Allowing wife to dissolve marriage over husband’s second marriage un-Islamic: CII

 

New Age Islam News Bureau

27 March 2025

Dr Muhammad Raghib Hussain chairs CII meeting in Islamabad on March 26, 2025. — APP

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·         Allowing wife to dissolve marriage over husband’s second marriage un-Islamic: CII

·         'Entity of concern': Modi govt slams USCIRF over proposal for sanctions on RAW, religious freedom report

·         USCIRF accuses Modi of discrimination and calls out persecution of religious minorities, urges ban on RAW in the US

·         Hamas spokesperson Qanoua killed in Israeli airstrike, Al-Aqsa TV reports

·         Over 3 million worshipers offer special prayers at Two Holy Mosques on 27th night of Ramadan

·         Erdogan’s arbitrary Islamist rule is destabilising a vital NATO member

·         Donald Trump is the furthest thing from the ‘fascist’ his enemies brand him

·         U.S. ambassador urges Nigerians to use religion to foster peace

·         PM Anwar: Construction of Madani Mosque a ‘victory’ of wisdom and strength, not arrogance

·         Afghanistan excluded from US Security Threat List despite Alleged ISIS Presence

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Pakistan

·         Amnesty urges Pakistan not to expel Afghans

·         Two security men martyred in D.I. Khan

·         Pakistani entities linked to China face US curbs

·         Asif backs Nawaz's role in resolving Balochistan issue

·         Only drinking water available amid unprecedented shortage

·         PTI slams govt for not allowing Aleema to visit Imran in jail

·         Perturbed at delays, Imran moves IHC for early decisions

·         SHC issues notices on plea challenging canals project

·         Rail services to & from Balochistan restart today

·         Armaghan earned Rs17bn through phishing scams in three years, NA body told

·         PMD forecasts surge in temperatures in coming months

·         FIA seeks court's approval to access Armaghan's Bitcoin trading platform

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India

·         After restrictions during Holi, Police imposes new curbs on Eid in Sambhal

·         'Will badly affect Muslims': Tamil Nadu assembly passes resolution against Waqf bill in state assembly, urges Centre to withdraw it

·         Delhi HC refuses to stay city court order framing charges against Sharjeel Imam

·         Meerut: Hindu outfit leader booked for creating ruckus outside mosque, reciting Hanuman Chalisa

·         Satta jihad: Uddhav Thackeray slams BJP over Saugat-e-Modi scheme for Muslims

·         Reservation for Muslims in Karnataka: Not a matter of religion

·         Is Aurangzeb’s legacy really the biggest challenge India is facing?

·         Waqf Bill protests rock Patna from streets to the House

·         Debunking the secular myth of Ramzan

·         Samajwadi MP Barq served police notice, major action likely in Sambhal violence case

·         Cow vigilantes, Bajrang Dal members attack two Muslim drivers in Ayodhya

·         Muslims are safest in Uttar Pradesh, says CM Yogi Adityanath, defends ‘bulldozer justice’

·         Waqf Amendment Bill needed for transparency, accountability of Waqf Boards: Delhi Haj Committee chair

·         Kolkata's Iftar gatherings foster inclusivity and camaraderie during Ramzan

·         Mayawati’s 2027 poll maths: MBCs+Dalits to give more returns than Muslims+Dalits

·         Karni Sena members storm SP MP’s home with bulldozer over Rana Sanga remark

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Mideast

·         Increase of US military assets in Middle East points to potential strikes on Houthis

·         Israel, Hamas trade threats as new Gaza death toll hits 830

·         Palestinians protest Hamas in a rare public show of dissent in Gaza

·         Palestinian Endowments: Enemy refuses to hand over entire Ibrahimi Mosque on Night of Power

·         Speech event in Dhamar on Imam Ali martyrdom anniversary, National Steadfastness Day & International Al-Quds Day

·         PM: "we do not want orphans to be a broken model"

·         : Houthi attacks will continue for long time

·         Cultural Evening in Khawlan, Sana’a, commemorating martyrdom of Imam Ali (AS)

·         Iraq gives British Petroleum final green light to redevelop Kirkuk oilfields

·         Nearly 200,000 Palestinians perform prayers at Al-Aqsa Mosque

·         Is US pressure on Iraq over reliance on Iranian electricity a blessing in disguise?

·         Aoun calls on French envoy to pressure Israel

·         Erbil: commemorating “Laylat al-Qadr”

·         Junior Ramadan Football League concludes in Sana'a districts

·         Under HM King's patronage, 111 male winners awarded in Bahrain Holy Quran Grand Prize

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Arab World

·         How Saudi charities amplify Ramadan’s generosity

·         New initiative launched to boost agroforestry in Saudi Arabia

·         Ithra to host three-day Eid Al-Fitr festivities

·         Smart solutions make life easier for growing pilgrim numbers at Grand Mosque

·         Haramain High-Speed Railway transports highest number of passengers in a single day since its launch

·         Makkah Grand Mosque's skyline seen without cranes for first time in 15 years

·         Discover Al Muftaha: Abha’s iconic cultural destination this Ramadan

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Europe

·         'Right wing extremist' claims he was preparing for a Russian invasion not mosque attack

·         Islamophobia Working Group discriminates against Christians

·         Russia says sanctions must be lifted before Ukraine maritime ceasefire can start

·         'Mum was killed but her name protects other women'

·         Tougher rules needed to protect young people online, report warns

·         Plymouth chef was kidnapped from restaurant, beaten and blackmailed

·         Oldham Imam told 'no one will find you' during kidnapping

·         Yobs booted police van and targeted mosque in 'disgusting scenes' of violence

·         Police get new powers to protect places of worship

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North America

·         Trump announces 25% tariffs on car imports to US

·         'They invited me - now they're attacking me': Signal chat journalist speaks to BBC

·         NATO chief triggers confusion over ‘dead’ American troops

·         Three sensitive messages from Yemen strike Signal chat unpacked and explained

·         Endicott Islamic Center hosts Eid al-Fitr celebration

·         Wylie library showcases Ramadan display, offering Muslim community space to share culture

·         Shapiro announces $5M grant to Philly Muslim community center

·         CAIR-MA Condemns ICE Abduction of Tufts Student Rumeysa Ozturk

·         Four US soldiers missing for two days in Lithuania

·         Trump official visits mega-jail holding deported Venezuelans

·         Six lingering questions about Trump officials' Signal chat

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Africa

·         Islamic Scholar Calls For Heart Of Kindness Among Political Elites

·         FG declares 2-day public holiday for Eid-el-Fitr 

·         Scholars Weigh In On Political And Social Implications

·         Sallah: Fed Govt declares Monday, Tuesday public holidays

·         Over 328 performs I’tikaf at Alausa Secretariat Mosque

·         Ramadan: Sen Wamakko Facilitates Release Of 60 Inmates

·         Rivers NASS Lawmakers Visit Amaewhule, Urge Fubara To Obey Supreme Court Ruling

·         Obasanjo: You Turned Yourself To Kingmaker, Demigod – Presidency Fires ‘Grandfather Of Hypocrisy’

·         Niger's junta, Abdourahamane Tchiani sworn in as transitional president for a period of five years

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Southeast Asia

·         Anwar meets with Hindu temple committee after mosque groundbreaking ceremony, following amicable resolution to relocation dispute

·         PM Anwar hopes MADANI Mosque can serve as community centre for Muslims, city dwellers

·         Selangor Sultan orders regular monitoring to prevent revival of deviant teachings

·         A beacon of interfaith harmony: Buddhist monastery offers free meals during Ramadan amid unrest

·         KL Archbishop thanks Islamic groups for Pope Francis prayers, calls for unity and peace

·         LHDN offices closed on March 31 and April 1 for Aidilfitri

·         When Ramadan brings out the worst in some people, and the best in others — Zuhairy Fauzy

·         No RM2m compensation, Zaliha warns against provocation, don’t incite religious tensions

·         Tight security at Masjid Madani groundbreaking ceremony

·         Temple relocation resolution shows govt’s success in handling religious sensitivities – JKOM DG

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South Asia

·         President calls for adherance to the Holy Quran

·         Five Eid congregations scheduled at Baitul Mukarram National Mosque

·         Freedom fighters' reception goes awry after speaker allegedly distorts history

·         Running with hares, hunting with hounds

·         Honorary Commission in Army marking Independence & National Day

·         Polls just to put a party in power will be unacceptable

·         Russian LGP exports to Afghanistan rise 52% following EU sanctions

·         New Transport Terminals in Kandahar to Boost Infrastructure, Economy

·         Massive Infrastructure Push: Laghman’s 88 Projects Underway

Compiled by New Age Islam News Bureau

URL https://newageislam.com/islamic-world-news/wife-marriage-marriage-un-islamic/d/134994

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Allowing wife to dissolve marriage over husband’s second marriage un-Islamic: CII

March 26, 2025

Dr Muhammad Raghib Hussain chairs CII meeting in Islamabad on March 26, 2025. — APP

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Granting a first wife the right to dissolve her marriage if her husband remarries without her permission is un-Islamic, ruled the Council of Islamic Ideology (CII) on Wednesday.

It said any judicial ruling that permits such annulment contradicts Islamic teachings.

The ruling came as CII convened a meeting on Wednesday wherein members deliberated on a total of 19 agenda items.

The session was chaired by Dr Muhammad Raghib Hussain Naeemi, chairman of the council.

It was decided that premarital testing for thalassemia or other contagious diseases can be included in the Nikahnama (marriage contract) as an optional provision.

However, the decision to marry will remain solely at the discretion of both parties under Islamic law.

In the meeting, four experts from the Sindh Institute of Child and Neonatology were invited to present a briefing on the establishment of a human milk bank.

They provided detailed responses to 33 queries raised by the council members. Additional questions from the members were also addressed. The council decided to conduct an in-depth study on the matter and will present its final decision in the next meeting.

The council ruled that organ transplantation, particularly of the kidney and liver, is permissible as long as the donor’s life is not endangered.

It was decided that Islamic terms such as Salah (prayer), Ayah (verse), and Masjid (mosque) should be retained in their original Arabic form instead of being translated into English.

The council emphasised that scholars and intellectuals should raise awareness at their respective levels regarding the issue of electricity theft.

The council ruled that newly hired employees can be required to participate in the contributory pension system, but existing employees cannot be compelled to join it. Additionally, it stressed that pension funds must be entirely free from interest-based financial systems.

The council stressed that Zakat funds should be distributed to deserving individuals without unnecessary delays. However, if administrative procedures cause delays, these funds can be placed in profit-generating Islamic bank accounts. In the event of any financial losses, the government will be responsible for compensating them.

The council reaffirmed its previous stance that the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) Transgender Bill contains the same un-Islamic elements as the Transgender Act of 2018, which had been declared inconsistent with Islamic principles by the council and the Federal Shariat Court.

Additionally, the council expressed concerns over the bill’s inclusion of the Guru-Chela (mentor-disciple) concept, deeming it un-Islamic.

At the conclusion of the meeting, prayers were offered for the late mother of Chief of Army Staff General Syed Asim Munir.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to further research and deliberation on the discussed matters in future sessions.

Source:thenews.com.pk

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'Entity of concern': Modi govt slams USCIRF over proposal for sanctions on RAW, religious freedom report

27.03.25

A U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) handout image shows former Indian intelligence officer Vikash Yadav who has been charged by the U.S. for allegedly directing a foiled plot to murder a Sikh separatist and Indian critic in New York City, at an unknown location, in this undated handout image released on October 17, 2024.

Reuters

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India on Wednesday said the US Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) should be designated as an “entity of concern” after the outfit recommended targeted sanctions on RAW and a former official for his alleged role in a foiled plot to assassinate Sikh separatist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun in New York in 2023.

In its 2025 annual report, the USCIRF — a bipartisan US federal government agency — also alleged that religious freedom in India continued to shrink as attacks on and discrimination against religious minorities continued to rise. For the sixth year in a row, the USCIRF designated India as a “Country of Particular Concern (CPC)”.

External affairs ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said on Wednesday that the USCIRF’s “persistent” attempts to cast aspersions on India’s “vibrant multicultural society” reflected a “deliberate” agenda rather than a genuine concern for religious freedom.

New Delhi described the report as “biased and politically motivated” and said the efforts to “undermine” India’s standing as a beacon of democracy and tolerance would not succeed, adding the USCIRF should be designated as an “entity of concern”.

The USCIRF had recommended to the US government that “targeted sanctions” be imposed “on individuals and entities, such as Vikash Yadav and RAW, for their culpability in severe violations of religious freedom by freezing their assets and/or barring their entry into the United States”.

The US has charged Yadav, a former Indian government official, in the alleged foiled

plot to kill Pannun on American soil in 2023.

In its recommendation, the USCIRF also called for designating India as a CPC for engaging in and “tolerating systematic, ongoing and egregious religious freedom violations, as defined by the International Religious Freedom Act (IRFA)”.

This is the first CPC recommendation by the USCIRF under the second Trump administration and the state department will take a view on the report later this year.

Jaiswal said the report was a continuation of the USCIRF’s pattern of issuing “biased and politically motivated assessments”.

“The USCIRF’s persistent attempts to misrepresent isolated incidents and cast aspersions on India’s vibrant multicultural society reflect a deliberate agenda rather than a genuine concern for religious freedom,” he said.

“India is home to 1.4 billion people who are adherents to all religions known to mankind. However, we have no expectation that the USCIRF will engage with the reality of India’s pluralistic framework or acknowledge the harmonious coexistence of its diverse communities,” he said.

“Such efforts to undermine India’s standing as a beacon of democracy and tolerance will not succeed. In fact, it is the USCIRF that should be designated as an entity of concern,” Jaiswal said.

The USCIRF has separately recommended to the US Congress to reintroduce, pass and enforce the Transnational Repression Reporting Act of 2024 to ensure the annual reporting of acts of transnational repression by the Indian government targeting religious minorities in the US. It has also suggested a review assessing whether arms sales to India, such as MQ-9B drones under Section 36 of the Arms Export Control Act, may contribute to or exacerbate religious freedom violations.

plot to kill Pannun on American soil in 2023.

In its recommendation, the USCIRF also called for designating India as a CPC for engaging in and “tolerating systematic, ongoing and egregious religious freedom violations, as defined by the International Religious Freedom Act (IRFA)”.

This is the first CPC recommendation by the USCIRF under the second Trump administration and the state department will take a view on the report later this year.

Jaiswal said the report was a continuation of the USCIRF’s pattern of issuing “biased and politically motivated assessments”.

“The USCIRF’s persistent attempts to misrepresent isolated incidents and cast aspersions on India’s vibrant multicultural society reflect a deliberate agenda rather than a genuine concern for religious freedom,” he said.

“India is home to 1.4 billion people who are adherents to all religions known to mankind. However, we have no expectation that the USCIRF will engage with the reality of India’s pluralistic framework or acknowledge the harmonious coexistence of its diverse communities,” he said.

“Such efforts to undermine India’s standing as a beacon of democracy and tolerance will not succeed. In fact, it is the USCIRF that should be designated as an entity of concern,” Jaiswal said.

The USCIRF has separately recommended to the US Congress to reintroduce, pass and enforce the Transnational Repression Reporting Act of 2024 to ensure the annual reporting of acts of transnational repression by the Indian government targeting religious minorities in the US. It has also suggested a review assessing whether arms sales to India, such as MQ-9B drones under Section 36 of the Arms Export Control Act, may contribute to or exacerbate religious freedom violations.

plot to kill Pannun on American soil in 2023.

In its recommendation, the USCIRF also called for designating India as a CPC for engaging in and “tolerating systematic, ongoing and egregious religious freedom violations, as defined by the International Religious Freedom Act (IRFA)”.

This is the first CPC recommendation by the USCIRF under the second Trump administration and the state department will take a view on the report later this year.

Jaiswal said the report was a continuation of the USCIRF’s pattern of issuing “biased and politically motivated assessments”.

“The USCIRF’s persistent attempts to misrepresent isolated incidents and cast aspersions on India’s vibrant multicultural society reflect a deliberate agenda rather than a genuine concern for religious freedom,” he said.

“India is home to 1.4 billion people who are adherents to all religions known to mankind. However, we have no expectation that the USCIRF will engage with the reality of India’s pluralistic framework or acknowledge the harmonious coexistence of its diverse communities,” he said.

“Such efforts to undermine India’s standing as a beacon of democracy and tolerance will not succeed. In fact, it is the USCIRF that should be designated as an entity of concern,” Jaiswal said.

The USCIRF has separately recommended to the US Congress to reintroduce, pass and enforce the Transnational Repression Reporting Act of 2024 to ensure the annual reporting of acts of transnational repression by the Indian government targeting religious minorities in the US. It has also suggested a review assessing whether arms sales to India, such as MQ-9B drones under Section 36 of the Arms Export Control Act, may contribute to or exacerbate religious freedom violations.

https://www.telegraphindia.com/india/entity-of-concern-new-delhi-opposes-uscirf-over-sanctions-on-raw-religious-freedom-report/cid/2090967

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USCIRF accuses Modi of discrimination and calls out persecution of religious minorities, urges ban on RAW in the US

The United States Commission on International Religious Freedom in its annual report has alleged discrimination and persecution of minorities in India. The agency has also alleged that India’s foreign intelligence agency, The Research and Analysis Wing (RAW) in the US was involved in the killing of Sikh separatist and has called for its ban.

The US commission’s report released on Tuesday aims to give insights on religious freedom and makes policy recommendations for India. The commission is a US government advisory body that monitors the right to practice religion and recommends policies to the governments. The report details the attacks and discrimination minorities face in the country and notes that these attacks increased significantly in the year 2024.

The agency has accused the ruling party BJP and Prime Minister Narendra Modi of inciting Hindus against Muslims and other religious minorities via hate speech during elections last year. It said, “the BJP propagated hateful rhetoric and disinformation against Muslims and other religious minorities.”

Highlighting the religious freedom violations in the country, the agency called India a “country of particular concern.” it’s a that Vietnam should also be designated as a country of particular concern stating that the communist ruled Vietnam had stepped up in its efforts to regulate and control religious affairs.

However, Prime Minister Narendra Modi speaking at global forums has denied any discrimination against the minorities on several occasions. He stated in his address that the schemes brought forth by his government are beneficial and impactful for all communities. He said that religion does not matter to him when it comes to providing basic facilities like gas, electricity and water to every household in India.

In April last year Modi during his election rallies was widely criticized for calling Muslims as “infiltrators” and “those who have more children.”

“In the year 2024 religious freedom conditions in India continue to deteriorate as attacks and discrimination against religious minorities continue to rise,” reads the report.

The commission then urges the Indian government to take practical steps to protect the rights of minorities to practice religion freely.

The report also alleged that India has been involved against sikh separatists since 2023. It said, “India’s actions in the US and Canada against the sikh separatists in India since the year 2023 have created new tensions in the bilateral relations.”

From the past two years India’s alleged targeting of Sikh separatists in the US and Canada has strained relationship between India-US with Washington charging Vikas Yadav and ex- Indian intelligence Officer in a conspiracy. The report points this out and makes similar allegations on Vikas Yadav.

Dismissing the allegations by the agency on Wednesday India said that it is a “deeply biased and politically motivated assessment.”

Source:muslimmirror.com

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https://muslimmirror.com/uscirf-accuses-modi-of-discrimination-and-calls-out-persecution-of-religious-minorities-urges-ban-on-raw-in-the-us/

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Hamas spokesperson Qanoua killed in Israeli airstrike, Al-Aqsa TV reports

March 27, 2025

Palestinians make their way to flee their homes after the Israeli army issued evacuation orders, in Jabalia, in the northern Gaza Strip, on March 25, 2025. (REUTERS)

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CAIRO: Hamas spokesperson Abdel-Latif Al-Qanoua has been killed in an Israeli airstrike in northern Gaza, Hamas-affiliated media said early on Thursday, the latest group figure to be killed since Israel resumed its operations in the enclave.

Al-Qanoua was killed when his tent was targeted in Jabalia, the Hamas-run Al-Aqsa television said. The same strike wounded several people, while separate attacks killed at least six in Gaza City and one in southern Gaza’s Khan Younis, medical sources said.

Earlier this week, Israel killed Ismail Barhoum, a member of Hamas’ political office, and Salah Al-Bardaweel, another senior leader.

Both Bardaweel and Barhoum were members of the 20-member Hamas decision-making body, the political office, 11 of whom have been killed since the start of the war in late 2023, according to Hamas sources.

Last week, Israel ended a two-month-old ceasefire by resuming bombing and ground operations, increasing pressure on Hamas to free the remaining hostages in its captivity.

At least 830 people, over half of them children and women, have been killed since Israel resumed major military strikes in Gaza on March 18, according to Gaza’s health ministry.

Israel and Hamas accused each other of breaching the truce. It had broadly held since January and offered respite from war for the 2.3 million inhabitants of Gaza, which has been reduced to rubble.

Hamas, which still holds 59 of the 250 or so hostages Israel says the group seized in its October 7, 2023 attack, accused Israel of jeopardizing efforts by mediators to negotiate a permanent deal to end the fighting.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said he ordered strikes because Hamas had rejected proposals to secure a ceasefire extension. He repeated threats on Wednesday to seize territory in Gaza if Hamas failed to release the remaining hostages it still holds.

Source:arabnews.com

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https://www.arabnews.com/node/2594982/middle-east

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Over 3 million worshipers offer special prayers at Two Holy Mosques on 27th night of Ramadan

March 27, 2025

In a new record, the Grand Mosque received over 4 million and 200 thousand worshippers on Wednesday night. (SPA)

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MAKKAH — More than three million worshipers thronged the Grand Mosque in Makkah and the Prophet’s Mosque in Madinah to offer Isha and special night prayers of Taraweeh and Qiyamullail on the 27th night of Ramadan on Wednesday, which is widely believed to be Laylatul Qadr, the Night of Power.

All the floors of the Grand Mosque and the Prophet’s Mosque and their courtyards were full of worshipers, and the rows of worshipers spilled over to the streets of the central Haram areas.

In an unparalleled spiritual ambience that the fasting month has offered, the faithful engaged in supplications, seeking Laylatul Qadr and the infinite blessings and forgiveness from Almighty God. The Holy Qur’an was revealed to the Prophet (peace be up on him) in the Night of Power which is better than a thousand months.

At the Grand Mosque, worshipers attended the Isha and special night prayers of Taraweeh and Qiyamullail that ended with the special supplication, led by Sheikh Abdurahman Al-Sudais, head of the General Authority for the Care of the Affairs of the Two Holy Mosques.

The tears of pilgrims and worshippers in the Grand Mosque mingled with the rain of mercy that fell heavily in the courtyards of the Holy Mosque. The faithful performed their prayers under the rain, raising their hands to the sky in supplication to God, seeking His mercy and forgiveness.

The General Authority for the Care of the Affairs of the Two Holy Mosques has implemented a foolproof operational plan and integrated services for the faithful. The authority has mobilized all its human and mechanical resources to facilitate the smooth and orderly flow of pilgrims and worshipers within the Grand Mosque in coordination with all the concerned agencies and security forces.

There was a steady influx of Umrah pilgrims and worshippers arriving at the Grand Mosque and its courtyards from the early morning hours. All areas within the mosque, including its corridors, floors, rooftops, courtyards, basement, and the Third Saudi Expansion, were filled with worshippers, enabling them to perform their prayers and rituals in an environment of faith, serenity, security and peace.

Copies of the Holy Qur’an in multiple languages were accessible, cleaning efforts were intensified, and the operation of loudspeakers, ventilation fans, and air-conditioning systems were optimized for the comfort of worshippers. Golf carts, regular carts, and electric carts were provided through the "Tanaqol' app, operating efficiently according to systematic plans.

The Makkah region's health affairs department enhanced its services by deploying medical centers within the Grand Mosque and its courtyards, ensuring that pilgrims received the necessary medical care when needed.

More than 400 scouts from the Saudi Arabian Boy Scouts Association contributed to the crowd management inside the Grand Mosque. This effort was made in cooperation with the General Authority for the Affairs of the Two Holy Mosques, the Makkah Health Cluster, and Public Security.

They guided those lost, directed pilgrims to their destinations, managed crowds, facilitated movement, and reduced congestion, especially in densely populated areas. This helped enhance the comfort of pilgrims and facilitate the smooth performance of their rituals.

The scout units also provided qualitative support to the healthcare sector, supporting health centers and hospitals in Ajyad and the Grand Mosque by guiding patients and providing emergency support to medical teams, as part of integrated efforts aimed at improving the level of services provided to pilgrims.

At the Prophet’s Mosque, the prayer halls were filled early in the morning with worshippers from within and outside the Kingdom. The General Authority for the Care of the Affairs of the Two Holy Mosques, in coordination with various departments and relevant authorities, has been keen to fully prepare the Prophet’s Mosque and put in place all necessary arrangements to maintain the safety and comfort of the faithful.

This included getting ready of prayer areas with carpets, purification and cleaning services, fumigation and perfuming, provision of Zamzam water to worshippers, environmental protection services, care for facilities and restrooms, and the provision of trolley services and a monitoring and reporting system to achieve a high level of satisfaction with the services provided to visitors to the mosque.

Source:saudigazette.com.sa

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https://saudigazette.com.sa/article/650470/SAUDI-ARABIA/Over-3-million-worshipers-offer-special-prayers-at-Two-Holy-Mosques-on-27th-nbspnight-of-Ramadan

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Erdogan’s arbitrary Islamist rule is destabilising a vital NATO member

GERALD WARNER

MAR 26, 2025

Associated Press / Alamy Stock Photo 3A4RW6Y

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The increasingly serious disturbances in Turkey, a NATO member state, which have brought the future of Turkish strongman Recep Tayyip Erdogan into question, in the view of some commentators, furnish fresh cause for anxiety in yet another sensitive geopolitical “hotspot”. That said, Erdogan is an accomplished survivor who has ducked and weaved his way through past crises, so it is perfectly possible he will similarly overcome his present difficulties. Whether NATO and the West would be better off with, or without, Erdogan is another question.

The latest unrest was provoked by the government’s arrest of Ekrem Imamoglu, the popular mayor of Istanbul, along with more than 1,000 other individuals, on 19 March. The mayor has been caught up, on the face of it, in a government drive against corruption and links to terror groups. But the real reason for his arrest, in the eyes of most observers, is that he is the candidate best placed to defeat Erdogan in the 2028 elections. If, however, he is convicted and sent to prison, that electoral threat to Erdogan would be removed.

The move is so transparent that European countries have denounced the arrest as an affront to democracy. Mayor Imamoglu’s opposition Republican People’s Party (CHP) has mobilised many thousands of anti-Erdogan demonstrators in the streets of Istanbul, with the protests spreading to the capital Ankara. The question being asked by dissidents and foreign governments alike is: has Erdogan gone too far this time?

If he has, what will be the outcome? Could the protests escalate into a full-blooded uprising, aimed at the violent overthrow of Erdogan? At present, that seems unlikely, with the opposition even announcing that the demonstrations will end next week. Erdogan’s security forces are well-equipped and ruthless. So, the fall of Erdogan, in the short term, does not seem likely.

On the other hand, in urban protests against oppressive security forces, a few misdirected bullets could create martyrs and provoke popular rage, leading to an uncontrollable surge of popular violence, as has frequently been seen, in many countries, throughout modern history. From Erdogan’s viewpoint, the existence of the protests reduces his authority and places a question mark over his political future. It is a safe bet that the strongman, who has temporised his way out of past difficulties, will be searching for a face-saving means of effecting a limited retreat, to disembarrass himself of popular protests discrediting his regime in images seen around the world.

But here he has painted himself into a corner. The release of at least a certain proportion of those arrested, in other circumstances, could defuse the situation; but the figurehead of public protest is Imamoglu. If Erdogan were to release him now, he would emerge from confinement as a popular icon and symbol of effective resistance to the regime. It would make him a totemic figure who would almost certainly defeat Erdogan in 2028. By a supreme irony, Erdogan would have awarded his most dangerous opponent the celebrity that would lift him and his CHP movement over the bar at the elections and end Erdogan’s rule.

The alternative scenario is to keep Imamoglu under arrest and bring him to trial, hoping that sufficiently persuasive evidence of corruption can be presented to alienate public support. But, in that event, the CHP will scream from the rooftops that the evidence is fabricated and Imamoglu is innocent (a rare condition among Turkish politicians). Yet even this thorny dilemma does not represent the plenitude of Erdogan’s problems. The Turkish president is an eccentric character; in certain respects, there is an irresistible parallel with Donald Trump.

Source:reaction.life

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https://www.reaction.life/p/erdogans-arbitrary-islamist-rule

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Donald Trump is the furthest thing from the ‘fascist’ his enemies brand him

25 Mar, 2025

The ubiquitous and ongoing critique of Donald Trump from the so-called social democratic ‘left’ in America – namely that he is a ‘fascist’ – is not only inaccurate, but completely fails to comprehend Trump as a unique modern political phenomenon.

Trump is not a fascist.

Fascism emerged in the 1920s as an historically specific internationalist revolutionary political movement that sought to overthrow both liberal democracy and communism, while maintaining and preserving the capitalist economic order.

As Hungarian historian and philosopher Gyorgy Lukacs pointed out in the epilogue to his book ‘The Destruction of Reason’, published in 1953, it is simply impossible for fascist ideology to serve as a dominant ideology in Europe or America in the post-World War II era.

This is not to say that ruling liberal democratic ideologies in the West cannot manifest deeply illiberal components. Nor is it to maintain that such ideologies cannot generate authoritarian counter-ideologies that can become influential and dominant.

Even in the 1930s, fascism remained a subterranean political movement in those Western countries (America, Britain, and France) in which liberal democracy had become the prevailing political ideology in the 19th century and after World War I.

Germany and Italy were exceptions – nation states that were formed in authoritarian fashion in the latter half of the 19th century – in which liberal democracy had failed to prevail as it had elsewhere in the West.

Trump is not a fascist because, unlike fascism, ‘Trumpism’ does not constitute a coherent ideology. In fact, there is a sense in which Trump is not really an ideological politician at all.

The contrast with fascism is stark.

National Socialism was a political movement that was based upon a coherent ideology – an amalgam of Volkish racial anti-Semitism and the 19th century liberal ideology of eugenics. Hitler sought to bring about revolutionary social and political change in Europe – and beyond – by biological means and military aggression.

Trump is quite incapable of formulating such a program – and, even if he did, it would hold little appeal for the American electorate. Nor is Trumpism an aggressive expansionist ideology in terms of foreign policy, let alone a genuinely revolutionary one.

It is, therefore, patently absurd for liberal democratic politicians and their sycophantic allies in the Western media to continue to brand Trump as a fascist.

Such a false categorization of Trump reveals the fundamentally ahistorical mentality of Trump’s critics, and – more importantly – their intrinsic inability to engage in any kind of meaningful critique of the expansion of American global hegemony since 1945 and its corrupting consequences internally in America.

In this regard, Trump’s critics lack the integrity and insight of principled 1960s American critics of the expanding American Empire – such as Barrington Moore Jr, William Appleman Williams, and Gore Vidal – as well as like-minded contemporary American critics like John Mearsheimer and Jeffrey Sachs.

This brings us back to Trump and his foreign policy.

Unlike his neocon predecessors (both Democrat and Republican alike, and it should not be forgotten that the neocon movement started within Jimmy Carter’s Democratic Party, not with George W. Bush) Trump is an isolationist – isolationism being an extremely strong trend in American politics for over 250 years.

The American founding fathers wisely warned against America becoming involved in “foreign entanglements” – because they had firsthand experience of how the British Empire had oppressed its colonial subjects.

They also understood how empire had corrupted and debauched internal British politics. Washington, Adams, and Jefferson all feared the consequences for the new American republic if, mutatis mutandis – in Edmund Burke’s telling phrase – “the breakers of the law in India became the makers of the law in England.”

Woodrow Wilson won a presidential election in 1916 as the politician “who had kept America out of the war.” He entered the war only after the German submarine campaign continued to sink American ships, and in order to save the West from the spectre of communism after the Russian Revolution in 1917.

The isolationist American Senate, however, subsequently refused to endorse Wilson’s internationalism, and vetoed America joining the League of Nations.

Likewise, Franklin D. Roosevelt only entered World War II after the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor in December 1941 – more than two years after the war had commenced.

Unfortunately, all post-war American presidents – until Trump – cast aside isolationism and firmly committed America to the global expansion of its empire. And, from the Carter regime onward, neocons have framed America’s expansionist and aggressive foreign policy.

Thus the Cold War, misguided wars in Vietnam, Iraq, and Afghanistan, and the America-driven and disastrously provocative expansion of NATO over the past 30 years.

Trump’s foreign policy stance constitutes a decisive break with the past.

Trump’s isolationism is evident in his firm determination to end the Ukraine conflict. He has also taken initial steps to end the reactionary Netanyahu regime’s brutal colonial oppression of Palestinians in Gaza and the West Bank. Whether this will succeed is, however, not yet clear.

And whether Trump’s isolationism extends to cutting deals with Iran and China is, at this stage, very much an open question.

What then of Trump’s domestic policies? Here Trump’s authoritarian and anti-liberal democratic tendencies are already apparent.

Trump is determined to reshape the Judiciary, the Department of Justice, the FBI, and any other domestic institution that does not cravenly support his domestic agenda. This should come as no surprise – Trump has always been openly contemptuous of liberal democracy, the Constitution, and the rule of law.

Trump has also moved very swiftly to dismantle authoritarian woke ideologies and their insidious consequences. He has also taken steps to put an end to the disastrous open borders immigration policy promoted and facilitated by Obama and Biden.

Whether Trump will succeed in successfully implementing his domestic agenda is not yet clear. Constitutional challenges to some of his executive orders are already before the courts, and more can be expected.

This week Trump called for the impeachment of those “crooked judges” who have ruled against some of his executive orders – provoking an unprecedented public rebuke from Supreme Court Chief Justice John Roberts.

It is thus already clear that Trump’s attempts to disregard the Constitution will lead to a serious constitutional crisis and an accompanying intensification of political conflict over the next four years.

How resilient liberal democratic institutions will prove to be under the Trump onslaught is difficult to predict – bearing in mind that many of these bodies have become weakened and corrupted under previous Democratic administrations.

One thing is clear however – the shattered Democrats are at present unable to mount any effective political resistance to Trump’s domestic or foreign policy programs. Not for nothing did Trump contemptuously taunt ‘Pocahontas’ Elizabeth Warren during his recent speech to Congress.

Kamala Harris has disappeared from sight, and the ultra woke Gavin Newsom recently recanted on his previous championing of transgender athletes in women’s sport. This, however, hardly constitutes a viable alternative political program to Trumpism.

The Democrats’ dilemma was highlighted recently when they criticized Trump for diminishing free speech in America by shutting down America’s propaganda agency, USAGM. These, however, are the same Democrats that have for decades championed an authoritarian ‘cancel culture’ that has diminished free speech and destroyed the careers of anyone courageous enough to oppose the Democrats’ woke ideologies.

Even more troubling for the Democrats is the fact that the American elites that once supported them are now changing political tack, and falling in behind the Trump regime – just as the liberal 19th century French elites made their peace with Louis Napoleon’s authoritarian regime. It should not be forgotten that Elon Musk and Robert Kennedy Jr. were once fervent Democrats who denounced Trump as a fascist.

How then are we to properly categorize Trump as a politician?

He is, of course, sui generis. Trump is first of all a modern celebrity politician – among whose ranks the inept Vladimir Zelensky must also be numbered. He is also a populist who captured the Republican Party after realizing (as previous third-party candidates had not) that capturing a major party was the only way that a third-party politician could ever become president.

Trump is thus a new kind of politician – a modern celebrity populist.

His predecessors include William Jennings Bryan and George Wallace, and he shares with them their ‘common man’ rhetoric, anti-intellectualism, contempt for liberal democracy and traditional conservatism, as well as their program of demonizing the East Coast and Washington elites. And, like his populist predecessors, Trump promises to miraculously revive a weakened and corrupt America.

Trump also has a great deal in common with Louis Napoleon. Elected president of the new French Republic in 1848, Louis Napoleon – being constitutionally barred from a second term as president – mounted a coup in 1851, dismissed parliament, and declared himself emperor. He ruled France in authoritarian and repressive fashion for the next 20 years – until military defeat in the Franco Prussian War led to the collapse of his regime.

Trump is also constitutionally barred from running for the presidency in 2028, and he may well attempt to overturn this legal impediment to a third term. In February 2025, he posted an image of himself wearing a crown with the caption “Long Live the King.”

But Trump’s modernity and the fundamentally changed nature of politics in America over recent decades render such historical comparisons otiose and misleading.

Trump became president in a decadent American society dominated by a mindless celebrity culture – in which there was no longer an educated elite or an educated public; in which liberal values and basic notions of decency had collapsed completely; and in which politics had descended into complete irrationality and become an unedifying and brutal spectacle akin to a celebrity-based television show.

These fundamental changes long predated Trump’s entry into politics, and without them he could not possibly have become president. Only in an America that had degenerated to this extent could populism in its new Trumpian form become a dominant political force.

Lukacs in the work cited above predicted that the expansion of the American Empire would result in internal cultural decadence and the corruption of American politics.

Lukacs highlighted various aspects of this, including a rise in juvenile delinquency – not for a moment imaging the school shootings that are now a regular occurrence in America. Nor could he possibly have imagined the degenerate nature of a popular culture that feted a ‘celebrity’ like Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs and continues to exploit his celebrity status as it belatedly seeks to destroy him.

Donald Trump is not a fascist.

He is a modern celebrity populist whose election as president is a symptom of the irreversible decadence and decline of contemporary American politics and American society more generally.

