Yogi Adityanath, UP CM: On Ayodhya, Mathura, Kashi: 'Krishna Asked For 5 Villages, We Asked For 3...'

New Age Islam News Bureau

08 February 2024

 

Yogi Adityanath, UP CM

------

·         YogiAdityanath, UP CM: On Ayodhya, Mathura, Kashi: 'Krishna Asked For 5 Villages, We Asked For 3...':

·         Amnesty International: Indian Authorities Must Immediately Stop Unjust Targeted Demolition of Muslim Properties

·         If Necessary, Suicide Brigade from Afghanistan To Support Gaza: Iran’s Afghanistan Envoy

·         Lod, Tel Aviv, Mosque 'Call to Prayer' Volume Louder Since Start of "Iron Swords" War

·         Antisemitic, Anti-Muslim Hate in EU Has ‘Exploded’, Says A European Commission

----

India

·         Masajid Intezamia Cites AG's Court Presence to Allege UP-Hindu Parties Nexus On Gyanvapi

·         Foundation Chairman: “I Have No Knowledge About Any Such Brick from Makkah Or Medina”

·         Israel Receives Over 20 Made-In-Hyderabad Hermes 900 Drones

·         'Jai Shri Ram' coercion by security force official on elderly Kashmiri sparks row in Valley

----

North America

·         CAIR Welcomes Amnesty Reports Calling for End to Destruction of Muslim Properties in India

·         Blinken meets Palestinian president in Ramallah to push for Gaza cease-fire

·         Palestinian American’s stabbing in Texas meets hate crime definition, police say

·         Moving Argentinian Embassy to Jerusalem could harm relations with Muslim world, analysts tell Arab News

·         CAIR Sends Letter to State Dept. Demanding it Secure Release of American Samaher Esmail Who was Kidnapped by Israeli Forces

----

South Asia

·         No One Is Seeking the Collapse of Islamic Emirate: UN Special Coordinator

·         UN Announces Extension of Refugee Cards for Afghan Migrants in Pakistan Until End of March

·         Bangladesh University Has Failed to Take Effective Measures Against Sexual Harassment: UGC

·         Canada transfers over 300 Afghan citizens from Pakistan

·         In Doha, World Will Seek Ways for Increased Interaction: Kabir

·         Deputy Interior Minister Discusses Anti-Drug Efforts with EU Envoy for Afghanistan

·         Hanafi Calls for Collaboration with Turkish Charity on Housing Projects for Returnees

·         1,241 BNP-Jamaat men jailed in cases filed in 2012-15

·         Last polls most free, fair since 1975: PM

·         AL committed to continue development spree in next 5 yrs: PM

----

Mideast

·         Major Companies Worldwide Cut Military Ties with Israel

·         Islamic Jihad says ceasefire with Israel must be inclusive, permanent

·         Palestinian resistance continues to confront enemy forces in Gaza

·         Iran not to leave negotiation table, insistent on ‘nuclear rights’: Prez Raisi

·         Hezbollah, Israel exchange fire as tensions rise over Gaza

·         Israel PM orders troops to prepare for push into Rafah

·         Raisi says US presence ‘disrupts’ Middle East security

----

Europe

·         European Parliament holds session on combating Islamophobia, antisemitism

·         In UK, activists lay out children’s clothes in memory of Gaza kids killed by Israel

·         Putin says Russia is working to free hostages in Gaza conflict

·         School children rally outside UK parliament demanding Gaza ceasefire

----

Pakistan

·         Pakistan Responds to UN Concern Over Polls Security

·         Imran, Elahi cast votes via postal ballot

·         PTI urges people to vote for Imran battling for their rights

·         Pakistan's former PM Imran Khan votes by postal ballot from jail, wife Bushra Bibi misses out

----

Southeast Asia

·         Celebrate Diversity and Nation Will Prosper, Hadi Says in CNY Message

·         Ministry To Provide Sharia Funding of Rp10 Billion for MSMEs

·         Isra Miraj inspires social piety amid diversity: Religious Minister

·         Over 200 delegates from 23 countries to attend Post-War Gaza Rebuilding Programme

----

Arab World

·         Crown Prince Reaffirms Exerting More Efforts To Achieve Gulf Unity And Prosperity Of Its People

·         Defense minister reiterates Saudi commitment to achieving political solution in Yemen

·         Ansarullah condemns US attack on Iraqi resistance

·         Hajj Ministry to host first Umrah and Ziyarah Forum in Madinah

·         Riyadh to host ministerial confab to advance united Arab stance for post-war Gaza

-----

Africa

·         UNHCR Chief Visits Displaced Families in Sudan Amid Escalating Conflict

·         ECOWAS foreign ministers meet over Senegal, others

·         Nigeria needs unity to make progress – Kwankwasiyya leader

·         Adamawa Announces Over N4.6Million Hajj Fare For 2024, Nearly N2Million More Than 2023 Fare

·         20 Nasarawa ethnic groups reject Miyetti Allah’s security outfit

Compiled by New Age Islam News Bureau

URL:    https://newageislam.com/islamic-world-news/yogi-adityanath-ayodhya-mathura-kashi/d/131680

------

Yogi Adityanath, UP CM: On Ayodhya, Mathura, Kashi: 'Krishna Asked For 5 Villages, We Asked For 3...'

 

Yogi Adityanath, UP CM

------

New Delhi, Feb 8, 2024

Written By: Sushim Mukul

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Wednesday spoke in the state Assembly about the 'pranPratishtha' ceremony at Ayodhya and referred to the disputed sites of Kashi and Mathura.

Yogi Adityanath's reference to Mathura and Kashi comes within a month of the 'pranpratishtha' ceremony of the Balak Ram idol at the Ayodhya Ram Mandir.

"It is mine and my government's privilege to have facilitated the Ayodhya Deepotsav, which became a national celebration," he said.

"Ayodhya city was brought within the purview of prohibitions and curfew by the previous governments. For centuries, Ayodhya was cursed with ugly intentions. It faced a planned disdain. Such treatment of public sentiments was perhaps never seen anywhere else. Ayodhya faced injustice," Yogi said.

The Ram Janmabhoomi land in Ayodhya saw a protracted legal battle. It was handed over for the construction of a temple after a landmark Supreme Court judgment in 2019.

The Krishna Janmabhoomi site in Mathura and the Kashi Vishwanath temple complex in Varanasi are the two other disputed lands that Hindus have been claiming.

"When I speak about injustice, we recall the 5,000-year-old thing. Injustice was done even to the Pandavas at that time... That had happened with Ayodhya, Kashi and Mathura...," Yogi Adityanath said on Wednesday.

Quoting from Ramdhari Singh Dinkar's 'Rashmirathi', Yogi Aditynath said, "At that time, Krishna had gone to the Kauravas and said, then give us just five villages, keep all the land you have. We will happily eat there."

"Krishna had asked for five villages that time. Krishna had gone for an agreement. He asked for justice, even if it was half. But here, the society and its faith, for hundreds of years, was talking about three, just three," Yogi Adityanath said, referring to the spots at Ayodhya, Mathura and Varanasi.

"Those three, because they are special places, they are not normal. They are the places of the incarnation of the Lords," he said.

If Ayodhya is considered the birthplace of Lord Ram, Mathura is believed to be Lord Krishna's birthplace. The Gyanvapi site in Varanasi is considered to be one of the 12 Jyotirlingas.

Rashmirathi, the epic poem, penned by Ramdhari Singh 'Dinkar', narrates the Mahabharat through Karna's perspective. The poem delves into Karna's complex journey, exploring themes of fate, loyalty, and the moral dilemmas faced by him as he navigates the turbulent events of Mahabharata between the Kauravas and the Pandavas.

Yogi Adityanath quoted from 'Krishna ki Chetavni', the third chapter of Rashmirathi.

"Duryodhana wo bhi de nasaka, Ashish samaj ki le nasaka. Ulte, Hari ko bandhechala, jo thaasadhya, sadhnechala," the Chief Minister quoted from Dinkar's 'Rashmirathi'. These lines from the poem in translation mean, Duryodhana couldn't even give [those 5 villages] and get blessed. Instead, he sought to tame Hari, which was impossible.

Hari refers to Krishna, to whom the temple site at Mathura is dedicated.

Yogi Adityanath then went on to talk about the opposition to the demands.

"But there is political stubbornness and votebank politics, and that is what results in disputes," he said. "We asked for just three places, there was no dispute with other places."

Talking about the latest court order that allowed Hindus to pray at one of the sealed cellars, Vyasji ka Tehkhana, at the Gyanvapi site, Yogi Adityanath said, "After the people got to see the celebrations in Ayodhya, Nandi Baba said, why should I wait."

Nandi bull is the companion of Lord Shiva, to whom the Kashi Vishwanath temple at Gyanvapi is dedicated.

Source: indiatoday.in

Please click the following URL to read the text of the original story

https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/yogi-adityanath-ayodhya-mathura-krishna-ram-janmabhoomi-kashi-vishwanath-varanasi-rashmirathi-2498880-2024-02-07

------

Amnesty International: Indian Authorities Must Immediately Stop Unjust Targeted Demolition of Muslim Properties

 

Photo: Maktoob Media.com

------

February 7, 2024

 JCB brand machinery weaponized as a tool in hate campaign against minorities in India

India’s widespread unlawful demolitions of Muslims’ homes, businesses and places of worship through the use of JCB bulldozers and other machines must stop immediately, Amnesty International said in two companion reports released today.

The two reports — ‘If you speak up, your house will be demolished’: Bulldozer Injustice in India’ and ‘Unearthing Accountability: JCB’s Role and Responsibility in Bulldozer Injustice in India’ — document the punitive demolition of Muslim properties in at least five states with a widespread use of JCB-branded bulldozers or diggers as brand of choice in a hate campaign against the minority community. These demolitions are carried out with widespread impunity as was evident from the Mira Road demolitions after a Ram Temple Rally turned violent earlier last month in Mumbai, India.

Amnesty International calls on the Government of India and state governments to immediately halt the de facto policy of demolishing people’s homes as a form of extra-judicial punishment and ensure nobody is made homeless as a result of forced evictions. They must also offer adequate compensation to all those affected by the demolitions and ensure those responsible for these violations are held to account.

“The unlawful demolition of Muslim properties by the Indian authorities, peddled as ‘bulldozer justice’ by political leaders and media, is cruel and appalling. Such displacement and dispossession is deeply unjust, unlawful and discriminatory. They are destroying families— and must stop immediately,” said Agnès Callamard, Amnesty International’s Secretary General.

“The authorities have repeatedly undermined the rule of law, destroying homes, businesses or places of worship, through targeted campaigns of hate, harassment, violence and the weaponization of JCB bulldozers. These human rights abuses must be urgently addressed.”

JCB Bulldozers – ‘Brand of choice’ for demolition

Amnesty International’s Crisis Evidence Lab and Digital Verification Corps have verified that JCB’s machines, while not the only vehicles used, were the most widely deployed equipment in these demolitions. Their repeated use have given rise to the use of monikers for the company like ‘Jihadi Control Board’ by celebratory right-wing media and politicians.

In response to a letter from Amnesty International, a JCB spokesperson said that once products have been sold to customers, the company has no control over or responsibility for their products’ use or abuse.

However, according to the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights, JCB has a responsibility to respect human rights including by conducting due diligence to identify, prevent and mitigate adverse human rights impacts that are directly linked to its operations, products or services across its value chain. This requirement is especially important when a company’s products are used in regions where there is a heightened risk or evidence of their link to human rights abuses publicly available, such as in Assam, Delhi, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh.

“Under international standards, JCB is responsible for what third-party buyers do with its equipment. The company must stop looking away as JCB machines are used to target and punish the Muslim community, while people sloganeer anti-Muslim vitriol mounted from atop these bulldozers. JCB cannot continue to evade responsibility while its machines are repeatedly used to inflict human rights abuses,” said Agnès Callamard.

“The company must publicly condemn the use of its machinery to commit human rights violations, including punitive demolitions of Muslim properties in India, use its leverage to mitigate adverse impact and create robust human rights due diligence policies for the use of its equipment across the globe.”

Punishment’ for religious minorities

Between April and June 2022, Amnesty International researchers found that authorities in five states – Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP)-ruled states of Assam, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh and the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) governed state of Delhi – carried out demolitions as a ‘punishment’ following episodes of communal violence or protests against discrimination by those in authority against Muslims.

Amnesty International investigated 63 of 128 documented demolitions in detail by interviewing more than a hundred survivors, legal experts, journalists and community leaders. At least 33 instances of the repeated use of JCB’s equipment were verified. The investigation also established that at least 617 people, including men, women, children and older persons, were rendered homeless or deprived of their livelihoods. These individuals were subjected to forced evictions, intimidation and unlawful force by the police and collective and arbitrary punishment, which undermined their rights to non-discrimination, adequate housing, and a fair trial.

A total failure to follow due process

“The (bulldozers) directly attacked our house. We weren’t given any notice. Nothing,” said Hasina Bi, a 56-year-old widow who was at her home in Khargone, Madhya Pradesh when it was targeted and demolished in April 2022 by the municipal authorities.

In all five states, Amnesty International found that the demolitions — often carried out under the guise of remedying illegal construction and encroachment — were enacted without following any of the due process safeguards outlined in domestic law or international human rights law. State authorities enforced the demolitions and evictions without offering any prior consultation, adequate notice, or alternative resettlement opportunities. The destruction of buildings sometimes took place at night, with occupants given little or no time to leave their homes and shops, salvage their belongings, or appeal the demolition orders and seek legal redress.

Such demolitions constitute forced evictions, which are prohibited under international human rights law and the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (ICESCR) to which India is a state party.

‘They beat up my husband’

A 60-year-old woman whose house was demolished in Sendhwa, Madhya Pradesh, said: “When we asked what our fault was, they beat up my husband with lathis (batons). I was yelling that my disabled son is inside, but they did not stop… I could have lost them both.”

Amnesty International documented at least 39 cases of the police resorting to unlawful force while carrying out demolitions or preventing victims from collecting their belongings. At least 14 residents said they were beaten by the police for presenting their official documents and asking why their homes were being demolished. The police hurled abuses at residents, kicked open doors, and dragged people out of their homes before beating them with lathis [batons]. Both men and women were restrained and held in police vehicles.

The use of force by the police was neither necessary nor proportionate. This unlawful use of force constitutes a human rights violation and has also resulted in a range of other violations including the residents’ right to adequate housing as well as their rights to bodily integrity, freedom from cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment, and effective remedy, which are enshrined in both the Indian constitution and international human rights law.

Discrimination and complicity of politicians and media

“If they (say it is) justice, it should be done equally, whether the property belongs to a Hindu or Muslim,” said Zahid Ali Sayyed, who owned a now-demolished tent-house in Khargone, Madhya Pradesh.

Amnesty International found that Muslim-concentrated localities were chosen for demolitions, while Muslim-owned properties were selectively targeted in diverse areas. Nearby Hindu-owned properties, particularly in Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh, were left untouched.

The demolitions were often instigated at the highest levels of government, with many state officials directly or indirectly calling for the use of bulldozers against Muslims. Punitive demolitions have been aggressively pursued as a form of extrajudicial punishment over many years and in several states, including Uttar Pradesh whose chief minister, Yogi Adityanath, has been labelled by the media as “Bulldozer Baba” (grandfather).

