://www.dailystar.co.uk/showbiz/us-showbiz/shia-lebeouf-squares-up-men-33611675
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