'Honesty Might Come At A Price': 'Mohammad' Deepak's Gym, With 150 Members Once, Now Down To 15
New Age Islam News Bureau
10 February2026
Deepak Kumar’s gym has lost most of its members after he stood up to men harassing a 70-year-old Muslim shopkeeper. (File Photo)
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· ‘Honesty might come at a price’: ‘Mohammad’ Deepak’s gym, with 150 members once, now down to 15
· Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan Rejects UNAMA Human Rights Report, Calls Findings “Contrary to Reality”
· Palestinians in the West Bank struggle to survive as Israel severely limits work permits
· New Zealand mosque shooter always planned to admit his crimes, his former lawyers tell appeals court
· Israel warns US it may strike Iran alone; Netanyahu moves up trip to US - is an attack imminent?
· Gunmen kill one, abduct Imam and six others in Plateau community, Nigeria
· Malaysia reaffirms commitment to counter-terrorism via IMCTC
· Saudi foreign minister and Slovakian defence minister sign cooperation agreement
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India
· Sambhal violence: Allahabad HC stays lower court order directing FIR against cops over alleged police firing
· CM Omar rules out liquor ban in J&K; says prohibition poses risk to public health, tourism
· Himanta Sarma’s ‘shooting’ at Muslims video: Left parties move Supreme Court
· Land Allotted For Islamic Institution Comes Under Scrutiny In Uttarakhand
· BJP fields Muslim in civic poll, locks horns with MIM
· 'Ready to go to jail': Himanta reacts to Owaisi's complaint against 'point blank shot' video
· Decoding Salman Khan’s presence at an RSS event
· 'Very balanced order': SC upholds Madras high court's deepam nod at Madurai hilltop
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South Asia
· Illegal Migration Attempt Foiled as 1,755 Arrested in Herat Last Week
· Editors’ Council concerned over army entry into media office
· US Court Orders Resumption of Afghan Special Immigrant Visa Processing
· WFP Provides School Meals to 880,000 Children Across Afghanistan in 2025
· KSrelief Launches Aid Distribution Project in Logar
· Kabul, Tehran Stress Continued Border Cooperation
· Supporting Returnees Remains Top IEA Priority, Minister Hanif Says
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Mideast
· Lebanon calls for pressure to be put on Israel to prevent violations of international law
· UK calls on Israel to reverse its move to expand control over West Bank
· Iran offers concessions on nuclear program
· What will the new Israeli measures change in the West Bank?
· UN chief warns Israel’s actions in West Bank are eroding prospects for a two-state solution
· Israeli attacks on Lebanon kill four, including security officer and child
· Syrian officials attend World Defense Show 2026 in Saudi Arabia
· Fire at Iraq oil refinery kills one, injures 6
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Europe
· King Charles 'ready to support' police as they assess Andrew claims over Epstein
· Norway police investigate diplomat over Epstein links
· Terror attacks prove somebody in Kiev not ready for peace – Fyodor Lukyanov
· Paul Cutts: Councillor suspended by Reform UK over 'islamophobic' social media posts visits to local mosque
· 'Unacceptable': cops slammed for Muslim prayer bust-up
· Sheep Trade: High hopes for price lift as Ramadan approaches
· Councillor says Facebook posts were 'thoughtless'
· Ukraine to launch arms exports – Zelensky
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North America
· CAIR to Release University Campus Islamophobia and Free Speech Report
· My House Judiciary Subcommittee Testimony Against the "Preserving a Sharia-Free America Act"
· CAIR-GA, GAMVP to Co-Host Muslim Advocacy Day at Capitol Feb. 12
· COMMUNITY ADVISORY: CAIR Releases ‘Eid Everywhere’ Campaign Toolkit for Eid Recognition in Schools
· CAIR Expresses Solidarity with Australians Protesting Visit by Genocidal Israeli President, Condemns Attack on Muslim Worshipers
· Temporary Homeless Shelter At Uptown’s American Islamic College To Close This Summer
· What exactly are Greenland’s riches that Trump wants so much?
· Trump threatens to block bridge to Canada
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Africa
· Experts Seek Formalised Will, Islamic Estate Transfer to Secure Family Wealth, Legacy
· Ethiopia-Eritrea tensions: Fears of armed confrontation grow
· Customs Reopens Kamba, Tsamiya Borders After Security Talks
· Electoral Act: “Our Demands Are Clear and Non-negotiable” – Peter Obi Speaks After Protest
· Details Of Meeting Between President Tinubu And US Military Officials Emerge
· NAHCON Chairman, Sheikh Pakistan, Resigns
· ‘I Was Never Tinubu’s Friend’ – El-Rufai Clarifies Reason for Fall Out with President
· DSS Takes Over Obaseki Abduction Probe, Lawyers Call It Terrorism
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Southeast Asia
· Selangor maintains flexible hours for civil servants during Ramadan
· Foreign minister: Malaysia, India committed to stronger ties across trade, tech and regional security
· Malaysia Airlines, Firefly gear up for Ramadan and Hari Raya with over 2,700 flights and fixed fares
· Indonesia to use D-8 chairmanship to bolster Muslim economies
· Malaysia negotiating terms of US tariff MoU
· ‘Second chance’ law to let reformed offenders deactivate old records and rebuild their lives, says Saifuddin Nasution
· Sultan Sharafuddin says no to pig farming in Selangor, urges pork imports to meet demand
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Arab World
· Prince William’s visit signals ‘importance of relationship with Saudi Arabia to UK,’ ex-envoy tells Arab News
· Air force partnerships are stabilizing force in region, US army lieutenant says
· Saudi Arabia, Estonia strengthen cyber defence cooperation
· Makkah festival boosts culture, local economy
· Saudi ministry urges green sector integration
· Saudi FM receives Syrian counterpart
· Non-resident Saudi ambassador to Palestine presents credentials
· Saudi crown prince gives Britain’s Prince William tour of At-Turaif District
Compiled by New Age Islam News Bureau
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‘Honesty might come at a price’: ‘Mohammad’ Deepak’s gym, with 150 members once, now down to 15
Aiswarya Raj
Feb 10, 2026
Deepak Kumar’s gym has lost most of its members after he stood up to men harassing a 70-year-old Muslim shopkeeper. (File Photo)
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Days after he was confronted by members of the Bajrang Dal for standing up for a 70-year-old Muslim man, Deepak Kumar has lost many of his gym members.
At Hulk Gym in Kotdwar, which is run from a rented building and once attracted 150 members, has seen the daily footfall drop to 15 people, he told The Indian Express.
On January 26, Deepak (38) stood up to a group of men who were harassing a 70-year-old Muslim shopkeeper, who suffers from Parkinson’s disease, to drop the word “Baba” from his shop’s name. During the confrontation, when asked his name, he told the crowd it was Mohammad Deepak. A video of the confrontation went viral, thrusting Deepak into the limelight but also bringing unwanted attention. On January 31, several members of the Bajrang Dal gathered to confront Deepak, but were restrained by the police.
A week later, the town has been cleaved into two: those who extended solidarity and those who feel antagonised by his act. “Half of the town supports me, but people do not applaud when you do good deeds. Honesty might come at a price,” he said.
His gym has taken the hit. “People are scared, and I understand it. However, the gym is run on an entire floor with a rent of Rs 40,000 a month. Our family has only one income. I recently built the house and am still paying off the monthly loan of Rs 16,000,” Kumar said.
The remaining members, he said, assured him that they are staying put. “There is a high attrition rate; if you lose a member, it is hard to regain them,” he said.
On Sunday, Member of Parliament John Brittas, leader of CPI(M)’s Parliamentary Party in the Rajya Sabha, visited the owner of Baba Dress, Vakeel Ahmed, and Kumar. In a tweet, the CPI(M) said that he visited the gym and took a membership as it now stood deserted “due to threats from communal elements”.
“Brittas also registered his strong protest at the Kotdwar police station, which has filed a case against Deepak while shielding the rioters. He congratulated ‘Muhammad’ Deepak for fearlessly taking a stand against the fascistic thugs and added that it is people like him who are the true hope and strength of the country,” it posted.
“I still don’t think that I have done something wrong. People from outside are supporting me, but those in town have yet to come around. Things are moving slowly, but it will get better,” he said.
Police have meanwhile provided protection to Kumar and deployed additional force in the town.
Source: indianexpress.com
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https://indianexpress.com/article/india/mohammad-deepaks-gym-which-once-had-150-members-now-down-to-15-10522215/
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Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan Rejects UNAMA Human Rights Report, Calls Findings “Contrary to Reality”
February 10, 2026
KABUL: The Ministry for the Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice has strongly rejected the latest human rights report released by the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA), calling its findings inaccurate and inconsistent with the realities on the ground.
According to the ministry’s spokesperson, Saif-ul-Islam Khyber, the other day, all activities carried out by the ministry strictly adhere to Islamic Sharia law, and no individual, particularly women, is subjected to arbitrary detention or mistreatment.
“I can confidently say that no such actions have taken place, and no one is permitted to arbitrarily detain or use violence against women or men,” Khyber said.
UNAMA’s quarterly report, covering October to December 2025, claimed that more than 500 cases of arbitrary arrest and mistreatment of Afghan women and men were recorded by personnel of the Ministry for the Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice.
Source: thekabultimes.com
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https://thekabultimes.com/iea-rejects-unama-human-rights-report-calls-findings-contrary-to-reality/
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Palestinians in the West Bank struggle to survive as Israel severely limits work permits
February 10, 2026
TULKAREM, West Bank: Hanadi Abu Zant hasn’t been able to pay rent on her apartment in the occupied West Bank for nearly a year after losing her permit to work inside Israel. When her landlord calls the police on her, she hides in a mosque.
“My biggest fear is being kicked out of my home. Where will we sleep, on the street?” she said, wiping tears from her cheeks.
She is among some 100,000 Palestinians whose work permits were revoked after Hamas’ Oct. 7, 2023, attack ignited the war in the Gaza Strip. Confined to the occupied territory, where jobs are scarce and wages far lower, they face dwindling and dangerous options as the economic crisis deepens.
Some have sold their belongings or gone into debt as they try to pay for food, electricity and school expenses for their children. Others have paid steep fees for black-market permits or tried to sneak into Israel, risking arrest or worse if they are mistaken for militants.
Israel, which has controlled the West Bank for nearly six decades, says it is under no obligation to allow Palestinians to enter for work and makes such decisions based on security considerations. Thousands of Palestinians are still allowed to work in scores of Jewish settlements across the West Bank, built on land they want for a future state.
Risk of collapse
The World Bank has warned that the West Bank economy is at risk of collapse because of Israel’s restrictions. By the end of last year, unemployment had surged to nearly 30 percent compared with around 12 percent before the war, according to the Palestinian Central Bureau of Statistics.
Before the war, tens of thousands of Palestinians worked inside Israel, mainly in construction and service jobs. Wages can be more than double those in the landlocked West Bank, where decades of Israeli checkpoints, land seizures and other restrictions have weighed heavily on the economy. Palestinians also blame the Palestinian Authority, which exercises limited self-rule in parts of the territory, for not doing enough to create jobs.
About 100,000 Palestinians had work permits that were revoked after the outbreak of the war. Israel has since reinstated fewer than 10,000, according to Gisha, an Israeli group advocating for Palestinian freedom of movement.
Wages earned in Israel injected some $4 billion into the Palestinian economy in 2022, according to the Institute for National Security Studies, an Israeli think tank. That’s equivalent to about two-thirds of the Palestinian Authority’s budget that year.
An Israeli official said Palestinians do not have an inherent right to enter Israel, and that permits are subject to security considerations. The official spoke on condition of anonymity in line with regulations.
Israel seized the West Bank, Gaza and east Jerusalem in the 1967 Mideast war, territories the Palestinians want for a future state. Some 3 million Palestinians live in the West Bank, along with over 500,000 Israeli settlers who can come and go freely.
The war in Gaza has brought a spike in Palestinian attacks on Israelis as well as settler violence. Military operations that Israel says are aimed at dismantling militant groups have caused heavy damage in the West Bank and displaced tens of thousands of Palestinians.
‘My refrigerator, it’s empty’
After her husband left her five years ago, Abu Zant secured a job at a food-packing plant in Israel that paid around $1,400 a month, enough to support her four children. When the war erupted, she thought the ban would only last a few months. She baked pastries for friends to scrape by.
Hasan Joma, who ran a business in Tulkarem before the war helping people find work in Israel, said Palestinian brokers are charging more than triple the price for a permit.
While there are no definite figures, tens of thousands of Palestinians are believed to be working illegally in Israel, according to Esteban Klor, professor of economics at Israel’s Hebrew University and a senior researcher at the INSS. Some risk their lives trying to cross Israel’s separation barrier, which consists of 9-meter high (30-foot) concrete walls, fences and closed military roads.
Shuhrat Barghouthi’s husband has spent five months in prison for trying to climb the barrier to enter Israel for work, she said. Before the war, the couple worked in Israel earning a combined $5,700 a month. Now they are both unemployed and around $14,000 in debt.
“Come and see my refrigerator, it’s empty, there’s nothing to feed my children,” she said. She can’t afford to heat her apartment, where she hasn’t paid rent in two years. She says her children are often sick and frequently go to bed hungry.
Sometimes she returns home to see her belongings strewn in the street by the landlord, who has been trying to evict them.
Forced to work in settlements
Of the roughly 48,000 Palestinians who worked in Israeli settlements before the war, more than 65 percent have kept their permits, according to Gisha. The Palestinians and most of the international community view the settlements, which have rapidly expanded in recent years, as illegal.
Israeli officials did not respond to questions about why more Palestinians are permitted to work in the settlements.
Palestinians employed in the settlements, speaking on condition of anonymity for fear of retribution, say their employers have beefed up security since the start of the war and are far more willing to fire anyone stepping out of line, knowing there are plenty more desperate for work.
Two Palestinians working in the Mishor Adumim settlement said security guards look through workers’ phones and revoke their permits arbitrarily.
Israelis have turned to foreign workers to fill jobs held by Palestinians, but some say it’s a poor substitute because they cost more and do not know the language. Palestinians speak Arabic, but those who work in Israel are often fluent in Hebrew.
Raphael Dadush, an Israeli developer, said the permit crackdown has resulted in costly delays.
Before the war, Palestinians made up more than half his workforce. He’s tried to replace them with Chinese workers but says it’s not exactly the same. He understands the government’s decision, but says it’s time to find a way for Palestinians to return that ensures Israel’s security.
Assaf Adiv, the executive director of an Israeli group advocating for Palestinian labor rights, says there has to be some economic integration or there will be “chaos.”
“The alternative to work in Israel is starvation and desperation,” he said.
Source: arabnews.com
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://www.arabnews.com/node/2632434/middle-east
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New Zealand mosque shooter always planned to admit his crimes, his former lawyers tell appeals court
10 February, 2026
Former lawyers say the Christchurch mosque attacker wanted to be labelled a terrorist as an appeals court reviews his guilty pleas. [Getty]
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The self-professed white supremacist who murdered 51 Muslims in New Zealand’s deadliest mass shooting was pleased to be charged with terrorism and wanted to be described as a terrorist, his former lawyer told a court deciding if the man was in a fit state to admit to his crimes.
Brenton Tarrant, 35, was sentenced to life in prison without a chance of parole after pleading guilty to terrorism, murder and attempted murder for his hate-fueled massacre of worshipers including children at two Christchurch mosques during Friday prayers in 2019.
The Australian man is now seeking to recant the admissions he made in 2020, saying solitary confinement and other prison conditions made him irrational and mentally unwell.
New Zealand’s Court of Appeal in Wellington is considering Tarrant’s bid in a five-day hearing. The three-judge panel discards his guilty pleas, the case would return to court for trial.
Shooter's change of mind is examined
Tarrant first pleaded not guilty to the charges he faced, then reversed his position before his trial was due to begin. He told the appeals court Monday that he felt forced into his admissions by “nervous exhaustion” brought on by constant solitary confinement, surveillance by prison staff, lack of access to reading materials and almost no contact with the outside world.
Lawyers who represented him during the period when he entered both sets of pleas told the court Tuesday that they had laid a complaint about his prison conditions early in his confinement. Prison officials were dismissive of his grievances, the lawyers said.
They said, however, that restrictions on Tarrant eased later and they didn't think his environment had harmed his ability to make decisions. Tarrant said Monday that he had masked symptoms of serious mental illness in an effort not to appear weak or to reflect poorly on others who held his racist views.
Crown lawyers suggested to Tarrant on Monday that he had many opportunities to raise concerns about his mental health and or request a postponement of his trial. No witness has so far agreed with Tarrant that his conditions were so onerous and his mental state so poor that he wasn't fit to plead guilty.
Shooter was told a political trial wasn’t possible
One issue at the heart of the case is whether Tarrant always intended to admit the charges or planned to contest them. Tarrant said Monday that he had meant to defend himself at a trial, while his lawyers said Tuesday that they were sure he intended to plead guilty due to the overwhelming evidence against him, which included his Facebook livestream of the massacre and a racist manifesto he posted online before the attack.
Shane Tait, who previously acted for Tarrant, said his client had wanted to argue during a trial that he had been defending New Zealand — a country he migrated to with a view to committing the attack — from immigrants. Tait assured Tarrant that such a defense wasn't available under New Zealand law, he told the court.
“Brenton, what am I going to tell the jury if we go to trial?" Tait said he had asked Tarrant. His client had responded, “Don’t worry, it won’t get that far," Tait said.
Both Tait and Tarrant's other then-lawyer Jonathan Hudson said it was important to their client that he be convicted on the terrorism charge and he refused to allow his lawyers to attempt to negotiate it away in exchange for guilty pleas to the murder and attempted murder charges.
“He wanted to be described as a terrorist,” Hudson said.
The appeal outcome is due later
Bids to appeal convictions or sentences in New Zealand must be made within 20 working days. Tarrant was two years late in seeking an appeal, filing documents in 2022.
He told the court Monday that his bid had been late because he hadn’t had access to the information required to make it.
The judges are expected to release their decision at a later date. If they reject Tarrant’s attempt to have his guilty pleas discarded, a later hearing will focus on his bid to appeal his sentence.
The hearing was the first time that Tarrant, who appeared by video conference from prison, had been seen or heard from in court for years. He appeared pale and thin, with a shaved head and black-framed glasses.
Some of those bereaved or injured by his violence watched a live feed of proceedings from a courtroom in Christchurch, telling reporters afterward of their exasperation and anger that he was allowed to keep revisiting his case in court.
“There’s definitely no remorse at all," said Rashid Omar, whose son Tariq Omar was murdered, adding that the proceedings appeared to be a game to Tarrant.
“We are very, very strong,” Omar said. "We’re not going to be bullied by him.”
Source: newarab.com
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https://www.newarab.com/news/former-lawyers-say-nz-mosque-shooter-planned-confess
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Israel warns US it may strike Iran alone; Netanyahu moves up trip to US - is an attack imminent?
Feb 9, 2026
As Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu prepares to visit Washington, concerns are mounting over the trajectory of US-Iran talks and the possibility of military escalation, with Israeli defence officials warning that Tehran’s expanding ballistic missile programme poses an existential threat to Israel.
According to Israeli security sources quoted by The Jerusalem Post, senior Israeli officials have conveyed to their US counterparts in recent weeks that Israel is prepared to act unilaterally if Iran crosses what it considers a red line on ballistic missile capabilities. The discussions reportedly included operational concepts aimed at degrading Iran’s missile production and launch infrastructure.