The Indian media has also referred to the demolitions as “bulldozer justice”; describing the punitive destruction of homes and businesses as “(good) models of governance” by state authorities, while failing to consider whether the demolitions were carried out in accordance with the law or constitute unlawful discrimination against the

“In a year that India heads to the polls, the ongoing hate campaign against minorities – especially Muslims – and the widespread impunity enjoyed by those responsible for the demolition of their homes and properties is unacceptable. Amnesty International calls on the Indian authorities to ensure immediate protection of the rights of Muslims and those who are most marginalized before, during and after elections,” said Agnès Callamard.

Further Background

A year-and-a-half since the demolitions, in spite of the financial hardships created by the loss of their homes and businesses, victims continue to wait for justice with legal cases pending in courts.

The Indian government has also failed to provide access to justice and effective remedies for victims as accountability for human rights violations committed by the police, municipal corporations, development authorities and revenue departments in the five states remains elusive.

Instead, the state governments and federal government have continued to demolish other Muslim properties, as evidenced by the destruction of homes and shops in Jammu and Kashmir, Haryana, Gujarat, and Uttarakhand in 2023

Source: amnesty.ca

Please click the following URL to read the text of the original story

https://amnesty.ca/human-rights-news/india-authorities-must-immediately-stop-unjust-targeted-demolition-of-muslim-properties/

-------

If Necessary, Suicide Brigade from Afghanistan To Support Gaza: Iran’s Afghanistan Envoy

 

Iran’s representative for Afghanistan

------

Fidel Rahmati

February 7, 2024

Iran’s representative for Afghanistan suggests that if necessary, “more than one division of martyrdom forces” will go from Afghanistan to support Gaza.

Hassan Kazemi Qumi told the state-owned network Ofoq that Afghanistan is geographically distant from Gaza but is part of the “axis of resistance.”

The Islamic Republic of Iran refers to groups under its support and other factions fighting against the Western coalition and Israel in the region as the “axis of resistance.”

Mr. Qumi, speaking on the program “Toward Palestine” on the state-owned Ofoq network, responded to whether he talks about the “people of Afghanistan” or “Afghanistan under Taliban rule” by stating that Afghanistan has fought against “occupiers” for forty years, and “no one can claim that [this war] is specific to one ethnicity or group.”

Since the Taliban assumed control of Afghanistan, Iran has maintained positive relations with the group, offering support against foreign forces, according to reports. Despite the change in government, Iran continues to foster strong ties with the Taliban, indicating ongoing cooperation between the two entities.

As of now, the Taliban has not issued any official comments regarding the remarks made by the Iranian representative.

The Islamic Republic is a major supporter of Hamas and other Palestinian groups fighting against Israel, but the Taliban regime has only limited its support for Gaza by issuing statements against “Israeli crimes” and holding relatively small rallies in support of the Gaza people.

Source: khaama.com

Please click the following URL to read the text of the original story

https://www.khaama.com/if-necessary-suicide-brigade-from-afghanistan-to-support-gaza-irans-envoy/

-----

Lod, Tel Aviv, Mosque 'Call to Prayer' Volume Louder Since Start of "Iron Swords" War

Alon Hachmon/Maariv Online

 

Mosque in Abu Ghosh 370

(Photo credit: REUTERS/Ronen Zvulun)

----

FEBRUARY 8, 2024

Since the outbreak of the "Iron Swords" war, the police have become aware of a phenomenon occurring in most mosques throughout the country: the muezzin's announcements over the PA system have become louder, causing significant harm to some residents.

Two imams at the Great Mosque in Lod were detained for questioning on Sunday at the Lod police station on suspicion of creating excessive noise through the PA system in the mosque.

At the end of their investigation, the two were released with a warning, and the police continued to handle the investigation file, now classified as a criminal offense for creating a public disturbance.

The decision to detain the two was made by Central District Commander Superintendent Avi Biton after countless attempts to prevent noise hazards that have caused serious inconveniences to the residents of Lod.

Noise complaints were received around the country

About a month ago, Maariv published complaints from the residents of Sha'are Tikva about an unusual announcement in the mosque in the village bordering the town. Similar complaints were heard from residents in the north, and now it turns out that the residents of Lod are suffering from loud muezzins and petitioning calls to prayer in a way that constitutes a disturbance.

After contacting the imams and clerics in Lod, the police attempted, in light of the numerous complaints, to resolve the issue through dialogue, which proved unsuccessful. The police then had to confirm that the PA systems were indeed exceeding the permitted noise levels.

To examine the intensity of the noise, officers from the "Green Police," the main enforcement and deterrence arm of the Environmental Protection Ministry, were called, and using devices to measure noise intensity, determined after several tests that it exceeded what is allowed by law and was defined as excessive and unreasonable.

Following inspections, fines were issued for the mosque, and later, the district commander decided to detain the two and initiate criminal proceedings.

Source: jpost.com

Please click the following URL to read the text of the original story

https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-785747

----

Antisemitic, Anti-Muslim Hate in EU Has ‘Exploded’, Says A European Commission

 

Photo: aa.com

------

08 Feb 2024

STRASBOURG, Feb 8 — Antisemitic and anti-Muslim hate crime has “exploded” in the EU since the October 7 Hamas attack and Israeli retaliation, a European Commission vice president said on Wednesday.

“Many Jews and Muslims living in Europe are fearing for their own safety,” with firebombs being thrown at synagogues, Jewish shops destroyed and swastikas and anti-Muslim “slurs” painted on mosques and homes, Margaritis Schinas told the European Parliament in Strasbourg, France.

Online, anti-Jewish and anti-Muslim messages have “exploded”, he said, including slogans calling for Israel’s destruction and Jews to be killed, and for Muslim migrants “to be killed or expelled, and Muslim women raped”.

“This is simply unacceptable,” Schinas said, calling for EU member countries to get behind national and European efforts to stamp out anti-Semitism and racism.

He also underscored the role of a new EU law cracking down on illegal online content, the Digital Services Act, and increased funding for fact-checkers to help battle anti-Semitism in social media posts.

Schinas did not provide any figures for anti-Semitic and anti-Muslim hate crimes across the European Union.

Last month, Belgium’s anti-discrimination agency Unia said that, between October 7 and December 7, it registered 91 reported incidents related to the conflict between Hamas and Israel.

That compared with 57 for the whole of 2022, it said.

Pope Francis last weekend condemned a “terrible increase in attacks against Jews around the world” and rising anti-Semitism since October 7. — AFP

Source: malaymail.com

Please click the following URL to read the text of the original story

https://www.malaymail.com/news/world/2024/02/08/antisemitic-anti-muslim-hate-in-eu-has-exploded-says-commissioner/116954

----

 

India

 

Masajid Intezamia Cites AG's Court Presence To Allege UP-Hindu Parties Nexus On Gyanvapi

 Feb 8, 2024

Anjuman Intezamia Masajid (AIM), which manages Gyanvapi mosque, accused the Uttar Pradesh govt on Wednesday of having a nexus with the Hindu parties in Gyanvapi cases.

Appearing before Justice Rohit Ranjan Agarwal, AIM advocate SFA Naqvi questioned the presence of the state advocate general in the courtroom when govt was yet to be impleaded as a party to the matter.

According to him, any order could well be communicated to the state govt by the standing counsel present in court.

Earlier, during the course of hearing, the court suggested that since the state was a proper party to the suit, it should be impleaded as a party to the matter.

The court also asked the state govt if it had stopped the plaintiff (Hindu side) in 1993 from worshipping Hindu deities inside the southern cellar of the complex, known as Vyasji Ka Tehkhana. To this, advocate general Ajay Kumar Misra sought time to obtain instructions. However, due to time constraints, arguments could not be concluded and Justice Agarwal posted the matter for further hearing on Feb 12.

Source: timesofindia.indiatimes.com

Please click the following URL to read the text of the original story

https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/allahabad/aim-cites-ags-court-presence-to-allegeup-hindu-parties-nexus-on-gyanvapi/articleshowprint/107503761.cms

----

 

Foundation Chairman: “I Have No Knowledge About Any Such Brick FromMakkah Or Medina”

8th February 2024

Lucknow: The Indo-Islamic Cultural Foundation, set up for construction of a mosque at Dhannipur village in Ayodhya, has distanced itself from claims by a member of the same foundation that a “sacred” brick has been brought from Makkah and Medina in Saudi Arabia to lay the foundation of the new mosque.

Foundation Chairman Zufar Farooqui, who also heads the Uttar Pradesh Sunni Central Waqf Board, said, “I have no knowledge about any such brick from Makkah or Medina.”

The Indo-Islamic Cultural Foundation is the trust formed by the Uttar Pradesh Sunni Central Waqf Board to look after the Dhannipur project in Ayodhya.

Farooqui’s reaction came when asked to respond to claims by Haji Arafat Shaikh, Chairman of the Masjid Muhammad Bin Abdullah Development Committee, that the first brick to be laid for the foundation of the new mosque at Dhannipur village in Ayodhya district has been brought to Mumbai after consecration in Makkah and Medina.

The proposed mosque will be called “Mohammed Bin Abdullah Masjid”, the All India Rabta-e-Masjid, an organisation of mosques across the country, had said after a meeting of clerics in Mumbai in October 2023.

Shaikh, who is also a member of the Indo-Islamic Cultural Foundation, has said that the brick, baked in a Mumbai kiln, was consecrated in Makkah and Medina before being brought back to Mumbai by five devouts.

“As the Chairman of Indo-Islamic Cultural Foundation, I will ask Shaikh to clear the air about this matter,” Farooqui further said.

The black soil brick, adorned with inscriptions of the mosque’s name and Quranic passages, is set to be transported to Dhannipur village near Ayodhya after the beginning of Ramzan on March 12, Shaikh has said.

Shaikh also claimed that “peers” or holy men, would lead a grand procession, carrying the sacred brick from Kurla to Mulund, the last suburb of Mumbai on the eastern flank. The brick will then be taken to Lucknow and finally to Dhannipur.

“There will be a break in the journey every 300 km for prayers,” Shaikh claimed.

He said that it was still to be finalised if the brick was to be carried by foot or in a vehicle.

Indo-Islamic Cultural Foundation Spokesperson Athar Hussain said, “I have no knowledge about such bricks brought to India from anywhere. Haji Arafat Shaikh has been made Chairman of the Masjid Muhammad Bin Abdullah Development Committee and a member of the Indo-Islamic Cultural Foundation for raising funds. He is expected to work for that only.”

The Supreme Court on November 9, 2019, had mandated the construction of a mosque in Ayodhya and allotment of five-acre land for it at an alternative site.

The land for the mosque complex was given to Uttar Pradesh Sunni Central Waqf Board by the state government in consonance with the Supreme Court order in the Ayodhya title case.

Source: siasat.com

Please click the following URL to read the text of the original story

https://www.siasat.com/ayodhya-mosque-foundation-distances-itself-from-sacred-brick-2973670/

----

 

Israel receives over 20 made-in-Hyderabad Hermes 900 drones

7th February 2024

Hyderabad: India’s first private drone manufacturing facility, located in Hyderabad, has supplied more than 20 Hermes 900 medium-altitude, long-endurance (MALE) UAVs to Israel, as reported by international Defense business media outlet Shephard Media.

The UAV is currently in use in the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict. The UAVs were delivered complete with carbon composite aerostructures manufactured at the 50,000-square-foot Adani facility in Hyderabad, according to reports.

Equipped with high-performance sensors, the Hermes 900 can detect ground or maritime targets across a wide spectral range and is capable of ground target attacks.

Hyderabad-based Adani-Elbit Advanced Systems India Ltd, a joint venture between India’s Adani Defence and Aerospace and Israel’s Elbit Systems, became the first entity to manufacture the UAVs outside of Israel. India had procured the Israeli drone, Hermes 900, to bolster its surveillance capabilities along the northern borders.

On December 14, 2018, Adani Elbit Unmanned Aerial Vehicles Complex (UAV) was inaugurated in Hyderabad by the Home Minister of Telangana, Mohammad Mahmood Ali, in the presence of Shri Jayesh Ranjan, Principal Secretary – IT & Industries, Telangana, Director Adani Enterprise Limited Pranav Adani, CEO Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Karan Adani, and BezhalelMachlis, President and Chief Executive Officer of Elbit Systems.

Elbit Systems Ltd. is an Israel-based international military technology company and defense contractor.

Source: siasat.com

Please click the following URL to read the text of the original story

https://www.siasat.com/israel-receives-over-20-made-in-hyderabad-hermes-900-drones-2973609/

----

 

'Jai Shri Ram' coercion by security force official on elderly Kashmiri sparks row in Valley

08.02.24

Muzaffar Raina

A video showing a man in uniform asking an elderly Kashmiri to chant “Jai Shri Ram” has kicked up a row in Kashmir.

The video’s authenticity could not be independently confirmed by The Telegraph.

“Shocking! Man in uniform holds the arm of an Elderly Kashmiri Muslim man firmly, asks him to utter Religious (Hindu) slogan ‘Jai Shri Ram’. Wow! This is NAYA KASHMIR. Hoshiyaar, Khabardaar, be alert, smart...,” National Conference spokesperson Sarah Hayat Khan posted on X after uploading the video.

The 10-second clip shows a masked security force official wearing a bulletproof vest and with a security vehicle in the backdrop asking an elderly Kashmiri to chant the Hindu religious slogan.

“Now say loudly Jai Shri Ram,” the man in uniform tells the elderly man, raising his fist in the air. The elderly man repeats the slogan. The old man offered no resistance, although he appeared confused. There is a kangri (fire pot) lying on the ladder of the security vehicle, apparently belonging to the old man.

It appears the act of filming was deliberate, as the old man repeatedly looked into the camera. It is not clear who shot the video.

Several social media users tagged the post to Jammu and Kashmir police for answers, but they did not respond. It is not clear whether the man in uniform is from the army, paramilitary or police force.

Last year, soldiers of 50 Rashtriya Rifles, led by an army major, allegedly stormed two mosques in south Kashmir’s Pulwama district and forced worshippers to chant “Jai Shri Ram” — which triggered a political storm in the Valley.

The army reportedly took action against the erring officer, although it did not publicly speak about the incident.

Internet suspended

Internet services were suspended in Jammu’s Poonch and Rajouri districts on Wednesday and some people were detained in Jammu and Kashmir following tension over a bill passed by the Lok Sabha on Tuesday evening that included the affluent Pahari castes in the Scheduled Tribe category.

The Opposition National Conference said former chief minister Omar Abdullah’s planned visit to Rajouri’s Sunderbani for a party programme was also “thwarted on the ruse of the ST Pahadi reservation bill”.

Source: telegraphindia.com

Please click the following URL to read the text of the original story

https://www.telegraphindia.com/india/jai-shri-ram-coercion-by-security-force-official-on-elderly-kashmiri-sparks-row-in-valley/cid/1999024

----

 

North America

 

CAIR Welcomes Amnesty Reports Calling for End to Destruction of Muslim Properties in India

Ismail Allison

February 7, 2024

The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today welcomed two reports by Amnesty International detailing the destruction of Muslim properties in India and demanding an end to them.

Amnesty International has called on Indian authorities to immediately stop the “unlawful” bulldozing of Muslim properties, releasing two new reports describing the targeting of Muslim homes, businesses and places of worship across several Indian states. Amnesty International also called on the machinery producer JCB to condemn the use of its bulldozers to destroy Muslim properties and displace Muslims from their homes.

Why is Amnesty urging India to halt bulldozing of Muslim properties?

