Muslim Groups, Left, TMC Oppose Govt's Move To Mandate Recitation Of All 6 Verses Of Vande Mataram

New Age Islam News Bureau

13 February 2026

·         Muslim groups, Left, TMC oppose govt’s move to mandate recitation of all 6 verses of Vande Mataram

·         Trump warns Iran of ‘very traumatic’ outcome if no nuclear deal

·         Saudi Arabia’s story began 49 years before the independence of the US

·         Far-right extremist caught selling guns for 'race war' against immigrants and Muslims

·         Rep. Brandon Gill: Radical Islam Is “Alien Ideology That Seeks To Dominate American Life”

·         China Reacts To United States Allegation Of Sponsoring Terrorism In Nigeria

·         Conference of Rulers discusses security, Islamic affairs, judicial appointments

·         Reuters: US weapons and female bombers boost Baloch insurgent capabilities

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India

·         Mandating recitation of Vande Mataram is unconstitutional and unacceptable: AIMPLB

·         VHP: Construction of Babri Masjid in Murshidabad no less than a challenge

·         Supreme Court plea seeks Article 25 protection for Hindus against hate speech

·         Hindu transgenders plan to anoint ‘Kinnar Shankaracharya’ in Bhopal amid ‘Kinnar Jihad’ allegations

·         Suspended TMC MLA Humayun Kabir holds 22 km ‘Babri Yatra’ day after mosque replica construction begins

·         From ‘Khan vs Ban’ to its first Muslim mayor: Parbhani turns Shiv Sena’s history on its head

·         Senior Supreme Court advocates buy memberships at 'Mohammad' Deepak's gym after business hit by row

·         UN Security Council report links Pakistan-based terror group Jaish-e-Mohammed to Red Fort attack in Delhi

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Mideast

·         Trump plans to announce Gaza funding plan, troops at first Board of Peace meeting, US officials say

·         Palestinians look to salvage Gaza’s history from the ruins of Israel’s military offensive

·         Palestinian paramedic from Gaza dies in Israeli prison

·         Yemen PM Al-Zindani to Asharq Al-Awsat: Govt. to move to Aden soon, Foreign Ministry retained to complete reforms

·         Abbas discusses Palestinian developments in Gaza, West Bank with Norwegian king

·         Syria evacuates flood-affected residents of displacement camps in Idlib

·         German parliament speaker visits Gaza

·         Village in southern Lebanon buries a child and father killed in Israeli drone strike

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Arab World

·         Saudi youth turn to AI for art and culture

·         Saudi defense minister meets with Pakistan’s army chief

·         Saudi Scouts Association unveils environmental protection program

·         Saudi FM arrives in Germany ahead of Munich Security Conference

·         Deals worth $8bn signed at World Defense Show 2026

·         Saudi Arabia targets 50 wildlife breeding programs within 5 years

·         383 food baskets distributed in Afghanistan

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Europe

·         Muslim man has lucky escape after petrol bombing at Limerick mosque

·         Former mosque worker jailed for sex abuse of boys

·         SecGen of Muslim Council praises Kazakhstan's role in Azerbaijan-Armenia peace

·         In the wake of internal dispute and reorganisation, Dublin’s Clonskeagh mosque reopens

·         Man linked to plot to bomb Galway mosque claims he can't get fair trial

·         Anti-Muslim graffiti removed from fence near Horwich school

·         Top Azerbaijani cleric hosts delegation of major US Jewish groups

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North America

·         Ilhan Omar under fire for ‘execute Trump’ tweet

·         US lawmakers accuse DOJ of ‘spying’ on Epstein file searches

·         CAIR Releases 2025 Annual Report Highlighting Victories Won Amid Major Challenges

·         CAIR Maryland, IMAN Network Announce Legislative Priorities for 2026 Maryland Muslim Lobby Day

·         NJ Muslim Rights Group Is Collecting Ramadan Donations For Delaney Hall Detainees

·         Analysis: Trump takes victory lap after biggest climate rollback yet

·         Costs from Trump's tariffs paid mainly by US firms and consumers, NY Fed says

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Africa

·         Terrorism, Sharia claims aimed at blocking Kwankwaso’s presidential, VP ambition – Galadima

·         2027: ACF Knock Politicians As Terrorism, Banditry Worsen In The North

·         We will follow Sultan’s directives on Ramadan commencement, says MUSWEN president

·         Makinde: ‘I Give You 48 Hours To Withdraw The Statement’ – Fayose Threatens Atiku

·         Adeleke Has Saved Us From Global Embarrassment – Ooni’s Second-in-Command

·         Kwankwassiya, NNPP Reject Proposed U.S. Visa Ban On Kwankwaso

·         African Union reiterates support for Somalia unity

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Southeast Asia

·         Indonesia Aims to Become Global Halal Hub as Officials Warn It Is Playing Catch-Up