Social democratic critics of Trump, however, cannot accept this categorization of Trump because it entails admitting that American society has degenerated culturally and politically in recent decades – a state of affairs for which they themselves are primarily responsible.

Far easier to simply brand Trump a fascist, and ignore America’s ongoing decadence and decline.

Source:rt.com

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U.S. ambassador urges Nigerians to use religion to foster peace

MARCH 26, 2025

The U.S. Ambassador to Nigeria, Richard Mills Jr., has called on Nigerians to use religion to foster peace and empower the less privileged in the society.

The envoy made the call on Tuesday in Abuja at the breaking of fast (Iftar) and distribution of food to thousands of fasting Muslims and non Muslims at the Al-Habibiyyah Islamic Society (AIS).

He described Islam as a religion of peace which focuses on spirituality and helping the less privileged in society.

Mr Mills, the special guest of honour at the event, said his understanding of Islam since he served in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Iraq and Lebanon has shown that the religion promotes peace and encourages charity to the poor.

He charged other religious organisations and well-to-do Nigerians to always reach out to the poor in the society.

“My view of Islam is the one I’ve had for so many years since I served in Saudi Arabia as the US ambassador, in Iraq, Lebanon that Islam is a religion of peace.

“It’s a religion that put emphasis on spirituality, relationship to God and the involvement of charity and helping the less fortunate.

“And this again reminds us of the values shared by many of the world’s religions, Christianity and Judaism,” he said.

The former governor of Plateau, Sen. Simon Lalong, in his remarks, said that when the poor are well fed and empowered, there will be less crime in the society.

“As a Christian, one of the best portions of the Bible was when Jesus Christ was sharing meals like this to the needy.

“Today, it’s a privilege to be part of those sharing meals and people are smiling.

“A lot of them when I came I was asking myself I hope there would be no stampede.

“I like the orderliness displayed and everybody got meal, very rich meal. Sharing the meals to them shows service to humanity by the Organisation (Al-Habibiyyah),” he said.

The national Chief Imam of Al-Habibiyyah Mosque, Sheik Fuad Adeyemi, emphasised the need to use the Ramadan period to promote charity and world peace.

“We have to maintain world peace because that is what Islam stands for.

“We should imbibe the spirit of Ramadan because it is the month that fighting is completely prohibited,” he said.

The event was attended by officials from the U.S. embassy in Nigeria, diplomats, traditional rulers and Islamic scholars.

Source:gazettengr.com

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PM Anwar: Construction of Madani Mosque a ‘victory’ of wisdom and strength, not arrogance

By Kenneth Tee

27 Mar 2025

KUALA LUMPUR, March 27 — Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim today reminded Muslims the “victory” achieved over of a planned mosque on the site of a Hindu temple here along Jalan Munshi Abdullah is not one borne out of arrogance.

Instead, Anwar said the “victory” was only achievable through Muslims’ willingness to display the wisdom, strength and nobleness of Islam.

“This victory, as I remind my fellow Muslims, is not borne of sheer arrogance but our willingness to display wisdom and strength of Islam.

“To me, that is the true falah (victory), it is a victory when we can set a good example by displaying compassion, fairness and not hatred and being spiteful,” he said in his speech during the Masjid Madani groundbreaking ceremony at Jalan Munshi Abdullah here.

Source:malaymail.com

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Afghanistan excluded from US Security Threat List despite Alleged ISIS Presence

By Fidel Rahmati

March 26, 2025

The U.S. National Intelligence Agency recently published its annual threat assessment, notably omitting Afghanistan from the list of national security threats. Last year’s report highlighted Afghanistan and the Taliban multiple times, but this year’s report made no mention of them, raising concerns about the current U.S. assessment of regional security.

While the report highlighted terrorist threats, including Al-Qaeda’s presence in Iran, Somalia, and Syria, it did not mention the Taliban-controlled Afghanistan as a base for such groups. This omission is significant, considering the United Nations Security Council has confirmed that Al-Qaeda and ISIS continue to operate in Afghanistan under the Taliban’s protection.

The U.S. report also failed to address the Taliban’s policies toward women and their inability to manage Afghanistan’s humanitarian crisis, both critical issues noted in last year’s assessment. Despite the Taliban’s claims of suppressing ISIS-Khorasan, the group continues to conduct attacks in Afghanistan.

Furthermore, the report did not mention Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), which Pakistani officials allege operates from Afghanistan’s territory. The TTP has been involved in numerous attacks against Pakistan and poses a potential threat to regional stability.

The report highlighted the growing threat from ISIS-Khorasan, which has expanded its influence beyond Afghanistan into Central Asia, Iran, and even Russia. The group’s online presence continues to inspire attacks globally, including in the West, which raises concerns about the group’s expanding reach.

Al-Qaeda also remains a significant threat, with leaders reportedly in Iran using anti-Israel rhetoric to recruit and incite attacks on U.S. and Israeli targets. The report noted that Al-Qaeda continues to pursue operations against U.S. interests both domestically and abroad.

The U.S. intelligence community also expressed concerns about the increasing capabilities of the TTP, which has historical ties to Al-Qaeda. Although the group primarily targets Pakistan, its operations could destabilize the region further and affect global security.

The absence of Afghanistan from this year’s U.S. intelligence report is concerning, as there are ongoing allegations that the Taliban continues to harbor terrorist organizations like Al-Qaeda and ISIS-Khorasan. While the U.S. has shifted focus diplomatically, the region’s security challenges remain a significant concern. Global efforts to combat terrorism and stabilize Afghanistan are more critical than ever. Addressing these threats and ensuring peace in the region is essential for long-term stability.

Source:khaama.com

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Pakistan

 

Amnesty urges Pakistan not to expel Afghans

Amin Ahmed

March 27, 2025

ISLAMABAD: As the returns and deportations of Afghans decreased significantly in March, mainly due to the border closure, Amnesty International has called on Pakistan to withdraw the opaque ‘illegal foreigners’ repatriation plan targeting Afghan refugees.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, Amnesty, ahead of the March 31 deadline, said that the “arbitrarily and forcibly expelling Afghan nationals, including refugees and asylum seekers, will only add to their plight”.

“The Pakistani government’s unyielding and cruel deadline, which is less than a week away, to remove Afghan refugees and asylum seekers from two major cities, resulting in the deportation of many at risk, shows little respect for international human rights law, particularly the principle of non-refoulement,” Amnesty says in a strong-worded statement.

The exact content of the Pakistan government’s ‘Illegal Foreigners Repatriation Plan’ used for deportations has never been made public, but it comes amid a campaign to wrongfully demonise Afghan nationals as so-called criminals and terrorists.

“The opaque orders contravene the government’s own promises and repeated calls by human rights organisations to uphold the rights of Afghan refugees and asylum seekers,” said deputy regional director for South Asia at Amnesty International, Isabelle Lassee.

“It is disingenuous to frame Afghan refugees as a menace to the cities of Islamabad and Rawalpindi. The Government of Pakistan is only making a scapegoat of a community that has long been disenfranchised and fleeing persecution,” she said.

Speaking to Amnesty, human rights lawyer Moniza Kakar pointed out that forcing Afghan refugees to relocate even within Pakistan is devastating for families. “Many PoR card holders are people who’ve been here for decades, asking them to relocate means you’re asking them to leave homes, businesses, communities and lives they’ve built for years,” she said.

Meanwhile, Afghan Citizen Card (ACC) holders are to be immediately and unlawfully deported to Afghanistan, along with other undocumented refugees and asylum seekers, in violation of the principle of non-refoulement as set out in international human rights law. Afghan refugees due to be resettled in a third country will also be moved outside the cities, far from foreign missions who had promised visas and travel documents, and risk deportation due to the increased difficulty in coordinating their relocation with missions such as the US.

Lawyer Umer Gillani, who has challenged the government’s decision to deport refugees at the Supreme Court and Islamabad High Court, said that “the official notification [for the 31 March deadline] has not been issued under any particular law, it is just an executive instruction. This is not just against fundamental rights, but also against plain black letter law.”

Separately, the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) has said that both returns and deportations of Afghans decreased significantly during the first fortnight of March.

As recorded in the data collection period for March 1-15, the decrease was 67 per cent in returns and 50 per cent in deportation, compared to the previous reporting period of February 16-28.

Source:dawn.com

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Two security men martyred in D.I. Khan

Muhammad Irfan Mughal

March 27, 2025

DERA ISMAIL KHAN: Two personnel were martyred while three others sustained injuries during a crossfire triggered by a gun attack on a security convoy near Kulachi Morr, police said on Wednesday.

According to sources, unidentified militants attacked a security forces convoy on Dera-Daraban Road, resulting in a fierce exchange of fire between the two sides.

In the crossfire, two security personnel embraced martyrdom and three others were injured. The martyrs included Sepoy Wakeel and Lance Naik Nadeem. The injured personnel included Naik Zafar, Havildar Nadeem and Lance Naik Ibrahim.

No statement was issued by the Inter-Services Public Relations till filing of this report on Wednesday evening.

After receiving information about the gunfight, police and security forces were dispatched to the area and a search operation was launched.

Source:dawn.com

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Pakistani entities linked to China face US curbs

Agencies

March 27, 2025

• Action also affects units in UAE, Iran, South Africa

• Beijing slams ‘weaponisation’ of trade and technology

WASHINGTON: The United States has added dozens of entities to a trade blacklist on Tuesday, its commerce department said, in part to disrupt Beijing’s artificial intelligence and advanced computing capabilities.

The action affects 80 entities from countries including China, Taiwan, Pakistan, the United Arab Emirates, Iran and South Africa, with the department citing their “activities contrary to US national security and foreign policy.”

Those added to the “entity list” are restricted from obtaining US items and technologies without government authorisation.

“We will not allow adversaries to exploit American technology to bolster their own militaries and threaten American lives,” said US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick.

Beijing condemned the blacklisting of its firms, accusing Washington of “weaponising” trade and technology in a “typical act of hegemonism”.

“We urge the US side to stop generalising the concept of national security… and stop abusing all kinds of sanctions lists to unreasonably suppress Chinese enterprises,” foreign ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun said at a daily news conference.

China would take “necessary measures” to defend its firms’ rights, Guo added.

The US has added six subsidiaries of Inspur Group, China’s leading cloud computing and big data service provider, and dozens of other Chinese entities to its export restriction list.

The Inspur units were listed for contributing to the development of supercomputers for the Chinese military, the US commerce department said in a posting.

The Inspur units are among about 80 companies and institutes added to the export control list. Over 50 are based in China, while others are in Taiwan, Iran, Pakistan, South Africa and the United Arab Emirates.

The listings are intended to restrict China’s ability to develop high-performance computing capabilities, quantum technologies and advanced AI, and impede China’s development of its hypersonic weapons programme.

China’s foreign ministry, in response to an enquiry on Wednesday, condemned the US move and said the country will take necessary measures to safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese enterprises.

The Chinese embassy in Washington said it firmly opposed “these acts taken by the US and demand that it immediately stop using military-related issues as pretexts to politicise, instrumentalise and weaponise trade and tech issues.”

US commerce official Jeffrey Kessler said the administration aims to prevent “US technologies and goods from being misused for high performance computing, hypersonic missiles, military aircraft training, and UAVs (drones) that threaten our national security.”

When Inspur Group was placed on the list in 2023, executives from AMD and Nvidia were questioned about their dealings with the company. At the time, chip industry insiders and their advisers said firms were trying to assess whether they had to halt supplying Inspur’s subsidiaries.

Reuters could not immediately determine whether the US companies continued to do business with the subsidiaries.

Nvidia declined to comment, and AMD did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Chinese firms Nettrix Information Industry Co, Suma Technology Co and Suma-USI Electronics are among the other companies added to the list. The US said they were added for helping develop Chinese exa-scale supercomputers, which can process vast amounts of data at very high speeds and conduct large-scale simulations.

The companies also provided manufacturing capabilities to Sugon, also known as Dawning Information Industry Co, a computer server manufacturer added to the Entity List in 2019 for building supercomputers used by the military, the US said.

Source:dawn.com

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Asif backs Nawaz's role in resolving Balochistan issue

By Web Desk

March 26, 2025

ISLAMABAD: Defence Minister Khawaja Asif said on Wednesday that Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) President Nawaz Sharif could play a role in addressing the Balochistan issue after Eid ul Fitr.

Speaking on Geo News programme 'Capital Talk', Asif said, “Nawaz has shown willingness to engage on this matter. However, he is currently following medical advice to rest and may take an active role after Eid.”

His statement follows shutter-down strikes in various cities of Balochistan and protest in Karachi over the recent arrests of BYC leadership and a crackdown on its sit-in in Quetta.

BYC chief organiser Dr Mahrang Baloch and 16 other activists were arrested from their protest camp at Quetta’s Sariab Road on Saturday, a day after they claimed that three protesters died due to police action.

Mahrang among 150 individuals, including prominent leaders from the BYC, are facing charges encompassing various serious offences such as terrorism, incitement to rebellion, and murder.

A first information report (FIR), lodged at the Saryab Police Station on Saturday, include violations of Sections 7 and 11W of the Anti-Terrorism Act, as well as 16 sections of the Pakistan Penal Code.

Speaking during today's programme, the defence minister said that any decision regarding Balochistan must be made with the consultation of traditional Baloch leadership. He stressed that globally, conflicts are resolved through dialogue, and a similar approach should be adopted for Balochistan.

Responding to a question about police treatment of protesters in Karachi, he admitted that arrests must be made according to the law, and all matters should be settled through negotiations.

Asif pointed out that grievances in Balochistan date back to 50 years and require meaningful engagement.

The defence minister added that Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti should spearhead the negotiation process, while former Balochistan chief minister Dr Abdul Malik Baloch could play a crucial role in facilitating dialogue.

'Afghanistan'

When questioned about Afghanistan, Asif expressed concern over the deteriorating situation since his visit to Kabul nearly two years ago. He stressed that Pakistan and Afghanistan should take extraordinary measures to improve bilateral relations.

“I visited Kabul about one and a half years ago, and the discussions took place in a positive environment. However, since then, the situation has only worsened, which is unfortunate,” Asif stated. He reiterated Pakistan’s desire to maintain stable and friendly ties with Afghanistan without any rifts.

Commenting on security concerns, Asif noted that recent terrorist incidents in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa had links to Afghanistan. “Many terrorists have been eliminated, and a significant number of them were Afghan nationals,” he claimed.

He also pointed out that a large segment of the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) is currently based in Afghanistan.

The defence minister stressed that both governments must take decisive and exceptional actions to address these security challenges and prevent further deterioration of relations.

Journalists' arrest

In response to a question regarding the Federal Investigation Agency's (FIA) action against journalists, Asif noted that there is a toxic environment in the country, and social media has played a major role in fueling it.

He emphasised that political criticism should be based on ideological differences rather than personal attacks.

Expressing concern over online harassment, the minister condemned the practice of targeting opponents’ families. “It is inappropriate to drag mothers and sisters into political rivalries on social media,” he said.

Regarding the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (Peca), the minister stated that while the law exists, the government must be mindful of its implications and ensure that it is not misused for political purposes.

Source:thenews.com.pk

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Only drinking water available amid unprecedented shortage

March 27, 2025

• Irrigation experts unable to plan water supplies for whole season in view of uncertainty

• Irsa advisory committee to review situation again in May

ISLAMABAD: With Kharif season starting in a few days, fears of an unprecedented water shortage are making it difficult for irrigation experts to plan water supplies for the entire season.

“There is no water in dams, river flows have plunged and fewer snow deposits on mountains are not promising improved flows,” an official told Dawn.

This will have very serious repercussions for crop output, he said. As a consequence, a meeting of the Advisory Committee of the Indus River System Authority (Irsa) decided on Wednesday to make only “drinking supplies” for one month, April, and then review the situation.

This is a very rare event that water regulator has started water discharge parameters on a monthly basis, although past precedents are there for water allocations in three parts during a season.

The meeting noted that because of no storage in any of the three storages, water discharges at rim-stations stood at 51pc shortfall and went beyond 60pc while reaching provincial canal heads.

“The Irsa Advisory Committee (IAC) duly accounting the unclear climatical parameters and keeping in view the summer 2025 weather outlook presented by Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD), approved the water availability only for the month of April 25 with 43pc system shortfall,” said an official statement, adding that the water situation would again be reviewed in the first week of May.

The IAC meeting, which was presided over by Irsa chairman and member from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Sahibzada Mohammad Shabbir, was held to approve the Kharif anticipated water availability criteria from April 1 to Sept 30. All Irsa members, chief engineering adviser, provincial irrigation secretaries and senior officials attended the meeting.

The meeting reviewed the Rabi 2024-25 (Oct-Mar) system operation and showed satisfaction over the overall seasonal close at 18pc shortages till March 20 against the anticipated shortages of 16pc.

The PMD highlighted that below normal rain and above normal temperatures especially across northern and southern tips of the country were forecasted by local and global climate models for the months of April, May and June, the official statement pointed out, adding that PMD also reported winter snowfall in the catchments of Indus and Jhelum was recorded as 26.8 inches against the normal of 49.7 inches — i.e. 31pc less and inflows into the rim-station rivers would also be less than normal.

Both Sindh and Punjab agreed to have water allocations only for the month of April to take advantage of its lead demand and then review the situation again. However, Sindh registered its objection to the water distribution under the controversial 3-tier water distribution formula and demanded that water shares should be worked out on para-2 of the Water Accord. In that case, water shortage was estimated to go beyond 55pc for April.

The Kharif cropping season starts in April and lasts until September. Rice, sugarcane, cotton, maize, and mash are some of the key crops of the season.

Source:dawn.com

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PTI slams govt for not allowing Aleema to visit Imran in jail

Ikram Junaidi

March 27, 2025

ISLAMABAD: The PTI has condemned the government for barring party founder Imran Khan’s family from meeting him at Adiala jail, disregarding court orders and violating his constitutional and fundamental rights, while allegedly holding him in solitary confinement in a death cell.

Mr Khan’s sister Aleema Khan and other family members reached the jail but were not allowed to meet him on Tuesday despite the directive of the Islamabad High Court (IHC) to allow family members’ meeting with the incarcerated ex-premier on Tuesdays and party leaders on Thursdays.

On Monday, a three-judge bench of the Islamabad High Court had restored visitation rights of the PTI founder twice a week, allowing family and political workers to visit him in jail.

However, PTI Central Information Secretary Sheikh Waqqas Akram, in a statement on Wednesday, demanded that judges should not merely pass remarks and issue orders for public consumption but should also ensure their execution in true spirit. He urged them to hold high-ranking officials accountable for making a “mockery of the judiciary and the justice system” through their constant and deliberate disregard of clear directives.

He said the government had paralysed and rendered state institutions redundant by installing “handpicked favourites”, whose orders were routinely ignored and blatantly disregarded by the authorities without any fear of accountability.

Mr Akram expressed the worries that flouting court orders had become the new normal in the country, causing people to lose trust in the judicial system, which is an alarming and dangerous trend. He, therefore, stressed that the courts must ensure strict enforcement of their rulings, allowing uninterrupted meetings with Mr Khan and facilitating his phone conversations with sons, along with other entitlements as per his status and jail manuals.

The PTI leader pointed out that the glaring governance gaps existed in the country because “rejected” individuals were once again given the reins in total disregard to the real mandate given by the people of Pakistan.

He also condemned the arrests of PTI workers, leaders, Baloch women, and journalists, stressing that a state did not become strong by usurping fundamental rights. He demanded that all political prisoners should be instantly released. He said only the PTI founder could pull the country out of the prevailing quagmire of problems.

Source:dawn.com

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Perturbed at delays, Imran moves IHC for early decisions

Malik Asad

March 27, 2025

• Lawyers say hearings can’t be cancelled without legal justification

• High court issues notices on PTI leaders’ petition against JIT summons

• Ex-PM asks authorities to resolve Afghan issue on table instead of battlefield

ISLAMABAD: Former Prime Minister Imran Khan has approached the Islam­abad High Court (IHC) over repeated delays in cases against him, including the Toshakhana case, expressing concerns over the prolonged adjournments.

His legal team, comprising Barrister Salman Safdar, Qausain Faisal Mufti and Arshad Tabrez, filed a petition questioning the repeated postponements. They argued that hearings could not be cancelled without legal justification and that the accused must be present in court.

The petition noted that the Toshakhana case, concerning allegations of unlawfully retaining and selling state gifts — including an expensive Bulgari jewellery set — was set to be heard at Adiala Jail but was unexpectedly moved to the Judicial Complex in Islamabad.

The hearing was then adjourned until April 14 without any proceedings. The petition noted that previous hearings on Feb 27 and March 11 were similarly delayed.

Speaking to Dawn, Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi’s spokesman Niazullah Khan Niazi said Mr Khan has raised serious concerns about the legal delays affecting his cases across the country. He pointed out that the Lahore High Court (LHC) bench hearing bail applications related to the May 9, 2023, cases was also dissolved.

Mr Niazi also accused jail authorities of violating the IHC’s larger bench order by obstructing access to Mr Khan.

He said that PTI’s General Secretary Salman Akram Raja had submitted a list of six individuals for jail visits, but authorities only permitted four — Mr Raja, Zaheer Abbas, Mr Niazi himself and Naeem Panjhuta — while denying access to senior lawyers Hamid Khan and Uzair Bhandari. He said the PTI’s legal team would move a contempt of court petition before the large bench against the jail authorities.

Imran slams govt policies

Mr Niazi added that Imran Khan had criticised the Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) government for allegedly toeing the Biden administration’s policies on Afghanistan, which, according to Mr Khan, have escalated unrest in Pakistan.

Mr Khan urged the authorities to resolve this issue on the table instead of on the battlefield.

Mr Niazi said that the PTI founder also asked the authorities to involve genuine representatives of Balochistan to end the unrest in the province.

IHC issues notices

Meanwhile, the IHC has issued notices to respondents in a petition challenging the summons issued to PTI leaders by a Joint Investigation Team (JIT).

Justice Raja Inaam Ameen Minhas, who presided over the hearing, issued notices to the interior secretary, the JIT and the Inspector General (IG) of Islamabad police, seeking their responses on the matter.

During the hearing, the petitioners’ lawyer contended that the JIT was illegally constituted under the Peca and that its leadership under the IG Islam­abad violated Section 30 of the law.

“The notification for the formation of the JIT, issued on July 26, is unlawful. The investigation should be led by an officer from the investigative agency, not the police chief,” the lawyer asserted.

Source:dawn.com

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https://www.dawn.com/news/1900567/perturbed-at-delays-imran-moves-ihc-for-early-decisions

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SHC issues notices on plea challenging canals project

Ishaq Tanoli

March 27, 2025

KARACHI: The Sindh High Court on Wednesday issued notices to the Indus River System Authority (Irsa) and others in a petition challenging the planned construction of new canals on the Indus River.

A grower of Sindh, Qurban Maitlo, moved the SHC against the appointment of federal member of Irsa Asjad Imtiaz Ali and stated that his appointment was made in clear violation of a policy decision as well as an earlier judgement of the SHC on the subject matter.

Citing the secretaries of establishment and water resources divisions, Irsa chairman, secretary of the Sindh irrigation department and federal member of Irsa as respondents, petitioner Qurban Ali Maitlo submitted that he was a grower in the lowest riparian area and has a vested interest in ensuring the fundamental rights enshrined in the Constitution.

Representing the petitioner, Barrister Zamir Ghumro argued that Irsa’s composition was illegal without its federal member being appointed from Sindh and it could not issue the water availability certificate for the construction of Cholistan and Thal phase II canals.

He submitted that Mr Ali was holding his position without lawful authority as the SHC had already ruled that federal member of Irsa must be from Sindh while the Supreme Court had also dismissed an appeal filed by the federal government against such order in 2021.

After a preliminary hearing, a two-judge bench of SHC headed by Justice Mohammad Faisal Kamal Alam put the respondents on notice with direction to file their comments till April 7.

The bench also issued notices to the Attorney General of Pakistan and the provincial law officer for next hearing.

The petitioner submitted that Irsa was established under the Irsa Act, 1992 with the mandate to regulate and monitor the distribution of water sources of the Indus River, in accordance with the Water Accord, 1991, among the provinces, while the authority would be comprised of five members with one from each province and the federal government nominating one member.

He also asserted that since Sindh had witnessed the drought conditions during 1999-2002, a policy decision was taken through an executive order in July 2000 that the federal member of Irsa must be from Sindh in order to safeguard the interests of the province which was the lowest riparian. The decision was taken in order to apply principle of proportionality as Sindh was major stakeholder of water having 42 per cent of water though reduced under 1991 Accord than the share provided in Sindh-Punjab Water Agreement 1945.

The petitioner further maintained that the federal member in question was appointed in 2019 and the same had not only been made in defiance of the policy decision but also against a judgment of the SHC handed down in May 2017 holding that the federal government was bound to comply with the executive order and appoint federal member of Irsa from Sindh.

He contended that due to the lack of proper representation of Sindh in Irsa, its decisions were biased and prejudicial to the interests of the province and the same was evident in its recent decision to construct the Cholistan and Thal canals phase-II, despite insufficient water availability in the Indus Basin while being the lowest riparian area, Sindh’s unique water requirements necessitated careful consideration and protection.

Consequently, the petitioner argued that the very existence of the Indus Delta, which was already facing an ecological disaster characterised by seawater intrusion, loss of mangrove forests, dwindling fisheries, and saltwater contamination of freshwater sources, was at the risk.

He asked the court to declare that the decisions made by Irsa including but not limited to the water availability certificate for construction of such canals as unconstitutional, illegal and void ab initio.

Source:dawn.com

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https://www.dawn.com/news/1900520/shc-issues-notices-on-plea-challenging-canals-project

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Rail services to & from Balochistan restart today

Saleem Shahid

March 27, 2025

QUETTA: Train services betw­een Quetta and the rest of the country will be restored from today (Thursday).

The announcement was made by Railways Minister Hanif Abbasi during a press conference on Wednesday.

Rail services were suspended after the hijacking of the Pesha­war-bound Jaffar Express in the Mashkaf area, earlier this month.

Mr Abbasi said the Jaffar Express would leave Peshawar on March 27, and depart from Quetta for its destination the next day. A special Eid train will also leave for Peshawar on March 29.

The minister was on a visit to Quetta along with Railways Chairman Mazhar Shah, ECO Amir Baloch and DS Quetta Imran Hayat.

Mr Abbasi also annou­nced that Bolan Mail, which ran twice a week between Quetta and Kara­chi, would operate on a daily basis, adding that all nine trains connecting Balochistan with the rest of the country will also be restored.

He said there were some security issues on train stations, but Pakistan Railways was taking steps to ensure safe journey.

He announced plans to recruit 500 personnel into railways police to strengthen security, adding that 70 per cent of the new appointments would be made from Balochistan in the first phase, while in the second phase 1,000 more people would be inducted into the force.

Referring to the Jaffar Express incident, he said, “It was a big tragedy, which was condemned across the world.”

Mr Abbasi said, “We know Baloch are not against Punjab and the people of Punjab. Just a few elements have spread hatred. The politics of hatred will never succeed.”

He stated that no railway official was involved in terrorism or facilitating the terrorists, adding that railway police and other employees had sacrificed their lives in line of duty.

He said that the family of the railway policeman, who laid down his life while protecting passengers, would be paid Rs5.2 million as compensation.

He also said that efforts were underway to make security system more effective.

Source:dawn.com

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https://www.dawn.com/news/1900566/rail-services-to-from-balochistan-restart-today

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Armaghan earned Rs17bn through phishing scams in three years, NA body told

Imtiaz Ali

March 27, 2025

• MNAs question police performance in Mustafa Amir murder probe

• Ask ANF what action it has taken against courier services said to be involved in supplying drugs

KARACHI: Armaghan Qureshi, the prime suspect in the Mustafa Amir murder case, had run phishing scams through his illegal call centre and made Rs17 billion over a period of three years, officials told members of a National Assembly committee on Wednesday.

The second meeting of the Sub-Committee of the NA’s Standing Committee on Interior was held at the Central Police Office (CPO) under the chairmanship of MNA Abdul Qadir Patel.

Committee members MNAs Syed Rafiullah, Nabeel Gabol and Khawaja Izharul Hassan, Inspector General of Police Ghulam Nabi Memon, city police chief, senior interior ministry officials and representatives of the Anti-Narcotics Force (ANF), Federal Investigation Agency (FIA), Excise Department and others attended the meeting.

They were given a detailed briefing on the murder case of Mustafa Amir, suspect’s alleged links to drug gangs, the role of police and other law enforcement agencies.

Media was not allowed to cover the proceedings of the committee.

Official sources told Dawn that an FIA representative briefed the committee on the financial crimes committed by the suspect.

He informed the meeting participants that the suspect had been running an illegal call centre for the last three years and had earned Rs17bn during this period.

He said that the money was deposited in 40 bank accounts, which were opened in the names of his employees.

Regarding his modus operandi, the official said that the suspect and his employees contacted foreign nationals over the phone, posing themselves as officials of American agencies. They deceitfully obtained information of their credit cards to steal their money.

Regarding the recovery of a large number of laptops from the suspect’s home, the meeting was informed that the laptops did not contain “specific data” used by his employees; however, “all relevant specific data” had been obtained from the laptop used by Armaghan.

The committee members asked the FIA to submit a list of all call centres in Karachi at the next meeting.

Concerns over law enforcers’ unsatisfactory performance

The committee members expressed concerns over the less-than-satisfactory performance of the police on several issues, including delays in the case, the raid on the suspect’s house, the case of a girl who was subjected to torture by the suspect and the failure to record his “confessional statement”.

The legislators also raised concerns about the alleged involvement of courier services in the supply of narcotics and wondered what action had been taken against them.

In response, an ANF official informed them that a report would be submitted in the next meeting.

The legislators also asked what action had been taken against an uncle of the suspect who is a serving police officer. They expressed surprise at how a lone individual had engaged the police for three hours during the raid.

Regarding the torture on the girl, the police replied that she was tortured by the suspect, received treatment at a private hospital in DHA, but did not visit the Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre for a medical check-up or report to the police as she did not want to pursue the case.

Regarding the presence of many weapons in the custody of the suspect, the police believed they were purchased online.

As for the “confessional statement,” the police contended that the accused had not “deviated” from his confession, but it would be presented as “evidence” in court. Moreover, the police argued that the accused had admitted to his “act.”

A source privy to the meeting said that when a police officer claimed that a crackdown had been launched against narcotics, resulting in the sale of weed being stopped, Lyari MNA Nabeel Gabol intervened by asking the officer to accompany him and see that narcotics were still easily available in Lyari.

The legislators asked the excise department to enhance their capacity and increase recruitment to control the business of narcotics. They also asked it to submit a list of high-end vehicles of the suspect.

A third and conclusive meeting of the NA body would be held after Eid.

Meanwhile, a spokesperson for the IGP said in a statement that the committee members appreciated the joint work, collecting concrete evidence and the investigation progress by the police and other law enforcement agencies.

The lawmakers directed for completing the work on Mustafa Amir Murder case and submitting its report to the NA while saying that its findings would be shared with the media.

Source:dawn.com

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https://www.dawn.com/news/1900522/armaghan-earned-rs17bn-through-phishing-scams-in-three-years-na-body-told

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PMD forecasts surge in temperatures in coming months

March 26, 2025

The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has anticipated surge in temperatures in the coming months, citing forecasts indicating mercury may rise by 3°C to 5°C above normal levels.

Speaking at a press conference, Chief Meteorologist Muhammad Afzal revealed that winter rainfall was recorded 42% below normal, with Sindh receiving 63% less rain, Balochistan 53%, and Punjab 41%.

The alarming decline in rainfall has pushed dams and water reservoirs to dead levels, raising concerns over water availability for agriculture and domestic use.

Afzal further cautioned that below-normal rainfall is expected in the northern regions, exacerbating the water crisis. The shortage could lead to crop failures, the spread of diseases, and a negative impact on wildlife. He urged the public to use water wisely to mitigate the crisis.

Major metropolitan areas will experience heatwave conditions due to the urban heat island effect, accelerating drought conditions.

The intense heat may also accelerate the melting of glaciers, increasing river flows temporarily but raising the risk of Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs) and flash floods in northern areas.

Pakistan typically receives 19.4% of its annual rainfall between April and June, but below-average rainfall is expected this year, which could contribute to groundwater depletion, particularly in rain-fed regions.

Additionally, cyclone formation over the Arabian Sea cannot be ruled out in May due to the rising sea surface temperatures.

During the Eid ul Fitr holidays, most parts of the country will experience hot and dry weather, with temperatures likely to remain 2°C to 3°C above normal.

In Karachi, daytime temperatures may rise by 3°C to 4°C above normal levels, adding to the discomfort for citizens.

A wet spell with rain, thunderstorms, and snowfall over mountains is expected in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan, Kashmir, and northern Punjab on March 26-27.

Areas such as Chitral, Dir, Swat, Kohistan, and Mansehra may receive moderate to heavy rainfall, while dust storms and thunderstorms are also likely over the plains of Punjab.

Heavy rainfall in northern areas could lead to flash floods in some regions, while windstorms, hailstorms, and lightning pose a risk to electric poles, trees, vehicles, solar panels, and standing crops. Landslides and slippery conditions may also affect mountainous areas.

The authorities and relevant stakeholders have been advised to implement precautionary measures to address the impacts of rising temperatures, heat waves, and water shortages.

Public awareness campaigns should be launched to inform communities about heatwave preparedness and water conservation strategies.

The Met Office has urged the public to stay hydrated, avoid unnecessary outdoor exposure, and conserve water to reduce the impact of the looming crisis.

Source:thenews.com.pk

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https://www.thenews.com.pk/latest/1295593-pmd-forecasts-surge-in-temperatures-in-coming-months

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FIA seeks court's approval to access Armaghan's Bitcoin trading platform

By Danial Syed

March 26, 2025

KARACHI: The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has sought court approval to access the Bitcoin trading platform linked to Armaghan Qureshi, the prime suspect in the Mustafa Amir murder case, as part of an ongoing money laundering investigation.

During the hearing on Wednesday, the FIA requested the court to issue orders for obtaining account details from the platform, citing that the suspect had created accounts under the names of his two employees.

The agency also urged the court to direct trading platforms to provide details of Armaghan’s accounts, transactions, trading history, and IP addresses.

Meanwhile, the court sought information from foreign cryptocurrency trading companies regarding the case.

Armaghan was booked in another case earlier; a first information report (FIR) was filed alleging his involvement in money laundering and fraud.

With the FIR registered on behalf of the government in the Anti-Money Laundering Circle, the FIA accused Armaghan of being involved in hawala-hundi, digital currency and other illegal activities.

Armaghan, who is currently in judicial custody, allegedly carried out the kidnapping and murder of Mustafa Amir after he went missing on January 6.

The whole case unravelled after Armaghan opened fire at a team of the Anti-Violent Crime Cell (AVCC) — a specialised unit of the Karachi police responsible for tackling cases related to murder and extortion — during a raid at his residence in Karachi's DHA earlier this month.

The deceased's body — found by police in a car near the Hub checkpoint on January 12 — was later exhumed and subsequently buried after an initial DNA profiling report confirmed that the mortal remains belonged to Mustafa.

Additionally, it has also been alleged that Armaghan was allegedly responsible for supplying hundreds of youth with drugs and also subjecting several girls and boys to torture.

Meanwhile, last week, a local court rejected Armaghan's request to record his confessional statement, citing concerns regarding his mental state.

The court's decision to reject Armaghan's plea for a statement under Section 164 of the Criminal Procedure Code, came after he reportedly vacillated between confessing and refusing to provide a statement in the court of judicial magistrate (South).

Monthly income in dollars

Meanwhile, the latest FIR against Armaghan, which includes money laundering allegations, claims that the suspect used to earn $300,000 to $400,000 each month via fraud.

The amount the FIR adds was then converted to digital currency, which was used to purchase vehicles owned by him.

With the FIR alleging that the suspect had opened bank accounts in the name of two of his employees, the FIA claimed that Armaghan's call centre was used to make fraudulent calls to the United States.

The calls were used to obtain critical information from US citizens, which then were used to fraudulently extract money from them which was eventually received by Armaghan.

Elaborating on Armaghan's illegal activities, the FIR alleges that the suspect established his illegal call centre in 2018 and was operating an organised fraud network.

Each person working at the call centre used to defraud five people daily repotedly.

Claiming that the suspect had sold five of his vehicles and currently owned three worth millions, the FIR adds that he had also established a company in the US with his father Kamran Qureshi — who is also in police custody — for hawala-hundi.

Source:thenews.com.pk

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https://www.thenews.com.pk/latest/1295552-fia-seeks-courts-approval-to-access-armaghans-bitcoin-trading-platform

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India

 

After restrictions during Holi, Police imposes new curbs on Eid in Sambhal

March 27, 2025

As Eid nears, Sambhal police have announced stringent laws on Eid prayer and use of loudspeakers. The Superintendent of Police announced that Eid prayers will only be allowed at allocated mosques and Eidgah laying complete prohibition of public prayers on roads and rooftops.

Additionally, more police personnel are set to be deployed during Eid alongside surveillance measures including CCTV and drones in “conflict-prone areas,” said officials.

Addressing a peace committee meeting on Wednesday held at sardar kootavali CO Anuj Chaudhary, known for his controversial remarks during Holi stated if you want to serve seviyan (vermicelli) on Eid you must also eat gujiya on Holi.

“We aim to bring peace to the place where we live so that everyone has faith in us. If you want to serve Eid seviyan, you will have to eat Holi’s gujiya too,” Chaudhary said during the meeting.

