Allahabad HC Urges Cops to Ensure Prevention of Harassment Over Muslim Prayers in Private Spaces
New Age Islam News Bureau
06 February2026
· Allahabad HC Urges Cops to Ensure Prevention of Harassment Over Muslim Prayers in Private Spaces
· Malaysian Federal Territory Mufti Department: Non-Muslims can use Islamic phrases France,
· UK moves toward new law to ban Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps
· MAGA attorney general launches lawsuit to shut down the Council on American-Islamic Relations, the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights group
· UN warns Islamic State threat growing, situation urgent in West Africa, Sahel
· Pakistan Says Balochistan Operation Ends After 216 Militants Killed
· Iran, US to negotiate in Oman amid deep rifts and mounting war fears
· Third World Defense Show begins on Sunday in Riyadh
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India
· Hate crimes rise 74 per cent in 2024, Jamiat tells Supreme Court on hate speech cases
· India may raise Zakir Naik issue again during PM’s Malaysia visit
· Govt to bring hate speech law in budget session: Telangana CMA Revanth Reddy
· ‘Vote Jihad’: Minister Ravindra Jaiswal alleges 9,200 duplicate names in Varanasi
· ‘Be mindful’: Court questions Delhi Police over identifying accused in Turkman Gate case by ‘zooming in’ on video
· Omar Abdullah asks BJP if Muslim students will be allowed in proposed Jammu NLU
· Trump claims again that he stopped war between India, Pakistan
· Jamshedpur put on high alert after Interpol inputs indicate active terrorist cells presence
· UP Govt approves various projects for development of minority communities
· India's former envoy to UK YK Sinha categorically rejects any link to Jeffrey Epstein
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Southeast Asia
· Malaysia to deepen ‘sovereignty partnership’ in security, defence and energy, says French envoy
· NGO secretary remanded over RM4.2 million Gaza fund misappropriation
· Indonesia Sees Early 2026 Consumption Boost as Ramadan, Eid Fall in Q1: BPS
· EPF 2025 dividend expected between 5.5% to 6.3%, says analyst
· Pahang Sultan consents to rename UnIPSAS as Universiti Al‑Quran
· Malaysia Hindu Sangam slams parties fuelling racial tension, urges govt to protect heritage temples
· Anwar says economic growth meaningless if ordinary Malaysians do not feel it
· Malaysians advised to defer non-essential travel to Iran
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Europe
· UN warns of nuclear risk as New START treaty expires
· Starmer distances himself from former UK envoy linked to Epstein
· Mosque charity trustee avoids ban after social media post investigated
· NZ Muslim volunteers scour web for extremist content as Internal Affairs faces capacity constraints
· King Charles III hosts the Aga Khan V for private black tie dinner marking the anniversary of his accession
· Former Daghestani imam arrested over murder of second wife
· Watford mosque team 'delighted' after plan approved
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North America
· US blockade threatens ‘humanitarian collapse’ in Cuba – UN chief
· Trump comments on extending New START treaty
· Trump admits immigration crackdown needs ‘softer touch’ after deaths
· CAIR-NY Welcomes Arrest for Anti-Muslim Attacks in Bay Ridge, Says Incidents Result of ‘Alarming Rise in Anti-Muslim Hate’
· Washington and Moscow re-establish high-level military contacts – US command
· CAIR Condemns Reported Censorship at Medgar Evers Memorial in Mississippi
· CAIR, CAIR-Texas Dismiss Ken Paxton’s Latest Frivolous ‘Anti-Muslim Publicity Stunt’
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Africa
· They Still Don’t Know What Happened! – Trump Reveals Why He Ordered Sokoto Airstrike On Christmas Day
· Defence HQ Reveals Why Terrorists Carried Out Mass Killings In Kwara Community
· Abducted Kaduna Christians Regain Freedom
· Muslim Hands opens first school in Nigeria
· Drought a ‘ticking time bomb’ and humanitarian disaster, Muslim leaders warn
· Kwara Killings: Details Of Meeting Between Gov. Abdulrasaq And President Tinubu Emerge
· ‘For What Reason’ – Sheikh Gumi Opens Up On Arrest By US Troops
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South Asia
· UN Warns ISIS in Iraq and Afghanistan Remains Global Security Threat
· Concerns About Afghanistan's Security Are Unfounded: IEA
· A 36-page dream: Jamaat promises prosperity, but the math doesn’t add up
· Govt approves 6 ordinances, 3 proposals, Ramadan office timing
· LG Electronics partners with Transcom Electronics to expand distribution in Bangladesh
· Killing Of Osman Hadi: Govt decides to propose UN probe
· Presidential Address 2026: President announces 90 Islamic sector projects carried out in 2025; eight mosques to be inaugurated by Ramadan
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Mideast
· January settler attacks cause record West Bank displacement since October 2023: UN
· Activists plan new, bigger flotilla to try to bring aid to Gaza
· Syrian, Iraqi authorities seize 300,000 Captagon pills in Homs
· Palestinian president receives draft of constitution ahead of elections
· Syria, Russia discuss cooperation on railway development
· Questions around a compound of Shiite refugees from Syria in Lebanon show lingering post-Assad fears
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Arab World
· Saudi leadership sends cables of condolences after passing of former Jordanian prime minister
· Razan is a geotourism gem carved by time’s patient hands
· Little Farm: A countryside escape in the heart of Jeddah
· Saudi crown prince receives written message from Maldives president
· Saudi industry vice minister inspects Eastern Province hubs
· Michelin Guide announces 3 new awards at restaurant celebration in Riyadh
· Ziryab bridges Arab musical heritage with modern electronic sound
· Saudi culture minister attends Damascus International Book Fair 2026
Compiled by New Age Islam News Bureau
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Allahabad HC Urges Cops to Ensure Prevention of Harassment Over Muslim Prayers in Private Spaces
Feb 5, 2026
Mumbai: A recent Allahabad high court verdict allowing prayers on private premises without prior police nod has been welcomed by the Muslim community ahead of the month of Ramzan.
Citing the order that said "there is no need to take permission to hold a religious prayer meeting on private property", community leaders, clerics and activists urged police to discourage groups that might harass minorities for holding prayers even at private spaces.
Ramzan begins on Feb 18 and community members hold tarawih, special prayers at night during the month. Many fear some miscreants may try to harass worshipers by complaining to police about tarawih prayers, which are held at mosques, homes, rooftops, terraces and even parking lots.
In Jan, an FIR was filed against 12 men in Bareilly, UP, for praying at an empty house. Police had said there was no prior permission for holding the prayers at the place that was not a mosque.
"The high court order should serve as a warning to those who try to obstruct prayers at private places," said Maulana Mahmood Daryabadi of All India Ulema Council, an organisation of religious leaders.
Nasir Jamal, who has held tarawih prayers at his office rooftop for nearly three decades, said, "The court order should deter not just those who oppose prayers at private places but even those who use such congregational prayers to harass the community."
Maulana Burhanuddin Qasmi, director of Markazul Maarif Education and Research Centre, an Andheri-based think tank, recalled that a couple of years ago, a video of a tarawih namaz shot by a drone camera had gone viral. "There was a fear that Muslim prayers would be monitored and obstructed, but fortunately nothing happened," he said.
Many pointed out that Article 25 of the Constitution allows citizens the right "to freely profess, practise and propagate religion". "All citizens have the freedom to practise their religion. It is good that the court has given a positive verdict," said AIMIM leader Waris Pathan.
Bandra resident Asif Farooqui, who holds tarawih prayers at his office, said, "During Ramzan, Muslims traditionally become more pious and may offer prayers in groups or with families. Such peaceful and private practices should not warrant unnecessary legal action."
Source: indiatimes.com
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https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/mumbai/cops-urged-to-ensure-no-one-harassed-for-prayers-in-pvt-spaces/articleshowprint/127943215.cms
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Malaysian Federal Territory Mufti Department: Non-Muslims can use Islamic phrases France,
6 Feb 2026
“Using Islamic phrases in conversation is allowed as long as it does not undermine the sanctity of Islam, and is applied appropriately.
PETALING JAYA: Non-Muslims uttering Islamic phrases such as “Alhamdulillah”, “InshaAllah”, and “MasyaAllah” in daily conversations is generally permissible, provided it is done respectfully and in the correct context, according to the Federal Territory Mufti Department.
In a statement on their website, it explained that while these expressions hold deep religious significance for Muslims, their use by non-Muslims in everyday interactions does not constitute a violation of Islamic teachings as long as the phrases are not used to demean or insult the faith.
“Using Islamic phrases in conversation is allowed as long as it does not undermine the sanctity of Islam, and is applied appropriately.
“In Malaysia’s multicultural society, it is common for people of different faiths to adopt expressions from one another, either consciously or unconsciously, reflecting cultural and social interaction across communities.”
On Wednesday, PAS MP Datuk Siti Zailah Mohd Yusoff (PN-Rantau Panjang) had questioned Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming during the Dewan Rakyat sitting for using phrases commonly associated with Muslims, such as “Alhamdulillah” (praise be to God), saying it could confuse non-Muslims and appeared to trivialise the sanctity of Islam.
“You repeatedly used Islamic phrases in your speech, expressions of gratitude, Alhamdulillah. Do you truly believe in Allah? We do not want these words to be misused,” she said, adding that such use could touch on sensitive issues relating to religion, royalty, and race.
In response, Nga defended his choice of words, saying: “Such accusations are unfair. As a person of faith, I believe we should respect one another.
“Phrases like Alhamdulillah are Arabic words, and InshaAllah means ‘if God wills’. I used them to express gratitude.”
Nga also emphasised that the matter should not be blown out of proportion, cautioning that it could strain racial and religious harmony in the country.
Source: thesun.my
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https://thesun.my/news/malaysia-news/people-issues/non-muslims-can-use-islamic-phrases-respectfully/
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UK moves toward new law to ban Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps
Feb 5, 2026
As international criticism mounts over the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps' (IRGC) involvement in Tehran's fatal suppression of anti-government protests, the UK government reportedly set to introduce legislation that would enable it to officially outlaw the organisation.
The action comes after the European Union made the decision last month to put the IRGC to its official list of terrorist organisations, adding groups like Islamic State, Hamas, and al-Qaeda.
"If you act like a terrorist, you should also be treated as terrorists," said EU Foreign Affairs Chief Kaja Kallas in justification of the ruling. The announcement was described as a "stunt" by Iran's foreign minister, who also cautioned that it would be a "major strategic mistake."
The UK Home Office stated that it is developing new proscription legislation similar to that of terrorism, which would allow the government to ban hostile state organisations like the IRGC. Ministers have previously stated that current terrorism laws are insufficient to address this issue.
The proposed law would allow more targeted measures, including the ability for police to seize passports from individuals suspected of acting on behalf of the IRGC and to conduct stop-and-search operations without suspicion in high-threat situations or locations connected to hostile state activity, in contrast to current legislation that criminalises membership.
Operating separately from the regular army, the IRGC reports directly to Iran's supreme commander. Because of the legal and diplomatic complexity, government sources told The Times that the law has not yet been finalised. The rule will allow for "much stronger action on state-sponsored organisations like the IRGC," according to former home secretary Yvette Cooper.
The IRGC has already been labelled a terrorist group by the US, and others like Sweden and Canada have followed similarly. The action was made possible in large part by France's delayed decision to approve the EU designation. A spokesman for the UK government reaffirmed that the country "utterly condemns" Iran's use of violence against nonviolent protestors and warned that repression "cannot go unanswered."
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Source: tamilguardian.com
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https://www.tamilguardian.com/content/uk-moves-toward-new-law-ban-irans-irgc-amid-protest-crackdown
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MAGA attorney general launches lawsuit to shut down the Council on American-Islamic Relations, the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights group
Eleanor Klibanoff, Texas Tribune
February 5, 2026
Texas flag. (Photo credit: Svet foto / Shutterstock)
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Attorney General Ken Paxton asks judge to shut down Muslim advocacy group CAIR
Attorney General Ken Paxton on Thursday sued the Council on American-Islamic Relations, the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights group, and the Muslim Brotherhood, an international Sunni Muslim group, alleging they are working in concert as a “radical terrorist organization that exists to usurp governmental power and establish dominion through Sharia law.”
In the lawsuit, filed in state court in Collin County, Paxton asks a judge to declare that CAIR is a foreign terrorist organization and transnational criminal organization, and prohibit them from operating in the state, including cutting off their fundraising.
This is the latest in a flurry of probes and lawsuits into CAIR and other Muslim groups by Republican elected officials, in Texas and nationally, amid a surge in Islamophobia.
CAIR asserts that they are being targeted for their opposition to Israel over the war in Gaza, and said in a statement that the group would continue to operate in Texas despite these lawsuits and investigations.
“We have also defeated Greg Abbott's attacks on the Constitution three different times in a row,” a spokesperson said in a statement. “We look forward to doing so again.”
The background: CAIR has been a leading voice in defending pro-Palestinian protesters and pushing back on policies that discriminate against people who oppose Israel. This has put them in the crosshairs of pro-Israel Republican elected officials, who have ramped up anti-Muslim rhetoric in the last year, especially on the campaign trail.
In recent months, state and federal authorities launched investigations into the East Plano Islamic Center, a planned development centered around a mosque. The developers say the community is open to anyone, regardless of religion. The Department of Justice closed its investigation without taking action; Paxton filed a securities lawsuit, despite pushback from the Texas State Securities Board.
In November, Abbott declared CAIR and the Muslim Brotherhood as foreign terrorist organizations and transnational criminal organizations, and last month called on Paxton to take legal action.
What Texas says: In Paxton’s lawsuit, he reasserts Abbott’s argument that CAIR is a covert operation of the Muslim Brotherhood, a “radical terrorist organization that exists to usurp governmental power and establish dominion through Sharia law.”
Paxton points to CAIR’s support of the 2024 student protests at the University of Texas at Austin over the war in Gaza, equating it to a Hamas program that pays stipends to families of terrorists killed carrying out attacks on Israeli citizens.
The lawsuit asks the judge to affirm Abbott’s declaration that the group is a terrorist organization and transnational criminal organization, and enforce the penalties associated with that designation, including prohibiting the group from owning property, fundraising or recruiting new members.
In a statement, Paxton said that “jihadists who follow sharia law have no business being in Texas.”
“It’s imperative that they are stopped from operating in Texas,” he said. “Radical Islamic terrorists are antithetical to law and order, endanger the people of Texas, and are an existential threat to our values.”
What CAIR says: CAIR denies any wrongdoing. The group says they follow all laws, and exist solely to enhance understanding of Islam, protect civil rights, promote justice, and empower American Muslims.
Paxton’s latest lawsuit, they say, is “late, noting that they have already sued in federal court to block Abbott’s proclamation declaring the group to be a terrorist organization. That lawsuit has yet to be decided.
“Just as Mr. Paxton's attempt to shut down a Latino voting rights group failed last week, his latest attempt to target our civil rights group is also doomed to fail,” a spokesperson said. “The people of Texas elected Mr. Paxton to serve them, not to silence Texans who dared to oppose Israel's genocide in Gaza.”
Source: rawstory.com
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https://www.rawstory.com/ken-paxton-2675103994/
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UN warns Islamic State threat growing, situation urgent in West Africa, Sahel
06 February 2026
In the Lake Chad Basin, Zouev said that the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) has further expanded its prominence
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Copyright © africanews
Copyright 2018 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.
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Acting Undersecretary-General of the U.N. Office of Counter-Terrorism Alexandre Zouev told the Security Council on Wednesday that the threat posed by the Islamic State group has increased steadily and remains multipolar and increasingly complex, with the situation in West Africa and the Sahel especially urgent.
"The group and its affiliates continued to adapt and demonstrate resilience despite sustained counter‑terrorism pressure," said Zouev. "The group continued to recruit foreign terrorist fighters, and to enhance their use of new and emerging technologies."
The group has also been able to maintain access to funding streams through opportunistic fund‑raising, unlawful taxation, and kidnapping for ransom, according to Zouev.
In the Lake Chad Basin, Zouev said that the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) has further expanded its prominence.
In the Middle East, he says the group remains active in Iraq and the Syrian Arab Republic, with continued attacks and renewed efforts to destabilize local authorities.
In the Syrian Arab Republic, the security situation remains very fragile, he says.
Natalia Gherman, executive director of the Counter-Terrorism Committee Executive Directorate, said that amid vast changes across the United Nations system, the shared goal of preserving international peace and security must remain.
"The efforts of the United Nations to address Da’esh threat are critical," said Gherman. "These efforts require adequate resources and the cooperation of all Member States to achieve our shared goal; a world free from terrorism.”
Source: africanews.com
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https://www.africanews.com/2026/02/05/un-warns-islamic-state-threat-growing-situation-urgent-in-west-africa-sahel/
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Pakistan Says Balochistan Operation Ends After 216 Militants Killed
By Fidel Rahmati
February 5, 2026
Pakistan’s military says operations in Balochistan ended after intense fighting, killing hundreds of militants and weakening networks threatening civilians and regional security.
Pakistan’s army announced the end of a major security operation in Balochistan, saying 216 militants were killed during coordinated actions against armed groups.
The military claimed the militants posed an imminent threat to civilians and alleged that the fighters were backed by India, an accusation New Delhi has repeatedly denied.
According to the army statement, clearance operations significantly weakened militant networks, while forces seized large stockpiles of weapons, ammunition, explosives, and foreign-origin military equipment.
Security officials say the operation followed coordinated attacks by Baloch separatist fighters across multiple districts, which killed 22 soldiers and at least 36 civilians.
Images released after the clashes showed militants using advanced weapons, while investigations indicated some American-made arms traced back to Afghan security force stockpiles later surfaced among militant groups operating in Pakistan’s Balochistan region, raising regional security concerns.
Authorities say security forces will continue intelligence-based operations to prevent militant regrouping, while regional tensions over insurgent violence and cross-border accusations remain high.
Source: khaama.com
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https://www.khaama.com/pakistan-says-balochistan-operation-ends-after-216-militants-killed/
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Iran, US to negotiate in Oman amid deep rifts and mounting war fears
February 06, 2026
DUBAI/WASHINGTON: Iran and the United States are set to hold high-stakes negotiations in Oman on Friday over Tehran’s nuclear program, but a dispute over the agenda suggests progress will be hard won amid the threat of a regional Middle East war.
While both sides have signaled readiness to revive diplomacy over Tehran’s long-running nuclear dispute with the West, Washington wants the talks to cover Iran’s nuclear program, its ballistic missiles, support for armed groups around the region and its “treatment of their own people,” US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said on Wednesday.