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

“India’s Hindutva government is enabling the destruction of Muslim properties and the displacement of Muslims from their homes. The United States and the nations of the world should take action to hold this government to account. We urge the State Department to declare India a country of particular concern due to the ongoing persecution of Muslims, Christians and other minority religious groups. We thank Amnesty International for shedding light on these abuses of the rights of Muslims in India.”

He noted that in December, CAIR reiterated its longstanding appeal to the Biden administration, echoing the recent statement by the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF), urging the immediate designation of India as a “Country of Particular Concern” (CPC). 

Source: cair.com

Please click the following URL to read the text of the original story

https://www.cair.com/press_releases/cair-welcomes-amnesty-reports-calling-for-end-to-destruction-of-muslim-properties-in-india/

-----

 

Blinken meets Palestinian president in Ramallah to push for Gaza cease-fire

Mohammad Sıo

07.02.2024

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken held talks with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas in the West Bank city of Ramallah on Wednesday amid efforts to push for a cease-fire in the Gaza Strip.

“Blinken held a meeting with Abbas upon his arrival in Ramallah,” a source in the latter's office told Anadolu.

Further details of the meeting were not immediately available.

Earlier on Wednesday Blinken met Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and President Isaac Herzog.

The US, Qatar and Egypt, the key mediators between Hamas and Israel, confirmed they have received a response from the Palestinian group to a framework agreement for a cease-fire and hostage-prisoner swap with Israel.

A Palestinian source told Anadolu that Hamas has proposed a 3-stage plan for a Gaza cease-fire that includes a 135-day pause in fighting in return for hostage releases.

The Israeli war in the Palestinian enclave began after an Oct. 7 attack by Hamas, in which some 1,200 people are believed to have been killed, and around 240 taken as hostages.

Over 100 hostages were released during a weeklong pause in fighting in November in exchange for 240 Palestinian prisoners.

Israel’s attacks have killed more than 27,000 Palestinians, and about 85% of Gaza’s population of 2.3 million has been displaced, according to the UN. 

Source: aa.com.tr

Please click the following URL to read the text of the original story

https://www.aa.com.tr/en/world/blinken-meets-palestinian-president-in-ramallah-to-push-for-gaza-cease-fire/3130744

----

 

Palestinian American’s stabbing in Texas meets hate crime definition, police say

February 08, 2024

WASHINGTON: The stabbing of a Palestinian-American man in Austin, Texas, over the weekend meets the definition of a hate crime and local prosecutors will determine charges, Austin police said on Wednesday.

The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) advocacy group said a group of Muslim Americans were driving home from a pro-Palestinian protest on Sunday when the suspect attacked their vehicle at a stop sign.

The suspect, identified by police as Bert James Baker, shouted obscenities and stabbed a 23-year-old Palestinian-American in the chest, CAIR said.

Baker was arrested on Sunday, booked into county jail and charged with aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, police said. He could not be reached for comment.

A police statement on Wednesday said the police Hate Crimes Review Committee had determined the incident met the definition of a hate crime. It said local prosecutors will determine any further charges.

The victim’s father, Nizar Doar, identified the victim as Zacharia Doar. The father told a CAIR-hosted press conference on Tuesday his son was trying to subdue Baker and suffered a broken rib. The son had since undergone surgery.

Human rights advocates cite a rise in Islamophobia, anti-Palestinian bias and antisemitism in the US that began with a Palestinian Hamas attack in Israel on Oct. 7 in which 1,200 people were killed, according to Israeli tallies.

Israel has responded with a ground and air attack on Hamas-ruled Gaza, killing more than 27,000 people, according to the local Palestinian health ministry.

Previous US incidents include a November shooting of three students of Palestinian descent in Vermont and the fatal October stabbing of a 6-year-old Palestinian American in Illinois.

Source: arabnews.com

Please click the following URL to read the text of the original story

https://www.arabnews.com/node/2456136/world

-----

 

Moving Argentinian Embassy to Jerusalem could harm relations with Muslim world, analysts tell Arab News

February 07, 2024

SAO PAULO: President Javier Milei’s plan to move the Argentinian Embassy in Israel from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem, which he announced on Tuesday during his visit to the Middle Eastern country, could have negative consequences for relations with the Muslim world, analysts have told Arab News.

If the plan is carried out, Argentina would become just the sixth country to have its embassy in Israel in Jerusalem, and the third Latin American nation to do so.

Currently, only the US, Kosovo, Honduras, Guatemala and Papua New Guinea have embassies in Jerusalem.

Paraguay moved its embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem in 2018 but reversed its decision a few months later.

Milei’s announcement has been condemned by Palestinian leaders in Argentina. “It would be a disruption of Argentina’s political tradition regarding the Israel-Palestine conflict, given that it has always been a country that respects international rules and has supported the creation of an independent Palestinian state whose capital would be in East Jerusalem,” Rafael Araya Masry, president of the Palestinian Confederation of Latin America and the Caribbean, told Arab News.

“Argentina will violate international law if such a measure is taken, endorsing practices explicitly at odds with the letter and spirit of the resolutions of the UN and its Security Council, which prohibit and condemn the change of status of Jerusalem and reject any geographic and demographic modification in the city.”

Fernando Isas, an Argentinian-born son of Palestinian refugees and a long-time activist for the Palestinian cause, told Arab News that Milei’s decision is “worrisome not only for the whole diaspora but also for all Argentinians, given that it represents a geopolitical shift and alignment with the Zionist state and the US.”

The decision “endangers Argentina’s commitment to international law, and to the inalienable rights of all peoples to independence and self-determination,” Isas added.

Mariela Cuadro, an expert in the Middle East and the Global South, told Arab News that Milei’s plan “is related to the larger trend of the international right wing that we’ve been witnessing over the past few years.”

It is a break from the human rights policies historically advocated by Argentina, at a time when Israel is being taken to the International Court of Justice, said Cuadro, who is a researcher at the National Scientific and Technical Research Council at the National University of San Martin, on the outskirts of Buenos Aires.

Milei’s decision may also provoke reactions from some of Argentina’s business partners in the Arab and Muslim worlds.

Years ago in Brazil, when then-President Jair Bolsonaro also announced his plan to move the Brazilian Embassy to Jerusalem, important economic players in the country put pressure on him, fearing consequences for trade. The plan was not carried out.

Walid Alkaddour, secretary-general of the Argentine-Arab Chamber of Commerce, told Arab News that he does not believe Milei’s plan will materialize.

“Those declarations are the product of ignorance,” Alkaddour said. “If that project becomes reality, it will be one of the major geopolitical mistakes in Argentina’s history. But I don’t believe it will happen. It’s all for the media effect.”

Riyad Al-Halabi, charge d’affaires of the Palestinian Embassy in Buenos Aires, told Arab News that he views Milei’s declaration “with great concern” and “disappointment” as “it contradicts international law and will have a negative impact.”

Al-Halabi added: “Jerusalem’s status must be defined through negotiations between both parties for the establishment of two states.”

At a time when Palestinians are suffering “a brutal process of ethnic cleansing and genocide, and Israel is facing a case at the ICJ, we hope that Argentina will continue to be on the side of respect for human rights,” he said.

Source: arabnews.com

Please click the following URL to read the text of the original story

https://www.arabnews.com/node/2455941/world

------

 

CAIR Sends Letter to State Dept. Demanding it Secure Release of American Samaher Esmail Who was Kidnapped by Israeli Forces

Ismail Allison

February 7, 2024

The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), the largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization in the nation, said it sent a letter to the State Department and the American embassy in Jerusalem requesting that they demand the immediate release of American citizen and New Orleans grandmother Samaher Esmail, who was kidnapped by Israeli forces on Monday.

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

“We call on the State Department to urgently demand the release of Samaher Esmail, a mother, grandmother, and American citizen, who has been subjected to violent abuse at the hands of the far-right Israeli government. The reported treatment she endured is deeply disturbing and requires immediate attention and action. As an American citizen, Samaher Esmail deserves the full protection and support of her government, and we demand that the State Department take swift and decisive measures to secure her release and ensure her safety and well-being.”

Source: cair.com

Please click the following URL to read the text of the original story

https://www.cair.com/press_releases/cair-sends-letter-to-state-dept-demanding-it-secure-release-of-american-samaher-esmail-who-was-kidnapped-by-israeli-forces/

----

 

South Asia

 

No one is seeking the Collapse of Islamic Emirate: UN Special Coordinator

2024-02-07

KABUL (BNA): In a meeting with the United Nations’ Special Coordinator for Afghanistan, Mawlavi Abdul Kabir, the Deputy Prime Minister for Political Affairs, stated that the Islamic Emirate does not support the UN’s selection of another representative for Afghanistan.

According to the Deputy Prime Minister’s Office, during this meeting, the UN Special Coordinator for Afghanistan, Feridun Sinirlioğlu, expressed his gratitude for the Islamic Emirate’s cooperation in his mission in Afghanistan. He stated that efforts are underway to broaden Afghanistan’s global relations.

Sinirlioğlu underscored the significance of the regional conference held by the Islamic Emirate in Kabul and commended the initiative. He emphasized that such meetings are vital for Afghanistan and that the international community is keen to establish relations and collaborate with the Islamic Emirate.

He acknowledged Afghanistan’s economic and social advancements and noted that despite the overall security in Afghanistan, there is a need to concentrate on economic fortification and stability.

In relation to the forthcoming Doha conference, Sinirlioğlu stated that positive decisions about Afghanistan will be made, leading to positive changes in Afghanistan’s global relations post-conference. He stressed that no one is attempting to overthrow the Islamic Emirate; instead, they want it to connect with the global community.

Sinirlioğlu also referred to international laws and conventions that the Islamic Emirate should adhere to.

He highlighted Afghanistan’s importance to the region and the world, stating that Afghanistan’s security equates to regional security and stability.

The UN Special Coordinator for Afghanistan also mentioned that the World Bank will soon hold a session regarding Afghanistan to discuss banking growth, the removal of sanctions, and the resumption of the World Bank’s unfinished projects in Afghanistan.

Mawlavi Abdul Kabir expressed his gratitude to the UN Special Coordinator for Afghanistan.

He agreed with most of Sinirlioğlu’s report but disagreed with the part about selecting another envoy for Afghanistan, stating that with the UN political representation (UNAMA) already in Afghanistan, they do not see the need for a new representative.

He added that the Islamic Emirate also seeks to maintain good relations with the world and has initiated discussions on the participation of Islamic Emirate representatives in the upcoming Doha conference.

He welcomed the resumption of the World Bank’s unfinished projects in Afghanistan and expressed hope that effective steps would be taken in the upcoming Doha conference towards Afghanistan’s reconstruction, including humanitarian aid and the removal of banking system sanctions.

Source: bakhtarnews.af

Please click the following URL to read the text of the original story

https://www.bakhtarnews.af/en/no-one-is-seeking-the-collapse-of-islamic-emirate-un-special-coordinator/

------

 

UN announces extension of refugee cards for Afghan migrants in Pakistan until end of March

Fidel Rahmati

February 8, 2024

UN Announces Extension of Refugee Cards for Registered Afghan Migrants in Pakistan Until the End of March.

The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees has announced that the Pakistani government has extended the refugee cards for registered Afghan immigrants until the 31st of March 2024.

Confirming this decision, the agency released a picture of the Pakistani government’s decree on its official page on Wednesday, February 7th.

Additionally, Khyber News Pakistan has reported that the interim government of Pakistan, based on the proposal of the Ministry of Border Affairs, has extended the stay of 1.3 million Afghan immigrants for another two months.

Human rights organizations and refugee agencies have consistently expressed concerns about the situation of migrants expelled from Pakistan and Iran.

It is noteworthy that the World Food Program has recently declared that approximately half a million expelled Afghan migrants from Pakistan are in urgent need of assistance and are economically vulnerable.

According to reports, since the start of the expulsion of Afghan migrants from Pakistan, more than 500,000 individuals have been forcibly returned to Afghanistan.

Amidst security turmoil and economic crisis in the country, which has led to the expulsion of Afghan refugees from Pakistan, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees has announced an extension of refugee cards for registered Afghan immigrants for another two months.

The decision to extend refugee cards for Afghan immigrants is a response to the security turmoil and economic crisis in Pakistan, which has resulted in the expulsion of Afghan refugees from the country.

The political landscape in Pakistan is closely intertwined with the situation of Afghan refugees, as political debates often include discussions on refugee policies and their impact on the country’s security and economy.

Security measures during elections are crucial not only for the safety of Pakistani citizens but also for Afghan refugees residing in the country, as political stability impacts their lives and prospects.

Source: khaama.com

Please click the following URL to read the text of the original story

https://www.khaama.com/un-announces-extension-of-refugee-cards-for-afghan-migrants-in-pakistan-till-march-end/

----

 

Bangladesh UniversityHas Failed to Take Effective Measures Against Sexual Harassment: UGC

Feb 7, 2024

University Grants Commission has formed a probe body to review actions taken by Jahangirnagar University authorities over the rape of a woman inside the campus.

The three-member committee will also look into why such a heinous crime took place, according to a press release issued by UGC today.

UGC Chairman (Additional Charge) Prof Muhammad Alamgir informed about the committee formation during a workshop on grievance redressal mechanism and GRS software today, states the release signed by Shamsul Arefin, director of Department of Public Relations and Right to Information of UGC.

The press release did not include the names of the committee members.

The members are scheduled to visit JU campus tomorrow.

UGC will soon set up a high-powered cell to thoroughly review and redress complaints of irregularities including sexual harassment in universities, the chairman said.

This cell, consisting of skilled officials, will monitor incidents of irregularities and harassment in any university and recommend action after investigation, the chairman added.

JU authorities have failed to take visible and effective measures against sexual harassment and other misdeeds, he said about the incident of rape.

Prevention of such incidents in the university have not been not possible due to the long legal proceedings and the indulging of criminals, the chairman added.

"It is necessary to investigate why such incidents are happening in this university and take immediate action," he added.

It is also necessary to look into how JU is admitting students without ensuring their residential facilities and how non-students are staying in the campus day after day, the chairman also opined.

Six people, including at least four members of JU Chhatra League of Jahangirnagar University, raped or abetted in the rape of a woman on campus on Saturday night after confining her husband in Mir Mosharraf Hossain Hall.

Four of them were arrested on Sunday.

The incident sparked an instant protest on the campus, with hundreds of students gathering in front of the Mir Mosharraf Hossain Hall. They chanted slogans and demanded expulsion of the rapists from the campus and justice for the victim.

Source: thedailystar.net

Please click the following URL to read the text of the original story

https://www.thedailystar.net/news/bangladesh/crime-justice/news/ju-has-failed-take-effective-measures-against-sexual-harassment-ugc-3538581

------

 

Canada transfers over 300 Afghan citizens from Pakistan

Fidel Rahmati

February 8, 2024

The Canadian Ministry of Immigration has recently announced the transfer of over 300 Afghan refugees from Pakistan to Canada via a chartered flight, continuing the trend of relocating Afghan citizens.

This announcement was made by the ministry on Wednesday, February 6th through its social media platform X, indicating that 304 Afghan refugees were successfully relocated to Canada on a chartered flight.

Additionally, the Canadian Immigration Ministry has stated that the newly transferred migrants have been relocated to the city of Toronto.

Furthermore, the ministry has clarified that these migrants are expected to be dispersed across 27 different locations throughout Canada.

In the meantime, the Canadian Immigration Ministry has disclosed that Canada has already resettled 47,110 Afghan citizens in the country.