“We told the Americans we will strike alone if Iran crosses the red line we set on ballistic missiles,” one source said, adding that while Israel does not believe that threshold has yet been crossed, developments inside Iran are being closely monitored.
Israeli officials have stressed that Jerusalem will not allow Iran to restore strategic weapon systems on a scale that threatens Israel’s existence, and that it reserves full freedom of action.
Israeli unease over limited US strike options
Several Israeli defence officials have expressed concern that US President Donald Trump could opt for a limited military response, similar to recent US operations against the Houthis in Yemen, which they fear would leave Iran’s core missile capabilities intact.
“The worry is he might choose a few targets, declare success, and leave Israel to deal with the fallout, just like with the Houthis,” a military official was quoted as saying.
Against this backdrop, brigadier general Omer Tishler, the incoming Israeli air force commander, is expected to accompany Netanyahu to Washington. Tishler will represent Israel defense forces (IDF) chief Lt Gen Eyal Zamir, as Israel currently does not have a defence attaché posted in Washington, according to The Jerusalem Post.
Iran talks raise stakes for Netanyahu visit
Netanyahu’s visit comes amid preliminary US-Iran talks held in Oman last week, which, according to statements issued by both sides, showed little indication of Tehran softening its positions.
Analysts cited by Ynet Global said the US appeared willing to consider compromises aimed at reviving a nuclear agreement that would lift sanctions on Iran.
Israeli officials fear such an agreement could strengthen the Iranian regime economically while leaving its missile programme untouched, potentially restricting Israel’s ability to act independently against emerging threats.
According to Ynet Global, Netanyahu advanced his Washington visit by two weeks, now expected to meet Trump on Wednesday, driven by concerns over the pace of negotiations and Iran’s rapid efforts to rebuild missile and drone capabilities following damage sustained during the recent 12-day conflict.
Iran views ballistic missiles as its primary deterrent in the absence of nuclear weapons and is reportedly producing hundreds of missiles each month using remaining infrastructure spread across the country, the report said.
Iran vs Israel
Missiles off the table in talks
Iran has refused to discuss ballistic missiles, regional proxy groups or internal repression as part of negotiations, limiting talks to partial constraints on its nuclear programme, according to statements by Iranian foreign minister Abbas Araghchi. Tehran has rejected demands for dismantling its nuclear project or permanently giving up breakout capabilities.
Israeli officials are particularly concerned that Trump has publicly focused on Iran’s nuclear programme while avoiding references to missiles or proxy forces, raising fears in Tel Aviv that Washington could settle for a deal Israel sees as insufficient.
From Israel’s perspective, sanctions relief without missile restrictions would allow Iran to stabilise its economy and channel resources toward military projects and allied groups such as Hezbollah and the Houthis.
US caution amid wider regional risks
US officials remain wary of authorising military action unless it can be short and decisive, without drawing Washington into a prolonged regional conflict.
Concerns include potential disruption of shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, a spike in oil prices, and wider instability involving US allies in the Gulf.
Netanyahu is expected to press Trump to narrow the scope of concessions, accelerate negotiations, and insist on permanent dismantling of Iran’s nuclear programme, including zero enrichment and intrusive inspections.
He is also likely to push for limits on the range and quantity of Iran’s ballistic missiles and a phased lifting of sanctions.
If Iran rejects these demands, Israeli officials believe Netanyahu could seek US backing for a broader military operation than previously undertaken.
Source: indiatimes.com
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/us/israel-warns-us-it-may-strike-iran-alone-netanyahu-moves-up-trip-to-us-is-an-attack-imminent/articleshowprint/128119841.cms
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Gunmen kill one, abduct Imam and six others in Plateau community, Nigeria
February 9, 2026
Gunmen on Sunday evening attacked Dogon Ruwa community in Bashar District of Wase Local Government Area, Plateau State, killing one resident and abducting an Imam and six other persons.
The victims were reportedly ambushed while processing charcoal for commercial purposes on the outskirts of the community.
Our correspondent reports that several rural communities in Wase Local Government Area have become hotspots for recurring banditry and kidnappings in recent times.
Confirming the incident, a youth leader in Wase, Shapi’i Sambo, described the attack as sudden and terrifying.
“The victims were processing charcoal when gunmen suddenly stormed the area,” Sambo said. “An Imam of Jama’atu Izalatil Bid’a Wa’ikamatis Sunnah (JIBWIS), Malam Abdulrashid Baduku, was among those abducted.”
He added that residents attempted to trail the attackers but were unable to apprehend them due to the onset of darkness.
The attack has triggered widespread panic in the community. Sambo noted that security operatives have been deployed to the area, with additional reinforcements sent to restore calm and enhance security.
As of the time of filing this report, the Plateau State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Alabo Alfred, had not responded to inquiries.
Dogon Ruwa community has witnessed persistent violence in recent months. On July 29, 2025, bandits reportedly ambushed soldiers and vigilantes in the area, killing two soldiers and two vigilantes. Last week, gunmen also attacked Sabon Gari and Zak communities, leaving five residents and one soldier dead.
Source: vanguardngr.com
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https://www.vanguardngr.com/2026/02/gunmen-kill-one-abduct-imam-and-six-others-in-plateau-community/#google_vignette
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Malaysia reaffirms commitment to counter-terrorism via IMCTC
10 Feb 2026
Defence Minister Khaled Nordin says Malaysia’s role in the Islamic Military Counter Terrorism Coalition underscores its commitment to global security cooperation.
KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia’s participation in the Islamic Military Counter Terrorism Coalition (IMCTC) demonstrates its commitment to active international cooperation against security threats.
Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin stated this includes addressing terrorism, extremism, and ideologies from non-state actors that undermine stability.
He expressed these views in a social media post during his working visit to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
Khaled also shared details of his meeting with two Malaysian Armed Forces officers serving at the IMCTC headquarters.
The officers are Lieutenant Colonel Mohd Shah Othman and Analysis Officer Major Zainudin Abu Hasan.
“I would like to express my appreciation for the dedication and professionalism of these two MAF officers who have upheld Malaysia’s good name while contributing to collective efforts for regional and global security and stability,” he said.
His working visit to Saudi Arabia, which began last Saturday, included several key engagements.
He held bilateral talks with Saudi Defence Minister Prince Khalid bin Salman Al Saud and attended the World Defence Show 2026.
The visit is also scheduled to culminate in the signing of a defence cooperation agreement between Malaysia and Saudi Arabia.
Source: thesun.my
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https://thesun.my/news/malaysia-news/malaysia-reaffirms-commitment-to-counter-terrorism-via-imctc/
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Saudi foreign minister and Slovakian defence minister sign cooperation agreement
February 09, 2026
LONDON: Prince Faisal bin Farhan, Saudi Minister of Foreign Affairs, discussed on Monday ways to strengthen cooperative relations with the Slovakian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense Robert Kalinak.
The meeting at the ministry’s headquarters in Riyadh focused on common interests and discussed the latest regional and international developments, according to the Saudi Press Agency.
The two sides signed a general cooperation agreement to enhance partnership and mutual understanding across various fields.
Saudi Deputy Minister for Political Affairs Ambassador Saud Al-Sati and Director General of the European Department, ambassador Abdulrahman Al-Ahmad, attended the meeting.
On Monday, Prince Faisal met with his Panamanian counterpart, Javier Martinez-Acha, and the Minister of Trade and Industry, Julio Molto.
They discussed ways to enhance bilateral relations and addressed recent international developments of mutual interest, according to SPA.
Source: arabnews.com
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https://www.arabnews.com/node/2632378/saudi-arabia
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India
Sambhal violence: Allahabad HC stays lower court order directing FIR against cops over alleged police firing
10 Feb 2026
The Allahabad High Court on Tuesday stayed a lower court order directing the police to register an FIR against 12 police personnel, including former Sambhal Circle Officer Anuj Chaudhary and former Sambhal Kotwali in-charge Anuj Tomar, over their alleged role in the 2024 police firing.
The order was passed by Justice Samit Gopal while hearing a petition filed by Chaudhary against Chief Judicial Magistrate Vibhanshu Sudhir's January 9 order, directing the registration of a criminal case against him.
After the stay, the court posted the matter for hearing on February 24.
The case stems from a petition filed by Yameen, whose son was injured in the alleged police firing during the violence.
Yameen, a resident of the Khaggu Sarai Anjuman area in Sambhal alleged that his 24-year-old son Alam, was shot at by the police during the violence near the Shahi Jama Masjid area on November 24, 2024. According to the petition, Alam was out selling rusk and biscuits near the mosque, when he was shot at by the police.
Plaintiff’s lawyer Chaudhary Akhtar Hussain said his client’s son received treatment while hiding from the police and demanded registration of an FIR against former CO Anuj Chaudhary, former Inspector Anuj Tomar, and other unidentified police personnel.
Five Muslims were killed and several others were injured as police allegedly opened fire at protesters during a court-ordered survey of the Shahi Jama Masjid on the morning of November 24, 2024.
In its 11-page order, Sudheer observed that the police cannot invoke the "official duty" shield for criminal acts.
Referring to the Supreme Court's rulings, the CJM noted that firing upon a person cannot be considered a discharge of official duties.
Finding that a prima facie cognizable offence was disclosed, the CJM court concluded that the truth could only be unearthed through a proper investigation.
Notably, within days of passing the order, Chief Judicial Magistrate Vibhanshu Sudhir was transferred, triggering widespread criticism.
Source: newindianexpress.com
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/2026/Feb/10/sambhal-violence-allahabad-hc-stays-lower-court-order-directing-fir-against-cops-over-alleged-police-firing
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CM Omar rules out liquor ban in J&K; says prohibition poses risk to public health, tourism
Fayaz Wani
10 Feb 2026
SRINAGAR: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said on Tuesday that there is no proposal to prohibit alcohol in Jammu and Kashmir, as prohibition will lead to creation of black markets as well as affect tourism and economy negatively.
The statement comes amid calls for a complete liquor ban by J&K Grand Mufti Nasir-ul-Islam and PDP chief and former Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti.
In response to a question by BJP MLA Balwant Singh Mankotia, J&K CM and Finance Minister Omar Abdullah informed the Assembly on Tuesday that the government has no plans to prohibit alcohol sales in the UT.
The CM said the prohibition might encourage large-scale smuggling of liquor from neighbouring states/UTs.
“There will be a rise in illicit liquor as illegal distillation would increase, posing serious risks to public health,” the CM said.
He informed the house that destruction of 13.65 lakh kg lahan and 16.3 thousand liters of illicit liquor (2024-25 and 2025-26) highlights the dangers of spurious liquor.
“The prohibition will strengthen liquor mafias. Underground networks, money laundering, and hawala activities may grow, impacting security and economy,” the CM said.
He said thousands engaged in manufacturing, wholesale, retail, hospitality, and transport sectors--especially youth--would lose livelihoods.
“Thousands of vehicles dependent on liquor trade would be adversely affected,” the CM said.
He said the prohibition, if any, would lead to industrial loss: “Bottle manufacturing industry would suffer due to reduced demand”.
“Tourists expect access to alcohol; prohibition may reduce tourist inflow as visitors prefer neighboring states,” he said. “Hotels, restaurants, and resorts rely on liquor sales to enhance customer experience and revenue.”
“Many tourists prefer hotels with bars and prohibition will affect occupancy and earnings,” he said.
According to CM, the alcohol regulation involves social, economic, ethical, and public health trade-offs. “Taxation on alcohol acts as a dual tool—generating revenue while discouraging excessive consumption,” added the CM.
“Liquor and drugs are destroying society and the social fabric. While the government is acting against drug abuse, it must show the same seriousness towards liquor and ban its sale and purchase in J&K,” he said.
According to the data, Kashmir generated an excise revenue of Rs 18,448.50 lakh in the last two years despite being a predominantly Muslim region, where liquor consumption remains socially and religiously sensitive.
Reacting to the surge in liquor use, J&K Grand Mufti Mufti Nasir-ul-Islam urged the government to impose a complete ban on liquor.
Source: newindianexpress.com
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https://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/2026/Feb/10/cm-omar-rules-out-liquor-ban-in-jk-says-prohibition-poses-risk-to-public-health-tourism
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Himanta Sarma’s ‘shooting’ at Muslims video: Left parties move Supreme Court
10-feb-2026
The Communist Party of India (Marxist) and Communist Party of India leader Annie Raja have moved the Supreme Court seeking action against Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma for remarks targeting the Muslim community, Live Law reported on Tuesday.
Advocate Nizam Pasha mentioned the matter before Chief Justice Surya Kant seeking urgent listing.
“We seek urgent intervention of this court with respect to disturbing speeches made by the sitting CM of Assam, including a recent video posted where he is shown as shooting at members of a particular community,” Live Law quoted Pasha as submitting before the court. “Complaints are filed, but no FIRs are registered.”
The petitions were filed against a video shared by the Assam unit of the Bharatiya Janata Party, which depicted Sarma symbolically firing at images of two Muslim men at point-blank range. The video, which was posted on Saturday, has since been deleted following criticism.
The clip combined what appeared to be original footage of the BJP leader handling rifles with artificial intelligence-generated images portraying Muslims as targets. On-screen text included slogans such as “Foreigner free Assam”, “No mercy”, “Why did you not go to Pakistan?” and “There is no forgiveness to Bangladeshis”.
Responding to the plea, Kant observed that ahead of elections, political battles find their way into the Supreme Court, Live Law reported.
Elections in the state are expected to be held in March or April.
Kant added that the court would examine the matter and provide a date for hearing.
The CPI(Marxist) and Raja have filed separate writ petitions seeking the registration of first information reports against the chief minister for offences related to hate speech and communal polarisation.
They have also sought the setting up of a Special Investigation Team by the Supreme Court, arguing that state and central agencies cannot be expected to conduct an independent and impartial inquiry, Live Law reported.
They have placed on record statements made by the chief minister between 2021 and February 2026 that allegedly call for the social, economic and civic exclusion of Bengali-origin Muslims, including calls to restrict access to livelihoods, transport, land and voting rights.
The petitions claim that these remarks have had real-world consequences, with reports of discrimination and harassment allegedly being justified by perpetrators as acting on the chief minister’s directions, Live Law reported.
It also added that the remarks violate the oath taken by the chief minister to uphold the Constitution, sovereignty, integrity, fraternity and equality.
The speeches are alleged to attract offences under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and electoral offences under the 1951 Representation of the People Act, Live Law reported.
On Monday, another writ petition was filed by 12 persons highlighting Sarma’s remarks, including references to “Miya” Muslims and “flood jihad”, and seeking directions to restrain holders of constitutional posts from making divisive statements, Live Law reported.
In Assam, “Miya” is a derogatory word used to refer to undocumented immigrants and is exclusively directed at Muslims of Bengali origin. They are often accused of being undocumented migrants from Bangladesh.
Once a pejorative in Assam, from the common use of the honorific “Miya” among South Asian Muslims, the term has now been reappropriated by the community as a self-descriptor to refer to Muslims who migrated to Assam from Bengal during the colonial era.
The Islamic clerics’ group Jamiat Ulema-i-Hind has also raised concerns about the chief minister’s speeches and urged the Supreme Court to issue similar directions, Live Law reported.
Source: scroll.in
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https://scroll.in/latest/1090625/himanta-sarmas-shooting-at-muslims-video-left-parties-move-supreme-court
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Land Allotted For Islamic Institution Comes Under Scrutiny In Uttarakhand
Feb 10, 2026
The transfer of nearly 20 acres of land located close to the Indian Military Academy (IMA) here, allegedly for constructing an Islamic educational institution, has come under scrutiny.
The land was purportedly allotted around two decades ago by the then Congress government.
According to a preliminary inquiry conducted by Vikasnagar Sub-Divisional Magistrate Vinod Kumar, the plot of land, situated in the Dhaulas area near the IMA, is now being sold in smaller plots for residential purposes, posing a threat to the security of the military training institution.
Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami told reporters that his government would take strict action in the matter.
"It is clear from this case that these people (Congress), who talked about building a Muslim university, would have proceeded in that direction if they had come to power. We will take strict action (in the land case)," Dhami said.
Reacting to the allegation, Congress leader and former Chief Minister Harish Rawat said the matter dates back to 2004, when Narayan Dutt Tiwari was the chief minister.
"This is an old case from 2004, when Tiwari ji was the head of the government. After that, the BJP came to power several times, and they could have cancelled this allotment," Rawat said.
BJP MLA and state party spokesperson Vinod Chamoli said the reports related to the case have once again exposed what he termed as the "dangerous conspiracies" of the Congress governments.
He questioned whether the land allotted during the Tiwari government was meant for setting up an Islamic university under the supervision of Rawat.
"It was due to the BJP's opposition and the public's rejection of the Congress in 2022 that this intention could not be fulfilled, and now the land is being encroached upon by land mafia," Chamoli said.
Source: ndtv.com
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https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/land-allotted-for-islamic-institution-comes-under-scrutiny-in-uttarakhand-10978584
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BJP fields Muslim in civic poll, locks horns with MIM
Feb 10, 2026
Hyderabad: BJP has fielded a Muslim candidate in Karimnagar municipal corporation for the Feb 11 municipal elections—a first for the saffron party in the town in 50 years, and a rare experiment in a civic division dominated by the AIMIM.
The nomination of Inayath Ali, a 50-year-old flower shop owner, underscores the BJP's attempt to breach the AIMIM vote bank and widen its social outreach under the leadership of Karimnagar MP and Union minister of state for home Bandi Sanjay.
Ali is contesting from ward 32, a Muslim majority pocket long considered an AIMIM bastion, outside Hyderabad. Of the 5,030 voters in the ward, around 98% are Muslims, with only a small Hindu presence. AIMIM has held sway here for nearly four decades, and notably, the BJP had never contested this seat earlier. This time, however, the party has chosen to enter the fray with a Muslim face.
Ali, who has worked closely with Sanjay for several years, said he was personally encouraged by the Union minister to contest. Sanjay, a former Telangana BJP chief, is widely known for his strong Hindutva stance, making the choice of candidate politically striking.
Balancing electioneering with running his flower business, Ali ran a modest campaign with the support of 20 to 30 young volunteers from the area. He admits the decision to contest on a BJP ticket was met with scepticism within his own community. Despite the pressure, Ali said his family stood firmly behind his decision to contest.
"Running as a BJP candidate in our area is no easy feat. Many friends questioned my decision to run under the BJP banner, but I went ahead because Sanjay assured me that my ward would benefit from development funded by central resources. A lot of people in our ward do not realise that the central govt provides various schemes that also apply to Muslims. The conditions in our area are dire, with terrible roads, and I am reminding residents that they, too, can benefit from these schemes," he said.
Sanjay, on his part, termed the nomination as part of the party's broader political approach. "We are against the AIMIM, not against any religion or community. BJP wants everyone to progress in the country," he said.
Ali's campaign has drawn a strong response from AIMIM, with senior leaders and campaigners from outside Telangana stepping in. Sahar Sheikh, a 22-year-old AIMIM corporator from Mumbai who recently made headlines for her ‘paint Mumbai green' remarks, also campaigned in the ward.
Sufi Samvad initiative
Apart from being a local trader, Ali is also the Telangana president of Sufi Samvad (Sufi dialogue), a BJP Minority Morcha initiative aimed at engaging with the Muslim community across the country.
His association with Sanjay dates back to the latter's tenure as chairman of the Karimnagar Co-Operative Urban Bank Ltd. "He always responded to my requests for our people, whether it was school admissions or hospital services. When I expressed the dire situation in our ward, he told me that people like me should take the initiative," Ali recalled.