·         How Islamic Finance Fits into Indonesia’s Resilience Strategy

·         Islamic Banking Sector Seen as Undervalued Growth Play

·         Selangor Sultan and Permaisuri grace Islamic affairs forum

·         PM Anwar hails BNP’s Tarique Rahman after Bangladesh election win

·         Finance Ministry: Strong domestic demand lifts Malaysia’s GDP to 5.2pc, narrows fiscal deficit to 3.7pc

·         Anwar: Madani govt to prioritise basic infrastructure access for Sabahans

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South Asia

·         Trump administration drafting new U.S. policy on Afghanistan

·         Turnout in national election and referendum 59.44%, says EC

·         Heavyweight contenders notch commanding victories nationwide

·         India donates Td vaccines to Afghanistan

·         U.S. begins paying Afghan refugees in Qatar to return home, veterans and advocates call move a betrayal

·         UNICEF announces €2 million French aid for earthquake victims in eastern Afghanistan

·         UK envoy says freedom of expression vital for Afghanistan’s future

Compiled by New Age Islam News Bureau

URL: https://newageislam.com/islamic-world-news/uproar-after-iran-named-un-vice-chair-democracy-women-rights/d/138844​

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Muslim groups, Left, TMC oppose govt’s move to mandate recitation of all 6 verses of Vande Mataram

Feb 13, 2026

NEW DELHI: The All India Muslim Personal Law Board on Thursday strongly objected to the central govt’s recent notification mandating the recitation of all six verses of ‘Vande Mataram’ at official functions and in schools before the National Anthem, Jana Gana Mana.

The AIMPLB has termed the decision “unconstitutional and contrary to religious freedom” and demanded that the govt immediately withdraw the notification or else it will challenge it in the court. Both factions of prominent Muslim body Jamiat Ulama -i- Hind have also raised objections to the govt’s order.

Meanwhile, Left parties like CPI(M) and CPI also came forward to oppose the MHA order. CPI(M) demanded that the govt “uphold the spirit of the Constitution and immediately withdraw this order”.

The CPI(M) accused the BJP-led union govt of attempting to create an “unnecessary controversy concerning the national song and the national anthem with ulterior motives” and that the “BJP govt should not be allowed to play with such historic cultural symbols.”

The Left party highlighted that “the Constitution of India clearly states in Article 51A(a) that it is the duty of every citizen to respect the national flag and the national anthem. After thorough deliberation, the constituent assembly adopted the statement made by President Rajendra Prasad concerning the national song, whose two stanzas only would be sung.”

“Through its recent order, the govt seeks to include the remaining four stanzas, which the constituent assembly felt did not resonate the secular character of the Indian Republic,” the party added.

CPI’s Rajya Sabha MP Sandosh Kumar P accused the govt of “cynically weaponising culture to polarise the people.” “Our position is clear: for us, the country comes first; for the BJP, elections come first,” he added.

Referring to the ruling party at the Centre, he alleged that “it is deeply ironic that those who had no role in the freedom struggle and remained subservient to British colonialism now claim the authority to issue certificates of nationalism.”

Trinamool Congress lashed out at the govt alleging that the BJP was “Bangla-Birodhi”. “And now, in an official notification, @HMOIndia has distorted the original lyrics of Vande Mataram penned by Rishi Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay in Anandamath,” the party alleged in a post on X.

Elaborating on the reasons for opposition, AIMPLB general secretary, Maulana Mohammed Fazlur Rahim Mujaddidi, alleged that the MHA order was “unconstitutional, against religious freedom and secular values, contrary to Supreme Court judgment, and directly conflicting with the religious beliefs of Muslims.”

“Whatever the political considerations behind implementing this decision ahead of the West Bengal elections, Muslims cannot accept it, as it directly conflicts with their faith,” he added.

Maulana Mujaddidi said that, following Rabindranath Tagore’s advice and deliberations in the Constituent Assembly, it had been agreed that only the first two stanzas of Vande Mataram would be used. He said that “a secular government cannot forcibly impose the beliefs or teachings of one religion upon followers of other religions”.

He added that the song was written in the context of Bengal and contains references to the worship and veneration of Durga and other deities.

“A Muslim worships only one God, Allah, without partners, and Islam does not permit any form of associating partners with God,” the AIMPLB general secretary emphasised.

“Therefore, the Board demands that the Central Government immediately withdraw the notification; otherwise, the Board will challenge it in the court,” he asserted.

Jamiat Ulama - i - Hind president Maulana Arshad Madani described the govt order as “biased” that he alleged was “a conspiracy to snatch the religious freedom” granted to all citizens by the Constitution of India.

He further alleged that the Central govt’s order on Vande Mataram was a “unilateral and coercive decision” and that it reflects “a systematic attempt to curtail the constitutional rights of minorities”.

“Muslims do not prevent anyone from singing or playing “Vande Mataram”; however, some verses of the song are based on beliefs that portray the homeland as a deity, which contradict the fundamental belief of monotheistic religions. Since a Muslim worships only one Allah, forcing him to sing this song is a clear violation of Article 25 of the Constitution and several judgments of the Supreme Court,” he added.

