‘Live Together Cordially’: PM Modi’s Message For Muslim Man Whose Boat He Boarded For Hooghly Darshan In Kolkata
New Age Islam News Bureau
24 April 2026
Prime Minister Narendra Modi with a camera in a boat as he visits the Hooghly River, in Kolkata on Friday. (X)
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· ‘Live together cordially’: PM Modi’s message for Muslim man whose boat he boarded for Hooghly darshan in Kolkata
· Lebanon-Israel ceasefire extended by 3 weeks after Oval Office meeting
· Saudi FM discusses efforts to stop all Israeli attacks on Lebanon with parliament speaker
· Trump says he speaks 'for the UK more than Prince Harry'
· CAIR Welcomes Sentencing for ‘Hail Satan’ Threat to Tennessee Mosque
· UN warns Libya at 'critical' crossroads amid deepening divisions
· RI, Muslim nations condemn Israeli settlers' incursions into Al-Aqsa
· Gunmen kill 10 in attack on mining project in Pakistan’s Balochistan
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India
· We sail or sink together: NSA Ajit Doval meets eminent Indian Muslims
· The myth of the Muslim vote in West Bengal. We aren’t a monolith
· Gauhati HC rejects Pawan Khera's anticipatory bail plea in FIR by Assam CM's wife
· CM Omar Abdullah accuses BJP of denying statehood to J&K for NC vote
· No trace of youth who fell into stream in J&K’s Ramban after cow vigilantes’ assault; four arrested
· Army chief Upendra Dwivedi inducted into US Army War College International Hall of Fame
· Two ISI-linked operatives held for planning attacks in city
· Jammu and Kashmir police arrest 4 overground workers after LeT module bust
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Mideast
· Is the Iran conflict sidelining the unresolved Gaza crisis?
· Syria repatriates bodies of 76 victims of Israeli attacks in Lebanon
· US State Department offers $10 million reward for leader of Iraqi armed group
· Israel says it struck Hezbollah missile launcher
· Trump rules out striking Iran with nuclear weapon
· Israeli airstrikes kill 4 in Gaza
· Over 250 Indians claiming descent from biblical tribe land in Israel
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Arab World
· Thunderstorms, heavy rain to persist across Saudi Arabia
· SFDA chief advances food safety regulatory integration in New Zealand
· Cruise Saudi appoints acting CEO
· Saudi Heritage Commission registers 1,414 archaeological sites
· Saudi oil and gas expertise under study for lunar exploration
· Saudi Ministry of Culture pays tribute to doyen of Indian theatre
· Saudi ministries launch award to promote innovation in pilgrims’ services
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Europe
· France and Poland to practice nuclear strikes on Russia – media
· Auckland Mayor Wayne Brown refers to RNZ staffer as ‘a Muslim terrorist’
· Police launch investigation as graffiti sprayed across Manchester city centre mosque
· London landlords illegally advertise 'Muslim-only' apartment rentals
· Man screams racist abuse through door of Liverpool mosque
· Fake AI videos depict large crowds of Muslims praying in London streets
· 'Deadlock over': EU unlocks $105bn loan for Ukraine, slaps new sanctions on Russia
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North America
· Trump tells BBC that King's visit could 'absolutely' help repair relations with UK
· 50+ Maryland Constituents Join Record-Breaking 1,000+ Muslim Americans at USCMO’s Annual Muslim Hill Day on Capitol Hill
· US soldier charged after winning $400,000 betting on removal of Maduro
· US special forces soldier arrested for betting on Venezuela raid
· Trump would like to see Putin at G20 in Miami
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Africa
· Troops Repel Midnight Attack In Yobe, Kill 24 Terrorists
· First Lady, Hamzat inaugurate Odo Noforija central mosque
· Deloitte chief urges Nigerians to embrace institutional growth
· Foundation engages Plateau Muslim community on interfaith harmony
· Benin confirms Wadagni's presidential vote win
· President Ruto Reacts To Tinubu Over ‘Listen To Them In Kenya’ Comment, Mocks Nigeria’s English
· ‘There Is No Regret Saying I’m Involved’ – Ningi Blames Political Leaders Over Worsening Insecurity
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Southeast Asia
· No new non-muslim worship sites on Federal Territory land
· Government freezes 163 unauthorised non-Muslim religious sites in KL, launches structured solution plan
· Exco: Selangor wants ‘win-win’ solutions for non-Muslim religious sites
· Government vows no let-up in zakat fund misappropriation cases
· 5,364 Malaysian pilgrims arrive in Madinah for haj
· Zakat MAINPP denies connection to alleged fund misappropriation
· Malaysia’s cloud seeding operation boosts Johor rainfall levels
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South Asia
· Trump reviewing Congo option for Afghan refugees, sparks concern
· Afghanistan Advances Regional Trade Ties at Central Asia Industrial Expo
· Afghanistan’s UN Seat: A Call for Recognition
· Govt to publish white paper on education sector
· ‘Exposing children to measles outbreak a rights violation’
· Deputy PM Emphasizes Importance of Modern Sciences Alongside Religious Studies
· Islamic Emirate Warns of Crackdown on Foreign Workers Using Tourist Visas
Compiled by New Age Islam News Bureau
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‘Live together cordially’: PM Modi’s message for Muslim man whose boat he boarded for Hooghly darshan in Kolkata
Apr 24, 2026
Prime Minister Narendra Modi with a camera in a boat as he visits the Hooghly River, in Kolkata on Friday. (X)
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A boat owner in Bengal's Hooghly, whose boats were hired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his visit to the ghats, said that the PM gave him a message to “live together cordially.”
Mohammed Iftikhar Ahmed told ANI that the arrangements of seven boats were made at short notice. He said that a man who works near the ghats asked him for seven boats, without specifying the reason.
“He said it was nothing major,” Iftikar said, and later came to know that PM Modi was supposed to arrive.
He said that after taking a morning walk, PM came to the ghat and took his boat. "The PM said to us that we all should live together cordially," the boat owner was quoted as saying.
Another boatman, Gourango Biswas from Hooghly, told ANI that PM suddenly came, rented the boat, and went for a ride. Biswas said the Prime Minister arrived at around 7 am.
While there was limited interaction between them, Modi asked his name and gave him a warm hug after returning to the shore. He further said that the Prime Minister rode for around an hour, paid ₹1,000, and clicked pictures using his camera.
On Friday morning, PM Modi posted an X post featuring him in a boat in Bengal's Hooghly River. Along with the photos he wrote, “This morning in Kolkata, I spent some time by the banks of the Hooghly River—as an opportunity to express my gratitude to Ma Ganga.”
He followed by posting a series of photos and videos of his time at the river. PM said that Ganga holds an "extremely special' place in the heart of every Bengali and reaffirmed his commitment towards the development of Bengal.
In the post, PM said that he also met the morning walkers and boatmen, applauding their “tireless hard work.”
His visit to Hooghly follows his roadshow from Howrah to Kolkata a day before. Prime Minister is actively campaigning for the BJP in the assembly elections, the first phase of which was held on Thursday.
The second round of the elections will be held on April 29, and the counting of votes will be on May 4.
Source: hindustantimes.com
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https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/live-cordially-pm-modi-s-message-for-muslim-man-whose-boat-he-boarded-in-bengal-101777010805714.html
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Lebanon-Israel ceasefire extended by 3 weeks after Oval Office meeting
April 24, 2026
WASHINGTON/BEIRUT/JERUSALEM: Lebanon and Israel extended their ceasefire for three weeks after a high-level meeting at the White House, US President Donald Trump said on Thursday. Trump hosted Israel’s ambassador to Washington Yechiel Leiter and Lebanese ambassador to the US Nada Moawad in the Oval Office for a second round of US-facilitated talks, a day after Israeli strikes killed at least five people including a journalist.
“The Meeting went very well! The United States is going to work with Lebanon in order to help it protect itself from Hezbollah,” Trump wrote on Truth Social. Hezbollah, the Iran-aligned armed group that is fighting Israel, was not present at the talks. It says it has “the right to resist” occupying forces.
Trump added that he looked forward to hosting Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Lebanese President Joseph Aoun in the near future.
Trump also spoke to reporters in the Oval Office alongside the participants in the meeting, saying he hoped the leaders would meet during the three-week cessation of hostilities. He said there was “a great chance” the two countries would reach a peace agreement this year.
Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee and US Ambassador to Lebanon Michel Issa also attended the meeting.
The ceasefire, reached after talks between the two nations’ ambassadors to Washington last week, was set to expire on Sunday. It has yielded a significant reduction in violence, but attacks have continued in southern Lebanon, where Israeli troops have seized a self-declared buffer zone.
‘Make Lebanon great again’
Ambassador Moawad, who went into the meeting seeking an extension of the ceasefire, thanked Trump for hosting the talks. “I think with your help, with your support, we can make Lebanon great again,” she said.
A Lebanese official earlier said Beirut would push for an Israeli withdrawal, the return of Lebanese detained in Israel and a delineation of the land border in a next phase of negotiations.
Israel has sought to make common cause with Lebanon’s government over Hezbollah, which Beirut has been seeking to disarm peacefully for the past year.
Asked how the US would help Lebanon to fight Hezbollah, Trump did not provide details but said the US had “a great relationship with Lebanon.” Trump said Israel had to be able to defend itself against attacks from Hezbollah.
Trump also called for Lebanon to abolish laws against engagement with Israel. “It’s a crime to talk with Israel?” he responded when asked about the statutes known as anti-normalization laws, which he did not appear to be aware of. “Well, I’m pretty sure that that will be ended very quickly. I’ll make sure of that,” Trump said.
Deadliest day since ceasefire
The Israeli military said on Thursday that it killed two armed individuals in southern Lebanon after identifying them approaching soldiers and posing what it described as an immediate threat.
It was not immediately clear whether the incident was related to strikes reported earlier in nearby areas by Lebanon’s health ministry, which said an Israeli air strike had killed three people and artillery shelling wounded two others, including a child.
Wednesday was Lebanon’s deadliest day since the ceasefire took effect on April 16.
Those killed by Israeli strikes included Lebanese journalist Amal Khalil, according to a senior Lebanese military official and her employer, Al-Akhbar newspaper.
Israel’s military said on Wednesday it was reviewing an incident in which it had received reports that two journalists were wounded by strikes it said were aimed at vehicles departing a military structure used by Hezbollah. It said Israel does not target journalists.
Hezbollah lawmaker Hassan Fadlallah said the group wanted the ceasefire to continue but “on the basis of full compliance by the Israeli enemy.” At a televised press conference, he reiterated Hezbollah’s objections to the face-to-face talks and urged the government to cancel all forms of direct contact with Israel. Hostilities between Hezbollah and Israel reignited on March 2, when the group opened fire in support of Iran in the regional war. The ceasefire in Lebanon emerged separately from Washington’s efforts to resolve its conflict with Tehran, though Iran had called for Lebanon to be included in any broader truce.
Hezbollah said it carried out four operations in south Lebanon on Wednesday in response to Israeli strikes.
Nearly 2,500 people have been killed in Lebanon since Israel went on the offensive following Hezbollah’s March 2 attack, according to Lebanese authorities.
Israel is occupying a belt of the south that extends 5 to 10 km (3 to 6 miles) into Lebanon, saying it aims to shield northern Israel from attacks by Hezbollah, which has fired hundreds of rockets during the war.
Israel’s military reiterated a warning to residents of south Lebanon not to cross into the area.
Source: arabnews.com
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https://www.arabnews.com/node/2641064/middle-east
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Saudi FM discusses efforts to stop all Israeli attacks on Lebanon with parliament speaker
April 23, 2026
Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan and the Speaker of the Lebanese Parliament Nabih Berri. (File/AFP/Reuters)
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RIYADH: Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan discussed efforts being made to achieve a complete cessation of Israeli attacks on Lebanon with the speaker of its parliament Nabih Berri on Thursday.
In a phone call with Berri, Prince Faisal also discussed developments in Lebanon and reiterated the Kingdom’s support for the stability of Lebanon and the strengthening of its state institutions, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
Berri praised the Kingdom’s role and its ongoing efforts to support Lebanon and maintain its security and the security of the region.
He also reaffirmed Lebanon’s commitment to the Taif Agreement and its rejection of anything that threatens the Kingdom.
Israeli and Lebanese ambassadors are preparing for a new meeting in Washington on Thursday evening toward extending a fragile 10-day ceasefire that began last week.
The war between Israel and Hezbollah has left more than 2,400 dead in Lebanon.
Source: arabnews.com
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https://www.arabnews.com/node/2641023/saudi-arabia
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Trump says he speaks 'for the UK more than Prince Harry'
Apr 23, 2026
Toby Mann
Donald Trump said he spoke more for the UK than Prince Harry.
Credit: PA/AP
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US President Donald Trump says Prince Harry "is not speaking for the UK" after the Duke of Sussex called for "American leadership" to help resolve the conflict in Ukraine.
Harry did not mention Trump by name during a surprise visit to Ukraine on Thursday, but said now is "a moment for America, to show that it can honour its international treaty obligations – not out of charity but out of its enduring role in global security and strategic stability."
When asked about the remarks, Trump said it was "great advice" after asking: "How's he doing? How's his wife? Please give her my regards".
"I think I am speaking for the UK more than Prince Harry," he added.
Prince Harry's unannounced trip to Ukraine came days after he left Australia, where he and wife Meghan, both no longer working royals, had visited in a private capacity.
"The United States has a singular role in this story. Not only because of its power, but because when Ukraine gave up nuclear weapons, America was part of the assurance that Ukraine's sovereignty and borders would be respected," Harry said.
The US president did not answer directly when asked if he would invite Harry to dinner during the state visit of King CharlesIII and Queen Camilla next week.
"He's a friend of mine. We're really looking forward to it. We've spoken and we're going to have a great time," Trump said about the King.
He added that the guests would be people who "love the UK", and that he too loved the UK, before running through a quick list of what he thought the country needed to do.
"I think they made a big mistake on energy. You should open up the North Sea in Aberdeen. You should open it up," he said.
"And the other thing is they've made a big mistake on immigration."
The King and Queen are due to meet Trump at the White House during their four-day visit to the US, which starts on Monday.
Much has been made of the royal visit already, after Trump told the BBC it could "absolutely" mend relations with the UK, which have been damaged over the Iran war.
The BBC has approached the palace and the Foreign Office for comment.
Source: bbc.com
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https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cx268zxgx1no
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CAIR Welcomes Sentencing for ‘Hail Satan’ Threat to Tennessee Mosque
April 23, 2026
The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today welcomed sentencing of a Tennessee man who threatened a mosque in that state.
Robert William Miller, 50, was sentenced to received 18 months in prison for making a threat against the Islamic Society of Greater Chattanooga. Miller allegedly sent an email to the mosque stating: “I’m going to kill all of you, Hail Satan.”
Last year, CAIR welcomed charges in the case.
In a statement, CAIR Research and Advocacy Director Corey Saylor said:
“We welcome this sentencing as an important step in holding accountable those who threaten religious institutions and spread fear in our communities. No one should have to worship under the shadow of violence or intimidation.
“Threats targeting houses of worship are unacceptable and must be treated with the utmost seriousness by law enforcement authorities. We urge continued vigilance in protecting all communities from hate-motivated threats and acts of violence.”
CAIR offers a “Best Practices for Mosque and Community Safety” booklet to help keep religious facilities safe. The advice in the booklet is applicable to all houses of worship.
According to CAIR’s most recent civil rights report, complaints of anti-Muslim bias and discrimination have continued to rise nationwide, reflecting an ongoing pattern of Islamophobia impacting communities across the country.
Washington, D.C., based CAIR encourages community members facing bias or hate incidents to report them to law enforcement and to CAIR.
CAIR’s mission is to protect civil rights, enhance understanding of Islam, promote justice, and empower American Muslims.
La misión de CAIR es proteger las libertades civiles, mejorar la comprensión del Islam, promover la justicia, y empoderar a los musulmanes en los Estados Unidos.
Do you like reading CAIR press releases and taking part in our action alerts? You can help contribute to CAIR’s work of defending civil rights and empowering American Muslims across the country by making a one-time contribution or becoming a monthly donor. Supporters like you make CAIR’s advocacy work possible and defeating Islamophobia an achievable goal. Click here to donate to CAIR.
Source: cair.com
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https://www.cair.com/press_releases/cair-welcomes-sentencing-for-hail-satan-threat-to-tennessee-mosque/
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UN warns Libya at 'critical' crossroads amid deepening divisions
April 24, 2026
The United Nations says Libya is at a “critical” crossroads, facing deep political fragmentation, a distorted economy, and delayed elections that threaten the country’s stability.
The United Nations has warned that Libya is facing a “critical” political, economic, and security juncture, as divisions within state institutions continue to stall progress toward national elections and unified governance.
Briefing the Security Council, Special Representative Hanna Serwaa Tetteh said Libyan leaders are failing to meet public expectations for inclusive political participation and legitimate leadership.
She noted the emergence of parallel structures operating outside agreed frameworks, warning they risk undermining ongoing UN-led efforts to stabilise the country.
Economy under strain
Tetteh also raised concerns over Libya’s economic management, saying national wealth is being diverted into what she described as a “distorted political economy.”
She warned that unaccountable spending and the weaponisation of oil revenues are weakening fiscal discipline and limiting the state’s ability to deliver essential services and social programmes.
The UN official welcomed continued international engagement, including support from the United States, aimed at improving financial transparency and coherence.
Calls for elections grow
Libya’s UN Ambassador, Taher Al-Sunni, stressed the urgent need for a consensual constitutional framework to pave the way for elections.