Meanwhile, hundreds of Afghan citizens who fled to neighbouring countries following the resurgence of the Taliban regime are still awaiting resettlement in countries such as Canada, where their immigration cases are being processed.

It is noteworthy that following the increase in the expulsion of Afghan migrants from Pakistan, Canada has intensified the process of transferring migrants to that country.

The relocation efforts signify Canada’s ongoing commitment to providing refuge and support to Afghan nationals amidst the evolving situation in their home country.

As Canada continues to facilitate the relocation process, it underscores the importance of international cooperation and support for displaced populations seeking safety and stability.

Source: khaama.com

Please click the following URL to read the text of the original story

https://www.khaama.com/canada-transfers-over-300-afghan-citizens-from-pakistan/

-----

 

In Doha, World Will Seek Ways for Increased Interaction: Kabir

February 7, 2024

The deputy Prime Minister for Political Affairs, Mawlawi Abdul Kabir, on Wednesday at a gathering (Strengthening National unity and Islamic Government) in Kabul said that the international community wants to explore the means for interaction with the Islamic Emirate, at the Doha meeting.

Kabir also said that the Islamic Emirate wants a balanced policy with all the countries of the world, including the US and Russia.

He added that currently 38 Afghan embassies are active in other countries.

Mawlawi Abdul Kabir said: “The world's effort is to provide a platform for interaction with Afghanistan in the Doha meeting, so that official relations between Afghanistan and the world are established, and Afghanistan will move towards success in the political and economic fields.”

The acting Minister of Defense, Mawlawi Mohammad Yaqoob Mujahid, also called the international community's pressure and sanctions on the Islamic Emirate ineffective and said that the international community will have to recognize the Islamic Emirate if there is unity among Afghans.

Without naming any country, Mujahid said that efforts have been made by other countries to create a gap in education between contemporary and religious sciences.

Mawlawi Mohammad Yaqoob Mujahid, said: “When we and you unite, the whole world cannot harm us and cannot defeat us, and we and you will be successful in every field; later they will be forced to recognize the government, the people and all this.”

Mohammad Khalid Hanafi, the acting Minister of Vice and Virtue, was also one of the speakers at this gathering. Referring to the hijab, Hanafi said that some institutions and individuals under the name of human rights and women's rights want to question the Islamic government.

Hanafi said: "The saboteurs under the name of women’s rights are looking for why the Afghan society and the Islamic nation should follow Hijab because their efforts of the past 20 years would be destroyed."

This gathering was held in Kabul with the participation of people's representatives from seven provinces and the participants called for good treatment with the people and addressing the citizens' demands.

Source: tolonews.com

Please click the following URL to read the text of the original story

https://tolonews.com/index.php/afghanistan-187319

-----

 

Deputy Interior Minister Discusses Anti-Drug Efforts with EU Envoy for Afghanistan

2024-02-08

KABUL (BNA): Abdul Haq Hamkar, the Deputy Interior Minister, met with Thomas Nicholson, the European Union Envoy for Afghanistan.

During the meeting, as per a statement from the Ministry of Interior, Hamkar discussed the accomplishments and activities of the ministry’s counternarcotic department.

He highlighted the decree issued by the Supreme Leader of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan (IEA) that prohibits all forms of drug cultivation and trafficking in Afghanistan, emphasizing the importance of adhering to this decree.

Hamkar also addressed the support, treatment, and education provided for drug addicts in the country. He underscored Afghanistan’s cooperation with the international community in combating drug trafficking and called for global support in Afghanistan’s anti-drug initiatives.

Significantly, a recent United Nations report has noted that Afghanistan is no longer the world’s largest producer of narcotics, and drug cultivation and trafficking have considerably decreased in the country.
Source: bakhtarnews.af

Please click the following URL to read the text of the original story

https://www.bakhtarnews.af/en/deputy-interior-minister-discusses-anti-drug-efforts-with-eu-envoy-for-afghanistan/

------

 

Hanafi Calls for Collaboration with Turkish Charity on Housing Projects for Returnees

2024-02-07

KABUL (BNA): Mawlavi Abdul Salam Hanafi, the Deputy Prime Minister for Administrative Affairs, has called for collaboration with a Turkish charity organization, IHH, to develop housing projects for Afghans returning from abroad who are in need of shelter.

According to a statement from the Deputy Prime Minister’s Office, Hanafi met with officials from IHH in Kabul. He expressed his appreciation for the organization’s efforts and requested their cooperation in creating job opportunities and rebuilding homes for returnees.

During the meeting, Mujahid Khalich, a representative of IHH, briefed Hanafi on the organization’s activities, functions, and plans. He highlighted their contributions to mosque reconstruction, agricultural development, well drilling, employment generation, and assistance to the families of martyrs, disabled individuals, and medical treatment in Afghanistan.

The organization expressed its commitment to expanding its activities in the country, aligning with Hanafi’s request for increased collaboration. This partnership aims to provide much-needed support to returning Afghans, particularly in the area of housing.
Source: bakhtarnews.af

Please click the following URL to read the text of the original story

https://www.bakhtarnews.af/en/hanafi-calls-for-collaboration-with-turkish-charity-on-housing-projects-for-returnees/

-----

 

1,241 BNP-Jamaat men jailed in cases filed in 2012-15

Feb 8, 2024

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina yesterday told parliament that 1,241 people were sentenced to jail in 1,967 cases filed in connection with BNP-Jamaat's subversive activities between 2012 and 2015.

The premier also said 188 people died and 4,973 others were injured at the hands of BNP-Jamaat terrorists who were waging a so-called democratic movement in the 2012-2015 period and from October 28 last year to this year's January 7 national election.

"A total of 8,105 cases were filed against those involved in the acts of sabotage. Trials of 1,967 cases have been completed," she said after Awami League MP Shajahan Khan wanted to know about the measures taken against BNP-Jamaat men involved in the subversive activities.

Investigations are going on in the cases filed between October 28, 2023, and January 7 this year, the PM said.

Responding to a question from Laxmipur-4 lawmaker Md Abdullah, the PM said over 600 vehicles were vandalised across the country after October 28, when a BNP rally in the capital ended in clashes between activists and police.

Besides, 184 buses, 48 trucks, 28 lorries, three CNG-run three-wheelers, four cars, 11 pickups, five trains, 15 motorcycles, three human hauliers, a ward councillor office, a auto rickshaw, a secondary school, 12 primary schools, four homes, a Buddhist temple, and a boat were set on fire, she said.

Drivers, helpers, policemen, BGB members, labourers, and freedom fighters were killed, injured and crippled during the blockade and hartal.

"Thirteen people died in those incidents. Nine of them were killed in the [attacks on] trains."

The country has efficient law enforcement agencies, a judicial system, and laws to identify and punish those involved in arson, vandalism, and subversive activities, the PM said.

She thanked the Election Commission, law enforcers, armed forces, public administration, and the people for conducting a free, fair and impartial election.

Bangladesh achieved success in all areas in the last 15 years because of the government's development plans, and constructive steps.

"The government is determined to continue this progress for the next five years."

No evil force can come in the way of democracy and development, she said.

As of January 28, 48 heads of state sent congratulatory messages to her, she added.

Representatives of 25 international organisations, government and non-government organisations congratulated Bangladesh for conducting a fair and participatory election.

Source: thedailystar.net

Please click the following URL to read the text of the original story

https://www.thedailystar.net/news/bangladesh/politics/news/1241-bnp-jamaat-men-jailed-cases-filed-2012-15-3538856

-----

 

Last polls most free, fair since 1975: PM

Feb 8, 2024#

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina yesterday said last month's national election that handed her the fourth consecutive term in office was the most free, fair, and impartial polls in the country since 1975.

She made the remark while exchanging views with local leaders and activists of Awami League and its associate bodies and local public representatives from Gopalganj's Tungipara at the Gono Bhaban.

Hasina said, "Many conspiracies were afoot to thwart the election as a party [BNP] founded by a military dictator wanted to prevent this democratic process.

"But the most important thing was that people spontaneously went to polling stations and cast their ballots," said the AL president.

She said the journey ahead of Bangladesh would not be so easy in the days to come. Many obstacles have to be overcome.

The PM said Bangladesh today has come a long way in socio-economic development. "The people of Bangladesh are financially solvent today."

Talking about commodity prices, Hasina said the people on a fixed income are facing some difficulties.

"If we all cultivate the fallow land, there will be no shortage of food. Rather, we can have surplus."

She said all fallow land will have to be brought under cultivation and the government would extend assistance to the people in this regard.

The premier urged the local government representatives to ensure that development projects are implemented properly. She asked them to gain public trust and confidence by their deeds.

BNP and like-minded parties boycotted the January 7 polls demanding elections under a non-party interim government.

Source: thedailystar.net

Please click the following URL to read the text of the original story

https://www.thedailystar.net/news/bangladesh/news/last-polls-most-free-fair-1975-pm-3538971

----

 

AL committed to continue development spree in next 5 yrs: PM

Feb 7, 2024

Prime Minister and Leader of the House Sheikh Hasina today told the parliament that her government is committed to continue journey towards development in the next five years.

"We have achieved success in every sector as the government has taken and implemented development plans and farsighted and constructive activities in the last 15 years. The Awami League government is determined to continue the journey towards development in the next five years," she said.

She said this while replying to a question of the ruling AL lawmaker from Sirajganj-6 constituency Chayan Islam on government's development plan during the current tenure in the question-answer session.

The PM thanked the people for giving her party another chance to run the state for the next five years.

"We want to make sustainable the development that took place during 20 years of Awami League government. The people gave the chance to the Awami League government by giving them mandate through vote," she said.

Sheikh Hasina said her government has taken a number of long-term development projects in the last 15 years from 2009 to 2024.

"Bangladesh has got the acknowledgement as a model country for development for taking and implementing the projects," she added.

The PM said the current government has been relentlessly working to ensure economic development of the entire population alongside implementing the sustainable development goals (SDGs) set by the United Nations (UN).

Referring to the Vision 2021, she said her government has implemented the first perspective plan 2010-2021 aimed at establishing Bangladesh as a middle income and information and technology-based country by 2021.

For this reason, she said, Bangladesh upgraded from lower income country to lower middle income country in July 1, 2015.

Bangladesh has achieved on an average 7.13 percent growth during the period of the 7th five-year plan, she said.

The present government has been working to ensure food security, improved water resources management and suitable development after facing the impact of the climate change, she added.

The AL government has formulated a 100-year mega plan, Bangladesh Delta Plan-2100, taking into consideration agriculture, fisheries, industries, forestation, public health and environment, she said.

"The Delta Plan-2100 will be considered as a milestone measure in the country's development programmes," she added.

The PM said implementation of the Delta Plan has already been started.

Sheikh Hasina also said the present government has been working to implement the Vision 2041 to materialise the dream of the Father of the Nation and for pursuing the vision, they have formulated the perspective plan 2021-2041.

The perspective plan has two major targets which are to make Bangladesh a developed country by 2041 with per capita income of over 12,500 US dollars and a Golden Bangladesh where the poverty will be as a matter of long past, she added.

"Bangladesh will be a developed and prosperous Bangladesh free from poverty by 2041," she said.

The Prime Minister said Bangladesh is currently implementing the 8th five-year plan and its main motto is "Development will take place with leaving behind none, but taking all," she said.

Source: thedailystar.net

Please click the following URL to read the text of the original story

https://www.thedailystar.net/news/bangladesh/news/al-committed-continue-development-spree-next-5-yrs-pm-3538646

-----

 

Mideast

 

Major companies worldwide cut military ties with Israel

Feb 7, 2024

TEHRAN, Feb. 07 (MNA) – Major companies across the globe have cut ties with the Israeli regime after the International Court of Justice’s (ICJ) ruling last month that said Israel’s mass killings of Palestinians in Gaza amount to genocide.

Japan’s Itochu, which ranks 96th on Fortune’s Global 500 list of the world’s largest companies, announced its aviation arm is ending its memorandum of understanding (MOU), or a formal agreement for two parties to collaborate, with Elbit, the Israeli regime largest military contractor.

“Taking into consideration the International Court of Justice’s order on January 26, and that the Japanese government supports the role of the Court, we have already suspended new activities related to the MOU, and plan to end the MOU by the end of February,” Itochu's Chief Financial Officer, Tsuyoshi Hachimura, announced at an earnings press conference, Reuters reported.

In a similar move, Spain's Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares declared on Tuesday that Madrid had suspended all arms exports to Israel since the start of the Israeli war on Gaza on October 7.

The top Spanish diplomat has cited how the brutal Israeli regime forces had bombed United Nations facilities, schools, and hospitals in the besieged Gaza Strip.

He called on the Israeli forces to comply with the orders of the ICJ, insisting on an immediate ceasefire, adding that his country wanted to prevent an escalation of violence in the region.

Albares has also pointed out that the brutal Zionist forces had already massacred more than 27,000 Palestinians in the ceaseless attacks, bombings, and shelling of Gaza in the past four months.

“The January 26 order of the International Court of Justice, the main judicial organ of the United Nations, as well as the unacceptable deterioration of the humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip led the Minister-President to temporarily suspend the valid licenses”, Minister of Housing, Christophe Collignon, said.

The regional government of Wallonia in southern Belgium temporarily suspended two arms export licenses to Israel on Monday.

Wallonia officials said the decision was due to "the unacceptable deterioration of the humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip".

The officials also cited the ICJ's recent decision ordering Israel to avoid genocide in Gaza, according to local media reports.

The ICJ ordered the Israeli regime on January 26 to stop the genocide in its months-long war on Gaza.

The accusations brought by South Africa that said, “The evidence of genocidal intent is not only chilling, it is also overwhelming and incontrovertible.”

Also last week, head of the World Health Organization (WHO), Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, warned that cutting funds to the UN Palestinian refugee agency would entail “catastrophic consequences” for people in Gaza. “No other entity has the capacity to deliver the scale and breadth of assistance that 2.2 million people in Gaza urgently need.”

Source: mehrnews.com

Please click the following URL to read the text of the original story

https://en.mehrnews.com/news/211796/Major-companies-worldwide-cut-military-ties-with-Israel

----

 

Islamic Jihad says ceasefire with Israel must be inclusive, permanent

 07 February 2024

The Palestinian Islamic Jihad resistance movement says it will only agree to a ceasefire deal with Israel that can be permanent and meets all major conditions set by the Palestinians.

Senior Islamic Jihad official Khaled al-Batash said on Wednesday that resistance groups in Gaza will only accept a ceasefire that forces Israel to fully withdraw from the territory, four months after it started brutal aggression against its people.

“The condition set by Palestine’s resistance for a ceasefire with the Zionist regime is that it must be inclusive and permanent,” Batash said.

He also proposed that a major condition for a potential deal to go through would be to transfer pre-fabricated homes to Gaza to house Palestinians displaced by the Israeli war.

The official said that the US, Egypt, Qatar and probably Russia and Turkey could be the guarantors of a ceasefire between the Gaza-based resistance groups and the Israeli regime.

The Israeli regime said earlier on Wednesday that it had received an official response from Gaza’s ruling Hamas movement to conditions and terms of a ceasefire deal proposed by Egypt and Qatar.

Reuters news agency also said in a report that the ceasefire would see Hamas release the rest of the Israeli captives it took in a blitz into the occupied territories in early October in three stages and within 45 days in return for the freedom of Palestinian prisoners from Israeli jails.

It said the deal will also include the reconstruction of Gaza, the withdrawal of Israeli forces from the territory and the exchange of dead bodies between the Palestinians and Israel.