Ali had joined the BJP after Sanjay became Karimnagar MP in 2019.
Source: indiatimes.com
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https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/hyderabad/bjp-fields-muslim-in-civic-poll-locks-horns-with-mim/articleshowprint/128127866.cms
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'Ready to go to jail': Himanta reacts to Owaisi's complaint against 'point blank shot' video
Feb 9, 2026
NEW DELHI: Assam chief minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Monday said he was ready to be arrested after AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi filed a police complaint against him over a now-deleted Assam BJP's controversial video.
The BJP leader also said he didn't know anything about the video, adding that he would continue to oppose Bangladeshi infiltrators.
"I am ready to go to jail, what can I do? I do not know anything about any video. If he has filed a case against me, arrest me; what objection do I have? I have no objection. But I stand by my words, I am against Bangladeshi infiltrators and I will continue to be against them," the Assam chief minister told news agency ANI.
His remarks came after All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen chief and Hyderabad MP Asaduddin Owaisi lodged an official complaint with Hyderabad City Police seeking criminal action against Sarma over a "now-deleted video" allegedly depicting violence against Muslims, describing it as "genocidal hate speech."
In a post on X, Owaisi said he had approached the Hyderabad City Police Commissioner on Monday, alleging that the video showed Sarma symbolically shooting at persons "very obviously depicted as Muslims." "I have lodged an official complaint with @CPHydCity demanding criminal action against Himanta Sarma for his (now deleted) violent video showing him shooting Muslims. Unfortunately, genocidal hate speech has become a norm."
He also attached a copy of the complaint, stating that the imagery and phrases used in the video, including "Point blank shot" and "No Mercy," were intended to outrage religious feelings, promote communal hatred, and incite violence.
According to the complaint, the video was uploaded on February 7 from the official X account of the Assam BJP and was taken down a day later, though it continues to circulate on social media. Owaisi argued that law enforcement agencies are constitutionally bound to act suo motu in cases of hate speech, even without a formal complaint.
Owaisi also raised the issue during a public rally in Zaheerabad on Sunday while campaigning for the Telangana municipal elections scheduled for February 11. Shifting focus from local civic issues to what he described as a national crisis of dignity, Owaisi accused the BJP of spreading communal hatred and urged voters to strengthen AIMIM as an antidote to communalism.
Addressing supporters, Owaisi highlighted AIMIM's relief work during incidents such as the Jainoor violence and the Medak town clashes, alleging inaction by both the Congress and BRS governments. He said municipal elections were crucial for everyday governance and appealed to voters to back AIMIM candidates for inclusive development and effective grassroots leadership.
Source: indiatimes.com
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https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/ready-to-go-to-jail-himanta-reacts-to-owaisis-complaint-against-point-blank-shot-video/articleshowprint/128120894.cms
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Decoding Salman Khan’s presence at an RSS event
February 9, 2026
Bollywood superstar Salman Khan’s presence at an RSS centenary event in Mumbai on Saturday not only sparked widespread interest but also triggered a fierce political debate. While peers such as Akshay Kumar were also present, Khan, as a Muslim attending an event organised by a right-wing Hindu organisation, drew the maximum attention. Khan sat attentively as RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat lauded him as a youth icon, praising the way students emulate his style and highlighting the Bollywood superstar’s influence.
The controversy erupted when Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut questioned whether Khan’s participation was driven by “coercion or conviction”. Accusing the RSS of anti-Muslim politics, Raut claimed the organisation was using Khan—a prominent Muslim figure—for optics, either to mask ideological biases or boost attendance. He also questioned whether the move represented genuine outreach or a desperate attempt to remain relevant amid shifting political winds.
Amid intense social media speculation and trolling, critics viewed it as an attempt to project Muslim inclusion, boost crowds, or counter the RSS’s Hindu nationalist image. Supporters, meanwhile, described it as a “sincere attempt at dialogue”. Khan remained silent, but the episode underscored India’s deepening cultural and political divides, amplifying debates around nationalism, identity, and secularism.
According to those familiar with the Sangh’s functioning, the aim of the event was to “reach out and involve those unfamiliar with RSS activities”. “Those familiar with the Sangh already understand its functioning and goals. The aim is to familiarise those who are not and broaden outreach, especially during the milestone year. Inviting film stars was part of that effort,” they said.
“Khan’s attendance was part of a high-profile public lecture series marking the organisation’s 100-year journey, featuring prominent and diverse figures such as film stars, scientists, and diplomats to encourage broader national dialogue on important issues. The idea was to present an authentic picture of the Sangh to the public while dispelling long-standing misconceptions.”
Led by Bhagwat, the series focuses on explaining the Sangh’s journey and its vision for nation-building, reaching out to diverse social segments and the international community to foster a sense of “belongingness”, and promoting social harmony and women’s leadership as pillars of India’s progress.
The RSS has also been pursuing structured engagement with Muslim communities for years, focusing on dialogue rather than proselytisation to reduce communal tensions through affiliates such as the Muslim Rashtriya Manch.
Source: thestatesman.com
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https://www.thestatesman.com/india/decoding-salman-khans-presence-at-an-rss-event-1503554226.html
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'Very balanced order': SC upholds Madras high court's deepam nod at Madurai hilltop
Feb 9, 2026
NEW DELHI: In a long-running dispute over religious practices on the Thiruparankundram hill in Madurai, the Supreme Court on Monday refused to interfere with a Madras high court judgment that permitted lighting of the Karthigai Deepam at a hilltop stone pillar and restricted Muslim prayers at a nearby site except during Ramzan and Bakri-Id.
The high court had held that Muslims have no right to conduct any prayers at the Nellithoppu site except during Ramzan and Bakri-Id. The 33 cents of land is owned by the Sikkandar Badhusha Avuliya Dargah. The high court had also ruled that animal sacrifice cannot be permitted in the area.
Challenging the verdict, M. Imam Hussain, a worshipper at the Dargah, approached the apex court.
A bench comprising Justice Aravind Kumar and Justice PB Varale declined to interfere, describing the high court order as balanced. Appearing for the petitioner, Advocate Prashant Bhushan submitted that there has never been a law and order problem in the area.
Justice Kumar responded that had there been no law and order issue, there would not have been a meeting of the Peace Committee.
"It seems to be a very very balanced order," Justice Kumar said and Justice Varale agreed with it, according to the Live Law.
"We do not propose to interfere with the order. Without expressing any opinion on rights of the parties, the impugned order stands upheld," the bench observed.
The ruling stems from proceedings before the Madurai Bench of the Madras high court, which had upheld a single judge’s order permitting the Thiruparankundram Murugan Temple management to light the Karthigai Deepam at the Deepathoon, a stone pillar located on one of the peaks of the Thiruparankundram hill.
Madras HC upholds its earlier judgment on deepam lighting
A division bench confirmed the earlier ruling of Justice GR Swaminathan, directing that the ceremonial lamp be lit at the Deepathoon in addition to the other customary locations during the festival.
The high court observed that the district administration ought to have treated the issue as an opportunity to bridge the gap between the communities through mediation. It further held that since the hill is a protected site, any activity carried out there must strictly comply with the provisions of the relevant law.
The court clarified that the lamp may be lit and the number of persons permitted can be fixed, subject to consultation with the Archaeological Survey of India. With this, the court cleared the way for continuation of the practice, dismissing objections raised against lighting the lamp at the hilltop stone pillar.
What’s the deepam row?
Thiruparankundram hill, rising at the edge of Madurai, carries a layered religious history spanning more than two millennia. Revered as one of the six abodes of Lord Murugan, it houses the ancient Subramaniya Swamy Temple and has references in Sangam-era literature.
Archaeological traces reveal Jain presence dating back over 2,300 years. By the 14th century, the hill also became associated with Sikandar Shah, whose memorial evolved into the Sikkandar Badusha Dargah. For generations, temple festivals and dargah observances unfolded in proximity, with local residents describing shared rituals and overlapping traditions rather than rigid divisions.
The current dispute centres on where the Karthigai Deepam should be lit during the annual festival. Historically, the lamp was lit at the Uchipillaiyar mandapam. Petitions beginning in the 1990s sought to shift the lighting to the hilltop Deepathoon pillar. Courts had earlier declined to alter established practice.
However, a fresh petition in 2024 argued that the 1920s Privy Council decree recognising temple ownership of the hill permitted lighting at the pillar.
Justice G R Swaminathan allowed the hilltop lighting, triggering administrative resistance on law and order grounds and eventually escalating into a political flashpoint between the ruling DMK and the BJP, before reaching the Supreme Court.
Source: indiatimes.com
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https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/very-balanced-order-sc-upholds-madras-high-courts-deepam-nod-at-madurai-hill/articleshowprint/128109204.cms
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South Asia
Illegal Migration Attempt Foiled as 1,755 Arrested in Herat Last Week
February 10, 2026
HERAT: A total of 1,755 individuals attempting to leave Afghanistan illegally have been arrested by security forces of the 207 Al-Farooq Army Corps of the Ministry of National Defense over the past week in Herat province.
The arrests were made over the past week in the districts of Ghoriyan and Kohsan, two areas frequently used by migrants attempting to cross borders without legal documentation, the army corps said in a statement on Monday.
The individuals were detained during security operations aimed at curbing irregular migration and preventing unsafe travel routes, the statement added.
The Ministry of Refugees and Repatriation had earlier emphasized that the Islamic Emirate is working to address the underlying causes of irregular migration by improving economic opportunities and stability within the country.
Source: thekabultimes.com
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https://thekabultimes.com/illegal-migration-attempt-foiled-as-1755-arrested-in-herat-last-week/
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Editors’ Council concerned over army entry into media office
10 Feb 2026
The Editors’ Council has expressed concern over recent incidents of intimidation and harassment of journalists and media institutions, warning that such actions pose a serious threat to press freedom and the democratic process ahead of the national elections.
Referring to the army entering the office of a registered digital media outlet on February 7, the council termed it a “concerning example”.
It added that if any irregularity in disseminating news had occurred within that institution, appropriate legal procedures should have followed rather than arbitrary actions.
“The government, army chief, and chiefs of public organisations had been vocal for the past 18 months about their attempts to restore the tarnished reputation of law enforcement agencies. However, such incidents send a negative message to voters and media professionals ahead of the election,” said the statement issued yesterday.
The Editors’ Council also cautioned that irresponsible reporting and the spread of misinformation could undermine the integrity of election coverage. Calling for accountability, the council urged the government, security agencies, and all stakeholders to ensure the safety of journalists and uphold their responsibility in safeguarding democracy.
Source: thedailystar.net
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https://www.thedailystar.net/news/bangladesh/news/editors-council-concerned-over-army-entry-media-office-4102531
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US Court Orders Resumption of Afghan Special Immigrant Visa Processing
By Fidel Rahmati
February 10, 2026
A US federal judge ordered the Trump administration to resume processing Afghan Special Immigrant Visas (SIV), offering renewed hope to thousands awaiting relocation.
A federal court in Washington ordered the US administration to immediately restart processing Special Immigrant Visa (SIV) applications filed by Afghan refugees awaiting relocation.
Judge Tanya Chutkan ruled that an indefinite suspension of SIV processing violates congressional directives and earlier court rulings requiring timely consideration of applications.
The court instructed authorities to process visa cases under a clear schedule, despite broader travel restrictions on Afghan nationals remaining in effect.
Legal representatives said the ruling supports Afghans who worked alongside US forces and whose immigration cases have remained stalled far beyond legal deadlines.
The court also scheduled a February 24 hearing, requiring the administration to explain how it will ensure compliance with orders to accelerate visa processing.
Following the 2021 political transition in Afghanistan, tens of thousands of Afghans fled to neighboring countries while awaiting relocation through US resettlement programs.
Many applicants report waiting years for decisions, often facing uncertain legal status, financial hardship, and security risks while living in temporary conditions abroad.
The court decision is seen as a significant development for families fearing threats due to their previous cooperation with US institutions and military missions.
Source: khaama.com
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https://www.khaama.com/us-court-orders-resumption-of-afghan-special-immigrant-visa-processing/
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WFP Provides School Meals to 880,000 Children Across Afghanistan in 2025
By Fidel Rahmati
February 9, 2026
The World Food Programme says 880,000 Afghan children received school meals in 2025, supporting education amid worsening hunger and economic hardship nationwide.
The World Food Programme (WFP) said on Monday, Febraury 9 that it provided school meals to about 880,000 children across Afghanistan during 2025 through its nationwide nutrition programme.
WFP said the initiative aims to support education by encouraging families to keep children in school while addressing hunger affecting vulnerable communities.
According to the agency, meals fortified with vitamins and minerals help improve children’s concentration, learning ability, and overall health in classrooms across the country.
The organization previously described school feeding as life-saving for many Afghan children who often rely on these meals as their main daily nutrition source.
UNICEF earlier reported that about 942,000 children in Afghanistan suffer from severe acute malnutrition, while another 700,000 face moderate malnutrition risks.
The United Nations also estimates that more than 17 million people in Afghanistan are experiencing food insecurity as economic pressures and humanitarian needs continue to grow.
Aid agencies warn sustained funding and continued school feeding support remain crucial to prevent rising hunger from forcing more Afghan children out of classrooms.
Source: khaama.com
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https://www.khaama.com/wfp-provides-school-meals-to-880000-children-across-afghanistan-in-2025/
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KSrelief Launches Aid Distribution Project in Logar
February 10, 2026
PUL-E-ALAM: The King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center (KSrelief) has officially launched the fifth phase of its food aid distribution program, beginning with assistance to 1,000 families in Logar Province.
The program was inaugurated on Monday during a ceremony held in Pul-e-Alam, the provincial capital, the provincial Refugees and Repatriation Department said in a statement.
The event was attended by Mohammad Anwar Din Parwar, Deputy Governor of Logar; Masoud Akhundzada, Director of Provincial Refugee Affairs; and representatives from KSrelief and the Tawhid Welfare Organization for Afghanistan Orphans (TWOAO), the statement said.
Launched under the title “The Fifth Food Distribution Program – 2026,” the initiative aims to deliver food supplies to thousands of vulnerable families, including newly returned refugees, in Pul-e-Alam and the Mohammad Agha district, the statement said.
“Each beneficiary family will receive essential food items, including rice, beans, flour, oil, and sugar,” the statement said, adding that the distribution is being carried out by the Tawhid Welfare Organization for Afghanistan Orphans (TWOAO), which is responsible for managing and delivering the aid packages.
KSrelief, which has been active in Afghanistan for several years, has recently intensified its humanitarian operations, particularly for families forcibly displaced from neighboring countries.
Source: thekabultimes.com
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https://thekabultimes.com/ksrelief-launches-aid-distribution-project-in-logar/
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Kabul, Tehran Stress Continued Border Cooperation
February 10, 2026
KABUL: Mullah Noorullah Noori, the country’s Minister of Borders, and Tibal Affairs, in a telephone conversation with Kazem Gharibabadi, Iran’s Deputy Minister for Legal and International Affairs, discussed bilateral border cooperation.
The two sides emphasised the need to strengthen existing border cooperation and to update border documents and boundary markers, the ministry said in a statement on Monday.
The Iranian official described the current border collaboration between the two countries as positive.
Source: thekabultimes.com
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https://thekabultimes.com/kabul-tehran-stress-continued-border-cooperation/
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Supporting Returnees Remains Top IEA Priority, Minister Hanif Says
February 10, 2026
KABUL: The country’s Minister of Economy Qari Din Mohammad Hanif reaffirmed that addressing the challenges faced by returnees is among the Islamic Emirate’s highest priorities.
In a meeting with Sean Callahan, President of the international organization CRS, Minister Hanif emphasized the importance of expanding assistance for returnees, noting that the government is actively working to improve living conditions for families returning from abroad, according to a statement from the ministry on Monday.
A total of 34 residential townships has already been allocated for returnees in 25 provinces across the country, he said, stressing that these townships urgently require essential public facilities, including access to clean drinking water, the construction of shelters, clinics, schools, and other vital social services.
Minister Hanif called on partner organizations to intensify their efforts in building infrastructure within these areas and to create employment opportunities through vocational training and income-generating projects.
Representatives of CRS provided detailed information on their ongoing humanitarian activities, including programs in agriculture, livestock, cash assistance, and support for small businesses benefiting returnees in Balkh and Kunduz.
They assured the Ministry of their continued cooperation and their intention to expand services into additional provinces.
Source: thekabultimes.com
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https://thekabultimes.com/supporting-returnees-remains-top-iea-priority-minister-hanif-says/
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Mideast
Lebanon calls for pressure to be put on Israel to prevent violations of international law
NAJIA HOUSSARI
February 10, 2026
BEIRUT: Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam has instructed the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to act with the UN to put pressure on Israel to disclose the fate of a Lebanese citizen abducted by the Israeli army early on Monday.
Israelis reportedly crossed into Lebanese territory, entering the town of Habbariyeh in the Hasbaya District, and abducted the citizen from his home.
This incursion and abduction is the first of its kind since the cessation of hostilities between the countries.
Meanwhile, Israel continued its airstrikes on Monday, killing three people, including a 4-year-old child, when a civilian vehicle was targeted.
A sniper also shot another person in the border town of Ayta ash Shab, who reportedly later died.
Atwi Atwi was the man added to the list of Lebanese prisoners in Israel, bringing the total to 24. Three of the prisoners were captured before the last Israeli war on Lebanon.
An Israeli force from the 210th Brigade in the Mount Dov area reportedly infiltrated from the Ruwaisat Al-Alam outpost toward Sadanah Hill, traveling on foot for about an hour before reaching a house on the outskirts of Habbariyeh.
The soldiers stormed the house and handcuffed Atwi’s wife. Atwi, 65, attempted to resist but was captured and taken toward Israeli border positions.
The abducted official was the former mayor of Habbariyeh and the head of the Islamic Group in Hasbaya and Marjeyoun, an ally of Iran-backed Hezbollah in its recent war. He works in social and humanitarian affairs in the area, according to several residents.
An Israeli army statement confirmed Atwi’s abduction in a “nighttime operation” which had been formulated on intelligence information gathered in recent weeks. The statement added that he was transferred to Israel for interrogation and that weapons were found inside the building.
The statement also affirmed that the Israeli army would continue its operations to eliminate “threats on the northern front.”
The Israeli escalation came a day after Salam’s visit to the border region, which left residents in the south with the impression that “the state stands with them.”
In a statement issued on Monday, Salam said that “the incident constitutes a blatant assault on Lebanon’s sovereignty, a violation of the declaration of cessation of hostilities, and a flagrant breach of international law.”
He stressed that “it will remain a national priority, and the state will follow up on it through all diplomatic and legal channels in place.”
The local municipality convened a meeting with a delegation from the UN Interim Force in Lebanon to brief it on the incident, and residents of the area of the abduction organized a protest expressing their fear that “Israeli practices prevalent in the 1970s could return, when Israeli soldiers used to infiltrate deep into populated areas.”
Bassam Hammoud, deputy head of the political bureau of the Islamic Group in Lebanon, said that the group was “committed to the decisions of the Lebanese state and to what has been approved under the cessation of hostilities agreement.”
Hammoud added: “We have taken no actions outside the framework of this agreement, whether military, field-based, or otherwise. And even if they found a rifle inside the house (belonging to Atwi), so what? Is there any Lebanese home that does not have a rifle inside?”
The Islamic Group issued a statement which held “the Israeli occupation fully responsible for any harm that may befall the abducted individual.”
Meanwhile, the Israeli army said that it had targeted a civilian vehicle near the town of Yanouh, describing the attack as “an airstrike to assassinate Hezbollah’s Head of Artillery Ahmad Ali Salami, in (the) Yanouh area.”