“They should eat gujiya and we should eat seviyan but the problem starts when one side is willing to cooperate while the other isn’t. That is when the brotherhood breaks down,” he added.

Earlier during Holi Chaudhary had faced backlash after stating that there are 52 Fridays in a year and Holi comes only once. If someone had problems with colours being thrown at them,they should rather stay in doors.

Additional Superintendent of Police ASP Shri Chandra announced, “Namaz will only be offered at traditional places; people won’t be allowed to gather unnecessarily on rooftops and the use of loudspeakers will be regulated to avoid any inconvenience.”

People have been ordered to maintain communal harmony during upcoming festivals like Eid, Navratri and ram navami. It is not allowed to offer prayer on the street and the use of loudspeakers will also be restricted from now on,” said Vandana Mishra, sub-divisional magistrate, affirming the issued directives.

Now with new laws imposed in Sambhal during Eid on Muslim raises questions about selective restriction on muslim religious practices and festivals, drawing objections from locals, activists and critics who view this as a step towards cornering and punishing only Muslims in a place that witnessed communal unrest.

Source:muslimmirror.com

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https://muslimmirror.com/after-restrictions-during-holi-police-imposes-new-curbs-on-eid-in-sambhal/

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'Will badly affect Muslims': Tamil Nadu assembly passes resolution against Waqf bill in state assembly, urges Centre to withdraw it

Mar 27, 2025

NEW DELHI: The DMK-led Tamil Nadu assembly on Thursday passed a resolution against the proposed Waqf bill in Parliament and urged the central government to withdraw it. Chief minister MK Stalin said that the bill would "badly affect minority Muslims".

Speaking in the state assembly, the CM said, "Union Government is trying to amend Waqf Bill, which will hinder the Waqf Board’s powers. This is hurting Muslim sentiments, and Union Government does not bother about it."

"People are living in religious harmony in India. The Constitution has provided rights for all people to follow their religion. The elected governments have the rights to protect it. The Assembly unanimously insists that the Union government should recall the Waqf Amendment Bill in 2024 for Waqf Act 1995, which will badly affect the minority Muslims to be withdrawn," he added.

Criticising the move as a "narrative based on religion", AIADMK national spokesperson Kovai Sathyan said, "Looks like DMK is in a hurry to set a narrative based on religion, language...the point here is, there was a JPC and what is the outcome of JPC, why the parties whose members are in JPC not challenging Waqf in the judiciary?...why there is a rush to pass a resolution in the Assembly?...trying to instigate people...for vote bank politics is highly condemnable"

This comes a day after the opposition created a ruckus in Bihar assembly over Waqf amendment bill.

The opposition raised slogans, calling for the bill's withdrawal and the complete implementation of the Sachar Committee's recommendations, which had highlighted the poor socio-economic conditions of Muslims.

The Waqf (Amendment) Bill is yet to be introduced in the Lok Sabha next, likely sparking another clash between the government and the opposition, as most opposition parties remain opposed to the legislation. The Cabinet has approved the proposed amendments, incorporating recent recommendations from the parliamentary panel, clearing the way for the bill to be tabled for discussion and passage.

Source:indiatimes.com

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https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/will-badly-affect-muslims-tamil-nadu-cm-mk-stalin-moves-motion-against-waqf-bill-in-state-assembly-urges-centre-to-withdraw-it/articleshow/119577184.cms

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Delhi HC refuses to stay city court order framing charges against Sharjeel Imam

ByShruti Kakkar

Mar 27, 2025

The Delhi high court on Thursday refused to stay the city court’s order framing charges against former Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) scholar Sharjeel Imam in the 2019 Jamia violence case.

The case stems from the 2019-2020 protests at Jamia Millia Islamia and Shaheen Bagh following passage of the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) in Parliament on December 11, 2019.

The 37-year-old student leader was arrested in January 2020 for his alleged role in fanning communal tensions during the anti-CAA protests. He has repeatedly denied the allegations, saying it was based on edited video clips.

On March 7, the city court had framed charges under various provisions of Indian Penal Code (IPC) including Section 109 (abetment of an offence), Section 120B (criminal conspiracy), Section 153A (promoting enmity between different groups on religious grounds), Sections 143, 147, 148, 149 (unlawful assembly and rioting), Sections 186, 353, 332, 333, 308, 427, 435, 323, 341 (various charges related to assault, obstruction of public servants, grievous hurt, and damage to property) and Sections 3/4 of the Prevention of Damage to Public Property Act.

A bench of Justice Sanjeev Narula passed the order after Imam represented by advocate Ahmad Ibrahim requested the court to stay the March 7 order, asserting that the matter was scheduled for further hearing before the city court on April 23. He further said that the order was erroneous since it was passed without due application of mind.

However, Justice Narula said that he would not stay the order without hearing the Delhi Police.

“I’m not staying any order right now. There is no question. I’ll issue notice in the petition,” justice Narula said to Ibrahim.

The court then issued notice in the plea and asked Delhi police to respond till April 24, the next date of hearing.

Imam had approached the high court against the city court’s March 7 order.

In the order, the city court had observed that Imam was not only an instigator but also one of the “kingpins” of the larger conspiracy to incite violence during the anti-Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) protests in Delhi in 2019.

Additional sessions judge Vishal Singh, presiding over the case at Saket Court had also described Imam’s speeches as “venomous,” aimed at pitting one religious community against another and inciting mass-scale disruption through unlawful means.

Judge Singh had observed that Imam systematically orchestrated inflammatory speeches across multiple locations, including Munirka, Nizamuddin, Shaheen Bagh and Jamia Nagar, in December 2019 and the same were intended to provoke the minority community against the government’s implementation of the CAA and National Register of Citizens (NRC).

In his petition, also argued by advocate Talib Mustafa, the 37-year-old student leader had asserted that the city court’s order was also ex-facie illegal since it not only fails to record any finding with regards to the ingredients under section 153A being met but also wrongly reads the speech dated December 13, 2019 in question and ignores the most relevant parts.

“The Ld. Trial Court has grossly erred in coming to the finding that mere invocation of Muslim unity by the petitioner in his speech would attract applicability of section 153A even in absence of no pitting up of two religious community/ groups against each other,” the plea stated.

Source:hindustantimes.com

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https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/delhi-hc-refuses-to-stay-city-court-order-framing-charges-against-sharjeel-imam-101743058337700.html

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Meerut: Hindu outfit leader booked for creating ruckus outside mosque, reciting Hanuman Chalisa

Mar 26, 2025

A Hindu outfit leader has been booked for reciting Hanuman Chalisa near a mosque inside the Cantonment area in Uttar Pradesh’s Meerut.

The police said that the action came as the man, identified as Sachin Sirohi, was disrupting communal harmony, PTI reported.

"Sachin Sirohi, who claims to be the national president of the All Bhartiya Hindu Suraksha Sansthan, has been booked along with some unidentified men under relevant sections of BNS," circle officer Santosh Kumar Singh of the Meerut police told PTI.

The officer further asserted that efforts are underway to arrest the accused.

Sirohi had also protested against AIMPBL rejecting Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2024, at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi on March 17.

"The country will run by the constitution. What is this drama being done by the Opposition? They should listen to the government. We have hope that PM Modi and Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi ji will bring this law," he had been quoted by ANI as saying.

There have been repeated incidents of ruckus outside mosques in different parts of the country, including Uttar Pradesh. Recently, the Sambhal area of the state saw violence over the demand for a temple being ‘restored’ in place of a mosque in the city.

According to the police report, a group led by Sachin Sirohi created a ruckus outside the mosque on Monday.

The group claimed that the mosque was ‘illegal’ and went on to recite 'Hanuman Chalisa' (a prayer dedicated to lord Hanuman) near the mosque and allegedly threatened to demolish it, the report stated, according to news agency PTI.

The ruckus created a sense of panic among the locals in the area, with the police saying that chaos was spreading among the passengers going to the Cantt railway station.

As the news spread, members of the Muslim community, including Taskeen Salmani, the mosque's 'mutwalli' (caretaker), filed a police complaint in response to the incident.

Police have made it clear that they won't be dealing with the issue of the legality of the mosque, with the circle officer saying that ‘only the courts’ can answer that question.

Meanwhile, a delegation of All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) met Meerut senior superintendent of police (SSP) Vipin Tada, seeking strict action against Sirohi under UAPA.

Source:hindustantimes.com

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https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/upi-down-for-several-users-across-apps-101742998982687.html

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Satta jihad: Uddhav Thackeray slams BJP over Saugat-e-Modi scheme for Muslims

Mar 27, 2025

Shiv Sena (UBT) chief and former Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray on Thursday launched a scathing attack on the BJP for its newly-launched Saugat-e-Modi scheme, alleging that the party has forsaken Hindutva and resorted to 'satta jihad' (power jihad).

Thackeray criticised the move, branding it as 'Saugat-e-Satta' (a gift of power) and accused the BJP of appeasement politics for electoral gains in Bihar.

"BJP should officially announce that they have abandoned Hindutva. They are distributing 'Saugat-e-Satta' to those whose houses were demolished by bulldozers and to many who lost their lives in communal riots. This initiative is only for the Bihar Assembly elections. The BJP has resorted to satta jihad," Thackeray said.

The BJP on Tuesday launched a nationwide outreach programme targeting economically weaker Muslim families in the run-up to Eid. The initiative, seen as a strategic move ahead of the Bihar Assembly elections later this year, aims to distribute special Eid kits to underprivileged Muslims.

The programme, which began in Delhi's Nizamuddin under the guidance of BJP president JP Nadda, is expected to benefit around 32 lakh people nationwide.

The Eid kits include food items such as dry fruits, besan (gram flour), suji (semolina), sewai (vermicelli) and sugar. Additionally, men will receive kurta-pyjamas, while women will be given fabric for suits. The estimated cost of each kit is between Rs 500 and Rs 600.

Several opposition leaders have criticised the BJP for rolling out the scheme. Congress national spokesperson Shama Mohammad called the programme a "hypocritical drama".

"After demonising the Muslim community, delivering hate speeches against them, making propaganda videos to target them, and bulldozing their homes, the BJP is now planning to distribute Saugat-e-Modi kits to 32 lakh Muslims on Eid. What a hypocritical drama," Shama Mohamed, Congress national spokesperson, posted on X.

Even Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) leader Mayawati called the 'Saugat-e-Modi' for the minorities a political move. In a post on X, Mayawati said, "While the BJP's announcement to send the Prime Minister's 'love message and gift' as 'Saugat-e-Modi' to 32 lakh poor minority families on occasions such as Eid, Baisakhi, Good Friday, and Easter may seem like a benevolent gesture, it only serves their political interests".

Trinamool Congress (TMC) MP Kirti Azad called it "the joke of the day".

"Have you seen crocodile's face? It appears as if the animal is smiling but when you go near, it will swallow you," Azad said.

"The same scenario is with the BJP. The world knows about their acts, they have nothing to show. This is the biggest joke of the day," the TMC MP added.

Source:indiatoday.in

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https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/saugat-e-modi-scheme-for-muslims-uddhav-thackeray-slams-bjp-satta-jihad-2699901-2025-03-27

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Reservation for Muslims in Karnataka: Not a matter of religion

SANJEER ALAM

Mar 26, 2025

Last Friday, the Karnataka government passed the Karnataka Transparency in Public Procurements (KTPP) Bill (Amendment), 2025, providing reservation in public contracts to different categories, including Muslims, designated as OBCs. As anticipated, this sparked a political debate both in the state and at the Centre. Given its stand on religion-based quota, the BJP has opposed the reservation, pointing to the lack of constitutional propriety. However, for Congress, this reservation is based on socio-economic backwardness and not religion, and hence, legally consistent.

Is the amendment to KTPP an “unconstitutional misadventure” as dubbed by the BJP? To understand the larger issue, one needs to look at the legal/constitutional underpinnings of the OBC category, the manner in which sub-classification of OBCs is done, and quotas are allocated to different sub-categories.

Under Articles 15(4) and 16(4) of the Constitution, the category of OBCs is religion-neutral. Keeping this in view, the Mandal Commission included many non-Hindu communities in the list of “Backward Classes”. For identifying OBCs among non-Hindus, it created some criteria: (a) All untouchables converted to any non-Hindu religion and (b) Such occupational communities known by the name of their traditional hereditary occupation, and where Hindu counterparts were included in the list of other backward classes.

In 1992, the nine-judge constitutional bench of the Supreme Court, in the Indra Sawhney v Union of India case, examined the constitutionality of the criteria adopted by the Mandal Commission to identify OBCs. It was unequivocal about the inclusion of Muslims, as of other religious communities, in the category. It held that “inadequate representation is not confined to any specific section of the people, but all those who fall under the group of social backwardness, whether they are Shudras of the Hindu community or similarly situated other backward classes of people in other communities, namely, Muslims, Sikhs, Christians, etc.” Moreover, to ensure that benefits of reservation reach “poorer and weaker sections” of the Backward Classes based on “degrees of social backwardness,” the apex court also allowed for creating different sub-categories.

In Karnataka, the category of OBCs is divided into five sub-categories. Included in Category 1 are 391 subgroups, of which 17 belong to Muslims. Category 2A consists of 399 groups, 19 of them from the Muslim community. Subgroups placed under this category are entitled to 15 per cent reservation. The quotas for the sub-categories 3 (A) and 3 (B) are 4 per cent and 5 per cent respectively. What has, however, been at the centre of the controversy is the sub-category 2 (B), created in 1994 to include Muslims, and SC converts to Buddhism and Christianity. A total of 6 per cent was set aside for this category (4 per cent for Muslims and 2 per cent for SCs who converted to Christianity and Buddhism). This was challenged in the Supreme Court. In its interim order, the Supreme Court directed the state government to limit all reservations to 50 per cent. But it did not question the legality of the sub-category 2 (B) per se. In 1995, H D Deve Gowda, the then Chief Minister of Karnataka, shifted SCs who converted to Christianity and Buddhism into subcategories 1 and 2 (A) respectively, to leave Muslims alone in the subcategory 2 (B) with 4 per cent reservation.

Subsequent governments, including the ones led by the BJP, did not tamper with this arrangement. Interestingly, the BJP government in Karnataka, led by Sadananda Gowda, ordered in 2013 that all Muslims, except for nine sub-castes, be considered backward classes eligible for central OBC reservations. However, just ahead of the 2023 assembly polls, the BJP government led by Basavaraj Bommai proposed to restructure the OBC category by doing away with categories 3 (A) and 3 (B), and erasing the subcategory 2 (B). Instead, he proposed to include them in the 10 per cent quota for the economically weaker sections (EWS). However, this proposal was met with stiff political opposition. Eventually, the matter reached the Supreme Court. On April 13, 2023, the apex court, while commenting on the government’s decision to scrap the 4 per cent OBC quota for Muslims, said that it “appears to suggest …the foundation of its decision-making process is highly shaky and flawed”. In effect, the category of 2 (B) continues to exist, so does 4 per cent reservation for Muslims under this sub-category.

Source:indianexpress.com

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Is Aurangzeb’s legacy really the biggest challenge India is facing?

FIROZ BAKHT AHMED

Mar 27, 2025

Last week, Devendra Fadnavis, the governance-focused Chief Minister of Maharashtra, met Bill Gates and talked of AI. Last week, he also spoke of a grave — that of the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb. Also last week, a new accusation was added to the list of accusations levelled against Muslims by Hindutva forces: We idolise Aurangzeb.

I need not submit my national loyalty certificate to anyone but being a practising Muslim, I do understand the strengths and weaknesses of my community. Of course, every community has loony elements but a scientific poll will show Aurangzeb is not among the heroes or idols of Muslims. But the way Aurangzeb is being flogged, his nondescript grave being made into a lightning rod for loyalties and civilisational pride, it would seem that the biggest challenge we face, as a nation, is the legacy of a Mughal emperor. Nagpur, a city known for its amity, was rocked by violence on this issue last week — this after the RSS, which has its headquarters in the city, clarified that Aurangzeb isn’t relevant.

Last month, the UP CM used derogatory words for Muslims. Then this month, in the UP assembly, a BJP MLA reportedly called for a separate wing in hospitals for Muslims. A senior police officer in the state said people from the community should stay indoors on Holi. And then, the main advocate for the minorities and the disputed mosque in Sambhal was arrested before his appearance in court.

Last month, authorities at the Shaheed Abdul Hamid Vidyalaya in Ghaziabad decided to change the name of the school to “PM Shri Composite School”, and thus erase the name of Veer Abdul Hamid who sacrificed his life during the battle of Asal Uttar in Punjab, where he had destroyed seven Pakistani tanks. Fortunately, the name change was stalled.

What’s the need to keep the communal pot stirring constantly? One can understand the power of emotive issues during elections. But the BJP has won impressive victories in Haryana, Maharashtra and Delhi. What, then, explains the need to rake up communal issues?

What explains the demonisation of Urdu, the language that has and will keep building bridges of composite culture? From Ghalib’s kalam (pen) to Mir’s soulful cry, Urdu is a legacy of love that will never die because it is a tapestry of cultures. It’s the voice of humanity. The Rajasthan Education Department has issued orders for the closure of Urdu classes at schools and said that posts of Sanskrit teachers will be created in these schools. Of course, children should study Sanskrit. But why frame Sanskrit in opposition to Urdu?

After all, Rajendra Prasad, Maulana Abul Kalam Azad and Raja Ram Mohan Roy studied Urdu, Persian and Arabic respectively. Roy published his magazine, Mirat-ul-Akhbar, in Persian. The colonial state issued gag orders against it because it was seen as uniting Hindus and Muslims.

The love of Urdu led Ram Prasad to add “Bismil” to his name. Similarly, Dattatreya became “Kaifi”. There are several other examples — Raghupati Sahay became “Firaq Gorakhpuri”, Sampuran Singh is known to us as “Gulzar”, Brij Narain adopted the name “Chakbast”, Pandit Hari Chand became “Akhtar”, Daya Chand became “Naseem Lakhnawi” and Upendra Nath acquired the pen name “Ashk”.

There will always be hardline elements who will do their best to drive a wedge between communities. Prejudice and bigotry are among the baser human impulses. What can make a difference is putting political weight behind tolerance. Our leaders have to realise that distrust and hate have never led to progress and development. Instead, they sap the soul of a nation.

Discriminating against your neighbour means giving a free pass to someone else to discriminate against your child. Denying a flat on rent to someone because of their faith means you are giving an excuse to some other homeowner to deny a flat to your child based on the colour of her skin.

Even the opposition parties — perhaps because they have been overwhelmed by their electoral losses — haven’t worked to evolve a vocabulary that mitigates this atmosphere of distrust. Wearing a janeu and walking into the temple is seen as safe politics, not wearing a skull cap or sitting at an iftar table.

The responsibility to stop communalists and pseudo-secularists, who are present in equal measure in the majority and minority communities, lies with us. Muslims should take care of rabble-rousing elements in the community, substitute their leaders with devoted, pragmatic and sincere statesmen, who are willing to solve the real problems of the community without mobilising them on emotional and religious lines. The community needs leaders who talk about education, skills, technology, health and gender rights rather than deepen insecurities and fan hatred.

In the same manner, moderate Hindus must not lengthen the rope to the likes of the VHP or the hardline elements of the Sangh. These elements need to be told they cannot speak on behalf of the entire Hindu community. One of the principal pillars of Hinduism is its generous soul. We need to sensitise our children, whatever faith they may follow, to the fact that tugging the beard of an elderly Muslim man violates the precepts and principles of Hinduism — the Vedas and Upanishads — and, indeed, of all faiths. Similarly, violence in the name of Islam is a disgrace to the faith.

Source:indianexpress.com

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Waqf Bill protests rock Patna from streets to the House

Imran Moji

March 26, 2025

The All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) launched a nationwide protest against the Waqf (Amendment) Bill in Patna on Wednesday, claiming that the proposed bill undermines Muslim minority rights.

Meanwhile, the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) and other opposition leaders raised the issue of the Waqf Amendment Bill at the Bihar Assembly as well.

The day-long sit-in protest was part of the AIMPLB’s resolve to adopt all constitutional, legal and democratic means to oppose the Bill, which is ”unconstitutional and undemocratic”.

The next sit-in protest is planned at Vijayawada on 29 March. It will be followed by major rallies in Hyderabad, Mumbai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, Malerkotla (Punjab), and Ranchi.

The AIMPLB has been trying to convince Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu, and LJP (R) leader Chirag Paswan to oppose the Bill, which is against minority rights.

Now, as the proposed legislation is expected to be introduced in Parliament during the ongoing Budget Session, the Muslim organisations have launched a nationwide protest to send a clear message to the key NDA allies that they should either withdraw support for the Bill or risk losing their support.

A few days ago, prominent Muslim organisations, including the AIMPLB and the Imarat-e-Shariah, had boycotted an iftar party hosted by Nitish Kumar to oppose his stand on the proposed Waqf Bill.

Being an election year, it came as a rude shock to the JD(U).

The Wednesday protest organised by the AIMPLB received extensive support from political establishments, including the RJD, Congress, Jan Suraaj and Communist parties.

RJD supremo Lalu Prasad, Leader of Opposition in Bihar Assembly Tejashwi Prasad Yadav, Jan Suraaj Party founder Prashant Kihsor, Azad Samaj Party Founder Chandra Shekhar Aazad were the eminent politicians who attended the protest.

Addressing the gathering, Lalu Prasad said, “We will not compromise at any cost with our resolution against communal forces. We are with you and will always support you on the proposed Waqf Bill that has been brought against the constitutional norms in the country. Such undemocratic actions of the central government need to be strongly opposed.”

Tejashwi Prasad Yadav assured Muslims that the RJD will continue to protest from the streets to the House until the Waqf Amendment Bill is withdrawn.

The RJD and other opposition leaders raised the issue of the Waqf Amendment Bill at the Bihar Assembly as well. RJD MLA Akhtarul Islam Shaheen said that the JD(U) should also oppose the Waqf Amendment Bill.

Outside the House, the opposition leaders remained adamant on the demand to withdraw the Waqf Amendment Bill, while inside the House, the uproar of the opposition leaders became so intense that the proceedings of the Assembly had to be adjourned.

Source:thestatesman.com

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https://www.thestatesman.com/india/waqf-bill-protests-rock-patna-from-streets-to-the-house-1503412224.html

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Debunking the secular myth of Ramzan

March 26, 2025

Oh, here we go again—another slick attempt to drape Islam in a secular shawl! The oft-repeated claim that Ramzan is a month of humanity, love, and unity is a darling of liberal discourse. It’s a rosy myth, isn’t it? Fasting framed as a warm celebration of diversity and togetherness—how sweet! But let’s cut through the fluff. This isn’t just a benign misstep; it’s part of a broader liberal plan to sand down Islam’s theocratic backbone, shedding its religious identity and repackaging it as a tame cultural phenomenon. The nuance of an Abrahamic faith gets lost in the shuffle, and that’s no accident.

Islam isn’t opposed to love or humanity—those threads run deep. But Ramzan? That’s not its gig. Fasting here isn’t a group hug or a diversity fest; it’s a rugged, solitary trek—cutting ties with the human world to zero in on Allah. Think about it: you’re not just skipping lunch for kicks; you’re ditching distractions, cravings, and the noise of life. It’s discipline, devotion, a straight line to the divine—not some liberal fantasy of unity and feasting. The goal is submission to God, not assimilation into a feel-good narrative.

Yet, clockwork-like, the stereotype kicks in every Ramzan. It’s dressed up as a season of glitzy iftars, interfaith selfies, and cozy vibes. Sharing a meal is nice, sure, but it’s not the heart of it. The heart is spiritual steel—facing inward, not outward. Here’s the proof: battles like Badr in 624 CE raged during Ramzan. Picture warriors fasting in scorching heat, not sipping tea at peace rallies, but clashing swords because faith demanded it. That’s not a month of cuddly celebrations—it’s a testament to its theocratic grit. Liberals conveniently gloss over that, eager to melt it into a cultural stew.

Don’t misunderstand—Ramzan doesn’t shun humanity. Charity flows, communities connect, kindness abounds. But those are side effects, not the mission. The mission is Allah, unfiltered. The liberal spin, though, twists this upside down. It’s a deliberate move to strip Islam of its God-centered core, slapping a universalist sticker on a practice rooted in theocracy. By peddling Ramzan as a festival of human bonds, they dilute its essence—its fierce, unyielding focus on divine submission—turning it into a secular shadow of itself.

So, when someone waxes poetic about Ramzan’s love and unity, nod politely—but don’t swallow it whole. This isn’t about Islam rejecting those virtues; it’s about Ramzan not being their billboard. It’s raw, intense, and far less palatable than the myth implies. The liberal agenda wants it tamed, a cultural trinket stripped of its religious soul. But Ramzan resists that box. It’s not here to blend into the melting pot—it’s a month of faith, not a buffet for secular appetites. Let’s stop letting this plan rewrite what it stands for and see it for what it is.

Source:muslimmirror.com

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https://muslimmirror.com/debunking-the-secular-myth-of-ramzan/

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Samajwadi MP Barq served police notice, major action likely in Sambhal violence case

March 26, 2025

The Uttar Pradesh Police have summoned Samajwadi Party (SP) MP Ziaur Rahman Barq for questioning over the violent clashes that occurred in Sambhal district last November. On Tuesday, a large police team arrived at his residence in Deepa Sarai to serve the notice, but Barq was reportedly in New Delhi. Sources suggest that the police may send a team to the national capital soon to deliver the notice.

The violence erupted after a mob protested against a local court’s decision to conduct a survey of the historic Mughal-era Jama Masjid. The unrest resulted in the deaths of five Muslims, allegedly due to police gunfire.

Police claim Barq’s presence and speech aggravated tensions, and they are now seeking to question him under Section 35/3 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).

Earlier in January, the Allahabad High Court refused to quash the case against Barq but temporarily barred the police from arresting him, offering the MP temporary relief without absolving him of the charges. Legal experts believe that the recent developments indicate a renewed effort by authorities to investigate his involvement in the violence.

An FIR in the case alleges that Barq incited violence for political gain, in collaboration with Sohail Iqbal, the son of local SP MLA Iqbal Mehmood. Over 50 individuals have been arrested in connection with the clashes, and authorities anticipate further arrests.

A senior police officer anonymously stated that there is substantial evidence indicating planned incitement, with political leaders under investigation for mobilizing protests that led to violence.

Barq, however, has denied the charges, calling them politically motivated. He accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of attempting to silence opposition voices and questioned why only opposition leaders were being targeted, while violence by right-wing groups went unaddressed.

The Samajwadi Party has supported Barq, with party spokesperson Rajendra Chaudhary criticizing the move. He claimed the government is targeting opposition leaders through false accusations to create an atmosphere of fear.

Local Muslim leaders and activists have voiced concerns about selective law enforcement. Social activist Mohammad Salman remarked that Muslim protesters are labeled as rioters, while right-wing violence is ignored. Legal expert Faizan Ahmad pointed out that such cases often show a pattern of selective targeting of Muslim leaders, while those linked to ruling parties face no consequences.

Legal experts believe Barq’s next actions will be pivotal in shaping the case’s outcome. If he ignores the police summons, the authorities may escalate their response, potentially leading to more legal challenges. — With Agencies Inputs

Source:muslimmirror.com

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https://muslimmirror.com/samajwadi-mp-barq-served-police-notice-major-action-likely-in-sambhal-violence-case/

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Cow vigilantes, Bajrang Dal members attack two Muslim drivers in Ayodhya

March 26, 2025

On March 18, members of the far-right Bajrang Dal and cow vigilantes assaulted two Muslim men in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh, accusing them of smuggling cows. A video surfaced showing the men being beaten while their faces were covered, with the attackers forcing them to chant, “Gau hamari matha hai, gau rakshaks hamara baap” (Cows are our mothers, cow protectors are our fathers).

The person filming the assault questioned the possibility of communal harmony, asking, “How do you expect us (Hindus) to foster communal brotherhood with people like them?” The incident has sparked widespread outrage.

Cow vigilantism in India has been increasing over the past decade, particularly in states governed by the right-wing Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). These attacks often target minorities, especially Muslims.

However, in February this year, a disturbing incident occurred in Palwal district, Haryana, where cow vigilantes assaulted two individuals from the Hindu community. The victims, a truck driver and a conductor, were accused of smuggling cows.

Driver Balkishan and conductor Sandeep were transporting cattle in a pickup truck from Rajasthan to Lucknow in Uttar Pradesh. However, they lost direction and sought help from the emergency police station.

According to driver Balkishan, who survived, one of the police personnel, identified as driver Ranveer Singh, made them open the truck. “The police driver made us open our truck and inspected the cows and checked the documents. After that, the police handed us over to three unknown people and left the place,” Balkishan alleged.

The driver and his conductor were brutally assaulted by the men with lathis, swords, and hammers, causing multiple fractures and stab injuries. Later, the attackers threw the two in a deep canal, leaving them to die.

The brutal assault led to the conductor’s death, highlighting the alarming rise of such violence and the dangerous implications of vigilante justice in the country. This case underscores the growing tension and intolerance. — With Agencies Inputs

Source:muslimmirror.com

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https://muslimmirror.com/cow-vigilantes-bajrang-dal-members-attack-two-muslim-drivers-in-ayodhya/

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Muslims are safest in Uttar Pradesh, says CM Yogi Adityanath, defends ‘bulldozer justice’

PRASHANT SRIVASTAVA

26 March, 202

Citing the examples of Bangladesh and Pakistan, the UP chief minister asserted that a Muslim family would feel safe among a hundred Hindu families, but it was not the case the other way.

“In Uttar Pradesh, the Muslims are the safest. If the Hindus are safe, then they are also safe. If there were riots in UP before 2017, if Hindu shops were burning, then Muslim shops were also burning. If Hindu houses were burning, then Muslim houses were also burning. And after 2017, the riots stopped,” Yogi told news agency ANI in Hindi during an interview on the completion of eight years of his government.

“’50 Hindus cannot feel safe among 100 Muslim families and the situation in Bangladesh is an example, where there have been several attacks on minorities and temples in recent months. A Muslim family is the safest among a hundred Hindu families. They will have the freedom to practice all their religious deeds. But can 50 Hindus be safe among 100 Muslim families? No. Bangladesh is an example. Before this, Pakistan was an example.”

The Uttar Pradesh chief minister also fielded questions on the Sambhal violence and related law and order situation there.

His government, Yogi said, would revive as many temples as present in Sambhal. “There are 64 pilgrimage sites in Sambhal, and we have found 54… Whatever it is, we will find it. We will tell the world to see what happened in Sambhal?”

Violence broke out in November last year when a local court ordered a survey of the Mughal-era Shahi Jama Masjid. Four persons were killed in the violence in Sambhal. The Hindutva groups have been asserting that the mosque was built on the ruins of a demolished shrine, a claim rejected by the Muslims.

The Uttar Pradesh chief minister, meanwhile, took a dig at Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav, calling him a “follower and devotee” of Aurangzeb and Babur. Yadav and his party workers have been glorifying the Mughal rulers, he said. “Those who follow and idolise Aurangzeb and Babur, also have their qualities and become like them.”

Incidentally, the Hindutva groups claim that Babur, the Mughal dynasty founder, had destroyed the temple on whose ruins the Jama Masjid stands in Sambhal.

To a question on the UP government’s controversial bulldozer action, Yogi came out in its defence even as the Supreme Court has slammed demolitions carried out by the administration.

“Laws and regulations are only for those people who follow them. Those who take laws in their hands, then at times, it is needed to teach them in a language they understand,” he said. “If someone gets violent and attacks us, then do we beg in front front of them? No. If the other person has become violent, then we have to reply as well. Right?”

Yogi also criticised the opposition parties for blaming Maha Kumbh as an event of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Ministers and senior leaders of Congress and Samajwadi Party visited Kumbh, then how can they claim it was a BJP event, he asked. “It was an event that happened in a BJP-ruled state where the Centre and the state both together were taking care of the arrangements.”

Over 60 crore devotees are estimated to have attended the 45-day Maha Kumbh, which was billed as the world’s largest religious gathering. The gathering was marred by a stampede in which at least 30 people were killed in the last week of January.

Asked whether he would be the chief minister for the third time in 2027, Yogi replied that it was up to the party to decide. “Any worker of the BJP can become chief minister. It is the party who decides the face,” he asserted.

Source:theprint.in

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https://theprint.in/politics/muslims-are-safest-in-uttar-pradesh-says-cm-yogi-adityanath-defends-bulldozer-justice/2565934/

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Waqf Amendment Bill needed for transparency, accountability of Waqf Boards: Delhi Haj Committee chair

March 26, 2025

Nistula Hebbar NISTULA HEBBAR

Refuting allegations that the Waqf Amendment Bill, 2024, encroaches on the rights of the Muslim community, Delhi Haj Committee chairperson Kausar Jahan says the proposed legislation will bring much-needed transparency and accountability to the Waqf Boards.

 Parliamentary Panel clears report on Waqf (Amendment) Bill; Opposition slams its provisions as ‘unconstitutional’

After its introduction last year, the Waqf Amendment Bill, 2024, was referred to a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) in an effort to bring in bipartisan support. The government claims the proposed amendments will streamline the declaration and regulation of properties controlled by the Waqf Boards. Opposition parties have opposed the Bill, terming it an encroachment on Muslim rights.

 Watch | Explained: What are the key changes proposed in the Waqf Amendment Bill?

“Some people believe that there is no need for these amendments, and a propaganda is being spread about the intentions of the government, but these changes are needed to fully realise, with accountability and transparency, the intentions behind setting up the Waqf Board,” said Ms. Kausar Jahan.

‘Misuse and cronyism’

“The Waqf Board had been set up to assist underprivileged Muslims, but instead, the Board is being misused to fill the pockets of a few people. For example in Delhi, the former chief Amanatullah Khan did not pay salaries to Imams, which finally Delhi’s Lt Governor V.K. Saxena made sure to allocate. Widow pensions were held back and issues related to transparency of how money was spent also came up. Even appointments were also done of friends and relatives of the chief,” said Ms. Kausar Jahan in a strong defence of the Bill.

“There are many who feel that the Waqf Board was being run by a club of like-minded people. The specific role of the Collector as surveyor of Waqf property is needed to ensure proper identification with proper documentation. With the administration involved, a proper procedure will be followed, and documents maintained,” she said.

The Waqf Amendment Bill, 2024, proposes that the district collector, or a person nominated by him (not below the rank of deputy collector) be empowered to carry out a survey of Waqf property. The Bill also makes provisions for the registration of Waqf property through a centralised portal, a broad-based composition of the Waqf Council and State Waqf Boards, including non-Muslim and women members, as well as spelling out a detailed procedure for the mutation of property as per revenue laws and with due notice to all concerned before classifying any property as Waqf property.

Source:thehindu.com

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Kolkata's Iftar gatherings foster inclusivity and camaraderie during Ramzan

Mar 26, 2025

Kolkata: With only a few days left until the month of Ramzan draws to a close for this year, Kolkata is witnessing a surge of Iftar get-togethers, bringing people together across religious and social divides. From religious figures to politicians, from businessmen to local clubs, communities are hosting friends and acquaintances over Iftar, fostering a sense of inclusivity and camaraderie.

Ramzan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar during which Muslims fast during the hours of daylight. Iftar is the evening meal that marks the end of daily fasting in Ramzan. The platter at Iftar get-togethers includes Iftar must-haves like dates, fritters, fruits, sherbets, and delicacies like Haleem.

Several elected representatives also hosted and attended these events, which their naysayers feel is done with an eye on the votes. "Traditionally, families host friends and relatives over Iftar. It has also been a tradition to host community Iftars where people can join in irrespective of their faiths and social status. Beyond the religious significance, hosting Iftar fosters important socio-cultural connections and presents an opportunity for interfaith interaction," said Syed Mohammad Imam, a professor of Islamic Studies in the city.

Last week, a union on Lindsay Street organised an Iftar get-together attended by TMC MLA Swarna Kamal Saha. Mayor Firhad Hakim attended an Iftar hosted at Town Hall earlier this month. Last week, Kamarhati Development Society, with support from the Kamarhati Auto Operators Union, organised Iftar in Kamarhati, which was attended by MLA Madan Mitra and other prominent citizens of the area. "They are public representatives and attend all religious and social programmes organised in their area by people from different faiths," said Nasim Ahmed, one of the organisers of the Iftar get-together in Kamarhati.

Many families hosted Dawat-e-Iftar for their friends from different faiths. Several market committees too organised community Iftars for their members. Several NGOs hosted interfaith Iftars in Muslim neighbourhoods to foster brotherhood and social harmony. "Such togetherness forges inclusivity and camaraderie between people from different faiths. This is also the need of the hour to push back divisive forces," said Arsalan Ahmed, a businessman who recently hosted an Iftar get-together.

Source:indiatimes.com

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https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kolkata/kolkatas-iftar-gatherings-foster-inclusivity-and-camaraderie-during-ramzan/articleshow/119545948.cms

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Mayawati’s 2027 poll maths: MBCs+Dalits to give more returns than Muslims+Dalits

by Manish Sahu

March 27, 2025

AFTER FAILING to secure winning results from its traditional votebank of Muslims and Dalits in the 2022 Assembly and 2024 Lok Sabha elections, the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) has now begun preparations for the 2027 Assembly polls by shifting its focus to the Most Backward Classes (MBCs) and working to bring them into the party ranks.

In the present political landscape, the party leadership believes that an alliance between MBCs and Dalits holds greater electoral potential for the BSP than the traditional Dalit-Muslim equation.

The BSP is focusing on MBCs because, along with Dalits, they make up a larger voter base than Muslims and Dalits in Uttar Pradesh — Dalits account for over 20 per cent of the state’s population, while OBCs make up around 40. The Muslim community accounts for nearly 20 per cent of the state population.