Iran has said it wants Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and US Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff to discuss only nuclear issues in Muscat.
Tehran said it will engage in the talks “with authority and with the aim of reaching a fair, mutually acceptable and dignified ?understanding on the ?nuclear issue.” “We hope the American side will also participate in this process with ?responsibility, ?realism and seriousness,” ?Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmail Baghaei said on Thursday.
Tehran’s leadership remains deeply concerned that US President Donald Trump may still carry out his threats to strike Iran amid a buildup by the US Navy near Iran.
The US naval buildup, which Trump has called a massive “armada”, has followed a bloody government crackdown on nationwide protests in Iran last month, heightening tensions between Washington and Tehran.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt on Thursday told reporters that Trump was looking to determine whether a deal can be struck but also issued a warning.
“While these negotiations are taking place, I would remind the Iranian regime that ?the president has many options at his disposal, aside from diplomacy as the commander in chief of the most powerful military in the history of the ?world,” she added.
Trump has warned that “bad things” would probably happen if a ?deal could not be reached, ratcheting up pressure ?on the Islamic Republic in a standoff that has led to mutual threats of airstrikes.
Iran has warned it would ?respond harshly to any military strike and has cautioned neighboring countries hosting US bases that they could be in the firing line if they were involved in an attack.
“It’s very difficult to see them conceding enough in talks tomorrow for the US credibly to be able to claim that it’s made a breakthrough. And this is where I think, military conflict is more likely than not,” Edmund Fitton-Brown, senior fellow at Washington-based think-tank FDD, said.
Uranium enrichment
Negotiators in Oman will have to navigate Iran’s red line on discussing its missile program to reach a deal and avert future ?military action. Tehran has flatly ruled out talks on its “defense capabilities, including missiles and their range.”
Hours before the talks, Iran’s state TV said that “one of the country’s most advanced long-range ballistic missile Khorramshahr 4” has been deployed at one of the Revolutionary Guards’ vast underground missile complexes.
However, Tehran is willing to show “flexibility on uranium enrichment, including handing over 400 kg of highly enriched uranium (HEU) and accepting zero enrichment under a consortium arrangement as a solution,” Iranian officials told Reuters last week. Iran also insists that its right to enrich uranium is not negotiable.
Iran says its nuclear activities are meant for peaceful, not military purposes, while the US and Israel have accused it of past efforts to develop nuclear weapons.
In June, the United States struck Iranian nuclear targets, joining in the final stages of a 12-day Israeli bombing campaign. Tehran has since said its uranium enrichment work has stopped.
Tehran’s influence throughout the region has been severely weakened by Israel’s attacks on its regional ?allies — known as the “Axis of Resistance” – from Hamas in Gaza to Hezbollah in Lebanon, the Houthis in Yemen and militias in Iraq – as well as by the ousting of Iran’s close ally, Syrian dictator Bashar Assad.
Source: arabnews.com
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https://www.arabnews.com/node/2631924/middle-east
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Third World Defense Show begins on Sunday in Riyadh
February 05, 2026
RIYADH: The General Authority for Military Industries will organize the third World Defense Show in Riyadh from Feb. 8-12, bringing together official delegations, government entities, and leading international companies specializing in the defense and security sectors, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Thursday.
GAMI Governor Ahmad Al-Ohali said that the event, under the patronage of King Salman, reflected the Kingdom’s commitment to innovation, localization, and the development of an integrated defense ecosystem through platforms that united government bodies with international partners.
He said that the show would feature a comprehensive program, including live air and land demonstrations, static displays and newly developed zones, enhancing opportunities for partnership and integration between Saudi government entities and major national and global defense companies.
The show supported efforts to localize more than 50 percent of military spending, in line with Vision 2030, while also contributing to higher operational readiness and strengthening the Kingdom’s strategic independence in the defense sector, he said.
World Defense Show CEO Andrew Pearcey said that the exhibition featured a fully equipped airport with a 2,700-meter runway, four taxiways, and expansive display areas showcasing the latest aircraft, underscoring the show’s status as a leading global defense event capable of hosting world-class integrated displays.
The WDS is expected to see participation surpassing that of the previous event, reflecting continued growth in exhibitor numbers, official delegations, and international engagement.
Source: arabnews.com
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https://www.arabnews.com/node/2631895/saudi-arabia
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India
Hate crimes rise 74 per cent in 2024, Jamiat tells Supreme Court on hate speech cases
06.02.26
The Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind has told the Supreme Court that there was a 74 per cent rise in hate crimes in India in 2024, of which 98 per cent were against Muslims.
The Jamiat also assailed hate speeches allegedly delivered by Assam chief minister Himanta Biswa Sarma.
Quoting a survey conducted by India Hate Lab Report, the Jamiat told the top court that hate speech incidents against Muslim and Christian minorities rose from 668 in 2023 to 1,165 in 2024 — a 74 per cent increase.
"Nearly 98% of these incidents targeted Muslims, either alone or alongside Christians. The report records that on average, three hate speech events occurred per day, with 22.2% events making explicit calls for violence and 23.5% calling for seizure, removal or destruction of places of worship owned by Muslims or Christians," the Jamiat said.
"The report highlights that a huge number of 995 out of the total 1,165 hate speech events in 2024 were shared and live-streamed publicly on social media platforms," senior advocate M.R. Shamshad, representing Jamiat, said in his submission to the court.
The submissions were in the context of the Supreme Court examining fresh guidelines to curb incidents of hate crimes. Several individuals and organisations had earlier moved the top court complaining about police's failure to enforce laws dealing with hate crimes despite earlier directions by the Supreme Court.
"To be more specific, apart from denigrating the religious tenets of communities, dominant public voices are frequently found branding a section of citizens, predominantly Muslims, as jallads, ghuspaithiyas, anti-nationals, jihadis, mullahs, ghaddar, atankis, sleeper cells, stone-pelters, mian, katua, and similar expressions.
"Apart from innumerable similar speeches in the past from personalities holding constitutional positions, even after the conclusion of the hearing in the present batch of matters, on 27.01.2026 the chief minister of Assam while addressing a public gathering made statements that 4 to 5 lakh Miyan voters would be removed from SIR by stating that he (Himanta) and the BJP are directly against Miyas. Miya is indicated to address Muslims in derogatory terms. This is not the first instance or the last coming from the persons holding such positions," the petition stated.
Source: telegraphindia.com
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https://www.telegraphindia.com/india/hate-crimes-up-74-per-cent-in-2024-jamiat-tells-supreme-court-seeks-curbs-on-hate-speech-prnt/cid/2146025
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India may raise Zakir Naik issue again during PM’s Malaysia visit
Feb 6, 2026
While India and Malaysia will look to ramp up trade and defence ties during PM Narendra Modi’s visit to Kuala Lumpur over the weekend, the issue of fugitive Zakir Naik’s extradition is also likely to be raised by the Indian side. The visit is likely to see signing of several MoUs, including one for cooperation with Malaysia’s thriving semiconductor industry.
“We have had opportunities to discuss the issue in past visits also at various levels. And, we will probably continue to take up the issue until all technical procedures are completed, and we hope to get the outcome that we desire,” said MEA secretary (east) P Kumaran, responding to a question about Naik.
India and Malaysia have an extradition treaty, but the case, as Malaysia maintains, will be resolved based on judicial consideration. The official said that Modi and his counterpart Anwar Ibrahim will review progress under the India-Malaysia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, especially in priority areas of cooperation such as trade, investments, defence, security, semiconductors, digital technologies, renewable energy, education, healthcare, and people-to-people exchanges.
Kumaran also underlined the potential for defence cooperation between the two countries, saying that India is looking at sale of Dornier aircraft to Malaysia. “Malaysia also has Scorpene submarines. We are looking at opportunities to try and collaborate, especially in terms of mid-life upgrades, retrofitting etc,” said the official.
Source: indiatimes.com
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https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/india-may-raise-zakir-naik-issue-again-during-pms-malaysia-visit/articleshowprint/127961906.cms
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Govt to bring hate speech law in budget session: Telangana CMA Revanth Reddy
Feb 6, 2026
Hyderabad: Signalling a tougher stand against divisive rhetoric, chief minister A Revanth Reddy on Thursday said the state govt would introduce separate legislation on hate speech in the upcoming assembly budget session, stressing the need to prevent targeting of minorities.
Addressing the Jamiat Ulama Telangana consultative meeting at Shamshabad, the CM said the proposed law would be on the lines of the Karnataka govt's Hate Speech and Hate Crime (Prevention) Bill, 2025. He said such a legal framework was necessary to ensure social harmony and protect vulnerable communities.
Revanth reiterated that the Congress govt accorded top priority to minorities and recalled that it was the Congress, under then chief minister YS Rajasekhara Reddy, that introduced 4% reservations for Muslim minorities — a matter currently pending before the Supreme Court. "As and when required, the state govt would provide the details of the minorities to the apex court," he said.
The chief minister's remarks came a day after BJP national president Nitin Nabin accused the Congress govt of appeasing minorities while ignoring the interests of Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes and Backward Classes, by cutting funds meant for their welfare, at his Mahbubnagar meeting on Wednesday. The BJP charged the Revanth govt with pursuing selective policies for political gain, an allegation the Congress has rejected, setting the stage for a sharp political confrontation ahead of the municipal elections.
CM seeks Muslim support
Referring to the Feb 11 municipal elections, the CM sought the support of Muslim minorities, saying it was their responsibility to ensure the victory of Congress candidates. He said the party came to power in Telangana with the backing of minorities.
"The Congress made eight minority leaders chairmen of state corporations and even made Mohammed Azaharuddin a minister and gave tickets to Muslim minorities," he said.
The CM underlined that development depended on unity among communities and strong law and order. He said investments would flow into the state only when peace prevailed and all religions and sections of society moved forward together.
Source: indiatimes.com
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https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/hyderabad/govt-to-bring-hate-speech-law-in-budget-session-cm/articleshowprint/127952178.cms
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‘Vote Jihad’: Minister Ravindra Jaiswal alleges 9,200 duplicate names in Varanasi
February 5, 2026
During the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process of the voter list in Uttar Pradesh, Minister of State for Stamp and Court Registration Fees (Independent Charge) Ravindra Jaiswal leveled a serious allegation of ‘vote jihad’ on Thursday.
He claimed that when his party workers meticulously examined the voter list in his North Assembly constituency, they found the names of approximately 9,200 people registered more than once (two, three, four, or even more times). He alleged that most of these names belonged to a particular community.
He met with District Magistrate Satyendra Kumar to file a complaint and submitted the relevant list.
The minister said, “After the new voter list was released, our workers went door-to-door for verification. We have all the data as proof — both on pen drives and in hard copy. The names of several girls were found to be registered at both their parental and marital homes. This is all a game played by Rahul Gandhi’s party.”
He further added, “I have handed over the list of these 9,200 names to the District Magistrate. These should be verified. My constituency has one lakh ten thousand votes, and despite that, such a major irregularity has come to light. The Booth Level Officer (BLO) also found that the names of a father’s four daughters were registered at both their parental and marital homes. The workers have verified this by visiting both locations. We have been working on this issue for a month. A detailed report has been prepared showing how many names appeared two, three, four, or five times at various booths.”
Calling it ‘vote jihad’, Ravindra Jaiswal said, “The Opposition has deliberately orchestrated this. It is a conspiracy to prevent nationalism by casting votes two or three times. This is a jihad of voting.”
District Magistrate Satyendra Kumar stated that BJP MLA and Minister Ravindra Jaiswal has raised some objections regarding the new voter list. The issue of duplicate names at different booths has come to light. He said, “An investigation is being conducted. Only after the investigation will it be possible to comment clearly on the entire matter. Appropriate action will be taken.”
Source: thestatesman.com
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‘Be mindful’: Court questions Delhi Police over identifying accused in Turkman Gate case by ‘zooming in’ on video
by: Nirbhay Thakur
Feb 6, 2026
A Delhi court hearing the bail pleas of three accused in last month’s violence over the demolition of illegal structures near the Faiz-e-Ilahi mosque in the Turkman Gate area asked police on Thursday to be “mindful” about basing their accusations on video footage zoomed in on faces.
All nine accused, including the three whose bail applications were being heard, have claimed that faces are not clearly visible in video that police have relied on. The hearing will continue on Friday.
‘Roz ka kaam hai’
After the Investigating Officer (IO) submitted that “our head constable took the video from the spot”, Additional Sessions Judge Bhupinder Singh of Tis Hazari Court asked: “How did you identify the accused? FRS (Facial Recognition System) use kiya ya kaise kiya? (Did you use face recognition technology or something else?)”
The IO responded that the accused were identified by zooming into their faces and not by using FRS. “Yeh hamara roz ka kaam hai sir,” he said. The IO clarified that the accused persons have no criminal antecedents.
“Be mindful,” the judge cautioned. “Jo likha hai ussi basis pe statement dena. Kal ko change mat karna… (Give your statement on the basis of what you have written. Don’t change your statement later.)”
After counsel for accused submitted that the video wasn’t clear, the IO showed the zoomed-in footage to the judge.
Most of the nine accused whose pleas for bail are pending before ASJ Singh have claimed that their faces are not clearly visible in the footage; that they have no prima facie connection with the stone-pelting and there is no footage or photograph that confirms their active participation in the clash; and that they live close by, and had gone out only to check on a member of the family or to see what the commotion was about, and did not join the mob.
The third argument specifically has been made by all three accused whose bail pleas are before the court.
Police have filed detailed replies on seven of the nine pending pleas. They have claimed that all seven are “clearly visible” in videos of the clash, and that the call data records (CDRs) of six confirm their presence at the spot.
The main evidence that police have relied upon is video footage, CDRs of the accused persons, chats recovered from their seized mobile phones, and statements of eyewitnesses, who are police officers who were present at the spot.
According to police, one of the accused persons had allegedly shared videos of the demolition on a WhatsApp group, another had shared a video on Snapchat that allegedly shows his involvement in the crime, and a third had allegedly posted four “instigating” audio messages on a WhatsApp group.
Turkman Gate Demolition
Early on January 7, the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) had used bulldozers to raze encroachments around the Masjid & Dargah Syed Faiz-e-Ilahi adjacent to Ramlila Maidan. The MCD action, which came within hours of the Delhi High Court rejecting a plea for an interim stay on the demolition, triggered violence; people of the area allegedly threw stones, and police responded with mild tear gas.
Only one of the 20 people arrested in connection with the violence has been granted bail so far.
Source: indianexpress.com
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https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/delhi/court-delhi-police-over-identifying-accused-turkman-gate-case-zooming-video-10516467/
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Omar Abdullah asks BJP if Muslim students will be allowed in proposed Jammu NLU
Muzaffar Raina
06.02.26
Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Omar Abdullah on Thursday asked the BJP legislators pressing for a National Law University in Jammu to clarify whether they would allow Muslim students to study there if they dominated the merit list, recalling that a medical college had recently been shut on similar grounds.
Omar urged the BJP MLAs to seek minority status for the closed medical college, which would allow Hindus to get a fairly large share of seats, arguing the money spent on it would not go to waste and the doctors, irrespective of their faith, would not differentiate patients from different religions.
The BJP legislators did not reply to Omar’s question, although they echoed the call for an NLU in both Kashmir and Jammu. The BJP had earlier favoured an NLU in Jammu but made amends in its call after facing criticism that there were no protests in the Valley when Jammu got both an IIT and an IIM in 2016.
Omar on Thursday framed the question as a moral issue, asking whether Muslims will be allowed to study if Jammu gets an NLU. He said that when BJP legislators have nothing to offer, they talk about discrimination against Jammu.
“Discrimination happened when you shut down a medical college. I am surprised, Mr Speaker, that in other states people struggle for a medical college. But these people got a medical college closed only because a majority of students were Muslims,” he said, referring to the closure of Mata Vaishno Devi Medical College where Muslim students had dominated the merit list.
“...Now they say give us a National Law University. NLU admissions are also made on merit. How can I accept that if the majority of students were Muslims in Jammu’s NLU, they will (not) get it closed and distribute sweets and celebrate (the way it happened when the medical college was shut)?” Omar said.
Source: telegraphindia.com
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https://www.telegraphindia.com/india/omar-abdullah-questions-bjp-on-jammu-nlu-asks-if-muslim-students-will-be-allowed-prnt/cid/2146026
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Trump claims again that he stopped war between India, Pakistan
06 Feb 2026
US President Donald Trump on Thursday once again asserted that his administration had prevented a war between India and Pakistan last year, repeating a claim that New Delhi has consistently rejected.
Speaking at the National Prayer Breakfast, Trump said he had “ended eight raging wars” within a year, listing among them conflicts between Cambodia and Thailand, Kosovo and Serbia, Armenia and Azerbaijan, and India and Pakistan.
Later, in a post on Truth Social, Trump reiterated the claim that he stopped a nuclear war from breaking out between India and Pakistan.
"The United States is the most powerful Country in the World. I completely rebuilt its Military in my First Term, including new and many refurbished nuclear weapons. I also added Space Force and now, continue to rebuild our Military at levels never seen before.
We are even adding Battleships, which are 100 times more powerful than the ones that roamed the Seas during World War II -- The Iowa, Missouri, Alabama, and others.
I have stopped Nuclear Wars from breaking out across the World between Pakistan and India, Iran and Israel, and Russia and Ukraine," Trump posted.
The US President has made the claim more than 90 times across public speeches and social media platforms.
The assertions date back to May 10 last year, when Trump announced that India and Pakistan had agreed to a “full and immediate” ceasefire following what he described as overnight talks mediated by Washington.
India, however, has repeatedly denied any third-party mediation, maintaining that all issues with Pakistan are addressed bilaterally.
New Delhi has emphasised that the ceasefire understanding along the Line of Control was the result of direct engagement between the two countries, without external involvement.
Pakistan, on the other hand, has welcomed US engagement in the region in the past, though it has not provided specific details corroborating Trump’s claims.
Source: newindianexpress.com
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https://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/2026/Feb/06/trump-claims-again-that-he-stopped-war-between-india-pakistan-2
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Jamshedpur put on high alert after Interpol inputs indicate active terrorist cells presence
Mukesh Ranjan
05 Feb 2026
RANCHI: Following an alert issued by Interpol regarding a possible terror threat, the district administration in the industrial city of Jamshedpur has been put on alert.
The district police, the Intelligence Bureau (IB) and other intelligence agencies have been instructed to remain vigilant.
Acting on the international intelligence input, police and administrative authorities have stepped up monitoring at sensitive locations, vital installations and crowded public places across the city.
According to the information received from the sources, more than a dozen sleeper cells are suspected to be active in Jamshedpur.