The Israeli army said in a statement: “Ahmad carried out numerous terror attacks throughout the war against IDF troops and Israel, and recently operated to rehabilitate Hezbollah’s artillery capabilities from within the civilian population in Lebanon, in violation of the ceasefire understandings.”
The airstrike killed Salami, 4-year-old Ali Hassan Jaber and his father Hassan.
Lebanese Interior Minister Ahmad Al-Hajjar condemned the attack, noting that Hassan Jaber was “a member of the Internal Security Forces who was killed while passing by with his son near the site targeted by the Israeli airstrike in the town of Yanouh.”
Al-Hajjar also condemned the abduction of Atwi from his home, describing the act as “an unacceptable transgression and a flagrant violation of Lebanese sovereignty and security.”
The Israeli army claimed that it was “aware of allegations indicating that uninvolved civilians had fallen as a result of the strike,” explaining that, prior to carrying it out, “measures were taken aimed at limiting subsequent harm to civilians, including the use of precision munitions and the conduct of aerial surveillance, and it regrets any harm that befell uninvolved civilians.”
It added: “The Israeli army is working to reduce damage as much as possible, and the incident is under review.”
Source: arabnews.com
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UK calls on Israel to reverse its move to expand control over West Bank
February 10, 2026
LONDON: Britain on Monday called on Israel to reverse its decision to expand control over the West Bank, joining Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates in criticizing the move.
“The UK strongly condemns the Israeli Security Cabinet’s decision yesterday to expand Israeli control over the West Bank,” the British government said. Critics have said Israel’s move to ease settlement expansion and widen its powers in the West Bank went in the direction of annexing occupied land.
“Any unilateral attempt to alter the geographic or demographic make-up of Palestine is wholly unacceptable and would be inconsistent with international law. We call on Israel to reverse these decisions immediately,” the British government added.
Source: arabnews.com
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Iran offers concessions on nuclear program
February 10, 2026
TEHRAN: Iran offered on Monday to dilute its highly enriched uranium if the US lifts sanctions.
Mohammad Eslami, head of the country’s Atomic Energy Organization, did not specify whether this included all sanctions on Iran or only those imposed by the US.
The new move follows talks on the issue in Oman last week that both sides described as positive and constructive.
Diluting uranium means mixing it with blend material to reduce the enrichment level, so that the final product does not exceed a given enrichment threshold.
Before US and Israeli strikes on its nuclear facilities in June last year, Iran had been enriching uranium to 60 percent, far exceeding the 3.67 percent limit allowed under the now-defunct nuclear agreement with world powers in 2015.
According to the UN’s nuclear watchdog, Iran is the only state without nuclear weapons that is enriching uranium to 60 percent.
The whereabouts of more than 400 kg of highly enriched uranium that Iran possessed before the war is also unknown. UN inspectors last recorded its location on June 10. Such a stockpile could allow Iran to build more than nine nuclear bombs if enrichment reached 90 percent.
Supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei urged Iranians on Monday to resist foreign pressure.
“National power is less about missiles and aircraft and more about the will and resolve of the people,” Khamenei said. “Show it again and frustrate the enemy.”
Nevertheless, despite this defiance, Iran has signaled it could come to some kind of deal to dial back its nuclear program and avoid further conflict with Washington.
Source: arabnews.com
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https://www.arabnews.com/node/2632421/middle-east
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What will the new Israeli measures change in the West Bank?
February 09, 2026
RAMALLAH, Palestinian Territories: New Israeli measures for the occupied West Bank, announced over the weekend, are expected to accelerate the territory’s annexation, ease land purchases by settlers and push Palestinians into increasingly isolated enclaves.
The full text of the latest decisions remains classified, but some details were disclosed in a statement. While it was unclear when the new rules would take effect, they do not require further approval.
Below are key changes that are expected to reshape the West Bank.
- Easy land purchases by settlers? -
Far-right Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, a member of the security cabinet who himself lives in a settlement, said the moves would make it easy for settlers to purchase land in the West Bank, occupied by Israel since 1967.
Until now, land acquisitions for settlers were typically carried out through intermediary companies.
The new measures repeal a decades-old law that barred Jews from directly purchasing land in the West Bank.
“This will allow Jews to purchase land in Judea and Samaria exactly as they do in Tel Aviv or Jerusalem,” Smotrich said.
Under the new rules, Israelis or companies registered in their name will no longer require a special permit from the state to complete land transactions.
Peace Now, an Israeli anti-settlement watchdog, said the permit system had been intended “to prevent forgeries and to curb settlers’ real-estate initiatives that contradict government policy.”
More than 500,000 Israeli settlers live among three million Palestinians in the West Bank.
Members of Netanyahu’s coalition like Smotrich or fellow far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir are ardent supporters of the settlement movement, and have long advocated annexing the West Bank.
“Smotrich, Ben Gvir and the rest of them have been telling us that this is their policy,” Palestinian political scientist Ali Jarbawi told AFP.
“Now it has come to fruition.”
The current Israeli government has fast-tracked settlement expansion, approving a record 52 settlements in 2025.
- Palestinians to live in enclaves? -
The measures will also increase Israel’s control in parts of the West Bank where the Ramallah-based Palestinian Authority exercises power.
Under the Oslo Accords of the 1990s, the West Bank was divided into areas A, B, and C — under Palestinian, mixed and Israeli governance respectively.
According to Smotrich, the new measures will extend greater Israeli authority into A and B “with regard to water offenses, damage to archaeological sites, and environmental hazards that pollute the entire region.”
Palestinian experts warn the initiatives would displace Palestinians living near archaeological sites, landfills or springs, with Jarbawi saying Israel wants “to drive Palestinians into small pieces of land, basically, their major cities, enclaves.”
Yonatan Mizrachi of Peace Now said the steps would further weaken the Palestinian Authority — established under the Oslo Accords as an interim governing body pending the creation of a Palestinian state — accusing Israel of “advancing annexation.”
More Israeli control over religious sites? -
The measures expand Israeli control over two major religious sites in the southern West Bank: Rachel’s Tomb near Bethlehem and the Cave of the Patriarchs in Hebron, both holy to Jews, Christians and Muslims.
In Hebron, the West Bank’s largest Palestinian city, municipal bylaws will be amended to transfer building-permit authority in areas around the Cave of the Patriarchs, known to Muslims as the Ibrahimi Mosque, to COGAT, Israel’s military body overseeing civilian affairs in the Palestinian territories.
Asma Al-Sharbati, Hebron’s deputy mayor, called the move “the most dangerous ongoing Israeli trend,” adding settlement expansion was happening at a “rapid pace.”
Rachel’s Tomb, currently administered by the Bethlehem municipality, will similarly be placed under a newly created Israeli authority.
Source: arabnews.com
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https://www.arabnews.com/node/2632403/middle-east
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UN chief warns Israel’s actions in West Bank are eroding prospects for a two-state solution
EPHREM KOSSAIFY
February 09, 2026
NEW YORK CITY: UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres warned on Monday that the approval by Israeli authorities of new administrative and enforcement measures in the West Bank undermine the prospects for a two-state solution.
Israel’s Security Cabinet this weekend approved new rules designed to strengthen control over the occupied West Bank, make it easier for Israeli settlers to buy land there and give Israeli officials stronger powers to enforce laws on Palestinians.
Guterres said he was “gravely concerned” by the reported decision to authorize the new measures in Areas A and B of the West Bank, warning that the current trajectory of developments on the ground was eroding the possibility of a negotiated settlement between Israelis and Palestinians.
He reiterated that all Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank, including East Jerusalem, lack legal validity and constitute a “flagrant violation of international law.”
Such actions, including Israel’s continuing presence in the occupied Palestinian territory, were destabilizing and unlawful, he added, as recalled by the International Court of Justice.
Guterres called on Israeli authorities to reverse their decision and urged all parties to safeguard what he described as the only viable path to lasting peace: a negotiated two-state solution in line with international law and Security Council resolutions.
Israel has rejected international criticism of its settlement policies and disputes claims that they violate international law.
Source: arabnews.com
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Israeli attacks on Lebanon kill four, including security officer and child
February 09, 2026
BEIRUT: Israeli attacks on Lebanon killed four people on Monday including a Lebanese security forces member and his child, hours after the Israeli army seized a member of Islamist group Jamaa Islamiya.
Israel frequently strikes Lebanon despite a November 2024 ceasefire aimed at ending more than a year of hostilities with militant group Hezbollah.
On Monday, Lebanon’s health ministry said an Israeli strike on the village of Yanuh in the south killed three people.
The Israeli military said the strike targeted Ahmad Ali Salameh, who it alleged was Hezbollah’s head of artillery and had been working to restore the group’s capabilities.
In addition to Salameh, the strike killed a member of Lebanon’s security forces and his three-year-old child, who were passing by, according to Lebanon’s state-run National News Agency (NNA).
The Israeli military said the incident was “under review” after it was made “aware of the claim that uninvolved civilians were killed.”
Later on Monday, the health ministry reported that Israeli gunfire killed one person in the border village of Aita Al-Shaab, with the Israeli military saying it killed a Hezbollah member.
It alleged he was “gathering intelligence on (Israeli) troops and operated to rehabilitate Hezbollah’s terrorist infrastructure in southern Lebanon.”
In addition to recurring attacks, the Israeli army still has troops deployed on five border positions in Lebanon it deems strategic.
Monday’s incidents come hours after the Jamaa Islamiya group, an ally of Palestinian militants Hamas, accused Israel of seizing one of its officials, Atwi Atwi, from his home in the Hasbaya district, south Lebanon, and taking him to an unknown location.
The group, which has claimed responsibility for multiple attacks against Israel during the war with Hezbollah, condemned “the Israeli occupation forces’ infiltration.”
The Israeli military said that it “apprehended a senior terrorist” in the group who was then “transferred for further questioning in Israeli territory.”
Atwi’s capture came hours after Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam completed a two-day visit to the south, which suffered extensive damage during the conflict with Hezbollah, with thousands displaced.
Salam in a statement condemned Atwi’s “abduction,” calling it a “blatant attack on Lebanese sovereignty, a violation of the ceasefire agreement and “a breach of international law.”
Hezbollah meanwhile called on the state to “take deterrent measures and firm and clear positions, and to act immediately at all political, diplomatic and legal levels, and to work seriously to protect citizens.”
Lebanon accuses Israel of having abducted several other citizens since the start of the hostilities.
Hezbollah lawmaker Hussein Al-Hajj Hassan said last month that Israel was holding “20 Lebanese prisoners,” alleging 10 had been abducted “inside Lebanese territory after the ceasefire.”
Lebanon says Israel must release these detainees and withdraw from the border positions it retains, in addition to halting air strikes on Lebanon.
Source: arabnews.com
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Syrian officials attend World Defense Show 2026 in Saudi Arabia
February 10, 2026
LONDON: A delegation from the Syrian Arab Republic visited the World Defense Show 2026 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on Monday.
Led by Brig. Gen. Asem Hawari, commander of air forces and air defense, the group also included officials from the country’s Ministry of Defense. They met representatives of military organizations and defense companies to learn about the latest technologies and to discuss collaborations and the exchange of expertise, the Syrian Arab News Agency reported.
The biennial World Defense Show was founded by Saudi Arabia's General Authority for Military Industries in 2022. It has become what organizers describe as a key global platform for defense professionals that brings together industry leaders, military figures and government officials to explore advances in air, land sea and space defense and security.
The 2026 event, titled “The Future of Defense Integration,” began on Sunday and continues until Thursday at the Riyadh Exhibition and Convention Center.
Source: arabnews.com
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https://www.arabnews.com/node/2632406/middle-east
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Fire at Iraq oil refinery kills one, injures 6
February 09, 2026
BAGHDAD: A fire at a key oil refinery killed one worker and injured six others on Monday in northern Iraq, authorities said.
The fire erupted at an upgrading unit in the Baiji refinery, once the country’s largest oil refinery, in Salaheddin province.
The Iraqi government’s security media unit said in a statement that firefighters had extinguished the fire.
It added that “one worker was killed and six others were injured.”
Local official in Baiji city Adel Al-Daj told AFP that the explosion was caused by a technical malfunction.
The Baiji refinery, 200 kilometers (124 miles) north of Baghdad, was heavily damaged in some of the fiercest battles with the Daesh group after it swept across a third of Iraq in 2014.
After the facility’s full rehabilitation, authorities reopened it in February 2024.
Iraq is one of the world’s biggest oil producers and crude oil sales make up 90 percent of budget revenues.
Source: arabnews.com
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Europe
King Charles 'ready to support' police as they assess Andrew claims over Epstein
February 10, 2026
Sean Coughlan
King Charles has made his first intervention in the latest round of revelations in the Epstein scandal, saying Buckingham Palace is ready to support the police as they consider allegations against his brother Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor.
"The King has made clear, in words and through unprecedented actions, his profound concern at allegations which continue to come to light in respect of Mr Mountbatten-Windsor's conduct," a Palace spokesman said.
"While the specific claims in question are for Mr Mountbatten-Windsor to address, if we are approached by Thames Valley Police we stand ready to support them as you would expect," he said.
Thames Valley Police confirmed it is assessing whether there are grounds to investigate a complaint by the anti-monarchy group Republic, which reported Mountbatten-Windsor for suspected misconduct in public office and breach of official secrets.
Emails from the recently released batch of Epstein files appear to show the former prince passing on reports of visits to Singapore, Hong Kong and Vietnam and confidential details of investment opportunities.
After the trips, on 30 November 2010, he appears to have forwarded official reports of those visits sent by his then-special adviser, Amit Patel, to Epstein, five minutes after receiving them.
There were also details of investment opportunities in Afghanistan, described as "confidential", which appear to have been passed on to Epstein on 24 December 2010.
Under official guidance, trade envoys have a duty of confidentiality over sensitive, commercial, or political information about their official visits.
The Buckingham Palace statement says that the King and Queen's "thoughts and sympathies have been, and remain with, the victims of any and all forms of abuse".
Earlier on Monday the King had travelled to Clitheroe where a heckler shouted: "How long have you known about Andrew?" The rest of the crowd booed the man putting the question.
The Buckingham Palace intervention follows an earlier statement from the spokesperson for the Prince and Princess of Wales, saying they were "deeply concerned" by the latest revelations about Epstein.
"Their thoughts remain focused on the victims," said a Kensington Palace spokesperson, ahead of Prince William's visit to Saudi Arabia this week.
Since the release of three million more documents related to Epstein, there has been growing pressure on Mountbatten-Windsor, with claims a second woman was sent to the UK by Jeffrey Epstein for a sexual encounter with him.
Photographs appearing to show him kneeling on all fours over a female lying on the ground were also included in the latest batch of files.
There has also been embarrassment for his ex-wife Sarah Ferguson. Emails signed "Sarah" show appeals for support and money from sex offender Epstein.
Last week, Andrew was moved more quickly than expected from his home at Royal Lodge in Windsor to the King's private estate in Sandringham.
In October 2025, after a previous wave of revelations about his links to Epstein, Mountbatten-Windsor was stripped of his titles as a prince and a duke.
Andrew has consistently and strenuously denied any wrongdoing. Being named in the Epstein files is not an indication of misconduct.
Source: bbc.com
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https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cqlgv3z79klo
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Norway police investigate diplomat over Epstein links
February 10, 2026
Tom McArthur
Police in Norway have opened an investigation into a high-profile diplomat and her husband over their links to the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
Mona Juul resigned as ambassador to Jordan and Iraq on Sunday, days after she was suspended following Norwegian media reports that each of her children would receive $5m (£3.6m) in a will allegedly signed by Epstein days before he died.
Emails released in the so-called Epstein files also appear to show that Juul's husband, Terje Rød-Larsen, had dinner with Epstein in Paris in June 2019, weeks before Epstein's arrest in the US on sex trafficking charges.
Juul's lawyer has said she "does not recognise the accusations made against her" and Rød-Larsen's lawyer said he is confident the investigation will clarify "there is no basis for criminal liability".
Appearing in the files is not an indication of wrongdoing.
Norway's foreign ministry has said Juul's contact with Epstein revealed a "serious lapse in judgement".
An "aggravated corruption" inquiry has been launched by the Norwegian economic crime unit Økokrim, police announced on Monday.
"Økokrim will, among other things, investigate whether benefits were received in connection with her position," police said in a statement, referring to Juul.
A property in Oslo has been searched in connection with the investigation.
Juul and Rød-Larsen were part of a small group of diplomats that negotiated the 1993-1995 Oslo Accords, which at the time were seen as a breakthrough in the conflict between Israel and the Palestinians.
Norwegian media reports Rød-Larsen had extensive communication with Epstein and arranged to meet him with Juul more than once.
The wider Epstein documents, released by the US Department of Justice last month, contain millions of private emails, images and FBI reports into the late sex offender - who died in 2019 while awaiting trial for sex trafficking.
Juul is the latest prominent public figure from the Nordic country to be drawn into the widening scandal surrounding the contents of the files, including Crown Princess Mette-Marit, former Prime Minister Thorbjørn Jagland, and chief executive of the World Economic Forum (WEF), Borge Brende.
Mette-Marit gave a "profound apology" to Norwegians for her friendship with Epstein, after it emerged they had exchanged messages for three years.
Jagland, who is also former head of the Norwegian Nobel Committee, is being investigated over his alleged links to Epstein. His lawyer said they would fully co-operate with the police probe.
The WEF ordered an independent review into Brende – who also served as the Norwegian foreign minister - over his interactions with the paedophile.
Brende has acknowledged dining with Epstein three times in 2018 and 2019 and communicating with him by email and text. He said he welcomes the WEF's decision to launch a review.
Source: bbc.com
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https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c5yg8yrypejo
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Terror attacks prove somebody in Kiev not ready for peace – Fyodor Lukyanov
9 Feb, 2026
Russia is demonstrating notable restraint in the face of constant attempts to undermine peace talks, Fyodor Lukyanov has said, commenting on the latest developments around negotiations to settle the Ukraine conflict.
Speaking to RT on the sidelines of the Valdai International Discussion Club on Monday, the research director suggested that attacks – such as an assassination attempt on a senior military intelligence general in Moscow last week – often coincide suspiciously with moments when progress in negotiations is expected.
“It’s quite interesting to follow that somebody tries to make demonstrative terror attacks exactly at the point when something is expected,” Lukyanov said. “Whether it is a consolidated decision on the side of the Ukrainian leadership or whether the leadership there is more or less split and there are different factions, I don’t know. But, of course, we see that at least somebody on that side is not interested in a successful end of talks.”
Lukyanov, who is also editor-in-chief of Russia in Global Affairs and chairman of the Presidium of the Council on Foreign and Defense Policy, outlined what he described as two parallel tracks in the current negotiation process.
One involves technical discussions, such as those held during recent talks in Abu Dhabi, focusing on what can and should be done once a political settlement is reached. According to Lukyanov, this track may prove relatively successful because negotiators on both sides understand the process.
However, the more decisive political track remains uncertain. He pointed to contacts involving Russian President Vladimir Putin’s special envoy Kirill Dmitriev and figures close to US President Donald Trump as an example of efforts aimed at achieving a broader political settlement.
“Sometimes we hear positive statements, sometimes more skeptical ones… The main positive development is that we still see this process going,” Lukyanov stressed, noting that media leaks about the talks may be misleading or inaccurate.
Commenting on Moscow’s response to provocations, Lukyanov said Russia has so far exercised significant restraint.