The party has appointed two sahyojaks (conveners) in each district of UP — one from the SC community and one from the OBC community. The district-level Sahyojaks will appoint two Sahyojaks at the Vidhan Sabha level — one from the SC community and one from the OBC community. Their role will be to reach the village level and inform people about the work done by the BSP during its tenure in the state government: In 1995, 1997, 2002 and 2007.

The BSP has implemented this strategy to foster collaboration between the Scheduled Caste (SC) and Other Backward Communities (OBC) communities from the district to the village level while also reinstating leadership roles for MBC members at the local level in the state.

This effort to woo OBCs follows the recent efforts by the BJP and the Congress announcing their district president lists, where they allocated significant representation to the OBC community. The ruling BJP appointed 70 out of 98 district and city unit chiefs, with the majority coming from the OBC community (26) and Brahmins (20). Additionally, 18 leaders were chosen from Thakur, Bhumihar, Kayastha, and Vaishya communities. Meanwhile, the Congress appointed city and district presidents for 75 districts, distributing positions among OBCs (34), Muslims (31), Scheduled Castes (18), and one from the Scheduled Tribe community.

On Tuesday, BSP president Mayawati convened a state-level meeting in Lucknow to launch a strong campaign to unite all sections of the ‘Bahujan Samaj’ into a powerful political force through “mutual brotherhood”, said a party leader.

BSP’s state president, Vishwanath Pal, said in the meeting that Mayawati outlined guidelines for all Sahyojaks from 76 districts on how to bring more members of the OBC community into the BSP fold.

They were instructed on organising meetings at various levels, including village gatherings with the OBC community. Their role is to inform people about the BSP and encourage new memberships.

Party sources said they would explain to the public about the works the party done during its rule. A major initiative was the creation of the UP Backward Classes Welfare Department—the first in the country separate from the Social Welfare Department, with a dedicated budget. The state also formed the UP State Backward Classes Commission and set up the Backward Classes Welfare Directorate. The BSP said that its government introduced several “pioneering welfare schemes” aimed at uplift of the poor, backward, and the marginalised Bahujan communities.

Other initiatives included government schemes such as marriage assistance and healthcare support for daughters of OBC families, along with computer training programmes for unemployed OBC youths to improve job prospects.

Pal also said that it was decided in the meeting to celebrate Dr B R Ambedkar’s birth anniversary on April 14 by organising Vichar Sanghosti (Ideological Seminar) at the district level through seminars and discussions. Party members from Lucknow will gather at the Dr B R Ambedkar Memorial in Lucknow, while those from the Meerut division (Western UP) will visit the National Dalit Inspiration Site in Noida to pay their tributes.

Since losing power in 2012, the BSP has seen its OBC support shift towards regional parties, the BJP, and the Samajwadi Party. The party now recognises that Dalit votes alone are not enough to regain power and is actively working to rebuild its OBC support base.

The BSP is now making a “determined effort to regain power”, as it struggles with a sharp decline despite being the leading political force for Dalits in UP. Despite its loyal voter base, the party currently holds no Lok Sabha seats. In the 2024 general elections, it managed just 2.06 per cent of the national vote despite contesting 488 of 543 seats. Its downfall was also evident in the 2022 Assembly elections, where it secured only one seat with a 12.88 per cent vote share. However, before 2002, influential OBC groups such as Mauryas, Sainis, Rajbhars, Kushwahas and Kurmis were aligned with the BSP and had government representation.

However, the party decided to change its strategy also due to recent turmoil after Mayawati expelled her nephew, Akash Anand, whom she had once named as her political heir. Mayawati elaborated on her decision by claiming that Anand had “come under the influence” of his father-in-law, Ashok Siddharth, a former Rajya Sabha MP. She also made it clear that she would not name a successor “during her lifetime.”

Source:indianexpress.com

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Karni Sena members storm SP MP’s home with bulldozer over Rana Sanga remark

Mar 27, 2025

AGRA: On the day CM Yogi Adityanath was in Agra, members of right-wing outfit Karni Sena vandalised the residence of Samajwadi Party's Rajya Sabha MP Ramji Lal Suman in the city and injured several police officers on Wednesday after storming the area with a bulldozer during a protest over a Parliament speech referencing Rajput king Rana Sanga. The group broke through police barricades near MG Road, clashed with officers, and damaged vehicles and the entrance gate of the MP's house before a baton charge dispersed the crowd.

Suman was allegedly targeted for his comments in Parliament, where he said, "BJP leaders often claim that Muslims have the DNA of Babur. But Indian Muslims do not consider Babur their ideal. In fact, who brought Babur to India? It was Rana Sanga who invited him to defeat Ibrahim Lodi. By that logic, if you claim Muslims are the descendants of Babur, then you are also the descendants of Rana Sanga — a traitor."

While Suman was in Delhi attending Parliament, his son, former MLC Ranjit Suman, said the family had received threats online and accused the local administration of ignoring warnings. "On social media platforms, they said they will lay siege to our house. The administration was aware that a protest was planned by Karni Sena, but no action was taken. Today, armed with sticks and swords, they damaged our house and also the houses of other people in the locality. Many people have been injured," he said.

Footage showed protesters waving saffron flags, shouting slogans, and breaking through barriers to reach Suman's house. Though they brought a bulldozer, police intercepted it before it reached the residence. Still, the group damaged several vehicles and clashed with officers, leaving at least 15 personnel injured, including inspector Alok Kumar Singh.

Agra DCP Sonam Kumar said police detained 10 people and an FIR has been lodged. "At least 15 cops, including inspector Singh, have been injured. Teams have been constituted, and we will arrest all the accused involved in the incident," she said.

Mahipal Singh Makrana, national president of Shree Rajput Karni Sena, called the incident "a trailer" and warned of a larger protest if action was not taken against Suman. "We will stage a bigger protest if no action is taken against him. We will punish Suman for insulting the Rajput warrior who never faced defeat in his life."

Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav condemned the attack, linking it to Suman's Dalit identity. In a post on social media, he said, "Even with the chief minister present in Agra, when a violent incident of vandalism by some people at the house of a PDA MP cannot be stopped, then zero tolerance is bound to be zero indeed. Is the chief minister's sphere of influence shrinking day by day, or is it that no one is listening to the ‘outgoing CM' anymore? If he is still the chief minister, then take immediate action and identify and punish the culprits..."

Source:indiatimes.com

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Mideast

 

Increase of US military assets in Middle East points to potential strikes on Houthis

March 26, 2025

LONDON: The significant increase of US military assets positioned in the Middle East points to the potential of heavy strikes on Iran-backed Houthi positions in Yemen.

The US has recently deployed highly sophisticated aircraft and a second aircraft carrier to the region.

At least five B-2 stealth bombers have been deployed to Diego Garcia, a British military base used by the US in the Indian Ocean. More are reportedly en route.

Seven C-17 aircraft have also been tracked landing on the remote atoll, suggesting transportation of equipment, personnel and supplies, and refueling aircraft have been repositioned to strategic locations.

The Pentagon recently ordered the USS Harry S. Truman carrier strike group to extend its deployment in the Red Sea by a month, and a second strike group, led by the USS Carl Vinson aircraft carrier, is heading for the Middle East.

It is an unusual surge in military assets and an indication, perhaps, that the US is planning heavy strikes on the Houthis in Yemen and possibly looking to send a strong message to Iran.

The Houthis have repeatedly attacked Red Sea shipping and Israel during the conflict in Gaza.

Those attacks stopped while the ceasefire was in force but have restarted following a resumption of Israeli military operations in Gaza.

The Houthis have vowed to strike Israel’s Ben Gurion Airport and have fired ballistic missiles toward Israel on an almost daily basis in recent weeks, triggering air raid sirens in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem.

The militia claimed to have launched drones at Israel on Tuesday night, but the Israeli military has not confirmed this.

The Trump administration has launched attacks against the Houthis to restore the freedom of shipping in the Red Sea, a crucial waterway for global commerce as it is linked to the Mediterranean Sea via the Suez Canal.

The first wave of those attacks was the subject of a major security breach when a journalist was mistakenly included in discussions between senior US government personnel on the messaging app Signal.

US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has promised to continue striking the Houthis for as long as it takes, and President Trump has warned Iran he might be forced to take military action against its nuclear facilities if Tehran does not agree to talks.

Source:arabnews.com

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Israel, Hamas trade threats as new Gaza death toll hits 830

March 26, 2025

CAIRO/NEW YORK: Israel and Hamas traded theats on Wednesday as the Palestinian death toll from eight days of renewed airstrikes and military action in Gaza rose to 830.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel would seize swaths of the enclave if Hamas did not release hostages, while the militant group warned they would return “in coffins” if Israel did not stop the bombing.

Just over a week since the new onslaught began, Israel said two projectiles were fired from Gaza, with one intercepted and the other landing near the border. The rocket fire came a day after hundreds of Palestinians in Gaza staged a rare protest against Hamas, chanting slogans against the group and calling for an end to the war.

Netanyahu told the Knesset: “The more Hamas persists in its refusal to release our hostages, the stronger the pressure we will exert. This includes the seizure of territory.” Hamas said it was trying to keep the hostages alive, but Israel’s military action endangered their lives. “Every time the occupation attempts to retrieve its captives by force, it ends up bringing them back in coffins,” the group said.

Of the 251 hostages seized by Hamas when they attacked Israel in October 2023, 58 are still being held, including 34 the Israeli military says are dead. The Palestinian death toll from Israel's retaliatory war on Gaza is at least 50,183, mostly civilians.

Meanwhile video footage emerged on Wednesday of hundreds of Palestinian protesters marching in Beit Lahiya in northern Gaza to demand an end to war, chanting “Out, out, out, Hamas get out.”

“It was a spontaneous rally against the war because people are tired and they have no place to go,” one witness said. “Many chanted slogans against Hamas, not all people, but many ... people are exhausted and no one should blame them.”

Senior Hamas official Basem Naim said people had the right to protest but denounced what he said were “suspicious political agendas” exploiting the suffering caused by the war.

The displaced

“In just one week, 142,000 people have been displaced,” the spokesman for Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said, pointing out that about 90 percent of Gaza’s population has been displaced at least once between the start of the war on October 7, 2023 and January of this year.

The space available for families is “shrinking,” he said, adding that displacement orders currently cover some 17 percent of Gaza.

With each wave of displacement, thousands of people “lose not just their shelter, but also access to essentials such as food, drinking water and health care,” said the spokesman, Stephane Dujarric.

The “relentless bombardments and daily displacement orders” coupled with blocks on aid “are having a devastating impact on the entire population of more than two million people,” he said.

“Our humanitarian partners are warning that as a result, medical stocks, cooking gas and fuel needed to power bakeries and ambulances are running dangerously low.”

Source:arabnews.com

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Palestinians protest Hamas in a rare public show of dissent in Gaza

March 26, 2025

CAIRO: Thousands of Palestinians marched between the wreckage of a heavily destroyed town in northern Gaza on Wednesday in the second day of anti-war protests, with many chanting against Hamas in a rare display of public anger against the militant group.

The protests, which centered mainly on Gaza’s north, appeared to be aimed generally against the war, with protesters calling for an end to 17 months of deadly fighting with Israel that has made life in Gaza insufferable.

But the public calls against Hamas, which has long repressed dissent and still rules the territory months into the war with Israel, were rare.

In the town of Beit Lahiya, where a similar protest took place Tuesday, about 3,000 people demonstrated, with many chanting “the people want the fall of Hamas.” In the hard-hit Shijaiyah neighborhood of Gaza City, dozens of men chanted “Out, out out! Hamas get out!”

“Our children have been killed. Our houses have been destroyed,” said Abed Radwan, who said he joined the protest in Beit Lahiya “against the war, against Hamas, and the (Palestinian political) factions, against Israel and against the world’s silence.”

Ammar Hassan, who took part in a protest Tuesday, said it started as an anti-war protest with a few dozen people but swelled to more than 2,000, with people chanting against Hamas.

“It’s the only party we can affect,” he said by phone. “Protests won’t stop the (Israeli) occupation, but it can affect Hamas.”

The militant group has violently cracked down on previous protests. This time no outright intervention was apparent, perhaps because Hamas is keeping a lower profile since Israel resumed its war against it.

Senior Hamas official Bassem Naim, in a post on Facebook, wrote that people had the right to protest but that their focus should be on the “criminal aggressor,” Israel.

’We want to stop the killing’

Family elders from Beit Lahiya expressed support for the protests against Israel’s renewed offensive and its tightened blockade on all supplies into Gaza. Their statement said the community fully supports armed resistance against Israel.

“The protest was not about politics. It was about people’s lives,” said Mohammed Abu Saker, a father of three from the nearby town of Beit Hanoun, who joined a demonstration Tuesday.

“We want to stop the killing and displacement, no matter the price. We can’t stop Israel from killing us, but we can press Hamas to give concessions,” he said.

A similar protest occurred in the heavily destroyed area of Jabaliya on Tuesday, according to witnesses.

One protester in Jabaliya, who spoke on condition of anonymity for fear of retribution, said they joined the demonstration because “everyone failed us.”

They said they chanted against Israel, Hamas, the Western-backed Palestinian Authority and Arab mediators. They said there were no Hamas security forces at the protest but scuffles broke out between supporters and opponents of the group.

Later, they said they regretted participating because of Israeli media coverage, which emphasized the opposition to Hamas.

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz urged Palestinians to join the protests.

“You too should demand the removal of Hamas from Gaza and the immediate release of all Israeli hostages. That is the only way to stop the war,” he said.

A 19-year-old Palestinian, who also spoke on condition of anonymity for fear of retribution said he planned to join demonstrations on Wednesday. His mother has cancer and his 10-year-old brother is hospitalized with cerebral palsy, and he said the family has been displaced multiple times since their home was destroyed.

“People are angry at the whole world,” including the United States, Israel and Hamas, he said. “We want Hamas to resolve this situation, return the hostages and end this whole thing.”

Renewed fighting

The protests erupted a week after Israel ended its ceasefire with Hamas by launching a surprise wave of strikes that killed hundreds of people. Earlier this month, Israel halted deliveries of food, fuel, medicine and humanitarian aid to Gaza’s roughly 2 million Palestinians.

Israel has vowed to escalate the war until Hamas returns the 59 hostages it still holds — 24 of them believed to be alive. Israel is also demanding that the group give up power, disarm and send its leaders into exile.

Hamas has said it will only release the remaining captives in exchange for Palestinian prisoners, a lasting ceasefire and an Israeli withdrawal from Gaza.

The war was triggered by Hamas’ Oct. 7, 2023, attack into Israel, in which Palestinian militants killed some 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and abducted 251.

Israel’s retaliatory offensive has killed over 50,000 people, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry. Israel’s bombardment and ground operations have caused vast destruction and at their height displaced some 90 percent of Gaza’s population.

Hamas won a landslide victory in the last Palestinian elections, held in 2006. It seized power in Gaza from the Western-backed Palestinian Authority, dominated by the secular Fatah movement, the following year after months of factional unrest and a week of heavy street battles.

Source:arabnews.com

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Palestinian Endowments: Enemy refuses to hand over entire Ibrahimi Mosque on Night of Power

26 Mar 2025

Palestinian Minister of Endowments and Religious Affairs, Sheikh Muhammad Mustafa Najm, confirmed that the Zionist enemy refuses to hand over the Ibrahimi Mosque, including its corridors, courtyards, and all its sections, as is customary, on the blessed Night of Power.

He said in a statement today, Wednesday, that the enemy refuses to open the eastern gate for the fourth time during the holy month of Ramadan, and keeps sections of the Mosque open to Muslims without receiving the official administration of the Ibrahimi Mosque, which does not recognize the handover of the Mosque without one of its important main parts and sections.

He explained that what the enemy is doing at the Ibrahimi Mosque is arbitrary behavior and a dangerous precedent in this blessed place. It is a clear provocation of Muslim sentiments and a clear disregard for the sanctity of the holy month of Ramadan and the Ibrahimi Mosque.

Minister Najm called on the Palestinian people to gather and remain at the Ibrahimi Mosque to affirm the Palestinian Islamic presence there, as this is the best way to confront this usurping enemy in these difficult and harsh times.

Source:saba.ye

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Speech event in Dhamar on Imam Ali martyrdom anniversary, National Steadfastness Day & International Al-Quds Day

26 Mar 2025

The local authority and the General Mobilization Division in Al-Hayma Interior District, Sana'a Province, organized on Wednesday a speech event to commemorate the martyrdom anniversary of the Commander of the Faithful, Imam Ali bin Abi Talib, peace be upon him, and the National Resilience Day and International Al-Quds Day.

In the event organized by the educational sector in the directorate, the head of the educational sector in the province, Talib Dahan, stressed the importance of reviving the last days and nights of the blessed month of Ramadan by increasing the remembrance of God, drawing closer to Him through obedience and worship, doing good deeds, inspecting the poor and embodying the social solidarity urged by the true Islamic religion.

For his part, Directorate Director Kamal Al-Askari pointed out the significance of commemorating the martyrdom of the Commander of the Faithful, Imam Ali, peace be upon him, in conjunction with the National Day of Steadfastness and the International Al-Quds Day, to consolidate the values of sacrifice, courage and jihad in the souls and the lessons learned in strengthening steadfastness and consolidating its foundations to face the American aggression against the homeland and continue to support Gaza.

For his part, the head of the educational sector in the directorate, Abdulkarim Al-Qaraafi, considered the holy month of Ramadan an educational station that reinforces the principles and values of the true Islamic religion, which combines jihad of the soul, jihad with money and soul, to achieve human justice, support the oppressed, and live in freedom and peace.

He touched on the programs and activities that contribute to preparing a generation capable of meeting the requirements of the present and the future.

Source:saba.ye

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PM: "we do not want orphans to be a broken model"

26 Mar 2025

Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani affirmed on Wednesday that orphans are the responsibility of the state and society, while noting that the government does not want orphans to be a broken model.

The Prime Minister's media office said in a statement received by the Iraqi News Agency (INA): "Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani received this evening, Wednesday, the orphans of the Iraqi Creativity House Foundation, managed by Hisham al-Dhahabi, and joined them for an iftar banquet during the holy month of Ramadan."

The Prime Minister praised "the efforts of those in charge of the Iraqi Creativity House Foundation, and the social performance it represents in serving orphans, developing their capabilities, encouraging them to give more, integrate, and working to provide a healthy environment for them."

The Prime Minister explained that "orphans are the responsibility of the state and society, and the government is working to ensure that this segment receives its due status and opportunity, as it is a youth segment upon which hopes are pinned for integration into the ranks of work, creativity, and capacity development." He noted that "we do not want the orphan to be a broken model, but rather to hold his head high and be proud that all the good people in society and all those with generous hands are his family and relatives."

Source:ina.iq

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Trump: Houthi attacks will continue for long time

March 27, 2025

US airstrikes against the Houthis in Yemen will continue for a long time, President Donald Trump said Wednesday.

His comments came shortly after Houthi media said new US strikes had hit the capital Sanaa, AFP reported. Earlier reports said there had been 19 US raids elsewhere in Yemen.

The US said it was launching a military offensive against the Houthis on March 15, to stop the group attacking shipping in the Red Sea - a key global trade route.

The militant Iran-backed group started the attacks after the start of the Gaza war, claimig they were acting in solidarity with Palestinians.

Source:arabnews.com

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Cultural Evening in Khawlan, Sana’a, commemorating martyrdom of Imam Ali (AS)

26 Mar 2025

The local council of Khawlan District in Sana’a Governorate, in coordination with the district’s mobilization committee, organized a cultural evening marking the martyrdom anniversary of Imam Ali (AS) under the theme "I have triumphed, by the Lord of the Kaaba."

During the event in Bani Tarmous, Al-Aroosh, educational sector official Talib Dahan emphasized the importance of commemorating this occasion to highlight Imam Ali’s virtues, courage, and struggles in defending Islam. District director Raad Al-Jamali spoke about Imam Ali’s noble qualities, stressing the need to follow his example in confronting global oppression, particularly the U.S. and Israel.

The speakers, including local officials, underscored the importance of drawing lessons from Imam Ali’s life, reinforcing steadfastness against aggression, and condemning the U.S. attacks on Yemen in support of Israeli crimes against Palestinians.

They reaffirmed that U.S. aggression targeting civilians and infrastructure will not deter Yemen’s unwavering support for Gaza and the Palestinian resistance.

Source:saba.ye

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Iraq gives British Petroleum final green light to redevelop Kirkuk oilfields

March 27, 2025

LONDON: BP has received final government approval for the redevelopment of Iraq’s giant Kirkuk oil fields, with an initial plan to produce 3 billion barrels of oil equivalent, the company said on Wednesday.

The project is a breakthrough for Iraq, where output has been constrained by years of war, corruption and sectarian tensions, and a cornerstone of BP’s drive to refocus on its oil and gas business and away from renewables.

Tuesday’s signing of a final agreement on the project between BP CEO Murray Auchincloss and Iraq’s Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani follows an initial deal signed last month and a memorandum of understanding last year.

BP said its remuneration will be linked to incremental production volumes, price and costs, and that the company will be able to book a share of output and reserves “proportionate to the fees it earns for helping to increase production.”

The first phase of the redevelopment of the Kirkuk fields, which BP first helped to discover in the 1920s, will cover their Baba and Avanah domes and three adjacent fields Bai Hassan, Jambur and Khabbaz, BP said.

A new operator will be set up, including staff from Iraq’s North Oil Company (NOC) and North Gas Company (NGC) as well as people seconded from BP.

Source:arabnews.com

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Nearly 200,000 Palestinians perform prayers at Al-Aqsa Mosque

March 26, 2025

LONDON: Nearly 200,000 Palestinians performed evening and Taraweeh prayers on Wednesday, the 26th day of Ramadan, at Al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem.

It is one of the highest numbers of worshippers recorded at Al-Aqsa during Ramadan by the Jerusalem Waqf and Al-Aqsa Mosque Affairs Department, which is responsible for managing the site.

The organization reported that 180,000 people attended the evening and Taraweeh prayers, despite Israel’s restrictive measures in Jerusalem, with thousands of worshippers choosing to stay at Al-Aqsa Mosque overnight to commemorate Laylat Al-Qadr, also known as the Night of Power.

Muslims consider Laylat Al-Qadr to be the holiest night in the Islamic calendar as it marks the occasion when the first verses of the Qur’an were revealed to the Prophet Muhammad. Laylat Al-Qadr occurs during the last 10 days of Ramadan, a period when many Muslims fully dedicate themselves to worship.

Upon the conclusion of Ramadan on Saturday or Sunday, majority-Muslim countries celebrate the holiday of Eid Al-Fitr over three days, marking the festivities of breaking the fast with family visits and trips.

Source:arabnews.com

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Is US pressure on Iraq over reliance on Iranian electricity a blessing in disguise?

NADIA AL-FAOUR & ROBERT EDWARDS

March 26, 2025

DUBAI/LONDON: Iraq has long had to balance its relationships between competing regional powers, particularly Iran and the Gulf states. Now, with renewed US harrying of Iraq to stop buying gas and electricity from Iran, Baghdad could be drawn further into the Arab orbit.

On March 8, the US State Department said it was not renewing a sanctions waiver that had allowed Iraq to import Iranian electricity. The waiver, initially introduced in 2018 after the US withdrew from the Iran nuclear deal, has been a lifeline for Iraq’s struggling power grid.

Despite its vast oil and gas wealth, years of conflict, corruption, and underinvestment have left Iraq highly dependent on Iranian gas and direct electricity imports to meet its energy needs. Power outages are commonplace, especially in the scorching summer months.

The US decision came as part of President Donald Trump’s “maximum pressure” campaign on Iran, which is “designed to end Iran’s nuclear threat, curtail its ballistic missile program and stop it from supporting terrorist groups,” according to a statement from the US Embassy in Baghdad.

“We urge the Iraqi government to eliminate its dependence on Iranian sources of energy as soon as possible, and welcome the Iraqi prime minister’s commitment to achieve energy independence,” the statement added.

In a call with Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ Al-Sudani on March 9, US National Security Adviser Mike Waltz encouraged Baghdad to welcome more Western and US energy companies into Iraq’s oil and gas sectors.

According to a readout from that call, Waltz also urged the Iraqi government to work with the semi-autonomous Kurdistan Regional Government of northern Iraq to address remaining contract disputes over energy and to pay arrears owed to US energy companies.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi took to social media on March 10 to criticize the US move, saying it targeted the people of Iraq by attempting to deprive them of access to basic services such as electricity, particularly ahead of the approaching summer months.

With the waiver rescinded, it remains unclear whether Iraq will be permitted to continue importing gas from Iran to feed its power plants. Indeed, some 43 percent of the country’s electricity is generated from Iranian gas.

On March 12, Farhad Alaaeldin, the Iraqi prime minister’s foreign affairs adviser, told a local TV channel that the waiver guaranteed by the US on the import of gas was still in effect — and that only the exemption on imported power has been canceled.

Alaaeldin said the US was, for now at least, merely encouraging Iraq to secure gas from other sources. “The American administration says … diversify your import sources. Go to other countries,” he said.

The US Embassy statement asserted that electricity imports from Iran represent only 4 percent of electricity consumption in Iraq.

But a spokesperson for Iraq’s Ministry of Electricity, Ahmad Moussa, told the Associated Press that should gas imports also be forbidden, it “would cause Iraq to lose more than 30 percent of its electricity energy.”

Although this renewed pressure on Baghdad has officials scrambling to find alternatives, it arguably presents an opportunity for Iraq to pivot toward the Gulf states, integrate into the Arab fold, and thereby reduce its reliance on Tehran.

The question now is whether the Iraqi government will seize the moment to achieve energy independence or remain tethered to Iran’s energy infrastructure.

Achieving true energy independence will not be easy.

In 2022, Iran exported 3.5 terawatt hours of electricity to Iraq through four transmission lines. Iraq also imports up to 50 million cubic meters of gas per day from Iran. The neighbors signed a five-year extension to their gas export agreement in March 2024.

Talks on Iranian gas exports to Iraq began in the second half of 2010, shortly after the US military withdrawal following the 2003 invasion, leading to the signing of a supply agreement for Baghdad in July 2013. A contract for gas exports to Basra was signed in November 2015.

Iraq spends about $4 billion annually on Iranian energy, but US sanctions have delayed the country’s ability to make timely payments, leading to substantial debt accumulation, estimated at $11 billion.

To settle this debt, Iraq proposed an oil-for-gas deal in 2023, allowing it to repay Iran with crude. However it chooses to make these repayments, this significant debt burden poses a further challenge to severing links.

According to Iraq’s Parliamentary Oil, Gas and Natural Resources Committee, securing alternative sources of energy has proven difficult, with past diversification efforts delayed by bureaucracy and political resistance from Iran-backed factions in Baghdad.

Despite the challenges, Iraq has begun taking concrete steps toward integrating with the Gulf Cooperation Council’s energy network. An Oct. 9, 2024, agreement to connect Iraq to the GCC Interconnection Authority marked a significant milestone.

The GCCIA was originally established to link the power grids of Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE. Iraq’s inclusion in this grid would not only reduce its reliance on Iranian gas but also enhance regional energy cooperation.

Under the agreement, Iraq will receive 500 megawatts of electricity through transmission lines from Kuwait’s Al-Wafra station to Al-Faw in Basra. A separate deal with Saudi Arabia is expected to add another 1,000 megawatts to Iraq’s power supply.

Given its own significant domestic energy challenges, including infrastructure problems and environmental factors such as droughts that have reduced its hydroelectric output, there is even a case to be made for Iran benefitting from integration into the broader GCCIA grid.

Elsewhere, Iraq has partnered with Saudi Arabia’s ACWA Power, the UAE’s Masdar, and France’s TotalEnergies to develop solar power plants, although these projects are still years away from completion.

Beyond the Gulf grid, Iraq is pursuing additional measures to reduce its dependence on Iranian energy, including an agreement with Turkmenistan in October 2023 to import 20 million cubic meters of gas per day.

Meanwhile, a 115-km transmission line with Turkiye now supplies 300 megawatts of electricity to northern Iraq. Iraq is also building a liquefied natural gas terminal in Al-Faw with a storage capacity of 300,000 cubic meters.

Despite these efforts, Iraq’s transition away from Iranian energy still faces major hurdles.

“The current production of domestic gas cannot replace Iranian imports at this stage, as achieving self-sufficiency requires several years of development and investment,” Iraqi economic analyst Nabil Al-Marsoumi said in a recent social media post.

Even as Iraq moves toward energy diversification, Iran is unlikely to relinquish its grip without resistance.

Tehran exerts significant political influence in Baghdad through Iran-backed militias and Shiite political factions. These groups view stronger GCC ties as a threat to their dominance and have historically opposed efforts to reduce Iraqi dependence on Iranian energy.

Prime Minister Al-Sudani initially sought a waiver extension until 2028, arguing that Iraq needed more time to secure alternative energy sources. However, under US pressure, he ultimately relented and announced Iraq’s compliance with sanctions.

His decision sparked criticism from pro-Iranian factions within Iraq, further illustrating the political tightrope he must walk.

Ordinary Iraqis, meanwhile, remain skeptical. Many citizens believe their leaders are beholden to Iran’s interests rather than prioritizing national energy security.

“As long as those in power remain loyal to Iran, they will do whatever it takes to keep us reliant on it,” Modhar, a Baghdad-based driver, told Arab News.

For Gulf states, deepening energy ties with Iraq presents both opportunities and risks. A more integrated Iraq could serve as a bridge between the Arab world and Iran, facilitating broader regional cooperation.

Additionally, stronger economic ties with Baghdad could help Gulf economies diversify their own economies beyond oil exports.

However, Gulf countries must also navigate Iraq’s internal political landscape carefully. Any overt effort to pull Iraq away from Iran risks provoking retaliation from Iran-backed militias, which have launched attacks on US and Gulf interests in the past.

That said, energy interdependence has the potential to be a stabilizing factor. As regional energy demand grows, a Gulf-wide electricity grid that includes Iraq could provide a reliable supply and reduce dependence on volatile suppliers like Iran.

With the GCC currently producing 272 gigawatts of electricity, a fully integrated power grid could transform Iraq’s economy and cement its position within the Arab fold. How Iraq responds in the coming months will define its future for years to come.

The suspension of the US sanctions waiver has forced Baghdad to confront its reliance on Iranian energy. While the road to energy independence is fraught with challenges, Iraq’s deepening ties with the GCC present a viable alternative.

Whether Iraq can successfully integrate into the GCC’s energy network while balancing its relationship with Iran remains to be seen. However, if Baghdad seizes this historic opportunity, it could finally achieve the energy security and regional influence it has long sought.

As Al-Marsoumi warned: “Key energy projects remain years away from completion.” But the long-term potential of Iraq’s pivot to the GCC is undeniable.

The coming months will determine whether Iraq charts a new course toward the Arab world — or remains in Iran’s shadow.

Source:arabnews.com

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Aoun calls on French envoy to pressure Israel

NAJIA HOUSSARI

March 26, 2025

BEIRUT: Lebanese President Joseph Aoun has called on the sponsors of the ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hezbollah to “pressure Israel to abide by it in order to maintain their credibility and ensure the implementation of what was agreed upon to restore stability.”

Aoun met France’s presidential envoy, Jean-Yves Le Drian, on Wednesday. Le Drian is visiting Lebanon as part of preparations for the French-Lebanese summit set to be held next Friday at the Elysee Palace.

According to the presidential media office, Aoun assured the French envoy that he is “determined, along with the government, to overcome the difficulties that may hinder Lebanon’s reform process in the economic, banking, financial, and judicial sectors, and to find appropriate solutions in cooperation with the relevant parties.”

Aoun said: “The administrative measures that will be taken will send a positive message both domestically and internationally.”

The president also clarified that he will raise during the Paris summit “topics of mutual interest and ways to strengthen and develop Lebanese-French relations.”

Le Drian also met with Prime Minister Nawaf Salam, parliament speaker Nabih Berri, and Foreign Minister Youssef Rajji.

In a statement, he reaffirmed “France’s continuous support for Lebanon and its stability.”

He praised “the inaugural speech of the president and the vision it presented for Lebanon, as well as the seriousness of the Lebanese government's work,” highlighting “the importance of maintaining the international momentum that accompanied the new presidency and the formation of the government by implementing the necessary reforms and preserving Lebanese unity to enhance the confidence of the international and Arab communities in Lebanon and attract investments to the country.”

Salam said that “the purpose of the French envoy’s visit is to discuss reconstruction,” but warned that “no one in Lebanon wants normalization with Israel.”

He said the “international and Arab diplomatic pressure on Israel to cease its aggressions has not been exhausted,” but expressed concern over the situation in the south “in light of the ongoing Israeli attacks, especially following the rocket launch that occurred last week.”

Salam said the “five hills that Israel insists on retaining hold no military or security value, except for maintaining pressure on Lebanon.”

He rejected “all Israeli talk regarding the displacement of residents from Gaza and the West Bank, as well as the establishment of a Palestinian state outside of historical Palestine,” emphasizing the “importance of rallying Arab and international support to confront this project.”

The premier received a call last Monday from Morgan Ortagus, deputy special envoy of the US to the Middle East, following the escalation in the south due to unidentified rockets being fired from southern Lebanon toward the Metula settlement in Israel.

A source in Salam’s office told Arab News: “Ortagus assured Salam that she is closely monitoring the situation in Lebanon and will be making a visit to the country soon, but no specific date has been provided.”

Meanwhile, the visit scheduled for Wednesday by Lebanese Defense Minister Michel Mounir to Damascus to meet with his Syrian counterpart, Murhaf Abu Qasra, has been canceled.

The source from Salam’s office said that “the PM’s office was informed on Tuesday night that the visit had been postponed.”

It added that “this is attributed to the delayed announcement of the new Syrian government, which will lead to changes in the distribution of responsibilities, particularly the official in charge of the security file with Lebanon.”

On the ground, an Israeli drone carried out two strikes on Al-Shaara, near the eastern mountain range between Lebanon and Syria.

Israeli media outlets stated that “the Israeli Air Defense bombed two targets east of Lebanon.”

Reconnaissance planes continue to violate Lebanon’s airspace, reaching Baalbek and Bekaa.

The Israeli military started on Tuesday a field maneuver in western Galilee and the Lebanese border area, which will last until Thursday.

Israeli Army spokesperson Avichay Adraee said that the military exercise will include “training on different scenarios, namely protecting the area and responding to immediate threats in the field with multifaceted cooperation.”

He added that “the exercise has been planned under the 2025 annual deposition plan,” noting that “there is no fear of security incidents.”

Source:arabnews.com

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Erbil: commemorating “Laylat al-Qadr”

2025-03-27

Shafaq News/ A large group of worshippers gathered at Hajiya Makiya Mosque in Erbil to observe Laylat al-Qadr, the Night of Decree, in a spiritually charged atmosphere.

Exclusive photos taken by Shafaq News showed dozens of locals arriving at the mosque to perform prayers and recite the Qur'an.

The event saw a notable turnout across different age groups.

Meanwhile, the mosque's administration implemented organizational measures to ensure smooth entry and exit for the worshippers.

Source:shafaq.com

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Junior Ramadan Football League concludes in Sana'a districts

 27 Mar 2025

Ramadan Football League for junior players in New Sana'a and Sanhan districts has concluded, coinciding with the National Day of Resilience. The league, themed "If You Return, We Will Return," was organized by the Sana'a province Youth and Sports Office.

The 20-day league featured 12 teams divided into four groups. In the final match, al-Falah "Bilal's Descendants" from New Sana'a defeated al-Fateh from Sanhan 5-1.

Abdulmohsen al-Sharif, Director of the Province's Youth and Sports Office, stated that the league included cultural activities to reinforce faith identity among young players, as well as preparations for upcoming summer courses.

The closing ceremony saw al-Falah team awarded the league cup and gold medals, al-Fateh team receiving silver medals, and the organizing committee presented with certificates of appreciation.

Source:saba.ye

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Under HM King's patronage, 111 male winners awarded in Bahrain Holy Quran Grand Prize

 27 Mar 2025

Manama, Mar. 27 (BNA): Under the patronage of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, the Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (SCIA), in cooperation with the Ministry of Justice, Islamic Affairs and Endowments, held the annual ceremony marking Laylat Al Qadr and the closing event of the 29th edition of the Bahrain Holy Quran Grand Prize. The event was attended by Shaikh Abdulrahman bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Khalifa, President of the SCIA.

Shaikh Abdulrahman bin Mohammed expressed gratitude to His Majesty the King for his patronage of the ceremony and the award. He emphasised that His Majesty’s continued interest in Islamic events and activities in the Kingdom of Bahrain, particularly Quranic programmes and competitions, reflects a strong commitment to supporting religious values. He added that the Council expressed appreciation for the follow up of Islamic initiatives, particularly those that serve religion and uphold values and principles, such as the service of the Holy Quran, the support of Quranic education centres, and the care extended to its reciters and memorizers.

He congratulated all the winners who achieved top ranks in the 29th edition of the Bahrain Holy Quran Grand Prize, extending congratulations to their families, Quran centres, and affiliated institutions. He wished them continued success in their future paths. He also thanked the Ministry of Interior, the Ministry of Education, and the Ministry of Social Development for their cooperation. He also expressed appreciation to the Ministry of Justice, Islamic Affairs and Endowments, and the General Secretariat of SCIA for their efforts in organising and coordinating the award. He acknowledged the contributions of Quranic centres, supervisors, teachers, and participants.