He said Libyans want to end prolonged transitional phases and restore institutional legitimacy through the ballot box rather than violence.
Humanitarian needs rising
Meanwhile, the UN highlighted growing humanitarian pressures.
The Sudan Regional Response Plan, which includes Libya, aims to support nearly 600,000 Sudanese refugees and host communities, with funding needs projected at over 115 million dollars for 2026.
The UN warns that without political compromise and coordinated reforms, Libya risks remaining trapped in instability.
Source: africanews.com
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https://www.africanews.com/2026/04/23/un-warns-libya-at-critical-crossroads-amid-deepening-divisions/
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RI, Muslim nations condemn Israeli settlers' incursions into Al-Aqsa
April 24, 2026
Jakarta (ANTARA) - Indonesia and several Muslim countries condemned the repeated violations of Islamic and Christian holy sites in Jerusalem, especially the continued incursions by Israeli settlers and extremist ministers into the Al-Aqsa Mosque.
The condemnation was issued in a joint statement by foreign ministers of Indonesia, Egypt, Jordan, Pakistan, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and the United Arab Emirates, as reported by Saudi Press Agency on Friday.
"These provocative actions at Al-Aqsa Mosque constitute a flagrant violation of international law and international humanitarian law, and represent an unacceptable provocation to Muslims around the world, and a flagrant violation of the sanctity of the holy city," the joint statement read.
The foreign ministers reaffirmed their categorical rejection of any attempts to alter the historic and legal status quo in Jerusalem and its Islamic and Christian holy sites, while recognizing the special role of the Jordanian monarchy in its custodianship.
The entire area of the Al-Aqsa Mosque is a place of worship exclusively for Muslims, and the Jerusalem Waqf agency, under the responsibility of the Jordanian government, holds exclusive rights to administer the mosque affairs, including regulating access.
The ministers further condemned the accelerating illegal settlement activity emboldened by Israel's decision to approve 30 new settlements and the continued and escalating settler violence against Palestinians in the West Bank.
They said Israel's actions constitute a deliberate and direct attack on the viability of the Palestinian state and the implementation of the two-state solution.
"The ministers called upon the international community to assume its responsibilities and take clear and decisive steps to halt these violations," the joint statement said.
The foreign ministers appealed to the international community to intensify joint efforts to achieve a comprehensive peace based on the two-state solution.
They also reiterated their unwavering support for the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people on self-determination and the realization of an independent Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital.
Dozens of Israeli settlers stormed the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound on Tuesday (April 21), under heavy protection from Israeli occupation forces, as reported by Palestine's news agency WAFA.
The group stormed the mosque's courtyard, raising the Israeli flag and performing provocative Talmudic rituals inside.
Source: antaranews.com
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https://en.antaranews.com/news/413480/ri-muslim-nations-condemn-israeli-settlers-incursions-into-al-aqsa
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Gunmen kill 10 in attack on mining project in Pakistan’s Balochistan
By Fidel Rahmati
April 24, 2026
Gunmen attack a mining site in Pakistan’s Balochistan, killing 10 people including workers and police, highlighting rising insecurity in resource-rich province.
At least 10 people were killed after armed attackers stormed a copper and gold mining project in Balochistan, local officials said.
Around 40 militants, traveling on motorcycles and vehicles, launched the attack late Wednesday in the Darigwan area of Chaghi district.
Officials said the victims included seven workers and three police personnel, while unconfirmed reports suggested some employees may have been abducted.
Police confirmed the incident, adding that the bodies of the victims were transferred to nearby hospitals. The project operator, National Resources, said most of its workforce comes from local communities and pledged continued support for regional development.
No group has claimed responsibility, but separatist militants have intensified attacks in Balochistan, often targeting mining, infrastructure, and security forces.
The Baloch Liberation Army has carried out major coordinated assaults in recent months, including a wave of attacks earlier this year that killed over 190 people.
Balochistan, Pakistan’s largest yet poorest province, has long faced unrest, with insurgent groups accusing the government of exploiting natural resources without benefiting local populations.
Human rights groups condemned the attack, stressing that civilians must be protected and that deliberate targeting of non-combatants violates fundamental international norms.
Source: khaama.com
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https://www.khaama.com/gunmen-kill-10-in-attack-on-mining-project-in-pakistans-balochistan/
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India
We sail or sink together: NSA Ajit Doval meets eminent Indian Muslims
Apr 24, 2026
National Security Adviser (NSA) Ajit Doval met a group of eminent Muslims and discussed the path to a united and stronger and united India. Industrialists, educationists, activists, a doctor, and a journalist were part of the 14-member group that Doval met at the new PMO building. Doval "patiently" heard the guests for about 1.5 hours, and then shared his guidelines and vision.
Businessman and educationist Zafar Sareshwala, who led the team that met the NSA on Saturday (April 18), told India Today Digital, "Doval listened to every one of us patiently." He also said that Doval emphasised the importance of unity among religions in the country. "India is a ship, we all sail together, or we sink together, he said at the meeting."
"The government invited us, and this is a positive sign," Sareshwala said about the meeting. "In the meeting, we requested a need for a level playing field. We said neither Muslims should be discriminated against nor should they get any special treatment," he added.
"This is just the beginning of something special. We are going to continue this in the future," Sareshwala told India Today Digital.
Other than Sareshwala, the eminent Muslims who met Doval included KP Groups founder and Chairman Faruk Patel, German Steel CMD Inamulhaq Iraki, German Steel Executive Director Ibrarulhaq Iraki, Niton Valves CEO Juned Shariff, GLS Switchgear Director Zaffar Lari, Dawoodi Bohra leader Jamaat Altaf Sadikot, Anjuman-I-Islam president Zahir Kazi, community leader Haji Rayma and Chairperson of Haj Committee India Kausar Jahan. Environmental activist Saher Bhamla, AIIMS doctor Nishat Hussain, Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) Vice-Chancellor Naima Khatoon and journalist Samina Shaikh were also part of the group.
"The meeting sends a positive message that there are people in the government who are ready to listen to minorities. Regular dialogues help remove misconceptions and should continue as they help in building bridges," Zahir Kazi told The Times of India's Mohammed Wajihuddin.
DHURANDHAR MOVE OF NSA DOVAL, SAYS VETERAN JOURNALIST
"Ajit Doval, real-life Dhurandhar, that's India's National Security Advisor to Narendra Modi, is a highly pragmatic and grounded man. On 18 April, he invited 14 respected achievers and leaders of the Indian Muslim community to the newly built Prime Minister's office," posted veteran journalist Sheela Bhatt on X on Friday.
"All the Muslim leaders were selected with care and purpose. These Indians are refusing to be part of so-called 'vote-bank politics' where one's vote becomes merely a tool to defeat or select one party or the other," she wrote.
Zafar Sareshwala thanked Doval in a post on X "for giving us your valuable time, hearing us out patiently, and giving futuristic guidelines for national growth". He called it "an absolutely wonderful interaction" and "the only way forward".
The group shared their concerns and suggestions with Doval, including on education and job opportunities.
Samina Shaikh, an independent journalist, shared insights on X after meeting Doval. "As I represent myself as an independent journalist who's a part of the media fraternity while being a Muslim girl, it was important to highlight how the community supports us for our education as well as ambition."
"When issues blow out of proportion on social media and Muslims get targeted, it does concern us and how it should be sanitised," Shaikh said. She said Doval "not only heard us out with minute detailing, but also provided solutions to the concerns".
In July 2023, Doval said religions have co-existed in harmony for centuries, adding that "Islam occupies a unique and significant position in India. "Amongst its numerous religious groups, Islam occupies a unique and significant position of pride with India being home to the second-largest Muslim population in the world," he said.
The recent meeting of NSA Doval with the Muslim industrialists, educationists, religious leaders and professionals has been appreciated by the participants.
Source: indiatoday.in
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/nsa-ajit-doval-meets-muslims-in-delhi-pmo-india-unity-discussion-growth-of-nation-2900883-2026-04-24
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The myth of the Muslim vote in West Bengal. We aren’t a monolith
Amana Begam
24 April, 2026
With the controversy around SIR and an increasingly intense political campaign, the West Bengal Assembly elections have taken the attention away from elections in Assam, Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Puducherry.
What makes West Bengal so important?
The Bharatiya Janata Party has been working toward a win in the state since 2014. Among its supporters, and Hindutva believers, a victory here is seen as more than just an electoral success. It carries an ideological weight. It is tied to the idea of Hindu interests and a unified Hindu political identity.
However, what caught my eye is that this election has been picked up by international outlets as well. For example, The Guardian reported concerns about Muslims and other minorities being disproportionately removed from electoral rolls ahead of the elections.
In a state where it is widely believed that Muslim voters largely support the incumbent CM Mamata Banerjee, such developments take on a different meaning. Reports suggest that around 9.7 million names have been deleted, with about 2.7 million people challenging their removal. TMC claimed it was vote theft.
But what is interesting this time is that the contest for Muslim votes is no longer as straightforward. Mamata Banerjee now has to deal with a new challenge. Humayun Kabir—once part of her own party—is now getting support from AIMIM’s Asaduddin Owaisi.
In a state where Muslims make up nearly 30 per cent of the population, the emergence of leaders positioning themselves as the sole representatives of Muslim interests adds another layer to the contest. It complicates the effort to consolidate votes on the basis of broader, secular positioning, and gives the Muslim voter more options to choose from. And like any other community, Muslims will choose based on their own priorities.
Not a uniform bloc
Growing up in Uttar Pradesh, I saw this up close. Within my own family, political discussions were anything but uniform—some supported Congress, some leaned toward SP, others toward BSP, and over time, I even saw support emerging for AAP. It was never a single line of thinking, but a mix of opinions, often debated quite intensely. What I haven’t seen till now is support for BJP, apart from local body elections, or for a communal Muslim political party like Owaisi’s.
That is why I often found myself confused by the idea of the “Muslim vote” being treated as a single, fixed bloc—almost as if everyone already knew whom to vote for. I remember a Hindu acquaintance, someone educated and well-read, telling me that before meeting me, he believed Muslims had some kind of central authority that guided their voting decisions. He believed that people simply followed those instructions, and the entire community became a powerful mobilised vote-base.
That bizarre idea stayed with me. It reveals how easily complex realities are reduced to simple assumptions. Even today, whenever I read or write about Muslim politics in India, that memory comes back—reminding me how persistent and misplaced these perceptions can be.
What’s at stake
At a time when women’s reservation is being widely discussed, it is interesting to see how political parties are positioning themselves. To its credit, The All India Trinamool Congress has fielded more women candidates than any others and has a significant (37 per cent) share of women parliamentarians, led by Mamata Banerjee herself.
To its credit, The All India Trinamool Congress has fielded more women candidates than any others and has a significant (37 per cent) share of women parliamentarians, led by Mamata Banerjee herself.
In that context, it is worth pausing to notice something that is rarely acknowledged. Muslim voters, often spoken about in narrow or binary terms, have also played a role in shaping these outcomes. In a way, they become part of a process that brings more women into political leadership. A community that’s seen as regressive and misogynistic, where women don’t even get equal legal rights, are indirectly contributing to increasing women’s presence in political institutions.
There’s been a lot of discussion of the implications of this election for the balance of political power in India. However, much more is at stake.
With drives like the SIR, where millions are contesting their exclusion—with even polling officers denied the right to vote—it begins to feel less like a routine exercise and more like an intentional stress to the system itself.
No matter who wins in West Bengal, democracy loses.
Source: theprint.in
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://theprint.in/opinion/the-myth-of-the-muslim-vote-in-west-bengal-we-arent-a-monolith/2913034/
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Gauhati HC rejects Pawan Khera's anticipatory bail plea in FIR by Assam CM's wife
24 Apr 2026
The Gauhati High Court on Friday rejected the anticipatory bail plea of Congress leader Pawan Khera in connection with an FIR lodged on a complaint by Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma’s wife, Riniki Bhuyan Sharma, over allegations that she holds multiple passports.
A single Bench of Justice Parthiv Jyoti Saikia reserved its order on Tuesday after hearing arguments from both sides for over three hours and later declined to grant relief.
Appearing for Khera via video conferencing, senior advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi contended that the case was driven by “political vendetta”, particularly in the run-up to elections.
He submitted that Khera was not a flight risk and argued that custodial interrogation was unnecessary.
Opposing the plea, Assam Advocate General Devajit Lon Saikia submitted that the case went beyond defamation and involved serious allegations, including cheating and forgery, relating to the alleged fabrication of documents and title deeds.
The development follows a series of proceedings in multiple courts. On April 10, the Telangana High Court had granted Khera one week’s transit anticipatory bail, allowing him to approach a competent court. However, the Supreme Court, on April 15, stayed the operation of that order.
The apex court subsequently clarified that its interim order would not prejudice the consideration of any anticipatory bail application filed by Khera before a court with jurisdiction in Assam.
It also declined to vacate the stay or extend the transit bail.
In this backdrop, Khera approached the Gauhati High Court seeking anticipatory bail.
Earlier this month, Assam Police teams visited Hyderabad in search of Khera, who is stated to have a residence there. Police personnel had also searched his residence in Delhi.
Pawan Kherain a press conference has alleged that Sarma’s wife holds three passports, a claim that forms the basis of the FIR.
Source: newindianexpress.com
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CM Omar Abdullah accuses BJP of denying statehood to J&K for NC vote
Fayaz Wani
24 Apr 2026
SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Friday hit out at BJP saying “people are being punished and denied statehood because they voted for the National Conference”.
In a strongly worded post on X, Omar said, “Unnerved by the grand show in Naushera a few days ago, finally a bit of honesty from the BJP - the people of J&K are to be punished and denied statehood because they voted for @JKNC”.
His remarks came a day after BJP senior leader and Leader of Opposition Sunil Sharma stated that restoration of statehood would take place at an appropriate time and should not be linked to any individual.
“Statehood jab aana hai tab aana hai (statehood will come when it has to come),” Sharma said.
Hitting back Omar said, “So much for their tall promises & claims. Welcome back from Assam Mr LoP. The assembly was quiet, and far more productive, without you”.
Sharma had said the CM should be told where have free cylinders, 200 free power units and one lakh jobs gone.
In its poll manifesto, NC had promised 12 free cylinders, 200 free units to households and creation of one lakh jobs in J&K.
Taking a dig at Omar, LoP said, “I feel surprised that when Omar Abdullah becomes CM, then statehood should be restored. Why? The Shehzada has become the CM and for that the statehood should return. Statehood will come at its own time,” Sharma said. “Just because Shehzada from Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah dynasty has become the CM and for that statehood should be restored immediately, it is not possible”.
“This statehood should not be linked with Abdullah family’s Shehzada. It is not fair that shehzada has become the CM and statehood should be restored,” added the LoP, who had campaigned for the party in Assam.
Source: newindianexpress.com
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No trace of youth who fell into stream in J&K’s Ramban after cow vigilantes’ assault; four arrested
Fayaz Wani
24 Apr 2026
SRINAGAR: The search for 18-year-old Tanveer Ahmad Chopan, who allegedly fell into the Bishlari stream in Jammu and Kashmir’s Ramban district while being chased and attacked by cow vigilantes, entered its 13th day on Friday with no trace of his body.
Authorities said efforts are ongoing despite difficult conditions, while the family has appealed for faster recovery to ensure a dignified burial.
Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Ramban Arun Gupta told TNIE that multiple agencies, including the NDRF, SDRF, police teams, quick response teams, civil administration, and local volunteers, are involved in the search operation. However, strong water currents and the depth of the stream continue to hamper progress. Officials maintained that the search will continue until the body is located.
Police have arrested four accused, Digvijay Singh, Kewal Singh, Surjeet Singh and Sandeep Singh, all residents of Ramban. They have been remanded to judicial custody based on witness statements linking them to the incident.
According to the family, the incident took place on April 12 when Tanveer was transporting a milch cow and two calves from Jammu to his native village, Mundkhal in Pogal area of Ramsoo. His father, Mohammad Salam Chopan, said his son had valid documents for transporting the animals. He alleged that the accused intercepted Tanveer’s vehicle in the Markoote area, assaulted him, and chased him when he tried to escape. During the chase, they allegedly pelted stones at him, with one hitting his head and another his shoulder, causing him to fall into the stream.
Tanveer’s father, a Special Police Officer, said the family has been left devastated by the loss. The 18-year-old was the only son and is survived by his parents and four sisters. He has demanded strict punishment for the accused, including capital punishment.
Chopan visits the stream in the morning every day to silently watch the search operation.
“With a heavy heart, I stand at the banks and watch the rescue teams searching for body in the stream,” he said. “I urge authorities to step up efforts to trace the body so that a decent burial can be given to it”.
The incident has sparked widespread anger in the village. The locals, staged protests along the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway in Ramsoo, demanding justice for Tanveer and swift action against those responsible for his killing.
Source: newindianexpress.com
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Army chief Upendra Dwivedi inducted into US Army War College International Hall of Fame
24 Apr 2026
Chief of Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi has been inducted into the International Hall of Fame of the US Army War College in Pennsylvania, becoming the third Indian Army Chief to receive the honour, the Indian Army said.
According to the Army, General Dwivedi, a distinguished alumnus of the US Army War College, was formally inducted at Carlisle Barracks during his visit to the United States. He joins former Army Chiefs General V K Singh and General Bikram Singh in the International Hall of Fame.
In a post on X, the Indian Army said, “#GeneralUpendraDwivedi, #COAS, visited the Army War College (AWC), Carlisle Barracks, #USA, where he was inducted into the International Hall of Fame - the third Indian Army Chief to receive this honour, after General V K Singh and General Bikram Singh.”