“As far as the Russian reaction is concerned, I think that Russia demonstrates a very, very high degree of patience,” he said. This, he explained, stems from Moscow’s desire to achieve a stable, long-term settlement despite attempts to sabotage the process.
Source: rt.com
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https://www.rt.com/russia/632231-ukraine-talks-provocations-lukyanov/
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Paul Cutts: Councillor suspended by Reform UK over 'islamophobic' social media posts visits to local mosque
Harry Harrison
9th Feb 2026
A Doncaster city councillor suspended by Reform UK over “islamophobic” social media posts has said he had been “thoughtless”, following an educational visit to a local Mosque.
Councillor Paul Cutts, who represents Wheatley Hills and Intake ward, visited the Jamia Masjid Sultania Mosque in February 1, 2026, following an invitation from Imam Habeeb Minhas.
The invite came after reporting by the Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS) which highlighted a number of controversial posts by Cllr Cutts on Facebook, which a statement from the Jamia Maskid Sultania Mosque labelled as “islamophobic”.
Reform UK’s then-interim leader, Cllr Karl Hughes, contacted the mosque to arrange the visit for himself and Cllr Cutts. It was the first time the offer has been accepted by Doncaster Reform UK councillors embroiled in social media scandals.
“I cannot tell you how informative the visit was. I learnt so much about Islam and Muslims; it was extremely enlightening,” Cllr Cutts said after the visit.
“The Jamia Masjid Sultania Mosque is a truly beautiful building and extremely impressive. Since my visit, I realise even more now what a thoughtless action it was to share the social media posts I did,” he added.
Cllrs Cutts and Hughes spoke at length with the Imam and Majid Chaudhary, secretary and liason manager on the mosque’s management committee.
The pair received a presentation covering topics like Shariah law, the hijab, terrorism, LGBTQ+ issues, similarities between Islam and Christianity, and fundemental beliefs regarding the Qu’ran.
Crucially, a significant portion of the session was dedicated for questions and discussion, which the mosque said provided the councillors an opportunity to “speak openly, ask questions, and raise objections in what was described as an open and safe environment”.
The visit concluded with a tour of the mosque’s interior and prayer hall.
Imam Habeeb Minhas said he remains open to further engagement and encouraged members of the Reform UK party and others to arrange future visits to the mosque in order to challenge Islamophobic attitudes and unconscious biases through direct conversation and education.
The visit puts Cllr Cutts in good stead to be reinstated to Reform UK following the conclusion of an investigation into the posts shared on Facebook.
As previously reported by the LDRS, the now-removed posts included three which targeted the Muslim faith in a derogatory way, including numerous racial and religious stereotypes. The fourth post included a video of people in a UK supermarket wearing Islamic dress and of Middle Eastern or South Asian ethnicity, which read: “England shouldn’t look like this.”
Source: doncasterfreepress.co.uk
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https://www.doncasterfreepress.co.uk/news/politics/doncaster-councillor-suspended-by-reform-uk-over-social-media-posts-enlightened-after-visit-to-local-mosque-5508332
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'Unacceptable': cops slammed for Muslim prayer bust-up
By Farid Farid
February 10 2026
Australia's top Muslim clerics have slammed the "heavy-handed" tactics of police disbanding a prayer group at a major protest that turned violent.
Videos shared on social media showed a group of Muslim men and women praying near Town Hall in Sydney's city centre before being pulled from their knees and taken away by police.
Another viral video shows a man, separate to the prayer group, with raised hands being repeatedly punched in the stomach by officers.
He was among the thousands who gathered for a massive demonstration against Israeli president Isaac Herzog's visit to Australia on Monday evening.
Many protesters have taken to social media to say they were assaulted and pepper-sprayed.
The president of the Australian National Imams Council said the violent actions of police officers while worshippers were in the middle of evening prayers was unwarranted.
"We are appalled and outraged ... the conduct of the NSW Police represents a breach of religious sanctity," Shadi Asuleiman told reporters on Tuesday.
"It is deeply distressing, unacceptable and not reflective of the Australia that we know, the values we claim to uphold."
Special envoy to combat Islamophobia Aftab Malik said he "unequivocally condemned" the police actions, describing it as a "very dark night".
"This behaviour was unprovoked and unacceptable," he said.
Mr Malik said he spoke with many eyewitnesses, who reported police punching and grabbing the worshippers, throwing them onto the concrete and using pepper spray.
"There cannot be any justification for this demeaning, aggressive and humiliating behaviour," he said.
The Lebanese Muslim Association squarely blamed NSW Premier Chris Minns for emboldening the police and called for an immediate apology.
Mr Minns said the full context needed to be taken into account as he defended relations between authorities and the Muslim community.
"NSW Police have had a strong and co-operative relationship with Sydney's Islamic and Arabic community, going back decades," he said.
"The circumstances facing NSW Police was incredibly difficult. It was in effect in the middle of a riot."
Greens senator Mehreen Faruqi, who is Muslim, rejected the premier's defence and called for him to investigate the actions of police officers.
"We have known that we are second-class citizens in this country for a very long time," she told reporters on Tuesday.
"Now everyone can see that Muslims are not just gaslighted, they are not just scapegoated, but they are actually assaulted by the very people who are supposed to protect us."
Source: northweststar.com.au
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https://www.northweststar.com.au/story/9171971/unacceptable-cops-slammed-for-muslim-prayer-bust-up/
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Sheep Trade: High hopes for price lift as Ramadan approaches
By Breifne O'Brien
February 9, 2026
This week's sheep trade has seen no lift in hogget price offers from the main processors, with one smaller outlet reducing its offer for the week.
However, Irish Cattle and Sheep Farmers' Association (ICSA) president Sean McNamara has said that he expects hogget prices to increase, and noted that the month-long Muslim festival of Ramadan is set to run from the evening of Tuesday, February 17 to Thursday, March 19.
Ramadan traditionally sees a lift in global demand for lamb, and McNamara is confident the festival will see a rise in demand for Irish products.
Sheep trade: Factory prices
This week, Kepak is quoting €7.50/kg plus a 15c/kg Quality Assurance (QA) bonus for spring lambs, leaving €7.65/kg on offer up to 23kg carcass-weight.
The Athleague, Co. Roscommon site is quoting €4.30-€4.40/kg for cull ewes again this week.
Irish Country Meats (ICM) is quoting €7.50/kg plus a 20c/kg QA bonus for lambs, leaving €7.70/kg on offer here up to 23kg carcass-weight again this week.
The Navan, Co. Meath and Camolin, Co. Wexford-based outlets are quoting €4.30/kg for cull ewes again this week.
Kildare Chilling is quoting €7.50/kg plus a 10c/kg QA bonus for hoggets up to 23kg carcass-weight again this week.
Kildare Chilling is quoting €4.40/kg plus a 10c/kg QA bonus for cull ewes with carcass weights from 35-43kg.
For cull ewes from 25-35kg carcass-weight, Kildare Chilling is quoting €4.00 plus a 10c/kg QA bonus, leaving €4.10/kg on offer here.
Ballon Meats in Co. Carlow is quoting €7.60/kg for hoggets this week. This offer is down 20c/kg on last week.
The outlet is quoting €5.00/kg for cull ewes again this week.
Source: agriland.ie
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https://cms.agriland.ie/farming-news/sheep-trade-high-hopes-for-price-lift-as-ramadan-approaches/
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Councillor says Facebook posts were 'thoughtless'
February 10, 2026
Harry Harrison
A Doncaster councillor who has been suspended over a number of Facebook posts criticising Islam has said his actions were "thoughtless" following a visit to a mosque.
The posts shared on Paul Cutts' Facebook page, created by other users and shared on his profile, included three which targeted the Muslim faith in a derogatory way, with a fourth criticising niqab face veils, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS).
Cutts, who represents Wheatley Hills and Intake, was suspended from Reform UK in January.
After visiting Jamia Masjid Sultania Mosque on 1 February, Cutts said he "realised even more now what a thoughtless action it was to share the social media posts I did".
Imam Habeeb Minhas invited Cutts to the mosque and councillor Karl Hughes helped to organise the visit.
Speaking afterwards, Cutts said: "I cannot tell you how informative the visit was. I learnt so much about Islam and Muslims; it was extremely enlightening.
"The Jamia Masjid Sultania Mosque is a truly beautiful building and extremely impressive."
Cutts and Hughes spoke at length with the Imam and listened to a presentation about topics including the hijab and fundamental beliefs regarding the Quran.
Imam Habeeb Minhas said he remained open to further engagement and encouraged members of the council to arrange future visits to the mosque.
Source: bbc.com
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https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/ce820lykg5lo
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Ukraine to launch arms exports – Zelensky
9 Feb, 2026
Ukraine’s Vladimir Zelensky has announced plans to open nearly a dozen weapons export centers across Europe this year.
Kiev remains heavily dependent on Western financial and military aid, which has totaled hundreds of billions of dollars since the escalation of the Ukraine conflict in 2022. Zelensky had previously stated that Ukraine would export surplus military equipment, including naval drones and anti-tank weapons.
In a statement on Sunday, Zelensky announced that export centers in Germany, the Baltics, and Nordic states could be operating as early as this year.
Russian officials have long accused Kiev of fueling global arms proliferation through the black market and have specifically alleged that Ukraine has supplied weapons, including those it received from the West, to militant groups in Africa.
Last week, Russian envoy to the UN Vassily Nebenzia reiterated the accusations and told the Security Council that “the Kiev regime is actively involved in... supplying terrorists with weapons, including drones, and training fighters,” citing the Sahel region as an example.
Mali’s Prime Minister Abdoulaye Maiga has accused Kiev of supplying kamikaze drones to terrorists.
On Sunday, Zelensky also announced that in addition to Ukrainian drone production lines already running in the UK, new ones are set to begin operating in Germany by mid-February, with the first drones soon to be delivered.
The shift to establishing production and export hubs in Europe comes amid continued Russian strikes on Ukraine’s domestic military-industrial and energy infrastructure.
On Saturday, Russia’s Defense Ministry reported conducting a large-scale retaliatory strike on Ukraine’s energy and military infrastructure, stating that it hit facilities involved in drone production and storage.
Since the escalation of the Ukraine conflict in 2022, Moscow has consistently opposed all financial and military aid to Kiev, arguing it only prolongs hostilities and threatens international security without affecting the inevitable outcome of the conflict.
Source: rt.com
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://www.rt.com/russia/632223-ukraine-arms-exports-europe/
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North America
CAIR to Release University Campus Islamophobia and Free Speech Report
February 9, 2026
On Wednesday, Feb. 11, the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, will release a report evaluating Islamophobia and free speech issues at more than 50 places of higher education nationwide.
Embargoed copies of the report are available to mainstream media. (Please email mhasan@cair.com from your work email address for an advance copy. The report is embargoed until 12:01 a.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 11.)
“This report rates campuses on the alarming methods their administrations used to target free speech and anti-genocide activism since October 2023,” said Dr. Maryam Hasan, CAIR’s research and advocacy specialist. “Islamophobia and anti-Palestinian racism on campus must be documented, measured, and rated so that students can identify which campuses protect free speech and faculty can determine where academic freedom flourishes.”
Last year, CAIR released its 2025 Civil Rights Report, Unconstitutional Crackdowns, which revealed that Islamophobia remains at record-high levels nationwide. CAIR said viewpoint discrimination against those speaking out against genocide and apartheid was a key factor in many cases.
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-to-release-university-campus-islamophobia-and-free-speech-report/
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My House Judiciary Subcommittee Testimony Against the "Preserving a Sharia-Free America Act"
2.9.2026
Tomorrow, I will be testifying against the proposed "Preserving a Sharia-Free America Act" at a hearing before the US House of Representatives Judiciary Committee's Subcommittee on the Constitution and Limited Government. My written testimony, already submitted to the Subcommittee is available here. Here is an excerpt from the Introduction, summarizing my testimony:
I am grateful for the opportunity to address some of the important issues raised by the proposed "Preserving a Sharia-Free America Act." My conclusions about this bill are clear and unequivocal: It is manifestly unconstitutional, in violation of the First Amendment. In addition, the vast majority of immigrant adherents of Sharia law – a category that includes all or most Muslims – pose no threat and there is no good reason to bar them from the United States.
The proposed legislation states that "Any alien in the United States found to be an adherent of Sharia law by the Secretary of State, Secretary of Homeland Security, or Attorney General shall have any immigration benefit, immigration relief, or visa revoked, be considered inadmissible or deportable, and shall be removed from the United States." This provision amounts to blatant discrimination on the basis of religious belief. As such, it violates both the Free Speech Clause and the Free Exercise Clause of the First Amendment.
In addition, expelling virtually all Muslim immigrants would needlessly harm many thousands of people and is not necessary to combat terrorism or any other threat to the United States. Far from seeking to undermine America's liberal democratic values, most Muslim immigrants – like those of other faiths – have come precisely because of those values. If enacted, the legislation would harm national security by playing into the hands of radical Islamists and terrorists.
The rest of the testimony covers the constitutional and policy issues in more detail, including explaining why there is no immigration exception to the First Amendment which allows exclusion and deportation of immigrants on the basis of their speech and religious beliefs. It also explains why discrimination on on the basis of religion is unconstitutional even with respect to rights and government benefits that are not themselves constitutional rights. These points are supported by Supreme Court precedents backed by conservative justices.
Source: reason.com
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://reason.com/volokh/2026/02/09/my-house-judiciary-subcommittee-testimony-against-the-preserving-a-sharia-free-america-act/
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CAIR-GA, GAMVP to Co-Host Muslim Advocacy Day at Capitol Feb. 12
February 9, 2026
On Thursday, February 12, the Georgia chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-Georgia) and Georgia Muslim Voter Project (GAMVP) plan to host Muslim Advocacy Day at the Georgia State Capitol.
This event is designed to make advocacy accessible for Georgia Muslims and empower them to address key issues impacting Muslims in Georgia. The organizations will provide attendees with a lobbying workshop, discussing topics like voting rights, immigration and social justice. After the workshop, participants will have the opportunity to speak with their elected officials. Muslim elected officials, including Sen. Nabilah Islam Parkes, Rep. Ruwa Romman and Rep. Akbar Ali, will address attendees.
CAIR-Georgia’s mission is to protect civil rights, promote justice, empower American Muslims, and enhance the understanding of Islam.
Georgia Muslim Voter Project (GAMVP) empowers Georgia’s diverse Muslim communities to exercise their civic rights to the fullest extent possible by emphasizing the strength of collective participation through voter registration, education, engagement, and policy advocacy.
Source: cair.com
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://www.cair.com/press_releases/cair-ga-gamvp-to-co-host-muslim-advocacy-day-at-capitol-feb-12/
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COMMUNITY ADVISORY: CAIR Releases ‘Eid Everywhere’ Campaign Toolkit for Eid Recognition in Schools
February 9, 2026
The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), the nation’s largest civil rights and advocacy organization, today announced the release of its Eid Everywhere Campaign Toolkit, a resource developed to help parents, students, educators, CAIR chapters, and community advocates secure recognition and religious accommodations for Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha in K–12 schools and colleges nationwide.
[NOTE: Eid al-Fitr (EED-al-FITTER), or “feast of fast-breaking,” is the first of the two major Muslim holidays after the end of the month-long fast of Ramadan. The second holiday, Eid al-Adha (EED-al-ODD-ha), comes near the end of the Hajj, or pilgrimage to Mecca.]
CAIR encourages communities to use the toolkit to engage school leaders ahead of upcoming Eid observances and to advocate for clear, written accommodation policies that are applied consistently.
The toolkit provides clear guidance on excused absences for Eid, avoiding major exams or mandatory assignments during Ramadan and Eid, and adopting inclusive policies that respect Muslim religious observances—especially in districts and campuses with growing Muslim populations.
“Muslim students should never be penalized for observing their faith,” said Robert S. McCaw, CAIR’s Government Affairs Department Director. “Eid Everywhere is about ensuring Muslim students across the country can celebrate Eid without penalty, exclusion, or academic disadvantage. We want to see Eid days clearly recognized on school calendars nationwide, just as other major religious and cultural holidays are. No student should miss exams, fall behind in coursework, or be excluded from school activities for observing their faith. Placing Eid on school calendars strengthens true inclusivity, supports student well-being, and affirms our shared commitment to religious freedom and equal treatment in every school and campus.”
CAIR also released its Toolkit on Promoting Muslim Civic Engagement in Local & State Governments as a comprehensive resource for Muslim community members, Islamic organizations, and allies, serving as a strategic advocacy guide with sample resolutions, proclamations, executive orders, and legislation from this year and past years that address key issues impacting Muslim communities nationwide.
Source: cair.com
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://www.cair.com/press_releases/community-advisory-cair-releases-eid-everywhere-campaign-toolkit-for-eid-recognition-in-schools/
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CAIR Expresses Solidarity with Australians Protesting Visit by Genocidal Israeli President, Condemns Attack on Muslim Worshipers
February 9, 2026
The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today expressed solidarity with Australians protesting a visit by the genocidal Israeli President Isaac Herzog after police abused protesters and forcibly stopped Muslims from praying.
In a statement, Washington, D.C., based CAIR said:
‘We express solidarity with the Australians as they exercise their right to peacefully protest a visit to their nation by Israeli president Isaac Herzog, who infamously declared at the start of the genocide that there were no innocent civilians in Gaza. We also strongly condemn Australian police officers for attacking a group of Australian Muslims as they peacefully prayed. This assault on worshipers was an obscene act of bigotry and those responsible should be held accountable.”
Last week, CAIR called on all members of Congress to condemn Israel’s reported use of chemical weapons to attack Lebanon.
CAIR also condemned Israel’s latest massacre of Palestinians in Gaza, which killed 21 people, including two infants, and to oppose continued U.S. funding for Israeli war crimes amid ongoing ceasefire violations.
TAKE ACTION NOW: SIGN CAIR’S ACTION ALERT!
Over the weekend, CAIR said Israeli attacks in Gaza that reportedly murdered some 30 additional people, including a number of children, once again show that the so-called “ceasefire” is a myth that Israel uses to continue its genocide and ethnic cleansing.
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-expresses-solidarity-with-australians-protesting-visit-by-genocidal-israeli-president-condemns-attack-on-muslim-worshipers/
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Temporary Homeless Shelter At Uptown’s American Islamic College To Close This Summer
Madison Savedra
February 10, 2026
UPTOWN — A city shelter that was opened to house migrants is closing this year.
American Islamic College, 640 W. Irving Park Road, will stop operating as a family shelter June 30, city officials confirmed.
The college opened as a temporary migrant shelter in 2023, when thousands of migrants were arriving to the city. It was one of the city’s biggest migrant shelters, with between 500-600 expected to be housed there during the crisis. The facility was brought under the city’s general shelter system, which combined the city’s migrant and homeless shelters under one program in late 2024. It primarily housed families needing shelter.
The closure is part of a planned shelter decompression, where the city rightsizes the number of its shelter beds to meet current demand, said Linsey Maughan, a spokesperson for the Department of Family and Support Services.
There are currently 424 people at the shelter, which is below the maximum capacity, Maughan said. The shelter hasn’t been at full capacity for more than a year, she said.
“This is not a systemwide shutdown of family shelter, and it does not reduce the City’s commitment to ensuring families can access shelter when they need it,” Maughan said in a statement. “Families are being connected to other appropriate shelter options, and the overall family shelter system continues to operate with sufficient capacity.”
Ald. Angela Clay (46th), whose ward includes American Islamic College, said it was always her understanding the shelter would be temporary since the historical campus is slated for redevelopment.