The ceremony began with a recitation by contestant Hamad Mishaal, who secured second place in the full Quran memorisation category. Shaikh Abdulrahman bin Dharrar Al Shaer, member of the SCIA, delivered a speech highlighting the virtues of the last ten nights of Ramadhan, particularly Laylat Al Qadr. He referenced relevant Quranic verses and prophetic traditions, describing the night as one of great value, during which all wise matters are decreed, and blessings are widespread.

Al Shaer commended the Kingdom’s efforts under the leadership of His Majesty the King in promoting religious identity and values. He said that such efforts have enhanced the council’s role in supporting Islamic teachings and the Quran through various programmes, including the Institute of Quran Recitations and Preparation of Teachers affiliated with the Council.

Shaikh Dr. Suleiman bin Shaikh Mansour Al Sitra, also a member of the council, spoke about the unique virtues of Laylat Al Qadr. He noted that it is better than a thousand months, citing the words of Imam Al Sadiq that righteous deeds on this night surpass those done over a thousand months without Laylat Al Qadr. He described it as a night filled with mercy and peace, encouraging Muslims to observe it with prayer, Quran recitation, supplication, and acts of charity.

He further explained that Surah Al Qadr describes the night as a time of divine peace from dusk to dawn, during which angels descend to write the decrees for the coming year, including livelihood, life spans, and destinies. He noted the connection between the Quran and Laylat Al Qadr, describing the Quran as the primary source of legislation and divine guidance.

Shaikh Abdulrahman bin Mohammed acknowledged the participating entities, including the Ministry of Interior, Ministry of Education, and Ministry of Social Development, as well as the award’s organising and judging committees.

Awards were then presented across seven competition categories to 105 male winners. Additional honours included the family Quran Prize, and individual prizes for the oldest and youngest participants, as well as Dawood’s Flute prize for excellence in recitation, the best local Quran competition prize, while the Shaikh Isa bin Ali Al Khalifa Quran Memorization Centre received the best Quran centre prize.

The ceremony was attended by Shaikh Khalid bin Ali bin Abdulla Al Khalifa, Deputy Chairman of the Supreme Judicial Council and President of the Court of Cassation; Dr. Shaikh Abdulla bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, Minister of Transportation and Telecommunications and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the “King Hamad Global Center for Peaceful Coexistence”; Nawaf bin Mohammed Al Maawda, Minister of Justice, Islamic Affairs and Endowments; Osama bin Saleh Al Alawi, Minister of Social Development; Ahmed Abdulwahid Qarata, Second Deputy Speaker of the Council of Representatives; members of the SCIA; Yusuf bin Saleh Al Saleh, Chairman of the Jaafari Endowments Council; and Ali bin Abdulhussain Al Asfoor, Governor of the Northern Governorate.

A total of 4,242 contestants took part in this year’s edition, including 1,598 males and 2,644 females. The categories included memorisation for Quran centre students, “Bayan” for school students, “Ajran” for persons with disabilities, “Ghufran” for inmates, “Ridhwan” for the general public, “Salman Al Farsi” for non-Arabic speakers, and the recitation and performance category.

Source:bna.bh

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Arab World

 

How Saudi charities amplify Ramadan’s generosity

GHADI JOUDAH

TAMARA ABOALSAUD

March 26, 2025

RIYADH: For Muslims across Saudi Arabia, Ramadan is exemplified by its spirit of reflection and generosity, with a surge in charitable initiatives during the holy month.

Communities rally to fund medical treatments for the sick, sponsor orphans’ education, and equip families with tools to build self-reliance — all fueled by a faith that sees giving as essential.

To safeguard this spiritual momentum, Saudi Arabia has strengthened frameworks ensuring that donations flow securely to causes that transform lives.

The Presidency of State Security has underscored how donations must be made through official channels.

For international donations, the agency emphasized that the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Centre (KSrelief) remains the sole authorized entity, adding that violations would be met with legal consequences per the Kingdom’s laws.

Among the approved organizations driving this Ramadan’s charitable momentum is the Charitable Society for Orphans Care (Ensan), a Riyadh-based organization dedicated to orphan welfare, which empowers mothers and children to rebuild their lives.

Mohammed Al-Muharib, director-general of Ensan, told Arab News that “Ramadan is a blessed month marked by increased charitable giving and virtuous deeds.”

He spoke about how the organization leverages this spiritual momentum to support orphans through initiatives like Eid Gift Packages, which are designed to “bring joy and share the happiness of Eid” with children.

Rather than traditional meal distributions, Ensan prioritizes direct financial empowerment, depositing funds for Ramadan Baskets into families’ accounts — a method Al-Muharib described as aligning with modern, dignified aid.

While healthcare and education remain the core focus of Ensan’s year-round work, Al-Muharib noted that Ramadan sharpens their focus.

“Education and healthcare are part of our year-round programs, but they receive heightened focus during Ramadan,” he explained.

He linked this to Saudi Arabia’s broader vision of communal solidarity, framing empowerment as a tool to break cycles of dependency.

For time-sensitive projects like Eid gifts and iftar gatherings, Al-Muharib stressed urgency. “We run the Eid Gift Project for Ensan’s children by depositing gift funds into families’ accounts,” he said, urging donors to contribute via Ensan’s official platforms.

He also highlighted partnerships with community stakeholders as critical to fulfilling what he termed a “shared social responsibility,” echoing the article’s theme of collective action.

The cirector general reiterated Ensan’s commitment to accountability. “Ensan prioritizes transparency in all programs and services, earning awards for accountability,” he said, referencing post-Ramadan statistical reports that detail expenditures and outcomes.

Founded in 1981, Al-Bir Society in Jeddah provides social services for families, orphans, and kidney failure patients.

As of March 17, 2025, the society reported significant milestones. Its Hisham Attar and Abdulkarim Bakr Medical Centers have conducted over 660,000 dialysis sessions using more than 70 machines, supplemented by psychological, health, and social services for patients.

The society supports more than 37,000 families through rehabilitation, job training, and project funding to enhance self-reliance.

It also cares for 14,000 orphans within their families and 1,100 in residential facilities, offering comprehensive educational, health, and recreational support.

Another charity with longstanding service the people of Saudi Arabia is Qatif Charity, an organization that has been operating for over 60 years.

Qatif Charity specializes in providing social services, aiming to improve the economic, social, and health standards of its beneficiaries.

Today, the organization supports around 1,300 students, including 201 university students, with 22 students graduating this year.

Qatif Charity has also supported a total of 370 families and 500 orphans, with over 70 projects under its belt.

Osama Al-Zayer, president of the charity, told Arab News that “the organization’s Ramadan programs begin before the arrival of the holy month.”

Qatif Charity distributes Ramadan food baskets to all of its beneficiaries. The organization initiates charitable programs including the Friday Charity, the Night of Decree (Laylat Al-Qadr) Charity, and Zakat Al-Fitr.

“These programs ensure that donations reach those in need in an organized manner, creating a positive and lasting impact,” Al-Zayer said, adding that these charitable contributions support programs such as education, healthcare, housing, and infrastructure development.

The organization also runs the Fawanees (Lanterns) Program, where selected words and sayings from the teachings and sermons of the Prophet Muhammad are written across lanterns and distributed online.

Two of its Ramadan campaigns, “Eid Joy” and “Eid Clothing,” ensure that beneficiary families experience the festive spirit of Eid without worry.

“Every contribution, whether small or large, supports the organization and strengthens its diverse programs,” he added.

To facilitate donations, the organization has launched an online donation platform.

“Giving is deeply rooted in our society’s religious and social values, fostering generosity, selflessness, and the support of others in need,” Al-Zayer said.

“The organization embodies this noble trait within our community by assisting the poor and orphans who require help.”

The essence of generosity and kindness is particularly evident during Ramadan due to its religious significance as a month of mercy, goodness, and generosity, Al-Zayer noted.

“It is a time when the charitable spirit of our community shines, as people actively engage in supporting and helping others.”

In the southern region of Asir, an initiative named Ajaweed carried out charitable visits to provide healthcare at patients’ homes including vaccinations, laboratory analyses, and delivery of prescriptions throughout the month.

Together, these are some of the organizations that exemplify the Kingdom’s vision of structured, impactful philanthropy.

Source:arabnews.com

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New initiative launched to boost agroforestry in Saudi Arabia

March 27, 2025

RIYADH: The National Center for Vegetation Cover Development and Combating Desertification has launched the Agroforestry Action Plan Development Project to enhance environmental sustainability, social development and economic growth.

The project assesses agroforestry conditions, applies global best practices and promotes investment for sustainable forest management, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

Aligned with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, it supports environmental sustainability and combats desertification, the SPA added.

As part of the project, the center will activate its December 2024 memorandum with the Center for International Forestry Research and World Agroforestry to enhance research collaboration and implement advanced agroforestry techniques.

The initiative aims to restore land, expand vegetation, protect habitats and reduce carbon emissions. It also fosters resilient forest ecosystems and improves forest areas across the Kingdom.

Additionally, the center is advancing sustainable forests through its initiative to plant 60 million trees, rehabilitating 300,000 hectares by 2030.

Source:arabnews.com

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Ithra to host three-day Eid Al-Fitr festivities

March 27, 2025

DHAHRAN: The King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture in Dhahran will host more than 25 Eid Al-Fitr events from March 31 to April 2, featuring exhibitions, performances, and interactive activities.

The program includes an exhibition showcasing eight master artisans in papermaking, calligraphy, and ornamentation. Visitors can explore an installation inspired by mudbrick architecture and traditional palm-based crafts.

At the Children’s Museum, activities include an immersive Eid celebration and workshops such as “Balloon Art,” “Eid in a Bag,” and “The Scent of Eid.”

Families can enjoy the “Eid Wheel” game and storytelling sessions where children create their own cloud keepsake.

Other experiences include “Eid Echoes,” a 360-degree audio journey capturing the festive sounds of Eid, set in the plaza. The library will host Eid-themed storytime.

The “Eid on the Big Screen” program will feature global cinema and Japanese anime, including “The Wind Rises,” “Chibi Maruko-chan,” and “A Mosquito.”

Visitors can also explore an AI-powered interactive display and a vitual reality journey through historical Eid celebrations. Live oud performances will take place in Ithra’s gardens, creating a festive open-air concert.

Lush Garden will offer a vibrant space with games and challenges for families and children to enjoy Eid’s joyful atmosphere. The “Energy Exhibit” will also feature special Eid programming for kids of all ages.

Source:arabnews.com

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Smart solutions make life easier for growing pilgrim numbers at Grand Mosque

TAREQ AL-THAQAFI

March 26, 2025

MAKKAH: The safety, comfort and experience of millions of pilgrims at the Grand Mosque will be better than ever, thanks to the General Authority for the Care of the Two Holy Mosques harnessing advanced technology and improving its strategic oversight.

At the heart of the transformation is a command center which gives the authority a comprehensive overview of operations. Advanced sensors at key entrances track pilgrim numbers in real time, enabling precise crowd monitoring and management in collaboration with relevant authorities.

A camera system captures real-time entry movements, providing instantaneous insights into pilgrim flows and pinpointing potential congestion risks. This dual-system approach has transformed crowd control within the mosque and is particularly effective in critical areas such as the Tawaf and Sa’i routes.

The system enables seamless crowd control during peak periods, facilitating smooth entry and exit processes. By leveraging precise and historical data, it ensures decision-makers can make swift, informed choices.

Over 200 digital panels have also been installed to improve spatial navigation, helping pilgrims move more efficiently through the mosque complex.

The number of electric golf carts has been expanded to 400, as well as custom-designed manual carts being available. This meets the diverse needs of pilgrims during the season, ensuring comfortable and seamless transportation that simplifies the performance of religious rituals.

A huge cooling infrastructure spans the sacred space, utilizing 155,000 tonnes of refrigeration to maintain perfect ambient temperatures across the Grand Mosque. Balanced lighting illuminates every corner, while a precision audio system ensures that calls to prayer and religious services resonate with clarity. A new luggage storage service also offers secure, QR-coded smart tags for easy tracking and retrieval of belongings.

The authority maintains rigorous standards and conducts periodic updates as part of efforts to maintain service efficiency and accommodate the growing number of pilgrims.

Source:arabnews.com

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Haramain High-Speed Railway transports highest number of passengers in a single day since its launch

March 26, 2025

JEDDAH: Saudi Arabia’s Haramain High-Speed Railway has transported the highest number of passengers in a single day since its inauguration in 2018.

The Saudi Railway Company reported transporting about 48,000 passengers in a single day on the 15th of Ramadan.

Since the beginning of Ramadan in March, average daily ridership has surpassed 39,000 passengers, showing a strong demand for the Haramain services as the quickest way to reach Makkah.

The railway serves worshippers, Umrah and Hajj pilgrims year-round, connecting Makkah and Madinah and passing through Jeddah, King Abdulaziz International Airport and King Abdullah Economic City.

The SAR has gradually increased the number of trips since the start of Ramadan, reaching 130 trips a day during the last 10 days to accommodate Umrah performers, worshippers and visitors to the holy sites.

SAR has adjusted train schedules to align with peak times for worshippers and visitors during Ramadan and has provided additional lounges at the Madinah station to enhance the travel experience.

The railway operates on a 453-km electric line and ranks among the top 10 fastest trains in the world, with an operational speed of up to 300 km/h, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

Source:arabnews.com

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Makkah Grand Mosque's skyline seen without cranes for first time in 15 years

March 26, 2025

MAKKAH — In an incredible scene unseen in one and a half decades, the Grand Mosque in Makkah witnessed the removal of the remaining cranes after almost completing the largest ever expansion in its history.

Since the start of work on the Third Saudi Expansion in June 2010, these cranes have remained a part of the Grand Mosque's skyline. At present, their removal marks the completion of key phases of the project, which aims to accommodate increasing numbers of worshippers and visitors from around the world. These cranes performed their assigned work on the expansion project, which is more than 95 percent complete. The presence of cranes is therefore not essential to completing the remaining portion of the project.

In the midst of the Haram expansion work, a crane collapse accident occurred, claiming the lives of 111 worshipers and injury to several others. A huge crane crashed in the eastern courtyard of the Grand Mosque on September 11, 2015, causing material damage to the Grand Mosque structure.

With the removal of the last cranes, the Grand Mosque enters a new phase, taking advantage of the full potential of the major expansion. As the Grand Mosque prepares to receive millions of visitors during the Hajj and Umrah seasons, this expansion remains a testament to the tremendous efforts made by Saudi Arabia to ensure Islam's holiest shrine is prepared to welcome its guests in the best possible manner. This is in keeping with its sanctity and its status in the hearts of Muslims around the world, according to a report in Asharq Al-Awsat.

Saad Al-Qurashi, advisor of the National Committee for Hajj and Umrah at the Federation of Saudi Chambers, said that all cranes in the Grand Mosque have been removed. The removal of the cranes is appropriate during these times when Makkah is witnessing a large influx of Umrah pilgrims, he said while emphasizing the importance of the Third Saudi Expansion, which will accommodate more than two million worshippers. He noted that this is compatible with the significant increase in the number of pilgrims, which peaks during the final days of the holy month. "Cooperation between all relevant authorities contributes to the smooth entry and exit of pilgrims after completing the ritual," he pointed out.

The Third Saudi Expansion is the largest ever expansion of the Grand Mosque since the founding of the Saudi state. It aims to increase the capacity of worshippers from 670,000 to more than 1.28 million at a time. The project, initiated by King Abdullah, was undertaken successfully under the guidance and follow up of Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman and Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman. This comes as part of the Saudi leadership's efforts to provide the best ever possible services to the guests of God and ensure their comfort while performing the rituals.

The architectural design of the Third Saudi Expansion reflects the spirit of the place, as the expansion spans a vast area, starting 200 meters from the center of the Holy Kaaba and extending to a depth of 684 meters. This includes a main building housing multiple prayer rooms, in addition to the southern bridges connecting it to the Mataf building, and the northern bridges that facilitate the flow of worshippers. It also includes a vital services building and surrounding plazas, which have been developed to accommodate the largest possible number of visitors.

The expansion project's built-up area increased to 1.564 million square meters, up from 414,000 square meters, doubling the area allocated for prayer to 912,000 square meters. The expansion also saw a significant increase in service facilities, with the number of toilets increasing from 3,515 to 16,726, and ablution facilities from 2,479 to 12,639. The cooling systems were also enhanced, reaching a capacity of 199,000 tons of refrigeration, compared to 39,000 tons earlier.

The expansion building combines modern technology with a rich Islamic style, featuring movable and fixed domes, luxurious glass doors and windows studded with hundreds of crystals, and ornate metal lattices (mashrabiya) that reflect the spirit of Islamic architecture. The building's walls are also decorated with Qur'anic inscriptions spanning an area of 2,700 square meters, lending the space a special spirituality that inspires worshipers upon their entry into the mosque.

Source:saudigazette.com.sa

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Discover Al Muftaha: Abha’s iconic cultural destination this Ramadan

March 26, 2025

Dubai: Al Muftaha District, a cultural and historical landmark in Abha, Saudi Arabia, seamlessly blends heritage with its prime location along Abha Valley. This Ramadan, it has transformed into a vibrant hub, drawing visitors for a unique mix of recreational, artistic, and heritage-focused experiences.

Organised by the Asir Development Authority’s Tourism Destinations Sector, the district’s Ramadan festivities offer diverse activities. Families, both local and visiting, explore the Art Village — established 35 years ago — featuring exhibitions and artistic displays celebrating the region’s creativity.

A key attraction is Al Muftaha’s modern theatre, accommodating over 3,500 people with advanced audiovisual technology. The district also hosts Souq Al Thulatha (Tuesday Market), one of Asir’s oldest traditional souqs, with pedestrian-friendly walkways and open-air stalls selling handicrafts and local goods.

Al Muftaha’s architecture preserves Abha’s traditions, with thick walls, small windows, and "raqf" plaster coatings protecting mud walls from rain and heat. Several historic palaces add to the district's timeless charm.

Historically, Al Muftaha was a sword-making hub. Craftsmen sourced iron-rich rocks from the Al Soudah Mountains, forging swords, daggers, and agricultural tools, preserving a vital aspect of local heritage.

Source:gulfnews.com

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Europe

 

'Right wing extremist' claims he was preparing for a Russian invasion not mosque attack

March 26, 2025

A 25-year-old man from Tingley, Wakefield, accused of stockpiling weapons for a potential mosque attack, claimed in court that he was actually preparing for a Russian invasion. Brogan Stewart, who has been linked to white supremacist ideology, denied planning for a race war, stating: "I believed paratroopers were going to be deployed, and I became extremely paranoid, so I started wearing a bulletproof vest at home."

"I thought they're not just going to stop at Ukraine, they're going to deploy troops in other countries as well. I heard about the Russians committing horrible war crimes. I thought it was going to happen in England as well."

Sheffield Crown Court was told that in January last year, Brogan Stewart created an online group called Einsatz 14, reportedly named after Nazi paramilitary death squads, and stated:

"I intend on dying in a race war." Prosecutors allege he was joined by Marco Pitzettu, 25, from Mickleover, Derby, and Christopher Ringrose, 34, from Cannock, Staffordshire, and that they acquired weapons, including hunting knives and a 3D-printed firearm.

It is claimed the group planned a training session in woodland in Derbyshire as part of their preparation for an attack on the al-Amin Islamic Educational Centre on Mexborough Road, Leeds. Police searching Stewart's home found an arsenal of weapons, including 27 knives, six axes, four swords, three crossbows, and a baseball bat. He also possessed two deactivated machine guns, three deactivated rifles, and three deactivated pistols and had allegedly discussed methods to reactivate them.

Testifying in his defense, Stewart said he began "prepping" at the age of 14 after attending survival lessons with the army cadets. He recalled asking his mother to buy him a Bear Grylls survival kit, which included a survival blanket, water purification tablets, and a multi-tool pen knife.

He later turned to YouTube for survival tips and read books to prepare for a "worst-case scenario" situation, the court heard. When questioned by his lawyer, Sultana Tafada KC, about whether he had been preparing for acts of terrorism, Stewart denied the accusation.

Prosecutors allege that in November 2022, Stewart told other members of a Facebook group: "Need to get more members and safe houses." However, in court, he claimed his comments were inspired by the film Red Dawn, which depicts Russian paratroopers invading a town, prompting a group of teenagers to retreat to the mountains and engage in guerrilla warfare.

The court heard in a message from December 2023, on a Telegram chat group called National Socialist Movement of the United Kingdom, Stewart wrote: "I'm absolutely frothing at the mouth. Went out today with our kid and seen a gang of about 20 f**king p**is apparently fresh from the holding centres.

"Every single one of them had new iPhones and nicer clothes than me. Harassing people for cigarettes and money. I wanna chop their filthy fucking heads off...Not one single woman, all fighting age fit men. Makes me want to puke."

He told his trial that he had been to the B and M store in Morley in West Yorkshire and "saw migrants harassing people, asking for change and stuff like that."

"I think Russia is sending these men over disguised as migrants when in actual fact they are sleeper soldiers, to invade," he added.

All three men deny preparing for acts of terrorism and possessing information that could be useful for terrorism. Additionally, Ringrose denies manufacturing the lower receiver for a 3D-printed firearm, while Pitzettu denies possessing a stun gun.

Presenting the case against the men earlier this month, prosecutor Jonathan Sandiford KC told the jury that Stewart, Pitzettu, and Ringrose had either obtained or attempted to obtain a "wide variety of weapons," including swords, knives, axes, spears, and crossbows.

He stated that the group had also researched explosives and firearms and had attempted to manufacture a 3D-printed semi-automatic firearm as part of their preparations. Sandiford told the court, "The prosecution asserts that these three defendants were right-wing extremists who identified as National Socialists, or Nazis."

The prosecutor further alleged that Stewart had spoken to an undercover officer on the Telegram messaging app, claiming to have what he described as an "information extraction kit." This kit reportedly contained a blowtorch, pliers, gaffer tape, a screwdriver, bleach, and a syringe. Sandiford claimed that Stewart had discussed torturing victims, including "local imams," and had remarked that "nothing loosens up" people "like seeing a syringe filled with bleach."

Source:dazzlingdawn.com

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

https://dazzlingdawn.com/2025/03/26/right-wing-extremist-claims-he-was-preparing-for-a-russian-invasion-not-mosque-attack

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Islamophobia Working Group discriminates against Christians

26 March 2025

The government announced at the end of February, coinciding with the start of Ramadan, that it was setting up a new Working Group tasked with providing the government with a definition of Anti-Muslim Hatred/Islamophobia. I wrote at the time that ‘Anti-Muslim’ is clear and sufficient, and so no new definition is needed.

The fact that the government has even set up a Group to provide a special definition of Anti-Muslim hatred/Islamophobia is in itself discriminatory against all other religions or worldviews. This will give Muslims, and most likely Islam too, special treatment by the government, justifying two-tier policing and two-tier justice by authorities.

Membership of the Group

This week the government has released the membership of the new Group. As already announced, Dominic Grieve KC, former Conservative attorney general, will chair the working group.

He wrote the foreword to the original APPG report proposing the notorious APPG definition of Islamophobia, which has been widely criticised for restricting freedom of speech in relation to Islam. His appointment as chair is not encouraging for those concerned about free speech.

There are only four other members of the Group, far fewer than the 16 members anticipated in the press. Notably, Qari Asim, who was touted as a member of the Group, is not actually a member of the Group. This is a minor victory as we criticised his shortlisting, citing his previous track record of opposition to free speech.

The four members are Professor Javed Khan, Baroness Shaista Gohir, Akeela Ahmed, and Asha Affi. Javed Khan is former CEO of Barnado’s children’s charity.

Shaista Gohir is CEO of Muslim Women’s Network UK. Akeela Ahmed is Co-Chair of the new British Muslim Network along with the notorious Qari Asim. Asha Affi is described as an independent consultant.

In short, there is plenty of charity and campaigning expertise, but little in the way of legal expertise, except for Dominic Grieve KC. All the members are Muslims, so there is no voice for other faith groups in this important Group.

Discriminatory objective

The objective of the Group is:

“To develop a working definition of Anti-Muslim hatred/Islamophobia which is reflective of a wide range of perspectives and priorities for British Muslims.”

Straightaway we see that Muslims are given special treatment. The objective needs to reflect the priorities of British Muslims. It does not need to reflect the priorities of anyone else! Only Muslim views matter here. Don’t expect this Group to consult with anyone else then – they have effectively been told to disregard other views.

Definition must cover non-Muslim victims of Islamophobia

In a somewhat Orwellian manner, the proposed definition of Anti-Muslim Hatred/Islamophobia must protect non-Muslim victims. The Terms of Reference states that Islamophobia can affect non-Muslim communities that are perceived to be Muslim. It states: “communities like Sikh, Hindu, Jain and Buddhists” are “mistakenly identified as Muslim.”

The proposed definition that the Group comes up with must not just cover unacceptable treatment of Muslims, but also of “anyone who is perceived to be Muslim.”

It looks like the definition must therefore include the word ‘perception’ in it so as to include treatment of those “perceived to be Muslim.”  But perception is subjective. This was one of the problems with the notorious APPG definition, which defined Islamophobia as “a type of racism that targets expressions of Muslimness or perceived Muslimness.”

This makes the definition rooted in subjective perception.  This is no way for government definitions to proceed.

A Freedom of Information request from 2017 did find that as many as 25% of recorded ‘Islamophobic hate crimes’ were committed against non-Muslims. The majority of those victims of Islamophobic crimes who were not Muslims, but whose faith was nevertheless known, were actually Christians. Yet the terms of reference for the working group makes no mention of Christians or Christianity.

It is hard not to see this as a deliberate omission given that Christianity is still far and away the largest faith group in Britain. Could they really think Christians can ever be mistaken for Muslims? All of this serves to illustrate just how ill-conceived the whole concept is, and what little regard for Christians and Christianity this government has.

Non-statutory definition

We are told:

“The Group’s proposed definition will be non-statutory and will provide the government and other relevant bodies with an understanding of unacceptable treatment and prejudice against Muslim communities.”

Even though it is non-statutory, this will be used to inform the police and the criminal justice system of what counts as anti-Muslim/Islamophobic. It will have significant influence across society.

The terms of reference also state:

“Any proposed definition must be compatible with the unchanging right of British citizens to exercise freedom of speech and expression – which includes the right to criticise, express dislike of, or insult religions and/or the beliefs and practices of adherents.”

This is intended to reflect existing law, though even here the terms of reference have actually watered down what British law states.

Section 29J of the Public Order Act reads:

“Nothing in this Part shall be read or given effect in a way which prohibits or restricts discussion, criticism or expressions of antipathy, dislike, ridicule, insult or abuse of particular religions or the beliefs or practices of their adherents, or of any other belief system or the beliefs or practices of its adherents, or proselytising or urging adherents of a different religion or belief system to cease practising their religion or belief system.”

Notice how the Terms of Reference omits terms like ‘ridicule’ and ‘abuse’. It also omits the freedom to proselytise and to urge adherents to cease practising their religion. Any new definition must also allow for these things, even though they are not explicitly stated in the Terms of Reference.

Secretive

The Terms of Reference state: “All advice provided by the Group will be private for Ministers and will not be made public.” This is in direct contravention of open government, and seems designed to avoid being subject to public discission, or even Freedom of Information requests.

Advice and recommendations are to be hidden from the public so as to avoid scrutiny. What possible motive for avoiding scrutiny could there be? Not only is the group mandated with only considering the views of Muslims, non-Muslims are also not even entitled to know what advice this Group is providing to the government. This is yet further special privileging of Muslims.

Faith minister influenced by extremist cleric

The new working group will report to the Minister for Faith and Communities, who is Lord Khan. Lord Khan was forced to admit last September that the APPG definition of Islamophobia conflicts with the Equality Act. This is most likely why this new Group has been set up to come up with an alternative definition.

Just last month, Lord Khan kissed the ring of a Dobandi Islamic extremist in Burnley. The gesture signifies acceptance of the ring-bearer’s leadership and guidance and is a mark of love and affection. Lord Khan was meeting with Maulana Tariq Jamil, a leading Pakistani scholar of Tablighi Jamaat (or TJ) – which has its European headquarters in Dewsbury in Yorkshire.

TJ espouses a hard-line view of Islam with no compromise with Western values. Jamil is known for refusing to condemn terrorism. He also said that coronavirus was spread in the West partly due to the immodesty of Western women, though he later apologised for this statement.

Robert Jenrick, Shadow Secretary of State for Justice, queried why a Government Minister was “meeting with a cleric who has made extreme outbursts.” Jenrick continued: “His actions undermine community cohesion. We need full answers and an account of what happened.” This is very unlikely to be forthcoming.

Privileging Muslims

The Group has just six months to deliver a working definition of Anti-Muslim Hatred/Islamophobia. After this period, Ministers will review and confirm next steps. In case there is any doubt, the Terms of Reference repeat that “The work of the Group will not be made public.”

So, we will be kept in the dark about how this Group is progressing and what possible definitions have been discussed.

The best hope here is that the Group concludes, as I have long suggested, that ‘Anti-Muslim’ is clear and sufficient. This is looking very unlikely since they must also cover non-Muslims perceived as Muslims. Yet any new definition must also comply with existing law.

I would very much like to be an observer in this Group. I think they’ve been given an impossible task.

But it is also a dangerous task. Even without a government definition, Christians have been arrested for legitimate criticism of Islam. For example, Ian Sleeper was arrested for displaying a sign reading “Love Muslims, Hate Islam”. What possible crime did he commit?

An official definition will legitimise yet more discrimination against Christians and others brave enough to criticise Islam in public. Enough already. But the government seems intent on going down this track. Expect more discrimination to come.

Source:christianconcern.com

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https://christianconcern.com/comment/islamophobia-working-group-discriminates-against-christians/

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Russia says sanctions must be lifted before Ukraine maritime ceasefire can start

27 MAR 2025

Russia has said some Western sanctions must be lifted before it begins a maritime ceasefire with Ukraine.

Within hours of the US announcing the two sides had agreed to halt strikes in the Black Sea in separate deals, the Kremlin said it would only take place once sanctions on a number of Russian banks were lifted.

The demands include revoking sanctions on the state agricultural bank Rosselkhozbank and restoring the firms' access to the Swift international payment system.

Overnight, Moscow launched a drone attack on the port city of Mykolaiv, Ukrainian officials said, with President Volodymyr Zelensky saying the strikes were "a clear signal" Russia did not want peace.

After Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, the EU and its allies suspended access to Swift for a number of Russian financial institutions.

The aim was for Russian companies to lose access to the normal smooth and instant transactions provided by Swift, disrupting payments for its valuable energy and agricultural exports.

Reversing that decision would need EU approval, a step that would appear uncertain in light of recent European statements of support for Kyiv.

A European Commission spokesperson said the withdrawal of all Russian forces from Ukraine would be one of the main conditions to lift or amend any sanctions.

On Tuesday, US President Donald Trump said that Russia could be trying to delay ending the war.

"I think that Russia wants to see an end to it, but it could be they're dragging their feet. I've done it over the years," he said in an interview with Newsmax.

The maritime ceasefire was announced by the US after three days of peace talks in Saudi Arabia.

However Kyiv and Moscow later released conflicting statements on the details of the deal, including when and how it would start.

Zelensky said he believed the deal did not require sanctions relief to come into force and would take effect immediately.

He called the Kremlin's statement an attempt to "manipulate" the deals.

The Black Sea has not been a central focus of fighting for some time.

In the first stages of the war, Ukraine successfully targeted Russia's fleet in its Crimean home ports and as of last summer, Ukraine said it had destroyed 28 Russian vessels.

With what was left of the Russian fleet fleeing south and east to Russian and Abkhazian ports, Ukraine has been successfully exporting goods - with grain exports at near pre-war levels - via shipping which hugged the western seaboard of the Black Sea.

So any maritime ceasefire – if it comes into force – is unlikely to reshape the balance of the war that is largely being fought on the ground.

But Dr Jenny Mathers, a senior professor of international politics at Aberystwyth University and expert on Russian politics, said the maritime ceasefire would provide Russia with a "big advantage" as it was currently struggling to export its agricultural produce.

"Ukraine has managed to get out a lot of its agricultural produce through the Black Sea, and it's managed to successfully target Russian shipping, so Russia doesn't use the Black Sea at the moment," Dr Mathers said.

The Black Sea Grain Initiative was struck in 2022, allowing safe passage of commercial ships travelling to and from Ukraine, with UN officials helping Russia get its food and fertiliser exports to foreign markets in return.

Russia withdrew from the agreement in summer 2023, arguing that financial sanctions were hindering its exports, and said it would view any vessel bound for Ukraine as a potential military target.

The UN said on Wednesday that freedom of navigation in the Black Sea was a "crucial contribution to global food security and supply chains".

A spokesperson said the UN was working with Russia to facilitate its food and fertiliser exports.

Where a maritime ceasefire could make a difference is by protecting Ukrainian ports from Russian air strikes.

"For us, a ceasefire is primarily a cessation of shelling of civilian port infrastructure," said Dmytro Pletenchuk, the Ukrainian navy spokesperson.

"As of now, we're in control of the situation at sea; in the Black Sea, in the Azov Sea, and in the waters surrounding temporarily occupied Crimea. That's why for us, the Ukrainian navy, this situation would not really change anything."

After announcing the agreement on Tuesday, Washington said all parties would continue working towards a "durable and lasting peace", adding that the agreement would reopen an important trade route.

Ukraine and Russia also committed to "develop measures" to implement a previously agreed ban on attacking each other's energy infrastructure, the White House said.

The Black Sea is located south of Ukraine and to the west of Russia, and is also bordered by Romania, Bulgaria, Turkey, and Georgia.

It is also bordered by parts of Russian-occupied Ukraine - including Crimea.

Source:bbc.com

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https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c93n05z48ldo

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'Mum was killed but her name protects other women'

27 MAR 2025

The daughter of the woman who was the inspiration for the Ask for Angela safety scheme is calling for government action to ensure it is implemented properly.

Angela Crompton was killed by her husband in 2012, with her name becoming the codeword for people to use to seek help at venues like bars and pubs if they feel unsafe.

Her daughter Hollie, who has spoken to the BBC about the impact of her mum's death, says that while she feels "validated" by the official response to the failures with the scheme uncovered by the BBC she thinks more action is needed.

"We need safer spaces for women and tougher penalties for offenders. If the government can change the law to make this mandatory, then great."

The Ask for Angela scheme allows people who feel unsafe in bars or clubs to discreetly seek help. In response to hearing the word "Angela", staff should offer assistance such as helping the person feeling under threat to leave safely.

However, BBC secret filming recently revealed that more than half of venues visited failed to respond correctly, with many staff members completely unaware of what to do.

The BBC has since contacted 340 councils across the UK. We found that 34 have made Ask for Angela a condition of granting new alcohol licences, with 67 more local authorities – including Leeds, Middlesbrough, Southend and Nottingham – possibly set to follow suit.

Additionally, 47 councils say they are now actively testing venues to ensure the initiative works effectively. Some authorities have warned that businesses failing to operate the safety scheme properly could lose their licences.

Who was Angela?

Waitress and make-up artist Angela Crompton was 34 when she was killed by her husband of just three months, Thomas Crompton, at their home near Norwich. He throttled Angela before getting a hammer and striking her multiple times over the head.

At trial, Crompton was convicted of manslaughter but cleared of murder after the jury was told he had lost control. He received a seven-and-a-half-year sentence and served four years in prison.

"She was the fun mum – very bubbly, outgoing, confident, creative and artistic," says Hollie, who has been speaking to the BBC for the first time about her mother's name being used for the safety initiative.

Hollie, who was 15 when Angela was killed, recalls the day she found out Crompton had attacked her mother.

"My dad came to pick me up and said: 'We've had a phone call. We're not entirely sure what's happened.' We rushed to the hospital, where we learned how extreme it was," Hollie says. "We were told she was on life support and was going to die any minute."

Angela died in hospital two days later.

"This wasn't a momentary lapse," Hollie says of Crompton's attack.

"How long does it take for someone to lose consciousness when you're strangling them? Then he goes and grabs a hammer, comes back — that's a deliberate choice, so how can that be called 'losing control'?"

The verdict and sentence left the family devastated. "Most of the anger and frustration actually came after the court case," Hollie says.

"Just, like how has this justice system let us down so badly? How has this kind of thing essentially been allowed to happen and there's just been a slap on the wrist?"

The Ask for Angela initiative was created by a violence against women and girls campaigner from Lincolnshire who knew of Angela's case through a mutual friend. The scheme has since spread across Britain and to countries including the United States, Argentina and New Zealand.

For Hollie, discovering her mum's name had become associated with a global safety campaign provided an unexpected form of solace.

"I think it does massively help," she says. "When I found out essentially that the campaign was named after her, I think for me that was actually quite a sort of relief.

"I had so many emotions, so much sort of anger and frustration for me. I found this actually a really good way to channel that into this really positive campaign that's helping so many different people.

"When you think about how massive this is — not only in the UK, across Europe, Australia, even out in the US — it is wild to think that that is from that one thing. It's sometimes quite like, I guess almost a bit like, daunting in a way. It's just a bit surreal, really."

Following the revelations about the Ask for Angela scheme in the BBC undercover report, major chains including Greene King and JD Wetherspoon, whose staff failed to recognise the code word, said they had implemented comprehensive staff training and overhauled their Ask for Angela protocols.

JD Wetherspoon said it had reissued training to all operational staff and strengthened its incident reporting systems, documenting 129 cases of women in distress who had received assistance since November.

Greene King said it had implemented extra training at its venues, increased safety signage and introduced formal documentation requirements, recording 18 incidents of vulnerable women seeking help since January.

A Freedom of Information request by the BBC reveals the extent of public money that has been used to fund the scheme.