Reportedly, these cells have direct or indirect links to Pakistan, and a few individuals have even received terrorist training.
Sources informed that Syed Mohammad Arshiyan, a resident of Jamshedpur, is said to be the leader of this network.
Arshiyan has been absconding for the past seven to eight years. NIA and ATS teams have visited Jamshedpur several times searching for him.
Based on the recommendations of the investigating agencies, Interpol has issued a Red Corner Notice against him, intensifying the search for him internationally.
Sources believe that Arshiyan is leading a local network in Jamshedpur and is allegedly involved in radicalising and recruiting youth.
Security agencies continue to monitor the situation closely, while investigations are underway to neutralise any potential threat.
While specific details of the Interpol alert have not been disclosed for security reasons, officials stressed that the overall situation remains under control.
The administration has asked people to remain alert, cooperate with security personnel, and immediately report any suspicious activity to the authorities.
Reiterating its commitment to maintaining law and order, district officials assured that all necessary measures are being taken to ensure the safety and security of residents.
Notably, Jamshedpur has been in the news earlier also in connection with cases related to terrorist networks. Mohammed Kalimuddin Mujahiri, a wanted member of the banned 'Al-Qaeda in Indian Subcontinent' (AQIS), was arrested in Jamshedpur in 2019.
Kalimuddin had been a close associate of Abdul Rahman Katki, who was arrested in 2016 from a Cuttack madrassa where 70 boys from Jharkhand studied.
Kalimuddin, during interrogation, also revealed that he recruited several people after inspiring them for jihad, out of which some are in jail, while some are getting trained in foreign countries.
Arshiyan and his brother, Mohammad Zeeshan, were also linked to this network. Zeeshan is currently imprisoned in a Delhi jail.
Source: newindianexpress.com
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https://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/2026/Feb/05/jamshedpur-put-on-high-alert-after-interpol-inputs-indicate-active-terrorist-cells-presence
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UP Govt approves various projects for development of minority communities
Feb 6, 2026
Uttar Pradesh Various is implementing various schemes for the development of minorities through the Pradhanmantri Jan Vikas Karyakram (PMJVK).
Under this program, projects worth approximately Rs 364 crore have been approved for the development of minority communities in the state, including Sikhs, Jains, Buddhists, and Muslims. These projects are related to sectors such as education, health, skill development, sports, women & child welfare, and urban development.
In this context, Rs 114.14 crore have been approved for 10 different projects of the Health Department. Similarly, projects worth Rs 12.78 crore for secondary education, Rs 42.53 crore for technical education, Rs 27.88 crore for medical education, and Rs 25.02 crore for vocational education have been approved.
Additionally, Rs 24.98 crore have been approved for a project of the Unani Department.
For the skill development of the youth belonging to the minority communities in the state, Rs 5.92 crore have been approved under PMJVK, while projects worth Rs 64.22 crore of the Sports and Youth Welfare Department have been approved for physical and sports capacity development.
Approximately Rs 7.79 crore have been approved for welfare and child development projects related to women. For the development of urban facilities in minority-concentrated areas of the state, Rs 22.12 crore have been approved for six projects under the Urban Development Department.
In rural areas, Rs 3.94 crore have been approved for two projects of the Panchayati Raj Department. Projects worth Rs 10.15 crore of the Agriculture & Cooperation Department and Rs 1.92 crore of the Dairy Development Department have also been approved.
The successful implementation of these projects under the PMJVK program of the Central Government is strengthening the overall development of minority communities in the state, while also reinforcing Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s vision of inclusive development.
Source: indianexpress.com
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https://indianexpress.com/article/brand-initiative/up-govt-approves-various-projects-for-development-of-minority-communities-10517022/
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India's former envoy to UK YK Sinha categorically rejects any link to Jeffrey Epstein
05.02.26
India's former high commissioner to the UK, Yashvardhan Kumar Sinha, on Thursday categorically denied any link to controversial financier Jeffrey Epstein.
Sinha issued a brief statement after some posts circulating on social media linked Epstein to one Y K Sinha.
"It has come to my notice that there are some tweets circulating on social media linking a Y K Sinha to the ghastly and condemnable activities at Epstein Island.
"I was a high commissioner of India to the UK, from 2016 till 2018. The person mentioned in the tweet is not me, and I categorically deny any links with Jeffrey Epstein," he said in the statement.
Epstein has grabbed global headlines due to the infamous Epstein files.
The files are thousands of pages of documents related to two criminal investigations into sex trafficking by financier Jeffrey Epstein and his accomplice Ghislaine Maxwell, including travel logs, recordings, and emails, which have been a topic of conversation since Epstein died in custody in 2019.
Source: telegraphindia.com
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Southeast Asia
Malaysia to deepen ‘sovereignty partnership’ in security, defence and energy, says French envoy
06 Feb 2026
KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 6 — France and Malaysia are set to elevate bilateral ties through a deepening “sovereignty partnership” aimed at strengthening strategic autonomy in security, defence and emerging energy sectors.
French Ambassador to Malaysia Marc Abensour said the partnership seeks to enhance the resilience and strategic autonomy of both countries amid growing global technological and security challenges.
“When you develop capabilities to ensure your own security and defence, you gain in terms of sovereignty and autonomy. France has a long-standing relationship with Malaysia in these sectors, and we want to develop it further,” he said.
The ambassador was speaking at the “French Security Days Asean 2026 – Malaysia”, which brought together a delegation of French companies for a presentation at his residence here on Thursday.
Organised by Business France, the “French Security Days Asean 2026 – Malaysia” served as a strategic platform for French security and cybersecurity firms to showcase their latest technologies and explore potential industrial partnerships with Malaysian stakeholders during their two-day official visit.
It featured introductory presentations by participating companies, followed by a networking session.
Beyond traditional defence cooperation, Abensour said bilateral ties are expanding into the energy transition and the critical minerals sector.
He said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s visit to France last July opened avenues for cooperation in civilian nuclear energy and the Asean power grid.
“France produces more than 70 per cent of its electricity from nuclear energy. We can share expertise on nuclear safety and how to manage such programmes inclusively with the local population,” he said.
Abensour also cited a recent agreement between Malaysian firm Malaco Mining Sdn Bhd and French company Carester on critical minerals as an example of technology transfer that supports Malaysia’s move up the global value chain while complying with environmental, social and governance (ESG) standards.
Meanwhile, Director of Business France Malaysia and Commercial Counsellor of the French Embassy, Jean-François Ambrosio, said long-established companies such as Airbus and Sergi have operated in Malaysia for decades, with newer firms also eyeing the country as a strategic regional hub.
“Most of these companies are exploring opportunities and considering setting up subsidiaries here. Our next step is to help them find local partners and clients to establish a long-term strategy in Malaysia,” he said. — Bernama
Source: malaymail.com
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NGO secretary remanded over RM4.2 million Gaza fund misappropriation
5 Feb 2026
A humanitarian NGO secretary is remanded for three days over alleged abuse of power and misappropriation of RM4.2 million in public donations.
KUALA LUMPUR: A secretary of a non-governmental organisation involved in Gaza humanitarian work has been remanded for three days. The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission is investigating allegations of abuse of power and misappropriation of approximately RM4.2 million.
Magistrate Ezrene Zakariah issued the remand order at the Putrajaya Magistrate’s Court. The suspect, a man in his 40s, was arrested yesterday while giving a statement at the MACC headquarters in Putrajaya.
Initial investigations found the suspect, who also owns a food company, allegedly approved and transferred the NGO’s funds into two other company accounts. The funds were purportedly transferred for investment purposes where individuals in the NGO’s management are believed to have interests.
The alleged acts were committed between 2022 and 2024. The investigation is focusing on the element of embezzlement of public funds as the NGO received public donations for its humanitarian missions.
MACC Anti-Money Laundering Division director Datuk Norhaizam Muhammad confirmed the arrest. The case is being investigated under Section 23 of the MACC Act 2009.
Source: thesun.my
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https://thesun.my/news/malaysia-news/people-issues/ngo-secretary-remanded-over-rm4-2-million-gaza-fund-misappropriation/
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Indonesia Sees Early 2026 Consumption Boost as Ramadan, Eid Fall in Q1: BPS
Ria Fortuna Wijaya
February 6, 2026
Jakarta. Indonesia’s solid economic performance in 2025 is poised to gain early-year support in 2026 as Ramadan, Eid al-Fitr, and the post-holiday period fall entirely in the first quarter, a timing that could strengthen consumption momentum, the Central Statistics Agency (BPS) said.
BPS recorded Indonesia’s economic growth at 5.11% in 2025, a figure that, while slightly below the government’s projection, remains relatively strong compared with regional peers such as Malaysia and Thailand amid global uncertainty and geopolitical tensions.
Growth accelerated toward the end of the year, reaching 5.39% in the fourth quarter, supported by high public mobility, investment growth above 6%, and household consumption that expanded 5.11%, indicating improving consumer confidence.
However, BPS head Amalia Adininggar noted that Indonesia is experiencing a structural shift in spending behavior, with more transactions moving online and consumption patterns increasingly shaped by Gen Z and millennial consumers.
“Public confidence to consume has improved, but the way people shop is changing. Not all spending is done offline anymore, and the types of goods purchased are also shifting,” she said on Friday at the B-Universe office in Tangerang.
Amalia emphasized that 5.11% growth still reflects a resilient economy, especially given external pressures.
In 2025, the Eid al-Fitr holiday period was concentrated in the second quarter, while in 2026 the entire Ramadan-to-post-Eid stretch will occur in the first quarter, potentially front-loading consumption and economic activity at the start of the year.
The shift creates what BPS describes as a momentum opportunity for domestic demand to strengthen earlier in the year, offering a supportive base for Indonesia’s 2026 growth trajectory despite lingering global risks.
Previously, BPS reported that Indonesia’s economy grew 5.11% cumulatively in 2025, improving from 5.03% growth in 2024, supported by steady household spending, government outlays, and investment.
The agency also recorded GDP per capita rising to Rp 83.7 million, or about $5,083.4, from Rp 78.6 million a year earlier, indicating continued income gains in Southeast Asia’s largest economy despite mounting external headwinds.
Source: jakartaglobe.id
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EPF 2025 dividend expected between 5.5% to 6.3%, says analyst
5 Feb 2026
Conventional Savings projected at 5.8-6.3%, Shariah at 5.5-6.0% based on nine-month investment performance
PETALING JAYA: The Employees Provident Fund (EPF) is anticipated to announce dividend rates ranging from 5.8 to 6.3 percent for Conventional Savings and 5.5 to 6.0 percent for Shariah Savings for 2025, according to financial analysts.
Samirul Ariff Othman, Senior Consultant at Global Asia Consulting, indicated that the projection aligns with robust investment income recorded during the first nine months of the year, though final distributions remain contingent upon the retirement fund’s profit realization protocols and long-term reserve obligations.
Speaking to Berita Harian, Samirul explained that the anticipated rates reflect both the strong performance during the initial three quarters and EPF’s governance framework, which prioritises fund sustainability over maximising short-term dividend payouts.
“Based on the nine-month performance and the EPF’s own realisation discipline and reserves, the expectation for the 2025 dividend is around 5.8 to 6.3 percent for Conventional Savings and around 5.5 to 6.0 percent for Shariah Savings,” he stated.
The consultant emphasised a crucial point that contributors must understand: not all market gains translate into distributable dividends, particularly unrealised gains that exist only on paper.
“The EPF insists that ‘mark-to-market’ gains, including those driven by foreign exchange and which have not been realised, cannot be distributed as dividends,” Samirul explained.
He noted that despite positive global market recovery trends, actual dividend figures depend on profits that have been genuinely realised and the necessity of maintaining adequate reserves for future stability.
“This factor directly limits the dividend ‘ceiling’, even though investment income appears high on paper,” he added.
Addressing the projected differential between Conventional and Shariah Savings rates, Samirul attributed the typically lower Shariah dividends to structural limitations within Islamic investment frameworks.
“A Shariah portfolio lacks conventional bonds, lacks flexibility in terms of certain risk protections and is more sensitive to equity cycles,” he clarified.
These investment constraints inherent to Shariah-compliant portfolios generally result in slightly reduced returns compared to conventional investment strategies, which have access to a broader range of financial instruments.
The projected 2025 rates would maintain EPF’s relatively stable dividend performance, continuing the pattern established in recent years. In 2024, both Conventional and Shariah Savings achieved matching rates of 6.30 percent, marking a notable convergence between the two savings categories.
Historical data shows EPF dividend rates have fluctuated based on market conditions and investment performance. In 2023, Conventional Savings delivered 5.50 percent while Shariah Savings provided 5.40 percent. The year 2022 saw rates of 5.35 percent for Conventional and 4.75 percent for Shariah accounts.
The most substantial recent performance came in 2021, when Conventional Savings reached 6.10 percent and Shariah Savings achieved 5.65 percent. Conversely, 2020’s pandemic-affected markets resulted in more modest returns of 5.20 percent for Conventional and 4.90 percent for Shariah portfolios.
EPF’s conservative approach to dividend distribution reflects its dual mandate: providing competitive returns to contributors while ensuring the long-term sustainability and financial health of Malaysia’s primary retirement savings institution.
Source: thesun.my
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https://thesun.my/business/local-business/epf-2025-dividend-expected-between-5-5-to-6-3-says-analyst/
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Pahang Sultan consents to rename UnIPSAS as Universiti Al‑Quran
06 Feb 2026
KUANTAN, Feb 6 — The Sultan of Pahang, Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah, has consented to rename Universiti Islam Pahang Sultan Ahmad Shah (UnIPSAS) as Universiti Al-Quran, making it the first of its kind in the country.
Al-Sultan Abdullah said efforts to uphold Islam in Pahang will be strengthened through a university centred on Quranic studies.
His Royal Highness said the renaming is more than a name change, but a clear direction in positioning the Quran as a hallmark of the state’s intellectual and spiritual growth.
“This branding is like raising a landmark in the state, clearly signalling its direction and purpose,” he said in a post on the Kesultanan Pahang Facebook page today.
The Ruler was speaking at the closing ceremony of the 69th Pahang Quran and Memorisation competition at Dewan Jubli Perak Sultan Haji Ahmad Shah, here, yesterday.
Al-Sultan Abdullah also hoped the soon-to-be-proclaimed Universiti Al-Quran would spread understanding of the Quran and produce scholars, preachers and leaders guided by divine revelation.
Ahead of Ramadan, he urged the people to prepare with sincerity and devotion, noting the month as a school for the soul and a time to strengthen their bond with the Creator.
The Sultan stressed that Ramadan’s beauty lies in respect, tolerance and helping those in need, so its blessings reach all.
At the event, Zul-Hasyimi Mohamed Yunus was named Qari champion, while Nurul Saadah Mohamad Zaini won the Qariah category. — Bernama
Source: malaymail.com
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Malaysia Hindu Sangam slams parties fuelling racial tension, urges govt to protect heritage temples
By Dhesegaan Bala Krishnan
06 Feb 2026
KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 6 — The Malaysia Hindu Sangam (MHS) today slammed parties stoking racial tensions by spreading false narratives about the legal status of Hindu temples in the country.
MHS president Ganesan Thangavelu said the problem is not a religious conflict but rather stems from the lack of holistic government policies over the years.
“Labelling temples ‘haram’, stoking public sentiments and creating pressure with street protests will not resolve the problem, disrupt national unity and goes against the principles of equity and justice,” Ganesan said in a statement today.
“Historically, many Hindu temples were built decades or centuries ago in estates, plantations and old villages to meet the religious needs of the people.
“But many of the lands were sold or the ownership was transferred when urbanisation began.
“In many cases, the new owners of the land allowed the temples to continue operating on a mutual understanding — even without written agreements,” he explained.
Ganesan said MHS had submitted a memorandum to the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) on April 6 last year, proposing the creation of a regulatory body to verify temple land status and initiate efforts to legalise temple lands.
However, he claimed that no substantial progress was made — apart from several initial meetings between MHS and the PMO.
Ganesan, therefore, urged Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, Indian representatives in the Cabinet as well as the state governments and local councils to protect temples with rich heritage and historical value.
He also called on the government to provide lasting and structured resolutions for all stakeholders involved in temple land disputes.
The Hindu advisory group’s statement comes ahead of a rally planned by controversial preacher Zamri Vinoth this weekend to protest what he claimed were “illegal temple sites”.
The legal status of Hindu temple lands sparked widespread debate following the relocation of the Dewi Sri Pathrakaliamman Temple at Jalan Munshi Abdullah in Masjid India last year.
Last month, Federal Territories Minister Hannah Yeoh said the new temple site has been gazetted as a Non-Muslim House of Worship site and that the ministry will facilitate the relocation process together with local authorities.
Source: malaymail.com
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https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2026/02/06/malaysia-hindu-sangam-slams-parties-fuelling-racial-tension-urges-govt-to-protect-heritage-temples/208258
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Anwar says economic growth meaningless if ordinary Malaysians do not feel it
By Muhammad Yusry
05 Feb 2026
KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 5 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim today said Malaysia’s improving economic indicators would mean little if growth does not translate into better living standards for ordinary Malaysians.
Speaking at the Malaysia Economic Forum 2026 here, Anwar said that while the country was on track to record GDP growth of about 4.9 per cent in 2025 with inflation contained at 1.6 per cent, economic success could not be measured by numbers alone.
“But let us be clear. Numbers alone do not define success. Markets may respond to data, but the rakyat judge by experience,” he said in his keynote address.
“Growth must be felt in homes, in workplaces, and in the cost of living faced by ordinary families. Otherwise, it remains hollow,” he added.
Anwar said renewed investor confidence and a strengthening ringgit reflected growing trust in Malaysia’s institutions and governance, which he attributed to disciplined fiscal management and reforms undertaken by his administration.
He said his administration had taken an uncompromising stance against corruption, stressing that there would be no exceptions for the well-connected.
“There will be no tolerance for corruption and no exceptions for the well-connected. Without accountability, there can be no credibility. Without credibility, there can be no sustainable growth,” he said.
However, Anwar said enforcement alone was insufficient, emphasising the need for lasting institutional reforms that outlive political cycles.
“We are strengthening institutions so that integrity does not depend on personalities, but on systems. Rules must outlast individuals,” he said.
The prime minister said economic reforms must ultimately expand opportunities and improve real living standards, particularly in the face of cost-of-living pressures.
Anwar also highlighted the impact of technological change, particularly artificial intelligence, on the labour market, warning that policy choices made now would determine whether technology widened opportunity or deepened inequality.
He said growth must be broad-based, with greater focus on regional development, small and medium enterprises, and higher-value tourism, while basic needs such as healthcare, housing, and preparation for an ageing society must not be neglected.