Mohammad al-Hindi, another senior Islamic Jihad official, said on Wednesday that except for some minor changes, the proposed ceasefire covers almost all demands set by the group and Hamas for Israel to accept, including a halt to aggression, military withdrawal, aid delivery, end of blockade, reconstruction and prisoner exchange.

Source: presstv.ir

Please click the following URL to read the text of the original story

https://www.presstv.ir/Detail/2024/02/07/719669/Palestine-Islamic-Jihad-ceasefire-Israel-conditions

----

 

Palestinian resistance continues to confront enemy forces in Gaza

[08/February/2024]

GAZA February 08. 2024 (Saba) - The Palestinian resistance factions have continued to confront the Zionist enemy forces on the 124th day of “al-Aqsa Flood” battle, and killed many Zionist soldiers.

Al-Qassam Brigades announced in a military statement on Wednesday that they had targeted a “Zionist Merkva tank” and a “D9” military bulldozer with “Al-Yassin 105” shells in the vicinity of the Patient’s Friends Hospital, west of Gaza City.

The Brigades confirmed that its fighters were able to target a group of enemy soldiers barricaded inside a house in the Block C area, west of the city of Khan Yunis, with an anti-fortified TBG missile, and then followed it up with an anti-personnel missile.

The brigades said the fighters confirmed that they had killed or wounded and heard the sounds of Nazi enemy soldiers screaming.

In turn, al-Quds Brigades confirmed that they were able to kill all members of a Zionist force consisting of seven soldiers after targeting it with a “TBG” shell, which was holed up in a residential apartment in the vicinity of al-Hawoz near Hayat School, west of Khan Yunis.

The brigades confirmed that an Israeli quadcopter plane was shot down when it was carrying out intelligence missions in the skies of al-Bureij camp.

Source: saba.ye

Please click the following URL to read the text of the original story

https://www.saba.ye/en/news3303005.htm

-----

 

Iran not to leave negotiation table, insistent on ‘nuclear rights’: Prez Raisi

 8th February 2024

Sakina Fatima 

Tehran: Iran’s President Ebrahim Raisi has stressed that his country would never leave the negotiation table and is insistent on its right to develop nuclear technology for “peaceful” purposes.

Raisi made the remarks at a ceremony attended by foreign ambassadors in the Iranian capital of Tehran to mark the 45th anniversary of the victory of the country’s 1979 Islamic Revolution, which falls on February 11, according to a statement published on Wednesday on the website of his office.

He noted that Iran had always been ready for the verification of the peaceful nature of its nuclear activities, adding that Iranian people have an “inalienable” right to use peaceful nuclear energy in areas, including medicine, industry and agriculture.

The Iranian President said the International Atomic Energy Agency had 15 times in its reports confirmed that there had been “no deviation” in Iran’s nuclear activities, Xinhua news agency reported.

He added the West, by imposing sanctions, failed to prevent Tehran from working toward its objectives, and the US “maximum pressure” on the country had ended in “abject failure”.

Iran signed a nuclear deal, formally known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), with world powers in July 2015, agreeing to put some curbs on its nuclear programme in return for the removal of sanctions on the country. The US, however, pulled out of the deal in May 2018 and reimposed its unilateral sanctions on Tehran, prompting the latter to drop some of its nuclear commitments under the deal.

The talks on the revival of the JCPOA began in April 2021 in Vienna, Austria. Despite several rounds of talks, no significant breakthrough has been achieved since the end of the last round in August 2022.

Source: siasat.com

Please click the following URL to read the text of the original story

https://www.siasat.com/iran-not-to-leave-negotiation-table-insistent-on-nuclear-rights-prez-raisi-2973784/

------

 

Hezbollah, Israel exchange fire as tensions rise over Gaza

Feb 7, 2024

TEHRAN, Feb. 07 (MNA) – Lebanese Resistance movement Hezbollah and the Israeli regime exchanged fire on Wednesday in the latest clashes between the two sides as regional tensions continue to mount over the Gaza war.

According to Beirut-based Al Mayadeen news network on Wednesday, the Israeli regime’s army carried out attacks on the town of Al-Khayyam in southern Lebanon, using several drones.

A civilian was killed and two others were wounded as a result, the report said.

The Israeli army also conducted attacks on areas near the towns of Ramya and Beitillu in southern Lebanon.

In response to those attacks, Hezbollah targeted the Zionist army's Zabdin base and a nearby area where the regime's forces had gathered.

Earlier on Wednesday, Hezbollah also hit spy and engineering equipment at the Ramya base with missiles.

Tensions have significantly escalated between Hezbollah and the Zionist regime since October 7 when the occupying regime launched its war on Gaza.

The Lebanese movement says its fighting with Israel is aimed at providing support to the Palestinian resistance fighters battling the regime in Gaza.

Source: mehrnews.com

Please click the following URL to read the text of the original story

https://en.mehrnews.com/news/211805/Hezbollah-Israel-exchange-fire-as-tensions-rise-over-Gaza

-----

 

Israel PM orders troops to prepare for push into Rafah

February 08, 2024

JERUSALEM: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has ordered troops to prepare to enter the overcrowded Gazan city of Rafah, even as a new round of talks aimed at securing a truce with Hamas were set to open Thursday in Cairo.

Netanyahu announced the order after rejecting Hamas’s response to a ceasefire proposal at the center of intense recent diplomatic efforts, though visiting US Secretary of State Antony Blinken insisted on Wednesday that he still saw “space for agreement to be reached”.

Concerns were mounting, meanwhile, for the hundreds of thousands of Palestinians who have sought refuge in Rafah along the Egyptian border, with UN chief Antonio Guterres warning a military push into the city “would exponentially increase what is already a humanitarian nightmare”.

In televised remarks Wednesday, Netanyahu said he had ordered troops to “prepare to operate” in the city and that “total victory” over Hamas was just months away.

Regarding the ceasefire proposal, he added: “Giving in to the bizarre demands of Hamas that we have just heard will... only invite another massacre.”

Blinken, who is on yet another trip to the region to press for a truce, told reporters in Tel Aviv that Hamas’s counter-proposal at least offered an opportunity “to pursue negotiations”.

“While there are some clear non-starters in Hamas’s response, we do think it creates space for agreement to be reached, and we will work at that relentlessly until we get there,” Blinken said, hours after meeting Netanyahu.

Since October 7, the Lebanese-Israeli border has seen near-daily exchanges of fire between Israel and the Iran-backed Hamas ally Hezbollah.

International Crisis Group president Comfort Ero warned Wednesday that the hostilities around the region increased the possibility of the situation boiling over.

“I think the big three — Iran, Israel and the US — do not want to see escalation,” she told AFP in Washington. “But we are also seeing that every day we’re one step closer to a major miscalculation.”

Source: arabnews.com

Please click the following URL to read the text of the original story

https://www.arabnews.com/node/2456211/middle-east

-----

 

Raisi says US presence ‘disrupts’ Middle East security

February 07, 2024

TEHRAN, Tokyo: Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi on Wednesday criticized the deployment of US troops in the Middle East, saying it “disrupts security.”

“The presence of US forces in our region has no justification,” Raisi said in a Tehran ceremony ahead of the 45th anniversary of Iran’s revolution on Feb. 12.

Referring to both past and present deployments, he said the US presence “in Iraq, Syria, Afghanistan and the region is in no way creating security. It disrupts the security in the region.”

Raisi denounced what he called “Iranophobia” and “Islamophobia” and accused the US of creating it.

Meanwhile, Japanese police raided a ship dealer suspected of illegally selling a vessel to Iran, local media reported on Wednesday.

Tokyo police raided the Osaka-based ship dealer on suspicion that it exported a second-hand, 499-tonne freight vessel to Iran instead of to the UAE as it had reported to customs, the Yomiuri Shimbun reported. The company allegedly submitted the false export plan to customs in May 2021, according to Jiji Press and other local media.

Police tracked the ship and found that it had arrived at an Iranian port after sailing through Southeast Asia, the Yomiuri said.

Source: arabnews.com

Please click the following URL to read the text of the original story

https://www.arabnews.com/node/2456031/middle-east

----

 

Europe

 

European Parliament holds session on combating Islamophobia, antisemitism

Selen Valente Rasquinho

08.02.2024

The General Assembly of the European Parliament convened Wednesday to address an alarming surge in Islamophobic and antisemitic sentiment across Europe in recent months.

Margaritis Schinas, vice-president of the European Commission in charge of promoting our European Way of Life, opened the session by highlighting the urgency of the matter.

"This is a very timely discussion," he said, noting the proximity to European Parliament elections and the rise in hate speech and crimes witnessed across Europe.

Schinas detailed disturbing incidents of hatred targeting both Jewish and Muslim communities.

"Synagogues faced Molotov cocktails, residential buildings were marked with Star of David symbols and Jewish shops were vandalized. Similarly, mosques and homes suffered vandalism with spray-painted swastikas and anti-Muslim slurs, with attempts to attack mosques during prayer times," he said.

Schinas also said that apart from physical attacks, calls for "the destruction of the state of Israel, the killing of all Jews, the killing or deportation of Muslim immigrants, and the rape of Muslim women were made online."

"These are absolutely unacceptable," he emphasized, affirming the European Commission's commitment to addressing the issue.

He urged all EU member states to adopt and implement national strategies and action plans to safeguard Muslim and Jewish communities from such hatred.

Belgian Foreign Minister Hadja Lahbib also emphasized the importance of societal dialogue in combating racism and hatred.

Lahbib announced the upcoming European Citizens' Panel on Combating Hatred, scheduled for the first half of the year, to promote inter-citizen dialogue and cooperation in addressing these challenges.

Source: aa.com.tr

Please click the following URL to read the text of the original story

https://www.aa.com.tr/en/europe/european-parliament-holds-session-on-combating-islamophobia-antisemitism/3131064

---

 

In UK, activists lay out children’s clothes in memory of Gaza kids killed by Israel

07 February 2024

Activists in Britain have laid out children’s clothing stretching five kilometers on a beach in memory of the 11,500 children Israel has killed in Gaza.

The poignant art installation laid along the Bournemouth beach by the political activism group Led By Donkeys was composed of more than 11,000 sets of clothes to represent the children killed since October 7.

“Israel has killed over 11,500 Palestinian children in Gaza and the West Bank since October 7,” Led By Donkeys said in a video posted on X.

“It’s impossible to imagine that number. This is what it looks like. A line 5 km long,” it added.

The meticulously arranged project was completed with the help of a team of 80 people. It acts as a physical indicator of the number of children mercilessly killed in Gaza.

“We’re really trying to show the scale of what’s happening since it’s very difficult for people to understand these kinds of numbers,” organizer James Sadri told Bournemouth One radio on Monday.

“If you were to walk this line it would take you an hour to walk past 5 km of children who've been killed - and that should be a wake-up call for all of us,” Sadri was quoted as saying.

“We're trying to communicate the scale of the killing – you cannot communicate that by writing a number in an article or saying it in a news bulletin, you have to see it, you have to feel it.”.

The Bournemouth beach has become a canvas for grief after activists laid out kids clothes to highlight the devastating toll of child deaths in Gaza. (Photo by Led By Donkeys)

The group called for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza.

“So many children have been killed in Gaza and our own politicians and other governments around the world are really doing nothing to stop it,” Sadri told Bournemouth One radio.

“It’s going to take people like us to try and build this very strong visual to wake people up and say that there needs to be a cease-fire.”

The clothes are set to be removed, cleaned and distributed to charities and second-hand shops.

On Saturday, in one of Britain’s largest pro-Palestinian demonstrations, hundreds of thousands of protesters marched through central London.

Israel launched hostilities in the besieged Gaza Strip in early October. The regime has killed over 27,700 Palestinians so far. More than 67,000 people have also been injured.

Source: presstv.ir

Please click the following URL to read the text of the original story

https://www.presstv.ir/Detail/2024/02/07/719654/UK-activists-children-clothes-UK-beach-Gaza

----

 

Putin says Russia is working to free hostages in Gaza conflict

February 08, 2024

President Vladimir Putin told leaders of Russia’s Jewish community on Wednesday that Moscow had achieved “specific results” in diplomatic efforts to free hostages caught up in Israel’s conflict with Hamas, Russian news agencies reported.

The agencies said Putin made the comments at a meeting with Russia’s chief rabbi, Berl Lazar, and the head of the Federation of Jewish Communities, Alexander Boroda. Putin said Russia had made use of its contacts with the political wing of Hamas.

“You know, since the situation became more tense in the Middle East, Russia has been doing everything to help people who became hostages,” Putin was quoted as saying.

“As is known, our Foreign Ministry worked through the political wing of Hamas and, on the whole, there have been specific results.”

Putin did not elaborate, according to the reported comments.

Moscow’s efforts, though directed at helping Russian nationals, also sought to help others, the president said.

“They include elderly people and their family members who survived the Holocaust,” he was quoted as saying.

“But I know, I understand, that it is vital to carry on with these efforts. And that is what we are doing.”

Russia, which has drawn closer to Israel’s arch-rival Iran since the outbreak of the nearly two-year-old Ukraine conflict, has restated its support for Palestinian statehood, and criticized Israeli military action in the Gaza Strip.

Moscow also has said the violence in the Middle East is a reflection of US policy failures in the region.

Putin’s reference to Holocaust survivors comes a day after Russia’s foreign ministry told the Israeli ambassador, Simona Halperin, of its “negative reaction” to her criticisms of Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov and Russian policy.

Authorities criticized her “unacceptable comments” in an interview with Russian newspaper Kommersant in which she said Lavrov had played down the importance of the Holocaust and that Russia was too friendly with Hamas.

Source: arabnews.com

Please click the following URL to read the text of the original story

https://www.arabnews.com/node/2456126/middle-east

------

 

School children rally outside UK parliament demanding Gaza ceasefire

07 February, 2024

Hundreds of school children gathered outside the British parliament in London on Wednesday to call for a permanent ceasefire in Gaza, as part of the National School Strike for Palestine initiative.

In a child-led press conference, striking school students delivered a powerful statement to the media and politicians urging for an immediate stop to Israel's war on Gaza.

They also spoke of their experience of witnessing a genocide through social media, voicing frustration and anger at the inaction of the British government and opposition.

The children made pleas urging for the safety of their peers in Palestine, after Israel's bombing campaign has killed over 10,000 children since 7 October.

"We are here because we have a voice, and you need to listen to us," a child, aged 8, said. "We are not too little to understand how awful it is what is happening in Gaza. We know that the killing of children is never acceptable and will never be normal."

The press conference, organised by Parents for Palestine in collaboration with the National School Strike for Palestine, urged the British government to support a permanent ceasefire in Gaza, end all arms supplies to Israel and resume funding for the UN humanitarian aid agency for Palestinians UNRWA.

"Our children do not want to grow up in a country complicit in genocide. Whilst almost 12,000 children in Gaza killed by Israel will never get to grow old, our children will speak to their humanity," parent Kate Joseph of Parents for Palestine said.

"The Government and the Labour Party have not just betrayed Palestinian children, but have betrayed children all across this country who have a right to grow up in a world where human rights are protected and people of all races are treated equally."

Central London has seen regular weekly protests since Israel's war on Gaza began on 7 October, with hundreds of thousands marching to call for an end to the bloodshed, putting pressure on the UK government and Labour party, both of which have not urged Israel to stop its onslaught.

Britain's Foreign Secretary Lord Cameron said the UK would not rule out Britain eventually recognising a state of Palestine. However, he said this could only come if Hamas was no longer in control in Gaza.