During his visit, General Dwivedi also interacted with faculty members and international student officers, addressing them on leadership, professional military education, and evolving security challenges. He toured key facilities at the institution and participated in academic engagements, including panel discussions and review of advanced study projects under the scholars programme.
Earlier in the visit, the Army Chief arrived in Hawaii, where he was accorded a Guard of Honour at Fort Shafter, headquarters of US Army Pacific. He held discussions with General Ronald P Clark, Commanding General, US Army Pacific, focusing on strengthening India–US defence cooperation and enhancing collaboration in the Indo-Pacific region.
The Army said General Dwivedi also undertook an aerial tour of Oahu island, gaining insights into training infrastructure and multi-domain operational readiness.
His visit follows recent trips by the Indian Air Force and Navy chiefs to the United States, reflecting continued high-level military exchanges between India and the US.
Source: newindianexpress.com
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Two ISI-linked operatives held for planning attacks in city
Namita Bajpai
24 Apr 2026
LUCKNOW: The Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) on Thursday arrested two ISI-linked operatives who were planning to execute grenade attacks at multiple cities in the state and Delhi. In their early 20s, the accused have been identified as Tushar Chauhan alias Hizbullah Ali Khan, from Baghpat currently staying in Meerut, and Sameer Khan of Delhi.
ATS officials said Tushar’s interrogations revealed a conspiracy for terror strikes. “The arrests have exposed a chilling recruitment pattern through social media in which youth were radicalised and incentivised to carry out violent acts,” an ATS official said.
Tushar revealed that he had been assigned the task of carrying out grenade attacks in Delhi and UP to eliminate people identified by his handlers in Pakistan, the official said. “In return, he was promised `3 lakh and logistics support, besides his relocation to Pakistan via Dubai,” the official said.
ATS sources said Tushar was radicalised after he came in contact with Pakistan-based gangsters Shahzad Bhatti and Abid Jat through Instagram. Communication later shifted to encrypted channels, including voice and video calls.
Source: newindianexpress.com
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Jammu and Kashmir police arrest 4 overground workers after LeT module bust
24.04.26
Jammu and Kashmir police have arrested a woman and three other alleged overground workers in connection with the recent busting of an interstate militant module.
Early this month, the police had said they had arrested two Pakistani Lashkar militants who were on the run for the past 16 years, along with their three alleged Kashmiri associates.
Police officers then said they busted a major interstate Lashkar-e-Toiba (LeT) module and apprehended the five in searches conducted in Jammu and Kashmir, Haryana, Rajasthan and Punjab. The officials had identified the lead catch as Pakistani militants Abdullah alias Abu Huraira and Usman alias Khubab, both listed militants in Jammu and Kashmir belonging to the A+ category.
In a statement on Thursday, the police said they arrested four overground workers from the Hazratbal area of the city here on Wednesday night.
They identified the overground workers as Zahoor Ahmad Mir, Bashir Ahmad Bhat and Ghulam Mohammad Bhat, all residents of Hazratbal.
The woman was identified as Shazia Mohammad, a resident of Hazratbal as well.
The police said a hand grenade, 15 AK-47 rounds, four mobile phones and some cash were recovered from their possession.
“A case has been filed against them under various sections of the UAPA and Arms Act,” the police said.
Source: telegraphindia.com
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Mideast
Is the Iran conflict sidelining the unresolved Gaza crisis?
ANAN TELLO
April 23, 2026
LONDON: As the US-Israeli war with Iran consumes diplomatic attention and rattles global markets, many fear Gaza is once again being pushed to the margins.
More than six months into a ceasefire that has seen continued violations, hundreds of thousands in Gaza are living in dire conditions, with aid severely constrained as the Rafah crossing remains closed.
Feelings of abandonment deepened on March 1, a day after the US and Israel launched joint strikes on Iran, when Israeli authorities shut the Rafah border crossing, a vital route for aid and the evacuation of critically ill patients.
The closure triggered panic buying across Gaza as residents feared a return to the famine-like conditions that blighted the enclave at the height of the conflict.
Maysaa Yousef, a mother of four and an artist in central Gaza, described the initial hours after the strikes began on Iran.
“We woke up and learned they had struck Iran and that a war had started,” she told Arab News on March 4. “All the crossings were closed that morning, and nothing was entering Gaza. People were terrified we would fall back into famine again.”
Yousef said people rushed through markets in a frenzy, grabbing whatever food they could find, including items they did not need.
“Nothing was left,” she said. “Those who didn’t have money borrowed it, and people brought carts to carry what they bought.”
Yousef and her family were among them. “We did the same,” she said. “We ran through the markets, going anywhere food might still be available. Shopkeepers became so frightened that people would steal food that they shut their doors.
“The whole situation in Gaza descended into chaos, as if the war had returned to us, not Iran. Then there were many fighter jets. The noise was worse than during the war on us.”
As of early 2026, Israel controls the eastern, more militarized part of Gaza, including buffer zones and corridors, while Hamas controls the western, coastal side, where most of the remaining civilian population lives.
This internal divide is commonly marked by the “Yellow Line.”
Humanitarian aid enters almost exclusively through crossings controlled by Israel, especially Kerem Shalom. Aid is inspected and offloaded there, then trucked deeper into Gaza by UN and humanitarian agencies.
The Rafah crossing, the only gateway to the outside world that does not pass through Israel, remains closed.
Israel’s Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories, a unit within the Ministry of Defense, said on March 1 that the closure of all crossings into the Gaza Strip was part of “several necessary security adjustments” because of the war with Iran, The Times of Israel reported.
Israel views Hamas as the main obstacle to easing Gaza’s humanitarian crisis, arguing that the Iran-backed group, which still controls swathes of the strip, continues to divert aid and uses civilian areas for military activity.
On March 2, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called for the crossings to reopen.
“It is imperative that all crossings be reopened … as soon as possible,” Guterres’ spokesman Stephane Dujarric said. “In recent days, our partners have been forced to ration fuel, prioritize life-saving operations, albeit in reduced capacity as our local stocks are going down.”
In the second week of April, the World Health Organization halted medical evacuations to Egypt via Rafah after Israeli forces killed a contractor driving a WHO-rented vehicle in southern Gaza.
The Israeli military said troops had “identified an unmarked vehicle approaching them and the Yellow Line, posing an immediate threat,” referring to the boundary of Israeli-held territory.
By April 20, the International Rescue Committee warned that Gaza’s humanitarian crisis was “being forgotten,” even as conditions in the embattled Palestinian enclave were “deteriorating at an alarming pace.”
At least 2.1 million people, almost all of Gaza’s population, remain displaced within the enclave, with most sheltering in tents while facing winter flooding and storms, summer heat, and rodent infestations.
Families are struggling to survive amid severe shortages of the most basic, life-saving supplies.
“Gaza’s crisis is far from over,” said Faten Abu Mousa, IRC Gaza child protection manager. “For millions of civilians, the emergency is ongoing, relentless, and life-threatening.”
Food insecurity remains widespread and severe, she added. About 1.6 million people, or around 77 percent of Gaza’s population, are expected to face acute food insecurity.
“Despite expanded distributions of food parcels, bread, and hot meals, families are struggling to meet even their most basic nutritional needs,” she said. “Prices remain prohibitively high, placing food further out of reach for many.”
The strain extends far beyond food. Gaza’s health system is on its knees, with 94 percent of hospitals damaged or destroyed.
Civilians remain caught in a cycle of violence as Israeli airstrikes and ground operations put lives at risk, while essential infrastructure, including health services, water systems, and aid delivery, remains severely constrained.
On April 17, at least 37 displaced Palestinians, including children, were killed in a series of Israeli strikes on Al-Mawasi, west of Khan Younis city in southern Gaza, according to media reports.
Witnesses in Al-Mawasi told the BBC that a powerful explosion that night set tents ablaze. One man said he woke to “screaming and panic” as flames spread quickly from one tent to another.
While global attention is focused on the Iran conflict, aid groups warn that already limited humanitarian funding could be stretched further, slowing the response, even as needs remain high.
“The situation is extremely difficult,” Dr. Salwa Al-Tibi, Gaza-based country director for the US NGO MedGlobal, told Arab News. “Living conditions in Gaza remain dire.
“Most families are still displaced and heavily dependent on humanitarian aid, including trucked drinking water, because there is no reliable water supply at all.
“Many civilians cannot afford basic food or essential goods, and they also lack protection from violence and environmental hazards.”
A prolonged shortage of cooking gas and fuel since the start of the war has compounded the hardship. Supplies of gas entering Gaza, even after the ceasefire was declared, remain well below the population’s actual needs, according to UN agencies.
“This is the reality for me and for many families here in Gaza under these extremely difficult conditions,” Al-Tibi said. “The airstrikes are still causing major problems, including more damage to critical facilities and further disruption to daily life.”
Indeed, Israeli attacks across the Gaza Strip have continued since the ceasefire took effect Oct. 10, with violence surging in recent weeks, the UN said on April 21.
“Our partners on the ground report that between April 12-18, incidents such as gunfire, shelling and strikes increased by 46 percent compared with the previous week, marking the highest weekly total since the October ceasefire agreement went into effect,” Dujarric told a press conference.
Between Oct. 7, 2023, when the war began, and April 6 this year, at least 72,312 Palestinians have been killed and 172,134 injured, according to Gaza’s health authority.
Medecins Sans Frontieres said in a recent report that Israeli authorities are “purposefully and systematically destroying the conditions necessary for life in Gaza, while also severely limiting the entry of food, water, medicines, and other essential supplies into the strip.”
For civilians, that pressure is felt not only in shortages, but also in the constant threat of renewed displacement.
On April 13, Yousef, who lives among the rubble of her former home, told Arab News she and her family had spent the previous two weeks enduring “psychological warfare.”
“We’ve been packing our things and preparing for displacement after the army sent messages to our phones saying: ‘Wait for us next week, we’re coming to have coffee at your place, so be ready,’” she said.
“I keep thinking: Where are we supposed to go? No one is thinking about us. And now Gaza is on the brink of a plague-like disease. Rats and weasels have spread so much that they’ve become more numerous than people.”
She added that weasels were attacking newborns in the tents, and Israel was refusing to allow in pest-control products.
“The rodents’ droppings are mixing with the already unsafe water we use,” Yousef said. “Even the drinking water is contaminated. Sometimes I go for days refusing to drink it, but then I have no choice. You can often see green algae in it.”
She recounted one incident in which a rodent attacked a child. “A couple of weeks ago, a weasel bit a newborn on the face while the baby was sleeping in a tent at night,” Yousef said on April 6.
“It was completely dark, and the mother scrambled to find some source of light to understand why her baby was screaming. There are often no light sources at all late at night.”
Al-Tibi, who is living in displacement in Gaza City after her home was destroyed by an Israeli strike, said the waste and sanitation crisis is worsening.
“Municipalities are unable to collect garbage because of the lack of fuel and equipment,” she said. “Damage to sewage infrastructure has caused sewage to (spill into) residential areas.
“At the same time, everything here has been badly damaged, and there are severe shortages of medical supplies, fuel, and basic resources because of the blockade. This has also made effective pest control almost impossible.
“One of the most urgent issues facing people across Gaza is the growing public health crisis caused by the uncontrolled spread of rats, insects, scabies, and other skin diseases.
“This is being driven largely by the accumulation of waste, the collapse of sanitation systems, and the breakdown of infrastructure.
“The situation has led to rodent bites, widespread scabies outbreaks, and serious infections among displaced families, including myself.”
Rats are everywhere, she said, with no means of addressing the infestation.
“If you speak to anyone on the street in Gaza, one of the first things they will say is: Please help us find a way to deal with the insects and rats,” Al-Tibi said.
“There are many reasons why rats and insects are spreading so widely, including the buildup of solid waste, the destruction of infrastructure, and the collapse of basic services.”
The destruction is vast. On April 20, the UN and EU said Gaza’s human development had been pushed back by 77 years, with $71.4 billion needed over the next decade for recovery and reconstruction.
The final Gaza Rapid Damage and Needs Assessment, carried out jointly with the UN-partnered World Bank, estimated that $26.3 billion will be required in the first 18 months to restore essential services, rebuild critical infrastructure and support economic recovery.
Meanwhile, the heaviest toll is being borne by Gaza’s youngest residents.
“The famine has affected children more than adults,” Yousef said. “Before the war, there was plenty of food in Gaza, so adults at least had the chance to grow and build their bodies properly. But children are being denied that chance, and many are growing up weak and frail.
“For the past three years, the food available to us has been extremely limited. Throughout the whole month of Ramadan, I craved just one egg.
“Fresh fruit and vegetables are rarely available. I could not find eggs or milk. We eat whatever meat reaches us, even if it has spoiled after long delays at the border crossing.
“We are still starving because we have no alternatives. We rely heavily on canned food in our diet. Canned food is dead food — it has little nutritional value and has weakened our immunity.”
The emergency did not begin with the current closure. In late August 2025, an Integrated Food Security Phase Classification analysis said famine thresholds had been met in the enclave.
Gaza’s food crisis began when Israel blocked the entry of food and water on Oct. 9, 2023. UN agencies were already warning of mass starvation in December 2023.
Throughout 2024, aid groups and UN agencies repeatedly warned that famine was imminent. Formal confirmation only came in August 2025 because the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification requires evidence of extreme food deprivation, acute malnutrition and starvation-related deaths.
Against this backdrop, the IRC urged the international community to keep Gaza at the forefront of global attention, stressing that sustained focus, funding and a rapid, unhindered expansion of aid are critical to preventing further loss of life.
Protecting civilians, safeguarding aid workers, restoring medical evacuations and ensuring a steady flow of assistance must remain urgent global priorities, the organization said.
Source: arabnews.com
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Syria repatriates bodies of 76 victims of Israeli attacks in Lebanon
April 23, 2026
LONDON: Syrian authorities have repatriated the bodies of 76 nationals killed during Israeli attacks in Lebanon since early March.
The General Authority for Borders and Customs confirmed that 180 bodies of victims killed by Israeli shelling have been transported across the Syrian-Lebanese border.
Authorities received 37 bodies at the Jdeidet Yabous crossing. Another 39 bodies were repatriated via the Jousieh crossing, according to the Syrian Arab News Agency.
Israeli attacks in Lebanon since March 2 have resulted in 2,454 deaths and 7,658 injuries, according to the latest data from the National News Agency.
The Iran-backed Hezbollah militia launched strikes on Israel in response to the killing of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on the first day of US and Israeli strikes on Iran on Feb. 28.
Lebanon was not included in the ceasefire agreement between the US and Iran in early April. However, Lebanese and Israeli officials began a second round of direct talks in Washington on Thursday to discuss the possibility of extending the truce between Tel Aviv and Hezbollah that started last week.
Source: arabnews.com
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US State Department offers $10 million reward for leader of Iraqi armed group
April 24, 2026
WASHINGTON: The US State Department is offering up to $10 million for information on the leader of the Tehran-backed Iraqi armed group Kataeb Sayyid Al-Shuhada (KSS), which Washington designates as a terrorist organization.
US officials said in a social media post Thursday they were seeking information on KSS leader Hashim Finyan Rahim Al-Saraji, also known as Abu Alaa Al-Walai.
The group has “killed Iraqi civilians and attacked US diplomatic facilities in Iraq, as well as attacking US military bases and personnel in Iraq and Syria,” Washington said.
The post notes “you could be eligible for relocation and a reward” for information on Al-Saraji’s whereabouts.
Al-Saraji has a seat within the Coordination Framework, the ruling Shiite alliance that holds the parliamentary majority.
Iran-backed groups have targeted the US embassy in Iraq’s capital, its diplomatic and logistics facility at Baghdad’s airport, and oil fields operated by foreign companies.
Iraq, which had recently regained some stability after decades of conflict, was immediately dragged into the Middle East war triggered when the United States and Israel attacked Iran February 28.
Earlier this month, a similar reward was offered for the leader of Kataeb Hezbollah, a powerful Iraqi armed group who kidnapped US journalist Shelly Kittleson last month and held her for a week before setting her free.
Washington has piled pressure on Baghdad to fight the pro-Tehran groups by suspending cash shipments and freezing funding for security programs in Iraq, according to US media reports this week.
Source: arabnews.com
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Israel says it struck Hezbollah missile launcher
April 24, 2026
Israel’s military said it struck a missile launcher in Lebanon that had fired into Israel on Thursday in an attack that Israeli air defenses intercepted. Hezbollah claimed the attack.
Israel’s announcement of the strike came soon after Trump said the Israel-Lebanon ceasefire had been extended by three weeks.
Hezbollah said it had launched rockets toward Israel in retaliation for an Israeli strike on the Lebanese village of Yater. Two people, including a child, were wounded by Israeli artillery shelling there, said Lebanon’s public health ministry.
The ministry also said that an Israeli airstrike killed three people farther north, in the area of Nabatieh. The Israeli military said it had killed three militants who had launched a missile toward an Israeli warplane.
Source: arabnews.com
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Trump rules out striking Iran with nuclear weapon
April 24, 2026
WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump on Thursday ruled out striking Iran with a nuclear weapon, after his previous threats to completely destroy Iranian civilization.
“No, I wouldn’t use it,” Trump told reporters at the White House.
“Why would I use a nuclear weapon when we’ve, in a very conventional way, decimated them without it?” he asked.
“A nuclear weapon should never be allowed to be used by anybody.”