On climate policy, Anwar said the energy transition was no longer optional, describing it as a practical response to global market changes, as Parliament prepares to consider a Climate Change Bill.
“We will not retreat from reform, and we will not compromise on integrity,” he said.
Source: malaymail.com
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https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2026/02/05/anwar-says-economic-growth-meaningless-if-ordinary-malaysians-do-not-feel-it/208157
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Malaysians advised to defer non-essential travel to Iran
5 Feb 2026
Malaysia’s Foreign Ministry advises citizens to postpone non-essential travel to Iran and urges those in the country to stay vigilant amid security concerns.
KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysians are advised to defer all non-essential travel to Iran for the time being. The Foreign Ministry issued the advisory citing the precarious security situation in the country and its surroundings.
It also advised Malaysians currently in Iran to consider making appropriate travel arrangements through available commercial means. Those who decide to remain are urged to stay vigilant and avoid large public gatherings.
Citizens must adhere to instructions issued by local authorities. For consular assistance, Malaysians may contact the ministry’s Consular Division during office hours.
The contact numbers are +603-8887 4597, +603-8887 4769, and +603-8887 4264. Assistance is also available via email at bkrm@kln.gov.my.
The ministry may be contacted after hours through an emergency helpline at +603-8887 4570. The duty officer can also be reached via email at dutyofficer@kln.gov.my.
Wisma Putra said it will continue to monitor the situation closely. It will provide updates as necessary.
Source: thesun.my
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https://thesun.my/news/malaysia-news/people-issues/malaysians-advised-to-defer-non-essential-travel-to-iran/
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Europe
UN warns of nuclear risk as New START treaty expires
5 Feb, 2026
The expiration of the New START nuclear reduction treaty between Russia and the US is “a grave moment for international peace and security,” UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said on Thursday.
The strategic arms control treaty officially expired on February 5, and Moscow has not received any formal response from the US about renewing it, according to the Russian Foreign Ministry.
For the first time in over 50 years, the two largest nuclear powers have no limits on their arsenals, the statement by Guterres read. Fewer safeguards now exist against a “devastating miscalculation” compared to the Cold War and its aftermath.
“This dissolution of decades of achievement could not come at a worse time – the risk of a nuclear weapon being used is the highest in decades,” Guterres warned. He urged Washington and Moscow to negotiate a successor framework.
New START was signed in 2011 and was last extended in 2021. However, the Ukraine conflict precipitated a deterioration. Russia blamed the Western backers of Kiev – including the administration of then-US President Joe Biden – for targeting its nuclear deterrence assets via proxy and suspending verification inspections.
Russian President Vladimir Putin proposed to his US counterpart Donald Trump a one-year extension through mutual pledges to observe New START’s limits, allowing time for normalization talks and a potential replacement treaty.
Trump said he wants a “better” agreement that includes China. Moscow noted any expansion must also cover nuclear NATO members France and the UK.
In a Megyn Kelly interview this week, US Vice President J.D. Vance called nuclear proliferation a major threat and said the Trump administration will “work with China and Russia and any country… to try to draw down the amount of nuclear weapons that exist in the world.”
Russian Security Council Deputy Chairman Dmitry Medvedev previously said the revival of great-power politics accelerated by Trump’s foreign policy pushes smaller nations to seek nuclear weapons because “humanity has not invented another way to guarantee self-defense and sovereignty with certainty.”
Source: rt.com
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https://www.rt.com/news/632051-un-nuclear-treaty-expiration/
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Starmer distances himself from former UK envoy linked to Epstein
5 Feb, 2026
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has scrambled to distance himself from former Labour Party member Peter Mandelson after newly released documents revealed his relationship with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Starmer claimed he fell victim to “deceit” by a man he had himself appointed as ambassador to the US in 2024.
Mandelson resigned from the Labour Party and quit his position in the House of Lords earlier this week after documents released by the US Department of Justice suggested he had received $75,000 from the late pedophile. He still denied any wrongdoing by claiming that he had no recollection of ever receiving the money.
The same batch of Epstein files released last week also suggested that Mandelson had leaked confidential government documents to Epstein in 2009 and 2010 when he was a prominent figure in the then Labour government. The revelations prompted the UK police to open a case into alleged misconduct of office against the former official.
“I was lied to,” Starmer said on Thursday, addressing the criticism related to his decision to appoint Mandelson ambassador to the US at a time when his links to Epstein were already somewhat known. “I understand the anger and frustration among Labour MPs,” he stated, adding that “it had been publicly known for some time that Mandelson knew Epstein, but none of us knew the depth and the darkness of that relationship.”
The prime minister also said he wanted to release the security vetting advice he had received on Mandelson back in 2024 but dropped the idea because of a police request not to do anything that could affect the ongoing investigation into the former ambassador.
A Conservative Party spokesperson demanded an independent probe into Mandelson’s 2024 appointment. “Keir Starmer and his chief of staff appointed Mandelson ambassador despite his relationship with Epstein, and then refused to act even as the mountain of evidence against him grew,” the official said.
Starmer fired Mandelson last year following revelations about a ten-page “love” letter to his “best pal” Epstein.
Source: rt.com
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https://www.rt.com/news/632079-starmer-distance-labour-member-epstein/
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Mosque charity trustee avoids ban after social media post investigated
05 Feb 2026
A trustee of a charity that runs a mosque in Bristol has avoided disqualification after being investigated over a social media post about Hamas’s attack on Israel on 7 October 2023.
Abdul Malik will continue to sit on Easton Jamia Masjid’s board after the Charity Commission ruled that his decision to repost the material was “unquestionably wrong” but “did not fully meet the legal test for disqualifying him”.
Malik, also a Green Party councillor in the city, was suspended in December last year, when chair of the charity, as the commission opened a compliance case into a Facebook post he shared in late 2023 about the attack on Israel.
In late 2023, Malik reposted a video that reportedly showed a Hamas spokesperson giving an update on the attack in which around 1,200 people were killed and 250 taken hostage.
A businessman and magistrate, Malik received a formal warning from the Judicial Conduct Investigations Office (JCIO) in early 2025 before the commission’s separate probe.
The regulator temporarily suspended Malik as a trustee and considered whether to disqualify him permanently, but has now decided not to do so after completing its case.
A Charity Commission spokesperson said: “Mr Malik’s decision to repost this material on social media was unquestionably wrong.
“However, the commission can only use the powers given to it by parliament and, having weighed up the evidence and Mr Malik’s representations as required under the legislation, we concluded that while his conduct was damaging to trust and confidence in charities it did not fully meet the legal test for disqualifying him as a trustee.
“While Mr Malik is now able to continue to serve as a trustee, should any further concerns come to light we will not hesitate to assess those and reserve all regulatory options for the future.”
Malik welcomed the ruling and told Civil Society: “I hope this outcome provides reassurance to charity leaders that due process works when matters are assessed carefully on the evidence rather than on commentary or external pressure.”
Limit to commission’s powers
The commission had initially proposed a three-year sector wide ban for Malik, the BBC reported, but decided a disqualification was not appropriate following its review.
Despite criticising Malik’s behaviour, the commission cannot issue an official warning to an individual for personal conduct which could be damaging to trust and confidence in charities.
Civil Society understands the commission is in dialogue with the government over its powers.
At the end of last year, the government said it would consult on expanded powers for the commission, including the ability to ban people convicted of hate crimes from trusteeship and holding senior manager positions.
Previous JCIO warning
When the video was initially shared, Malik was not in elected office.
In early 2024, before that year’s local May elections, Malik claimed that he was tagged in the post rather than sharing it himself.
However, he later admitted he had directly shared it which prompted the JCIO investigation.
The JCIO probe concluded in early 2025 after Malik told the office he shared the post believing it to be from a UK-based humanitarian aid charity for Palestine.
Malik admitted he had not checked the post’s source or content, but said he did not endorse nor comment on it.
Despite apologising for sharing the video and emphasising that he did not support Hamas, Malik received a formal JCIO warning for serious misconduct.
A JCIO spokesperson said in February 2025 that Malik “failed to exercise due care and diligence”.
Source: civilsociety.co.uk
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https://www.civilsociety.co.uk/governance/mosque-charity-trustee-avoids-ban-after-social-media-post-investigated.html
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NZ Muslim volunteers scour web for extremist content as Internal Affairs faces capacity constraints
6 Feb 2026
Members of the Muslim community are sifting through distressing online content to report potential threats as government resourcing for the work is constrained.
The Federation of the Islamic Associations of New Zealand (Fianz) has a group of fewer than 10 volunteers scouring the internet, from social media to the dark web, looking for threats to their community.
Content they believe represents a threat is passed on to the police and the Department of Internal Affairs (DIA).
Non-governmental organisations (NGOs) such as Fianz have now overtaken the DIA and other government agencies as the leading source of referrals of potential Terrorist and Violent Extremist Content (TVEC).
According to the DIA’s Digital Violent Extremism Transparency Reports, the agency itself made 261 detections in 2021 that were investigated.
There were 141 referrals made by other government agencies, 131 made by the public and 108 from NGOs.
By 2024, this had reversed – the DIA made just 24 referrals, other government agencies made 96, while the public had made 192 and NGOs had made 340.
NGOs made 340 referrals of extremist content in 2024, more than any agency.
Fianz chairman Abdur Razzaq said the March 15 mosque attacks, when 51 worshippers were murdered by Australian terrorist Brenton Tarrant in Christchurch in 2019, were a wake-up call.
He said that with many members of their community killed and others wounded, Kiwi Muslims felt obligated not to purely rely on other agencies, but to do what little they could themselves.
“So we thought it’s very important we also monitor for our own safety, and see what is out there. If there are any imminent or important issues which we can see, which we can then pass on to the authorities.”
Among what they refer are things “which have a tangible, identifiable element where we feel like, they’re going to do planning for an attack or talking about an attack”.
In one example, Razzaq said, in 2024 the team found someone had turned the terrorist’s attack footage into a video game.
He said they’d seen this before, but this time it was far more graphic.
“And of course, this is extremely traumatising, not only for the family and the children, but the whole entire community, and I’m sure everybody else.
“We immediately notified the DIA and I think within three hours they were able to bring it down.”
An Internal Affairs spokesperson said many of the NGO referrals are from larger and often international NGO agencies which specialise in identifying terrorist and violent extremist content.
They say an increase in these referrals highlights their partnerships with international not-for-profit organisations, such as the Counter Extremism Project.
“Pro-active scanning is undertaken by our investigators when investigative duties allow and following major events.”
However, the agency’s admitted resourcing issues have played a role in falling in-house detections.
The DIA has told Fianz that the sharp drop isn’t just a sign of reduced risk or lower visibility.
It said it “correlates with persistent resourcing and capacity constraints within Government and DIA teams responsible for content triage, monitoring, and proactive detection”.
“Civil society and NGO actors now carry a disproportionate share of the detection burden, underscoring the importance of multi-stakeholder resourcing, information sharing, and sustainable operational frameworks.”
The DIA has confirmed that a new team dedicated to protecting people and communities from online violent extremism was established in 2020.
Known as the Digital Violent Extremism Team, it began with six permanent staff plus a fixed-term principal adviser.
It was also supported by an Intelligence and Insights Team.
This had expanded from five to seven staff – before being dissolved. Four roles from this group were distributed across the Digital Safety group.
Now, recent organisational changes mean just five full-time staff remain dedicated to combating violent extremist content online.
Razzaq said many terrorists have an online presence, and if they aren’t monitored, we won’t know what’s going on.
But in spite of the Fianz community’s sense of duty, he said they wouldn’t subject themselves to having to witness and report this kind of content if they didn’t have to.
“We’re not geared up for this.
“If we felt others were looking at it, why would we? ... We are a religious charity organisation.”
The DIA says that often NGOs have close ties with the communities they serve, and people may feel safer reporting potential threats to those groups.
It says it’s “appreciative of the role NGOs play in protecting their communities and reporting potentially objectionable material” and will continue working closely with them.
Source: newstalkzb.co.nz
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https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/national/nz-muslim-volunteers-scour-web-for-extremist-content-as-internal-affairs-faces-capacity-constraints/
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King Charles III hosts the Aga Khan V for private black tie dinner marking the anniversary of his accession
5 February 2026
King Charles III hosted the Aga Khan V for a private dinner at Windsor Castle last night to mark the first anniversary of his accession.
Prince Rahim Al-Hussaini, 54, inherited the title of the hereditary spiritual Imam of the Shia Imami Ismaili Muslims on the death of his father, Prince Karim al-Husayni, the Aga Khan IV, on 4th February 2025.
The late spiritual leader and billionaire philanthropist had been a close friend of Queen Elizabeth II and was considered one of the world's most well connected royals. When the Aga Khan IV passed away aged 88, King Charles shared a personal statement to say he was ‘deeply saddened’ and reached out to the Prince's family to offer his condolences.
The Aga Khan V, who is half-British but based in Switzerland, is visiting Britain and has carried out a number of meetings, including with the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office.
Last night, it was a rather more regal affair with a black tie dinner held in his honour. The Royal Family Instagram account offered little insight into the evening, other than to share a photo of the two men looking dapper in the finery. The photo is believed to have been taken in the Grand Corridor, which was built for George IV to connect the apartments in the Upper Ward.
King Charles and the Aga Khan no doubt had much to discuss, with both men being passionate advocates for sustainable development and mitigating the effects of climate change. According to one insider, the trip was an opportunity for the Aga Khan to thank the King for bestowing him the title ‘His Highness’ last February.
The Aga Khan V – whose mother, Princess Salimah, was formerly known as Sarah Croker Poole, and the knot with Prince Karim al-Husayni after separating from Lord James Charles Crichton-Stuart, son of John Crichton-Stuart, 5th Marquess of Bute – is no stranger to the obligations of his title. He has extensive experience working within his father’s philanthropic empire, having served as chair of the Environment and Climate Committee for the Aga Khan Development Network.
‘Prince Rahim has been particularly concerned with the AKDN's drive to protect the environment and mitigate the effects of climate change,’ reads the Network’s website, which highlighted the Aga Khan V’s particular interest in ‘addressing the needs of those living in the greatest poverty’.
The newest holder of the illustrious Aga Khan title was educated in the United States and now lives in Switzerland. He has two sons, whom he welcomed with his ex-wife, the American model, Kendra Spears. The pair married in 2013 after Spears converted to Islam and went by the name Princess Salwa Aga Khan – though they divorced in 2022.
The Aga Khan V’s first official international engagement came in July 2025 when he travelled to France to meet with President Macron. Held at the Élysée Palace, the tête-à-tête was certainly more of a work visit than a banquet occasion: the pair discussed politics, aid, and international collaboration.
He follows in the illustrious footsteps of his father, who became part of the House of Windsor's inner circle and a major international power player.
Born on December 13, 1936, he was the elder son of Prince Aly Khan by his first wife, Joan Yarde-Buller, the daughter of the 3rd Baron Churston. The Pope of his flock, he possessed fabled wealth and inhabited a world of marvellous châteaux, yachts, jets, and Thoroughbred horses. Few people bridged so many divides — between the spiritual and the material; East and West; Muslim and Christian — as gracefully as he did.
Having celebrated his Golden and Diamond Jubilees with Queen Elizabeth II, the Aga Khan often appeared at state dinners alongside the likes of Princess Margaret and the Prince and Princess of Wales. Though he had no political territory, he was virtually a one-man state and was often received like a head of state when he travelled. With a British passport, he spent a great deal of his time aloft in his private aircraft.
Growing up in Geneva, Prince Karim attended Le Rosey, renowned for being one of the world's most expensive boarding schools, before travelling across the pond to study History at Harvard. Thrust into the limelight at the early age of 20, he became the religious leader of all the world’s Ismaili muslims following the death of his grandfather in 1957. Following his abrupt ascension to the Imaan, the Aga Khan helped his Ismaili flock navigate the end of the Cold War, the end of colonialism in Africa and communism in Central Asia, and the continuous turmoil in the Middle East, where militant Sunni jihadists brand the moderate Ismaili as apostates.
‘An imam is not expected to withdraw from everyday life,’ he told Vanity Fair, in an attempt to square his activities as a venture capitalist with his religious responsibilities. ‘On the contrary, he’s expected to protect his community and contribute to their quality of life. The imamate does not divide world and faith.’ The title Aga Khan — meaning, in a combination of Turkish and Persian, commanding chief — was granted in the 1830s by the Emperor of Persia to Karim’s great-great-grandfather when he married the emperor’s daughter.
Prince Karim al-Husayni's accession was unexpected: the title of Aga Khan skipped his father, Prince Aly Khan, and went straight to him. His grandfather explained in his will that ‘in view of the altered conditions in the world in very recent years, including the discoveries of atomic sciences, I am convinced that it is in the best interest of the Shia Muslim Ismailian Community that I should be succeeded by a young man’. Thus, aged 21, he became the 49th hereditary Imam of the Ismaili Muslims.
The most devoted of the Aga Khan’s flock – 15 million Shia Imami Ismaili Muslims scattered in 25 countries across the world – hailed him as the ‘the bringer of life’, and considered him to be the carrier of the eternal Noor of Allah (light of God). As Imam, he was responsible for looking after the material as well as spiritual needs of his followers across Asia, Africa, the Middle East, Europe and North America. His projects, however, benefited people of all faiths.
For others, though, Prince Shah Karim was best known for his immense wealth. Described by Forbes magazine as one of the world’s 10 richest royals, the Aga Khan IV had an estimated net worth of over £13 billion. He owned hundreds of racehorses and premier stud farms, an exclusive yacht club on Sardinia, a private island in the Bahamas, two Bombardier jets, Alamshar — a £100-million high-speed yacht named after one of his prized racehorses — and several estates around the world.
His principal residence was the beautiful, breathtaking palace of Aiglemont, which is surrounded by water and sits at the heart of the town of Gouvieux, north of Paris. On-site, in addition to a château and an elaborate training centre for about 100 of his Thoroughbreds, sits the Secretariat, a modern office block that houses the nerve centre of what might have be described as his own U.N., the Aga Khan Development Network. A staggeringly large and effective organisation, it employs 80,000 people in 30 countries.
In 1969, the Aga Khan married Lady James Charles Crichton-Stuart, who became Princess Salimah Aga Khan, and assumed the name Begum Salimah Aga Khan upon marrying him. Sarah Frances was previously married to Lord James Charles Crichton-Stuart, son of John Crichton-Stuart, 5th Marquess of Bute. The couple had three children, including the current Aga Khan, before their divorce in 1995.