Source: newarab.com

Please click the following URL to read the text of the original story

https://www.newarab.com/news/school-children-uk-hold-protest-gaza-ceasefire

-----

 

Pakistan

 

Pakistan responds to UN concern over polls security

February 8, 2024

KARACHI: The Forei­­gn Office has responded to the UN’s concerns over terrorist attacks targeting election campaigns and the participation of wom­en in the electoral process.

The reply came a day after the UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights voiced concerns over terrorist atta­cks and the violation of the law requiring political parties to award five per cent of tickets to women.

In a statement released on Wednesday, FO spokesperson Mumtaz Zahra Baloch said the authorities have finalised security plans for the countrywide exercise, as per relevant laws.

“Pakistan is fully committed to foster an inclusive democratic process, uphold the rule of law and protect human rights and fundamental freedoms guaranteed in its laws and Constitution,” the statement added.

While replying to the UN body’s concerns over the “harassment, arrests and prolonged detentions” of PTI leaders and supporters, the spokesperson said that Pakistan’s judicial system ensures “fair trial” and legal recourse is available for “any complaints in the electoral process”.

FO confirms Afghanistan, Iran border crossings to stay closed today

Earlier on Tuesday, the spokesperson for the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Liz Throssell, urged the government to “uphold the fundamental freedoms necessary for an inclusive and meaningful democratic process”.

“Pakistan’s democratic gains over the past 15 years have been hard-won in the face of many security and economic challenges. Elections are an important moment to reaffirm the country’s commitment to human rights and democracy and to ensure the right to participation of all its people, including women and minorities.”

Borders closed

In a separate statement, the FO spokesperson also confirmed that border crossings with Iran and Afghanistan have been closed “to ensure full security during the general elections”.

The border crossings will remain closed both for cargo and pedestrians on Thursday, and normal operations will resume on Friday.

The UN body on human rights also expressed concerns over the security situation in the lead-up to the election. It said 24 attacks targeting political parties and election campaigns have been reported.

The attacks have mostly occurred in Khyber Pakh­tunkhwa and Balochistan, where candidates, parties’ election offices and government buildings have been targeted.

Earlier on Monday, the US State Department voiced apprehension over challenges to freedom of expression during the current electoral process.

Deputy spokesperson Vedant Patel, in a news briefing, affirmed, “We want to see that process take place in a way that facilitates broad participation with respect for freedom of expression, assembly, and association.”

He added, “We are concerned by some of the infringements that we have seen in that space.”

Highlighting the significance of citizens’ rights, Mr Patel underscored, “Pakistanis deserve to exercise their fundamental right to choose their future leaders through free and fair elections without fear, violence, or intimidation. And it’s ultimately for the people of Pakistan to decide their political future.”

Mr Patel expressed concerns about “incidents of violence and restrictions on media freedom, freedom of expression, including internet freedom, and peaceful assembly and association”.

Source: dawn.com

Please click the following URL to read the text of the original story

https://www.dawn.com/news/1812127/pakistan-responds-to-un-concern-over-polls-security

----

 

Imran, Elahi cast votes via postal ballot

February 08, 2024

Saleh Mughal

RAWALPINDI:The postal ballot polling on Wednesday concluded at Central Jail Adiala, with the imprisoned founder of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), Imran Khan, exercising his voting right through a postal ballot.

A total of fifteen prisoners, among them Imran Khan and former Punjab chief minister Chaudhry Pervaiz Elahi, participated in the postal ballot voting process.

However, despite pleas from former foreign minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi and former interior minister Sheikh Rasheed Ahmed, the prison administration was unable to secure the postal ballots.

Imran Khan finds himself incarcerated with a tally of four criminal convictions, three of which were pronounced just last week. Due to these legal setbacks, he is prohibited from participating in elections or assuming any public office.

The sentences handed down include terms of three, 10, 14, and seven years, all to be served concurrently. Furthermore, Imran Khan faces an extensive legal challenge, with over 150 additional legal cases pending against him.

He remains incarcerated ahead of February 8 (today’s) vote.

Out of the 145 prisoners who applied to vote via postal ballots, only fifteen, including Imran Khan and Pervaiz Ellahi, managed to obtain the necessary materials for casting their votes.

A designated location within the jail was earmarked as a regular polling station for the postal ballot voting.

Due to the high-profile status of Imran and Elahi, postal ballots and voting materials were sent to their cells, where they marked and submitted their votes.

It is worth noting that a total of 145 prisoners, including the founder of PTI, former Punjab chief minister, former foreign minister, and former interior minister, had submitted applications to the prison administration to exercise their voting rights via postal ballots.

However, due to the failure of the prison administration to receive the postal ballots, approximately 130 prisoners, including Shah Mehmood Qureshi and Sheikh Rasheed, were unable to partake in the electoral process.

The cast votes have reportedly been dispatched to the District Returning Officer (DRO) at the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) in the prescribed manner.

Source: tribune.com.pk

Please click the following URL to read the text of the original story

https://tribune.com.pk/story/2455816/imran-elahi-cast-votes-via-postal-ballot

----

 

PTI urges people to vote for Imran battling for their rights

February 08, 2024

ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Wednesday urged the people to remember the incarcerated PTI chairman-for-life Imran Khan who was battling for restoring the country’s dignity and honour and ensuring the masses welfare.

In a special message, Central Information Secretary Raoof Hasan said Imran had dedicated everything, including his life, to the cause of restoring the country’s dignity, sovereignty and ensuring public welfare.

“Therefore, as citizens of the country, we have a debt to pay. We must use our vote to change the face of Pakistan by dismantling a rotten system that has cast a vicious stranglehold on the country and its people,” he noted.

“This can happen only if you ensure that you use the power of your vote to bring back PTI and free your beloved leader Imran Khan from the clutches of his captors,” he said.

“That day is here. That moment is here. Nothing should deter you from going to the polling station and using the power of your vote to change Pakistan so that it gets on course to realise the dream of its creation as was visualised by Quaid-e-Azam Mohammad Ali Jinnah. Move out. Move on.”

Source: thenews.com.pk

Please click the following URL to read the text of the original story

https://www.thenews.com.pk/print/1155656-pti-urges-people-to-vote-for-imran-battling-for-their-rights

----

 

Pakistan's former PM Imran Khan votes by postal ballot from jail, wife Bushra Bibi misses out

 08.02.24

Pakistan's Former prime minister Imran Khan and other prominent incarcerated political figures have cast their votes through postal ballot from jail, according to a media report on Thursday.

However, Bushra Bibi, Khan's wife, was unable to participate in the voting as she was convicted and arrested after the completion of the postal voting process, Dawn News reported.

Political leaders who have managed to vote by mail included former foreign minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi, former Punjab chief minister Chaudhry Parvez Elahi, Awami Muslim League chief Sheikh Rashid, and former information minister Fawad Chaudhry, the report quoted Adiala Jail sources as saying on Wednesday.

Overall, fewer than 100 prisoners of Adiala Jail were able to vote, constituting only about one per cent of the prison's 7,000 inmates.

Sources said the jail administration allowed only those inmates to cast their votes who had valid computerised national identity cards (CNICs), and the reason for a low turnout was that an overwhelming majority of the prisoners did not have the original CNIC.

“There are criminals, dacoits, thieves, convicts in the heinous crimes and under-trial prisoners (UTPs) detained in the jail,” a senior official said.

He said most criminals did not carry the CNIC to avoid their identity, while the identity cards of the UTPs were generally withheld by the police stations.

The official said the Adiala Jail administration received postal ballots from the Election Commission in mid-January and the ballots were provided to the inmates. The last date for submission was January 22.

However, Asad Javed Warraich, the jail superintendent, extended the time after which the votes were transmitted to the district returning officers (DROs) of respective constituencies in sealed envelopes.

A senior official said that since some inmates were from far-flung areas, the exercise was completed at least a fortnight before the elections to ensure the delivery to the DROs before final counting.

Jail sources said that former first lady Bushra Bibi also wanted to cast a vote through a postal ballot, but her request could not be entertained since the process had been completed by the time she was detained.

Bushra Bibi, 49, was imprisoned at Khan's Bani Gala residence here after an accountability court last week sentenced the couple to 14 years in jail in the Toshakhana corruption case.

Mashal Yousafzai, a spokesperson for Bushra Bibi, confirmed that the spouse of the former prime minister had been denied casting the vote through a postal ballot.

Meanwhile, as cash-strapped Pakistan goes to polls on Thursday, the PTI has appealed to the public to remember the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party’s incarcerated founding chairman, Imran Khan, who it said was fighting the battle to restore the country’s dignity, honour and sovereignty and ensure the welfare of its people.

In a message, PTI Central Information Secretary Raoof Hasan said Khan, 71, had dedicated everything, including his life, to that cause.

“As citizens of the country, we have a debt to pay. We must use our vote to change the face of Pakistan by dismantling a rotten system that has cast a vicious stranglehold on the country and its people,” he said in a post on X.

Khan’s PTI party is leading the social media campaign for its candidates contesting as independents on multiple different symbols after the Supreme Court ruling stripped off its electoral symbol, the iconic cricket bat, in a case related to intra-party elections.

Cricketer-turned-politician Khan, who has been in jail since August last year, has recently been given ten, 14 and seven years imprisonment in cipher, Toshakhana and Iddat (his third unlawful marriage) cases, respectively.

Many other PTI leaders have been languishing in various jails across Pakistan following the May 9 attacks, including on military installations, across the country following Khan's arrest in a corruption case.

Khan and his party have alleged there is no level playing field in the ongoing election process.

The PTI leader has also blamed the powerful military establishment for preventing him from riding back to power.

The election body has stripped his party of the iconic cricket bat as the election symbol, rejected his nomination papers and those of other party leaders, at least one of his party leaders is killed during polling-related violence and the latest, a key candidate from Lahore indicted in a terrorism case.

Source: telegraphindia.com

Please click the following URL to read the text of the original story

https://www.telegraphindia.com/world/pakistans-former-prime-minister-imran-khan-votes-by-postal-ballot-from-jail-wife-bushra-bibi-misses-out/cid/1999088

------

 

Southeast Asia

 

Celebrate diversity and nation will prosper, Hadi says in CNY message

08 Feb 2024

JUSTIN ZACK

PETALING JAYA: Celebrating the country's racial and cultural diversity will help it prosper, says PAS.

In his Chinese New Year message, party president Tan Sri Abdul Hadi Awang said all Malaysians should aspire towards a prosperous nation in which all communities live in peace and harmony.

"The diversity of races and ethnicities is celebrated as a sign of Allah's magnificence and is part of nature in the creation of humanity.

"Islam, which is the guiding principle of PAS, guarantees justice, peace and well-being for all races and religions in this country," he said on Thursday (Feb 8).

"PAS holds to the concept of no compulsion in religion even when Islam is in full authority. PAS, through its governance in Kelantan, Terengganu, Kedah and Perlis, has successfully shown that religious freedom for other faiths is not obstructed, places of worship are not demolished, and economic activities are not restricted.

"Therefore, my hope during this Chinese New Year celebration is for the unity of races in Malaysia to be continuously strengthened and fortified," he added.

Abdul Hadi also wished those returning to their hometowns a safe journey.

Source: thestar.com.my

Please click the following URL to read the text of the original story

https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2024/02/08/celebrate-diversity-and-nation-will-prosper-hadi-says-in-cny-message

----

 

Ministry to provide sharia funding of Rp10 billion for MSMEs

 February 8, 2024

Jakarta (ANTARA) - The Ministry of Co-operatives and Small and Medium Enterprises is ready to provide funding of up to Rp10 billion (US$640 thousand) for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

The ministry's assistant deputy of entrepreneur financing and entrepreneurial functional official management, Edhi KusdiyarwokoDwikuncono, stated that the funding will be provided through a sharia financing scheme in the Entrepreneur Financial Fiesta (EFF) programme.

"The 2024 EFF takes place to give a new boost to MSMEs' development in Indonesia. We are committed to supporting our entrepreneurs through easier financing access and holistic assistance," Dwikuncono noted as per the written statement received here, Thursday.

He affirmed that the funding is provided to accelerate the development of micro-scale enterprises in Indonesia.

The funding will be accessible for participating MSMEs through the securities crowdfunding facility provided by LBS Urun Dana, a secure and legal sharia financing online platform overseen by the Financial Services Authority (OJK), the official explained.

The ministry will also provide webinars and mentoring sessions for MSMEs entrepreneurs to develop themselves and improve their quality during the 2024 EFF, taking place from February to June 2024, he revealed.

Meanwhile, Co-operatives and Small and Medium Enterprises Minister Teten Masduki stated on Wednesday (February 7) that Indonesian MSMEs' credit access is the lowest in Asia.

According to the minister, the requirement of collateral to have one's credit application approved is an aspect that discourages MSMEs accessing credit financing.

Among Asian countries, Indonesian MSMEs' credit access is only at 21 percent, as compared to China and Japan, at 60 percent, or South Korea, which has reached the level of 80 percent, he noted.

To address the issue, Masduki stated that his side is developing a special credit scoring system that allows MSMEs' credit application to be assessed by their business performance.

Source: antaranews.com

Please click the following URL to read the text of the original story

https://en.antaranews.com/news/305466/ministry-to-provide-sharia-funding-of-rp10-billion-for-msmes

----

 

Isra Miraj inspires social piety amid diversity: Religious Minister

 February 8, 2024

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Religious Affairs Minister YaqutCholilQoumas stated that the Isra Miraj commemoration is a momentum to invite all Muslims to increase social piety and strengthen their relationship with the God Almighty amid the social dynamics.

"Amid the diversity and dynamics of Indonesian society, Isra Miraj teaches us to strengthen our relationship with God while increasing social piety in daily life," Qoumas remarked in a video uploaded on the ministry's YouTube account here on Thursday.

The minister highlighted that Isra Miraj reminds the people of Prophet Muhammad's spiritual journey that reflects Muslims' history and current daily lives.

The Prophet's spiritual journey has invaluable lessons on how to love the creator and fellow human beings.

Qoumas explained that carrying out routine prayers has a deep philosophy of strengthening piety, discipline, and obedience to God.

"The social impact of carrying out prayers is enormous because prayer brings spiritual benefits that strengthen the bond between the individual and God Almighty. It also forms a community that supports each other and strengthens social relations," he affirmed.

The minister remarked that Muslims can learn from the story of the Prophet's companion named Salman Alfarisi.

He stated that by learning from Alfarisi, Muslims can improve their piety amid diversity in Indonesian society.

He explained that Alfarisi undertook a long journey to find spiritual truth, and he finally met Prophet Muhammad in Medina. Since then, he felt a strong connection to Islam that prioritizes social justice and compassion for others.

From that journey, Alfarisi became a loyal friend of the Prophet. He also demonstrated his piety by becoming an example in carrying out social good.

"He (Alfarisi), helped the poor and looked after their needs. One of his famous stories was when he spent all his wealth to free prisoners of war who were treated unfairly," he stated.

Source: antaranews.com

Please click the following URL to read the text of the original story

https://en.antaranews.com/news/305457/isra-miraj-inspires-social-piety-amid-diversity-religious-minister

-----

 

Over 200 delegates from 23 countries to attend Post-War Gaza Rebuilding Programme

08-02- 2024

SUNGAI PETANI: More than 200 delegates from 23 countries will participate in the International Post-War Gaza Rebuilding Programme to discuss the direction of post-war reconstruction in the Gaza Strip.