Trump on April 7 issued a genocidal threat to Iran that a “whole civilization will die tonight, never to be brought back,” but within hours agreed to a ceasefire that he has since extended in the war launched by the US and Israel.
Vice President JD Vance during the conflict warned that the US was ready to intensify damage on Iran with weapons not previously used, but the White House denied he was threatening nuclear strikes.
Vance in failed negotiations had pushed Iran for greater concessions on its contested nuclear work.
Trump told reporters that he was seeking an Iran “without a nuclear weapon that’s going to try and blow up one of our cities or blow up the entire Middle East.”
Iran denies seeking a nuclear weapon and the UN nuclear watchdog says that an atomic bomb was not imminent before the war.
The US is the only country to have used nuclear weapons in combat, obliterating the Japanese cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki at the end of World War II, killing some 214,000 people.
Israel is widely known to have nuclear weapons but does not publicly acknowledge them.
Trump’s blanket statement against any nuclear use would appear to be at odds with longstanding US nuclear doctrine, which reserves the right to use nuclear weapons.
Trump has previously called for an end to a US moratorium on nuclear testing in response to US allegations of secret testing by China and Russia.
Former president Barack Obama had called for an eventual goal of a world without nuclear weapons, but his administration also said that so long as they existed, the US arsenal would serve as a deterrent.
The US has rejected calls to declare that it will never use nuclear weapons first in a conflict.
Source: arabnews.com
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Israeli airstrikes kill 4 in Gaza
April 23, 2026
Israeli airstrikes killed at least four Palestinians in Gaza on Thursday, Palestinian health officials said.
One person was killed in a strike in southern Gaza’s Khan Younis in which several others were wounded, local medics said.
Israel’s military claimed it had targeted militants transporting munitions, who it said had posed a threat to Israeli soldiers.
Three others, including a rescue worker, were killed in a separate strike in Maghazi, a Palestinian refugee camp in the Deir Al-Balah area in central Gaza, health officials said. Israel’s military had no immediate comment on that strike.
Israel has carried out repeated strikes on Gaza since a US-brokered ceasefire came into effect in October.
Both Israel and Hamas have accused each other of ceasefire violations. There is no mechanism for enforcing the ceasefire.
At Gaza City’s Al-Shifa Hospital, the territory’s largest medical facility, relatives stood among mourners gathered to bury five people, including three children, who were killed on Wednesday in an Israeli airstrike on a northern Gaza town.
“There is no ceasefire, no truce, nothing at all,” said Mohammed Baalousha, a relative of one of the victims. “There is no safety in any area.”
Earlier on Wednesday, a citizen was killed, and others were injured in an airstrike targeting a group of citizens while they were attempting to remove the rubble of their home in Old Gaza Street in Jabalia town, north of the strip.
Israeli artillery also shelled the eastern areas of Beit Lahia, with shrapnel falling on citizens’ homes in Beit Lahia’s main street. Four citizens were injured by Israeli army gunfire east of Al-Bureij refugee camp in central Gaza.
In a separate attack, a citizen was seriously injured in a drone strike near the Bani Suhaila roundabout east of Khan Younis, in the southern Gaza Strip.
The death toll from the Israeli aggression on the Gaza Strip has reached 72,568, with 172,338 injured, since the start of the assault on Oct. 7, 2023, medical sources in Gaza reported on Thursday.
They said that hospitals in Gaza received the bodies of six slain Palestinians, along with 18 injuries, in the past 24 hours.
The number of fatalities since the ceasefire on Oct. 11 has surged to 791, with more than 2,235 injuries reported. The bodies of 761 Palestinians have been retrieved over the same period.
Thousands of victims remain trapped under collapsed buildings or on the streets.
However, emergency responders are struggling to reach them due to a lack of essential equipment for debris removal and rescue operations.
Rehabilitation of Gaza, where two years of Israeli bombardment have destroyed four-fifths of buildings, has been projected by global institutions to cost around $70 billion.
Representatives of US President Donald Trump’s “Board of Peace” have held talks with state-owned Dubai multinational DP World about managing supply chains and infrastructure projects in Gaza, the Financial Times said on Tuesday.
Source: arabnews.com
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Over 250 Indians claiming descent from biblical tribe land in Israel
April 23, 2026
TEL AVIV: More than 250 Indians claiming descent from a biblical tribe landed at Tel Aviv airport on Thursday, as part of a government operation to relocate them to Israel.
They are the first “Bnei Menashe” (“Sons of Manasseh“) to arrive in Israel since the government decided in November to fund the immigration of around 4,600 members of the community from the state of Manipur in northeast India.
The community claims to descend from Manasseh, the forefather of one of the biblical “lost tribes” of Israel exiled in 720 BC by Assyrian conquerors.
The Shavei Israel organization, which seeks to trace the descendants of the lost tribes, said that some 4,000 Bnei Menashe have already immigrated to Israel since the 1990s, with around 7,000 others still living in India.
Their oral history tells of a centuries-long exodus through Persia, Afghanistan, Tibet and China, all the while adhering to certain Jewish religious practices, like circumcision.
In India, they were converted to Christianity by 19th-century missionaries.
The 250 Bnei Menashe who arrived on Thursday are to settle in northern Israel, according to the ministry of integration.
They will need to convert in order to become Israeli citizens.
Immigration Minister Ofir Sofer, who welcomed the newcomers at the airport, told AFP that their arrival marked a “historic moment.”
“This is the beginning of an operation that will allow the entire community to immigrate, 1,200 per year,” he said.
Manipur has seen periodic clashes for nearly three years between the predominantly Hindu Meitei majority and the mainly Christian Kuki community that have killed more than 250 people.
Since April 2025, more than 18,000 Jews have immigrated to Israel, down 18 percent over the previous year.
Source: arabnews.com
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Arab World
Thunderstorms, heavy rain to persist across Saudi Arabia
April 24, 2026
RIYADH: The National Center for Meteorology (NCM) warned on Friday that moderate to heavy thunderstorms will continue across much of Saudi Arabia, bringing the threat of flash floods, hail, and sandstorms to the Kingdom.
The unstable weather is expected to impact the Eastern Province, Northern Borders, Al-Jouf, Hail, Al-Qassim, and Riyadh regions. Forecasters also flagged heightened risks for the western and southern highlands, including Madinah, Makkah, Al-Baha, Asir, and Jazan.
Light to moderate storms are anticipated in Tabuk and Najran, while night and early morning fog is likely to reduce visibility in several areas.
The General Directorate of Civil Defense has urged the public to stay away from valleys and flood-prone zones, noting that dry wadis can transform into raging torrents in minutes. Residents are advised to monitor official weather apps and adhere to safety instructions.
The current instability is part of an unusually intense spring weather pattern that has seen rainfall levels soar more than 160% above the seasonal average in some provinces. Meteorologists attribute the severity to a powerful jet stream pulling deep tropical moisture from the Indian Ocean into the Arabian Peninsula.
The NCM noted that the current rainy system, which began on April 20, has already caused localized flooding in low-lying areas. In Riyadh and the Eastern Province, visibility has been severely restricted by wind-blown sand preceding the heavy downpours.
Source: arabnews.com
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SFDA chief advances food safety regulatory integration in New Zealand
April 23, 2026
AUCKLAND, New Zealand: Dr. Hisham Aljadhey, CEO of the Saudi Food and Drug Authority, held a series of strategic bilateral meetings with international regulatory counterparts on the sidelines of the 7th International Heads of Food Agencies Forum (IHFAF) in Auckland.
Aljadhey held talks with Katie Pettifer, CEO of the Food Standards Agency in the UK, during which they discussed the impact of nutrition policies and aligning regulatory methodologies to support evidence-based governance.
He also met Gerard Bakker, inspector general of the Netherlands Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority, and explored ways to deepen technical cooperation and exchange expertise.
Aljadhey also held talks with Ingunn Midttun Godal, director general of the Norwegian Food Safety Authority.
He concluded his meetings with Vincent Arbuckle of New Zealand Food Safety, expressing appreciation for New Zealand’s hosting of the forum and underscoring the SFDA’s aspiration for outcomes that enhance international coordination and regulatory coherence.
The IHFAF is an annual platform that convenes global regulatory leaders to harmonize efforts and strengthen the safety and quality of food systems. Held this year under the theme “Risk Communication,” the forum continues to benefit from Saudi Arabia’s leadership as a founding member.
The Kingdom, through the SFDA, has hosted the forum’s secretariat since its inception more than six years ago, playing a central role in driving collective international action on food safety.
Source: arabnews.com
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Cruise Saudi appoints acting CEO
April 23, 2026
JEDDAH: Cruise Saudi, a wholly owned subsidiary of the Public Investment Fund, has announced the appointment of Taha Omar Nazar as acting CEO.
The board paid tribute to outgoing CEO Lars Clasen, crediting him with laying the groundwork for Aroya Cruises and expanding the company’s cruise tourism footprint across the Kingdom.
The appointment reflects the company’s commitment to strengthening executive leadership, consolidating institutional stability, and sustaining the execution of its strategy as it enters its next phase of growth.
Nazar, who has almost two decades of experience spanning oil and gas, aviation, and maritime tourism, steps into the role with a mandate to sharpen performance and accelerate the company’s strategic and commercial agenda. His background spans finance, governance, and organizational transformation, with a focus on cost efficiency and institutional growth.
“I am honored by the board’s confidence,” Nazar said, pledging to push the company’s ambitions forward, enhancing performance and accelerating the achievement of the company’s strategic and commercial objectives.
Source: arabnews.com
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Saudi Heritage Commission registers 1,414 archaeological sites
April 23, 2026
RIYADH: The Saudi Heritage Commission has listed 1,414 new archaeological sites in the national antiquities register, which reflects the diversity of the Kingdom’s cultural riches.
It also underscores the broad scope of national efforts to survey and document archaeological sites, and to enable their utilization as cultural and economic resources that support national development.
The newly registered sites cover all regions of the Kingdom.
Riyadh recorded 525 new archaeological sites, Makkah 378, Madinah six, Qassim 64, Eastern Province 17, Asir 10, Tabuk 17, Hail 68, Northern Borders Region five, Jazan 34, Najran five, Al-Baha two, and Jouf 283.
Source: arabnews.com
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Saudi oil and gas expertise under study for lunar exploration
Hebshi Alshammari
April 23, 2026
RIYADH: A pact between a Saudi Arabia university and Japanese space exploration company has raised hopes of using the Kingdom’s expertise in oil and gas infrastructure for a lunar economy.
Dr. Julien-Alexandre Lamamy, CEO of ispace-Europe, told Arab News recently that the company envisages tangible economic returns and employment opportunities for Saudi Arabia through the partnership signed with King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology in January.
He pointed to significant potential for Saudi Arabia’s world-leading industries, such as mining, oil and gas, to pivot toward lunar exploration and space resource applications.
“ispace sees significant potential for Saudi Arabia to build on its expertise in mining and oil and gas, translating these strengths into lunar surface exploration, infrastructure, and space resources,” Lamamy said.
He envisaged working with Saudi partners to develop these lunar capabilities, and said the Kingdom is well-positioned to leverage its current strengths to play a meaningful role in the emerging lunar economy.
Lamamy said the partnership includes exploring the possibility of transporting Saudi payloads to the moon, though the specifics of the delivery and mission timelines have not yet been defined.
He also confirmed that the partnership with KACST explicitly includes initiatives to develop Saudi national capabilities, skills and knowledge in lunar exploration.
“With the recent establishment of ispace SA, the company’s investment in job creation in the Kingdom will advance as it increases Saudi projects, including those developed with KACST,” he said.
The partnership, signed on the sidelines of the Saudi-Japanese Ministerial Forum earlier this year, aims to design, manufacture, test and operate advanced lunar exploration technologies, including rover systems.
Dr. Maryam Noah, KACST’s vice president, future economies sector, told Arab News: “This strategic partnership reflects KACST’s commitment to strengthening the Kingdom’s leadership in the fields of space and next-generation lunar exploration.
“Through our collaboration with ispace, we aim to develop advanced technologies and build national knowledge, skills, and capabilities that will contribute to shaping the future of Saudi Arabia in the space sector.”
Takeshi Hakamada, ispace CEO and founder, added: “We are honored to partner with KACST to advance Saudi Arabian lunar technology, missions and capability.
“The focus across lunar rover systems, lunar science payload transportation and operation on the Moon is just a start.”
Source: arabnews.com
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Saudi Ministry of Culture pays tribute to doyen of Indian theater
Rashid Hassan
April 23, 2026
RIYADH: The Saudi Theater and Performing Arts Commission launched the Ebrahim Al-Kazi Chair of Research at the Saudi Center for Research and Knowledge Intercommunication, supported by the Ministry of Culture.
“The Commission announces the launch of the Ebrahim Al-Kazi Research Chair, who serves as a symbol of cultural partnership between Saudi Arabia and India,” said the commission.
The launch ceremony on Wednesday was attended by Indian Ambassador Suhel Ajaz Khan, CEO of the Commission Mohammed Alwan, former Shoura Council member Hamad bin Abdullah Al-Kazi, a senior member of the Al-Kazi family, and other cultural personalities and Saudi officials.
“This initiative is a fitting tribute to Ebrahim Al-Kazi — a towering figure of modern Indian theater, former director of the National School of Drama, and mentor to generations of Indian theater and film artists. His work transcends cultures, and with family roots in Unaizah in Al Qassim Province of Saudi Arabia, his life and legacy serves as an enduring cultural link between India and Saudi Arabia,” the Indian ambassador told Arab News on Thursday.
Earlier, speaking at the ceremony, Khan said: “Glad to be at this historic launch of the research chair, a tribute that is both timely and richly deserved. Al-Kazi was far more than a man of the theater. He was a bridge between two great nations. Born of Saudi heritage and nurtured in India, he devoted his life to weaving together our civilizations through the universal language of art and human expression.
“He was the doyen of Indian theater, played a pivotal role in shaping the National School of Drama, and served as its director for nearly 15 years. He mentored generations of theater artists, many of whom went on to become renowned film personalities, shaping the landscape of Indian cinema,” added the envoy.
“The National School of Drama in New Delhi stands as his enduring legacy-more than an institution, it was his gift to India. It became a crucible for artistic excellence and helped define modern Indian theatre, reflecting a vision that carried the essence of both his ancestral roots and his homeland,” said Khan.
Al-Kazi was also a noted art connoisseur, collector, and gallery owner, having founded the Art Heritage Gallery in New Delhi.
Over the course of his distinguished career, he was honored with several of India’s highest civilian awards including the Padma Shri (1966), the Padma Bhushan (1991), and the Padma Vibhushan (2010), India’s second-highest civilian honor.
“Now Saudi Arabia establishes this prestigious research chair in his name, India is deeply touched. This is not merely an academic distinction, it’s a powerful affirmation that culture transcends borders, and that the ties between India and Saudi Arabia are profound and enduring. His remarkable legacy stands as a powerful symbol of these deep cultural ties,” said the ambassador.
“May this research chair inspire future generations of scholars, artists, and cultural ambassadors to follow in the footsteps of Al-Kazi,” he added.
Al-Kazi, who passed away in New Delhi in August 2020, was born in 1925 and grew up in the Indian town of Pune.
He was raised in a multicultural world of many languages, and his passion for theater began aged 9 while taking part in school plays.
When he moved to Mumbai to study at St. Xavier’s College, Al-Kazi participated in the progressive art movement and joined the Sultan “Bobby” Padamsee’s Theater Group company.
His father Hamad Al-Kazi noticed his son’s flair for the arts and sent him to the US to complete his studies.
He later joined the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London, where he met the former Indian Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru who was on an official visit to Britain. He had admired Al-Kazi’s work and asked him to return to Delhi to create a theater group and help him establish the National School of Drama in 1959.
Source: arabnews.com
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Saudi ministries launch award to promote innovation in pilgrims’ services
April 23, 2026
RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, in cooperation with the Ministry of Education, has opened registration for the second Researchers in the Service of Pilgrims award, supporting innovation and applied research in the Hajj and Umrah sector.
According to the Saudi Press Agency, the award, promoting innovation in pilgrims’ services in line with Saudi Vision 2030, targets undergraduate and graduate students inside and outside the Kingdom, as well as faculty members and researchers from academic and research institutions.
As part of the efforts to enhance Hajj and Umrah services and achieve Vision 2030 goals, the ministries have launched the second edition of the award under the theme, “Towards research innovation that enriches the pilgrim and Umrah experience.”
It encourages practical solutions to sector challenges and opportunities, aiming to enhance the pilgrim experience and strengthen Saudi Arabia’s global leadership in crowd management and religious services.
The award promotes applied research and bridges academic knowledge with real-world challenges.
It covers eight strategic tracks: digital transformation and AI, spiritual experience enhancement, sustainability, crowd safety, health services, smart transport, economics and support services, and data governance.
The total prize pool is SR1,625,000 ($433,225) in addition to non-monetary support such as consultations to help implement winning projects.
Applicants are invited to review conditions and register via the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah’s official website.
Source: arabnews.com
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Europe
France and Poland to practice nuclear strikes on Russia – media
23 Apr, 2026
France and Poland are preparing joint military exercises simulating conventional and nuclear strikes on Russia and Belarus, according to Polish media. Moscow has claimed that NATO will practice the blockade and seizure of Russia’s Kaliningrad Region at the same time.
The Wirtualna Polska (WP) news outlet reported on Thursday, citing sources within the military, that the nuclear drills are set to take place “soon” over the Baltic Sea and northern Poland, and are meant to develop a “Polish-French military arm… outside of NATO bureaucracy” to deter supposed Russian aggression.