Clay’s office was notified a few weeks ago that the shelter would be closing over the summer and that shelter staff would begin notifying residents, she said.
Families will be offered placement at other shelters across the city as the shelter decompression happens in phases, with the hope that it won’t impact kids’ school year, Clay said.
Clay said she’s grateful for how the 46th Ward stepped up to welcome and support the families that have called the American Islamic College home since it was opened in 2023.
“This is a shelter on the lakefront and in one of the best cities on the planet, and we were able to make it work and give people an opportunity and an experience in a portion of their life where they didn’t have that stability,” Clay said. “We showed them that it was possible and that we wanted them here.”
Clay encouraged anyone who may know of affordable apartments in their buildings or know local landlords interested in how they can provide housing opportunities to contact her office.
Future Development At American Islamic College
Plans to redevelop the college campus have been in the works for years and were officially greenlit by the city in 2022.
The project calls for the preservation and overhaul of the existing school buildings, which will house 245 apartments. The complex will see features like its 1,000 seat auditorium transformed into shared amenity space, including coworking space according to the development’s website. Its gymnasium will become a fitness center and will include the retention of an existing basketball court.
A 22-story tower will be built on an existing parking lot at the site, with the tower to include 192 senior living apartments.
The development is supposed to be completed by 2028.
The American Islamic College has resided since 1983 in the Uptown campus originally built as Immaculata High School.
Opened in 1921, Immaculata High School was an all-girls Catholic institution. It was designed by Barry Byrne, who worked under Frank Lloyd Wright. In 1983, the school complex received Chicago Landmark status.
The high school shuttered in 1981, with the American Islamic College moving into the campus two years later. The college has previously said it intends to move elsewhere in the area to accommodate the redevelopment.
Source: blockclubchicago.org
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://blockclubchicago.org/2026/02/09/temporary-homeless-shelter-at-uptowns-american-islamic-college-to-close-this-summer/
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What exactly are Greenland’s riches that Trump wants so much?
9 Feb, 2026
Amid growing geopolitical turbulence and intensifying competition for strategic resources, the Arctic is becoming a key theater of global rivalry. Energy policy in the modern world is a central element of national and international strategy. In recent weeks, Greenland has once again found itself at the center of international news. Donald Trump, having returned to the White House, has not simply returned to the old idea of ”purchasing” the island – he’s now talking about “full and indefinite access,” payments of a million dollars to each resident, and even annexation plans.
Let’s examine why this icy territory has become so hot.
Geologically, Greenland’s resources can be assessed as significant, but economically, they are still hard to access. Greenland is a resource-rich but underdeveloped Arctic island with proven reserves of gold and a range of metals, suspected but unrealized oil and gas potential, and serious environmental, infrastructural, and political constraints on their economic development. The conversation about Greenland is rooted in long-term shifts in the global economy and security. Following Trump’s statements and responses from local authorities, the discussion has shifted to practical matters: who exactly will gain access to these resources, and how will this change the balance in the Arctic?
In early 2026, Greenland firmly established itself as a central indicator of global geopolitical and geoeconomic transformations, where the interests of great powers, climate challenges, and the struggle for control of critical resources intersect in the face of accelerating melting of Arctic ice. According to US estimates (as recently as 20 years ago), up to 30 billion barrels of oil are hidden beneath glaciers and continental shelves, despite three decades of exploration by major companies such as Chevron, ENI, and Shell having yielded no commercial discoveries. A moratorium on new licenses was later imposed in 2021 due to climate concerns. The Jameson Land Basin contains projects with potential reserves of four billion barrels. The problem is the lack of infrastructure and the need for spill safeguards, estimated at billions of dollars.
Despite Greenland’s rich mineral resources, only nine active mines have opened since World War II. Only two are currently operating: the White Mountain anorthosite mine and the small, high-grade Nalunaq gold mine.
Rare earth metal mining is not currently underway. Poor transport and energy infrastructure hinders development. Large-scale rare earth metal mining in Greenland requires significant investment in creating suitable conditions.
The stakes for global powers
China has no Arctic territory, but is actively developing an economic presence through the Australian company Greenland Minerals, which plans to mine rare earths on the Kvanefjeld mineral deposit in the south of the island. China is willing to invest in Greenland’s infrastructure to support its mining projects and Arctic plans. However, so far, no major projects have been implemented. In 2018, a Chinese construction company participated in a tender for the construction and expansion of airports in Greenland’s capital Nuuk, as well as the towns of Ilulissat and Qaqortoq. The project was estimated to cost nearly $550 million. This angered the US and Denmark. US Secretary of Defense James Mattis called on the Danish government to intervene to prevent China from gaining a foothold in the region. Denmark withdrew from the tender and financed the airport upgrades itself to prevent China from participating. Although Denmark intervened due to security concerns, Greenlanders’ desire for economic independence may yet push them to accept foreign investment from China.
Russia, which controls the Northern Sea Route, views the strengthening of the US position in Greenland as a threat to its Arctic interests, especially in the context of cooperation with China on Arctic Ocean development.
Greenland is strategically important because it contains all kinds of rare earth metals, including neodymium and dysprosium, which are needed for powerful magnets in electric vehicles and wind turbines. It also contains terbium, which makes magnets more heat-resistant, and praseodymium, which enhances their magnetic properties.
Competition for key minerals is growing as countries seek to reduce their dependence on suppliers. This is driving interest in deposits in remote regions where mining was previously unprofitable due to challenging conditions. The Arctic is one such region where climate change and geopolitics are impacting Greenland’s rare earth resources and its strategic location.
The mining industry typically focuses on accessible deposits with good technological indicators. However, supply issues have forced a reconsideration of projects that offer diversification benefits, even if they are more expensive. Governments and companies are now evaluating mining projects based not only on economic benefits but also on strategic security.
Greenland found itself in the spotlight due to the Cold War over the Arctic. Denmark gained sovereignty over the island in 1933, granted autonomy in 1979, and transferred control of its resources to local authorities in 2009. Foreign policy and defense, however, remained under Copenhagen’s control.
Trump has stated that the US needs Greenland for national security reasons. His aides have suggested that the US could seize Danish territory to protect its interests. This underscores the Trump administration’s view of resource security as a matter of national importance. Greenland contains iron ore, graphite, tungsten, palladium, vanadium, zinc, gold, uranium, copper, and oil. But rare earth elements have attracted the most attention. The US is concerned about the supply of rare earth elements for defense and commercial industries. In 2024, the US escalated the situation. Donald Trump declared “the need for American control of Greenland as a key element of US defense” and even threatened a military takeover, sparking concern in Europe. EU countries such as France, Germany, the UK, and Italy emphasized that Greenland belongs to its residents and began discussing a stronger military presence in the Arctic. In 2025, China imposed export controls on certain rare earth elements, leading to supply disruptions and production halts at Western automakers. Trump took steps to address these issues, such as a partnership with the American company MP Materials and agreements with Saudi Arabia, Japan, and Australia to develop deposits outside of China.
The EU remained silent for a long time, but in 2023, it signed a cooperation agreement with Greenland and allocated funds for the Malmbjerg molybdenum mine. As the former Danish foreign minister noted, Europe risks missing its opportunity and ceding control of strategic resources to the US and China.
Greenland’s wealth lies not only in gold, oil, and rare earth elements, but also in its Arctic location and political agency. Greenlanders don’t sell out their identity, even for astronomical sums – they measure their wealth not in barrels of oil, but in sovereignty, environmental sustainability, and connection to European values. It’s important to remember: the question isn’t whether Greenland is rich. Arctic wealth is difficult to access due to the short drilling season and the lack of roads, ports, and pipelines. The key is who and how quickly it will develop its resources in the face of climate change and geopolitical competition.
Not only the island’s future depends on this, but also the balance of power in the Arctic, which is no longer a backwater but a battleground for influence. Greenland is showing the world that in the 21st century, the greatest wealth lies not in ice reserves, but in the ability to independently determine one’s own destiny.
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte has stated that the agreement he reached with US President Donald Trump on Greenland will require alliance allies to strengthen Arctic security. “I have no doubt that we can do this quite quickly. Of course, I hope for 2026, hopefully even early 2026,” he said in an interview with Reuters.
The framework agreement in question was discussed by Rutte with Trump on January 21 on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum in Davos. According to media reports, it is envisaged that Denmark will retain sovereignty over Greenland, but the US will be able to build military bases on the island with ownership rights. The Danish authorities maintain that the NATO secretary-general did not have the authority to conduct such negotiations.
The process of changing Greenland’s status in the mid-20th century became one of the most illustrative examples of how a small state managed to exploit international legal mechanisms and geopolitical circumstances to maintain control over a territory formally considered a colony.
Greenland in 2026 confirms a trend: small resource territories are becoming arenas for “resource neocolonialism,” where the US, through Trump, imposes hybrid control, the EU lags behind, and Russia and China respond symmetrically. The sovereignty of small actors is vulnerable to climate and minerals, making the Arctic a new pole of multipolarity. Greenland’s energy potential – from hydrocarbons to rare earth elements – remains more of a strategic asset than an immediate economic driver due to technological, environmental, and political barriers requiring multibillion-dollar investments and international cooperation.
With Arctic ice melting and resource diplomacy escalating, the island could become the catalyst for a new Arctic Cold War, with priority shifting from oil to minerals for decarbonization. Prospects depend on the balance between Greenland’s independence, Denmark’s alliance commitments, and global sustainable development norms. A realistic scenario is a partnership with the West for phased extraction over the medium term, with the risk of escalation if Trump’s pressure becomes coercion.
Ultimately, Greenland illustrates the paradox of modern geoeconomics: resources hidden beneath the ice threaten to melt not only the climate but also established alliances, requiring global policymakers to take strategic foresight for the sake of collective security.
Source: rt.com
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://www.rt.com/news/632221-greenland-riches-trump-wants/
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Trump threatens to block bridge to Canada
10 Feb, 2026
US President Donald Trump has threatened to block the opening of a major new bridge linking Canada and the US unless Washington receives compensation and a partial ownership stake in the project.
In a lengthy post on his Truth Social platform on Monday, Trump said he would not allow the Gordie Howe International Bridge – connecting Windsor, Ontario, and Detroit, Michigan – to open until the US is “fully compensated” and Canada treats its neighbor with what he described as “fairness and respect.”
“With all that we have given them, we should own, perhaps, at least one half of this asset. The revenues generated because of the US market will be astronomical,” he wrote.
Trump accused Canada of benefiting disproportionately from the project, claiming it was built with “virtually no US content” and alleging that a waiver issued under former President Barack Obama allowed Canada to bypass ‘Buy American’ requirements. He also repeated longstanding grievances over Canadian dairy tariffs, provincial restrictions on US alcohol sales, and Ottawa’s recent outreach to China.
The new six-lane crossing is expected to open early this year following final testing and inspections, and will become one of the busiest trade links between the two countries. The bridge, which began construction in 2018, is projected to cost about $6.4 billion, up from an original estimate of $5.7 billion.
According to the Canadian government, the bridge has been fully funded by Ottawa but will be publicly owned by Canada and the state of Michigan. Windsor Mayor Drew Dilkens said parts of the US president’s post were “just insane,” insisting that US steel was used on the Michigan side of the project.
Trump endorsed the bridge during his first term, calling it a “vital economic link,” despite lobbying from the owners of the Ambassador Bridge, who have long opposed the project.
The new threat comes amid broader strains in US-Canada relations. In recent weeks, Trump has also warned of steep tariffs on Canadian-made aircraft and suggested punitive measures if Ottawa deepens trade ties with Beijing.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has rejected claims that Canada is pursuing a free-trade deal with China and has urged Washington to respect Canadian sovereignty.
Source: rt.com
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://www.rt.com/news/632233-trump-canada-bridge-threat/
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Africa
Experts Seek Formalised Will, Islamic Estate Transfer to Secure Family Wealth, Legacy
February 9, 2026
• Pantami, Aisha Babangida, Ummahani Amin, others warn against informal, verbal arrangements
James Emejo in Abuja
Legal, financial and religious experts have called on Nigerians to adopt structured Islamic estate planning frameworks to secure their wealth and legacies.
They warned that reliance on informal arrangements and verbal agreements exposes families to disputes, financial losses, and prolonged legal battles.
The advice was given at the 8th Annual Islamic Estate Planning Clinic with the theme, “From Informality to Legacy: Structuring Islamic Wealth Transfer” which was organised by The Metropolitan Law Firm in collaboration with First Trustees Limited and Al-Ameen Trustees Limited in Abuja, over the weekend.
The speakers emphasised the urgent need for documentation, professional advisory support, and the adoption of modern financial and legal tools to ensure responsible wealth transfer, particularly amid Nigeria’s evolving tax environment and the rise of digital assets.
According to them, structured Islamic estate planning remains essential not only for protecting wealth but also for promoting social stability, responsible governance, and intergenerational prosperity.
In his keynote, former minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Prof. Isa Ali Pantami, said wealth transfer should move from verbal arrangements to structured, documented, and Sharia-compliant systems.
He said, “The transition from informality to legacy means moving from cultural verbal agreements to formal, documented frameworks. Verbal agreements are unreliable and often lead to disputes.”
The former minister who is the Co-Chair, African Union’s 4th Industrial Revolution Policy Council, further advocated the use of modern technologies, including blockchain systems, to preserve wills and legal agreements securely, adding that structured wealth management was not only a legal necessity but also a religious responsibility rooted in Islamic teachings.
Pantami highlighted common challenges including cultural practices that conflict with Islamic inheritance principles, delayed will-writing, and inadequate documentation of property ownership across communities.
Also, Managing Partner of The Metropolitan Law Firm, Hajia Ummahani Amin, said many Nigerian families still relied on undocumented arrangements that often lead to disputes, mismanagement, and outcomes that contradict the intentions of wealth creators.
She said, “Estate planning allows individuals to organise their affairs before death and ensure their wishes are respected. Leaving assets in the hands of relatives or friends without proper documentation has caused serious problems for many families.”
Amin noted that while Islamic inheritance principles are clearly defined, individuals retain the right to allocate up to one-third of their estate through wills or trusts, urging Nigerians to incorporate structured tools such as trusts and endowments to protect beneficiaries and sustain legacies.
She noted that Nigeria is increasingly prepared for the realities of digitalisation and emerging tax reforms, that proactive planning would help individuals adapt to the changing financial environment.
Also, Chairperson of the Better Life Programme for the African Rural Woman (BLPARW), Dr. Hajiya Aisha Babangida, underscored the need for continuous education and awareness to help families understand available Islamic financial instruments.
She pointed out that tools such as waqf (endowment), trusts, and Sukuk bonds could support community development, education, and infrastructure if properly understood and utilised.
She said, “Education is key – people must understand the available instruments and how structured planning can help families build sustainable legacies while contributing to community growth.”
Similarly, Associate Director of First Trustees Ltd, Mr. Abimbola Ajinibi, identified cultural misconceptions as a major barrier to estate planning.
He said many Muslims mistakenly believe that Islamic inheritance rules eliminate the need for wills or structured planning.
He said, “In reality, up to one-third of an estate can be distributed through personal discretion. Failure to plan can lead to intestate estates and probate processes that may cost up to 10 per cent of the estate value.”
Ajinibi also noted that estate planning encompasses more than wills, including trusts, gifts, and powers of attorney designed to ensure seamless wealth transfer.
Speaking on financial governance, Rotimi Obende of First Trustees highlighted the implications of tax reforms effective January 1, 2026. He said trustees and estate administrators are now required to report income generated from estates and trusts.
According to him, “While inheritance transfers themselves remain largely unchanged, income earned from estate management must now be reported and taxed. Proper structures ensure that taxes are assessed on net income rather than gross income.”
On her part, Representative of Al-Ameen Trustees, Ms. Mutiat Olatunji, emphasised the role of regulated, faith-based trustees in providing Sharia-compliant estate planning and ethical financial governance.
She said professional trusteeship helps ensure transparency, regulatory compliance, and responsible management of wealth for both private beneficiaries and broader community development.
Source: thisdaylive.com/
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://www.thisdaylive.com/2026/02/09/experts-seek-formalised-will-islamic-estate-transfer-to-secure-family-wealth-legacy/
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Ethiopia-Eritrea tensions: Fears of armed confontation grow
February 9, 2026
A bitter war of words has escalated further after Ethiopia ordered neighbouring Eritrea to "immediately withdraw its troops" from Ethiopian territory, with the pair seemingly inching towards a new conflict.
Relations between the two Horn of Africa countries have long been fraught.
In recent months, Addis Ababa has accused Eritrea of supporting insurgents on Ethiopian soil -- allegations Asmara denies.
"Developments over the last few days indicate that the government of Eritrea has chosen the path of further escalation," Ethiopian Foreign Minister Gedion Timothewos told his Eritrean counterpart in a letter dated Saturday.
He demanded that Asmara "withdraw its troops from Ethiopian territory and cease all forms of collaboration with rebel groups".
The "incursion" along its northwestern borders and joint military operations there were "not just provocations but acts of outright aggression", he said.
Timothewos added, however, that he believed the "cycle of violence and mistrust" could still be broken through diplomacy.
"If we receive a positive response to our legitimate demand for respect for Ethiopia's sovereignty and territorial integrity" then Ethiopia will be "willing to engage in good-faith negotiations", he said.
The Eritrean government did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
Eritrea, one of the world's most closed countries, gained independence in 1993 after decades of armed struggle against Ethiopia.
They later fought a 1998-2000 border war in which tens of thousands died.
Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed initially sought rapprochement with Eritrea when he came to power, earning him the Nobel Peace Prize in 2019.
The two governments cooperated against rebels from Ethiopia's Tigray region during the 2020-2022 conflict but fell out over the peace accord, from which Eritrea was excluded.
The Tigray civil war killed at least 600,000 people and the resulting peace deal, known as the Pretoria Agreement, has never fully resolved the tensions.
Ethiopian authorities say Eritrea is "actively preparing for war" and funding armed groups fighting federal forces.
Eritrea meanwhile accuses Ethiopia of seeking to seize its port at Assab as part of the landlocked country's efforts to gain sea access.
Source: africanews.com
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://www.africanews.com/2026/02/09/ethiopia-eritrea-tensions-fears-of-armed-confontation-grow/
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Customs Reopens Kamba, Tsamiya Borders After Security Talks
February 10, 2026
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) Area Command in Kebbi State has reopened the Kamba and Tsamiya border routes in Dandi and Bagudo Local Government Areas to facilitate cross-border trade with the Republics of Benin and Niger.
Naija News recalls that the borders were earlier shut following rising insecurity along the frontier communities.
The reopening, which took effect on Monday, February 9, followed a series of diplomatic engagements and agreements between Nigeria and the Republic of Benin aimed at restoring legitimate trading activities and strengthening cooperation.
Speaking during the exercise, the Customs Area Comptroller in Kebbi State, Mahmud Matawalle Ibrahim, said the decision was taken with presidential approval to allow the smooth movement of lawful goods across the borders.
He noted that the arrangement would enable the movement of legitimate consignments from the Tsamiya border to the Niger Republic through the Kamba route.
Ibrahim said, “The borders were opened on the approval of the President to allow for the movement of legitimate goods from the Tsamiya border to the Niger Republic through the Kamba border in Kebbi State.”
He added that the reopening had already led to the clearance of several trucks that had been stranded due to the earlier closure.
According to him, many of the trucks from the Benin Republic were officially processed at the Tsamiya border and allowed to proceed to the Niger Republic’s Tunga Jado border via Kamba.
The comptroller expressed optimism that the development would revitalise economic activities in the border communities and strengthen regional trade ties.