Malaysian Consultative Council for Islamic Organisation (MAPIM) president Mohd Azmi Abdul Hamid said the three-day programme scheduled to start this Saturday (Feb 10) in Shah Alam, Selangor will be attended by representatives from non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and embassies.

He said representatives from Russia, the United Kingdom, New Zealand, Pakistan, Indonesia, Lebanon, Singapore, Thailand, Cambodia and Middle Eastern countries have confirmed their participation.

“The delegates will hear the latest information about what is happening in Gaza and what is the main priority for aid. They will discuss how to rebuild Gaza.

“After this conference, we will determine which country wants to focus on health, infrastructure and education. We also want to coordinate with the Gaza authorities and join other international bodies,“ he told reporters here today.

Mohd Azmi said the initiative had been communicated to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan.

“They strongly agreed for Malaysia to be the leader in planning how to help Palestine after the war,“ he said.

He said a total of US$10 billion (about RM47.6 billion) was needed for the infrastructure development.

Mohd Azmi also expressed hope that the people of this country would continue to donate to help the redevelopment of Gaza.

He said a total of 26,737 people, including 11,000 children, had been killed in Gaza since the war broke out on Oct 7 last year.–Bernama

Source: thesun.my

Please click the following URL to read the text of the original story

https://thesun.my/local_news/over-200-delegates-from-23-countries-to-attend-post-war-gaza-rebuilding-programme-IE12077395

-----

 

Arab World

 

Crown Prince reaffirms exerting more efforts to achieve Gulf unity and prosperity of its people

February 08, 2024

RIYADH — Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman expressed his aspiration to make more efforts to achieve the vision of Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman to achieve the unity of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries as well as the stability and prosperity of their people.

The Crown Prince said this while co-chairing the 3rd meeting of the Saudi-Bahraini Coordination Council along with Bahrain’s Crown Prince and Prime Minister Prince Salman bin Hamad Al-Khalifa in Riyadh on Wednesday. The two leaders witnessed the announcements about key joint projects and signing of a number of agreements and memoranda of understanding (MoUs) between the two countries.

In his speech, the Crown Prince highlighted the significance of the activities and initiatives being carried out by the Saudi-Bahraini Coordination Council and its affiliated committees in all areas of cooperation, saying that this would benefit the citizens of both countries and meet the aspirations of their leadership. He also lauded the strong and deep-rooted historical relations that bind the two kingdoms and their peoples.

In his speech, Prince Salman bin Hamad praised the level of distinguished relations and historical ties between the two kingdoms. He stressed the importance of these meetings and their effective role in strengthening the strategic partnerships between Bahrain and Saudi Arabia to achieve the desired integration and its contribution to pushing joint cooperation towards new horizons that achieve prosperity and development for the two countries and their peoples.

Prince Salman praised the good efforts made by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in supporting various initiatives and projects that would contribute to achieving integration and development for the two countries, including the initiatives that the committees of the Saudi-Bahraini Coordination Council are working on, which aim to put shared aspirations and visions into practice.

In the presence of Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Prince Salman bin Hamad the opening of the first office of the Saudi-Bahraini Company and the completion of the construction of King Abdullah Medical City Hospital in Bahrain were announced. The company was established in November 2022 between the Saudi Public Investment Fund and the Bahrain Mumtalakat Holding Company, with an investment amounting to $5 billion. The King Abdullah Medical City Hospital is scheduled to begin operation during the second quarter of 2024.

Announcements were also made with regard to a number of projects related to launching training opportunities and incubating private sector institutions concerned with artificial intelligence, networking and electronic data sharing, and partnerships between private sector institutions in the fields of health and handling of products between the two countries.

During the meeting, a number of agreements and MoUs were signed in the fields of energy, economy, finance and financial markets, legal, culture, education, administrative development, health, television, radio and news.

Several ministers and high ranking officials from the two countries attended the meeting. It was agreed to hold the 4th meeting of the Saudi-Bahraini Coordination Council in Bahrain.

Source: saudigazette.com.sa

Please click the following URL to read the text of the original story

https://saudigazette.com.sa/article/640274/SAUDI-ARABIA/Crown-Prince-reaffirms-exerting-more-efforts-to-achieve-Gulf-unity-and-prosperity-of-its-people

----

 

Defense minister reiterates Saudi commitment to achieving political solution in Yemen

February 08, 2024

RIYADH: During a meeting in Riyadh on Wednesday with the US special envoy for Yemen, Tim Lenderking, the Saudi defense minister, Prince Khalid Bin Salman, reiterated his country’s support for Yemen and its commitment to efforts to promote talks that could resolve the conflict in the country.

“Met with US Special Envoy for Yemen Tim Lenderking to discuss Yemen and the Kingdom’s support of UN efforts to establish a road map,” the prince wrote in a message posted on social media platform X.

“I reiterated the Kingdom’s commitment to supporting Yemen and promoting dialogue among parties to reach a political solution under UN supervision.”

Source: arabnews.com

Please click the following URL to read the text of the original story

https://www.arabnews.com/node/2456091/saudi-arabia

----

 

Ansarullah condemns US attack on Iraqi resistance

[08/February/2024]

SANA'A February 08. 2024 (Saba) - The Political Bureau of Ansarullah on Thursday strongly condemned the treacherous criminal American attack that led to the martyrdom of the leader of the Iraqi Popular Mobilization Forces and a number of his companions in the capital, Baghdad.

The Bureau confirmed in a statement that this attack comes in the context of the US support for the Zionist entity, considering the targeting of the martyr Abu Baqir al-Saadi as an aggression against the entire Iraqi people.

It pointed out that the American aggression indicates the extent of the impact and effectiveness of the Iraqi resistance strikes in support of the Palestinian people in Gaza and reflects the American-Israeli inability to stop the Islamic resistance strikes in Iraq.

The Bureau also stressed that the American presence in Iraq and the region is a major reason for destabilizing security and stability, and it is an illegal presence to target the nation and protect the Zionist entity.

It stressed that the repeated American attacks on the peoples of the nation will not affect its position and will not deter it from continuing its support for the Palestinian people in Gaza.

The Ansarullah Political Bureau expressed its condolences to the Iraqi people and the Islamic resistance in Iraq, congratulating them on their great sacrifices in order to defend the Palestinian people in Gaza.

Source: saba.ye

Please click the following URL to read the text of the original story

https://www.saba.ye/en/news3303009.htm

----

 

Hajj Ministry to host first Umrah and Ziyarah Forum in Madinah

February 07, 2024

RIYADH: The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah will host the inaugural Umrah and Ziyarah Forum at the King Salman International Convention Center in Madinah from April 22-24.

The forum, to be held under the patronage of Madinah Gov. Prince Salman bin Sultan, is part of a series of events held by the ministry to improve pilgrim services.

Following a record-breaking 13.55 million Umrah pilgrims visiting the Kingdom in 2023, the forum will serve as an important platform for dialogue, exchange of expertise, and the unveiling of innovative services and solutions that improve the Umrah experience.

The event will include dialogue sessions, discussion groups, interactive workshops and an exhibition displaying the latest advancements in the sector.

It aims to broaden local and international connections, promote collaboration and forge lasting partnerships in the service of Umrah performers and visitors.

Government agency officials, Umrah operators, hospitality providers, transport and logistics companies, health care services, tech and telecom companies, AI pioneers, media outlets, construction firms, travel agents, consumer product suppliers and financial organizations will take part in the forum.

The Kingdom will showcase its latest Umrah initiatives and new operational strategies at the three-day event, as well as future schemes in line with Saudi Vision 2030.

Developing Hajj and Umrah services in the Kingdom is a key priority of the Saudi government and an extension of the country’s historic role in serving Muslims and Islam worldwide.

Source: arabnews.com

Please click the following URL to read the text of the original story

https://www.arabnews.com/node/2455876/saudi-arabia

-----

 

Riyadh to host ministerial confab to advance united Arab stance for post-war Gaza

08 Feb 2024

Saudi Arabia is hosting a summit of foreign ministers from five countries in the region on Thursday in order to advance a united Arab stance regarding the war in Gaza as well as political initiatives for when the fighting ends, two senior Arab diplomats revealed to The Times of Israel.

The Arab ministers are slated to discuss efforts to expand pressure for a ceasefire in Gaza, leveraging their willingness to take part in the Strip’s rehabilitation after the war in addition to further integrating Israel into the region, on the condition that Jerusalem agrees to take steps creating an irreversible pathway to an eventual Palestinian state, the diplomas said.

The gathering is the latest example of the united front that Israel’s Arab partners and potential allies are building, one that is increasingly at odds with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government, which wants the war to drag on months longer until “total victory” is secured. On the other hand, the grouping of Arab countries led by Saudi Arabia are offering Israel a partnership that could be used to more effectively combat Iran, which Netanyahu has long sought.

The meeting — which has not yet been publicized — will also be attended by Hussein al-Sheikh, a top aide to Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas; as Riyadh continues to expand its cooperation with Ramallah, assuaging concerns that Saudi Arabia will abandon the Palestinian cause while working to boost its regional and global stature, the two diplomats said.

Joining Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan and Sheikh will be the top diplomats from Egypt, Jordan, the United Arab Emirates and Qatar, according to the diplomats.

The summit follows several covert meetings Riyadh organized over the past month for top national security officials from Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Egypt and the PA.

Those meetings focused on security matters, such as whether the Arab states would be willing to provide troops in order to help secure Gaza after the war. One of the diplomats told The Times of Israel that participants expressed willingness to cooperate with such an endeavor for an interim period if it is publicly requested by the PA — as opposed to Israel — and if it is part of a broader, time-bound initiative aimed at eventually establishing a Palestinian state.

Thursday’s meeting will have less of a security focus, instead revolving more around issues such as significantly reforming the PA so that it is better suited to return to governing Gaza and coordinating the steps countries are willing to take to boost ties with Israel, namely Saudi Arabia, which is engaged in talks with the Biden administration about normalizing relations with Jerusalem.

Saudi Arabia notably chose to expand the participants beyond the countries that joined the earlier security-focused meetings, adding Qatar and the UAE.

While Qatar is often left out of such alignments given its support for Islamist governments, the decision to include Doha is a recognition of its influence over Hamas, which participating countries appreciate is essential for post-war planning, one of the senior Arab diplomats said, highlighting how Qatar hosts Hamas’s political leaders abroad.

The Arab countries participating in Thursday’s meeting don’t want Hamas to be included in the political leadership of Gaza after the war, but they do believe that the terror group will manage to survive in some form and that a level of its acquiescence will be needed in order to successfully advance the rehabilitation of Gaza, the diplomat explained.

The diplomat recognized that this forecast is utterly rejected by Netanyahu, who argued Wednesday that the only way that Israel will be able to boost ties with its Arab neighbors is by succeeding in its mission of completely defeating Hamas. The premier suggested that anything less would allow for the terror group’s revival and demonstrate an exploitable level of weakness after Hamas massacred some 1,200 Israelis on October 7 and took another 253 hostage.

Vowing to eradicate Hamas, Israel launched a massive military offensive in Gaza, which has killed ore than 27,300 Palestinians, mostly women and children, according to the Hamas-run health ministry. That figure cannot be independently verified and includes some 10,000 Hamas terrorists Israel says it has killed in battle. Israel also says it killed some 1,000 gunmen inside Israel on October 7.

But four months into the war, areas in northern Gaza which the IDF managed to clear of Hamas fighters early on in the war have begun to see their resurgence in recent days, highlighting the difficult task Israel faces in defeating the terror group, particularly without cooperation from its Arab allies in filling the vacuum with a more moderate power.

Regardless, much of the success of the Arab initiative hinges on the deal that Qatar, Egypt and the US are trying to mediate between Israel and Hamas that would see the remaining 136 hostages released in exchange for an extended pause.

The US is aiming to utilize the pause to negotiate a more permanent ceasefire and advance its regional initiatives. However, the hostage talks hit another snag on Tuesday after Hamas responded to the framework proposed by the mediators with conditions that both Israel and the US indicated were non-starters, though, Blinken said Wednesday that space still remained for the sides to move forward.

The vision that the Arab countries are seeking to advance at Thursday’s meeting has been championed by the Biden administration for months, and US Secretary of State Antony Blinken again laid it out for Israelis during his visit to Tel Aviv on Wednesday.

“You can see the path forward for Israel and for the entire region with integration, with normalization, with security assurances [for Israel], with the pathway to a Palestinian state. That entirely changes the equation and the future for the better for Israelis, for Arabs, for Palestinians, and in so doing isolates groups like Hamas, isolates countries like Iran, that want a very different future,” Blinken said during a press conference after his meetings with Israeli leaders.

“It will be up to Israelis to decide what they want to do… All that we can do is to show what the possibilities are… The alternative right now looks like an endless cycle of violence and destruction and despair. We know where the better path lies, but I don’t minimize in any way the very difficult decisions that would need to be made by all concerned to travel down that path,” he added.

While Netanyahu made Saudi normalization one of his top agenda items upon returning to the premiership in December 2022, he has all but rejected the idea that it be conditioned on the creation of a pathway to a Palestinian state.

The prime minister has stressed that Israel must maintain security control over the entire area west of the Jordan River, which would leave whatever Palestinian state that could be created in that space as less than fully sovereign. Abbas and other PA officials have long ago accepted that their future state would be demilitarized, so there might not necessarily be a contradiction there.

However, the current makeup of Netanyahu’s coalition includes far-right elements who are even more adversarial toward the Palestinians than he is, pushing for mass displacement of Gaza’s residents and calling to dissolve the PA. Determined to keep his house in order, the premier has avoided even holding discussions regarding post-war strategy let alone agreeing to concessions that would see Palestinian sovereignty boosted.

Like a Saudi normalization deal, the type of involvement in rebuilding Gaza that the Arab states are prepared to offer is something that Netanyahu has long desired but now seems poised to reject, given the conditions under which that assistance is being offered.

Thursday’s meeting comes as the US seeks to advance a similar initiative with its Middle Eastern partners aimed at coalescing the region around a united policy for managing Gaza after the Israel-Hamas war.

The US is advancing a “contact group” with Jordan, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar and Turkey, which Washington hopes will allow for ideas to be raised and advanced in a single forum, a Biden administration official and a senior Arab diplomat told The Times of Israel last week.

Each country has been tasked with picking a representative on the contact group, with Assistant Secretary for Near Eastern Affairs Barbara Leaf being the US delegate, according to the administration official. The forum is expected to begin holding largely virtual working group meetings next month.

The Saudi normalization effort again made headlines on Wednesday after Riyadh issued a stern statement Tuesday rejecting what it claimed was US National Security Council spokesman John Kirby’s suggestion that the Gulf kingdom is prepared to forge ties with Israel before there is a ceasefire in Gaza and without progress toward Palestinian statehood.

Kirby was asked during a press briefing earlier in the day whether securing a hostage deal and a Saudi normalization agreement are part of the same US effort. Kirby responded that they’re two distinct tracks, and noted that the US has held “positive” talks with Riyadh on the matter both before and after October 7.

Saudi officials have publicly acknowledged their willingness to normalize relations with Israel, even after October 7, but they’ve stressed — as has US Secretary of State Antony Blinken — that no deal can be reached until there is a ceasefire in Gaza and that it must include the creation of an irreversible pathway toward a Palestinian state.

Either because Kirby’s separation of the hostage talks from the normalization negotiations could be understood to mean that Riyadh would be prepared to establish relations before there is a truce, or because the White House spokesman was overly optimistic in his characterization of the talks, Saudi Arabia’s foreign ministry decided to call him out.