Moscow has consistently dismissed the claims as nonsense, stressing it has no intention of attacking any foreign states and accusing NATO of openly preparing for a military confrontation.
Under the scenarios, reportedly discussed during French President Emmanuel Macron’s meeting with Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk earlier this week, Polish F‑16 jets will conduct long‑range reconnaissance and target identification, and will strike “high‑value targets in the vicinity of St. Petersburg” using conventional JASSM‑ER cruise missiles.
French Rafale B fighters, armed with ASMP missiles carrying nuclear warheads, will also fly from France to the Budapest‑Kaliningrad line and simulate nuclear strikes on targets in Russia and Belarus.
The planned exercises are described as part of Macron’s push to extend the country’s “nuclear umbrella” over other European states and expand France’s nuclear potential. Russia has consistently condemned NATO for escalating tensions on the European continent, particularly through its increasing nuclear rhetoric.
Responding to the reported French-Polish nuclear drills, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated that they “show Europe’s aspiration for further militarization and nuclearization” and warned that such steps “do not contribute to stability and predictability on the European continent.”
Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Alexander Grushko also said on Thursday that NATO’s UK-led Joint Expedition Forces (JEF) has been practicing scenarios of a naval blockade and seizure of Russia’s Kaliningrad Region and is “deliberately pursuing a path of increasing confrontation.”
Meanwhile, the Finnish parliament took up a bill to allow the import and storage of nuclear weapons on the country’s territory. The move would overturn legal barriers that had banned such devices in the country since the 1980s.
Moscow has warned that any deployment of nuclear weapons in Finland would be a direct threat to Russia and would trigger retaliatory measures.
Speaking exclusively to RT on Thursday, Andrey Kartapolov, chairman of the State Duma Defense Committee, warned that Finnish lawmakers would be making a “big mistake” if they voted in favor of the bill. The arrival of foreign nuclear weapons in the Nordic country would significantly undermine its own security, according to the senior Russian MP.
The relevant military installations on Finnish soil would inevitably end up on Russian strategic forces’ priority target list, Kartapolov predicted.
Source: rt.com
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Auckland Mayor Wayne Brown refers to RNZ staffer as ‘a Muslim terrorist’
24 Apr 2026
Auckland Mayor Wayne Brown referred to an RNZ staff member of Indian descent as “a Muslim terrorist” and commented on his beard as the man escorted him into the building for an interview.
Brown said the comments were a “fumbled attempt at humour”.
RNZ said the man greeted Brown as he arrived at RNZ’s Auckland offices for an appearance on the Afternoons programme on Monday.
The staff member apologised to Brown for the wait, mentioning security being tight in the building, an RNZ spokesperson said.
“The Mayor responded with a comment along the lines of ‘security can’t be very tight if we’re being escorted by a Muslim terrorist’,” the RNZ spokesperson said.
“The Mayor also made a comment about the employee’s looks and said something like ‘gosh, look at your beard’.”
The man noted he must have looked shocked because the Mayor then said he was only joking, the spokesperson said.
The staff member, whom RNZ News agreed not to name, said he was shocked and hurt by the comments.
“I agree with the Mayor that his comments were inappropriate and disrespectful,” he said in a statement sent by RNZ’s communications team.
“I acknowledge his apology and hope this incident leads to reflection about the choice of language, and the danger of racial and religious stereotyping, especially by those in positions of leadership.”
RNZ’s chief people officer Sarah Neilson said the comment was not acceptable.
“RNZ’s immediate concern is for our colleague who was understandably hurt by the comments,” she said.
“At our workplace we want people to be treated with respect, including by our guests. The comment made to our employee was unacceptable whether it was made in jest or otherwise.”
The Mayor’s apology
The Mayor has sent the man an email apology.
It was requested he send it via an RNZ colleague and the organisation has released it.
“I am writing to apologise for the comment I made to you yesterday. It was inappropriate, and I take full responsibility for it.
“I understand that my words were disrespectful, and I regret the harm they caused. It was a fumbled attempt at humour which I admit I got wrong.
“On a personal note, I have a great deal of respect for the Sikh community in Auckland, and I am sorry that my comment fell short of that.”
The man is not Sikh. The Mayor was mistakenly told by his staff that the man was Sikh.
In response to questions from RNZ today, Brown sent a statement.
“I tend to use humour in all interactions but acknowledge I got this one wrong,” he said.
“When I was made aware of this, I immediately sent an apology to [the man]. I have always made it clear that I have great respect and admiration for our Muslim, Sikh and Indian communities here in Auckland, and I will continue to be a Mayor who represents every Aucklander.”
Source: newstalkzb.co.nz
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Police launch investigation as graffiti sprayed across Manchester city centre mosque
Ramazani Mwamba
23 Apr 2026
Police have been called to a Mosque in Manchester after vile graffiti was daubed on the walls outside in the early hours of this morning (April 23).
Emergency services attended the Manchester Islamic Centre, on Sydney Street, at around 1.35am. Officers from Greater Manchester Police have now launched an investigation into the incident.
Words had been sprayed in black along an outside wall of the building. As of yet, no arrests have been made.
Manchester Islamic Centre has been the subject of attacks and protests in the past. Campaigners allege the centre has links to the heavily-criticised Iranian regime, although staff deny this.
An imam of the centre Seyed Avaei told the Manchester Evening News they do not ‘interfere in political issues'. He added that the mosque had no links to the Iranian government.
In 2023, activists staged a sit-in, which started on December 6. They described it as the ‘next step’ after a petition for the closure of the centre reached over 35,000 signatures with no response from government officials or bosses at the centre.
Following the graffiti incident in the early hours of Thursday, a spokesperson for GMP said: "Officers were called to an address on Sydney Street, Manchester at around 1.35am this morning following reports of criminal damage.
"No arrests have been made at this time, and enquiries are ongoing."
Source: manchestereveningnews.co.uk
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London landlords illegally advertise 'Muslim-only' apartment rentals
Roberto Wakerell-Cruz
04/23/2026
Rental listings specifying “Muslim only” tenants have been posted across London, according to an investigation, in breach of UK law. The ads appeared on multiple platforms and agency sites, and some were blunt in how they described who could apply.
The Equality Act 2010 prohibits discrimination on the basis of religion, race, gender, and other protected characteristics. Landlords and letting agents are generally not allowed to restrict tenants by these criteria, except in limited circumstances such as shared accommodation within a private home, reports GB News.
Across sites including Facebook, Gumtree, and Telegram, listings requested “Muslim boys,” “Muslim girls,” or Punjabi speakers. Some also specified Gujarati speakers or people from Kerala and Haryana. On the website of Roshan Properties, ads promoted rentals for “two Muslim boys” or “two Muslim girls.”
The listings were identified in multiple boroughs, including Ilford, Dagenham, and Harrow. Ilford has a significant Muslim population, with around 41 percent of residents identifying as Muslim, totaling 45,757 people.
Ezoic
In some cases, landlords sneak in preferences through lifestyle descriptions, such as “alcohol and smoke-free” homes. While property owners can outline certain living conditions or dietary needs, the law does not permit selecting tenants based on religion or ethnicity.
There is some legal allowance for individuals renting rooms in shared accommodation to express preferences, but this does not extend broadly to all rental listings. Violations of discrimination laws can result in civil action.
Under the Renters' Rights Act, local authorities can issue fines of up to £7,000 for discrimination, including on religious or racial grounds. Repeat violations may result in additional penalties, with fines potentially doubling.
Reform UK Treasury spokesman Robert Jenrick criticized the listings. “It goes without saying that there would be a national outrage if the tables were turned,” he told The Telegraph. He added that all forms of racism are “unacceptable” and said no religious group should receive a “special exemption to discriminate.”
Ezoic
Rental site Gumtree's spokesman said: "Gumtree has clear policies in place that prohibit unlawful discrimination, and we take reports of inappropriate listings very seriously: "The ads referenced appear to relate to private rooms within shared homes, where existing occupants may express preferences about who they live with. This is different from renting an entire property, which is subject to stricter rules under the Equality Act.
"However, we expect all users to advertise responsibly and inclusively. We actively monitor listings and have tools in place for users to report content they believe breaches our policies, which we actively review and will take action on where appropriate. We are continuing to review listings in this area to ensure they meet both our guidelines and legal requirements."
Source: humanevents.com
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Man screams racist abuse through door of Liverpool mosque
Wesley Holmes
23 Apr 2026
A man screamed death threats and racist abuse through the open door of Britain's oldest mosque. The man was caught on camera in the reception area of the Abdullah Quilliam Society on West Derby Road, clapping his hands and shouting racial slurs.
Shocking video footage of the incident, which took place at the mosque at around 7pm yesterday, Wednesday April 22, was circulated on social media. In it, a white man wearing a dark blue coat, green cap and jeans can be heard spewing racial slurs while standing in a doorway. A sign that reads "Thank you for visiting Britain's oldest mosque" can be seen beside him.
Merseyside Police confirmed a 58-year-old man had been arrested in connection with the incident. A spokesman said: "It was reported that a man entered the reception area of Abdullah Quilliam Society, on West Derby Road. He shouted racist abuse and made threats before leaving a few minutes later.
"Officers attended the scene and a 58-year-old man from Liverpool was arrested nearby on suspicion of three counts of racially aggravated public order offences and two counts of using threatening/abusive/insulting words to cause harassment/alarm/distress. He remains in police custody.
"No one was harmed during the incident, but those present were understandably left distressed."
The force said it would be stepping up patrols in the Kensington area today, April 23, and over the coming days to offer reassurance for the local community.
Adam Kelwick, Imam at the Abdullah Quilliam Society, said: "I was in the mosque yesterday but I had no idea that this had happened until somebody sent the video to me.
"Obviously it's going to be worrying people not just in Liverpool but around the country. I have even seen it shared on international forums.
"However my approach is often different to other people and I'd love to find out who the guy was and arrange a sit-down with him and find out what is going on. We shouldn't rush to judgement.
"That doesn't discount that a lot of people are going to be worried when someone comes to the Mosque shouting racial slurs. There's no excuse for that. But one potential outcome for this is maybe there is an opportunity to flip something that has scared people into something that can inspire people."
Anyone with information about the incident at the Abdullah Quilliam Society is asked to contact Merseyside Police social media desk via X @MerPolCC.
You can also call 101 quoting log number 855 of April 22, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously, on 0800 555 111, or via their online form at: https://crimestoppers-uk.org/give-information/give-information.
Liverpool neighbourhood chief inspector Andy Fielding said: “This would have been extremely distressing for those who witnessed the incident and heard his appalling abuse.
“A suspect was arrested a matter of minutes after the incident was reported and I hope this shows our communities how seriously we take all reports of hate crimes.
“There will be high visibility patrols in the area this morning and the coming days to offer reassurance to the community. If you have any concerns, please speak to one of our officers.
“Threatening or racially abusing someone simply because of their ethnicity or religion is truly abhorrent and has absolutely no place in Merseyside.
“Violence and hate crime will never be tolerated in our communities. Merseyside Police has dedicated Hate Crime Co-ordinators and this particular incident is being investigated by specially trained officers. The teams monitor, assess, and investigate hate crimes across Merseyside, ensuring that victims are supported throughout the process, and do all in our power to ensure that offenders are put before the courts.
“We will continue to work closely alongside community organisations, including faith leaders, and would encourage anyone who has experienced or witnessed hate crime to come forward and contact us.”
If, for any reason, you do not wish to report a hate crime to the police, the independent charity Stop Hate UK to run a 24/7 confidential helpline for all victims of hate crime on 0800 138 1625 or www.stophateuk.org. You can also download the Stop Hate UK reporting app on Google Play or the Apple App Store. We can also report hate crime via:
Source: liverpoolecho.co.uk
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Fake AI videos depict large crowds of Muslims praying in London streets
23 April 2026
Fake videos which appear to show Muslims praying in the middle of London streets have been gaining traction online.
The clips, which have been shared on Facebook, also feature audio in the background that sounds like someone saying “Allahu Akbar” on a loudspeaker.
The videos have generated hundreds of negative comments from people who seem to believe they are real.
But they aren’t genuine, and have been created with artificial intelligence (AI).
We found that each of the four videos contains SynthID, an invisible watermark added to content created or edited with Google’s AI tools, in both their visuals and the audio.
While the presence of a watermark can't tell us whether AI was used to completely generate something new or modify existing content, other clues suggest these videos were almost certainly wholly generated with AI.
Text on the shopfronts and buses is garbled and some of the flags distort throughout the video. People and vehicles also regularly glitch.
Before sharing content like this which you might come across on social media, it’s important to consider whether it comes from a reliable and trustworthy source. Our Full Fact toolkit contains guides and tips on how to spot whether something might be AI generated.
Source: fullfact.org
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'Deadlock over': EU unlocks $105bn loan for Ukraine, slaps new sanctions on Russia
Apr 23, 2026
The European Union on Thursday gave final approval to a €90 billion ($105 billion) loan for Ukraine and a new round of sanctions against Russia, ending a prolonged standoff that had held up EU support for Kyiv.The measures were signed off after Hungary and Slovakia dropped their objections following the resumption of oil flows through the damaged Druzhba pipeline, which supplies Russian crude to both countries.
"Deadlock over," EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas posted online. "Russia's war economy is under growing strain, while Ukraine is getting a major boost."
Loan details
The €90 billion loan, intended to cover Ukraine's financial needs for 2026-2027, will have two-thirds allocated to defence and the remainder to budgetary support. The first tranche is expected by May or June, according to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy."The funds from the European package will be directed, among other priorities, to arms production, the procurement of necessary weapons from partners that we do not yet produce in Ukraine, and the preparation of our energy sector and critical infrastructure for the next winter," Zelenskyy said.
Hungary, Slovakia and the Czech Republic have opted out of contributing to the loan.
Sanctions package
The 20th package of EU sanctions against Moscow targets Russia's energy, banking and trade sectors. It also expands restrictions on Russia's so-called "shadow fleet" of ageing tankers used to circumvent oil export restrictions, and includes curbs on Russian cryptocurrency traders.
"While Russia doubles down on its aggression, we are doubling down on our support to the brave Ukrainian nation," European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said.
Political context
The row had held up EU support for Ukraine at a time when the United States has largely cut Kyiv off and eased sanctions on Russian oil amid the Iran war.
Hungary's outgoing Prime Minister Viktor Orban — who suffered a crushing election defeat this month — had stalled the loan as leverage to get Ukraine to repair the pipeline carrying Russian oil to his landlocked country.
Slovakia and Hungary confirmed earlier Thursday that they had again begun receiving oil via the Druzhba pipeline after repairs were completed.
Zelenskyy hailed the decision as "an important day for our defence and our relations with the European Union."
"This package will strengthen our army, make Ukraine more resilient, and enable us to fulfil our social obligations to Ukrainians," he said.
Source: indiatimes.com
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https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/europe/eu-signs-off-on-ukraine-loan-new-russia-sanctions/articleshowprint/130469349.cms
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North America
Trump tells BBC that King's visit could 'absolutely' help repair relations with UK
April 24, 2026
Sarah Smith
US President Donald Trump has said next week's state visit from King Charles III and Queen Camilla could help repair relations with the UK.
When asked in a phone interview with the BBC whether the visit could help repair the relationship, Trump said: "Absolutely. He's fantastic. He's a fantastic man. Absolutely the answer is yes."
"I know him well, I've known him for years," he said. "He's a brave man, and he's a great man. They would absolutely be a positive."
The president also spoke about his relationship with UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, who he said could only "recover" if he changed course on immigration.
The King and Queen will travel to the US for a four-day visit beginning on Monday, and will meet with Trump at the White House.
The King will have a private meeting with the president and also deliver an address to Congress.
After two days in Washington DC, they will travel to New York, Virginia and Bermuda before returning to the UK.
The Foreign Office said the trip would mark the 250th anniversary of US independence, and would celebrate a partnership of "shared prosperity, security and history".
In the five-minute interview on Thursday, Trump was also asked about his relationship with Sir Keir.
The two leaders have appeared at odds over the war in Iran, and the prime minister has faced mounting pressure over his decision to appoint Lord Mandelson as UK ambassador to the US.
In a post on Truth Social on Monday, Trump said Lord Mandelson was "a really bad pick" but the prime minister had "plenty of time to recover".
When asked what he meant by that post, Trump said: "If he opened the North Sea and if his immigration policies became strong, which right now they're not, he can recover, but if he doesn't, I don't think he has a chance."
Trump has repeatedly called on the UK to increase oil and gas extraction in the North Sea.
"I make my decisions based on what's in the British national interest and not what other people say or do," Sir Keir said while talking to broadcasters about the president's comments on Thursday.
"That is why I took the decision that we would not be dragged into the war in Iran," he said. "I'm not going to be diverted or deflected from that by what anybody else says."
Trump has also criticised the UK government and other allies over their response to the Iran war. He has said he is "not happy" with the level of support offered by the UK, while Sir Keir has repeatedly said the country will not be drawn into a wider conflict.
When the president was asked why he needed allies such as the UK to get involved, he told the BBC: "I didn't need them at all but they should've been there. I didn't need them, obviously."
"We've wiped Iran's military out," he added. "I didn't need anybody."
"I wanted to see whether or not they would be involved," Trump said, describing his calls for support from allies as "more of a test".
Trump was also asked whether his threat, made earlier this month, that "a whole civilisation will die tonight" unless Iran agreed to a deal was about nuclear weapons. The comment was widely condemned, including by the Pope, the head of the UN and Sir Keir.