About £13.1m in public funds has been allocated to Ask for Angela projects through the Home Office's Safer Streets Fund since 2021. The funding spans 22 police forces and local authorities across the UK.

Hollie's call for action

The extent of council inspections, and participation in the Ask for Angela scheme in some cases being a licensing requirement are important steps forward made since the BBC's secret filming, Hollie believes.

"It's amazing that the councils are even writing this in, to make this essentially almost like a legality," she says. "I think she'd be proud. I think it's obviously like an amazing cause and it's helping so many people."

While welcoming the changes for the better seen so far, Hollie says more could be done.

"It needs to be tougher penalties for people that are doing the act," she told the BBC. "Like only half the battle is creating the safe space. The other half of the battle is getting people to not do these things and not have these behaviours."

Source:bbc.com

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

https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cd6v1e224x0o

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Tougher rules needed to protect young people online, report warns

27 MAR 2025

The government needs to do more to protect young people from violent and harmful content online, a new report suggests.

The Youth Select Committee, a parliamentary group of 14 to 19-year-olds, said the Online Safety Act was not robust enough to protect children from being exposed to dangerous material.

But the young people on the committee argued against calls to ban social media for under-16s, saying it would prevent people from accessing its benefits, and that young people would find ways around it.

The government said it was "making our streets and online spaces safer for children" by delivering its Plan for Change.

Wania Eshaal Ahmad, the 15-year-old chair of the committee, said it was "quite abhorrent" that social media algorithms could inadvertently promote violent and harmful content to keep young people engaged.

She said some young people were becoming desensitised to glorified violence online, because of how often it is shown to them.

The committee called for better media literacy education in schools, including about how algorithms work and how students can "protect themselves and distinguish fact from fiction".

The report also called for more training and support for teachers, parents and carers to help educate young people on the potential dangers of the online world.

The report welcomed measures in the Online Safety Act, but said the bill was not robust enough to enforce minimum age limits on social media platforms, or to ensure children and young people would be protected from harmful content.

The bill, which is being introduced this year, puts more responsibility on social media companies to prevent their services being used for illegal activity, and to take down illegal content when it does appear.

Those measures have already been introduced. A government spokesperson said those were "just the beginning", and more were due to come into effect this year.

But the committee's report said the government should do more, including naming and shaming platforms which fail to comply with the rules, introducing an online safety scorecard to help young people avoid harmful content, and doing more research into the links between online and real-life violence.

While the committee said the bill does not go far enough, its report said banning social media for under-16s was not the answer.

Members said a ban, like the one being implemented in Australia, "is neither practical nor effective".

Many young people could find ways around age verification methods, and a ban would stop them accessing positive content on social media, the report said.

The committee instead called on the government to hold social media companies to account more effectively.

Members also said young people should be consulted more often in discussions around staying safe online, saying their experience and ideas for solutions were "vital to shaping real change".

"Responsibility is a very key aspect of our report," Wania said.

"And that's what we need from the government, from social media companies and from the education system.

"We don't need empty promises. We need them to take action, and action is the only way forward."

Source:bbc.com

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https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c8x40qplk15o

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Oldham Imam told 'no one will find you' during kidnapping

26TH MARCH

By Kent Lawlor

An elderly Imam was left "frightened" after being kidnapped in Oldham, assaulted, and left naked in West Yorkshire, a trial has heard.

On Tuesday (March 25), the trial of Azizur Rahman and Shohad Miah continued at Manchester Crown Court.

The pair are accused of kidnapping and assaulting the elderly man in Oldham before leaving him naked in West Yorkshire, which the court heard was because the man, an Imam, had visited Rahman's wife's home to perform a religious action on his stepson, including giving him two amulets.

Yesterday, jurors were shown video footage of two separate police interviews the victim gave after the incident.

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In the first interview, the victim was seen to have bandages on his left ear and right hand, as well as a swollen face, and became emotional at points of the interview.

Through a translator, the victim said in the first interview that he was walking in Oldham on the evening of September 15 when a car pulled up near to him and he was forced into it by two men.

The prosecution say Miah, 24, drove while a man who gave his name to the victim as Aziz, who the prosecution say was Rahman, repeatedly assaulted the victim and drew a knife on at least one occasion.

The victim said the hits from Rahman, 38, "felt like when lightning hits" and that when he asked them what they were going to do with him, they responded by saying they were "going to rid you of this world".

Rahman was then said to have accused the victim of going to his house to give his stepson two amulets.

The victim then said he was told: "We're going to drop you off in a place no one will find you."

Rahman and Miah are alleged to have stripped the victim naked and left him on a remote road in West Yorkshire before he then managed to get help from nearby residents.

In a second police interview, the victim said he did not believe he had done anything wrong and that he did not understand why Rahman had been so angry.

He added: "I was so frightened, I was shaking. Once they put me inside the vehicle, they took all my clothing and I was really frightened.

Both Rahman, of Bluebell Walk, Oldham, and Miah, of Firbank Road, Royton, deny kidnap, causing grievous bodily harm, non-fatal strangulation, robbery and perverting the course of justice, while Rahman denies further charges of threatening a person with a blade and making threats to kill towards his stepson's mother.

The trial, which began on Monday, continues.

Source:theoldhamtimes.co.uk

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https://www.theoldhamtimes.co.uk/news/25035922.oldham-imam-allegedly-kidnapped-stripped-trial-hears/

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Yobs booted police van and targeted mosque in 'disgusting scenes' of violence

Jon Macpherson

26 MAR 2025

Three men involved in riots that resulted in a police van being set ablaze and a mosque targeted have been jailed for their roles in the 'disgusting scenes'.

The violent disorder broke out in Southport on July 30 last year, following the tragic murders of Bebe King, six, Elsie Dot Stancombe, seven, and Alex da Silva Aguiar, nine, the previous day. The riots were sparked by widespread misinformation about the identity of the attacker, leading to an attack on Southport Mosque on the corner of Sussex Road and St Luke's Road just an hour after a poignant vigil in the town centre.

Thomas Birchmore and Gavin O'Connor appeared in Liverpool Crown Court on Tuesday (March 25), having previously pleaded guilty to their involvement in the disorder. Birchmore, 31, from Manley Street, Ince-in-Makerfield, Wigan, was filmed kicking a police vehicle and received a two-year prison sentence.

O'Connor, 46, from Idle Road, Bedford, was seen hurling missiles at police officers during the riots. He was handed a sentence of two years and eight months.

Ryan Williams was also in court yesterday for his part in the disorder. The 30-year-old, from Black Brooke Close, Southport, who threw bricks at police and the mosque, was given a prison sentence of one year and 10 months after pleading guilty to the offences at an earlier hearing.

Police have also arrested a 35-year-old from Wigan on suspicion of violent disorder after he landed at Manchester Airport from Spain on Monday (March 24). The suspect is accused of throwing missiles at officers. He has been bailed with conditions pending further enquiries.

Detective Inspector Paula Jones said: "This latest sentencing of three men brings the total number to 237 years for the 128 people that have been brought before the courts so far. In addition, we have made 185 arrests and charged 146 people in connection with violence and disruption which damaged our communities on Merseyside.

"The disgusting scenes witnessed will not be tolerated and we advise anyone else who took part in the disorder to do the right thing and hand themselves in."

Images and footage are still being worked through so please contact police with any information via their public portal mipp.police.uk or anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Source:lancs.live

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https://www.lancs.live/news/lancashire-news/yobs-booted-police-van-targeted-31282193

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Police get new powers to protect places of worship

27 MAR 2025

Police forces will be given new powers to manage protests near sites of worship, the Home Office has said.

The government said the powers were in response to a series of "intimidating protests" near synagogues and mosques in recent months.

The new measures will make it easier for police to impose conditions on protest - including on the route and timing of a march - that might disrupt worshippers attempting to visit religious sites.

In addition, a new law that bans people from climbing on war memorials will be extended to cover the National Holocaust Memorial, which is set to be built in Westminster in the coming years.

The new powers, which are being introduced as amendments to the Crime and Policing Bill, protects synagogues, mosques, churches and all other religious sites.

Among other things, current legislation allows the police to impose conditions on a protest if they believe the "purpose of those organising the protest is the intimidation of others", the Home Office said.

The new legislation will allow police to impose conditions on a protest "specifically if they have a reasonable belief that the protest may result in the intimidation of those seeking to access places of worship".

The Home Office said the new rules would give police "total clarity on how and when they can protect religious sites".

The updated laws come partly in response to recent demonstrations near synagogues that have "caused the cancellation of events" and dissuaded congregants from travelling to worship, the Home Office said.

The government also cited the targeting of mosques during the violent disorder that broke out last summer as a reason for introducing the amendments.

Anti-Semitic hate crimes have increased by 113% in the last year, and anti-Muslim hate crime has risen by 13%, according to police figures quoted by the Home Office.

Home Secretary Yvette Cooper said that while "the right to protest is a cornerstone of our democracy", that right "does not include the right to intimidate or infringe on the fundamental freedoms of others."

The government said police will still have to make a "proportionality assessment", which balances the "right to freedom of expression with the right for others to go about their daily lives free from intimidation and serious disruption", before imposing conditions on protects.

The government said it is also providing "up to £50m" to protect faith communities in the next year.

Source:bbc.com

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North America

 

Trump announces 25% tariffs on car imports to US

Mar. 27, 2025

US President Donald Trump has announced new import taxes of 25% on cars and car parts coming into the US in a move that threatens to widen the global trade war.

Trump said the latest tariffs would come into effect on 2 April, with charges on businesses importing vehicles starting the next day. Charges on parts are set to start in May or later.

The president claimed the measure would lead to "tremendous growth" for the car industry, promising it would spur jobs and investment in the US.

But analysts have said the move is likely to lead to the temporary shutdown of significant car production in the US, increase prices, and strain relations with allies.

The US imported roughly eight million cars last year, accounting for about $240bn (£186bn) in trade and roughly half of overall sales.

Mexico is the top foreign supplier of cars to the US, followed by South Korea, Japan, Canada and Germany. Trump's latest move threatens to upend global car trade and supply chains.

Many US car companies have operations in Mexico and Canada as well, set up under the terms of the longstanding free trade agreement between the three countries.

The White House said the order would apply not only to finished cars but also to car parts, which are often shipped in from other countries before getting assembled in the US.

However, the new tariffs on parts from Canada and Mexico are exempt while US customs and border patrol set up a system to assess the duties, the White House said. The neighbouring countries see goods worth billions cross borders each day.

On Wednesday, shares in General Motors slid roughly 3%. The sell-off spread to other companies, including Ford, after the president's remarks as he confirmed the tariffs.

Asked at a press conference if there was any chance he would reverse course, Trump said no, adding later: "This is permanent."

"If you build your car in the United States there is no tariff," he said.

Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba said his government would put "all options on the table" in response to the tariffs.

Japan, which is home to several major motor industry giants, is the world's second largest exporter of cars.

Shares in Japanese carmakers - including Toyota, Nissan, Honda - fell in early trade in Tokyo.

A tariff is a tax on imports collected by a government and it is paid by the company importing the good.

Trump has embraced the tool, looking to apply it to a host of goods being imported into the US as part of a wider drive to protect American businesses and boost manufacturing.

But while the measures can protect domestic businesses, they also raise costs for businesses reliant on parts from abroad, as is the case for car-makers.

Analysts have estimated that the cost of a car could rise thousands of dollars, with 25% tariffs on parts from Mexico and Canada alone adding $4,000-$10,000 in cost depending on the vehicle, according to the Anderson Economic Group.

'Direct attack'

The fresh car import taxes on cars are set to come into force on the same day as so-called reciprocal tariffs kick in for individual countries based on their trading relationship with the US.

It is not clear how the car tariffs might affect those plans.

But many countries, including the UK, are concerned about their exporters being hit as a result of the new taxes.

The US was the top sales market for British-based Jaguar Land Rover last year, with the carmaker selling 116,294 vehicles to Americans, exceeding sales to customers in the UK and China.

The UK government is in talks with the US administration and remains hopeful of a trade deal before tariffs come into force, the BBC understands.

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney called Trump's announcement a "direct attack" on his country and its car industry.

"This will hurt us, but through this period by being together we will emerge stronger," he said.

European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen said the bloc would consider the measures before any potential response.

"As I have said before, tariffs are taxes – bad for businesses, worse for consumers equally in the US and the European Union," she said.

"The EU will continue to seek negotiated solutions, while safeguarding its economic interests."

For the UK, the US is the second largest car export market after the EU, with mainly luxury cars shipped across the Atlantic, according to the industry body, the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).

Mike Hawes, the chief executive of the SMMT, urged the UK and US governments to "come together immediately and strike a deal that works for all".

The car industry was already grappling with expanded tariffs on steel and aluminium that Trump put in place earlier this month.

In recent weeks, major car companies such as Ford and General Motors had urged the president to exempt the industry from any further duties.

A 2024 study by the US International Trade Commission predicted that a 25% tariff on imports would reduce imports by almost 75%, while increasing average prices in the US by about 5%.

But Trump has proceeded with the move, which is a revival of an action he first considered during his first term in the White House.

White House officials said it wanted to see US workers make more parts, not simply assemble them, and have maintained their action is pushing firms to relocate.

A day before the latest tariffs, South Korean carmaking giant Hyundai announced it would invest $21bn (£16.3bn) in the US and build a new steel plant in the southern state of Louisiana.

Trump hailed the investment as a "clear demonstration that tariffs very strongly work".

United Autoworkers union leader Shawn Fain, who had opposed Trump in the election, praised the president's actions, saying he was "stepping up to end the free trade disaster that has devastated working class communities for decades".

Elsewhere, the head of trade group the American Automotive Policy Council, Matt Blunt, said: "US Automakers are committed to President Trump's vision of increasing automotive production and jobs in the US."

Source:bbc.com

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'They invited me - now they're attacking me': Signal chat journalist speaks to BBC

Mar. 27, 2025

When Jeffrey Goldberg published a bombshell story outlining how some of the most senior US officials had mistakenly shared sensitive information with him, he obtained the biggest scoop of the year. The Atlantic editor also became the prime target for every senior Trump administration official in Washington.

In the last couple of days, he's been called a "loser" and a "sleazebag" by President Trump, as well as a liar and "scum" by US National Security Advisor Michael Waltz, who appeared to have mistakenly added Goldberg to a group chat earlier this month.

Before he became a political lightning rod, however, Goldberg watched on his phone as cabinet officials - including US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Secretary of Defence Pete Hegseth, CIA director John Ratcliffe and Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard - discussed the sensitive details, timings and targets of an upcoming military operation in Yemen. They did not seem to notice his presence.

In an interview with the BBC on Wednesday, he told me it all began when he got a message on his phone, via the publicly available Signal messaging app, which allows users to send each other encrypted messages. It's popular among journalists and government officials. An account under Waltz's name had messaged him, which he assumed was a hoax.

"I wish there was a Le Carré quality here, you know," he said, referring to the late British spy novelist. "But he asked me to talk. I said yes. And next thing I know, I'm in this very strange chat group with the national security leadership of the United States."

As the fall-out of the episode has engulfed Washington, Waltz has taken responsibility for mistakenly adding Goldberg to the group chat, suggesting that he meant to invite somebody else.

He has insisted that he has never met the editor, saying: "I wouldn't know him if I bumped into him, if I saw him in a police lineup".

By Goldberg's account, the two have actually met several times, though he declined to go into detail about their relationship.

"He can say obviously whatever he wants, but I'm not commenting on my relationship or non-relationship," Goldberg told me. "As a reporter, I'm just not comfortable talking publicly about relationships that I may or may not have with people who are news makers."

Still, one thing is clear: you must already have someone's contact information to reach them on Signal, and so Waltz had Goldberg's phone number. The top security adviser has said he has asked Elon Musk, tech billionaire and the White House's government efficiency czar, to investigate how the mistake happened - a move that was ridiculed by Goldberg.

"Really, you're going to put Elon Musk onto the question of how somebody's phone number ends up in someone's phone? I mean you know, most 8-year-olds could figure it out," he said.

The bigger question? "Should you, as national security officials, be doing this on Signal on your phone?" Goldberg said.

In his Monday Atlantic story - the first to report his access to the chat - Goldberg withheld the precise details that were shared around the bombing mission that attacked Houthi rebel targets in Yemen on 14 March. But Trump administration officials downplayed the report, calling him a liar and challenging his claims that classified information was shared.

And so two days later, the magazine printed the full text messages, including several from Hegseth that included operational specifics. I asked him if that was a tough decision to make.

"Once Donald Trump said there was nothing to see here, essentially, and once Tulsi Gabbard and John Ratcliffe said there was no sensitive information, no classified information, et cetera - we felt like, hm, we disagree," he said. "They're saying that, and we're the ones who have the texts, so maybe people should see them."

There are text messages in the group chat - sent before the first wave of strikes - detailing exactly when F-18 fighter jets would take off, when the first bombs would drop on Houthi targets and when Tomahawk missiles were going be fired. Hegseth has pushed back, saying they were clearly not "war plans" and none of it was classified information.

President Trump expressed his support for Hegseth on Wednesday, saying he was "doing a great job" and describing Goldberg as a "sleazebag". The White House has also attempted to argue that the information shared was not technically war planning.

Goldberg did not appear swayed by their insults and claims.

"If Pete Hegseth, the secretary of defense, is texting me, telling me the attack was about to be launched on Yemen - telling me what kind of aircraft are going to be used, what kind of weapons are going to be used, and when the bombs are going to fall two hours after the text is received - that seems sensitive information, war-planning information to me," he said.

This isn't the first time that the veteran editor has been on the receiving end of Trump's ire: in 2020 he published a piece in The Atlantic where senior military officials quoted Trump as having referred to fallen American soldiers as "suckers" and "losers", something the president and his administration have vigorously denied.

I asked him how he felt about the vitriolic personal attacks against him, coming from the very highest levels of the government.

"This is their move. You never defend, just attack," Goldberg said. "So I'm sitting there, minding my own business. They invite me into this Signal chat and now they're attacking me as a sleaze bag, I don't even get it."

Trump has, so far, been defending his national security team and doesn't seem inclined to sack anyone over what he is calling a press "witch-hunt". But Goldberg says there's a widespread feeling in the White House that Waltz made a serious error, as well as deeper concern about how the incident is being handled.

"If you're a Air Force captain, currently working with the CIA and the State Department, and you mishandled sensitive information the way that they've obviously mishandled sensitive information? You'd be fired, you'd be prosecuted," Goldberg said.

He said there is now some "buzz" among the ranks around the apparently differing accountability standards for leaders in the Trump administration.

Goldberg didn't stick around in the chat for the fallout. He decided the responsible thing to do was to leave the group. Some journalists have expressed incredulity that he would voluntarily exit.

But what happens next will play out in the White House and Congress, where Democratic lawmakers and some Republicans have demanded an investigation.

"There's a part of me that would love to see what else is happening in there. But there's a lot of different issues here related to law and ethics and all kinds of other issues that I really can't go into, " Goldberg said. "Believe me when I say that I made that decision with good advice from various parties."

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NATO chief triggers confusion over ‘dead’ American troops

27 Mar, 2025

Four US Army soldiers mysteriously disappeared during a training exercise in Lithuania near the Belarusian border on Tuesday. The Pentagon has yet to confirm their fate, after NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte triggered confusion by expressing condolences to their families.

The soldiers, from the 1st Brigade, 3rd Infantry Division based at Fort Stewart, Georgia, were conducting “scheduled tactical training” at the General Silvestras Zukauskas training ground in Pabrade, Lithuania when they went missing, prompting a large-scale search and rescue operation.

The M88 Hercules armored recovery vehicle the four missing US Soldiers were operating during a training exercise has been located in Lithuania,” US Army Europe and Africa said in its latest update on Wednesday.

The armored vehicle “was discovered submerged in a body of water in a training area,” but “search efforts for the soldiers continue,” the US military added. The Lithuanian Armed Forces also stated that, at present, “there is no evidence or information confirming the death of the troops.”

Earlier on Wednesday, Rutte appeared to confirm the US servicemen were dead, saying, “This is really terrible news and our thoughts are with the families and loved ones.” However, NATO spokeswoman Allison Hart later clarified that the secretary-general was merely “referring to emerging news reports” and “was not confirming the fate of the missing.”

“We regret any confusion about remarks [Rutte] delivered on this today,” she added.

The United States maintains a force of around 1,000 personnel in Lithuania; Washington increased deployments across the Baltics and other European NATO members following the escalation of the Ukraine conflict in 2022. The US-led military bloc has also intensified exercises near the borders with Russia and its ally Belarus.

Last week, the militaries of Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia, and Poland called on their governments to withdraw from the Ottawa Treaty – an international agreement that bans the use of anti-personnel landmines – arguing that an increased military threat from Russia necessitates the move.

Western countries “can’t wait” to drag Belarus into their “military squabbles,” Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko warned last year, as Minsk estimated there are 20,000 NATO soldiers stationed “near” the country’s borders.

Moscow has repeatedly dismissed Western claims that it intends to attack NATO or EU states, with Russian President Vladimir Putin calling such statements “nonsense.”

He has argued that the alleged “Russian threat” is being used by European politicians to scare citizens and justify increased military spending. Moscow officials have also criticized the EU’s latest militarization efforts as reckless and escalatory.

Source:rt.com

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Three sensitive messages from Yemen strike Signal chat unpacked and explained

Mar. 27, 2025

A discussion by high-ranking US security officials about US air strikes on Yemen has been published in full by the Atlantic magazine.

The group chat on the Signal app mistakenly included the Atlantic's editor-in-chief Jeffrey Goldberg.

After holding back some excerpts of the chat in an earlier article, he decided on Wednesday to publish almost the entire exchange after senior officials insisted there was no classified information shared in the group.

Those statements "have led us to believe that people should see the texts in order to reach their own conclusions", Goldberg wrote.

The messages, however, need some unpicking. Here are three of them with some analysis.

Timetable for the attack

These messages provide details of the US military's plan for the Yemen strikes - described as a "package", a military term which refers to a set of aircraft, weapons systems and intelligence gathering devices that will participate in an operation.

"The idea this wasn't classified information at the time is inconceivable," Glenn Gerstell, the former general counsel of the National Security Agency (NSA), told the BBC.

He added that it may have been declassified afterwards but any imminent military action involving American troops would have been classified at the time it was shared.

The messages from Hegseth note what time F-18 fighter aircraft are scheduled to launch, as well as when strikes will take place and in what timeframe "trigger-based" attacks could occur.

In this context, "trigger" refers to a set of parameters that have to be acknowledged before weapons are deployed. It could be a visual reference point, like a mobile phone lighting up.

This information is considered highly sensitive.

Philip Ingram, a former military intelligence officer with the British Army, told the BBC that similar information "falls firmly into the bracket of what would have been classified top secret".

"You can practically plot where the aircraft are going to come from," he added.

In the wake of the chat's revelations, the White House and other US officials have argued that this information does not constitute a "war plan".

In a post on X, Hegseth said: "The Atlantic released the so-called 'war plans' and those 'plans' include: No names. No targets. No locations. No units. No routes. No sources. No methods."

A 'missile guy' hit at girlfriend's home

In this part of the group chat, National Security Advisor Mike Waltz provides an update on the strike - which in military parlance is called a battle damage assessment, or BDA.

Waltz notes that the target building has collapsed, and that the US military had earlier had positive identification of the target - a Houthi "missile guy" - walking into the building, which was believed to be his girlfriend's residence.

In his message, Waltz congratulates Pete - referring to Hegseth, as well as the IC, shorthand for "intelligence community" and Kurilla, a reference to Michael Kurilla, a US Army General who oversees Central Command, a regional combatant command with responsibility over the Middle East and parts of Central and South Asia.

The messages do not reveal how the target's whereabouts or movements were tracked.

A military expert contacted by the BBC - but who wished to remain nameless - suggested that a combination of aerial platforms, technological tracking capabilities or human intelligence on the ground could have been used, or a combination of various sources.

At least 53 people were killed in the initial wave of US airstrikes on Houthi targets in Yemen, which struck more than 30 targets including training facilities, drone infrastructure, as well as weapons manufacturing and storage sites and command and control centres, including one in which the Pentagon said several unmanned aerial vehicle experts were located.

It is unclear which of the targets Waltz was referring to in the group chat.

CIA activities in Yemen

Another potentially sensitive message comes from Joe Kent, a former special operations soldier and failed congressional candidate who was nominated by Trump to be the Director of the National Counterterrorism Center.

In his message, Kent refers to Israel carrying out their own strikes.

The Israeli military has repeatedly struck Houthi targets in Yemen since the beginning of the war in Gaza, in retaliation for Houthi missile and drone attacks on Israeli targets conducted in support of Hamas.

The most recent attacks took place on 19 and 26 December of last year.

According to Kent, the Israeli government would seek to "replenish" any weapons stocks used in further raids, although he believes that to be a "minor factor".

A slightly more sensitive message follows from CIA Director John Ratcliffe, who notes that the US is "mobilising assets" to help a strike, but that a delay would "not negatively impact" the agency's work in Yemen.

"Additional time would be used to identify better starting points for coverage on Houthi leadership," he wrote.

Assets, in this context, could refer to CIA-run spies on the ground in Yemen, or technological means such as surveillance drone flights.

Mick Mulroy, a former deputy assistant secretary of defence and ex-CIA paramilitary officer, said that Ratcliffe's message was very sensitive.

"Essentially, we don't want to share where the CIA is focused," he added.

Ratcliffe told a House hearing on Wednesday that he did not transmit classified information.

Source:bbc.com

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Endicott Islamic Center hosts Eid al-Fitr celebration

By Autriya Maneshni

Mar. 27, 2025

ENDICOTT, N.Y.(WBNG) -- The holy month of Ramdan is ending, and the Endicott Islamic Center welcomed dozens from the community to participate in a major celebration.

On Wednesday, the Islamic Center hosted an “Eid al-Fitr” celebration. During the holy month, Muslims fast from dawn to sunset, and it is often a time of reflection and communal prayer.

Community members gathered to enjoy traditional food for “Iftar,” the evening meal that breaks the fast. The center discussed the significance of the Eid celebration with 12 News.

“Tonight is a very special night. It’s not only for Muslims. [The] whole nation, we’re going to pray for that,” Endicott Islamic Center founder Sharfuddin Chisty said. “And for our Endicott Islamic Center, we’re going to say Happy Ramadan to everybody. God bless you and thank you.”

If you know anyone who has been fasting during this holy month, tell them, “Eid Mubarak!”

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Wylie library showcases Ramadan display, offering Muslim community space to share culture

Mar. 27, 2025

The month of Ramadan, which is observed by billions of Muslims around the world, including in North Texas, is in its final week. Ramadan is when Muslims fast from dawn to dusk, pray, give charity, and spend time with loved ones.

Inside the Smith Public Library in Wylie, there's a display offering resources to educate the community about the holiest month for Muslims, which is the 9th month of the Islamic Lunar calendar.

"We we fast from dawn to sunset for those who are able to and by doing so we're able to practice more self-discipline, we increase in our spiritual reflection, draw closer to God and it's also a time of having focus on charity and giving back," said Nadaa Hassan, a children's book author and community advocate.

Her book, "Ramadan Around the World," is displayed in the glass case amongst crescent moons, miniature mosques, happy Ramadan signs and other symbols of the month. The decorations show some of the items families have to make it feel festive at home.

"It's a way to introduce our community to what Ramadan means to the Muslims all over the world, right? And it's also a way to allow our kids to be seen, for them to be represented and get excited when they come to their local library," said Sarah Idris, the Ramadan display and story time organizer.

She said several children took part in helping make the display by creating art projects with their favorite Ramadan memories or traditions.

"That's been exciting to be able to have their display in the library all month long. And so whenever they come in, they're able to go and point to and, you know, take pictures and feel included. It's an awesome feeling," explained Idris.

There's also a display of the Quran, the holy book Muslims believe was revealed during the month of Ramadan.

"So for us, that holds great significance. That's one of the acts of worship that we focus on during the holy month, is reading the Book and so we have that on display as well," explained Idris.

In addition to the display, Idris helped set up story time where dozens of kids and families showed up to listen to Hassan read her book.

"Storytelling is one of the most powerful tools of communication and for many children, it's a door into a world beyond their own," explained Hassan. "For American Muslim children specifically, seeing themselves represented not just in the books that they are reading, but also in the spaces that they are part and parcel of is very important and adds a lot to their character and self-confidence."

This is the second year in a row that Smith Public Library gave Idris and others the opportunity to decorate the glass display for the month.

"We feel like it's very important to allow everyone in our community to be able to be represented and express themselves and we're happy that we were able to do that for them," said Ofilia Barrera, the Smith Public Library director.

She said the Ramadan showcase is another resource for visitors to expand their knowledge.

"I hope that the community just recognizes that we have everybody here in our community. There's a little bit of everything and that's what makes us so special. and I hope it raises some curiosity, maybe wanting to learn about other people and other cultures and that's kind of our whole point here at the library, to show that everyone is welcome," said Barrera.

“I want to thank them for not only giving us this opportunity and for being as kind and as gracious as they've been, but for allowing us to come into this space and make our children feel seen and heard and being able to be celebrated," expressed Idris.

"As an American Muslim author, seeing my book as well as the books of many other amazing authors is quite fascinating and so we're very grateful for the library as well as the amazing team behind it that made this possible," said Hassan.

They hope the display opens up a dialogue for people to get to know their neighbors.

"One of the pillars of our faith of Islam and something that our Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, has taught us is to be kind to your neighbor, extend the olive branch to your neighbor," said Idris. "Just having that dialogue, our young Muslim American children go to school with friends of all different faiths and backgrounds, for them being able to tell their friends what their background is, for them being able to share this with them is very important to us."

“Things are not so scary once you get to learn about it and learn about the person in front of you. We're hoping to open that door of conversation between us and the broader community to also teach our children to be confident in who they are, their roots, where they come from, and also provide ways that they could contribute back to their own community," said Hassan. "We have a lot more in common than differences, for sure."

Source:nbcdfw.com

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Shapiro announces $5M grant to Philly Muslim community center

Mar. 26, 2025

Gov. Josh Shapiro joined an iftar dinner at the Al-Aqsa Islamic Society in North Philly to announce a historic grant from the Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program, the largest ever awarded to a Muslim organization.

Shapiro told the assembled group of a few dozen community members Tuesday night that institutions such as Al-Aqsa “are more important than ever before” in the current climate “as we’re facing tumult overseas, and we’re facing a lot of rising hate here at home.”

“So I’m really proud that we’ve been able to work together with your leaders here to invest $5 million in making this place an even greater center of activity in the community,” he told the group as they enjoyed a dinner of shawarma, hummus, rice and pita.

According to Asif Hussain, chairman of the board of Al-Aqsa Islamic Society, one goal for the funds will be to expand the center’s school by adding classrooms and teachers to better meet local demand, increasing attendance from the current 300 to up to 3,000.

“The idea is to have an academic center of excellence at school,” he said. “We have a school that’s K-12. It is very, very small and we have more candidates and more students than we have classrooms. So the idea would be to expand the facility and actually develop it into a full-fledged academic program.”

Al-Aqsa Academy, a private Islamic day and weekend school, was established in 1996. The coursework blends Islamic studies, the Arabic language and Quran classes with a standard K-12 curriculum, including math, science and social studies. The school’s website says its mission is to “provide students with a safe, nurturing, and uplifting Islamic environment that will help them achieve academic excellence.”

Much of the school’s operations costs are borne by private donations. In addition, the students, who are primarily from African and Middle Eastern backgrounds, receive scholarships and financial aid facilitated by programs like the Educational Improvement Tax Credit Program.

Hussain says that none of the families are required to pay tuition and that the school boasts a 100% college placement rate.

One of those students, senior Younis Hammaoudeh, was recently accepted to Villanova University on scholarship, where he plans to major in biology on his way to becoming a physician’s assistant. He told WHYY News that Al-Aqsa Academy’s personal focus on the students prepared him well for that next phase.

“Everyone around is just like family,” Hammaoudeh, the school’s valedictorian, said. “Anytime you have a question, you go straight to the teacher. There’s no problems there whatsoever.”

For Hammaoudeh and many other students, it really is a family affair — his mother works at the school and his cousins attend classes there. He said they also have extracurricular activities — he played and coached soccer and also engaged in interfaith activities with local Christian and Jewish schools.

“I couldn’t have done it without this school,” he said about his college aspirations.

Founded in 1989 by a group of Palestinian immigrants, Al-Aqsa Islamic Society began as a modest house of worship in a rented storefront. Over the past three decades, it has grown into a multifaceted institution serving hundreds of families, drawing worshippers and community members from across the city’s Arab, South Asian, African and African American communities.

The society’s campus also includes a Middle Eastern grocery store, where locals can pick up staples such as dates and za’atar, as well as basketball courts where several of the students could be seen playing rounds after having broken their Ramadan fasting. Al-Aqsa has recently been developing a 45-unit affordable housing project across the street.

A striking feature of the mosque building and community center is its exterior. In 2016, Al-Aqsa partnered with local artists and the city’s Mural Arts Program to transform its façade into a dazzling display of Islamic geometric art and calligraphy. The project, titled “Doorways to Peace,” now serves as a cultural landmark, a visual invitation to a peaceful coexistence with their Philadelphia neighbors.

That peace was broken last year, however, when a 43-year-old resident was shot while on his way to prayer at the mosque. Ten years ago, a severed pig’s head was thrown at the center in the dead of night.

Shapiro said that he worries that such incidents and recent political events have increased anxiety among the Muslim population around the state and in Philadelphia, which is estimated to be between 200,000 and 300,000 people.

“This is a moment where I think communities are fearful of the federal government and that’s deeply concerning to me and I want the Muslim community to know that they’re welcome here in Pennsylvania,” he said at the iftar. “I’ve got their back and I’m going to protect them and I’m going to do everything in my power to ensure that their rights are protected here in the commonwealth.”

Calling it an example of “a really wonderful center of the community,” he said that institutions such as Al-Aqsa are one of the keys to accomplishing that.

Source:whyy.org

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CAIR-MA Condemns ICE Abduction of Tufts Student Rumeysa Ozturk

March 26, 2025

The Massachusetts chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-MA), a chapter of the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today condemned the abduction of Tufts graduate student Rumeysa Ozturk by federal immigration authorities. 

Video provided by neighbors appears to show Ozturk being seized by federal agents after leaving her home, handcuffed, and driven away to an unknown location.

Ozturk, a Turkish national, is a PhD student and doctoral research assistant at Tufts’ Children’s Television Project and completed a master’s degree at Columbia University as a Fulbright Scholar. It is unclear why her visa may have been revoked, but she was one of several authors of a 2024 opinion essay published in the Tufts student newspaper criticizing university leaders for their response to the Gaza genocide and urging divestment from companies with ties to Israel. 

CAIR-MA Executive Director Tahirah Amatul-Wadud, Esq., said:

“We unequivocally condemn the abduction of a young Muslim hijab-wearing scholar by masked federal agents in broad daylight. This alarming act of repression is a direct assault on free speech and academic freedom. Massachusetts residents must recognize the dangerous precedent being set—the federal government is resorting to draconian tactics to silence those who speak out against our nation’s complicity in Israel’s genocide of the Palestinian people. We demand Rumeysa Ozturk’s immediate and safe release and full transparency regarding her detention.” 

Earlier this month, CAIR’s New York chapter (CAIR-NY), CAIR’s national office and the law firm of Dratel & Lewis announced the filing of a federal lawsuit on behalf of Columbia University students against Columbia University and the Committee on Education and Workforce, U.S. House of Representatives regarding the Congressional request to disclose thousands of student records.

Yesterday, the California chapter of CAIR, along with the California Immigrant Policy Center (CIPC), and more than 120 organizations representing community organizers, labor unions, social and legal service providers, faith leaders, and immigration and civil rights organizations, announced a joint letter to more than 50 California legislators urging them to take action regarding the unjust arrests of Columbia anti-genocide activists Mahmoud Khalil and Yunseo Chung.

CAIR-MA’s mission is to enhance understanding of Islam, encourage dialogue, protect civil liberties, empower American Muslims, and build coalitions that promote social justice and mutual understanding. For more information on how you can support CAIR-MA’s efforts, visit

Source:cair.com

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https://www.cair.com/press_releases/cair-ma-condemns-ice-abduction-of-tufts-student-rumeysa-ozturk/

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Four US soldiers missing for two days in Lithuania

Mar. 27, 2025

The Lithuanian army says it is searching for four US soldiers missing for two days during drills in the Baltic state amid reports they had died.

The four soldiers and their tracked vehicle had gone missing on Tuesday afternoon near the border with Belarus, the military said earlier. The US Army said the vehicle had been found submerged in water.

The Lithuanian army said on X that a "rescue operation is intensively ongoing", and there was no evidence "confirming the death of the troops".

Nato chief Mark Rutte had earlier said he had been informed of their deaths, but added that he did not have further details.

Lithuanian and foreign troops, helicopters and state border guards have been deployed to search for the missing soldiers.

The soldiers had been training near Pabrade in eastern Lithuania with other Nato forces.

US Army Europe and Africa's public affairs office confirmed in its statement that the soldiers "were conducting scheduled tactical training at the time of the incident".

They added the soldiers were part of the 1st Brigade, 3rd Infantry Division.

Lithuanian authorities received a report about the soldiers' disappearance on Tuesday afternoon.

"A possible scene has now been identified," the Lithuanian military said in a statement earlier on Wednesday.

"People (are) working round the clock. Everybody remains on standby, ready to provide emergency medical support," Lithuanian Defence Minister Dovile Sakaliene said on X.

Lithuania, a NATO and EU member, hosts more than 1,000 American troops, who are stationed on a rotational basis.