In 1998, he married Princess Gabriele of Leiningen, who assumed the name Begum Inaara Aga Khan at her wedding. Born to Roman Catholic German entrepreneur parents in 1963, Gabriele was 27 years younger than the Aga Khan. Two years after the wedding, the Aga Khan became a father again at the age of 64, with the birth of a son, Aly Muhammad Aga Khan, born on 7 March 2000.
Source: tatler.com
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https://www.tatler.com/article/king-charles-iii-hosts-the-aga-khan-v-for-private-black-tie-dinner-marking-the-anniversary-of-his-accession
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Former Daghestani imam arrested over murder of second wife
by Elizaveta Chukharova
5 February 2026
The Kizlyar district court of Daghestan has remanded 44-year-old local resident and imam Magomedali Mirzakhanov to two months in pre-trial detention after Mirzakhanov confessed to police he had murdered his second wife.
The joint press service of the Daghestani courts reported the decision on Wednesday. According to investigators, Mirzakhanov had come to the police and confessed to the crime.
According to the case materials, the murder took place on the evening of 13 December 2025 in the village of Krasny Voskhod in northern Daghestan’s Kizlyar district. Mirzakhanov arrived at the house where a 35-year-old woman lived, whom he was in a Muslim marriage with. At that time, their joint seven-month-old child and the woman’s four children from a previous marriage were in the house.
That night, an argument broke out between the spouses. According to Mirzakhanov’s testimony, during the conflict, he strangled his wife to death. Later, he transported the body by car to the neighbouring Tarumovsky district, to the outskirts of the village named after Soviet writer Maksim Gorky. There, he washed the body in a canal, wrapped it in a sheet taken from the house, and buried it at a rubbish dump.
Relatives of the deceased did not immediately contact the police. According to them, the woman had previously sometimes left home without warning her relatives, so her absence initially did not cause alarm. A missing person report was filed approximately two weeks after the murder.
Almost two months after the woman’s disappearance, Mirzakhanov voluntarily came to law enforcement agencies and submitted a written confession. During questioning, he stated that the reason for his actions was jealousy. According to Mirzakhanov, his wife had behaved coldly towards him, and some of her comments made him think she was being unfaithful.
The pro-government Russian media outlet Tsargrad wrote that Mirzakhanov regularly used physical violence against his second wife, referring to sharia norms (the rules of everyday life for Muslims).
The court chose a preventive measure for the suspect in the form of detention in custody until 2 April 2026. He has been charged with murder, the maximum punishment of which is up to 15 years in prison.
Mirzakhanov previously worked as an imam in a mosque in the Tarumovsky district, but about six months prior to his arrrest, his contract ended and he was relieved of his position. Local media claim that in the village, he was known as a religious and respected person.
The murder is the latest incident of domestic violence in the North Caucasus.
At the end of January 2026, a 28-year-old resident of Daghestan, Razhidin Yaraliev, confessed to the brutal murder of his wife, 36-year-old Malvina Magomedova. A few days before, the dismembered and burned remains of a woman were discovered near the city of Derbent, which were later identified as Magomedova.
Source: media.org
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https://oc-media.org/former-daghestani-imam-arrested-over-murder-of-second-wife/
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Watford mosque team 'delighted' after plan approved
5 FEBRUARY 2026
The team behind a newly approved plan for a mosque in Watford have said they are "delighted" with the outcome.
The borough council's development management committee granted permission on Wednesday (February 3) for the St Thomas' United Reformed Church site to be turned into a Muslim place of worship.
A spokesperson for Masjid Al Ummah - the group that purchased the Langley Road building for £3.5 million last year - said: "We are delighted that Watford Borough Council has supported our vision for a new Masjid and community hub. This decision represents a positive step forward for local families, young people, and residents from all backgrounds.
"We are grateful to the councillors and council officers for their constructive engagement throughout the process, and we also thank local residents and the wider community for their feedback and support. We remain committed to delivering a welcoming facility that benefits the whole community.”
The church shut in 2015 and the building has since become “not fit for purpose” due to “serious structural defects”.
At last night's meeting, councillors voted in favour of the proposal, feeling that the community benefits outweigh the potential issues to do with parking.
As well as the mosque, the proposal includes an extension and extensive refurbishment of the building, with a nursery, café, and community space to be provided alongside the religious use.
The spokesperson continued: "Masjid Al Ummah has reaffirmed its commitment to delivering a facility that is open, welcoming, and beneficial to the whole community, contributing positively to the social and cultural life of Watford."
Mosque plan for Watford church APPROVED
Woman hit by car this morning taken to hospital
While previously a summer 2026 opening had been eyed, work on the construction phase is now set to begin later this year, with the aim of completion by next summer.
St Thomas is one of two former Watford churches that have been eyed for conversion into mosques in recent months.
The plan for the other, Leavesden Road Baptist Church, was refused a week ago after officers found it would “cause substantial harm to the significance of the listed building”.
The applicant has subsequently indicated to the Watford Observer that a revised application is likely to be submitted.
Source: watfordobserver.co.uk
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https://www.watfordobserver.co.uk/news/25825156.watford-mosque-team-delighted-plan-approved/
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North America
US blockade threatens ‘humanitarian collapse’ in Cuba – UN chief
6 Feb, 2026
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has warned that the US-imposed energy blockade could cause a humanitarian collapse in Cuba.
The Cuban authorities have been preparing to roll out rationing plans to address worsening fuel shortages after US President Donald Trump threatened to impose tariffs on goods from countries shipping oil to the island.
Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel said the blockade has caused blackouts and disrupted schools, hospitals, and public transportation.
At a briefing on Thursday, UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric said Guterres is “extremely concerned about the humanitarian situation in Cuba, which will worsen, if not collapse, if its oil needs go unmet.”
According to Dujarric, Guterres stated that the UN General Assembly “has consistently called for an end to the embargo imposed by the United States on Cuba.”
The US has maintained a trade embargo against Cuba since 1960. In December 2025, the US Navy and Coast Guard began seizing tankers in the Caribbean for allegedly violating sanctions. Trump accused Cuba of supporting terrorist groups and described Havana’s ties with Russia, China, and Iran as a threat to US national security.
On Thursday, the US announced it would deliver an additional $6 million in aid to Cuba, largely for the island’s eastern regions hit last year by Hurricane Melissa. Jeremy Lewin, a senior State Department official responsible for humanitarian assistance, accused the Cuban government of hoarding resources and denied that food shortages were linked to the ban on oil shipments.
In an address on Thursday, Diaz-Canel rejected claims that Cuba supports terrorism or poses a threat to the US. He said the government is ready for dialogue with Washington, but only on the basis of equality and respect for Cuba’s sovereignty.
Source: rt.com
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https://www.rt.com/news/632081-un-concerned-cuba-blockade/
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Trump comments on extending New START treaty
5 Feb, 2026
US President Donald Trump has dismissed the New START nuclear reduction treaty between Moscow and Washington as a “badly negotiated deal,” calling instead for US nuclear experts to begin work on a completely new agreement.
The strategic arms control agreement officially expired on February 5, sparking concerns in Moscow and at the UN. Axios reported the same day that US and Russian officials agreed to work on “updating” the agreement on the sidelines of the Ukraine peace talks in Abu Dhabi.
“Rather than extend ‘NEW START’ … we should have our Nuclear Experts work on a new, improved, and modernized Treaty that can last long into the future,” Trump wrote on Truth Social on Thursday, claiming the agreement was being “grossly violated.”
Shortly after Trump’s post, White House spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt told journalists that the US plans to discuss a new treaty with Russia. She also denied that Moscow and Washington had reached any temporary agreements on abiding by the provisions of the expired treaty.
Signed in 2010, the treaty capped the number of strategic nuclear warheads and launchers that could be deployed and established monitoring mechanisms for both Russian and American arsenals. It was initially set to expire in 2021 but was extended for five years at the time.
Moscow suspended the verification mechanisms of the treaty in 2023, citing Ukrainian strikes on elements of Russia’s nuclear deterrence and accusing the West of actively being involved. Yet, there have been no reports on any side violating the limitations set in the treaty.
Earlier on Thursday, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Moscow had suggested adhering to the treaty’s provisions for another year but that the initiative had “remained unanswered.” UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called on Russia and the US to negotiate a successor framework, warning about the “highest” risk of a nuclear conflict in decades.
Trump previously stated that he wanted a “better” agreement that includes China. On Thursday, Peskov said that China considers joining the talks on a new treaty “pointless” since its nuclear arsenal is incompatible with that of Russia and the US. “We respect this position,” he added.
Source: rt.com
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https://www.rt.com/news/632077-trump-extending-new-start-treaty/
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Trump admits immigration crackdown needs ‘softer touch’ after deaths
5 Feb, 2026
US President Donald Trump has admitted that immigration enforcement could use “a softer touch” after federal agents shot and killed two US citizens during operations in Minneapolis last month.
The shootings have ignited a renewed wave of protests against the ongoing immigration crackdown. In an interview with NBC News published on Thursday, Trump was asked what he had learned from the events in Minnesota.
“Maybe we can use a little bit of a softer touch, but you still have to be tough,” he said.
The president stressed that his deportation push led by the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) was targeting “really hard criminals.”
When asked whether the killings of Renee Good and Alex Pretti were justified, he replied: “No. It should have not happened.”
“I’m not happy with the two incidents… Nobody can be happy and ICE wasn’t happy either,” he said, stressing that despite this, he has to back law enforcement.
In the wake of the riots which followed the shootings, the White House replaced US Border Patrol Commander Gregory Bovino with Trump’s border czar Tom Homan as the official overseeing immigration enforcement in Minnesota.
The president has framed the reshuffle as a way to “de-escalate” the explosive situation in the state.
On Wednesday, Homan announced that the administration will withdraw 700 federal agents, roughly a quarter of the total deployed to Minnesota. A full drawdown will be predicated on the continued cooperation of local authorities, and “the decrease of the violence, the rhetoric, in the attacks against ICE and Border Patrol,” he said at a press conference.
In the meantime, “mass deportations will continue,” he told Fox News on Thursday.
Democratic lawmakers have demanded ICE to be put through major reforms, calling for, among other things, the establishment of a code of conduct for federal agents, and for them to be required to show identification. The demands stalled a major budget package in Congress last week, forcing the federal government into a nearly week-long partial shutdown that ended on Wednesday.
Source: rt.com
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https://www.rt.com/news/632070-trump-immigration-crackdown-softer-touch/
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CAIR-NY Welcomes Arrest for Anti-Muslim Attacks in Bay Ridge, Says Incidents Result of ‘Alarming Rise in Anti-Muslim Hate’
February 5, 2026
The New York chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-NY), a chapter of the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today welcomed the arrest of a Staten Island woman accused of carrying out a series of violent, anti-Muslim hate crime attacks in the Bay Ridge neighborhood of Brooklyn, including the assault of a 12-year-old Muslim girl.
CAIR-NY said the alleged attacks “are part of a broader and alarming rise in anti-Muslim hate.”
According to the NYPD, 34-year-old Megan Horne allegedly attacked three Muslims on January 30, targeting victims while making anti-Muslim remarks. The incidents included pushing and kicking a woman walking down the street with her child, assaulting another woman attempting to board a bus, and punching a minor outside a school.
All three victims were wearing a hijab, an Islamic headscarf. Authorities have charged the suspect with multiple offenses, including assault and aggravated harassment as hate crimes, as well as acting in a manner injurious to a child.
In a statement, CAIR-NY Executive Director Afaf Nasher, Esq., said:
“While we welcome the arrest of the suspect as an important step toward accountability, these disturbing attacks are part of a broader and alarming rise in anti-Muslim hate that is leaving our communities fearful and vulnerable. A child being targeted makes this violence especially egregious and underscores the urgent need for stronger protections against bias-motivated crimes.”
She added: “We encourage anyone who experiences or witnesses a bias-motivated incident to report it to law enforcement and civil rights organizations. We commend law enforcement authorities for taking these incidents seriously and stands in solidarity with the victims and their families.”
CAIR-NY’s mission is to protect civil rights, enhance understanding of Islam, promote justice, and empower American Muslims.
La misión de CAIR-NY es proteger las libertades civiles, mejorar la comprensión del Islam, promover la justicia, y empoderar a los musulmanes en los Estados Unidos.
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Source: cair.com
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https://www.cair.com/press_releases/cair-ny-welcomes-arrest-for-anti-muslim-attacks-in-bay-ridge-says-incidents-result-of-alarming-rise-in-anti-muslim-hate/
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Washington and Moscow re-establish high-level military contacts – US command
5 Feb, 2026
Russia and the US have agreed to restart crucial high-level military dialogue during the ongoing Ukraine peace talks in Abu Dhabi, Washington’s military command in Europe (EUCOM) said on Thursday.
The announcement coincides with the lapse of the New START treaty on February 5, the last nuclear agreement limiting US and Russian arsenals. The issue is also being discussed in the UAE capital, according to Axios.
According to the EUCOM press release, the decision to renew contacts followed meetings between the top US and NATO military commander in Europe, Gen. Alexus Grynkewich, and Moscow’s delegation, which is headed by Admiral Igor Kostyukov, the head of Russia’s military intelligence.
“Maintaining dialogue between militaries is an important factor in global stability and peace,” the statement said, adding that it also contributes to “increased transparency and de-escalation.”
Dialogue was frozen in late 2021, according to EUCOM.
“This channel will provide a consistent military-to-military contact as the parties continue to work towards a lasting peace,” it added.
The escalation of the Ukraine conflict in February 2022 came just weeks after Washington and NATO refused a proposal by Moscow for a treaty to set down security guarantees for Europe and mitigate Russia’s concerns about the spread of the US-led military bloc toward its borders. Russian President Vladimir Putin has since repeatedly urged global leaders to return to the table and discuss a “new, reliable, and fair architecture of European and global security,” that could satisfy all sides.
Moscow is also ready to continue “constructive” dialogue with the US on nuclear control, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Thursday, commenting on the expiration of the New START treaty.
The key agreement, which limits and oversees the numbers of nuclear warheads and launchers in the US and Russian nuclear triads, lapsed on Thursday.
Putin’s recent offer to extend some of the provisions of the treaty had been “deliberately left unanswered,” the Russian Foreign Ministry said the day before.
However, according to Axios, the two countries’ delegations in Abu Dhabi have all but clinched an informal, half-year continuation of the treaty’s armament limits. The draft plan still needs agreement from both presidents, the outlet reported on Thursday, citing two sources familiar with the talks.
Source: rt.com
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https://www.rt.com/news/632076-russia-us-reestablish-military-dialogue/
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CAIR Condemns Reported Censorship at Medgar Evers Memorial in Mississippi
February 5, 2026
The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today condemned the anticipated change to educational brochures at the Medgar & Myrlie Evers Home National Monument in Mississippi that would reportedly no longer describe his assassin, a Klansman, as a racist.
“We urge the National Park Service not to engage in historical revisionism and censorship for political ends,” said CAIR National Communications Director Ibrahim Hooper. “The tragic legacy of white supremacist violence should be faced and repudiated, not erased.”
CAIR’s mission is to protect civil rights, enhance understanding of Islam, promote justice, and empower American Muslims.
La misión de CAIR es proteger las libertades civiles, mejorar la comprensión del Islam, promover la justicia, y empoderar a los musulmanes en los Estados Unidos.
Do you like reading CAIR press releases and taking part in our action alerts? You can help contribute to CAIR’s work of defending civil rights and empowering American Muslims across the country by making a one-time contribution or becoming a monthly donor. Supporters like you make CAIR’s advocacy work possible and defeating Islamophobia an achievable goal. Click here to donate to CAIR.
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Source: cair.com
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https://www.cair.com/press_releases/cair-condemns-reported-censorship-at-medgar-evers-memorial-in-mississippi/
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CAIR, CAIR-Texas Dismiss Ken Paxton’s Latest Frivolous ‘Anti-Muslim Publicity Stunt’
February 5, 2026
The national headquarters and Texas chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today dismissed Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton’s latest attempt to target CAIR and the Texas Muslim community as “another frivolous, politically motivated anti-Muslim publicity stunt.”
CAIR-Texas also noted that the civil rights organization has already filed a federal lawsuit seeking to block any enforcement of the unconstitutional proclamation signed by Texas Governor Greg Abbott last fall.
In a statement, CAIR and CAIR-Texas said:
“Ken Paxton’s lawsuit is another frivolous, politically motivated anti-Muslim publicity stunt that wastes more taxpayer dollars. CAIR has already filed a federal lawsuit to block enforcement of Governor Abbott’s unconstitutional proclamation. We have also defeated Mr. Abbott’s attacks on Texas Muslims and the Constitution three different times in a row. We look forward to doing so again, God willing.
“Just as Mr. Paxton’s attempt to shut down a Latino voting rights group failed last week, his latest attempt to silence a minority group also appears doomed to fail. The people of Texas elected Mr. Paxton to serve them, not to silence them for daring to oppose Israel’s genocide in Gaza. CAIR-Texas plans to continue serving and protecting the people of Texas long after Ken Paxton leaves office.”
In his announcement of his lawsuit on X, Paxton repeated debunked anti-Muslim conspiracy theories about American Muslims, “sharia law” and “jihadists,” providing further proof of the anti-Muslim bigotry that has motivated his illegal actions.
Last week, CAIR-Texas congratulated Jolt Initiative, a Texas Latino voter rights organization, for its victory against Attorney General Ken Paxton’s lawless attack on the group. U.S. District Court Judge Robert Pitman issued a preliminary injunction halting Attorney General Paxton’s attempt to dissolve the corporate charter of Jolt Initiative. In his decision, Judge Pitman found that the Attorney General brought the action against Jolt Initiative in bad faith and had failed to establish any credible evidence of wrongdoing by the organization.
BACKGROUNDER:
Last fall, the Muslim Legal Fund of America (MLFA), the CAIR Legal Defense Fund (CAIR LDF) and Akeel & Valentine, PLC announced the filing of a federal lawsuit against Texas Governor Greg Abbott and Attorney General Ken Paxton to block enforcement of Abbott’s similar “unconstitutional and defamatory” Nov. 18th proclamation, which decreed CAIR a “foreign terrorist organization” and threatened various civil penalties against the civil rights organization if it continues to serve the people of Texas.
Instead of defending the merits of Governor Abbott’s Nov. 18th proclamation, Attorney General Paxton has argued that the proclamation does not apply to CAIR’s Texas chapters and that they therefore cannot sue to block its enforcement, that the Attorney General is immune from being sued because he has not yet taken any action against CAIR, and that the court should not rule on the order’s constitutionality at all because, he claims, it raises a “political question” that courts cannot resolve.