"The other side is dying to make a deal," Trump said. "So whatever I'm saying or whatever I'm doing, it seems to be working very well."
Towards the end of the phone interview, the president also referenced his multi-billion dollar defamation lawsuit against the BBC.
He is suing over the way a Panorama documentary edited together different sections of a speech he gave before the Capitol riot on 6 January 2021.
Trump said the BBC had to be "very careful" or it could "destroy" its reputation.
The BBC has previously apologised to Trump over the Panorama edit, but rejected his demands for compensation. It has said there is no basis for a defamation claim and filed to dismiss the lawsuit.
"We have said throughout we will robustly defend the case against us," a BBC spokesperson said on Thursday.
Later on Thursday, Trump threatened to hit the UK with a new tariff if it did not drop its 2% digital services tax on big US technology firms.
"We've been looking at it and we can meet that very easily by just putting a big tariff on the UK, so they better be careful," he told reporters in the Oval Office.
Source: bbc.com
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cx2wdegnzzjo
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50+ Maryland Constituents Join Record-Breaking 1,000+ Muslim Americans at USCMO’s Annual Muslim Hill Day on Capitol Hill
April 23, 2026
The Maryland office of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today recognized the more than 50 Muslim leaders from across Maryland who joined a record-breaking national delegation of over 1,000 Muslim Americans at the 11th Annual National Muslim Advocacy Day on Capitol Hill, organized by the U.S. Council of Muslim Organizations (USCMO).
This year marked the largest Muslim Hill Day in history, with delegates from 33 states participating in more than 260 meetings with members of Congress and their staff over two days of coordinated advocacy, in addition to dozens of drop-by meetings.
The Maryland delegation held meetings with all ten offices in the state’s congressional delegation, including direct meetings with U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Representatives Kweisi Mfume, Jamie Raskin, and Glenn Ivey, along with staff from the remaining six congressional offices.
Maryland delegates advanced a shared policy agenda focused on civil rights, combating Islamophobia, protecting free speech, and promoting just and accountable U.S. foreign policy.
The national theme of this year’s advocacy day –“Dismantling Islamophobia, Demanding Accountability, and Fighting for Justice” – consisted of a focused policy agenda included urging members of Congress to:
Oppose Anti-Muslim Caucuses and Legislation: Reject the so-called “Sharia-Free America Caucus” and its discriminatory bills (H.R. 5722 / S. 3009, H.R. 5512 / S. 3008, H.R. 7611), which manufacture fear and legitimize anti-Muslim bigotry under the guise of national security. Support a congressional letter opposing this unconstitutional targeting of Islamic religious practice.
Demand an End to Endless Wars and the “Israel First” Agenda: Congress must stop rubber-stamping foreign agendas while American families struggle at home. Cut off taxpayer funding enabling genocide in Gaza, oppose reckless escalation toward war with Iran, and address atrocities in Sudan. Support War Powers efforts and reclaim Congress’s constitutional authority over war.
Defend Free Speech and Immigration Rights: Free speech is not terrorism, and activism is not grounds for detention, deportation, or IRS retaliation. Congress must end the weaponization of immigration law and tax authority against activists and nonprofits and reject efforts to silence dissent through abuse of power.
In addition to congressional advocacy, Muslim Hill Day included high-profile public actions addressing civil rights and political repression.
“This record-breaking turnout reflects the growing civic engagement of Muslim communities in our state and across the country,” said CAIR’s Maryland Director Zainab Chaudry. “People recognize the urgency of this moment and our collective responsibility to rise and meet it. The Maryland delegation – including representatives from CAIR, CAIR Action Maryland, ICNA, MUNA and many united sister organizations – showed up organized, informed, and prepared to ensure that our priorities are heard in the halls of Congress. These meetings are the beginning of sustained advocacy, and reflect a broader commitment to justice, dignity and humanity.”
In addition to congressional meetings, delegates participated in advocacy trainings and press events, reinforcing a coordinated, nationwide effort to strengthen Muslim civic participation and policy influence.
This event was one of the largest Muslim advocacy efforts ever held on Capitol Hill.
CAIR’s mission is to protect civil rights, enhance understanding of Islam, promote justice, and empower American Muslims.
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/50-maryland-constituents-join-record-breaking-1000-muslim-americans-at-uscmos-annual-muslim-hill-day-on-capitol-hill/
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US soldier charged after winning $400,000 betting on removal of Maduro
April 24, 2026
Nardine Saad
A US special forces soldier involved in the military operation that captured Nicolas Maduro has been arrested after he allegedly bet on the removal of Venezuela's former leader before the information was publicly available.
The US Department of Justice (DOJ) has charged Gannon Ken Van Dyke after he allegedly made trades on Polymarket, a crypto-powered platform, on the basis of classified information.
"That is clear insider trading and is illegal under federal law," justice department officials said.
Van Dyke, an active-duty soldier in the US Army stationed at Fort Bragg in North Carolina, won more than $409,000 (£303,702) as a result of his bets.
US forces seized Maduro and his wife Cilia Flores from their compound in Caracas in a dramatic, night-time raid on 3 January, and brought them to New York to face allegations of weapon and drug offences, which they deny.
Van Dyke allegedly placed bets on the timing and outcome of the operation, known as Operation Absolute Resolve, "all to turn a profit", the justice department said in a statement on Thursday.
The DOJ alleges that on or about 26 December 2025, Van Dyke created a Polymarket account and began trading on Maduro and Venezuela-related markets. He is accused of making bets of more than $33,000 (£24,500) while in possession of classified nonpublic information about Operation Absolute Resolve.
In a statement posted on social media on Thursday, Polymarket said: "When we identified a user trading on classified government information, we referred the matter to the DOJ & cooperated with their investigation."
The company added: "Insider trading has no place on Polymarket. Today's arrest is proof the system works."
Van Dyke has been charged with unlawful use of confidential government information for personal gain, theft of nonpublic government information, commodities fraud, wire fraud and making an unlawful monetary transaction, according to an indictment unsealed on Thursday.
"Our men and women in uniform are trusted with classified information in order to accomplish their mission as safely and effectively as possible, and are prohibited from using this highly sensitive information for personal financial gain," said acting US Attorney General Todd Blanche.
"Widespread access to prediction markets is a relatively new phenomenon, but federal laws protecting national security information fully apply."
US Attorney Jay Clayton for the Southern District of New York, where the case will proceed, added that prediction markets "are not a haven for using misappropriated confidential or classified information for personal gain".
The justice department officials said that as a soldier Van Dyke signed nondisclosure agreements in which he promised to "'never divulge, publish, or reveal by writing, words, conduct, or otherwise . . . any classified or sensitive information' relating to military operations".
Federal prosecutors allege that starting from 8 December 2025 until at least 6 January 2026, Van Dyke was involved in the planning and execution of Operation Absolute Resolve and had access to sensitive, nonpublic, classified information about that operation.
The Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC), an independent US federal agency, said it had also filed a complaint against Van Dyke accusing him of engaging in insider trading.
Asked about the alleged betting during an unrelated event on Thursday, US President Donald Trump said he had not heard about it but would look into it.
When asked about concerns that prediction markets could lead to insider trading, the president said he is "not happy with any of that stuff".
"The whole world, unfortunately, has become somewhat of a casino, and you look at what's going on all over the world, in Europe and every place, they're doing these betting things," he said. "I was never much in favour of it."
Source: bbc.com
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https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c20832yg5p2o
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US special forces soldier arrested for betting on Venezuela raid
24 Apr, 2026
A US Army Green Beret has been arrested on charges that he used classified information from the operation to kidnap Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro to place high-stakes bets on prediction markets already rocked by billions of dollars in suspiciously timed wagers during the US-Israeli war on Iran.
Prosecutors say Master Sgt. Gannon Ken Van Dyke wagered some $32,000 on Polymarket and pocketed more than $400,000 by betting on Maduro’s removal from power, using insider knowledge from his role in planning and executing the January raid.
According to the Justice Department, Van Dyke faces charges including wire fraud, commodities fraud, and unlawful use of government information. The Commodity Futures Trading Commission filed a parallel complaint, while Polymarket said it flagged the suspicious activity itself and cooperated with investigators.
The case is now fueling broader scrutiny of prediction markets that turned war and regime-change operations into tradable contracts, with Venezuela being only the beginning.
During the US-Israeli war on Iran, prediction and traditional financial markets saw a flood of suspiciously well-timed bets tied to airstrikes, ceasefires, unexpected statements, and diplomatic twists.
Traders placed more than $1 billion in “perfectly timed” wagers, including an $850,000 bet just before US strikes on Iran and roughly $950 million in oil futures hours before US President Donald Trump announced a ceasefire, according to The Guardian. That announcement alone generated more than 413 million bets and over $100 million in wagers across prediction markets in just a few days, according to AP.
Scrutiny has also fallen on the Trump family’s links to the industry over potential conflicts of interest. The New York Times reported in January that Donald Trump Jr. had advisory ties to Polymarket and rival firm Kalshi, and had an investment in the former through his venture firm, 1789 Capital.
The White House warned staff against using insider information on March 24, a day after Trump ordered the first five-day pause in planned strikes on Iranian power plants and energy infrastructure.
Trump himself downplayed the betting frenzy on Thursday, saying he was “not happy with any of that stuff” but adding that “the whole world, unfortunately, has become somewhat of a casino.”
Source: rt.com
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://www.rt.com/news/638994-us-soldier-arrested-war-bets/
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Trump would like to see Putin at G20 in Miami
24 Apr, 2026
US President Donald Trump has said that he would like to see his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin at the G20 summit in Miami, but expressed doubt that he would actually come.
The Washington Post reported on Thursday that the White House intends to invite Putin to the G20 summit in December, while a senior administration official said Russia would be welcome at both ministerial meetings and the leaders’ summit.
Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Aleksandr Pankin said there was already an invitation for Russia to participate “at the highest level,” but it is too early to say who will attend. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov likewise said Moscow will decide closer to the date who will represent Russia.
Trump said he knew nothing about any official invitation yet, but added that “if he came, it would be probably very helpful.”
“I’m of the opinion that you talk to everybody. I’m not one of these guys who [says] ‘Oh, let’s not talk to him,’” Trump told reporters at the White House on Thursday. “If you’re a smart person, if you have control over your emotions… I’m somebody that believes in talking.”
“I don’t know that he’s coming. I doubt he’d come, to be honest with you,” he added.
The summit is scheduled for December 14-15 in Miami, with Trump set to host it at his Doral golf resort. Putin has not attended a G20 summit in person since 2019, initially because of the pandemic and later amid the fallout from the escalation of the Ukraine conflict in 2022.
Trump also reiterated that Russia’s exclusion from what used to be the G8 in 2014 was “a stupid thing to do.” According to him, the G7 leaders now spend much of their time discussing Russia anyway, and he suggested that the conflict with Kiev might not have escalated the way it did if Moscow had remained in the format.
Moscow, however, has little interest in the old G8 logic Trump keeps invoking. Peskov previously said the G8 “has lost its relevance” for Russia, while the G7 looks “bleak” and “ineffective” compared to the G20. He has also argued that the G7 no longer reflects the real balance of the global economy, whereas the G20 includes the major growth centers and “better reflects the economic locomotives of the world.”
Source: rt.com
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https://www.rt.com/news/638991-trump-putin-miami-g20/
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Africa
Troops Repel Midnight Attack In Yobe, Kill 24 Terrorists
April 24, 2026
Troops of Operation Hadin Kai have repelled a midnight attack by suspected insurgents in Kukareta, Yobe State, killing 24 of the attackers during a fierce gun battle.
Naija News reports that the attack, which occurred in the early hours of Thursday, lasted for about three hours as the assailants attempted to overrun a military formation in the area.
The Media Information Officer of the Joint Task Force, North-East Operation Hadin Kai, Lt. Col. Sani Uba, confirmed the development in a statement.
Uba said the troops responded swiftly to the assault, which began shortly after midnight and continued until about 3 am.
He said, “Troops of Operation Hadin Kai under Sector 2 successfully repelled a determined terrorist attack on the Kukareta location.”
According to him, the troops mounted a coordinated offensive and defensive response, forcing the attackers to retreat.
He added that 24 insurgents were killed during the encounter. Uba disclosed that troops recovered a large cache of arms and ammunition from the scene.
Items recovered include 18 AK-47 rifles, three general-purpose machine guns, two PKT anti-aircraft guns, three rocket-propelled grenade tubes, two mortar tubes, four hand grenades, and 18 AK-47 magazines.
The military spokesperson said two soldiers sustained injuries during the exchange of fire but have since been stabilised.
He also noted that an armoured vehicle was damaged in the attack.
Source: naijanews.com
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://www.naijanews.com/2026/04/24/troops-repel-midnight-attack-in-yobe-kill-24-terrorists/
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First Lady, Hamzat inaugurate Odo Noforija central mosque
by Tajudeen Adebanjo
April 23, 2026
The First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, and Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, have opened the Odo Noforija Kingdom Ultra-Modern Central Mosque in Epe.
The mosque was built by the monarch of the Odo Noforija Kingdom, Oba Babatunde Ogunlaja, and Chief Executive Officer of Al Hujaaj International Umrah and Hajj Services Limited, Alhaji Abdul Jelili Animashaun.
The mosque features a striking minaret, a dome adorned with Arabic inscriptions, and a spacious prayer hall with separate sections for male and female worshippers. It is designed to accommodate large congregations during Jumu’ah prayers and other Islamic gatherings.
Hamzat commended those who sponsored the mosque project, especially the monarch and Alhaji Animashaun, describing their collaboration as a demonstration of religious harmony.
He noted that building a mosque attracts divine reward and praised the spirit of unity behind the project.
The Deputy Governor conveyed the message of the First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, who was represented by the Special Assistant on Public Affairs and Strategy, Wale Alawiye-King, saying the First Lady expressed joy over the positive developments in Epe and prayed for continued progress in the community.
He called on Nigerians to pray for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to sustain peace, stability, and accelerated development in the country.
Former Minister of Works Babatunde Fashola SAN described the mosque as a powerful symbol of interfaith harmony.
He said, “We have not just come to dedicate a mosque; we have come to send a message of harmony of faith. The collaboration between Christians and Muslims in building the Mosque shows that religious diversity can strengthen society. When the world misunderstands us, some of the best among us can come together and say we are not like that.”
Mr. Fashola revealed that the foundation for the mosque project was unknowingly laid during a memorial gathering held at his residence on August 5, 2023, in honour of his late father. He said his presence at the opening further strengthened the project’s symbolic message of unity.
He recalled historical examples of interfaith cooperation in Nigeria, citing the late Chief MKO Abiola, who he said contributed significantly to the building of a Catholic church despite being a Muslim.
Etsu Nupe and Chairman of the Niger State Council of Traditional Rulers, Dr Yahaya Abubakar, praised the Mosque project as a symbol of the long history of peaceful coexistence between Muslims and Christians in Odo Noforija Kingdom.
He said the decision to provide the kingdom with a befitting Central Mosque after the demolition of the old mosque is a testament to the monarch’s commitment to equity and inclusive leadership.
“The new Central Mosque is a consolidation of the peaceful coexistence between the Islamic and Christian religions in the Kingdom.”
Etsu Nupe, who chaired the occasion, praised Oba Ogunlaja for his inclusive leadership and prayed that Allah reward him for building a befitting place of worship.
Alawiye-King, who represented the First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, formally commissioned the Mosque alongside the Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Dr. Hamzat, with other dignitaries, including the major donors to the mosque project.
Former Chairman of the Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC), Dr. AbdulHakeem AbdulLateef, stressed the importance of gratitude and contentment, urging Muslims to reflect deeply on Allah’s blessings.
He said, “If you think those engaged in religion are doing too much, then look at yourself in the mirror and reflect on the countless blessings Allah has given you.”
Dr. AbdulLateef, the former Lagos State Commissioner for Home Affairs, explained that the gift of life and abilities are divine blessings that cannot be purchased, saying believers must constantly show appreciation to Allah for sight, speech, health, and every aspect of existence.
Source: thenationonlineng.net
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https://thenationonlineng.net/first-lady-hamzat-inaugurate-odo-noforija-central-mosque/
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Deloitte chief urges Nigerians to embrace institutional growth
April 24, 2026
The Chief Executive Officer of Deloitte West Africa, Mr. Fatai Folarin, has called on the Nigerians to adopt a more deliberate, disciplined, and purposeful approach to building institutions and economic prosperity, saying sustainable success comes from collective productivity and long-term vision.
He made the call during the 22nd Annual Public Lecture and Luncheon of the University of Ife Muslim Graduates Association (UNIFEMGA), Lagos State chapter, at Sheraton Hotel, Ikeja.
The event, under the chairmanship of Mr Niyi Yusuf, Chairman of the Nigerian Economic Summit Group, was themed “Prosperity with Purpose: How MSMEs Can Thrive Under the New Tax Law.”
Folarin said prosperity should be measured not by individual accumulation but by the ability to build strong institutions that outlive their founders, stressing that many communities, including the Muslim Ummah, still under-utilise their collective economic strength.
“For me, prosperity is to see institutions grow and to leave them bigger than what they are,” he said.
He expressed concern that the Muslim community in Nigeria has not fully embraced intentional economic collaboration and institution-building, urging stakeholders to move from fragmentation to coordinated growth and enterprise expansion.
According to him, small and medium-scale enterprises (MSMEs) are critical to Nigeria’s economy, contributing about 48 percent of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and employing around 84 percent of the workforce, yet many remain constrained by limited vision and scale.