"I would like to personally thank the Lithuanian armed forces and first responders who quickly came to our aid in our search operations," said Lieutenant General Charles Costanza, the V Corps commanding general.

Source:bbc.com

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https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cpv49r9me01o

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Trump official visits mega-jail holding deported Venezuelans

Mar. 27, 2025

US Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem has released a social media video filmed inside a controversial mega-prison in El Salvador, thanking the country and its president for "bringing our terrorists here and incarcerating them".

Secretary Noem was in the country to tour the facility, where US officials recently sent 238 Venezuelans.

In a cell behind her as she spoke were dozens of bare-chested and tattooed Salvadoran members from the MS-13 and the 18th Street gangs.

The trip suggests President Trump does not intend to back down from his immigration policy in the face of an injunction, upheld by an appeals court, on removing the Venezuelans from US soil under the 1798 Alien Enemies Act.

Secretary Noem described the prison as "one of the tools in our toolbox". and warned people that "if you come to our country illegally, this is one of the consequences you could face".

As part of her visit, she is due to meet Salvadoran President Nayib Bukele, an ally of US President Donald Trump, who had the Terrorism Confinement Centre (Cecot) facility as part of his own crackdown on gang crime in El Salvador.

President Bukele made the offer to incarcerate deportees and prisoners from the US at the Cecot during a recent visit to the Central American nation by Secretary of State Marco Rubio.

The move has prompted an outcry in the US and Venezuela, with several family members of the deportees insisting their relatives do not belong to any gang.

As Secretary Noem was being shown around the notorious facility on Wednesday, the Trump Administration received another setback in its effort to send foreign nationals there.

An appeals court in Washington DC upheld a decision by a lower court to put a temporary injunction on the deportation of Venezuelan immigrants under the 1798 act, which allows for the expulsion of foreign citizens with little due process.

The use of the act has drawn an outcry from immigration lawyers and activists who argue that some men accused of being gang members have been sent to El Salvador and locked up in the mega-prison on the basis of little evidence, including simply having tattoos.

Human rights groups have warned that the jail, in which inmates are held in windowless cells and sleep on bare metal bunks, is a "concrete and steel pit".

The White House continues to insist that all those they rounded up are dangerous gang members and were carefully vetted.

However, several of their family members in Venezuela say their loved ones had no prior convictions.

The deportation of 238 Venezuelans to the Cecot earlier this month has also put the Trump Administration into open conflict with a federal judge, James Boasberg, over the use of the centuries-old law to justify their quick deportation.

Judge Boasberg has since imposed an injunction on further deportations under the law, which was last invoked during World War Two.

The fate of the Venezuelans has also come under severe criticism by a Washington Court of Appeals judge who said that even "Nazis got better treatment under the Alien Enemies Act".

The comparison prompted a furious reaction from senior officials in the Trump Administration.

Meanwhile, lawyers in El Salvador, apparently acting in coordination with the Venezuelan government, have lodged a petition with the Salvadorean Supreme Court to try to secure the immediate release of the men.

The deportations to El Salvador under Trump's second term are part of the president's long-running campaign against illegal immigration in the US.

He won over voters on the campaign trail, in part, by promising to enact the largest deportation operation in US history.

In January, Trump signed an executive order declaring Tren de Aragua and MS-13 foreign terrorist organisations.

While irregular border crossings have plummeted to the lowest number in decades since Trump took office, the Republican president has reportedly been frustrated by the relatively slow pace of deportations so far.

Source:bbc.com

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https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cj4nrdnp018o

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Six lingering questions about Trump officials' Signal chat

Mar. 27, 2025

For the past 48 hours, top White House officials have faced questions from lawmakers and the press about how a journalist came to join a sensitive group chat for an upcoming military operation - and why President Donald Trump's national security team was sharing sensitive information in an unsecure manner.

The Atlantic first reported details of the group chat on the platform Signal after its editor in chief, Jeffrey Goldberg, was added to it. He followed the thread as top Trump administration officials discussed upcoming military strikes against the Houthis in Yemen.

A National Security Council spokesman later confirmed that the portions of the chat that Mr Goldberg initially shared "appears to be authentic".

The Atlantic then on Wednesday published the entire text thread that showed the detailed and potentially classified rundown for a March strike on Yemen after Mr Goldberg and the publication faced pushback from the Trump administration.

While the thread appears to have contained sensitive information, there is still much that remains unknown. Here are six lingering questions regarding so-called "Signal-gate".

Was the information classified or not?

The Trump administration maintains the information shared in the chat was not classified.

Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard told lawmakers during a congressional hearing that the Signal chat was "candid and sensitive" but "no classified information was shared".

But under questioning, she and CIA Director John Ratcliffe appeared uncertain about the classification of the attack plan. They later emphasised that Hegseth had the power to classify and declassify the type of details that were shared.

Hegseth has denied sharing classified material, but experts are sceptical that this type of sensitive information would not carry that kind of designation.

"The idea this wasn't classified information at the time is inconceivable," Glenn Gerstell, former general counsel of the National Security Agency, told the BBC. "I don't know if they declassified it afterwards but any imminent military action involving American troops would have been classified at the time."

White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said Wednesday that "no war plans" were discussed on the chat. Instead, she characterised the information shared as "sensitive policy discussions".

Jamil Jaffer, executive director of the National Security Institute at George Mason University, said that Hegseth did not send "an operational plan for World War Three, or for the Pacific region".

"But at the same time," Mr Jaffer said, "these are operational details that could, if released publicly, put American lives at risk or jeopardise the success of the operation."

Who added Goldberg to the group and why?

In his original article, Mr Goldberg reports that on 11 March he initially "received a connection request on Signal from a user identified as Michael Waltz", Trump's national security adviser.

Two days later, he writes that he received a notice that he was to be included in a Signal group titled the "Houthi PC small group."

Mr Goldberg reports that the group received a message from Waltz, which also noted one of his deputies was "pulling together" a team of top staffers relevant to the discussion.

On Tuesday, Trump suggested that a "lower level" staffer for Waltz added Mr Goldberg to the chat.

However, Waltz himself told Fox News' Laura Ingraham: "I take full responsibility. I built the - I built the group."

Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who was also in the group, said on Wednesday that someone had made a "mistake" in adding Mr Goldberg.

Will there be a congressional investigation?

It remains to be seen whether Congress will launch oversight investigations, which it has the power to pursue.

Trump is a Republican, and both chambers of Congress - the House of Representatives and the Senate - are controlled by his party.

That means committees who have oversight of the executive branch, military, and intelligence community are run by Republicans.

Republican lawmakers have emphatically supported the Trump administration's agenda to this point, so it seems improbable that they would support investigations into the Signal chat.

Democrats in the House are reportedly trying to force a vote on a "Resolution of Inquiry" that would require the Trump administration to hand over records related to the incident, according to Reuters, but they do not have a majority.

While some Republicans have raised concerns over the leak, few have appeared eager to cross the president.

Will anyone step down over the Signal incident?

Democratic lawmakers are calling for resignations, but at the moment, none of the officials involved in the Signal chat have stepped down.

Hegseth and Waltz have faced the most calls to resign, and some cabinet officials have said that their process will go under review.

"I think there'll be reforms and changes made," Rubio told reporters on Wednesday.

Still, it is unclear if the president will ask any members of his team to step down. So far, the White House has launched a full-court defence of the Signal chat and the officials who participated.

Trump told reporters in the Oval Office that Waltz "took responsibility", but has previously maintained that he has not lost confidence in his national security adviser.

Hegseth also appears safe from Trump's ire for now.

"Hegseth is doing a great job. He had nothing to do with this," the president said.

How extensive is the Trump administration's use of Signal?

The use of Signal to discuss the Houthi strikes posed broader questions about how Trump's top staffers are sharing and discussing sensitive information.

Gabbard testified on Wednesday that Signal came "pre-installed on government devices".

She cited guidance from the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, which mentioned Signal as an example of a messaging service with end-to-end encryption.

Ratcliffe earlier testified to Congress that Signal had been installed on his devices when he took over the CIA.

But it remains uncertain if security officials had provided guidance about using Signal for discussing military operations like the strikes against the Houthis.

"Whether these circumstances were approved or not is still not clear," Mr Jaffer said.

CBS News, the BBC's US partner, has reported, however, that the US National Security Agency had warned employees against using Signal due to "a vulnerability" that they had identified.

"The use of Signal by common targets of surveillance and espionage activity has made the application a high value target to intercept sensitive information," warned the NSA bulletin that was shared a month before the Houthi Strike chat.

Why was Trump's team using Signal to discuss a strike?

The group chat appears to suggest that the officials' discussion was one that had continued from the White House Situation Room, one of the most secure venues in the US government.

This is unusual. Oftentimes further discussion or the inclusion of team members who cannot attend in person is done via secure rooms called sensitive compartmented information facility, or SCIFs.

Top-ranking national security officials have these SCIFs installed in their offices and homes to ensure the protection of sensitive information and discussions.

That can add a layer of complexity to planning and coordination, however, which may have led to lax security system standards.

"Whatever they have might not be effective enough," Mr Jaffer said. "Or there's so many restrictions on it, that it forces senior officials into workarounds that themselves might create vulnerabilities."

Source:bbc.com

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https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c5y41xdrxnyo

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Africa

 

Islamic Scholar Calls For Heart Of Kindness Among Political Elites

Mar 26, 2025

IBADAN: A popular Islamic Scholar based in Ibadan, Shiek Ismaheel Gbamolada, has called on political elites to cultivate the habit of kindness to address the country’s level of hardship.

Speaking as Guest Lecturer at the 5th Ramadan Lecture organized by the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Kingsway Pharmacy and Supermarket, who also doubles as the founder of the Kingsway Health and Outreach Foundation {KIHOF}, Alhaji Amuda Hafeez, Sheik Ismaheel Gbamolada urged government and well meaning Nigerians to always support the less privileged in the society.

In his lecture titled, “Heart of Kindness”, the Guest Lecturer, Alhaji Sheik Ismaheel Gbamolada urged government at all levels to rise to the yearnings of the people by providing succour to the ongoing economic hardship in the country.

The Ibadan-based popular Islamic scholar called on well meaning Nigerians to emulate the philanthropic gesture of the founder of Kingsway Foundation, Alhaji Amuda Hafeez who has chosen to continue helping the less privileged in the society. He noted that there is no other good deeds that is superior to this kind gesture. He affirmed that Nigerians must continue to extend the attitude of kindness to one another.

He said, “We all knows what is good and what is bad, the people at the government knows what is the right to do for the masses, they must not wait until people starve to death before they start doing something meaningful, Nigeria needs people’s oriented policies to survive, our government knows the right thing to do, but they refused, some well meaning Nigerians knows the right things to do but they refused and that is why the hunger and starvation related death are very rampant these days.

“People are not ready to help the less privileged in the society, people no longer have sympathy for each others again, only few just like Alhaji Amuda have the heart of kindness and until we all cultivate the habit of giving and start to exhibit the heart of kindness to one another that we are going to enjoy this our country.” Sheik Gbamolada said.

In his usual philanthropic nature, the Kingsway Foundation, Alhaji Amuda Hafeez empowered no fewer than one hundred and Fifty (150) widows, while many residents received free medical attention.

The Kingsway Health and Outreach Foundation {KIHOF} was officially launched in the year 2024 in Akinyele local government area of Ibadan, the Capital City of Oyo State, with the aim of assisting the less privileged people in the society.

Speaking with the pressmen shortly after the Ramadan Lecture held at Community School Apapa Moniya, Ibadan, Alhaji Amuda Hafeez called on the well meaning Nigerians to always support the less privileged in the society.

In his words, Amuda said, “to the glory of God, today we have supported over 150 widows with reasonable amount of money, we also offered free medical services for residents of this communities and people that came from far distances for this lecture.

“we’ve gave out free medications to the beneficiaries based on their health status, our medical personnel have been on ground attending to people since morning and part of their job is to conduct a free tests which comprises the BP test and Sugar level test, we’ve also offered professional medical advise to the beneficiaries, this informations are very crucial to them, as it will help them to manage and stabilize their health.

“Apart from that, we’ve also collected some names of widows that were not initially captured on our register and we are working on how to incorporate them on our payroll, we are actually going to give out free food for everyone here so at least they can have a well balanced diet tonight, these among others we are doing in our foundation just to assist the less privileged in our society.

“This has become an annual event, we did same thing last year, but the numbers of widows we catered for last year are not up to the current number we have today, We understand that there is hardship in the country and we know people are actually passing through alot in this country, some families cannot afford three square meals as we speak, that is why our foundation is doing this to ameliorate the suffering.” Amuda said.

When asked if his philanthropic gesture has political undertones, Alhaji Amuda Hafeez said, “I don’t have any political ambition for now, I’m just doing this to help my people, it’s like giving back to the society, and we have started this for long, this is our 5th Ramadan Lecture and this has given us the opportunity to do more for our people and we will continue to do more because this program has become an annual event.”

In his remarks, the Executive Chairman of Akinyele Local Government, Hon Akinwole Akinleye lauded Alhaji Hafeez for what he called the timely support initiatives for the less privileged in the society.

He maintained that Alhaji Amuda Hafeez has always been in the forefront when it comes to helping the less privileged in the society especially the downtrodden in Akinyele Local Government.

He said, “This man(Alhaji Amuda Hafeez) has been helping people and he has been doing this for a very long time up till now, this kind of gesture is very rare among our people and that is why we always come here every year to give him support, this is someone that has been spending out of the little he has to support the masses and I think he also deserves our support.

“It is very important that we continue to support him so he can also continue with this laudable initiative.” Akinleye said.

Highlights of the event include Quran recitation, Iftar, special prayers request, among others.

Source:independent.ng

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https://independent.ng/islamic-scholar-calls-for-heart-of-kindness-among-political-elites/

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FG declares 2-day public holiday for Eid-el-Fitr 

March 27, 2025

THE Federal Government has declared Monday, March 31, and Tuesday, April 1, as public holidays to mark the Eid-el-Fitr celebration. 

The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, announced this in a statement signed by the ministry’s permanent secretary, Magdalene Ajani, on Wednesday, March 26.

Eid-el-Fitr, meaning ‘festival of breaking the fast,’ is one of the most important feasts in Islam.

The festival marks the end of Ramadan, a sacred month of fasting, prayer, and spiritual reflection observed by Muslims worldwide.

During Ramadan, Muslims fast from dawn to sunset, abstaining from food, drink, and other physical needs as an act of devotion to Allah.

The period also emphasises increased prayer, self-discipline, and charity.

Eid-el-Fitr is a time of joy and gratitude, beginning with a special congregational prayer at mosques and open prayer grounds.

It is also marked by feasting, gift-giving, and charitable acts, particularly the giving of Zakat al-Fitr, a mandatory charity given to the less privileged before the Eid prayer.

Congratulating Muslims on the successful completion of Ramadan, Tunji-Ojo urged them to “embrace the virtues of self-discipline, compassion, generosity, and peace.”

Source:icirnigeria.org

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Scholars Weigh In On Political And Social Implications

27 Mar 2025

Professor Kamilu Sani Fage, a political science scholar from Bayero University, Kano (BUK), said the rejection of Seyi’s gesture stems from several factors.

“Number one, there is no constitutional backing for the office of the son of the president. The perception in the North is that his gesture is a form of denigration. Agreed, we are fasting, but distributing food like this while giving cash empowerment in the South is seen as an insult.

“Additionally, many northerners are unhappy with how Seyi interacts with our revered traditional rulers. He shakes hands with them in their palaces, unlike the deference he shows to Chiefs and Obas from his region,” he said.

Fage warned that if the Tinubu administration does not address the deepening dissatisfaction in the North, it could significantly impact the ruling party’s electoral prospects.

“I would rate the impact of Seyi’s action as very low in the North because the region has borne the brunt of poverty, anger, insecurity and unemployment under this administration. If this continues, the level of dissatisfaction could seriously affect the APC’s chances in 2027,” he said.

Dr Seyid Hassan Cisse, a political scientist, also attributed the rejection to the perception in the North that the palliatives are linked to the presidency’s political agenda.

“When the state of the economy is in bad shape and you try to use charity to win over the people, they may see through it. The North has always been politically assertive, and they view this as a calculated attempt to secure their votes,” he said.

Cisse, a lecturer at Kwara State University, explained that many perceive Seyi Tinubu’s Ramadan gestures as an attempt by the presidency—or his father—to pacify the public amid growing economic hardship.

He added that the rejection of the gesture in certain parts of the North was more of a political statement than a religious one. “Basically, the part of the North that rejected it is only trying to take a political stand, even though that is not right Islamically. I wouldn’t say there is a shift of interest regarding the APC in 2027.”

While acknowledging the influence of the opposition in shaping public sentiment, he argued that their role should not be overstated. “The opposition always has a second agenda in any democratic system, but this narrative is not an empirical conclusion.”

He urged the APC and other political actors to rethink their engagement strategies, saying, “Political parties and politicians seeking power at any level must find ways to genuinely connect with the people.

“The politics now is more than sharing rice, beans, or minor palliatives. People are becoming more enlightened,” he said.

Like Cisse, many other analysts believe the reactions that trailed Seyi’s gesture in the North are a wake-up call for the ruling APC. They observed that the rejection of the initiative highlights the deepening economic struggles facing the North and the growing discontent with the Tinubu administration.

Dr Mohammed Alada, a former Head of the Department of Political Science at the University of Ilorin, believes the controversy is tied to northern aspirations for the 2027 election.

“Some sections of the North feel they have been short-changed by this government. They had high hopes, which have now been dashed. That is why they are rejecting anything linked to this administration,” he said.

Political observers suggest that rather than short-term palliatives, the government must focus on sustainable policies that address economic hardship, especially in the North, to regain public trust as Nigeria inches closer to 2027.

Source:dailytrust.com

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https://dailytrust.com/scholars-weigh-in-on-political-and-social-implications/

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Sallah: Fed Govt declares Monday, Tuesday public holidays

March 27, 2025

by Blessing Olaifa, Abuja

The Federal Government has declared Monday, 31st March and Tuesday, 1st April , as public holidays to mark the Eid-il-Fitr celebration.

Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, made the declaration on behalf of the Federal Government.

He extended warm congratulations to the Muslim Ummah on the successful completion of the Ramadan fast.

Dr. Tunji-Ojo urged all Muslims to embrace the virtues of self-discipline, compassion, generosity and peace, emphasising the importance of love, forgiveness, and solidarity in building a harmonious society.

In a statement signed by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr Magdalene Ajani, the minister called on Nigerians to use this festive period to pray for peace, stability, and prosperity of the nation.

He expressed hope that the joyous occasion of Eid-il-Fitr would inspire unity and cooperation across religious and ethnic lines.

Dr. Tunji-Ojo also encouraged citizens to celebrate safely and responsibly, while remembering the less privileged through acts of kindness and charity, in keeping with the true spirit of Ramadan and Eid.

Source:thenationonlineng.net

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https://thenationonlineng.net/sallah-fed-govt-declares-monday-tuesday-public-holidays/

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Over 328 performs I’tikaf at Alausa Secretariat Mosque

March 27, 2025

by Tajudeen Adebanjo

Over 330 people are currently observing I’tikaf at the Lagos Secretariat Community Central Mosque (LSCCM), Alausa, Ikeja.

I’tikaf is a spiritual retreat, a period of staying in a mosque to dedicate oneself to worship and stay away from worldly affairs, often practiced during the last ten days of Ramadan.

LSCCM Chairman  AbdulAfis Gbolahan Toriola, an Engineer, said the mosque attracted large number due to the welfare package put in place by his management team.

Toriola, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Housing, said the gathering is about improving our spiritual lives, to know more about Islam and make us a more dutiful Muslim in line with the principles of Islam. It is part of the Islamic mode of worship especially during the last 10 days of Ramadan where an individual will just find a place to get closer to Allah.”

He hailed the participants for adhering to the rules and regulations.

Toriola appealed to them to continue to be dutiful to Allah after Ramadan.

Special Adviser to Lagos State Governor on Political, Legislative, and Civic Engagement, Dr Tajudeen Afolabi, said participants have seized the special period to pray for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Governor Babatunde Sanwo-Olu and the country.

Dr Afolabi, the immediate past chairman of the LSCCM, described the atmosphere as conducive, spiritual fulfilling and knowledge enriching.

He hailed his successor and his team for building on their progress.

“I knew that with him (Toriola) in charge of this mosque, we can sleep and close our eyes. He has never disappointed. You can see developmental changes in the mosque courtesy of the new administration. He has taken over from where I stopped with new development in the mosque,” he said.

He enjoined fellow participants to maintain their spirituality and relate with another in the best manner.

Alhaji Kayode Awobadejo, who said this is his sixth consecutive year of observing I’tikaf in the mosque, said the mosque management ensures participants are focused with their spiritual activities by providing meals for Sahur and Iftar.

He said: “Once you made payment, it is their business to take care of you. And, overtime, they have perfected it and if there is a problem, you can call their attention. It will be properly looked into. You pay your money and get peace of mind.

“There has been a change in the executive members but the same principle of service delivery is still in operation.”

Mr AbdulMajeed Adegbite said he decided to use the mosque due to its secured and peaceful environment.

Source:thenationonlineng.net

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https://thenationonlineng.net/over-328-performs-itikaf-at-alausa-secretariat-mosque/

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Ramadan: Sen Wamakko Facilitates Release Of 60 Inmates

By Abubakar Auwal

26 Mar 202

Senator Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko, representing Sokoto-North Senatorial District, on Wednesday, secured the release of 60 inmates after paying their fines.

The inmates were convicted over minor offences such as theft, fight among others.

He also gave each of the freed inmates N10,000 for transport.

Speaking at the occasion, the Attorney General of the state and Commissioner of Justice, Barrister Nasiru Binji, described the gesture as laudable and commendable.

“This is the kind of gesture we are looking for, especially due to the congested nature of our correctional centers,” he said

According to him, the gesture came at the right time when there were reported cases of meningitis in some parts of the state.

“So, his gesture is worthy of emulation. We are appealing to other wealthy individuals to follow his example, considering the unhygienic condition of our correctional facilities,” the Attorney General who was represented by Barr Umar Aliyu stated.

Also speaking, the Chairperson of the Nigeria Bar Association (NBA), Sokoto state’s chapter, Barrister Rashidat Muhammad said the gesture was like a dream come true for the association which has been advocating for community services for minor offences and settlement of fine for those who could not afford to.pay.

“So this exercise is in line with our objective and even the judiciary will be glad with this gesture, because looking at the principles of administration of criminal justice we have been advocating for community service for lesser offences and this issue of fine settlement for inmates that could not afford to pay.

“For the fact that, this gesture is coming at the month of Ramadan, the inmates were not only freed but would celebrate their Salah with their families at their various houses. So is a source of joy to NBA.

“Let me also encourage him not to relent in doing this gesture and on our own part, we are willing to support him and other individuals that are doing so,” she said

She also advised the government and other stakeholders in the administration of justice to see the possibility of none custodian sentence for minor offences to avoided mixing minor offenders with hard criminals in the prison.

Source:dailytrust.com

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https://dailytrust.com/ramadan-sen-wamakko-facilitates-release-of-60-inmates/

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Rivers NASS Lawmakers Visit Amaewhule, Urge Fubara To Obey Supreme Court Ruling

March 27, 2025

By Enioluwa Adeniyi

Rivers State members of the National Assembly have pledged their unwavering support to the Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Martins Amaewhule, following the Supreme Court’s dismissal of Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s appeal regarding the legitimacy of the pro-Wike members of the House.

The delegation, led by the lawmaker representing Rivers South-East, Senator Barry Mpigi, and accompanied by Senator Allwell Onyesoh, representing Rivers West, as well as Hon. Kingsley Chinda, the Minority Leader of the House of Representatives, met with Amaewhule to show solidarity and reaffirm their commitment to the Speaker.

Also present were Hon. Felix Nwaeke, Hon. Victor Obuzor, Hon. Mrs. Blessing Amadi, Hon. Cyril Hart, and Hon. Dumnamene Dekor, who all reiterated their loyalty to Amaewhule’s leadership.

In a press conference held earlier in Port Harcourt, the lawmakers emphasized that the Supreme Court’s ruling, which dismissed the Governor’s appeal against the pro-Wike House members, affirmed Amaewhule as the rightful Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly.

Naija News reports that Chinda, while speaking on behalf of the lawmakers, urged Governor Fubara to respect the rule of law by adhering to the court’s orders and ceasing to engage with the faction led by Victor Oko-Jumbo.

He called on the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, and the Rivers State Commissioner of Police, Olugbenga Adepoju, to enforce the Supreme Court’s directive.

“It is important to emphasize that with the withdrawal of the Governor’s appeal and the dismissal of the suit with cost, the judgment by Hon. Justice J. K. Omotosho, which was upheld by the Court of Appeal, now stands final.

“This judgment includes the recognition of Rt. Hon. Martins Amaewhule as the Speaker and the acknowledgment of the 27 members of the Rivers State House of Assembly as the legitimate House of Assembly of Rivers State,” Chinda said

Chinda also reminded Governor Fubara that in his Notice of Withdrawal to the Supreme Court, he had acknowledged Amaewhule as the Speaker.

Therefore, Chinda insisted, “There is no longer any dispute about who holds the position of Speaker, and any further attempts to recognize another person or forum as the legitimate House of Assembly would be contemptuous of the Supreme Court’s ruling.”

Chinda warned that any continued defiance of the Supreme Court’s ruling would not only undermine the judgment but could also lead to political chaos and lawlessness in the state.

He urged all parties to respect the court’s authority and ensure peace in Rivers State’s political landscape.

Source:naijanews.com

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https://www.naijanews.com/2025/03/27/rivers-nass-lawmakers-visit-amaewhule-urge-fubara-to-obey-supreme-court-ruling/

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Obasanjo: You Turned Yourself To Kingmaker, Demigod – Presidency Fires ‘Grandfather Of Hypocrisy’

March 27, 2025

The Presidency has slammed former President Olusegun Obasanjo for criticising President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s decision to declare a State of Emergency in Rivers State.

Naija News reports that Obasanjo, during the birthday Colloquium of former Imo State Governor, Emeka Ihedioha, stated that “Democracy is not about power grabbing illegally and telling victims to go to court.”

The former President slammed Tinubu for suspending Governor Siminalayi Fubara; his Deputy, Ngozi Odu and the Rivers State House of Assembly.

Reacting in a statement on Wednesday, the Special Assistant to Tinubu on Social Media, Olusegun Dada, described Obasanjo as the grandfather of hypocrisy in Nigeria at the moment.

He accused Obasanjo of turning himself into a kingmaker and a demigod in his second term in office between 2003-2004.

His statement read: “Coming to Obasanjo’s remarks at the Ihedioha Colloquium, it is obvious that OBJ is trying every trick possible to whitewash his bad democratic records by trying to exonerate himself from blame for how Nigeria’s democracy has fared.

“It is shocking to many who were adults during the Obasanjo 1999-2007 era to hear OBJ preaching that “Democracy is not about power grabbing illegally and telling victims to go to court.” He even said democracy is dying in Nigeria.

“This is the same OBJ that turned himself into a kingmaker and a demigod in his second term in office between 2003-2004. Anybody who disagreed with him became prey.

“This is an OBJ who worked with his then VP, Atiku Abubakar to steal opposition states for PDP thanks to their job man, Prof. Maurice Iwu who was INEC Chairman. OBJ made sure incumbent governors of Ekiti, Ogun, Osun, Ondo, and Oyo states who all belonged to AD were rigged out using federal might. Only Lagos survived the rigging onslaught.

“Atiku himself later willingly confessed publicly how they spared only Lagos governed by Bola Tinubu in the South West that was formerly controlled by AD as of 1999.

“This is the same OBJ under whose democratic watch, a sitting governor of Anambra State was forced to sign a resignation letter at gunpoint (not by hoodlums but by an AIG) and thereafter abducted. If not for fate and smartness of Ngige, the democratic coup would have succeeded with the possible termination of the life of Ngige.

“This is the same OBJ that changed Senate Presidents at will and introduced a never-seen-before level of cash inducement of NASS members.

“This is the same OBJ that went on an impeachment spree from 2005 to 2006 masterminding the impeachment of Governors of the following states:

“Bayelsa (DSP), Ekiti (Fayose), Plateau (Dariye), Oyo (Ladoja), Anambra (Obi).

“He attempted to impeach Boni Haruna of Adamawa too. All those kangaroo impeachments were set aside by the courts except Bayelsa because they did not follow due process – from Anambra where the lawmakers went to a hotel in another state to carry out impeachment to Oyo where Oyo NURTW Chairman acted as Speaker to impeach Rashidi Ladoja.

“It is this same OBJ that unilaterally declared the seat of his then Vice President, Atiku Abubakar vacant over his corruption indictment by a panel of inquiry. Atiku who has now become a serial presidential candidate slept in the courts towards the 2007 general election season. OBJ at a time declared unnecessary national public holidays just to prevent the courts from sitting to rule on Atiku’s court challenge.

“This is also the same OBJ who desperately tried to go for a third term through a deceitful constitutional amendment targeted principally at tenure elongation.

“As that third-term bid failed, he tried to install his handpicked successors by conducting the worst presidential election in Nigeria’s history – an election that even the beneficiary of the election publicly admitted was fundamentally flawed.

“OBJ who is criticizing President Tinubu for declaring a state of emergency in Rivers State and suspending the Governor and the assembly has forgotten that in May 2004 he declared a state of emergency in Plateau State and suspended both Gov. Joshua Dariye and the state assembly and appointed Gen. Chris Ali (Rtd) as Sole Administrator. He also did the same thing in Ekiti State.

“In Obasanjo’s case, his reason for suspending Dariye and the Plateau legislature is because Gov. Dariye failed to act to end a cycle of violence between Plateau State’s Muslim and Christian communities. He didn’t accuse the Plateau assembly of anything, yet he suspended them. Ironically OBJ is criticising Tinubu for suspending Gov. Fubara and Rivers House of Assembly members who are the direct actors that created the emergency in Rivers State.

“Obasanjo is simply the grandfather of hypocrisy in Nigeria at the moment.”

Source:naijanews.com

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

https://www.naijanews.com/2025/03/27/obasanjo-you-turned-yourself-to-kingmaker-demigod-presidency-fires-grandfather-of-hypocrisy/

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Niger's junta, Abdourahamane Tchiani sworn in as transitional president for a period of five years

March 27, 2025

Abdourahamane Tchiani, the leader of Niger's junta, was officially sworn in as the country's president on Wednesday, for a five-year transitional period, following a new charter that supersedes the existing constitution.

This decision effectively dismissed efforts by the regional organization to expedite a return to democratic governance after the coup in 2023.

According to Mahamane Roufai, the government's secretary-general, the five-year transition period commenced on Wednesday.

“The duration of the transition period is set at sixty months from the date of its promulgation. This duration is flexible depending on the country's security situation, the burden of the reform, and the agenda of the Confederation of Sahel States,” he said.

Tchiani, a seasoned army officer, was also promoted to the rank of army general, solidifying his authority since he led the military coup that ousted the elected government in June 2023.

By the conclusion of the transition period in 2030, Tchiani will have been in power for nearly seven years, mirroring the trend of extended rule seen in other junta-led nations in Africa, such as Mali, Guinea, and Burkina Faso.

Initially, Niger's junta suggested a three-year transition following the coup, but this proposal was rejected by ECOWAS, the regional bloc, which deemed it provocative and threatened military intervention.

In response, Niger, along with Mali and Burkina Faso, withdrew from the bloc in protest against the severe sanctions imposed to encourage a return to democracy.

Critics argue that Niger's junta has imposed restrictions on civil liberties and has struggled to address the jihadi violence that they claimed motivated their takeover.

Source:africanews.com

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https://www.africanews.com/2025/03/26/nigers-junta-abdourahamane-tchiani-sworn-in-as-transitional-president-for-a-period-of-five/

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Southeast Asia

 

Anwar meets with Hindu temple committee after mosque groundbreaking ceremony, following amicable resolution to relocation dispute

By Kenneth Tee

27 Mar 2025

KUALA LUMPUR, March 27 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim today met with the Dewi Sri Pathrakaliamman Temple’s committee in a sign of goodwill following the amicable resolution to a decade-long relocation dispute.

The prime minister initiated the meet after the groundbreaking ceremony for the Madani Mosque on the land owned by Jakel Trading Sdn Bhd — where the temple, set to be relocated, currently sits.

During the brief meet, temple committee chairman K Barthiban said Anwar gave his assurance that the federal government was committed to an amicable resolution on the ongoing matter.

“He said we should all come together as a family by living harmoniously and that the government looks after the interest of all.

“We are glad things worked out in the end,” he told Malay Mail, when met at the temple following the ceremony.

Anwar had attended the mosque groundbreaking ceremony after he previously confirmed the event was to proceed as scheduled, despite opposition from some quarters.

Heightened security was also observed around the temple perimeter, with only state news agency Bernama allowed to cover the event.

Malay Mail also observed several police officers deployed for crowd control and security along Jalan Munshi Abdullah to deter any form of commotion.

No untoward incidents were observed after the event concluded around 11.30am.

Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) previously confirmed that the temple will be relocated to another site agreeable to parties involved, following a proposal by landowner Jakel Trading to build a mosque on its land.

According to city officials, the new site will be roughly 50 metres away from the current one and that the temple will continue to operate until the relocation process begins.

Jakel Trading bought the plot in question from DBKL in 2014, allegedly without the temple management being informed of the matter.

Source:malaymail.com

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

https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2025/03/27/anwar-meets-with-hindu-temple-committee-after-mosque-groundbreaking-ceremony-following-amicable-resolution-to-relocation-dispute/171039

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PM Anwar hopes MADANI Mosque can serve as community centre for Muslims, city dwellers

Bernama

27-03- 2025

KUALA LUMPUR: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim today expressed hope that the MADANI Mosque to be built on Jalan Masjid India here could also serve as a local community centre for Muslims and city dwellers.

Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony for the MADANI Mosque project today, Anwar said the four-storey mosque, measuring 12,142 sq ft, will also have a library, an event hall and an arts and cultural space to introduce Islam to the public.

“This mosque not only serves the purpose of a mosque in the city and reflects the philosophy about our development rooted in Islamic faith, which places good values and morals to bring Muslims together, but also embraces and shows love to the people around us.

“(Deputy Prime Minister) Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof mentioned that he suggested that there should be a cultural and arts space, a place for the community to gather at this city mosque and for non-Muslims to not feel awkward but to know the moderate values of Islam, full of mercy and wisdom,” he said.

On the issue plaguing the mosque project previously, the Prime Minister reiterated that good negotiations must be carried out to maintain racial harmony.

“If you look at the issue, my colleagues in the Cabinet indeed know, I have said it firmly, to negotiate, tolerate, but not to budge from our decision that a mosque must be built here.

“This is not to show our victory or arrogance, but because we are able to show the wisdom, strength and glory of Islam not with arrogance. That is success...because success is when we can emerge as good, just, caring examples and personalities and not with cruelty or hatred,” he said.

At the same time, Anwar also rapped certain Muslim and Hindu groups who were overly negative and reacted without thinking about the negative consequences of their statements on the issue.

“This country will be ruined if everyone wants to be a hero, wants to be a leader but speaking on behalf of only one race and bandying about racial hatred sentiments, regardless of the law, regardless of whether it is true or false,” he said.

Anwar also thanked Kuala Lumpur City Hall, the Federal Territories Department, Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo and Deputy Minister of Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives Datuk Seri R. Ramanan who helped with the explanation and negotiations that had enabled the issue to be resolved.

Apart from that, Anwar wanted all parties involved in the construction of the mosque, including the Jakel Group and the Federal Territory Islamic Religious Council (MAIWP), to work together to find ways to strengthen friendship and unity between all communities.

He said that Malaysia should stand as a country that focuses on ensuring peace and security.

The groundbreaking ceremony was also attended by Fadillah, Minister of Communications Datuk Fahmi Fadzil, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Federal Territories) Datuk Seri Dr Zaliha Mustafa, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Datuk Dr Mohd Na’im Mokhtar and Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI) Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz.

Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar, Dewan Rakyat Speaker Tan Sri Johari Abdul and Jakel Group managing director Datuk Seri Mohamed Faroz Mohamed Jakel were in attendance.

The MADANI Mosque, which is based on Malaysian identity concept, is expected to be completed in two years, and will be able to accommodate approximately 2,900 worshippers at any one time, including 592 worshippers in the main prayer hall.

Source:thesun.my

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

https://thesun.my/malaysia-news/pm-anwar-hopes-madani-mosque-can-serve-as-community-centre-for-muslims-city-dwellers-KM13860497

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Selangor Sultan orders regular monitoring to prevent revival of deviant teachings

Bernama

26-03- 2025

SHAH ALAM: The Sultan of Selangor, Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah, has ordered relevant agencies to conduct regular monitoring to ensure previously eliminated deviant teachings do not resurface.

His Royal Highness also urged deviant teachings to be curbed at an early stage to prevent them from spreading and corrupting Muslims.

“I wish to remind Muslims, especially in Selangor, to continuously strengthen their faith and beliefs to avoid being misled by any teachings or ideologies that deviate from the Ahli Sunnah Wal Jamaah creed,“ the Selangor Ruler said, stressing that any deviation must be prevented from being practised in Selangor, as it could cause confusion and division among Muslims.

Sultan Sharafuddin said this during the iftar event with the people, the Hari Raya contribution presentation ceremony, and the opening of Masjid Raja Bendahara Tengku Badar Shah in Denai Alam today.

The Ruler said it is the responsibility of every Muslim to refer to the Mufti and fatwas when they encounter any misleading teachings or new contradictory doctrines and promptly report them to the Selangor Islamic Religious Council for enforcement.