He also emphasised that security considerations remained a priority, stressing that authorities on both sides were committed to upholding the agreements reached and ensuring safe, seamless trading operations.
“The reopening of the borders will facilitate and boost trading activities between the countries, and also enhance security as we are committed to keeping the agreements and ensuring the smooth operation of trading activities at the borders,” Ibrahim said.
Source: naijanews.com
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Electoral Act: “Our Demands Are Clear And Non-negotiable” – Peter Obi Speaks After Protest
February 10, 2026
Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has reiterated the call for the National Assembly to make clear and urgent electoral reforms ahead of the 2027 elections.
Obi, in a statement on Tuesday released via his 𝕏 account, said the reforms must reflect the will of the Nigerian people and demonstrate electoral integrity.
According to him, he joined the peaceful protest on Monday to identify with the people in demanding electoral integrity.
He added that aspirants for public office must provide verifiable records of their primary, secondary, and tertiary education, along with fulfilling other constitutional requirements such as age and qualifications.
The former Anambra State Governor also insisted that part of the electoral reforms must mandate the transmission of election results electronically and in real time to protect the people’s mandate and eliminate manipulation.
Taking a swipe at a recent statement credited to the President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, about the likely challenges electronic transmission of results may face, Obi insisted that claims that certain states lack network coverage are no longer acceptable.
He called on the youths to remain steadfast in their call for electoral reforms, maintaining that a new and better Nigeria is possible.
The full statement, as made available to Naija News, reads: “Yesterday, February 9th, I participated in a peaceful protest at the National Assembly to demand urgent electoral reforms that truly reflect the will of the Nigerian people.
“Our demands were clear and non-negotiable: anyone seeking to hold titles such as Honourable, Distinguished, or Excellency must emerge through a transparent and honourable process. Aspirants for public office should provide verifiable records of their primary, secondary, and tertiary education, along with fulfilling other constitutional requirements such as age and qualifications. No one should aspire to lead without having gone through due process.
“Beyond eligibility, candidates must engage in open campaigns, public scrutiny, and debates as mandated by law. Most importantly, election results must be transmitted electronically and in real time to protect the people’s mandate and eliminate manipulation.
“Claims that certain states lack network coverage are no longer acceptable. Financial institutions operate nationwide through secure digital networks to conduct transactions and collect taxes on a daily basis. If banking systems function seamlessly, our electoral system can and should do the same.
“Nigeria must stop being a so-called Giant of Africa that disgraces the continent and instead become a beacon of exemplary governance, beginning with credible elections.
“We owe the younger generation a nation built on order, justice, and trust—not one mired in chaos and impunity. As the agitation continues, I urge our youth, who turned out in large numbers, to remain steadfast and not relent until the necessary reforms are achieved.
“I remain firmly committed to the vision of a New Nigeria—one that is not only possible, but inevitable if we stand and act together.”
Source: naijanews.com
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https://www.naijanews.com/2026/02/10/electoral-act-our-demands-are-clear-and-non-negotiable-peter-obi-speaks-after-protest/
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Details Of Meeting Between President Tinubu And US Military Officials Emerge
February 10, 2026
The Defence Headquarters has disclosed that Nigeria and the United States Armed Forces have reviewed existing security cooperation and identified new areas of collaboration, including joint military exercises, training, intelligence sharing and advanced technological support.
Naija News reports that the development followed a high-level visit to Abuja by the Commander of the United States Africa Command (AFRICOM), Gen. Michael Anderson, on February 8–9.
In a statement issued by the Director of Defence Information, Maj. Gen. Samaila Uba, the military said the visit marked a significant step in strengthening bilateral defence ties between both nations.
According to the statement, Gen. Anderson was received by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, alongside top Nigerian security officials.
Those present at the engagements included the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu; the Minister of Defence; the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Olufemi Oluyede; the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Waidi Shaibu; and other senior officers.
Maj. Gen. Uba said the discussions centred on shared security interests and ongoing efforts to counter terrorist organisations threatening Nigeria, the United States and the wider region.
“The leaders also discussed military training and laid the groundwork for future force development, real-world training and joint exercises, as well as other unique capabilities that the US can provide,” the statement read.
The Defence Headquarters noted that the talks also explored opportunities for enhanced capacity building through specialised training and technology transfer.
According to Uba, both sides reviewed existing cooperation and identified future collaboration pathways aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s security architecture.
He added that engagements also focused on developing Nigeria’s independent operational capabilities through sustained intelligence-sharing and technical advisory support.
As part of his visit, Gen. Anderson toured the joint US–Nigeria intelligence fusion cell in Abuja.
The fusion cell, according to the Defence Headquarters, supports Nigeria’s intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance operations.
“Gen. Anderson visited the joint US–Nigeria intelligence fusion cell, which bolsters Nigeria’s intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities and continues to build enduring capacity to enable real-time operational results,” Uba said.
He added that the AFRICOM commander interacted with senior Nigerian security officials and reaffirmed the United States’ commitment to enabling Nigerian-led solutions to security challenges.
The renewed engagements come amid growing security concerns in parts of the country, including insurgency, banditry and transnational terrorism.
Prior to the visit, AFRICOM had disclosed that the United States deployed a small contingent of forces to Nigeria as part of ongoing cooperation efforts.
The Defence Headquarters described the visit as part of broader, ongoing efforts by both nations to deepen defence cooperation and address shared security challenges.
Source: naijanews.com
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https://www.naijanews.com/2026/02/10/details-of-meeting-between-president-tinubu-and-us-military-officials-emerge/
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NAHCON Chairman, Sheikh Pakistan, Resigns
February 10, 2026
The Executive Chairman of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), Sheikh Abdullahi Pakistan has resigned from his position.
According to Western Post, the NAHCON boss resigned late on Monday night.
It would be recalled that Sheikh Pakistan was appointed in 2024 replacing Malam Jalal Ahmad Arabi.
Pakistan’s Monday resignation was the climax of issues trailing his watch over NAHCON including incompetence, maladministration and alleged corrupt practices.
The former NAHCON boss was criticised over his shoddy handling of this year’s hajj that may lead to the inability of many would-be pilgrims to perform the yearly pilgrimage.
One NAHCON source who pleaded not to be mentioned said: “Saudi authorities had earlier given Monday, February 9 as the last day for the capturing of the pilgrims’ papers.
“But by that date most pilgrims, medical and operational staff, among others, were yet to be captured as Chairman Pakistan continued to delay the finalization of the process.”
Source: naijanews.com
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https://www.naijanews.com/2026/02/10/just-in-nahcon-chairman-sheikh-pakistan-resigns/
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‘I Was Never Tinubu’s Friend’ – El-Rufai Clarifies Reason For Fall Out With President
February 10, 2026
Former Governor of Kaduna State, Nasir El-Rufai, has explained that his differences with President Bola Tinubu stem from a philosophical difference in governance.
Naija News reports that El-Rufai, in an interview with Trust TV, said he and Tinubu never had a close personal relationship, stressing that his initial support for the President was driven by principle rather than personal affinity.
El-Rufai, a former Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), emphasised that the disagreement with Tinubu was never personal.
He also noted that even if he had accepted Tinubu’s ministerial position, he would have left the government because of those fundamental philosophical differences.
He said, “I was never Tinubu’s friend. We never had a personal relationship like the one I had with General Buhari.
“I was approached by certain Islamic stakeholders from the southwest to support the emergence of a southwest Muslim presidential candidate.
“That is how the discussions started. As governor of Kaduna and one of the founders of APC, I knew there was an understanding that after 8 years of Buhari, power would return to the south. It wasn’t about Tinubu; he was merely an accidental beneficiary.
“We didn’t fall out; we didn’t find areas of agreement. I am in government to serve the public and deliver results not to enrich myself or appoint cronies.
“The philosophy of this government is contrary to everything I’ve been taught as a Muslim, a northerner, and a Nigerian. They came to govern the cake, to enrich themselves. We are different people parallel lines that will never meet.”
El-Rufai also stated that his commitment to party unity after Tinubu won the All Progressives Congress (APC) primaries was based on his principles.
He stressed, “It is a principle of mine to fight for the candidate of my party in every election, whether I like the candidate or not.
“The fact that he emerged as the party’s candidate meant I would give everything to ensure he won.”
Source: naijanews.com
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https://www.naijanews.com/2026/02/10/i-was-never-tinubus-friend-el-rufai-clarifies-reason-for-fall-out-with-president/
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DSS Takes Over Obaseki Abduction Probe, Lawyers Call It Terrorism
February 9, 2026
The Department of State Services (DSS) has formally taken over the investigation into the violent attack and abduction of Dr Pedro Obaseki in Benin City, Edo State, following formal petitions by his legal team that classify the incident as terrorism‑related.
The development was confirmed via a detailed state‑of‑the‑case press statement issued by Obaseki’s lead counsel, Femi Falana, SAN, who disclosed that the DSS headquarters in Abuja has assumed full conduct of the probe in recognition of the nature, gravity and implications of the alleged crimes.
Obaseki was reportedly attacked, dehumanised, brutally assaulted and unlawfully abducted on December 28, 2025, in what his lawyers describe as a coordinated terroristic operation.
The incident, which ignited widespread outrage on social media and among civil society groups, has since evolved into a case with serious national and international human‑rights implications.
Falana stated, “It is important to place on record that the DSS has now formally assumed conduct of the investigation into this matter.
“Notably, and commendably, the Service has acceded to treating the complaint as terrorism‑related, in recognition of the nature, gravity and implications of the acts complained of.”
Multiple Petitions Allege Conspiracy, Unlawful Detention
According to the statement, multiple petitions were submitted to various security agencies and oversight bodies, alleging terrorism‑related conduct, conspiracy, assault, unlawful detention and obstruction of justice arising from the December 28 incident and subsequent events.
Falana said Obaseki has welcomed the intervention of the DSS and is cooperating fully with all lawful investigative processes.
“Any concerns arising from those interactions, including issues relating to conduct, handling and procedural integrity, have been formally documented and are now part of the consolidated representations before the appropriate authorities,” the senior advocate added.
Beyond security investigations, Obaseki’s legal team has commenced civil proceedings in Nigerian courts to secure judicial remedies and enforce institutional accountability.
Falana stressed that the lawsuits are designed to complement, not prejudice, ongoing security investigations.
“These proceedings are intended to complement, not prejudice, ongoing investigations by security agencies,” the statement said.
The matter has also assumed an international dimension, as petitions and formal communications have been submitted to regional and global human‑rights mechanisms.
According to Falana, filings have been made with the ECOWAS Court of Justice, European Union human‑rights bodies and the United Nations Special Rapporteur on torture, arbitrary detention and abuse of power.
He said, “The cross‑cutting human‑rights dimensions of this incident necessitated engagement with relevant international and regional mechanisms. These steps were taken to ensure adherence to Nigeria’s international obligations.”
The legal team has also placed social media and digital platforms on notice over the circulation of live and recorded footage linked to Obaseki’s dehumanisation, brutalisation and abduction.
Falana said the notices aim to ensure responsible platform conduct, content governance and cooperation with lawful accountability processes.
In his personal statement, Obaseki emphasised that all actions taken, domestically, regionally and internationally, are rooted in the pursuit of justice, the rule of law and public accountability.
He dismissed suggestions that the case was politically motivated or sensationalised.
“Dr. Obaseki respectfully calls on relevant authorities, civil‑society actors, professional bodies and members of the public to support lawful processes that will ensure that all criminal perpetrators, collaborators and enablers are identified and held to account,” the statement read.
Falana added that the press statement was issued in the public interest and would be updated as investigations and legal proceedings progress.
Source: naijanews.com
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https://www.naijanews.com/2026/02/09/dss-takes-over-obaseki-abduction-probe-lawyers-call-it-terrorism/
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Southeast Asia
Selangor maintains flexible hours for civil servants during Ramadan
10 Feb 2026
Selangor has not set specific Ramadan work hour changes for civil servants, with existing flexible arrangements to continue based on operational needs.
BESTARI JAYA: The Selangor state government has not implemented any specific changes to operating hours for civil servants during the upcoming Ramadan period.
Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari said existing flexible working arrangements would continue based on current needs and circumstances.
He stated that any further decision on potential changes would be discussed with state secretary Datuk Dr Ahmad Fadzli Ahmad Tajuddin.
“Any decision on specific changes will be made later as arrangements for civil servants fall under the state secretary’s jurisdiction,” Amirudin told a press conference.
He added that the government would organise the arrangements “as best as possible”.
The matter requires careful consideration as some departments must operate continuously and cannot be granted flexible hours.
This is due to the critical services they provide to the public, the Menteri Besar explained.
He cited the Selangor Water Management Authority (LUAS) as an example, which must ensure sufficient raw water supply.
Amirudin noted that any disruption to such services would have a major impact on the public.
He was speaking after officiating the groundbreaking ceremony of the Bestari Large-Scale Solar Project.
Source: thesun.my
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https://thesun.my/news/malaysia-news/selangor-maintains-flexible-hours-for-civil-servants-during-ramadan/
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Foreign minister: Malaysia, India committed to stronger ties across trade, tech and regional security
10 Feb 2026
KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 10 — Bilateral relations between Malaysia and India continue to be strengthened through expanded strategic cooperation across trade, high technology, tourism, cybersecurity and regional security.
Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan said the recent official visit of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Malaysia reflects both nations’ commitment to deepening ties, following the elevation of relations to Comprehensive Strategic Partner status in 2024.
“Trading with India benefits Malaysia, as India imports a large volume of goods from us, mainly palm oil, electrical and electronic products, and semiconductors.
“We also import semiconductors and industrial goods from India. This forms a strong foundation for Malaysia-India relations,” he said during question time in the Dewan Rakyat today.
He was responding to a question from Lim Guan Eng (PH-Bagan) on trade outcomes and regional security following the Indian PM’s visit, as well as potential joint measures the countries could take regarding US tariff policies and efforts to restore democracy and peace in Myanmar.
Touching on security matters, Mohamad noted that Malaysia and India operate the same type of fighter aircraft, the Sukhoi, creating opportunities for cooperation in maintenance, repair and overhaul.
He added that initiatives are underway to coordinate and streamline essential facilities for tourists traveling between the two countries, with 1.56 million Indian visitors arriving in Malaysia last year.
Mohamad also highlighted that both nations have expressed a shared commitment to restoring political stability and peace in Myanmar.
He pointed out that India shares a land border of over 1,640 km with Myanmar, while Malaysia has been impacted by the arrival of more than 200,000 Rohingya refugees across the country, including in Langkawi. — Bernama
Source: malaymail.com
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https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2026/02/10/foreign-minister-malaysia-india-committed-to-stronger-ties-across-trade-tech-and-regional-security/208711
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Malaysia Airlines, Firefly gear up for Ramadan and Hari Raya with over 2,700 flights and fixed fares
10 Feb 2026
KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 10 — Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG) will operate more than 2,700 domestic flights through Malaysia Airlines and Firefly during the upcoming Ramadan and Hari Raya Aidilfitri peak travel period.
Malaysia Airlines will operate up to 1,557 flights, with Firefly adding 1,176 services connecting key destinations across Peninsular and East Malaysia, the airline group said in a media release.
To meet strong demand, Malaysia Airlines will upgrade aircraft on busy routes including Alor Setar, Kota Bharu, Terengganu, Miri, Sibu, Kuching, Tawau, Sandakan, and Kota Kinabalu. Red-eye flights to Kota Kinabalu, Sandakan, and Kuching will also be offered.
Both airlines are offering fixed all-in one-way fares for selected East Malaysia routes, excluding government taxes and fees.
Malaysia Airlines fares start from RM339 to Sarawak and RM399 to Sabah, while Firefly fares start from RM298 to Sarawak and RM348 to Sabah.
Tickets can be booked until March 29, 2026, for travel from March 17 to March 29 via the airlines’ official websites and mobile apps.
In line with the government’s festive travel initiative, fare caps will also apply on selected East Malaysia routes, with Malaysia Airlines charging up to RM569 and Firefly up to RM548 one-way, excluding government taxes and fees, for travel between March 17 and March 20.
MAG said the expanded flight schedule aims to help Malaysians reunite with their families and make the most of the festive season.
For bookings and more information, visit www.malaysiaairlines.com or www.fireflyz.com.
Source: malaymail.com
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https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2026/02/10/malaysia-airlines-firefly-gear-up-for-ramadan-and-hari-raya-with-over-2700-flights-and-fixed-fares/208692
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Indonesia to use D-8 chairmanship to bolster Muslim economies
February 9, 2026
Jakarta (ANTARA) - Indonesia will use its 2026 chairmanship of the Developing Eight (D-8) group to strengthen Muslim-majority economies and help shield them from global volatility, Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister Arrmanatha Nasir said on Monday.
He said preparations for the April 15 D-8 Summit in Jakarta were nearing completion, with Indonesia encouraging heads of state to attend in person. Several leaders have given positive signals ahead of formal confirmations.
"Through D-8, we want to reinforce the economic role of Muslim-majority countries so they can better weather an unstable global economic environment," Arrmanatha told reporters in Jakarta.
He added that invitations were sent earlier this month, with official responses expected in the coming weeks. Informal indications from multiple leaders suggest strong participation.
Alongside the leaders' summit, Indonesia will host a ministerial meeting and a special session on Palestine involving D-8 members and five additional countries from the Organization of Islamic Cooperation.
Established in 1997, D-8 is a development cooperation group of emerging economies comprising Bangladesh, Egypt, Indonesia, Iran, Malaysia, Nigeria, Pakistan, and Turkey. Azerbaijan became the group's ninth member in 2025.
Source: antaranews.com
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https://en.antaranews.com/news/403690/indonesia-to-use-d-8-chairmanship-to-bolster-muslim-economies
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Malaysia negotiating terms of US tariff MoU
10 Feb 2026
Foreign Minister Mohamad Hasan says Malaysia is negotiating the terms of a tariff MoU with the US, with talks led by the investment ministry.
KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia is currently negotiating the specific terms of a memorandum of understanding related to United States tariffs.
Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan said the negotiations are being conducted by the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry.
“We signed the MoU, but we have not negotiated the specific terms. Once the terms have been harmonised, we will ratify the agreement,” he told the Dewan Rakyat.
He was responding to a question on Malaysia’s steps following the US implementation of tariffs.
Mohamad stated that Malaysia will negotiate directly with the US, as certain matters require detailed analysis.
In a separate reply, he discussed US interest in forming a global bloc for critical minerals.
He noted the US has identified over 60 minerals as critical and has fallen behind another country technologically.
“The US has suddenly realised that they need critical minerals for the latest technology, so they want to form an alliance, create stockpiles of critical minerals, and they have proposed this to us,” he said.
Mohamad said Malaysia has taken note of the proposal but emphasised minerals fall under state authority.
He added that Malaysia no longer permits the export of raw minerals, insisting on domestic processing to add value.
Source: thesun.my
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https://thesun.my/news/malaysia-news/malaysia-negotiating-terms-of-us-tariff-mou/
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‘Second chance’ law to let reformed offenders deactivate old records and rebuild their lives, says Saifuddin Nasution
By Soo Wern Jun
10 Feb 2026
KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 10 — The Home Ministry is in the process of amending the Registration of Criminals and Undesirable Persons Act 1969 to introduce a “second chance” mechanism.
Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail said this will include a system to deactivate certain criminal records after a crime-free period.
“The Home Ministry is currently in the process of amending the Registration of Criminals and Undesirable Persons Act 1969, or Act 7, which is the legal basis for registering individuals convicted of offences in the criminal registry.