He urged entrepreneurs to stop viewing MSMEs as a permanent status, describing small business as a starting point that should evolve into larger, scalable enterprises.
Source: thenationonlineng.net
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://thenationonlineng.net/deloitte-chief-urges-nigerians-to-embrace-institutional-growth/
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Foundation engages Plateau Muslim community on interfaith harmony
April 24, 2026
The Gideon and Funmi ParaMallam Peace Foundation has stepped up peacebuilding initiatives in Plateau State in the aftermath of recent gunmen attacks that left over 28 persons dead in Angwa Rukuba community, Jos North LGA.
On Monday, a delegation from the Foundation, led by its Chief Executive Officer, Dr Gideon ParaMallam, visited the Jos Central Mosque to meet with Muslim victims of the violence.
The team also held discussions with Muslim leaders, officials of the Jama’atu Nasril Islam political office holders and other stakeholders who converged on the mosque to welcome the delegation and collaborate on strategies to strengthen the peace process in the state.
Also present at the meeting was the Chief Imam of the Jos Central Mosque, Imam Ghazali Isma’ila Adam.
During the engagement, ParaMallam conveyed sympathy to the Muslim community over the crisis that affected its members, underscoring the importance of peaceful coexistence and the need for Christians and Muslims to work together to secure lasting peace in the state.
Speaking in an interview, ParaMallam said:
“We need to be able to co-exist peacefully between Christians and Muslims in Nigeria. It’s a fact that there are Christians in this country, there are also Muslims in this country.
“We need to work together. It’s not going to be easy. It’s tough, but we will continue to try until we learn to live together in peace. So the ultimate objective is to see a Plateau State that is peaceful, and as the Chief Imam said, Plateau State is known as the home of peace and tourism.
“We need to wake up and walk together, both Christians and Muslims alike, to let Plateau State regain its past glory as the most peaceful state in Nigeria. But as I said, our objective goes beyond Plateau to every part of Nigeria. We can not continue to live like this and under the atmosphere of violence and tension all the time as a nation and as a people.
“And I also believe that we all have to work collectively to attain peace in this country, but while we do our part as citizens. The government must do its part as a government to ensure that citizens are protected and saved from those who kill them with reckless abandon,” ParaMallam said.
In his remarks, the Chief Imam thanked the foundation for the visit and called for targeted government actions to address youth-related challenges and to consolidate ongoing peace efforts.
“There is a need for the government to create vocational centres to be able to deal with the issue of drug addicts, especially among the youth.
“We are going to continue to live in peace in Plateau and Nigeria at large,” the Chief Imam vowed.
He further stated: “We want to appreciate Mr. President and the state governor for the prompt response to the crisis. The response of the governor at the state and federal governments was superb.
“We appeal to the government to consider reviewing the curfew and further relaxing the curfew in view of the good conduct. We desire peace.
“We also want to appeal for the government to build on the peace efforts of the foundation so as to consolidate peace in the communities. Your efforts will not be in vain,” the Chief Imam stressed in an interview.
The Foundation later announced the donation of some relief materials to the crisis victims and noted that its outreach to the Muslim community forms part of broader interventions designed to promote dialogue, rebuild trust, and prevent further violence in communities affected by recurring attacks across Plateau State.
Our correspondent reports that the peace foundation had last week visited the Christian victims at the Angwa Rukuba community where the Chief Executive Officer and his team sympathised with the victims and encouraged them to sustain the peace in their communities.
Source: punchng.com
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https://punchng.com/foundation-engages-plateau-muslim-community-on-interfaith-harmony/
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Benin confirms Wadagni's presidential vote win
April 24, 2026
Benin's finance minister Romuald Wadagni was officially confirmed to have won the west African country's presidential election, according to final results on Thursday.
The Constitutional Court confirmed the provisional tally announced last week, which gave outgoing president Patrice Talon's hand-picked successor a landslide win.
Many observers believe that the outcome of the April 12 vote was a foregone conclusion.
Teacher and former minister Paul Hounkpe was the only opposition candidate, while the main opposition party, The Democrats, was unable to take part due to an insufficient number of sponsorships.
"The court hereby definitively declares Mr. Kossi Mbueke Romuald Wadagni elected president of the Republic, and Ms. Mariam Chabi Talata vice president," the president of the Constitutional Court, Cossi Dorothe Sossa, announced at the institution's headquarters.
Wadagni will take office on Sunday, May 24, Sossa added.
According to him, the court "has not identified on its own any irregularity of a nature to warrant the annulment of the electoral process" and has recorded no challenges to the provisional results.
He did not give Wadagni's final tally or voter turnout figures, which the provisional results had reported at 94 and 58.8 percent respectively.
Hounkpe, who took just under six percent, conceded defeat before the results were out.
Under Wadagni's 10-year stint as finance minister, Benin's public finances have been cleaned up and the deficit cut by a third to reach three percent of GDP.
He embodies continuity with the Talon era, which has seen the country enjoy rapid economic growth, an expansion in tourism and the completion of numerous infrastructure projects.
He nonetheless faces major challenges, including a huge wealth gap and insecurity in the north due to attacks blamed on jihadist groups.
Source: africanews.com
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://www.africanews.com/2026/04/23/benin-confirms-wadagnis-presidential-vote-win/
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President Ruto Reacts To Tinubu Over ‘Listen To Them In Kenya’ Comment, Mocks Nigeria’s English
April 24, 2026
A diplomatic row has emerged between Nigeria’s President Bola Tinubu and Kenya’s President William Ruto over their contrasting views on Africa’s economic realities.
The controversy began when Tinubu, during a working visit to Bayelsa State, defended his administration’s economic reforms despite growing concerns over rising fuel prices and the cost of living.
Speaking at the inauguration of key infrastructure projects, the President urged Nigerians to remain optimistic, stating that the country was better off than some of its African counterparts.
“It is very important that we are honest with our people. Yes, I hear you from various angles of the economy. The fuel price is biting hard, but look around, let us thank God together, that you are better off,” Tinubu said.
He added, “Listen to them in Kenya and other African countries and what they are going through. We will not look back. We will continue to find way to ameliorate the sufferings of the vulnerable.”
Naija News reports that the Kenyan leader has since criticised Nigeria’s economy and made controversial remarks about its English usage.
The exchange has since generated widespread reactions, particularly on social media, as citizens weigh in on the comments by both leaders.
Ruto Fires Back
Responding in a now-viral video, Ruto rejected Tinubu’s comparison, highlighting Nigeria’s infrastructure challenges, particularly its persistent electricity supply issues.
He also took a swipe at Nigeria’s English usage, using humour to underscore his point.
“Our education is good. Our English is good. We speak the best English in the world. If you listen to a Nigerian speak English, you’ll need a translator. We have the best human capital anywhere in the world,” Ruto said.
The exchange comes at a time when many African countries, including Nigeria and Kenya, are facing economic strain.
Rising fuel prices, inflation, and currency instability have been linked to global supply disruptions, partly driven by tensions in the Middle East and uncertainties surrounding the Strait of Hormuz, a key route for global oil shipments.
Despite being one of Africa’s largest oil producers, Nigeria continues to grapple with erratic electricity supply and economic volatility.
Kenya, meanwhile, has positioned itself as a regional hub for finance and technology but is also dealing with rising public debt and cost-of-living pressures.
Meanwhile, Ruto met earlier with renowned Nigerian billionaire businessman and founder of the Dangote Group, Africa’s leading industrialist, Aliko Dangote, on the sidelines of the Africa We Build Summit in Nairobi, showing interest in cement and sugar manufacturing and oil refining.
Sharing an excerpt from the meeting on his 𝕏 account, President Ruto acknowledged that African industrialists and entrepreneurs are key drivers of economic growth and innovation across sectors, including manufacturing, industrialisation, banking, and technology.
“As a result, they are crucial partners with governments in transforming our countries, especially in investment and employment creation. We welcome his announcement at the summit that he was ready to partner with Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania in building an oil refinery in Tanga, Tanzania. We thank Mr Dangote for believing in Africa and are committed to working with him to make this very important regional project a reality,” he said.
Source: naijanews.com
Please click the following URL to read the text of the original Story
https://www.naijanews.com/2026/04/24/ruto-tinubu-listen-to-them-in-kenya-nigeria/
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‘There Is No Regret Saying I’m Involved’ – Ningi Blames Political Leaders Over Worsening Insecurity
April 24, 2026
Senator representing Bauchi Central, Abdul Ningi, has blamed political leaders’ involvement in excessive politicking for the worsening insecurity in Nigeria.
Naija News reports that Ningi, during an interview on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Thursday, said political leaders have not done enough to protect citizens.
According to the lawmaker, many political office holders, including himself, have diverted attention from governance to political activities at the expense of security.
He stressed that addressing insecurity requires political leaders to acknowledge their shortcomings in protecting lives and property, adding that failure to do so would amount to insensitivity.
He said, “I look at politics as part and parcel of what is aiding this thing because a lot of us, myself included, have contracted our time in politicking rather than providing the much-needed security for our people.
“It is a failure of leadership. I am also included, and there is no regret in saying I am also involved.”
Recall that Ningi recently called for urgent measures to curb insecurity, including the possible suspension of political activities in affected parts of the country.
Ningi, who spoke during the plenary, said insecurity in several states had reached a level requiring extraordinary intervention, warning that political activities in such areas may need to be temporarily halted.
He listed Borno, Plateau, Bauchi, Benue, Niger, Sokoto, Kebbi, and parts of Kano State as areas he considers most affected.
He said, “We cannot continue to assume that because we are in Abuja, this does not affect us. It affects all of us,” he said.
“Either we suspend all political activities across the country, or we look at the frontline states—Borno, Plateau, Bauchi, Benue, Niger, Sokoto, Kebbi, and parts of Kano and suspend political activities there until we are certain that these security challenges are under control.
“I think we are not doing enough. We must do enough to show Nigerians that we are truly the Senate of the Federal Republic.”
Source: naijanews.com
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https://www.naijanews.com/2026/04/24/ningi-blames-political-leaders-worsening-insecurity/
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Southeast Asia
No new non-muslim worship sites on Federal Territory land
23 Apr 2026
Hannah Yeoh announces ban on new RIBI construction on government land in Federal Territories, with enforcement action for violations.
KUALA LUMPUR: No new construction and expansion of non-Muslim houses of worship (RIBI) on government land in the Federal Territories will be allowed starting today, with enforcement action to be taken against violations.
Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Federal Territories) Hannah Yeoh said the directive aimed to prevent new encroachment cases and the unauthorised expansion of existing structures.
“Starting today, to prevent new encroachment cases and the expansion of existing structures (of RIBI) without permission on government land, no construction or additions will be allowed and will be subject to enforcement action by local authorities in accordance with prevailing regulations.
“All actions will be carried out prudently and respectfully taking into account local community sensitivities,” she said in a Facebook post, today.
The matter was discussed during the RIBI Committee Meeting of the Federal Territories which she chaired on Tuesday.
Hannah said the terms of reference for the meeting had also been enhanced with the involvement of Kuala Lumpur parliamentarians and Malaysian Consultative Council of Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Sikhism and Taoism (MCCBCHST) to strengthen the discussion and resolution process.
“The MADANI Government is adopting a structured, prudent and fair approach to handling this matter, taking into account community needs and existing legal frameworks,” she noted.
To support these efforts, Hannah said the Federal Territories Department has developed a mapping of unauthorised RIBI by parliamentary constituencies with 163 structures have been identified on government land to date.
Besides that, Hannah said the meeting also agreed to establish 11 sub-committees chaired by Members of Parliament in their respective areas to lead discussions with relevant stakeholders, including the MCCBCHST.
At the same time, she said the Ministry of Housing and Local Government (KPKT) is refining guidelines on the management of non-Islamic places of worship to help ensure a more aligned and orderly approach nationwide.
“I believe this inclusive and prudent approach will ensure that every issue is resolved well while maintaining harmony in the multicultural society of the Federal Territories,” she added.
Source: thesun.my
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https://thesun.my/news/malaysia-news/people-issues/no-new-non-muslim-worship-sites-on-federal-territory-land/
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Government freezes 163 unauthorised non-Muslim religious sites in KL, launches structured solution plan
23 Apr 2026
KUALA LUMPUR, April 23 — The government has imposed an immediate freeze on any new construction or expansion at 163 unauthorised non-Muslim places of worship (RIBI) identified on public land in the city.
Announcing the move, Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Federal Territories) Hannah Yeoh said 11 new sub-committees, led by local members of parliament, will be established to seek fair and structured solutions for these existing sites.
The initiative follows a high-level meeting chaired by Yeoh, which for the first time included Kuala Lumpur MPs and the Malaysian Consultative Council of Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Sikhism and Taoism (MCCBCHST) to strengthen the resolution process.
“The Madani government is adopting a structured, prudent and fair approach to handling this matter, taking into account community needs and existing legal frameworks,” she said in a statement.
The Federal Territories Department (JWP) has completed a mapping exercise, identifying 163 unauthorised RIBI across various parliamentary constituencies.
To address the issue at a grassroots level, the 11 sub-committees will be formed, each chaired by the MP of the respective area. These committees will lead discussions with religious leaders and other relevant parties to find workable solutions for the existing structures.
Yeoh also said any attempts to build new structures or expand existing ones at these unauthorised sites will be subject to enforcement action by local authorities.
“Starting today, no construction or additions will be allowed,” Yeoh stated, but gave her assurance that all enforcement actions would be carried out “prudently and respectfully, taking into account local community sensitivities.”
The move is supported by a parallel effort at the national level, where the Ministry of Housing and Local Government is refining guidelines for the management of non-Islamic places of worship to ensure a more orderly approach nationwide.
Yeoh expressed confidence that this inclusive strategy would lead to positive outcomes.
“I believe this inclusive and prudent approach will ensure that every issue is resolved well while maintaining harmony in the multicultural society of the Federal Territories,” she said.
Source: malaymail.com
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https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2026/04/23/government-freezes-163-unauthorised-non-muslim-religious-sites-in-kl-launches-structured-solution-plan/217396
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Exco: Selangor wants ‘win-win’ solutions for non-Muslim religious sites
23 Apr 2026
SHAH ALAM, April 23 — The Selangor government is adopting a diplomatic approach in addressing issues related to non-Muslim houses of worship (RIBI), aiming to ensure fair resolutions while preserving harmony among all parties.
State Human Resources and Poverty Alleviation Committee chairman V. Papparaidu said authorities are currently handling 178 cases involving such facilities, all of which will be managed carefully with a win-win approach.
“We are not relying on fake news or unverified information on WhatsApp. There may be individuals attempting to create confusion, so these matters must be handled responsibly,” he said.
He was responding to a supplementary question from Dr Gunarajah R. George (PH-Sentosa), who sought clarification on the number of illegally built RIBIs in Selangor.
Papparaidu also urged all parties to uphold the spirit of unity and diversity that has long defined the state, cautioning against actions that could undermine these values.
“Selangor is a plural society. When Hindus celebrate Thaipusam, large crowds gather in Selangor and Batu Caves without issue. Likewise, Muslims perform Friday prayers peacefully.
“Our Chinese community also carries out worship activities in various settings, and there are no problems. We practise flexibility, and that is what makes Selangor unique,” he said. — Bernama
Source: malaymail.com
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https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2026/04/23/exco-selangor-wants-win-win-solutions-for-non-muslim-religious-sites/217380
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Government vows no let-up in zakat fund misappropriation cases
24 Apr 2026
Malaysia will not compromise on zakat fund misuse as the minister vows firm legal action against any wrongdoing, including criminal breach of trust
KUALA LUMPUR: The government will not compromise and will take firm action against any party involved in the misappropriation of zakat funds, including offences such as criminal breach of trust and abuse of power.
Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Dr Zulkifli Hasan said the matter is being taken seriously, with authorities entrusted to carry out a thorough investigation.
“This issue (zakat fund misappropriation) is still under investigation and does not reflect the overall system or management of zakat collection in Malaysia.
“It must be investigated first, and any wrongdoing, including breach of trust or abuse of power, will be dealt with under the law without exception,” he told reporters after visiting residents of Yayasan Pendidikan Insani in Bandar Baru Selayang today.
He also expressed confidence that zakat institutions generally manage funds responsibly, while stressing the need to further strengthen governance.
“Alhamdulillah, many zakat centres are now performing well, including the Federal Territories Islamic Religious Council, which has received various governance recognitions and clean audit certificates from the Auditor-General,” he said.
On the role of non-governmental organisations (NGOs) in zakat management, he said the matter should be referred to the State Islamic Religious Councils and state-level zakat authorities.
Commenting on efforts to enhance governance among Islamic NGOs, Zulkifli said the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) has introduced initiatives to strengthen organisational capacity, particularly in financial management and governance.
“We provide training and courses to Islamic NGOs to strengthen governance and financial management. We are also exploring more comprehensive programmes to support their development,” he said.
Source: thesun.my
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https://thesun.my/news/malaysia-news/people-issues/government-vows-no-let-up-in-zakat-fund-misappropriation-cases/
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5,364 Malaysian pilgrims arrive in Madinah for haj
24 Apr 2026
The initial phase of this year’s haj operations is progressing smoothly, with 5,364 Malaysian pilgrims having arrived in Madinah as of midnight
MAKKAH: A total of 5,364 Malaysian Haj pilgrims have arrived in Madinah as of midnight, marking the smooth progress of the initial phase of this year’s Haj operations
Malaysian Haj delegation head Mohd Hisham Harun, said 19 flights carrying Malaysian pilgrims have arrived so far, with another flight scheduled to depart for Madinah today.