“The kingdom has communicated its firm position to the US administration that there will be no diplomatic relations with Israel unless an independent Palestinian state is recognized on the 1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital, and that the Israeli aggression on the Gaza Strip stops and all Israeli occupation forces withdraw from the Gaza Strip,” the statement added.

While Saudi officials in recent months have moved away from their long-held position — enshrined in the 2002 Arab Peace Initiative — that a fully implemented two-state solution is a precondition to normalization with Israel, they hadn’t yet specified the kind of provisional steps they would accept in exchange for an agreement with Israel, sufficing with statements regarding improving Palestinian livelihood or creating a pathway toward the establishment of a Palestinian state.

Recognition of a Palestinian state on the pre-1967 lines appeared to be the most detailed stipulation that Riyadh has offered in recent months. While Netanyahu has all but rejected a two-state solution and a large percentage of Israelis would oppose a framework based on the pre-1967 lines, the Saudi statement notably refrained from specifically demanding that Israel be the one to recognize an independent Palestinian state, instead placing the onus on members of the UN Security Council.

The statement was issued just one day after Blinken met with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in Riyadh, in a possible indication that the sit-down did not go well.

Still, by directing the demand for Palestinian state recognition at Security Council members, such as the US, rather than at Israel, Riyadh can be seen as presenting Washington with a way around the Netanyahu government’s rejection of a two-state solution.

It also came less than a week after UK Foreign Minister David Cameron said his government was considering recognizing an independent Palestinian state. Days later, the Axios news site reported that the US was weighing the same step after having long rejected it on the basis that the move should come after Israel and the Palestinians have agreed to a two-state solution.

Saudi Arabia’s embassy in Washington did not respond to a request for comment on this story.

Source: timesofisrael.com

Please click the following URL to read the text of the original story

https://www.timesofisrael.com/riyadh-to-host-ministerial-confab-to-advance-united-arab-stance-for-post-war-gaza/

-----

 

Africa

 

UNHCR chief visits displaced families in Sudan amid escalating conflict

February 8, 2024

The UN High Commissioner for Refugees, Filippo Grandi, embarked on a poignant journey through Sudan, where he met with families torn apart by the devastating conflict ravaging the nation.

Displaced from their homes and livelihoods by the ongoing turmoil, these families are enduring unimaginable hardships in displacement camps scattered across the country.

With conflict engulfing Sudan for ten long months, the scale of displacement is staggering, with nearly 8 million people uprooted from their communities, both within Sudan's borders and beyond, seeking refuge in neighboring countries such as Chad, South Sudan, Egypt, Central African Republic, and Ethiopia.

The relentless violence has not only shattered lives but also brought Sudan's economy to its knees and crippled its once-thriving healthcare sector. Recent escalations in the conflict, including the seizure of Wad Madani, Sudan's second-largest city, by the Rapid Support Forces, have exacerbated the suffering of already vulnerable populations. Wad Madani had served as a sanctuary for hundreds of thousands fleeing violence in Khartoum and elsewhere, only to be displaced once again.

During his visit to Ethiopia and Sudan, Grandi bore witness to the harrowing realities faced by internally displaced families. In Port Sudan and Kassala, eastern Sudan, he listened to their stories, amplifying their voices and calling for urgent support from the international community.

The majority of displaced families find themselves confined to overcrowded displacement camps, relying on humanitarian aid and the solidarity of fellow Sudanese grappling with the same crisis. In states like Gedaref and Kassala, where displaced individuals continue to arrive from conflict-ridden areas, the need for assistance is dire.

UNHCR remains steadfast in its commitment to provide vital support to refugees and internally displaced persons (IDPs) across Sudan. Through counselling sessions, assistance with asylum procedures, resettlement options, legal and financial aid, and medical referrals, the agency strives to alleviate the suffering of those affected by the crisis.

In a stark statement, UNHCR underscored the dire humanitarian situation in Sudan, expressing grave concerns about the potential spread of violence to other parts of the country. As the conflict rages on, the plight of displaced families grows increasingly desperate, underscoring the urgent need for sustained international intervention and support.

Source: africanews.com

Please click the following URL to read the text of the original story

https://www.africanews.com/2024/02/07/unhcr-chief-visits-displaced-families-in-sudan-amid-escalating-conflict/

----

 

ECOWAS foreign ministers meet over Senegal, others

8th February 2024

West African foreign ministers hold emergency talks on Thursday confronted by a major political crisis in Senegal and weakened by disputes with military rulers in three coup-hit countries.

The Economic Community of West African States’ extraordinary session follows Senegalese President Macky Sall’s sudden decision to delay elections in the country, just a week after Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger Republic declared they were quitting the bloc.

The ECOWAS Mediation and Security Council said ministers would gather in Nigeria’s capital Abuja on Thursday to “discuss current security and political issues in the region.”

It was unclear on Wednesday whether any Senegalese minister would attend.

Baby Evangelists: Inside the word of 7-Year-Old And 4-Year-Old Content Creators | Punch0:00 / 0:00

ECOWAS has urged Senegal — one of its most stable member states — to return to its election timetable, but critics have already questioned the group’s sway over increasingly defiant member states.

The turmoil has also brought the almost 50-year-old bloc’s broader role into doubt — especially after its warning of military intervention in Niger last year fizzled out with no sign the country’s toppled president is closer to being restored.

Senegal’s troubles are a “new crisis ECOWAS doesn’t need,” Beninese political consultant, DjidenouKpoton, told AFP.

“Its powerlessness in the face of the situation is self-evident.”

Other analysts said they had confidence in the bloc’s long-term ability to deal with regional problems through mediation.

But with its reputation at stake, ECOWAS’s handling of the latest political upheaval is being closely watched.

– Choices in Senegal –

Senegal plunged into its worst political crisis in decades this weekend when President Sall announced he was postponing the February 25 vote just hours before campaigning was set to begin.

Lawmakers voted almost unanimously in favour of the delay on Monday night, but only after security forces stormed the chamber and removed some opposition members, who were unable to cast their votes.

Observers expressed concern that one of ECOWAS’s most influential and stable members was tearing up the rulebook, sparking violent protests and raising concerns about knock-on effects in the region.

In a statement late on Tuesday, ECOWAS cautioned Senegal against jeopardising “peace and stability” during difficult times for West Africa — but it was unclear what the bloc would do if President Sall defied its warning.

The wording was “very soft,” said Rama Dieng, a Senegalese lecturer in African Studies at Scotland’s University of Edinburgh.

She said ECOWAS was prepared to “issue statements but when it’s time to act and uphold the principles for which it was created, it doesn’t do anything.”

“Why aren’t they excluding Senegal?” she asked. “There were planned elections with a date set.”

“It does feel they are really powerless,” she said.

One power ECOWAS has at its disposal is imposing trade sanctions, as it has against Mali and Niger following recent coups.

But the sanctions have hit citizens hard and military regimes remain in place.

Late last month Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger, already suspended from ECOWAS, announced their joint withdrawal, worsening a diplomatic headache for the bloc.

According to a foreign ministry document seen by AFP on Wednesday, Mali has reaffirmed its exit “without delay,” saying it was not bound by the organisation’s one-year timeframe for leaving.

Experts also say that while Senegal may be playing with fire, it is still a long way off the stage where ECOWAS is likely to impose financial penalties.

“Sanctions cannot come in at this point,” Idayat Hassan of the US Center for Strategic and International Studies told AFP.

“What can come in is more mediation,” she said, expressing confidence in the power of the bloc’s backchannel diplomacy.

“ECOWAS is struggling, but it’s nothing new,” she said, arguing it was important to take a long-term view of the organisation, which was founded in 1975.

“West Africa used to be one of the most coup-prone regions in the world before democratic consolidation began to set in,” she said.

While Hassan said there had been a relatively recent reversal, she argued ECOWAS had proven “adaptable, resilient, and able to deal with most of these challenges.”

– Other options –

ECOWAS has intervened militarily in the past, including in The Gambia in 2017 when outgoing president Yahya Jammeh refused to step down after losing elections.

But University of Lagos politics lecturer Bamidele Olajide said it would “not be wise for anybody now to advance military action” in the region, expressing faith in ECOWAS diplomacy.

But he was among the experts AFP spoke to who said the bloc would have to adapt to resolve the recent slew of crises.

“It cannot be business as usual,” said Dieng, who called for a public consultation on the bloc’s role.

“We have to be very pragmatic,” she said. “If people think that ECOWAS doesn’t have a need to exist anymore… then do we still need ECOWAS?”

Source: punchng.com

Please click the following URL to read the text of the original story

https://punchng.com/ecowas-foreign-ministers-meet-over-senegal-others/

----

 

Nigeria needs unity to make progress – Kwankwasiyya leader

8th February 2024

Sunday Nwakanma

The need for a strong and united Nigeria for progress and development in the country has been emphasized.

The emphasis came from former presidential candidate and National Chairman of the Alliance National Party, Alhaji Mashood Shittu, while speaking in Umuahia, where he represented the governor of Kano State, Abba Kabir Yusuf, on the occasion of 66 years birthday celebration of an Umuahia-based business mogul, High Chief Uche James Akwukwaegbu, in his AmuzukwuIbeku, Umuahia country home.

Shittu, who is the Special Adviser to Governor Yusuf on External Affairs and leader of the Kwankwasiyya Movement in North Central, said, “It is not easy in Nigeria of today to live up to 66 years because of hardship.”

He averred that Akwukwaegbu living up to 66 years in present day Nigeria was as a result of his achievements, stating, “If he had lived a wasteful life, he may not be alive today, but he lived a peaceful and developed life, hence he has a rest of mind.”

THE ROUND TABLE: EFCC UNCOVERS RELIGIOUS SECT LAUNDERING MONEY FOR TERRORISTS0:00 / 0:00

Speaking on his impression of Abia State, Shittu said that this was his first time of visiting the state, adding, “I told my friends from far away that for Nigeria to evolve as a nation, it is only when we visit each other that you will see that we need to build that united bridge that we always preach.

“We have been sharing words about Nigeria, especially about the court case of NNPP, and all that I heard from the people here in Abia State was that NNPP is Kano, but they made it to be a national issue. The people of Umuahia are friendly.”

Speaking on the celebrant, Chief Akwukwaegbu, Shittu said, “He is worth the congratulatory message we are passing across to him. We have been friendly and enjoy good relationship with each other. We also remembered his relationship with Kwankwasiyya. I have come to represent the Kwankwasiya family here in Umuahia and to celebrate with him.

“He is a philanthropist, a man who has been generous. With the little I have seen here, with the present economic situation and living index, living up to 66 years in the country now is not easy, but with Chief Akwukwaegbu, you can see his impact on humanity, especially on his immediate environment and community and the state at large.

“His contributions to the development of this country means a lot to us, and that made us fly all the way from Abuja to Umuahia to support and celebrate with him on the auspicious occasion of his 66 years of age, as he contributed a lot to the development of Nigeria, and therefore a man that is worth celebrating at 66 years old.

“He is hardworking man and a man of integrity. I don’t know that Umuahia is so friendly and so peaceful, so accommodating indeed. I was so impressed and so grateful to the people of Abia State for their prayers and support and insistence that Kano must not be taken away from the NNPP because they know that we won the election.

“I was happy when I heard them here repeating same that we are all one. That means, when I go home, I will pass a strong message that we need to build a strong unity between ourselves as a nation in Nigeria.”

Representing the Abia State governor at the celebration was his Commissioner for Industry, Trade and Commerce, Chimezie Ukaegbu, who extolled the virtues of the celebrant, thanking him for being a philanthropist and for his immense contribution to many lives and the community in particular.”

National Secretary of Ibeku Youths Association, Chibuzor Onwukamuche, chairman of the occasion, Barr Okey Amaechi, SAN, the MD Federal Medical Centre, Umuahia, Prof Onyebuchi Azubuike, among others, expressed their happiness that the celebrant was a blessing to Ibeku community.

The occasion was marked by a church service and traditional dances.

Source: punchng.com

Please click the following URL to read the text of the original story

https://punchng.com/nigeria-needs-unity-to-make-progress-kwankwasiyya-leader/

-----

 

Adamawa Announces Over N4.6Million Hajj Fare For 2024, Nearly N2Million More Than 2023 Fare

February 7, 2024

Intending Muslim pilgrims in Adamawa State, Northeast Nigeria will pay N4.679 million to perform the 2024 Hajj, the state government has said.

The fare, which is more than the amount paid in 2023 by over N1.7 million, was announced in Yola, the state capital on Wednesday. In 2023, pilgrims were charged N2.89 million.

The Executive Secretary of Adamawa State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Commission, Abubakar Salihu said the new fare was influenced by several economic factors, among them an astronomical hike in operational expenses and the steady fall of the naira.

He said that the decision was made after a thorough consultation with relevant stakeholders.

"The commission is committed to providing the best possible services while ensuring transparency and accountability in the utilisation of the funds.

"Therefore, intending pilgrims should always adhere to the rules and regulations both in Nigeria and Saudi Arabia in order to enhance a hitch-free and successful pilgrimage," Salihu said.

Source: saharareporters.com

Please click the following URL to read the text of the original story

https://saharareporters.com/2024/02/07/adamawa-announces-over-n46million-hajj-fare-2024-nearly-n2million-more-2023-fare

----

 

20 Nasarawa ethnic groups reject Miyetti Allah’s security outfit

8th February 2024

Collins Agwam, Lafia

The Forum of Ethnic Youth Presidents in Nasarawa State, comprising no fewer than 20 ethnic groups, on Wednesday, rejected the Fulani Nomad Vigilante squad formed recently by the Miyetti Allah Kautal Hore.

The President of the Miyetti Allah, Abdullah Bodejo, inaugurated the 1,144-man Fulani vigilante team on January 17, 2024, saying the move was to tackle banditry, cattle rustling and others forms crimes in the state.

However, about a week after the inauguration, security agents, believed to be soldiers and operatives of the Department of State Services, arrested Bodejo on January 23 and whisked him away to an unknown destination.

On Tuesday, the Commissioner of Police in Nasarawa State, Shehu Nadada, said the police were not carried along in the formation of the Miyetti Allah security outfit.

On Wednesday, the Forum of Ethnic Youth Presidents urged the Federal Government to, as a matter of urgency, outlaw the newly-formed Miyetti Allah security outfit.

Addressing journalists, the president of the forum, Silas Yileni, said, “We oppose the setting up of any suspicious security agency that is not community-based to avoid a situation where they could be used as militia. As such, we call for the immediate proscription of the Bodejo’s vigilante group in Nasarawa State and Nigeria at large.

“We oppose the arming of private security organisations in Nasarawa State, especially given the peculiar security challenges facing Nigeria.”

Our correspondent reports that some of the ethnic nationalities standing against the formation of the nomad vigilante group in the state were Bassa, Migili, Alago, Eggon, Nimzo, Akye, Nyankpa, and Arum, among others.

Source: punchng.com

Please click the following URL to read the text of the original story

https://punchng.com/20-nasarawa-ethnic-groups-reject-miyetti-allahs-security-outfit/

-----

URL:    https://newageislam.com/islamic-world-news/yogi-adityanath-ayodhya-mathura-kashi/d/131680

New Age Islam, Islam Online, Islamic Website, African Muslim News, Arab World News, South Asia News, Indian Muslim News, World Muslim News, Women in Islam, Islamic Feminism, Arab Women, Women In Arab, Islamophobia in America, Muslim Women in West, Islam Women and Feminism