CAIR previously sent a letter to Abbott rebutting his false claims about CAIR and detailing the Muslim civil rights organization’s three-decade record of both defending civil rights and condemning all forms of unjust violence, including terrorism. The letter also cites numerous rulings and independent reports debunking efforts to smear CAIR or link it to any foreign entities.
CLICK HERE: LETTER TO GOV. ABBOTT
CAIR’s mission is to protect civil rights, enhance understanding of Islam, promote justice, and empower American Muslims.
La misión de CAIR es proteger las libertades civiles, mejorar la comprensión del Islam, promover la justicia, y empoderar a los musulmanes en los Estados Unidos.
Source: cair.com
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://www.cair.com/press_releases/cair-cair-texas-dismiss-ken-paxtons-latest-frivolous-anti-muslim-publicity-stunt/
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Africa
They Still Don’t Know What Happened! – Trump Reveals Why He Ordered Sokoto Airstrike On Christmas Day
06 February 2026
The President of the United States, Donald Trump, has opened up on the reason he ordered an airstrike on Sokoto State, Nigeria on Christmas Day.
Speaking on Thursday while addressing guests at the National Prayer Breakfast in Washington, D.C., Trump stated that he decided to order the airstrike on Christmas Day so it would leave an impact.
According to the U.S. president, the strikes were ordered to “decimate the ISIS terrorists who have been slaughtering Christians in that country by the thousands.”
He said, “I ordered powerful air strikes to decimate the ISIS terrorists who have been slaughtering Christians in that country by the thousands. It’s not even believable.
“We hit them so hard they still don’t know what the hell happened. And we were going to do it on a different day. I said no, do it on Christmas. So they understand it.
“Remember, Christmas was when I ran in 2015. When I announced, I said we’re going to bring back Christmas because the word Christmas was almost gone and people didn’t use Christmas anymore.”
Trump stated that the strike was carried out in collaboration with the Nigerian government.
He said, “On Christmas Day, in close coordination with the government of Nigeria, we worked with them, but they’ve got to get tougher.
“We brought back the word Christmas. They didn’t want to use it, and we’re using it again.”
He added that he gave specific instructions to ensure the operation took place on Christmas Day.
“I specifically told Pete, I said hit them on Christmas Day, not earlier and not later. And man, did he hit them. So then we hit them again recently. We hit them again pretty hard,” Trump said.
Source: naijanews.com
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https://www.naijanews.com/2026/02/06/they-still-dont-know-what-happened-trump-reveals-why-he-ordered-sokoto-airstrike-on-christmas-day/
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Defence HQ Reveals Why Terrorists Carried Out Mass Killings In Kwara Community
06 February 2026
The Defence Headquarters, Abuja, has said the deadly attack on Woro and neighbouring communities in Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State was carried out by terrorists angered by the villagers’ refusal to submit to ideological indoctrination.
The military described the incident as a cowardly terrorist attack that resulted in the loss of innocent lives.
In a statement issued on Thursday and signed by the Director of Defence Information, Samaila Uba, the Defence Headquarters said the attackers had earlier entered Woro village seeking permission to conduct preaching and indoctrination sessions.
According to the DHQ, the villagers rejected the request outright.
“The assailants had earlier requested to conduct preaching and indoctrination sessions, which the villagers refused,” the statement said.
The military said it was alerted to the initial threat and promptly deployed troops to the area, where robust patrols, surveillance, and other security measures were sustained for about two weeks.
“However, weeks after the troops withdrew, the cowardly terrorists returned to kill innocent citizens in protest and in a bid to terrorise inhabitants and others,” the DHQ said.
Over 170 residents were killed during the Tuesday attack.
The Armed Forces of Nigeria praised residents of Woro and neighbouring communities for their resilience and refusal to abandon their way of life or constitutional loyalty despite threats.
“The AFN mourns with the families of those who have lost loved ones in these and other similar brutal attacks on defenceless citizens defending community values and freedom across Nigeria,” the statement read.
The DHQ urged Nigerians to remain steadfast in their faith in the Constitution and resist ideological indoctrination by violent extremist groups, warning that such groups seek to impose “twisted beliefs through terror and intimidation.”
It also called for stronger cooperation between citizens and security agencies, insisting that unity and resilience remain Nigeria’s strongest defence against terrorism.
Reaffirming its commitment, the DHQ said efforts were being intensified, in collaboration with other security agencies, to track down and prosecute those responsible for the Kaiama attack and other terrorist acts nationwide.
Meanwhile, Amnesty International has condemned the escalating wave of killings and abductions across Nigeria, warning that the persistent bloodshed reflects a failure by authorities to protect lives and property.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the organisation said Nigerians were increasingly unsafe as gunmen and criminal gangs operate with near-total impunity in several states.
Amnesty described Tuesday, February 3, 2026, as a “Bloody Tuesday,” following coordinated attacks across the country.
According to the group, deadly assaults were recorded in Woro and Nuku communities in Kwara State, Doma Tafoki in Katsina State, and Abande in Benue State, where scores of residents were reportedly killed.
“Alarming escalation of attacks, abductions for ransom and frequent killings across Nigeria have left people feeling more unsafe, showing utter failure of the Nigerian authorities to protect lives and properties,” Amnesty said.
Source: naijanews.com
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https://www.naijanews.com/2026/02/05/just-in-defence-hq-reveals-why-terrorists-carried-out-mass-killings-in-kwara-community/
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Abducted Kaduna Christians Regain Freedom
06 February 2026
Worshippers abducted from three churches in Kurmin Wali community, Kajuru Local Government Area of Kaduna State, have regained their freedom, community sources have confirmed.
A resident told TheCable on Wednesday that the remaining Christians held by the gunmen have now been released, bringing an end to the mass abduction that occurred last month.
Gunmen had stormed three churches in the community on January 18, abducting about 167 worshippers during church services. The police initially denied the incident but later confirmed that the abductions had taken place.
On February 1, 80 of the abducted worshippers were released, leaving others still in captivity until their release this week.
The source disclosed that the freed worshippers are currently in the custody of the Kaduna State Government, pending an official announcement.
As of the time of filing this report, authorities have not disclosed whether any ransom was paid or if security operations led to their release.
Source: naijanews.com
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https://www.naijanews.com/2026/02/05/abducted-kaduna-christians-regain-freedom/
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Muslim Hands opens first school in Nigeria
By : Shakirah Adunola
6 February 2026
Muslim Hands International (MHI) has officially inaugurated the Muslim Hands Toyibat School of Excellence in Lagos. The opening marks a significant milestone for the UK-headquartered NGO, representing its first permanent educational institution in Nigeria after 35 years of global humanitarian operations.
For decades, the name “Toyibat” has been synonymous with Islamic education in Nigeria, the historic site in Medina Estate, Gbagada, the school was originally the brainchild of the late Alhaja Toyibat Yusuf, a pioneering educationist who established the first Islamic private school in Nigeria in the late 1970s.
According to the organization’s leadership, the facility, dedicated to orphans and children from vulnerable backgrounds, is designed to be more than a traditional classroom.
Addressing a crowd of local dignitaries, parents and community leaders, the chairman and founder of Muslim Hands International, Syed Lakhte Hassanain, said the NGO is not in Nigeria for business but to empower the youth with education. “We are not here for business; we are here to empower.”
He detailed an ambitious roadmap for the site, which will eventually house specialized centers for Information Technology, mechanics and Artificial Intelligence. The goal, he stated, is to provide intensive training ranging from six months to two years, ensuring graduates can bypass the cycle of unemployment.
Despite its religious roots, the organization’s leadership was keen to stress a policy of strict political neutrality and secular inclusivity.
“We have never been involved in local or religious politics in our 35 years of existence,” Hassanain asserted. “The children are the future; if we play politics, we destroy them. Non-Muslim children can and should attend our schools because every child deserves quality education.”
The Lagos State government, represented by Orunsolu Ismaheel Adebayo on behalf of the Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, welcomed the partnership. In a statement reflecting the state’s “THEMES” agenda, the government acknowledged that the burden of educating Nigeria’s youth cannot be carried by the public sector alone.
“Education is a universal language; it connects nations and bridges cultures,” Adebayo said. “Strategic partnerships with credible organizations such as Muslim Hands are indispensable in delivering education that is not only academically rigorous but morally grounded.”
The school sits on a site formerly managed by a local proprietor. The transition was marked by an emotional tribute from the son of the late former owner, Mr. Kola James, who thanked the charity for sustaining the legacy of his mother’s commitment to the community.
A member of MHI Board of Trustees, Mawlana Jeelani Ghulam, who remarked that the charity’s mission transcends skin color or ethnic background. “The Lagos project joins a network of over 100 schools managed by Muslim Hands across 30 countries.”
MHI Global Director of Education, Muhammad Zahid Azeez, noted that the organization currently oversees 600 government-partnered schools worldwide, utilizing a diverse pedagogical approach that draws from MHI, Nigeria Director, Nurudeen Ibrahim, confirmed that initial investments have been directed toward modernizing laboratories and beautifying classrooms to create an environment conducive to high-level learning.
As curtains felled on the ceremony with commendations from leaders of MUSWEN (Muslim Ummah of South West Nigeria) – Alhaji Rasaki Oladejo and Alhaji Rafiu Ebiti, the message was clear: the Toyibat School of Excellence is poised to be a blueprint for future technical and AI-focused institutions across the country.
Source: guardian.ng
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https://guardian.ng/news/nigeria/national/muslim-hands-opens-first-school-in-nigeria/
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Drought a ‘ticking time bomb’ and humanitarian disaster, Muslim leaders warn
05 February 2026
The Supreme Council of Kenya Muslims has warned that the worsening drought is now a full-scale humanitarian emergency, urging swift national action to save lives and livelihoods.
In a press statement signed by National Chairman Al-Hajj Hassan Ole Naado, the council said the unfolding crisis goes far beyond agriculture.
It described the situation as “not just an agricultural crisis; it is a humanitarian disaster that threatens the very fabric of our communities.”
The statement links rising hunger to a severe shortage of water, saying both problems are tightly connected.
Citing the Kenya Drought Report by the International Federation of the Red Cross, the council noted that the food-insecure population rose significantly in the February–March 2025 period compared to the previous year.
Al-Hajj Hassan Ole Naado said the figures show a deepening emergency that cannot be ignored. He stressed that the crisis is “deeply intertwined with a critical lack of water access, which is equally urgent and devastating.”
According to the statement, access to clean and safe water has become “critically limited.”
Families are struggling to secure water for domestic use and for their livestock. Livestock are described as essential to livelihoods in the affected regions.
The council warned that the combined pressure of hunger and thirst is a ticking time bomb that could result in “irreversible suffering and loss” if not addressed.
Al-Hajj Hassan Ole Naado issued an urgent appeal to the state to step in with immediate support.
The council said, “We urgently call upon the Government of Kenya to mobilize its water resources, including water tankers from the National Youth Service, the Military, and the Ministry of Water Resources, to provide immediate help and support to the affected communities.”
He added that such a coordinated effort is “essential for alleviating the suffering and preventing further loss of life and livelihoods.”
The statement outlines the scale of exposure across the country. Kenya has 23 Arid and Semi-Arid Land counties, nine classified as arid and fourteen as semi-arid. These areas are identified as the hardest hit.
The council said the effects of climate change and inadequate rainfall have compounded long-standing vulnerabilities faced by local communities.
Poor rainfall has worsened the situation. The below-normal short rains between October and December 2024 “severely stressed agricultural production and water availability.”
Al-Hajj Hassan Ole Naado said these failures “reversed the gains made in previous seasons,” leading to a renewed slide into both food and water insecurity.
Several factors are blamed for the deterioration. The statement lists “widespread crop failures, low agricultural productivity, high fuel and fertilizer costs, and increased pests and diseases.”
The impact is not limited to food shortages. The council said the consequences are affecting “health, education, and economic stability in these communities.”
By late 2025 and early 2026, conditions had worsened sharply. The council said millions are now at risk. Communities in ASAL counties are facing “severe hardships,” with warnings that vulnerabilities may persist until the next rainy season.
Framing the situation as a shared duty, Al-Hajj Hassan Ole Naado said the country is facing a crisis that demands immediate and concerted action.
The council called on the national government, county governments in affected areas, Muslim well-wishers, institutions and partners to mobilise emergency resources.
It reported that local populations are sending distress calls as livestock losses rise and water shortages become more critical.
The chairman also made a direct appeal to the Head of State. “We call upon the President of the Republic of Kenya, His Excellency William Ruto, to declare a national emergency.”
The statement says such a move is vital to facilitate the mobilisation and deployment of necessary resources to combat this worsening situation.
The message is framed within a religious context. The statement opens with a verse from the Holy Quran: “We will certainly test you with a touch of fear and famine and loss of property, life, and crops. Give good news to those who patiently endure-who say, when struck by a disaster, ‘Surely to Allah we belong and to Him is our return."
As Ramadhan approaches, the council linked the appeal to the spirit of the season.
It described the period as a month dedicated to compassion and generosity, and urged all stakeholders-government, NGOs, and individuals-to respond to this urgent crisis.
The statement concludes, “Together, we can alleviate the suffering of our fellow Kenyans, embodying the spirit of solidarity that defines our shared humanity.”
Source: the-star.co.ke
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https://www.the-star.co.ke/news/2026-02-05-muslim-council-sounds-alarm-over-worsening-drought-crisis
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Kwara Killings: Details Of Meeting Between Gov. Abdulrasaq And President Tinubu Emerge
06 February 2026
President Bola Tinubu has directed the military to wipe out the terrorists who attacked residents of Kiama Local Government Area in Kwara State and ensure total peace is restored in the area.
This was confirmed by Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq while speaking to journalists in Abuja on Thursday, after meeting behind closed doors with President Tinubu at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.
The Governor disclosed that based on the President’s directive, the first commander for Operation Savannah Shield has reported in Kwara State, and he’s hitting the ground running.
Governor Abdulrazaq said his visit to the Villa was to brief the president on what happened in Kwara and thank him for the prompt response and support received in ensuring the situation is brought under control as fast as possible.
He said: “Yes, I came to brief Mr. President about what happened in Kaiama local government of Kwara State and also to thank him for the prompt action taken by the President by establishing Operation Savannah Shield. That will go a long way in deterring and bringing calm to the region in Kwara State.
“Well, after meeting the President, I’m confident because as I speak to you, the first commander for Operation Savannah Shield has reported in Kwara State, Ilorin today, and he’s hitting the ground running and we rely on the military to do what they do best.
“Mr. President has directed the armed forces to move in and to clean up the place and make sure peace and calm are restored.”
Source: naijanews.com
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://www.naijanews.com/2026/02/05/kwara-killings-details-of-meeting-between-gov-abdulrasaq-and-president-tinubu-emerge/
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‘For What Reason’ – Sheikh Gumi Opens Up On Arrest By US Troops
06 February 2026
Controversial Islamic cleric, Sheikh Ahmed Gumi, has dismissed claims circulating on social media that he was arrested by United States military personnel in Nigeria, describing the reports as false and misleading.
The cleric reacted after a viral image surfaced online on Thursday, February 5, allegedly showing him being apprehended by US troops at an airport in Nigeria.
The image, which spread rapidly across social media platforms, was accompanied by claims that the incident was part of an international counterterrorism operation involving foreign forces operating in Nigeria.
Some posts further alleged that Gumi was intercepted while attempting to flee the country to Turkey amid suspicions linking him to terrorist groups and their operational camps.
Speaking to SaharaReporters on Thursday via telephone, Gumi categorically denied the claims, questioning the logic behind the narrative.
“The US Army cannot arrest me in Nigeria. Why will the US Army come and arrest me in Nigeria, for what reason?” he asked.
Gumi also faulted the authenticity of the viral image, insisting that it was not real but artificially created.
“The image is Artificial Intelligence (AI)-generated. Even a layman will know that the image is AI,” he said, stressing that the visuals were fabricated and should not be taken seriously.
He concluded by reaffirming his status, saying, “I have not been arrested.”
Gumi, a prominent Islamic cleric, has remained a controversial public figure due to his past engagements with armed groups and comments that many Nigerians view as sympathetic to bandits.
In 2021, he came under intense national scrutiny after holding meetings with leaders of bandit groups in parts of Kaduna, Zamfara, and other north-west states as part of efforts to negotiate the release of abducted victims.
While some of these engagements led to the release of captives, earning him praise from affected families and local communities, his actions also triggered concern within Nigeria’s security establishment.
Source: naijanews.com
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https://www.naijanews.com/2026/02/05/for-what-reason-sheikh-gumi-opens-up-on-arrest-by-us-troops/
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South Asia
UN Warns ISIS in Iraq and Afghanistan Remains Global Security Threat
By Fidel Rahmati
February 5, 2026
The United Nations has warned that Islamic State (ISIS) and its Khorasan branch in Afghanistan continue to pose a serious threat to regional and global security.
Alexander Zuev, UN Assistant Secretary-General for Counter-Terrorism, told the Security Council that ISIS-K remains one of the most dangerous terror threats in and beyond the region.
He noted that although the number of attacks has declined, ISIS-K continues to rebuild its ranks quickly and recruit supporters through online networks.
Zuev also referenced a recent attack in Kabul claimed by ISIS-K that killed seven people and injured several others, including a child.
Representatives of the United States, Britain, China, and Pakistan echoed concerns during the meeting, calling for continued international cooperation against terrorism threats linked to Afghanistan.
Following territorial defeats in Iraq and Syria, ISIS has shifted operations toward regions including Afghanistan and parts of Africa, where affiliated groups remain active and adaptable.
Meanwhile, Taliban authorities reject claims that ISIS maintains a significant presence in Afghanistan, insisting the group has been defeated and no foreign militant groups operate from Afghanistan territory.
Despite differing assessments, UN officials stress that sustained global coordination is necessary to prevent ISIS and its affiliates from regaining strength and destabilizing the region.
Source: khaama.com
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https://www.khaama.com/un-warns-isis-in-iraq-and-afghanistan-remains-global-security-threat/
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Concerns About Afghanistan's Security Are Unfounded: IEA
05 February 2026
Mawlavi Zabihullah Mujahid, the spokesman for the Islamic Emirate, responded to recent discussions at the UN Security Council, stating that these concerns were not based on reality. He emphasized thate Afghanistan's absence from the meeting denied it the opportunity to present its documented position and facts.
"Some countries are exploiting this vacuum to propagate false narratives about Afghanistan's security," Mujahid asserted.
He further reassured that Afghanistan is safe and free from foreign interference: "There are no foreign or arbitrary groups here." Addressing the issue of ISIS, Mujahid noted that the group has been defeated within Afghanistan but unfortunately has taken root in neighboring areas.