“The Pilgrims’ Fund Board (Tabung Haji) continuously monitors the movement of pilgrims to ensure operations proceed as planned, while safeguarding their welfare at all times,” he told reporters here today
He added that more flights will be deployed soon to transport the remaining pilgrims in stages.
The 1447H/2026M Haj operation began on April 18, involving 31,600 Malaysian pilgrims travelling in stages to Madinah and Makkah via 100 special chartered flights operated by AMAL by Malaysia Airlines and Saudia.
Source: thesun.my
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https://thesun.my/news/malaysia-news/5364-malaysian-pilgrims-arrive-in-madinah-for-haj/
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Zakat MAINPP denies connection to alleged fund misappropriation
24 Apr 2026
“Any attempt to associate Zakat MAINPP with the party concerned is unfounded, misleading and could erode public confidence in the zakat institution.”
GEORGE TOWN: Zakat Majlis Agama Islam Negeri Pulau Pinang (Zakat MAINPP) has dismissed allegations linking it to the alleged misappropriation of zakat funds, describing the claim as baseless and misleading.
Its chief executive officer Mohamad Kairi Ghazalli said Zakat MAINPP viewed the allegations seriously and would not compromise on any claims or dissemination of information that could undermine public confidence in the state’s zakat institution.
He stressed that the individuals or parties linked to the case were not representatives, agents, strategic partners, or authorised appointees of Zakat MAINPP in any capacity.
“Any attempt to associate Zakat MAINPP with the party concerned is unfounded, misleading and could erode public confidence in the zakat institution.
“Zakat MAINPP has never appointed any agent or intermediary for zakat collection, but instead only designates legitimate and recognised collection representatives in accordance with established policies and procedures,” he said in a statement today.
Elaborating, Mohamad Kairi said the institution has a clear policy on the appointment of collection representatives, including the requirement that the entity must operate in Penang and be registered with the relevant authorities.
He said each application would undergo a thorough screening and evaluation process at management level before being presented to the board of directors and subsequently submitted to the Penang Islamic Religious Council (MAINPP) for approval.
“The appointment period for collection representatives is two years, during which they are required to submit performance reports periodically and are subject to continuous monitoring, including internal audits.
“Zakat MAINPP also reserves the right to review, continue or terminate the appointment of any collection representative, depending on performance and compliance levels,” he said.
Mohamad Kairi also stressed that zakat management in the state is carried out under strict governance, including internal monitoring, periodic reviews and layered audit mechanisms, to ensure that all funds are managed transparently, with integrity and in compliance with syariah requirements.
Source: thesun.my
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https://thesun.my/news/malaysia-news/people-issues/zakat-mainpp-denies-connection-to-alleged-fund-misappropriation/
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Malaysia’s cloud seeding operation boosts Johor rainfall levels
23 Apr 2026
Cloud seeding in Johor yields 5mm to 40mm of rain, with MetMalaysia and RMAF collaborating to address dry weather and water shortages.
KUALA LUMPUR: The cloud seeding operation (OPA) in Johor yesterday showed positive developments when the state recorded rainfall between 5 millimetres (mm) and 40mm as a result of the intervention.
Minister of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Datuk Seri Arthur Joseph Kurup said the operation was conducted by the Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) in collaboration with the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) to increase rainfall distribution in catchment areas affected by dry weather.
“Weather radar analysis showed that rain was detected as early as 5 pm. Although the operation was not conducted at the Machap Dam due to the absence of suitable clouds, overall, this operation is categorised as successful,” he posted on Facebook today.
He said that through the third series of operations this year, the RMAF C130-Hercules aircraft that departed from the Subang Air Base at 3.10 pm targeted the Seluyut Dam, Lok Heng Cluster, Upper Layang, Lower Layang, Pulai and Lebam areas using a technique of dispersing salt solution into cumulus clouds at an altitude of 5,000 to 7,000 feet.
He said significant rainfall was recorded in Bukit Layang-layang (28.9mm), Johor Bahru (18.8mm), Felda Bukit Batu (5.1mm) and Labis (3.4mm).
“Thank you to the MetMalaysia and RMAF teams for their commitment to addressing water shortage issues in critical catchment areas for the well-being of the people. We will continue to monitor atmospheric conditions for further action, if necessary,” he said.
Source: thesun.my
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https://thesun.my/news/malaysia-news/people-issues/malaysias-cloud-seeding-operation-boosts-johor-rainfall-levels/
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South Asia
Trump reviewing Congo option for Afghan refugees, sparks concern
By Fidel Rahmati
April 24, 2026
Trump says he is reviewing plans to relocate Afghan refugees in Qatar, as bipartisan criticism grows over proposals to send them to Congo.
Donald Trump said he is considering options for around 1,100 Afghan refugees stranded in Qatar, including possible relocation to Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Speaking to reporters, Trump said he was not fully briefed on the plan and would need to review available options before making a decision on the future of the group.
According to reports, the proposal could force refugees to choose between relocation to Congo or returning to Afghanistan under Taliban rule, a move widely criticized in Washington.
The refugees are among Afghan nationals evacuated after the 2021 collapse of Kabul, many of whom assisted US military operations and have since remained in temporary facilities awaiting resettlement.
A US program approved by Congress previously aimed to relocate eligible Afghans to the United States after security vetting, but implementation has slowed, leaving hundreds in uncertainty.
Lawmakers from both parties have opposed the Congo proposal, urging the administration to restore the resettlement pathway and honor commitments made to Afghan allies.
Chris Coons called the plan “a betrayal,” while Jeanne Shaheen said sending families to unstable environments would be unacceptable.
Democrats argue the proposal risks exposing vulnerable refugees, including women and children, to insecurity either in Congo or under Taliban governance in Afghanistan.
Source: khaama.com
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https://www.khaama.com/trump-reviewing-congo-option-for-afghan-refugees-sparks-concern/
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Afghanistan Advances Regional Trade Ties at Central Asia Industrial Expo
April 22, 2026
On the sidelines of the Central Asia International Industrial Exhibition, Afghanistan took a notable step toward strengthening its regional economic integration by engaging in a high-level trilateral meeting with Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan. The meeting brought together Afghanistan’s Minister of Industry and Commerce, Nooruddin Azizi, Uzbekistan’s Minister of Investment, Industry and Trade, Laziz Kudratov, and Kyrgyzstan’s Deputy Minister of Economy and Commerce, Iskander Asilkulov.
The primary focus of the trilateral discussions was to enhance cooperation in transit and trade facilitation, areas that are critical for landlocked Afghanistan’s economic growth. All three sides acknowledged the importance of reducing logistical barriers and streamlining cross-border procedures to promote smoother trade flows across the region.
A key issue discussed during the meeting was improving Afghanistan’s access to the markets of Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan. Afghan officials emphasized the need to expand export opportunities for domestic products, particularly in sectors such as agriculture, textiles, and light manufacturing. The Uzbek and Kyrgyz representatives, in turn, expressed their willingness to support initiatives that would allow Afghan goods to enter their markets more efficiently, provided that regulatory and quality standards are met.
Another significant topic on the agenda was Afghanistan’s participation in the Central Asia International Industrial Exhibition. The exhibition, which includes participation from Central Asian countries as well as Russia and Belarus, serves as a major platform for industrial cooperation, networking, and showcasing products. Afghan officials highlighted the importance of securing formal membership in the exhibition framework, arguing that it would open new avenues for Afghan companies to present their products on an international stage.
The discussions concluded with a mutual agreement to establish a joint working group dedicated to addressing transit and trade-related challenges. This working group will focus on identifying bottlenecks, proposing practical solutions, and ensuring the implementation of agreed measures. Particular emphasis will be placed on facilitating the movement of Afghan export goods through regional transit corridors, which remain underutilized due to infrastructural and administrative constraints.
In addition to the formation of the working group, the parties also reached an understanding regarding Afghanistan’s membership in the Central Asia International Industrial Exhibition. This development is expected to provide Afghan industrial firms with access to a range of membership benefits, including participation in exhibitions, networking opportunities with regional and international partners, and increased visibility for Afghan products.
Observers view this trilateral engagement as a positive signal of Afghanistan’s intent to integrate more deeply into regional economic frameworks. By collaborating with neighboring countries and leveraging platforms such as the industrial exhibition, Afghanistan aims to overcome longstanding challenges related to its geographic isolation and limited access to global markets.
The participation of countries like Russia and Belarus in the exhibition further underscores its significance as a regional hub for industrial cooperation. For Afghanistan, gaining membership represents not only a symbolic achievement but also a practical opportunity to enhance its industrial capacity and promote its exports internationally.
Overall, the meeting reflects a growing recognition among Central Asian nations of the importance of regional connectivity and economic collaboration. If effectively implemented, the agreements reached during this trilateral dialogue could mark an important step toward improving trade infrastructure, boosting exports, and fostering sustainable economic growth for Afghanistan and the broader region.
Source: thekabultimes.com
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https://thekabultimes.com/afghanistan-advances-regional-trade-ties-at-central-asia-industrial-expo/
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Afghanistan’s UN Seat: A Call for Recognition
April 22, 2026
Nearly five years after the Islamic Emirate assumed power in Afghanistan, the question of the country’s representation at the United Nations remains unresolved. This prolonged uncertainty has created confusion both for Afghanistan and for the UN, limiting Afghanistan’s role in global decision-making and complicating diplomatic engagement.
The permanent seat of Afghanistan at the UN has not yet been transferred to the Islamic Emirate through the Credentials Committee. Instead, conditions have been set by the international community, including the demand for an inclusive government, respect for human rights, and commitments to combat terrorism and narcotics. The Islamic Emirate has consistently emphasized that governance and rights are internal matters, while assuring the world that Afghan soil will not be used to threaten other nations.
This unresolved situation has had practical consequences. For four consecutive years, Afghanistan has been deprived of voting rights in the UN General Assembly due to unpaid membership fees, now exceeding $900,000. The Islamic Emirate has made clear that payment of this debt is contingent upon the rightful transfer of Afghanistan’s UN seat. Without this recognition, Afghanistan remains sidelined from decisions that directly affect its people and future.
The continuation of this ambiguity benefits no one. On one hand, Afghanistan is prevented from contributing to international discussions, while on the other, the UN itself faces difficulty in addressing Afghan issues without clear representation. This lack of clarity undermines cooperation and prolongs mistrust.
Afghanistan today enjoys nationwide security, and work in all sectors continues. Stability has been restored, and the country is moving forward in governance, development, and international engagement. The rightful transfer of Afghanistan’s UN seat to the Islamic Emirate would not only end confusion but also allow Afghanistan to participate constructively in the global community.
Recognition of Afghanistan’s seat is not merely a symbolic gesture; it is a practical necessity. It would enable Afghanistan to fulfill its responsibilities as a UN member, pay its dues, and contribute to collective decision-making. More importantly, it would prevent further diplomatic stagnation and allow the UN to engage Afghanistan with clarity and confidence.
The time has come for the United Nations to resolve this matter. Afghanistan’s seat must be handed over to the Islamic Emirate so that both Afghanistan and the UN can move beyond uncertainty and work together on issues of mutual concern. Only through recognition and clarity can Afghanistan’s voice be heard in the international arena, ensuring that its progress and stability are reflected in global decision-making.
Source: thekabultimes.com
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https://thekabultimes.com/afghanistans-un-seat-a-call-for-recognition/
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Govt to publish white paper on education sector
24 April 2026
Education Minister ANM Ehsanul Hoque Milon yesterday told parliament that a white paper will be published on irregularities and corruption in the education sector during the Awami League era.
His announcement came in response to a query by Pabna-5 MP Shamsur Rahman Shimul Biswas during the question-and-answer session chaired by Speaker Hafiz Uddin Ahmad.
Milon said the government has placed policy emphasis on investigating irregularities and corruption in the education sector from the 2008–09 fiscal year to 2024–25, adding that the education ministry has already instructed relevant authorities to thoroughly examine possible financial and administrative lapses, along with managerial weaknesses, and prepare a consolidated report.
The minister added that once the investigation and verification process is complete, the government will take steps to draft and publish the white paper in phases.
However, given the broad scope of the inquiry, he noted that it is not possible at this stage to set a specific timeline.
OVER 92,000 TEACHER POSTS VACANT
The education minister also said the country’s secondary institutions are suffering from around 92,081 vacant teacher posts across government and non-government institutions in general, madrasa, and technical streams.
Replying to queries from MPs at the question-and-answer session, he added that 77,227 posts remain vacant in private (MPO-listed) educational institutions.
Through the e-requisition process, the ministry has compiled a nationwide list of vacancies, and the Non-Government Teachers’ Registration and Certification Authority (NTRCA) will soon issue a recruitment circular to gradually fill the posts, he said.
In another response, Milon said that technical education institutions have 15,844 sanctioned teacher posts, of which 7,074 are occupied and 8,770 are vacant.
The minister added that recruitment is already underway for 1,552 positions, while the Directorate of Technical Education has sent a requisition to the Public Service Commission to fill another 1,579 posts.
He said three government Alia madrasas currently have 114 vacant teaching posts, while non-government madrasas face 1,354 vacancies for superintendents and 1,774 for assistant superintendents.
Milon further informed parliament that government secondary schools have 2,842 vacant posts, assuring that steps are being taken to fill them through the PSC in government schools and through NTRCA in non-government institutions.
Source: thedailystar.net
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https://www.thedailystar.net/news/education/news/govt-publish-white-paper-education-sector-4159401
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‘Exposing children to measles outbreak a rights violation’
24 April 2026
Manusher Jonno Foundation has expressed deep concern over the ongoing measles outbreak, calling it a serious public health crisis and urging immediate, coordinated action.
In a statement issued yesterday, the organisation said the outbreak poses a direct threat to children’s rights to health and life.
Citing the Directorate General of Health Services, MJF said 28,334 suspected measles cases have been reported since March 15, of which 4,059 were confirmed.
Stressing the severity of the situation, it added that 39 deaths from confirmed measles and 194 from suspected measles were reported during the same period.
While noting that a nationwide vaccination campaign targeting around 1.8 crore children aged between six months and under five years began on April 20, MJF expressed concern over shortages of testing kits and a prolonged suspension in vaccine imports.
The organisation also referred to the prime minister’s remarks in parliament, acknowledging the issue and warning that such limitations could hinder prevention efforts.
Calling the situation unacceptable, MJF said exposing children to a preventable disease like measles amounts to a violation of their fundamental rights to survival, health and protection.
It urged the government to ensure an adequate supply of measles-rubella vaccines, expand the vaccination campaign, strengthen testing and diagnosis, and provide accessible, quality treatment for affected children.
MJF also called for greater transparency and accountability in managing the outbreak, adding that protecting children’s health is both a constitutional and moral obligation of the state.
Source: thedailystar.net
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https://www.thedailystar.net/news/bangladesh/news/exposing-children-measles-outbreak-rights-violation-4159246
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Deputy PM Emphasizes Importance of Modern Sciences Alongside Religious Studies
24 April 2026
The Press Office of the Prime Minister announced that Mawlavi Abdul Salam Hanafi, Deputy Prime Minister for Administrative Affairs, met and held discussions with officials, teachers, and students of the madrasa during his visit.
He stated that the fact that institutions such as the Jihadi Madrasa in Jawzjan are now equipped with all educational and welfare facilities is due to the blessings of the Islamic system, the leadership of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan, the scholars, and the sacrifices of thousands of martyrs who called for the expulsion of foreign forces, the establishment of an Islamic system, and the implementation of Sharia in the country. He further urged students to make proper use of the facilities provided to them, as well as their time and opportunities.
Mawlavi Abdul Salam Hanafi addressed the students, saying that they should strive to respect their teachers. He also urged them to, in addition to their fundamental studies, learn modern sciences and contemporary skills, attend their main lessons during official hours, and use their free time to acquire various fields of knowledge.
The Deputy Prime Minister for Administrative Affairs described the students of the Jihadi Madrasa in Jawzjan as the wealth of Afghanistan and the future leaders and servants of the country and the Islamic system. He added that they can only become true leaders and servants of the people of Afghanistan if they acquire knowledge and skills, and that without learning science and education, this goal cannot be achieved.
Source: bakhtarnews.af
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https://www.bakhtarnews.af/en/Deputy-PM-Emphasizes-Importance-of-Modern-Sciences-Alongside-Religious-Studies
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Islamic Emirate Warns of Crackdown on Foreign Workers Using Tourist Visas
24 April 2026
According to a statement from the Ministry’s press office, following directives from the Prime Minister’s Office, the Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs, led by Mullah Zahid Ahmadzai, convened a meeting with representatives from the Ministries of Foreign Affairs, Interior, and Information and Culture. The meeting focused on improving procedures for issuing work visas and permits to foreign nationals.
Representatives from the relevant government departments presented reports on their activities, discussing ways to streamline the issuance of work visas, prevent employment under tourist visas, and facilitate the work permit process.
Mullah Ahmadzai emphasized that all foreign nationals must comply with the laws and regulations of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan. He reiterated that while the process for obtaining work permits has been simplified, strict action will be taken against those working under tourist visas.
Mawlavi Qudratullah Jamal, Deputy Minister for Tourism Affairs in the Ministry of Information and Culture, highlighted the importance of foreign nationals entering the country. He noted their role in boosting government revenue, enhancing work quality, and attracting foreign investment, which is vital for Afghanistan’s economic development.
Source: bakhtarnews.af
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https://www.bakhtarnews.af/en/Islamic-Emirate-Warns-of-Crackdown-on-Foreign-Workers-Using-Tourist-Visas
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