“The proposal had been presented to the Cabinet, which agreed on May 21, 2025, to allow the Home Ministry to begin efforts to amend the Act,” he told Parliament during the Minister’s Question Time today.
Explaining further, Saifuddin said a key component of the amendment is the introduction of a “spent” mechanism — or deactivation system —which would allow certain individuals to have their criminal records treated as inactive after a specified period without repeating offences.
Under the proposed mechanism, he said individuals who have been convicted, exhausted all appeal processes, served their prison sentence or settled fines or compounds, and remain free from further criminal offences within a set timeframe may be considered as having a “spent” record.
“This means after they have completed their sentence and remain crime-free within the period we set — what we call a crime-free period — they may be regarded as having no record, unless it involves serious offences,” he said.
He said the “spent” mechanism is not intended to erase criminal history entirely, but to allow former offenders who demonstrate rehabilitation and compliance with the law to move forward without their past record continuously affecting employment, social reintegration and livelihood opportunities.
Saifuddin said serious crimes would likely remain excluded from the mechanism, while eligibility would depend on offence type, risk level and the individual’s conduct after completing their sentence.
He added that the amendment would formalise a structured legal pathway for rehabilitation, rather than relying solely on discretionary or administrative approaches.
“The proposal takes into account international good practices, including systems in the United Kingdom, Singapore, Brunei and Australia, which allow certain criminal records to be excluded after a crime-free period subject to conditions.
“The proposal is currently being reviewed by the Attorney General’s Chambers and is expected to be tabled in Parliament this year,” he said.
Responding to a supplementary question regarding employers hiring former prisoners and societal stigma, Saifuddin said to date, there are about 2.63 million criminal records have been maintained since 1969.
“When we profile this number, the largest group involves convictions under the Dangerous Drugs Act, particularly Section 15 involving drug consumption and Section 12 involving minor possession, followed by offences under Section 39A and others,” he said.
He said these categories make up almost half of the total and could be considered for the second chance mechanism if individuals do not repeat offences.
On addressing stigma, Saifuddin said the government is able to facilitate legal reforms to offer second chances, but he said the society also plays a role in changing perceptions and providing opportunities to former prisoners.
“Existing prison initiatives already reflect the second chance approach, including programmes allowing inmates convicted of minor offences to serve part of their sentence outside prison walls while undergoing skills training and employment placement.
“Malaysia currently has six such external placement facilities, including one in Pantai Merdeka that houses about 250 inmates.
“For every 800 inmates released under this initiative, only one decided to go back to old ways. This is a success story,” he said.
Saifuddin said acceptance among society and employers varies, and continuous efforts are needed to improve public perception.
On collaboration between the Prisons Department and entrepreneurship-related agencies, Saifuddin said Malaysia currently has 41 prisons housing about 87,000 inmates, of whom about 29,000 are remand detainees, while the rest are convicted prisoners who are eligible for training programmes.
Ongoing programmes include TVET training, textile weaving training such as at Marang Prison, carpentry and furniture-making using timber supplied by the Forestry Department, as well as bakery and food preparation training, particularly during Ramadan.
According to Saifuddin, prison-run food sales during Ramadan last year exceeded RM1 million.
“The inmates are also supported after release through transitional housing if families or communities are not ready to accept them back.
“We continue supporting them until their family and society have accepted them, this is beyond the normal scope of prison responsibilities,” he said.
Source: malaymail.com
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https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2026/02/10/second-chance-law-to-let-reformed-offenders-deactivate-old-records-and-rebuild-their-lives-says-saifuddin-nasution/208728
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Sultan Sharafuddin says no to pig farming in Selangor, urges pork imports to meet demand
10 Feb 2026
KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 10 — Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah has made it clear that he does not consent to pig farming being carried out in any district of Selangor, citing environmental concerns, limited land resources, and the need to protect public well-being.
The Selangor Royal Office issued a statement today in response to remarks by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim regarding a large-scale pig farming project in Bukit Tagar, Hulu Selangor.
The sultan welcomed the prime minister’s position that pig farms should not be located near residential areas or places that could provoke controversy.
“Pig farming can cause air pollution through foul odours and contaminate rivers and water catchment areas due to the discharge of waste,” the statement said.
It noted that Bukit Tagar, a residential area for Malays and Felda settlers, would likely face opposition from locals, while nearby rivers supply clean water to residents in Selangor, Kuala Lumpur, and Putrajaya.
The statement added that while modern farming methods can mitigate pollution, the high costs involved make it unfeasible for operators supplying pork only within Selangor.
There is also no guarantee that water contamination could be entirely prevented.
Sultan Sharafuddin stressed that the state’s limited land, coupled with high property values, makes both large- and small-scale pig farming unsuitable.
He suggested that the government issue licences for pork imports to meet the needs of non-Muslims, particularly the Chinese community, while allowing Selangor land to be used for more productive purposes such as housing and development.
“The pig farming issue must be brought to an end as it causes anxiety among all parties and affects the peace and harmony of the community. All parties are urged to respect the sultan’s decree and preserve unity and harmony in the state,” the statement said.
Source: malaymail.com
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https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2026/02/10/sultan-sharafuddin-says-no-to-pig-farming-in-selangor-urges-pork-imports-to-meet-demand/208707
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Arab World
Prince William’s visit signals ‘importance of relationship with Saudi Arabia to UK,’ ex-envoy tells Arab News
CASPAR WEBB
February 09, 2026
LONDON: Prince William’s three-day visit to Saudi Arabia this week reflects deep British interest in the “expectation of an important future” with the Kingdom, a former ambassador told Arab News on Monday.
Ties between the two royal families are “almost 100 years old, and it’s the kind of relationship that runs at a sort of deeper and longer wavelength than the day-to-day politics,” said Simon Collis, ambassador to Saudi Arabia from 2015 to 2020.
“Prince William’s grandmother, the late Queen Elizabeth, visited Saudi Arabia and hosted several of the kings of Saudi Arabia on their state visits to the UK.
“King Charles, as prince of Wales, visited Saudi Arabia many times — over a dozen times — and actually his last visit came shortly after I arrived in Riyadh as ambassador.
“When Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman visited London in 2018, he had lunch with the queen, the late queen, and dinner, and that was at Buckingham Palace. He had dinner at Clarence House with Charles as prince of Wales, and William was there at that dinner.”
Similarities between the two heirs apparent on a personal level could also spur deeper diplomatic ties, Collis said.
“They have a lot in common: environmental interests, green energy interests, a lot of the things that have expanded in Saudi Arabia over the last 10 years in particular … as the economic transformation has moved forward under Vision 2030,” he added.
“So, areas like the core (interests), which were always there — these issues like defense, security, and energy — but what has opened up as a result of the changes in Saudi Arabia much more are other areas like education, culture, healthcare, environmental issues, heritage, sports ... all of these kind of soft power issues.”
Since King Salman assumed the throne in 2015, more than a dozen UK prime ministers and foreign secretaries have come and gone, Collis said, highlighting the “continuity” that William’s royal status can bring to the bilateral relationship.
“Links between the royal families are something special, and the fact that the prince of Wales is now visiting at the request of the British government clearly sends a signal of the importance of the relationship with Saudi Arabia to the UK,” he added.
Through a little-known government body, the Royal Visits Committee, William will have been briefed on the nature of the British-Saudi relationship, and how he can use his royal leverage to develop ties with a “priority” partner, Collis said.
“All official visits by members of the British royal family involve advice from the government about the priorities.”
The RVC meets and brings together No. 10, the Foreign Office and other relevant government departments with the staff at Buckingham Palace and the other royal households.
“They review together the countries that have been visited recently, both inward and outward visits: What are the countries that are a priority for a visit? Prince William hasn’t made a lot of these visits yet … King Charles was taking the lead on that for a long time,” Collis said.
“It’s not surprising that Saudi Arabia was seen as a priority for an early visit by Prince William as prince of Wales,” he added.
“The decision to prioritize the Kingdom for a visit reflects the overall bilateral importance to each other, the regional significance of Saudi Arabia and its position as a global player, increasingly so as Vision 2030 moves forward and as the country opens up,” Collis said.
“Saudi Arabia is the most significant Arab country, the most significant regional country, but it’s also a global power; it’s one of what people call the middle powers.
“Its views — not just on regional issues but on the global agenda, climate change, security, all of these global issues — matter.”
The pace of change in Saudi Arabia is so fast that Western observers are still playing catch-up, Collis said.
The direction of travel between the two countries means that although differences in traditions may exist, “values have certainly become closer than they were historically,” he added.
“When I arrived here (in 2015), there were religious police still on the streets, music in public places was banned and women were under the guardianship system ... The Western headline was always ‘they can’t drive.’ Women couldn’t travel, they couldn’t get a job, they couldn’t even access healthcare without the approval of a male guardian.
“Under the leadership of King Salman and of the crown prince, all of that has changed; it’s been completely transformed.”
The individual and personal nature of the visit presents an opportunity to help the two peoples develop their mutual interests, Collis said, highlighting the popularity of the UK as a destination for Saudi university students.
“You (also) see that in the growing number of British companies entering Riyadh, putting their regional headquarters in Riyadh,” he added.
“You can see that movement happening in so many ways across so many sectors. I think this visit is an opportunity to recognize, celebrate and draw attention to all of that.”
Source: arabnews.com
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Air force partnerships are stabilizing force in region, US army lieutenant says
TAMARA ABOALSAUD
February 09, 2026
RIYADH: Saudi Arabia and the US have long enjoyed a strong military relationship, one that continues to grow even as regional and global tensions increase.
US Army Lt. Gen. Derek France, commander of the Ninth Air Force, spoke to Arab News on the sidelines of the World Defense Show in Riyadh about the two nations’ history and future.
“The purpose of being here today is to support our friends in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia,” he said.
During his visit, the lieutenant met Commander of the Royal Saudi Air Force Lt. Gen. Turki bin Bandar, to discuss the scope of cooperation between the two air forces.
“A great example is the Spears of Victory exercise, where US F-16s and American airmen participated alongside the Royal Saudi Air Force,” France said.
Spears of Victory was a large-scale, multinational air exercise hosted by Saudi Arabia at the King Abdulaziz Air Base in Dhahran from Jan. 18 to Feb. 7.
The exercise, widely regarded as one of the most comprehensive air drills in the Middle East, brought together the RSAF and regional and international partners, including the US, to enhance combat readiness and interoperability.
Beyond providing a platform for strengthening military partnerships and reinforcing collective deterrence and regional stability, Spears of Victory had participating forces conducting complex joint operations, advanced mission planning, and integrated airpower scenarios designed to reflect modern, multi-domain warfare.
“It was a fantastic success and a strong demonstration of partnership,” France said.
According to the commander, the US military’s role in the region is built on partnerships, citing a history of “airmen working with airmen.”
“There is a common language in airpower that transcends cultures and border.”
That cooperation, he said, dates back to Operation Desert Storm through the fight against the Islamic State (Daesh), and beyond.
Operation Desert Storm was the combat phase of the US-led international coalition’s response to Iraq’s invasion of Kuwait in 1990-1991.
Following months of military buildup and diplomacy, the operation combined a sustained air campaign with a brief but decisive ground offensive that liberated Kuwait and significantly degraded Iraq’s military capabilities.
Saudi Arabia played a central role as a host nation and key partner, providing basing, logistical support and regional coordination for coalition forces; laying the foundation for long-standing US-Saudi defense cooperation and a defining moment for modern warfare.
“When air forces are interoperable, understand one another, and train together, it becomes a deterrent and contributes to stability in the region against those who seek to destabilize it.”
The US Embassy Chargee d’Affaires Alison Dilworth in a statement to Arab News added that “the United States is committed to supporting the defense of Saudi Arabia as well as regional security and stability.
“As President Trump said when he designated Saudi Arabia as a major non-NATO ally, ‘A stronger and more capable alliance will advance the interests of both countries, and it will serve the highest interests of peace.’”
The main priority in the US-Saudi military partnership over the next few years is robust integration, France explained.
That includes technical integration through common communications, shared platforms where possible, and strong training and exercise programs to test and improve interoperability.
“There is also a crucial human element. When US and Saudi forces operate side by side, it creates opportunities to learn from each other and understand each other’s cultures.”
France added that many US airmen arrived with preconceived notions of the Middle East that were almost immediately challenged.
However, the US is no stranger to criticism for its military operations worldwide, with recent concern raised over President Trump’s ambitions in Iran, Greenland and Gaza.
Responding to that criticism, France said that a strong military-to-military relationship helped to stabilize regions, often enduring longer than political cycles, and could remain steady even when diplomacy came under pressure.
“I’ve seen this not just here, but elsewhere. These relationships often underpin stability even when political relationships become strained.”
He recalled the time when he flew with the Saudi Air Force in Dhahran in 2004-2005 and formed personal relationships that still exist today.
“One of the general officers who now runs their (Air) Warfare Center is a close friend.
“Those relationships can resurface years later and become enduring bonds between nations, helping sustain broader cooperation even during political challenges.”
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Saudi Arabia, Estonia strengthen cyber defence cooperation
GHADI JOUDAH
February 09, 2026
RIYADH: Estonia aims to deepen defense, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence cooperation with Saudi Arabia as both nations look to advance technology‑driven defense and cybersecurity capabilities.
Hanno Pevkur, Estonia’s minister of defense, told Arab News at the World Defense Show in Riyadh on Monday that Estonia’s defense industry is eager to contribute to the Kingdom’s fast‑growing defense ecosystem.
“In the modern world, cooperation built on trust and technology is the best defense,” he said. “It is important for us to be here because we clearly see there is a possibility to increase cooperation, not only bilaterally between Saudi Arabia and Estonia, but across the region.”
At Estonia’s pavilion, a cooperation agreement was signed between an Estonian company and a Saudi firm during the show, he noted.
Pevkur also said Estonia’s defense sector has expanded rapidly in recent years, driven by technological innovation and partnership.
“Our defense industry is growing very rapidly, and we continue to see strong momentum,” he said.
He said Estonia’s strengths lie in digital and smart‑system integration rather than large‑scale weapons production.
“We will not build airplanes or tanks, but what we can do is integrate robotics, automation and drones to make existing systems smarter,” he said.
The minister said effective defense collaboration must link businesses and governments to achieve meaningful results.
“When we want to have real cooperation, we need it on all levels,” he said. “The biggest client for any defense company is the government, so we must treat this as one ecosystem where the public and private sectors work hand in hand.”
Renowned for its leadership in digital governance, Estonia sees cybersecurity as central to its partnership potential with Saudi Arabia, building on years of regional engagement through its technology firms.
Pevkur said several Estonian companies, including Nortal, have already assisted Gulf governments in developing open IT and digital‑service systems.
“As the most digitalized nation in the world, almost every service in Estonia can be done online, except getting married,” he said. “But with such digitalization, we also need strong cyberdefense.”
He said data protection and digital resilience are treated as matters of national sovereignty in Tallinn, the capital of Estonia.
“Data is what we own. When someone steals that data, it becomes a serious threat,” he added. “That is why cyberdefense is not just about technology, it is about trust, sovereignty and protection.”
Pevkur said Saudi Arabia’s advances in AI offer promising opportunities for collaboration.
“I know that Saudi Arabia is doing great work when it comes to AI,” he said. “For us, as a small country with limited human resources, AI is essential not just for defense but for everyday life.”
Pevkur added that Estonia has launched a national AI strategy to promote responsible development and closer coordination between government and industry. One Estonian company, he said, has developed a system that allows a single operator to control hundreds of drones through AI.
“It is quite easy to put a weapon into the hands of a robot, but we also need to define who is accountable for its actions,” he said.
“The big question for the future is whether we can allow a war to be fought entirely by AI, or if humans must always make the final ethical decisions.”
He said in his conclusion that governments must reach a common understanding on how AI will be used and regulated on the battlefield.
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Makkah festival boosts culture, local economy
February 09, 2026
MAKKAH: The Makkah Winter Festival is leveraging seasonal events to enhance quality of life, energize the urban scene, and support local economic growth through integrated cultural, entertainment, and social programs.
Running for four months, from mid-December 2025 to the end of April 2026, the festival reflects a shift toward sustainable events, delivering lasting social and economic benefits beyond short-term seasons.
The festival features more than 25 diverse events and programs for residents, visitors, and Umrah pilgrims, with expected attendance exceeding 800,000, reflecting growing demand for high-quality, family- and community-oriented activities.
Culture is central to the festival, with activated sites, exhibitions, and knowledge landmarks highlighting Makkah’s historical and civilizational depth.
It connects visitors to the city’s cultural identity through interactive, informative content that raises awareness of its history and human value, presented in a modern style suited to all age groups.
The festival is expected to boost the local economy by supporting commercial activity and increasing footfall at markets, restaurants, and accommodation facilities.
It also empowers productive families and entrepreneurs through sales platforms and direct marketing opportunities, strengthening the contribution of events to the city’s gross domestic product.
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Saudi ministry urges green sector integration
February 09, 2026
RIYADH: The Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture emphasized the importance of strengthening institutional integration within the environmental sector.
It also highlighted the need to establish a strategic framework for cooperation between the ministry and the National Committee for Sustainability and the Green Economy.
This took place during a workshop recently held at the ministry’s headquarters in Riyadh, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Monday.
The event aimed to highlight the importance of partnerships between government entities and relevant national committees, as well as to strengthen joint coordination to achieve sustainability goals.
The workshop concluded with key recommendations, including the formation of a follow-up committee and specialized working groups, as well as the establishment of clear cooperation pathways with the private sector and support for priority investment opportunities.
It also recommended the issuance of measures to enhance integration, improve implementation efficiency, and sustain outcomes.
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Saudi FM receives Syrian counterpart
February 09, 2026
RIYADH: Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan received his Syrian counterpart Asaad Al-Shaibani in Riyadh on Monday.
During the meeting, the latest developments in Syria and ways to support its security and economy in order to achieve the aspirations of its people were discussed.
Saudi-Syrian relations were also reviewed, the Kingdom’s Ministry Of Foreign Affairs reported.
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Non-resident Saudi ambassador to Palestine presents credentials
February 09, 2026
RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s non-resident ambassador to Palestine Prince Mansour bin Khalid bin Farhan presented his credentials to President Mahmoud Abbas on Monday.
During the meeting, Prince Mansour conveyed the greetings of King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to the president. Abbas reciprocated by sending his greetings to the Kingdom’s leadership.
Abbas also expressed his deep appreciation for the Kingdom’s leading role in serving and supporting the Palestinian cause, and wished Prince Mansour success in his duties to strengthen Saudi-Palestinian relations in all fields, Saudi Press Agency reported.
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Saudi crown prince gives Britain’s Prince William tour of At-Turaif District
February 09, 2026
RIYADH: Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman gave Britain’s Prince William a tour of At-Turaif District, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Diriyah, on Monday.
The district is located in the heart of Diriyah, northwest of Riyadh, and is one of the Kingdom’s most significant heritage landmarks. Diriyah is the birthplace of the first Saudi state.
Prince William’s tour included a display of the Najdi architectural style in At-Turaif district, where he viewed the palaces of the imams and princes of the first Saudi state.
This included Salwa Palace, one of the historic palaces that served as the center of government during the first Saudi state.
The Prince of Wales is on his first official visit to Saudi Arabia, arriving in the capital Riyadh on Monday evening.
He was welcomed by officials including Deputy Governor of Riyadh Region Prince Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Abdulaziz.
The British Ambassador to the Kingdom Stephen Hitchen was also in attendance.
Source: arabnews.com
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