"When we say that Afghanistan's soil will not be used against anyone, it means there is no need for concern," he concluded.
Source: bakhtarnews.af
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https://www.bakhtarnews.af/en/Concerns-About-Afghanistans-Security-Are-Unfounded-IEA
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A 36-page dream: Jamaat promises prosperity, but the math doesn’t add up
06 Feb 2026
Jamaat-e-Islami may be accused of many things but low ambition cannot be among them, at least not according to its election manifesto. The party’s list of pledges feels less like a governing document and more like an exhaustive list of promises gesturing towards a happily-ever-after nation, while leaving questions of plausibility and execution largely unexplored.
A large portion of the voluminous manifesto coincides with provisions and recommendations of the July charter that the party had signed. There are, however, several sections that warrant attention. The 36-page document with just over 14,000 words covers almost every facet of public life worth mentioning—from a promise to allow freight trucks in Dhaka only between 11:00pm and 6:00am to the lofty dream of growing Bangladesh’s economy by almost four times to become a $2-trillion-dollar economy by 2040.
This economic prosperity will presumably come on the back of a 7% GDP growth, which by the way would only take us up to about $1.3 trillion and simple projection models show that the benchmark of $2 trillion dollars would require a nearly double-digit annual growth for 15 years.
Be that as it may, whether it is growth, education stipends or health benefits, Jamaat does not quite outline how it would achieve this in the five years they would have, to govern.
For instance, foreign direct investment will be increased to $15 billion by 2030, or the provision of Tk 10,000 loan for 100,000 meritorious students for up to five years, or tripling the health budget in phases are so matter-of-factly mentioned that it is no more than scheduling the entry of trucks into Dhaka. Notably, however, the manifesto is completely silent about economic disparity. Other lofty pledges include $5 billion worth of exports and 2 million jobs in ICT sector by 2030, another five million jobs through government initiatives, 500 international standard athletes in five years, 1.5 million freelancers through e-hubs at upazilas and 500,000 new entrepreneurs within five years.
While there is no outright pledge to establish a theocratic state based on the shariah, the manifesto clearly announces that religious edicts will become more significant so far as finance and banking is concerned. It promises support for growth and success of Islamic banking and insurance, new laws and legal reforms to support Islamic insurance, and even shariah compliant financing mechanisms in agriculture.
Islamic shariah will play a significant role in personal law and family courts as the manifesto pledges to reform and preserve them in light of religion. Jamaat also pledges to bring significant reforms in education to regulate the different streams. The manifesto outlines four streams after the eighth grade—Islamic, science, general, and technical education through the higher secondary levels. There will also be funds and facilities, special institutes and sponsorships for Islamic scholarship.
The foreign policy section must be mentioned, even if passingly, because of its rather conspicuous omission of Pakistan. It pledges to build a peaceful, friendly, and cooperative relations with “neighbouring and nearby countries—including India, Bhutan, Nepal, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Maldives, and Thailand—based on mutual respect and fairness”. It is immediately followed by, “The strengthening of relations with countries of the Muslim world shall be a key foreign policy priority”, which reads more like a compensatory afterthought.
Under labour and employment, the manifesto clarifies the five-hour workday issue that appears to be persistently hounding the Jamaat chief. The party pledges, “safe and dignified working environments for women” and adds, “During maternity, with the mother’s consent, working hours will be reduced to five hours per day.”
Although the Jamaat leader, Shafiqur Rahman, had told Al-Jazeera that a woman could never be the head of his part considering the social reality of Bangladesh, the manifesto pledges that women, ethnic minorities and religious minorities will have significant representation Jamaat’s cabinet. That would be quite a tall order, since Jamaat has nominated no women, and one Hindu in the upcoming election.
The manifesto reiterates the party’s pledge to protect women and ensure their safety. Towards the very end of the document, under the section “Inclusive state for all”, it elaborates on this vision for “Women will move without fear.” The measures—dedicated bus services, CCTV cameras, separate compartments in double-decker buses and emergency helpline numbers— suggest a tendency to further segregate women in the name of protection. It pledges “religious awareness initiatives” to ensure women’s rights to property and VAT exemption from all children’s food products.
Given Jamaat’s history and controversial role in the liberation war, its pledge to adopt programmes to “firmly establish the ideals and objectives of the Great Liberation War—equality, human dignity, and social justice—within state and national life” does merit some scrutiny. Another pledge, which reads, “The accurate history of the Liberation War will be presented to students,” appears to suggest that this was not the case till now and thus, that history might need some revisions if Jamaat comes to power. Source: thedailystar.net
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Govt approves 6 ordinances, 3 proposals, Ramadan office timing
05 Feb 2026
DHAKA, Feb 5, 2026 (BSS) - The Council of Advisers at its weekly meeting today gave approval to six ordinances and three proposals along with discussing the interim government’s performance since its inception in August 2024.
Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus chaired the meeting at his office in the city's Tejgaon area this morning.
Later, Chief Adviser's Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam briefed the media at the Foreign Service Academy here this afternoon, saying the advisory council discussed a series of agenda and gave approvals.
The advisory council gave final approval to the drafts of the Workplace and Educational Institutions Ordinance 2026, the Domestic Violence Prevention Ordinance 2026, the Bangladesh Gas (Amendment) Ordinance, 2026, the Postal Service Ordinance, 2026, the Bangladesh Forest Industries Development Corporation Ordinance 2026 and the Bangabandhu National Agriculture Award Trust (Amendment) Ordinance, 2026.
The press secretary said that due to the approval of the draft of the Bangabandhu National Agriculture Award Trust (Amendment) Ordinance, 2026, the name of the award will now be changed to the National Agriculture Award.
Besides, the Council approved a proposal to exempt 7.5 percent VAT on LP gas at local production and trader-level and 2 percent advance tax on import while imposing only a 7.5 percent VAT at the import stage of LP gas.
As a result of this decision, Shafiqul Alam said, the overall tax burden on LP gas will reduce, which is expected to lead to a further decline in LP gas prices in the local market.
The advisory council also approved another proposal to establish the Urban Safety and Resilience Institute (USRI) Bangladesh as a public trust under the Ministry of Housing and Public Works.
While the name may be changed in the future, the press secretary said, the proposal for establishing the institution has been approved.
Besides, the advisers approved the proposal fixing office hours during the upcoming holy month of Ramadan. As per the decision, the office hours will be from 9:00 am to 3:30 pm, with a 15-minute break from 1:00 pm to 1:15 pm for Zuhr prayers.
Source: bssnews.net
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LG Electronics partners with Transcom Electronics to expand distribution in Bangladesh
5 FEBRUARY 2026
LG Electronics has entered into a strategic partnership with Transcom Electronics Limited to expand the distribution and after-sales service of its consumer electronics in Bangladesh.
Under the agreement, Transcom Electronics Limited will act as the official retail distributor and after-sales service provider for LG products, including televisions, refrigerators, washing machines, microwave ovens and other home appliances.
The soft launch ceremony was held at a five-star hotel in Cox’s Bazar on February 5, 2026. Senior officials from both organisations attended the event. From LG Electronics Bangladesh, Managing Director Gerald Chun, Ashiqul Islam, Media and Home Solutions Team Leader, and HM Shahriar Reza, Eco Solutions Team Leader, were present. Transcom Electronics Limited was represented by COO Shahidul Islam, CFO Shib Pada Day, Head of Business (TD) Rashedul Islam, along with other senior officials.
The partnership is aimed at expanding customer access to LG consumer electronics across the country by utilising Transcom’s nationwide retail and service network.
“Our partnership with Transcom Electronics Limited marks a significant step in expanding LG’s footprint in Bangladesh,” said Gerald Chun. “Together, we aim to deliver innovative products and superior service to meet the evolving needs of Bangladeshi households.”
Shahidul Islam said, “We are proud to collaborate with LG Electronics, a global leader in technology. This partnership will allow us to provide customers with world-class products backed by trusted service.”
LG Electronics said the collaboration reflects its continued focus on strengthening its presence in Bangladesh’s consumer electronics market through wider distribution and structured after-sales support.
Source: thedailystar.net
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Killing Of Osman Hadi: Govt decides to propose UN probe
06 Feb 2026
The interim government has decided to propose an investigation by the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights into the killing of Inqilab Moncho spokesperson Sharif Osman Hadi.
The decision was announced yesterday through a social media post by Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam.
Earlier in the day, leaders and activists of Inqilab Moncho staged a sit-in outside Jamuna, the official residence of the chief adviser, demanding a UN-supervised investigation into Hadi’s killing. The demonstration began around 3:30pm.
During the sit-in, Inqilab Moncho Member Secretary Abdullah Al Jaber told reporters that the protest was organised with a limited number of participants due to security concerns.
He said they would not leave the site without assurances of justice, adding that the Inqilab Moncho would remain on the streets until the demand was not met.
Sources said eight to ten activists initially joined the protests, including Jaber, Dhaka University Central Students’ Union (Ducsu) Liberation War and Democratic Movements Affairs Secretary Fatima Tasnim Zuma, and Hadi’s wife, Rabaya Islam Shampa.
In the evening, protesters issued a one-hour ultimatum, which expired without any response from the authorities.
Meanwhile, another sit-in involving several hundred people was held outside Hotel InterContinental, prompting police to erect barricades and halt vehicular movement in the area.
Around 12:30am today, Abdullah Al Jaber, in front of Hotel InterContinental, said the government must take formal steps to investigate the assassination through the UN and inform the nation accordingly. “Our movement will continue today, and a new programme will be announced after Friday prayers,” he said.
Ashraful Alam Hannan, an Inqilab Moncho activist, alleged that the accused in Hadi’s killing remain at large and that the investigation has seen little progress.
Sharif Osman Hadi was shot in Dhaka’s Paltan on December 12 last year and died in Singapore on December 18 while undergoing treatment.
On February 3, the Dhaka Metropolitan Police imposed a ban on rallies and gatherings around Jamuna.
DMP Assistant Commissioner (Ramna Zone) Mazharul Islam said protesters had split into two groups and that police were on alert.
Source: thedailystar.net
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Presidential Address 2026: President announces 90 Islamic sector projects carried out in 2025; eight mosques to be inaugurated by Ramadan
05 February 2026
President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has announced that 90 projects in the Islamic sector were were carried out last year, and that eight mosques across various parts of the country will be inaugurated ahead of the upcoming month of Ramadan.
The President made these remarks this morning whilst delivering the Presidential Address at the first sitting of the first session of the 20th People's Majlis for the year.
Highlighting that mosques, as a place of worship to Allah, represent some of the most prestigious and enduring structures in Islamic history, the President emphasised that, as an Islamic nation, the Maldives must continue to reflect and uphold these values.
He noted that the 90 projects included the construction of 74 mosques, seven Islamic centres, three Holy Quran centres, and six Waqf buildings. In addition, the Islamic Centre in HA. Dhidhdhoo has been completed, while mosque construction on 10 islands has also been finalised. Emphasising preparations for Ramadan, the President stated that special priority had been given to renovating mosques that will be in use during the holy month. He noted that more than MVR 19 million was spent on mosque renovations nationwide last year, with a further MVR 15 million allocated for the same purpose this year.
The President also highlighted progress in Quranic education, stating that the monthly stipend for memorising the Holy Quran was increased from MVR 2,000 to MVR 4,000 last year. He reported that 30 Huffaz graduated during the year – the highest number recorded in the Maldives’ history.
As part of the Government’s efforts to further promote devotion to and memorisation of the Holy Quran, the President said initiatives were launched last year to establish a Holy Quran Centre on every inhabited island by 2028. He also announced that construction of a Waqf building in Malé, aimed at supporting Quranic education through a sustainable financing system, will commence this year.
Additionally, the President announced that the planning and organisation of the National Quran Recitation Competition will be fully funded through the Government budget. He stated that prize money for competition winners will be doubled and that, for the first time, the first-place winner will be awarded a Presidential Scholarship to pursue higher studies up to a PhD in any field and in any country of their choice.
In his address, the President further noted that the Maldives became a permanent member of the Makkah Route Initiative last year, significantly easing the Hajj process for Maldivians. He also announced that an agreement has been reached with a hospital in Saudi Arabia to provide free healthcare services, and that work has begun to establish a medical clinic at the hotel where Maldivian pilgrims stay, to safeguard their well-being.
The President emphasised that, for the first time in the nation’s history, a Zakat Act has been enacted. He stated that Government efforts to strengthen and formalise the Zakat system have increased public trust, resulting in higher collections. Notably, he revealed that Zakat contributions exceeded MVR 100 million for the first time last year.
Source: presidency.gov.mv
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Mideast
January settler attacks cause record West Bank displacement since October 2023: UN
February 05, 2026
RAMALLAH: Israeli settler violence and harassment in the occupied West Bank displaced nearly 700 Palestinians in January, the United Nations said Thursday, the highest rate since the Gaza war erupted in October 2023.
At least 694 Palestinians were forcefully driven from their homes last month, according to figures from the UN’s humanitarian agency OCHA, which compiles data from various United Nations agencies.
The UN Human Rights Office (OHCHR) said in late January that settler violence has become a key driver of forced displacement in the West Bank.
January’s displacement numbers were particularly high in part due to the displacement of an entire herding community in the Jordan Valley, Ras Ein Al-Auja, whose 130 families left after months of harassment.
“What is happening today is the complete collapse of the community as a result of the settlers’ continuous and repeated attacks, day and night, for the past two years,” Farhan Jahaleen, a Bedouin resident, told AFP at the time.
Settlers in the West Bank, which Israel has occupied since 1967, use herding to establish a presence on agricultural lands used by Palestinian communities and gradually deny them access to these areas, according to a 2025 report by Israeli NGO Peace Now.
To force Palestinians out, settlers resort to harassment, intimidation and violence, “with the backing of the Israeli government and military,” the settlement watchdog said.
“No one is putting the pressure on Israel or on the Israeli authorities to stop this and so the settlers feel it, they feel the complete impunity that they’re just free to continue to do this,” said Allegra Pacheco, director of the West Bank Protection Consortium, a group of NGOS working to support Palestinian communities against displacement.
She pointed to a lack of attention on the West Bank as another driving factor.
“All eyes are focused on Gaza when it comes to Palestine, while we have an ongoing ethnic cleansing in the West Bank and nobody’s paying attention,” she told AFP.
West Bank Palestinians are also displaced when Israel’s military destroys structures and dwellings it says are built without permits.
In January, 182 more Palestinians were displaced due to home demolitions, according to OCHA.
Excluding Israeli-annexed east Jerusalem, the West Bank is home to more than 500,000 Israelis living in settlements and outposts considered illegal under international law.
Around three million Palestinians live in the West Bank.
Source: arabnews.com
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Activists plan new, bigger flotilla to try to bring aid to Gaza
February 05, 2026
JOHANNESBURG: Activists behind a flotilla intercepted at sea last year by Israel while trying to bring aid to Gaza will try again this year, expecting more than twice as many boats carrying up to 1,000 medics, they said on Thursday.
The Israeli military halted the roughly 40 boats in the Global Sumud Flotilla last October as ?they attempted ?to reach blockaded Gaza, arresting Swedish ?activist ?Greta Thunberg and more ?than 450 other participants.
Organizers, who gathered on Wednesday at the foundation of late South African leader Nelson Mandela in Johannesburg, said they hope to bring 100 boats for their next attempt.
“It is a cause ... for those that want to rise and stand for justice and dignity for all,” Mandela’s ?grandson Mandla Mandela, who was among activists detained last time, told the ?gathering. “We want to mobilize the ... global ?community to join forces with us.”
Israeli ?officials repeatedly denounced last year’s mission, and previous smaller-scale ?attempts to reach Gaza by sea, as publicity stunts.
Israel, which controls all access to the Gaza Strip, denies withholding supplies for its more than 2 million residents. Palestinians and international aid bodies say supplies reaching the territory are still insufficient, despite a ceasefire reached in October which included guarantees of ?increased aid.
Following the ceasefire, Israeli forces now control more than 53 percent of the Gaza Strip where they have ordered residents out. Nearly the entire population is crowded into a narrow strip along the coast, mostly living in makeshift tents and damaged buildings.
If the flotilla is blocked again, the activists said it would still be worth it to highlight Gaza’s plight.
“We may not have reached Gaza physically (but) we have reached ... the people in Gaza,” said one of the activists, Susan Abdallah. “They ?know that we care, that we will not stop at anything until we actually break the siege.”
Source: arabnews.com
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Syrian, Iraqi authorities seize 300,000 Captagon pills in Homs
February 05, 2026
LONDON: Syria’s Narcotics Department, in collaboration with Iraq’s General Directorate for Narcotics and Psychotropic Substances Affairs, thwarted an attempt to smuggle drugs across the border.
The Interior Ministry announced on Thursday a joint security operation targeting an international criminal network in the Homs governorate of northern Syria, involved in the manufacture, promotion and smuggling of narcotics.
Authorities seized about 300,000 tablets of the narcotic substance Captagon and arrested two suspects attempting to smuggle these substances into Syria to distribute them in the region later.
The two suspects are wanted internationally for drug trafficking, and one of them is a foreign national, according to the ministry.
In January, authorities in Syria and Iraq targeted an international drug smuggling network, leading to the seizure of about 2.5 million Captagon pills and the arrest of several individuals in both countries involved in criminal activity.
Source: arabnews.com
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Palestinian president receives draft of constitution ahead of elections
February 05, 2026
LONDON: Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas has received a draft of the provisional constitution as the Palestinian Authority prepares to conduct elections this year.
Abbas said on Thursday that the drafting of the provisional Palestinian constitution would pave the way for the transition from the current Palestinian Authority to a fully fledged state, which to date about 160 countries have recognized.
Palestinian local elections are scheduled for April, while the Palestinian National Council elections are to take place in November, according to a decree issued by Abbas last week. The latter are for the Palestine Liberation Organization’s parliament and it will be the first time members are elected by direct popular vote, rather than appointed or co-opted.
Counselor Muhammad Al-Hajj Qasim led the drafting committee, which worked for about seven months and held 70 meetings. It consulted various civil society organizations and relevant stakeholders, according to the WAFA News Agency.
Qasim said the draft constitution maintained political pluralism and the separation of powers, while allowing parliament to carry out its oversight and legislative responsibilities. A copy of the draft will be submitted to the PLO’s Executive Committee.
The last national election for Palestinians was in 2006 but they voted for local representatives in 2021.
The Palestinian Legislative Council has not convened since 2007. Abbas dissolved the parliament in 2018 after it had remained inactive for over a decade, largely due to a rift between Fatah and Hamas, and the arrest of several MPs, primarily from Hamas, by the Israeli authorities.