His Royal Highness also advised Muslims to always uphold honesty and integrity, especially in managing assets related to asnaf groups or zakat funds, as well as in handling haj and umrah packages.

Sultan Sharafuddin expressed utmost regret over fraud incidents committed by unlicensed haj and umrah travel agencies.

“This deplorable act can also tarnish the sanctity of Islam in the eyes of non-Muslims...I urge and appeal to you (Muslims) to always remember the severe punishment of Allah that awaits.

“We may escape punishment in this world but we can never evade the severe judgment of Allah on the Day of Reckoning,“ the Sultan said.

Earlier, Sultan Sharafuddin, accompanied by Tengku Permaisuri of Selangor Tengku Permaisuri Norashikin and Raja Muda of Selangor Tengku Amir Shah, was greeted upon arrival at the mosque by Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari, state executive council members, and mosque leaders.

The Selangor Ruler also expressed gratitude for the opportunity to officiate seven new mosques across the state during Ramadan, in addition to distributing RM35.2 million in aid from the Selangor Zakat Board to 75,207 recipients from various districts in the state, while expressing hope that the assistance would help ease their burden, especially with the upcoming Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebrations.

Source:thesun.my

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

https://thesun.my/malaysia-news/selangor-sultan-orders-regular-monitoring-to-prevent-revival-of-deviant-teachings-FP13858490

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A beacon of interfaith harmony: Buddhist monastery offers free meals during Ramadan amid unrest

26 Mar 2025

DHAKA, March 26 — A Buddhist monastery in Bangladesh has found renown for opening its doors to the needy during Ramadan — a beacon of interfaith harmony in a time of religious tension.

For more than a decade, the Dharmarajika Buddhist Monastery in Dhaka has provided free meals for hundreds of the capital’s poorest residents to break their fast each evening during the Muslim holy month.

Its work has assumed a new resonance this year after political upheaval that last summer ousted autocratic leader Sheikh Hasina, leaving many religious minorities in the Muslim-majority nation fearful of persecution.

“I live nearby and earn very little from my job. This meal is a relief,” said Moushumi Begum, who joined around 200 others at the fast-breaking meal known as iftar.

“I am grateful for their kindness and pray to God for their wellbeing.”

The monastery’s abbot, Buddha Priya Mahathero, said the annual tradition began in 2013 with the simple principle that no one fasting should be turned away hungry.

“We have fostered a culture of harmony,” he told AFP.

“We saw people struggling for food during Ramadan. That’s when we decided to step in,” he added.

“What began as a small effort has continued, and we hope to keep doing our part.”

The monastery was founded in 1960, more than a decade before Bangladesh became an independent nation, and has long been known as a paragon of interfaith philosophy.

One of its biggest early initiatives was the establishment of an interfaith orphanage for children whose parents were killed during the country’s 1971 liberation war.

Buddhists make up around three per cent of Bangladesh’s population of 170 million, the second-largest religious minority after its substantial Hindu community.

‘Pledged to protect us’

Hasina’s ouster in last year’s student-led revolution saw several reprisal attacks against Hindu households.

The interim administration that took office after her toppling came down strongly on such attacks, arresting dozens of people in the months that followed.

It has also insisted that some of those attacks were motivated by political vengeance rather than religious animosity, and blamed organised disinformation from neighbouring India for exaggerating the magnitude of the problem.

Non-Muslim Bangladeshis have nonetheless voiced unease at developments since the fall of Hasina’s government, which despite a litany of rights abuses was seen as a steadfast protector of minority religious communities.

Numerous shrines to Sufi saints were vandalised after Hasina’s overthrow, with suspicion falling on Islamist hardliners who consider that branch of the Muslim faith heretical.

Several attacks on Hindu temples were also reported in the chaotic hours after Hasina went into exile in India.

The Dharmarajika Buddhist Monastery has not suffered a similar fate, and its custodians say that leaders from several political parties had paid visits to offer their respect and support.

“All of them pledged to protect us,” Swarupananda Bhikkhu, a monk at the monastery, told AFP.

“Our gates have always been open, regardless of religious identity.” — AFP

Source:malaymail.com

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

https://www.malaymail.com/news/life/2025/03/26/a-beacon-of-interfaith-harmony-buddhist-monastery-offers-free-meals-during-ramadan-amid-unrest/170921

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KL Archbishop thanks Islamic groups for Pope Francis prayers, calls for unity and peace

By Malay Mail

26 Mar 2025

KUALA LUMPUR, March 26 – The Archbishop of Kuala Lumpur today met with the Malaysian Consultative Council for Islamic Organisations (Mapim) representatives, expressing his gratitude for their prayers and well wishes for Pope Francis’ recovery.

In a statement, the Archdiocese of Kuala Lumpur said the meeting took place at Archbishop Julian Leow Beng Kim’s residence in Bukit Nanas.

“We appreciate your prayers for Pope Francis. We need to pray more for peace, as violence is never the answer.

“We put politics aside and support life, focusing on what is common and what unites us,” Leow said.

Mapim had earlier sent a letter offering prayers for the Pope’s health following his recent hospitalisation and thanking him for his support of the Palestinian people.

During the gathering, Leow also presented copies of The Document on Human Fraternity for World Peace and Living Together, also known as the Abu Dhabi Declaration, to his guests.

The document, signed in 2019 by Pope Francis and Sheikh Ahmed el-Tayeb, Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, promotes interfaith harmony and cooperation.

Both parties acknowledged the significance of unity, particularly during challenging times, reaffirming their commitment to mutual respect and collaboration

Ahmad Awang, the chairman of the Malaysian Ulama Association, highlighted that the ongoing strife in the Middle East is not rooted in religious differences but in political and other factors.

Leow and the Mapim representatives also stressed the need for people of faith to work together in promoting peace and harmony, both in Malaysia and globally.

Pope Francis left Rome’s Gemelli hospital on Sunday following a five-week stay to be treated for pneumonia, making his first public appearance.

Francis, 88, went to hospital on February 14 with a severe respiratory infection that became the most serious health crisis of his 12-year papacy.

Source:malaymail.com

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https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2025/03/26/kl-archbishop-thanks-islamic-groups-for-pope-francis-prayers-calls-for-unity-and-peace/170958

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LHDN offices closed on March 31 and April 1 for Aidilfitri

27 Mar 2025

PUTRAJAYA, March 27 — All Inland Revenue Board (LHDN) offices nationwide will be closed on March 31 and April 1 in conjunction with the Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebrations.

In a statement today, LHDN said operations will resume on April 2, except in Melaka and Sabah, where offices will reopen on April 3.

The closure in Melaka follows the state government’s decision to replace the traditional public holiday for the first day of Ramadan with the third day of Hari Raya starting this year.

Meanwhile, in Sabah, April 2 has been declared a public holiday in conjunction with the official birthday of Yang Dipertua Negeri Tun Musa Aman.

To avoid any inconvenience, LHDN encourages taxpayers to conduct their tax-related matters online via the MyTax portal at https://mytax.hasil.gov.my/ for a smoother and more efficient process.

“As we welcome the festive season, LHDN wishes all Muslim customers a Selamat Hari Raya Aidilfitri. May this occasion bring joy, blessings and prosperity to all,” it added. — Bernama

Source:malaymail.com

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

https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2025/03/27/lhdn-offices-closed-on-march-31-and-april-1-for-aidilfitri/171050/dw

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When Ramadan brings out the worst in some people, and the best in others — Zuhairy Fauzy

27 Mar 2025

MARCH 27 — A well-known hadith from Sahih Bukhari states that when the month of Ramadan arrives, the gates of paradise open, the gates of hell are closed, and the devils are fettered. It’s a pretty evocative hadith, taught to Muslim kids in school and at home as a reminder that they should be on their best behaviour while the devil is away. It drives the message that Ramadan is not just about fasting; it’s also about self-discipline and acts of kindness to your fellow humans.

Guess that older Malay man in a jubah who slapped that Chinese student for eating at a Family Mart during Ramadan did not get that memo. Maybe he forgot that this is the one month out of twelve where charity is enjoined and compassion is encouraged. Is it not the height of irony that in this supposed holiest of months, we have the devil’s ilk in our midst?

Look, I get it. I fast too. You don’t eat or drink for 14 hours. You’re hangry. Tempers are short. Takes a tiny little spark to light your fuse. But one must never lose sight of the end goal: that time of year where you’re supposed to exercise the most restraint and demonstrate patience in the face of any tribulations that come your way.

(Some) Malay Muslims throw a hissy fit, like spoilt toddlers, every time they see someone — Muslim or non-Muslim — eating in their presence during Ramadan. But aren’t Muslims also fond of recounting that the Battle of Badr, a key moment in Islamic history, was fought and won in the month of Ramadan? How significant is a random stranger minding their meal compared to the solemn and infinitely more onerous responsibility of leading troops to victory in the middle of the fasting month? Why can’t they follow the Prophet’s example in the latter?

In the case of the slapping incident at Johor Baru’s Angsana Mall, the fellow on the receiving end of the slap had repeatedly explained that he was a non-Muslim Chinese, and he had no obligation whatsoever to turn in his identity card to prove it, much less to eat in some hidden corner away from hungry Muslim eyes. He was assaulted all the same. This is what happens when people take it upon themselves to play judge, jury, and executioner.

And why is it that it’s always during Ramadan that we see a flare-up of all this nonsense? Every year there are calls by hardline voices in our society to shutter school canteens during Ramadan. Never mind that non-Muslim children, as well as Muslims who are unable to fast, need to eat; to these zealots, the feelings of those who fast are the only feelings that matter.

It does not help that many Muslims in this country are fed this never-ending siege mentality, this “us versus them” canard, drummed up nightly in ceramahs by certain ultraconservative preacher-politicians, that teaches Malays to think less of their fellow Malaysians who pray differently, or are of a different skin colour, or speak a different language. It’s a really sad state of affairs really. It’s bad for race relations, and it’s bad for the religion. As the good Prof Tajuddin Rasdi opines in one of his recent YouTube videos, if we don’t muzzle these demagogues demonising the “other” while their gullible followers swallow their vitriol hook, line, and sinker without a second thought, things will only get worse from here.

But the optimist in me tries to see the bright side of things. I recall an old comic by Lat, everyone’s favourite Malaysian cartoonist, depicting a murtabak (?) stall with a long, snaking queue of hungry customers from all racial backgrounds. At the head of the queue are a Chinese man, a young Malay boy in a songkok, and an Indian man in a bush jacket. Forgive me if the words are slightly off (I have not been able to find a copy of the comic online), but essentially the speech bubbles went like this:

Indian guy: “Why are you taking so long? It’s for all these people who are fasting you know!”

Chinese guy: “I’m giving this guy business what. Anyway, you fasting ah?”

In between them, the Malay boy in a songkok chirps the punchline: “Oi, fasting month cannot lose temper one!”

It’s charming on so many levels: a non-Malay buying plenty of murtabak so the Malay seller can bring home lots of dough (sorry!), another non-Malay telling the first non-Malay to be considerate for all the Muslims waiting in line, and then we have a little Malay kid bringing everyone back to earth, innocently yet firmly asking cool heads to prevail since you’re supposed to tahan (hold) your temper during Ramadan.

I miss this sort of comic. Not a hint of malice, always poking gentle fun, reminding Malaysians not to take themselves too seriously. But here I digress.

On a personal note, I had never been brought up by my parents, or taught by any of my teachers, to get upset when people eat around me during the fasting month. Growing up, the furthest that my parents went (and I’m sure a lot of other families did as well) was that the kids who were too young to fast had to wait till the grown-ups finished at the table, after which they could help themselves while their elders went for evening prayers. Which is fair enough. Even then, sometimes my parents did relent and let the young ‘uns eat together with their older siblings. Mums and dads will be mums and dads.

Since I’ve never taken offence to people eating around me during Ramadan, it always makes for an awkward conversation whenever my non-Muslim friends or colleagues tender their profuse apologies if they eat in my presence. To them I say, it’s okay, don’t mind me. Lunch is lunch. Carry on with your Subway footlong.

I recently had the pleasure of attending Datuk Seri Mujahid Yusof Rawa’s Majlis Buka Puasa Muhibbah at the historic Masjid Melayu Lebuh Acheh in the heart of George Town. It was a beautiful sight to see representatives and leaders from the Catholic, Hindu, Buddhist, and other religious communities attending iftar together with their Muslim brethren in the courtyard of a 200-year-old mosque, reminiscing about their shared experiences living in peace with their Malay neighbours and friends. (Also, the pecal was excellent eating; I wish there had been more to go around. My compliments to the chefs.)

I was told this is an annual event organised by the mosque committee, with Mujahid attending in his capacity as chairman of the mosque. You don’t have to think of him as a politician in this instance. You can look at him as a decent man trying to do the decent thing: fostering goodwill and mutual respect among the different races and religions that make up the colourful tapestry of Malaysian society. This is a very welcome contrast to the deluge of ugly headlines each time Ramadan comes around. Initiatives like these should get the limelight, as they help to construct a more positive narrative and promote unity rather than sow mistrust. They let people know that, in spite of all the pessimistic coverage surrounding race relations, there are noble souls out there who see beyond the headlines and understand that tolerance, understanding, and a live-and-let-live attitude to life should be the way forward.

Coming back to the unfortunate case of the pak cik slapping the leng chai at that JB mall, the damage is done. Nasi telah menjadi bubur. You can’t unscramble scrambled eggs. At the time of writing, the assailant has claimed trial to voluntarily causing hurt under Section 323 of the Penal Code. Let’s hope he gets to spend these final ten days of Ramadan — the holiest days in the holiest month — to engage in self-reflection (muhasabah) and teach his kids and/or grandkids that it’s totally okay if someone eats around you while you’re fasting, and that the power lies only within yourself to exercise sabr (patience) and restrain your nafs (ego).

On a more positive and hopeful note as we come to the end of Ramadan: I wish all of you Selamat Hari Raya. Have a great one, and let’s all be better humans, better Muslims, and better Malaysians next year, every year, always.

Source:malaymail.com

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

https://www.malaymail.com/news/what-you-think/2025/03/27/when-ramadan-brings-out-the-worst-in-some-people-and-the-best-in-others-zuhairy-fauzy/171047

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No RM2m compensation, Zaliha warns against provocation, don’t incite religious tensions

By Malay Mail

26 Mar 2025

KUALA LUMPUR, March 26 — Federal Territories Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zaliha Mustafa has denied claims by preacher Firdaus Wong that the government provided RM2 million in compensation to the Dewi Sri Pathrakaliamman Temple at Jalan Munshi Abdullah.

“This allegation is completely untrue and baseless,” she said in a statement.

As reported by Malaysiakini today, she urged all parties to avoid inciting religious or racial sentiments based on misinformation.

Zaliha clarified that the government had neither promised nor approved any compensation for the temple.

“In fact, there is no agreement or any other ‘deal’ aside from the resolution that I officially announced yesterday,” she was quoted as saying.

Zaliha stressed that the resolution was reached through harmonious discussions among all involved parties.

“Most importantly, the construction of the mosque, which had been delayed since 2020 on privately owned land, can now proceed as planned, while the temple management has agreed to relocate to an identified alternative site,” she said.

She also noted that this case should not set a precedent for future disputes.

“It is a specific resolution to this particular issue, handled wisely in accordance with legal provisions and with due consideration for the sensitivities of all parties involved,” she said.

Zaliha called for an end to the controversy, warning against the spread of inaccurate information that could threaten national harmony.

Source:malaymail.com

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https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2025/03/26/no-rm2m-compensation-zaliha-warns-against-provocation-dont-incite-religious-tensions/170982

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Tight security at Masjid Madani groundbreaking ceremony

theSun

27-03- 2025

PETALING JAYA: A strong police presence was seen at the groundbreaking ceremony for the Masjid Madani near Jalan Masjid India today, following the recent settlement of a dispute over relocating a Hindu temple partially situated on the site.

Over 100 police officers were deployed, strategically positioned near Jakel Square and adjacent areas. Security sweeps, including the use of sniffer dogs, were conducted within the mosque site’s perimeter, where officers formed a protective line.

Despite the heightened security measures, the event proceeded peacefully.

Public access via Jalan Munshi Abdullah remained unrestricted, with no roadblocks implemented.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim attended the ceremony, affirming the government’s commitment to the mosque project.

This followed public criticism concerning the temple’s relocation to accommodate the mosque’s construction.

Jakel Trading Sdn Bhd, the landowner, clarified that the land acquisition occurred in 2012, with construction approval granted in 2021.

Its legal head Aiman Dazuki stated that the company delayed construction out of respect for the temple’s relocation process. He emphasised the necessity of relocation due to land constraints, offering to cover the associated costs.

A resolution was reached on Tuesday, with the temple committee agreeing to relocate the temple 50 metres to a new 4,000 sq ft site, mirroring its current size.

Federal Territories Minister Dr. Zaliha Mustafa confirmed the agreement, paving the way for the mosque’s groundbreaking ceremony.

Source:thesun.my

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https://thesun.my/malaysia-news/tight-security-at-masjid-madani-groundbreaking-ceremony-KP13859245

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Temple relocation resolution shows govt’s success in handling religious sensitivities – JKOM DG

Bernama

27-03- 2025

KUALA LUMPUR: The harmonious resolution of the Dewi Sri Pathrakaliamman temple relocation issue demonstrates the MADANI Government’s success in handling religious sensitivities with wisdom, fairness and consensus.

Community Communications Department (JKOM) director-general Datuk Ismail Yusop said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s firm stance that the temple would not be demolished but must adhere to legal procedures exemplifies the Malay adage ‘seperti menarik rambut dalam tepung, rambut jangan putus, tepung jangan berselerak’ (when doing things, it has to be done carefully and fairly).

“Alhamdulillah, thanks to the Prime Minister’s wisdom in leading the MADANI Government, this issue was resolved peacefully without racial or religious conflict.

“The MADANI government successfully managed the matter by respecting the landowner’s (Jakel) rights, addressing the temple community’s needs through negotiation, achieving a win-win solution and ultimately preserving interfaith harmony,” he said in a Facebook post.

Following discussions between various parties, it was announced yesterday that a new 4,000-square-foot site, about 50 metres from the original location along Jalan Masjid India here, was identified for the temple’s relocation.

Ismail said the MADANI Government’s approach, through negotiation, respect for land ownership, planned relocation and maintaining harmony, was the result of discussions involving multiple stakeholders, including the temple management.

“This is a manifestation of inclusive and mature leadership, where decisions are made with careful consideration, not pressure or confrontation,” he said.

Meanwhile, PKR Religious Understanding and Strengthening Department director, Amidi Abdul Manan, urged all parties to respect Anwar’s decision and cease further disputes over the temple relocation.

He said racially driven arguments would not bring any benefits but could instead cause divisions in the country.

“The Prime Minister made two clear points: first, Malaysia is a nation of laws, meaning we must respect and adhere to established rules and regulations.

Second, this resolution should not set a precedent for future cases. Each temple-related issue must be considered individually, based on its unique circumstances,” he added.

Source:thesun.my

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https://thesun.my/malaysia-news/temple-relocation-resolution-shows-govt-s-success-in-handling-religious-sensitivities-jkom-dg-EP13858941

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South Asia

 

President calls for adherance to the Holy Quran

26 March 2025

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has urged all citizens to align their actions with and adhere to the teachings of the Holy Quran. Speaking at the Huffaz Graduation Ceremony on Wednesday evening at the Islamic Centre, he emphasised the Quran’s role as a practical “guide book” rather than a text recited solely at official events.

He stressed that restoring human dignity, which is currently eroding in society, requires integrating Quranic teachings into daily life. The President urged people to avoid actions forbidden in the Quran, including defamation, division, and spreading falsehoods.

Highlighting the importance of mutual respect for societal progress, he underscored Islam’s emphasis on faith and protecting fellow Muslims from harm—whether through actions or words. He asserted that society would improve if individuals treated others with the same respect and dignity they expect for themselves.

Before concluding, the President reiterated that development is hollow unless grounded in faith and aligned with Quranic principles.

Source:presidency.gov.mv

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https://presidency.gov.mv/Press/Article/33362

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Five Eid congregations scheduled at Baitul Mukarram National Mosque

26 March 2025

At least five Eid-ul-Fitr congregations will be held at Baitul Mukarram National Mosque this year.

According to a media statement issued by the Islamic Foundation on Wednesday, the prayers will take place at 7am, 8am, 9am, 10am, and 10:45am on Eid day.

The first congregation will be led by Baitul Mukarram Pesh Imam Hafez Mufti Maulana Muhibullahil Baki, with Muazzin Hafez Md Ataur Rahman serving as the Mukabbir.

The second congregation will be conducted by Senior Pesh Imam Hafez Mufti Maulana Mizanur Rahman, with Md Nasirullah acting as the Mukabbir at 8am.

The third prayer, scheduled for 9am, will be led by Maulana Mufti Waliur Rahman Khan, a Muhaddis at the Islamic Foundation, while Md Abdul Hadi will serve as the Mukabbir.

The fourth congregation, at 10am, will be led by Mushtaq Ahmed, editor of the Islamic Foundation’s Translation and Compilation Department, with Md Alauddin in the role of the Mukabbir.

The final congregation, at 10:45am, will be led by Mufti Md Abdullah of the Islamic Foundation, with Md Ruhul Amin as the Mukabbir.

Should any designated Imam be absent, Maulana Md Zakir Hossain, the Islamic Foundation’s deputy director, will serve as an alternate.

The exact date for Eid-ul-Fitr celebrations in Bangladesh will be determined based on the sighting of the Shawwal moon.

Source:bdnews24.com

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https://bdnews24.com/bangladesh/4300938b47c6

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Freedom fighters' reception goes awry after speaker allegedly distorts history

Mar 26, 2025

A reception of freedom fighters ended in chaos in Pabna following a BNP leader's speech allegedly distorting the history of the 1971 Liberation War.

Pabna district administration organised the reception on the occasion of the Independence Day at the Shilpakala Academy Auditorium in Pabna town.

Witnesses said the programme began at around 3:00pm with a floral reception of freedom fighters. Later, discussion programme began in the second phase.

Pabna district unit BNP Member Secretary Masud Khandaker was delivering speech.

At one point of his speech, Masud said Sheikh Mujibur Rahman fled from the country during the liberation war in 1971.

This speech sparked outrage among a group of freedom fighters present there, said freedom fighter Abdul Mannan Sardar, who was at the auditorium himself.

The freedom fighters started shouting in protest of the speech and this chaos continued for around three minutes, said Moniruzzaman, a local journalist.

Later, Masud got off the stage and the district administration concluded the programme much earlier than scheduled.

Talking to The Daily Star, Masud claimed that he did not make any such comment.

Rather, some pro-Awami League freedom fighters created the ruckus in a planned way, alleged Masud.

Contacted, Pabna's Deputy Commissioner (DC) Mohammad Mofizul Islam did not confirm whether Masud made any such comment.

But the DC confirmed that a chaos was created in the programme following "the speech of a speaker".

Source:thedailystar.net

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https://www.thedailystar.net/news/bangladesh/news/freedom-fighters-reception-goes-awry-after-speaker-allegedly-distorts-history-3858286

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Running with hares, hunting with hounds

Pinak Ranjan Chakravarty

27 Mar 2025

As Bangladesh is going through an existential struggle to establish a new political order, old ghosts are proving tough to banish altogether. One of the student leaders working in tandem with Muhammad Yunus, chief advisor to the interim government, recently alleged a conspiracy to bring back the Awami League (AL) in a new form, with a new leadership. A proposal for sharing seats with this new mutation of the AL has allegedly been conveyed to student leaders at a meeting held in the ‘cantonment’, euphemism for the army, at the behest of India. The same formula had been proposed to other political parties too.

These student leaders are members of a new political party—National Citizens Party—that has been launched to fight the next elections. One leader publicly said that he had rejected the army’s proposal despite a warning that any political crisis resulting out of the rejection would devolve on the student leaders. The student leaders are still demanding an outright ban on the AL and bringing their leaders back to Bangladesh to face justice.

Yunus and Jamaat-e-Islami (JeI) are on the same page regarding the AL, and both are wary of the army. They view the army chief, General Waker-uz-Zaman, as an impediment to their objectives. After Sheikh Hasina’s forced departure from Dhaka, the agitating students had sought to remove President Mohammed Shahabuddin Chuppu too, having called him a “slave” of Hasina. They failed in their attempt because the service chiefs firmly opposed the move, since the president is the commander-in-chief of the defence forces.

The student leaders and the JeI have vowed not to allow elections if the AL is not banned. This pie-in-the sky objective has the tacit backing of Yunus, but in public he has denied that the interim government is considering any such policy. It’s quite apparent that Yunus is running with hares and hunting with the hounds.

The JeI’s ire against Hasina stems from AL’s actions against its leaders for war crimes. The JeI had lost its registration as a political party and its youth wing, the Shibir, was banned by the Hasina government. Now, the pro-Pakistan JeI has been co-opted by Yunus and the student leaders. While publicly stating that the AL would not be banned, Yunus is playing the ‘good cop’ so that his image as a statesman is preserved.

Meanwhile, the student leaders seem to have decided to lower the level of confrontation with the army. The support of the American ‘deep state’ that they had enjoyed under former US President Joe Biden, has melted away under the current incumbent Donald Trump, who seems disinterested in Bangladesh.

Having lost the support of his patrons in the US Democratic Party, Yunus has had to walk back from the initial anti-India fervour he had encouraged. Such anti-India sentiment had led to a warm embrace of Pakistan. Yunus and his foreign adviser have now publicly stated that they seek good ties with India.

The recent India visit of Tulsi Gabbard, the US director of national intelligence, has put additional pressure on the Yunus regime. Tulsi’s comments on the persecution of Hindus in Bangladesh has blown a huge hole in Yunus’s rationalisation that the violence was political, and not communal. Tulsi also warned against political forces that want to establish an ‘Islamic caliphate’.

Predictably, the Yunus regime reacted adversely to Tulsi’s remarks. It had no choice. But the message was delivered. Soon after, the conservative American Heritage Foundation warned that Bangladesh risked becoming the next Afghanistan.

There is growing international concern that if the momentum of the students’ agitation continues, then Bangladesh may well see an Islamist-influenced government. The student leaders have been announcing their intent to establish a constituent assembly and rewrite the Constitution. If this fructifies, Yunus may be part of such a government as president. This denouement is not guaranteed, as mainstream political parties are bound to oppose such moves and could foment social unrest on a scale that may invite intervention by the army.

The Bangladeshi people are beginning to realise that Hasina’s government, with all its drawbacks, had provided both political and economic stability. Today, they see their economic status in jeopardy and the Yunus regime coddling Islamists. Extremists are rampaging across the country, thanks to the policy of releasing convicted leaders of terrorist organisations from prison. Consequently, international anxiety has grown at the possibility of Bangladesh becoming a safe haven for Islamic terror outfits like ISIS and Al Qaeda.

The discrimination being officially encouraged by the Yunus regime is also fanning the flames of social unrest. For instance, many teachers of Dhaka University have been barred from teaching because they were supporters or sympathisers of the AL. Such discrimination is being repeated across institutions. Students too have been suspended for the same ‘offence’.

India will continue to watch the developments very carefully, including Yunus’s ongoing visit to China, where he may be offered some crumbs to keep American and Indian influence at bay. There has been speculation about a meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Yunus at the Bangkok BIMSTEC summit in early April. Bangladesh has requested for the meeting, hoping that their recent conciliatory statements would have softened India. The fundamental problem is dealing with a regime that does not have the formal status to enter into any substantive bilateral agreement.

While scheduled meetings between the border security forces and the joint working group on sharing river waters have taken place, these are routine engagements held under long-term bilateral arrangements that are beneficial to both sides. So the meeting in Bangkok may remain a simple handshake on the sidelines of the summit.

What’s most crucial is for Bangladesh to move ahead with elections and not be held hostage to the irrational demands of the student leaders.

Source:newindianexpress.com

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https://www.newindianexpress.com/opinions/2025/Mar/26/running-with-hares-hunting-with-hounds

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Honorary Commission in Army marking Independence & National Day

 26 Mar 2025

DHAKA, March 26, 2025 (BSS) - Fourteen honorary lieutenants of the Bangladesh Army have been conferred with honorary commissions as honorary captains and 25 master warrant officers as honorary lieutenants marking the Independence and National Day.

 The 14 honorary lieutenants of the Bangladesh Army who have been promoted from honorary lieutenants to honorary captains are : BJO-13615 Hon. Lt. Md. Abdul Kafi Sarkar, SPP, Artillery; BJO-13581 Hon. Lt. Md. Shahinur Islam, Artillery; BJO-15675 Hon. Lt. Md. Mahabur Rahman, SGP, Engineers; BJO-55076 Hon. Lt. Md. Helal Uddin, Engineers; BJO-55043 Hon. Lt. Md. Ziaur Rahman, Engineers; BJO-17081 Hon. Lt. Md. Zahurul Islam, Signals; BJO-19101 Hon. Lt. Md. Amirul Islam,

ASC; BJO-23039 Hon. Lt. Md. Rafiqul Islam, Ordnance; BJO-75087 Hon. Lt. Md. Harun-or-Rashid, Ordnance; BJO-25623 Hon. Lt. Mohammad Main Uddin Bhuiyan, EME; BJO-25654 Hon. Lt. Mohammad Selim Bhuiyan, EME; BJO-26771 Hon. Lt. Md. Shah Alam, ACC; BJO-20976 Hon. Lt. Muhammad Matiur Rahman, AMC; BJO-21014 Hon. Lt. Md. Alal Uddin, AMC.

The twenty-five master warrant officers of the Army who have been commissioned with the honorary rank of Lieutenant are: BJO-50056 Master Warrant Officer Mohammad Firoz Alam, Armored; BJO-52032 Master Warrant Officer Mohammad Musarul Haque, Artillery; BJO-13770 Master Warrant Officer Mohammad Nurul Islam, Artillery; BJO-55124 Master Warrant Officer Mohammad Raish Uddin, Engineers; BJO-55200 Master Warrant Officer Mohammad Akhtaruzzaman,

Engineers; BJO-55229 Master Warrant Officer Md. Ruhul Amin, Engineers; BJO-17043 Master Warrant Officer Farazi Md. Kamruzzaman, Signals; BJO-58111 Master Warrant Officer Mohammad Mizanur Rahman, Signals; BJO-58058 Master Warrant Officer Md. Rezaul Karim, Signals; BJO-44761 Master Warrant Officer Md. Abdul Wahed Mia, E Bengal; BJO-61057 Master Warrant Officer M. Shafiqul Islam, E Bengal; BJO-61042 Master Warrant Officer Md. Hafizur Rahman, E Bengal; BJO-44748 Master Warrant Officer Nur Ahmed Bhuiyan, E Bengal; BJO-61261 Master Warrant Officer Muhammad Masud Uddin, E Bengal; BJO-61159 Master Warrant Officer Rafiqul Islam,

E Bengal; BJO-61153 Master Warrant Officer A.K. M. Kamruzzaman, E Bengal; BJO-45556 Master Warrant Officer Md. Rafiqul Islam, Bir; BJO-66251 Master Warrant Officer Md. Matiar Rahman, Bir; BJO-46299 Master Warrant Officer Mohammad Abul Basar, Bir; BJO-23008 Master Warrant Officer Md. Habibur Rahman, Ordnance; BJO-25639 Master Warrant Officer Md. Jahangir Alam, EME; BJO-86016 Master Warrant Officer Mohammad Abul Hasan, CMP; BJO-26766 Master Warrant Officer Md. Abu Naeem Bhuiyan, ACC; BJO-26926 Master Warrant Officer S. M. Abu Saeed, ACC; BJO-20990 Master Warrant Officer Md. Sadequl Islam, AMC.

This honorary commission of the Army will be effective from March 26, 2025.

Source:.bssnews.net

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https://www.bssnews.net/news/258394

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Polls just to put a party in power will be unacceptable

Mar 27, 2025

National Citizen Party Convener Nahid Islam yesterday said that elections aimed solely at installing a particular party in power, without necessary reforms and justice for the victims of the July uprising, will be "unacceptable".

Speaking after paying tribute to the martyrs of the Liberation War, Nahid said some were yet to grasp the significance of the 2024 mass uprising and the people's victory.

He said the events of 1971 and 2024 were interconnected, and the spirit of the Liberation War was revived through last year's movement. He accused certain groups of attempting to create a contradiction between the two with "dishonest intentions".

"We believe '71 and '24 are not separate. The promise of equality in '71 remained unfulfilled, allowing a fascist regime to rule Bangladesh for 15 years. In '24, we advocated for the same egalitarian society," Nahid said in response to BNP leader Mirza Abbas's remark that the July uprising should not be called "second independence" in a sovereign Bangladesh.

Highlighting the NCP's demand for justice, reform, and an election for a constituent assembly, the party chief said, "We believe that the nation can progress towards democracy only if we follow this path."

He criticised efforts to cling to outdated systems and warned against manipulating elections to remain in power.

"Through the '24 uprising, the '71 Liberation War, and the independence movement of '47, we have created a historic opportunity for a free, sovereign, and dignified state. We must not destroy these possibilities for the sake of power," he said.

The fight for independence, democracy, and justice had been a continuous struggle, he said, expressing hope that the people's struggle would soon bear fruit.

He also condemned attempts to rehabilitate fascist forces, vowing that the Citizen Party would resist such efforts and rebuild a democratic state where justice prevails, and no more bloodshed is needed.

NCP's Chief Coordinator Nasiruddin Patwary and other top leaders were also present at the event.

Source:thedailystar.net

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https://www.thedailystar.net/news/bangladesh/politics/news/polls-just-put-party-power-will-be-unacceptable-3858016

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Russian LGP exports to Afghanistan rise 52% following EU sanctions

By Fidel Rahmati

March 27, 2025

Following the European Union’s sanctions on Russian liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), exports of the gas to Afghanistan and Central Asia have surged. According to Reuters, over the past two months, Russian LPG exports to Afghanistan have increased by 52%, reaching 71,000 tons.

Reuters reports that the EU’s restrictions on Russian LPG, introduced last year, have led to a rise in exports to Afghanistan. The sanctions were proposed by Poland, one of the largest importers of Russian LPG, and were enforced in December.

LPG, which includes propane and butane, is primarily used as fuel for vehicles, heating, and in the production of other petrochemical products. The rise in LPG exports has been attributed to this growing demand for energy in the region.

Industrial sources have indicated that the supply of LPG through railways, from Russian factories including the KazRosGas joint project with Kazakhstan, increased by 80% in January and February compared to the same period last year, reaching 140 metric tons.

Exports of LPG to Afghanistan, the largest consumer of Russian LPG in the region, have notably increased by 52%, amounting to 71,000 metric tons. Traders expect further growth in LPG exports to Afghanistan, with annual demand estimated at 700,000 metric tons.

The rise in Russian LPG exports to Afghanistan highlights the shifting energy dynamics in the region due to EU sanctions. As the demand continues to grow, both Russian and Central Asian suppliers are likely to play a pivotal role in meeting Afghanistan’s energy needs.

This surge in LPG exports not only strengthens economic ties but also showcases the geopolitical shifts occurring as sanctions push Russia to explore alternative markets.

Source:khaama.com

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https://www.khaama.com/russian-lgp-exports-to-afghanistan-rise-52-following-eu-sanctions/

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New Transport Terminals in Kandahar to Boost Infrastructure, Economy

2025-03-26

KANDAHAR(BNA): Construction work on two passenger bus terminals in Kandahar has officially begun, with a total investment of 452 million afghanis.

During an inauguration ceremony, the Islamic Emirate spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid, Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation Mullah Hamidullah Akhundzada, Kandahar’s Deputy Governor Mullah Mohammad Sadiq Inqilabi, and other officials, including provincial heads and transport sector representatives, attended the event.

According to Minister Akhundzada, the terminals will be built in the Nasaji area of Daman district and the Bagh Pul area. The project is part of the ministry’s broader efforts to establish a modern, standardized transport system across the country.

Spanning 100 and 142 acres, respectively, the terminals will be constructed over two floors by two private firms, funded by the Islamic Emirate’s national budget. The construction is expected to take 14 months, generating 800 direct and 4,000 indirect job opportunities.

Designed to meet international standards, the terminals will feature parking facilities, waiting areas for men and women, transport offices, restaurants, security zones, fire response units, and mosques.

During the event, Mujahid reiterated the Islamic Emirate’s focus on economic development, emphasizing that the country’s transport system must be self-sufficient and capable of addressing public needs.

Source:bakhtarnews.af

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https://www.bakhtarnews.af/en/new-transport-terminals-in-kandahar-to-boost-infrastructure-economy/

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Massive Infrastructure Push: Laghman’s 88 Projects Underway

2025-03-26

LAGHMAN(BNA): Authorities in Laghman province have implemented 88 development projects worth more than one billion afghanis over the past year.

Laghman’s Deputy Governor, Mullah Akhtar Mohammad Mazmal, told Bakhtar News Agency that these projects were initiated with a total budget of 1.024 billion afghanis, funded by the Islamic Emirate and various organizations.

Of the 88 projects, 52 have been completed, while work continues on the remaining 36. The Islamic Emirate has directly financed 16 of the projects, with an investment of 184.4 million afghanis, while the rest have been carried out by aid organizations.

The projects span various sectors, including healthcare, education, reconstruction, urban development, and refugee assistance. Officials say they have provided thousands of jobs, both directly and indirectly, for the region’s youth.

Source:bakhtarnews.af

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https://www.bakhtarnews.af/en/massive-infrastructure-push-laghmans-88-projects-underway/

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