Source: arabnews.com
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Syria, Russia discuss cooperation on railway development
February 05, 2026
LONDON: Syrian and Russian officials discussed the possibility of Moscow assisting in the development of Syria’s railway network as part of a collaborative effort to modernize the country’s transport infrastructure.
Syrian Transport Minister Yarub Badr on Thursday in Damascus had talks with Russian Minister of Construction, Housing and Utilities Irek Faizullin, and Igor Levitin, an adviser to the Russian president and former transport minister.
The talks assessed the condition of Syria’s railway lines, the damage caused by the war, the estimated costs of rehabilitation, and technical requirements, including signaling, communications, and locomotive systems, according to the Syrian Arab News Agency.
The two parties also discussed collaboration in maintenance, locomotive overhauls, and the potential supply of new locomotives. They explored proposals for joint projects, financing options, and a plan to connect the railway network with Tartous Port and phosphate mines to enhance logistics.
The meeting emphasized training local specialists through programs and scholarships at Russian universities to enhance Syrian-Russian cooperation in transport, SANA added.
Source: arabnews.com
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Questions around a compound of Shiite refugees from Syria in Lebanon show lingering post-Assad fears
February 05, 2026
HERMEL, Lebanon: A walled compound in Lebanon housing hundreds of people who fled their homes in Syria after the fall of Bashar Assad over a year ago has drawn allegations that the residents are Assad loyalists, which they deny.
The attention on the compound in Hermel town highlights the sensitivities around Syria’s transformation after a long civil war, suspicions that can linger about identity and minorities’ fear of retaliation.
The Associated Press visited the 228-unit compound in northeastern Lebanon along Syria’s border. It is decorated with posters of Assad allies including Iranian religious leaders and generals as well as fallen commanders of Lebanon’s militant Hezbollah group.
The residents of the Imam Ali Housing Compound are mostly Shiite Muslims. They include scores of Lebanese who had lived for generations in Syrian villages near the Lebanese border.
Army sweeps find no illegal activity
Allegations by media outlets that residents were conspiring against Syria’s new Sunni Islamist rulers have led to several raids by the Lebanese army, which later announced it found no armed activities.
Meanwhile, some have alleged that the Iran-backed Hezbollah is using the compound to recruit fighters after its heavy losses during and after its latest war with Israel.
Ghada Ayoub, a legislator with the anti-Hezbollah Lebanese Forces Party, said last month that she has formally asked the government about the building of the compound without state supervision “by an armed group” in a sensitive border area. Ayoub this week told the AP she did not receive any response and that she plans to follow up.
The Lebanese army last month said it conducted its latest sweep of the compound and did not find anything illegal.
Syrian citizen Mohammed Assoura, 57, and his wife moved into one of the housing units, consisting of a room, a small kitchen and a toilet, in October. Before that, they sheltered for months in a mosque and then at an apartment they rented for $150 a month, eventually leaving them broke.
“Do I look like a fuloul of the regime?” asked Assoura, smoking a cigarette as he sat cross-legged in his new home, referring to the Arabic word for “remnants.” The term is widely used to refer to Assad loyalists.
Assoura said he fled with his wife on a motorcycle to Lebanon after receiving calls from relatives warning them that Assad was overthrown. Concerns were high about retaliatory attacks on anyone seen as having supported his government or Lebanon’s Hezbollah.
Assoura pointed to a small bag in the corner, saying it was all he brought from Syria, with cash and identity cards. He now relies on aid from local nongovernmental organizations to survive and hopes to return to Syria soon.
An influx of refugees
During Syria’s civil war that broke out in 2011, Lebanon’s Hezbollah sent thousands of fighters to help Assad stay in power. They remained until insurgent groups marched into Damascus in December 2024, ending the 54-year rule of the Assad family.
The mayor of Hermel, Ali Taha, recounted how after the fall of Assad some 50,000 people fled from Syria to the town, doubling the population within hours. People filled mosques and schools, while others stayed with relatives or in tents set up in public gardens. Many later moved elsewhere in Lebanon.
Syria’s upheaval under Assad created more than 5 million refugees. Lebanon hosted an estimated 1.5 million of them. Some half-million Syrians have returned since Assad’s fall, according to Lebanon’s social affairs minister.
But tens of thousands of new refugees have fled to Lebanon. They are mainly Shiites as well as members of Syria’s minority Alawite sect after clashes between Assad’s supporters and the new authorities led to sectarian killings of hundreds of Alawite civilians.
Syria’s interim President Ahmad Al-Sharaa has promised to hold perpetrators of sectarian violence accountable, but minority communities remain wary.
The Hermel mayor said the idea for the compound as a place for those unable to pay rent came when classes resumed, highlighting the need to clear refugees from schools.
The municipality owned the land, and funding for the housing units came from Shiite religious institutions in Iraq and Iran, Taha said.
The mayor denied that the compound is being used to conspire against Syrian authorities, saying that would not be in the interest of the border region.
“The allegations regarding this facility are politically motivated,” Taha said.
The United Nations refugee agency said it had no presence at the camp and no information on what is happening inside.
‘Better than staying in tents’
Maha Al-Abeer, a Syrian widow from the border town of Qusair, lives in one of the housing units and has opened a grocery shop to support her son and four daughters.
“Thank God we are sheltered. It’s better than staying in tents and mosques,” said Al-Abeer, who also denied allegations about the camp.
Qusair was attacked and captured by Hezbollah in 2013, marking the group’s first public involvement in Syria’s conflict and leading to a rise in anti-Shiite sentiments among Syria’s Sunni majority.
Shayban Midlij, 73, and his wife, Ihasn, 70, both born in Fadlieh village just across the border, worked for decades in farming but left everything behind and fled after Assad’s fall, fearing reprisals by Sunni gunmen because they are Shiites.
They now share a unit in the compound with their daughter and her three children.
“Before moving here we were at a Shiite mosque. It was like hell,” said the wife, referring to the crowds and how illnesses easily spread.
She denied the presence of pro-Assad elements.
“We are all old people waiting to die and be buried,” she said.
Source: arabnews.com
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Arab World
Saudi leadership sends cables of condolences after passing of former Jordanian prime minister
February 05, 2026
RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman sent separate cables of condolence to Jordan’s King Abdullah II after the passing of former prime minister Ahmad Obeidat.
Obeidat was prime minister and minister of defense from 1984 to 1985, minister of interior between 1982 and 1984, and director of the General Intelligence Directorate between 1974 and 1982. He died on Monday at the age of 88.
King Salman extended his “deepest condolences” to King Abdullah and the family of the deceased, praying that God grant Obeidat forgiveness and have mercy on him.
The crown prince sent a similar cable to King Abdullah.
Source: arabnews.com
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Razan is a geotourism gem carved by time’s patient hands
February 06, 2026
AL-LITH: Sixty kilometers north of Al-Lith governorate in the Kingdom’s west, rising above the shifting sands and valleys of the Makkah region, lies a place where the earth itself tells a story.
This is Razan, a geological wonder where history is not written in ink but etched into the stone by the patient hands of wind, water and time, the Saudi Press Agency reported recently.
Perched atop a high rocky mass and flanked by valleys to the northwest and southeast, Razan stands in natural isolation. This geographic solitude has acted as a guardian, preserving a landscape that feels almost otherworldly — a pristine stage set by nature over millennia.
The place is defined by its striking rock formations: dense clusters of stone, stepped ridges that resemble ancient staircases, and natural ceilings sculpted by the relentless flow of seasonal torrents.
The visual impact is one of dramatic contrast — the heaviness of solid rock balanced against open, airy spaces carved by erosion.
Fine channels and intricate flow patterns mark the stone, serving as fossilized evidence of the water that once rushed through these corridors, shaping the land into a rugged work of art.
Nature’s infrastructure
But Razan is more than just a scenic marvel; for centuries, it served as a lifeline. The same forces that sculpted the cliffs also hollowed out natural rock basins.
These geological depressions acted as seasonal reservoirs, catching rainwater and supplementing nearby wells. Long before modern engineering, the geology of Razan functioned as effective natural infrastructure, sustaining life in an arid environment.
This utility made Razan a strategic landmark, playing a vital role in the ancient Yemeni Hajj Road. The sturdy, elevated terrain provided a natural pathway for pilgrims, offering stability and protection on their spiritual journey toward Makkah.
Today, Razan stands at the intersection of heritage and opportunity. No longer just a passage for pilgrims, it is emerging as a valuable asset for geotourism. Its unique topography offers a visual feast for travelers and a treasure trove for scientists studying geological history.
As Saudi Arabia moves toward the goals of Vision 2030, sites such as Razan are finding new purpose. By transforming this geological narrative into a tourism destination, the region aims to preserve its natural heritage while breathing new life into the local economy.
Source: arabnews.com
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Little Farm: A countryside escape in the heart of Jeddah
NADA HAMEED
February 06, 2026
During weekends, I always like to take my 18-month-old son somewhere that stimulates his senses and curiosity. While searching for family-friendly farms in Jeddah, I discovered Little Farm, located in the Al-Manarat district. With a 4.2 rating, it seemed like a convenient nearby option.
My first impression upon entering was very positive. The venue also hosts children’s themed parties, and the cashier explained the available activities, which cater to children as young as one year old. Visitors can access the animal farm area starting from SR39 for both adults and children.
Older children can participate in interactive experiences such as goat milking, which is offered for an additional fee. Visitors can also explore dedicated rabbit and cat halls, both available at an extra charge. These halls allow children to interact with animals from various breeds in a safe environment, under the supervision of trained animal specialists. Another section of the venue is the vertical farm zone, where families can explore hanging fruits and vegetables and learn about modern farming methods.
I purchased tickets for the animal farm and paid an additional SR25 for a basket of animal feed, which included cattle feed, bird food, clover, grains and lettuce. Visitors can keep the reusable straw basket for future visits. The dark brown basket with a blue base adds to the countryside aesthetic. The farm opens daily to visitors at 4:30 p.m.
The maze-like entrance creates the atmosphere of a secret garden. Visitors are first greeted by a group of large turkeys, loudly announcing their presence. I quickly moved toward the duck pond, as ducks are my son’s favorite birds. We enjoyed feeding them lettuce by the water. Both the ducks and the pond were clean, and the experience was enjoyable enough that my son wanted to stay there for the rest of the visit.
We then moved to the turtle enclosure, where the animals appeared active and eager to be fed. In the goat section, children were allowed to hold a baby goat, which quickly became a highlight for many families. We also fed goats and sheep, the farm indeed provided an engaging and educational experience for children. Ponies, cows, donkeys and geese were also there.
The farm provides a pleasant setting for capturing memorable photos, especially when children encounter farm animals for the first time. The reactions are truly priceless.
The animal shelters were clean and spacious, and the farm offers a good variety of animals. Staff members were helpful and welcoming, and overall prices were reasonable for the experience offered. For more information, check the farm’s Instagram account @littlefarmksa.
Source: arabnews.com
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Saudi crown prince receives written message from Maldives president
February 05, 2026
RIYADH: Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman received a written message from Mohamed Muizzu, president of the Maldives, regarding relations between the two countries, according to the Saudi Press Agency.
The message was received on behalf of the crown prince by Waleed Al-Khuraiji, the Saudi deputy minister of foreign affairs, during a meeting on Thursday with Ahmed Sareer, the Maldivian ambassador to the Kingdom, in Riyadh.
During the meeting, officials discussed Saudi-Maldivian relations and ways to enhance ties in various fields, the SPA added.
Source: arabnews.com
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Saudi industry vice minister inspects Eastern Province hubs
February 06, 2026
RIYADH: Saudi Vice Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources for Industrial Affairs Khalil bin Ibrahim bin Salamah visited several industrial cities in the Eastern Province on Thursday, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
These visits are part of the ministry’s ongoing efforts to support sustainable industrial development in the Kingdom.
During his visit, the vice minister reviewed the readiness of the industrial infrastructure in those cities and examined the production lines and operational process in several industrial facilities, as well as their growth and expansion plans, their latest practices to adopt automation solutions and advanced manufacturing technologies.
Source: arabnews.com
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Michelin Guide announces 3 new awards at restaurant celebration in Riyadh
NADA ALTURKI
February 05, 2026
RIYADH: The Michelin Guide hosted its inaugural celebration in Riyadh on Wednesday, where they announced three new special awards, delivered in partnership with Saudi Arabia’s Culinary Arts Commission.
The Michelin Service Award, in partnership with RAK Porcelain, went to Jeddah’s Yaza, helmed by chef and owner Hakim Bagabas, for what was described as an exceptional experience from start to finish.
Il Baretto’s manager Santiago Latorre was given the Exceptional Mocktail Award, as the Michelin Guide inspectors said the cocktail list offers a thoughtful mix of elevated classics and original signature mocktails.
The Young Chef Award went to Elia Kaady, at Maiz in Riyadh, who is considered one of the region’s rising talents.
The event honored the 11 restaurants that were awarded the Bib Gourmand distinction for delivering exceptional cuisine at great value.
The winners were Samia’s Dish and The Lucky Llama in Jeddah, Joontos and Tofareya in AlUla, Em Sharif Cafe, Fi Glbak, KAYZO, Mirzam, Najd Village, Sasani, and Tameesa in Riyadh.
Gwendal Poullennec, international director of the Michelin Guide, told Arab News: “??When we look at what Saudi chefs are offering, they are also inspired by all the food cultures, but they are still really faithful to their roots, to their heritage, to their product.
“They are also really willing to tell quite an authentic and unique story. And for us, at the Michelin Guide, it definitely has a value.”
In addition to the Bib Gourmand category, 40 restaurants recognized in the Selected category were awarded plaques following the final wave of announcements on Dec. 15, bringing the total Saudi Michelin Guide restaurants to 51.
The restaurant celebration was followed by a reception where a culinary showcase brought together six guest chefs.
Three international restaurants showcased their gastronomic creations, including Le Gabriel - La Reserve Paris, which has three Michelin stars, Muse by Tom Aikens and Nusara, which both have a star.
Bib Gourmand title holders The Lucky Llama, KAYZO, and Fi Glbak also brought their unique flavors to the table.
“It’s a unique and authentic food culture (in Saudi Arabia) that deserves to be put on the spotlight, as well as the destination should be on the world culinary map. So, that is definitely what we are willing to achieve with the Michelin Guide,” Poullennec said.
Source: arabnews.com
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Ziryab bridges Arab musical heritage with modern electronic sound
TAREQ AL-THAQAFI
February 05, 2026
MAKKAH: Saudi Arabia’s music landscape is experiencing significant evolution as independent initiatives emerge to reshape how tradition intersects with contemporary styles, reflecting the Kingdom’s wider cultural renaissance.
Among these ventures, the Ziryab platform has distinguished itself as a Saudi musical project delivering modern artistic expressions rooted in Arab identity.
It is fusing heritage music with electronic rhythms while maintaining distinctly local elements in its sonic palette, visual aesthetic, and production locations.
Platform co-founder Abdulaziz Al-Aqeel, working alongside partners Abdullah Al-Aujan and Hamad Al-Aidhani, described how the project originated from a deep engagement with Arab identity as the essential foundation for any contemporary musical endeavor.
“This philosophical approach permeates the platform’s character and output, positioning music as a universal language capable of carrying local culture to international audiences without diluting its unique qualities.”
The platform’s namesake carries deliberate historical weight, Al-Aqeel explained.
Ziryab — the legendary Arab musician renowned for innovation and expanding art beyond conventional boundaries — embodies the project’s mission.
It presents Arab music through a modern lens that honors tradition while engaging with today’s global music conversation.
Merging Arab musical traditions with contemporary electronic production presented genuine challenges, Al-Aqeel acknowledged.
“The project encountered contrasting perspectives — some critics viewing the fusion as threatening authenticity, while others embraced it as creative exploration,” he said.
Rather than retreat, the team responded by refining their artistic approach while maintaining cultural identity as an unwavering cornerstone of every composition.
Modern technology has proven instrumental in advancing Ziryab’s musical production, Al-Aqeel said.
Digital tools enable sophisticated experimentation, seamlessly weaving traditional sounds into electronic frameworks while streamlining workflows and elevating production quality.
Yet throughout this technological integration, Saudi identity remains central through deliberate use of local rhythmic patterns, Arab maqamat scales, and traditional instrumental textures.
The outlook for heritage-electronic fusion music in Saudi Arabia appears exceptionally promising, Al-Aqeel said, citing support from the Music Commission and heightened emphasis on national identity within Saudi Vision 2030’s framework.
These factors have cultivated an ecosystem favorable to musical innovation and homegrown talent cultivation.
Ziryab has broadened its mission beyond pure performance to actively nurture emerging artists through the “Ziryab Community” initiative, Al-Aqeel said.
“The program empowers Saudi DJs to explore Arab sonic traditions and reinterpret them through contemporary production, providing professional filming sessions and promotional support.”
All video content has been captured at the family residence with technical assistance from Al-Aqeel’s father, a television cinematographer.
Location and visual identity carry equal weight with audio elements in Ziryab’s content strategy, Al-Aqeel stressed. The platform treats cinematography as music’s natural extension — an integral component of the complete artistic experience.
“Every aspect — from site selection and directorial choices to meticulous visual composition — works to communicate Saudi identity to viewers.”
This deliberate synthesis of sound and image represents a calculated strategy toward producing comprehensive musical content meeting international standards while preserving cultural authenticity, Al-Aqeel said.
The platform aspires to construct an audiovisual archive capturing a defining moment in Saudi Arabia’s contemporary music evolution.
Source: arabnews.com
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Saudi culture minister attends Damascus International Book Fair 2026
February 05, 2026
LONDON: Prince Badr bin Abdullah bin Farhan, the Saudi minister of culture, visited Syria on Thursday to attend the Damascus International Book Fair 2026, where the Kingdom is the guest of honor.
He met with Syrian President Ahmed Al-Sharaa at the Conference Palace in Damascus and conveyed the Saudi leadership’s greetings and sincere wishes for Syria's prosperity, according to the Saudi Press Agency.
Prince Badr also met with his Syrian counterpart, Mohammed Yassin Saleh. During their meeting, they highlighted the deep cultural ties between the two countries and the significance of cultural cooperation.
Several officials from the Saudi Ministry of Culture and Royal Court counselors attended the meetings, including Abdulrahman bin Muammar, the general supervisor of the King Abdulaziz Public Library in Riyadh.
The cultural event runs from Feb. 6-16. Qatar and Saudi Arabia are guests of honor at the fair.
Source: arabnews.com
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