In a statement from the Maulana Mahmood Madani-led faction of Jamiat Ulama -i- Hind faction, its general secretary Maulana Hakimuddin Qasmi said, “If the majority community wishes to recite it, they are fully entitled to do so. However, making it mandatory for all citizens would amount to imposing restrictions on religious freedom,” he added.

He stated that the Constitution of India guarantees every citizen the inalienable right to profess, practice, and propagate his or her religion, and to live in accordance with one’s faith and conscience. “Therefore, compelling any individual to recite a specific poem or composition that conflicts with his or her religious beliefs is contrary to the spirit and provisions of the Constitution,” he said.

He further stated that “India is a pluralistic and multi-religious nation where constitutional supremacy and the principle of “unity in diversity” form the foundation of national integration. Any step that weakens this foundation cannot be in the interest of the country.”

“The Muslims of India hold a unanimous and unequivocal position that any decision undermining religious freedom will not be accepted. We strongly urge the Government of India to review the said circular in light of constitutional provisions, judicial precedents, and the diverse social fabric of the nation, so that religious liberty, constitutional dignity, and social harmony may be preserved,” he added.

Source: indiatimes.com

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https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/muslim-groups-left-tmc-oppose-govts-move-to-mandate-recitation-of-all-6-verses-of-vande-mataram/articleshowprint/128276596.cms

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Trump warns Iran of ‘very traumatic’ outcome if no nuclear deal

February 12, 2026

President Donald Trump listens to a question from a reporter during an event with Environmental Protection Agency director Lee Zeldin to announce the EPA will no longer regulate greenhouse gases, in the Roosevelt Room of the White House, Thursday, Feb. 12, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

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WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump threatened Iran Thursday with “very traumatic” consequences if it fails to make a nuclear deal — but Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said he was skeptical about the quality of any such agreement.

Speaking a day after he hosted Netanyahu at the White House, Trump said he hoped for a result “over the next month” from Washington’s negotiations with Tehran over its nuclear program.

“We have to make a deal, otherwise it’s going to be very traumatic, very traumatic. I don’t want that to happen, but we have to make a deal,” Trump told reporters.

“This will be very traumatic for Iran if they don’t make a deal.”

Trump — who is considering sending a second aircraft carrier to the Middle East to pressure Iran — recalled the US military strikes he ordered on Tehran’s nuclear facilities during Israel’s 12-day war with Iran in July last year.

“We’ll see if we can get a deal with them, and if we can’t, we’ll have to go to phase two. Phase two will be very tough for them,” Trump said.

Netanyahu had traveled to Washington to push Trump to take a harder line in the Iran nuclear talks, particularly on including the Islamic Republic’s arsenal of ballistic missiles.

But the Israeli and US leaders apparently remained at odds, with Trump saying after their meeting at the White House on Wednesday that he had insisted the negotiations should continue.

- ‘General skepticism’ -

Netanyahu said in Washington on Thursday before departing for Israel that Trump believed he was laying the ground for a deal.

“He believes that the conditions he is creating, combined with the fact that they surely understand they made a mistake last time when they didn’t reach an agreement, may create the conditions for achieving a good deal,” Netanyahu said, according to a video statement from his office.

But the Israeli premier added: “I will not hide from you that I expressed general skepticism regarding the quality of any agreement with Iran.”

Any deal “must include the elements that are very important from our perspective,” Netanyahu continued, listing Iran’s ballistic missile program and its support for armed groups such as the Palestinian movement Hamas, Yemen’s Houthi rebels and Hezbollah in Lebanon.

“It’s not just the nuclear issue,” he said.

Despite their differences on Iran, Trump signaled his strong personal support for Netanyahu as he criticized Israeli President Isaac Herzog for rejecting his request to pardon the prime minister on corruption charges.

“You have a president that refuses to give him a pardon. I think that man should be ashamed of himself,” Trump said on Thursday.

Trump has repeatedly hinted at potential US military action against Iran following its deadly crackdown on protests last month, even as Washington and Tehran restarted talks last week with a meeting in Oman.

The last round of talks between the two foes was cut short by Israel’s war with Iran and the US strikes.

So far, Iran has rejected expanding the new talks beyond the issue of its nuclear program. Tehran denies seeking a nuclear weapon, and has said it will not give in to “excessive demands” on the subject.

Source: arabnews.com

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

https://www.arabnews.com/node/2632812/middle-east

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Saudi Arabia’s story began 49 years before the independence of the US

DR. BADER BIN SAUD

February 12, 2026

On Feb. 22, 1727, nearly 300 years ago, the process of establishing the first Saudi state began in Diriyah during the reign of Imam Mohammed bin Saud, founder of the Saudi ruling family.

 Diriyah was established by his seventh grandfather, Mana’ Al-Muraidi in the 15th century AD.

Sixteen of his descendants became rulers, known as imams in the first and second Saudi states and as kings in the current Saudi state.

Al-Muraidi’s lineage goes back to Bani Hanifa from the Bakr bin Wael tribe, and he is related to the Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, through their common ancestor, Nizar bin Ma’ad bin Adnan.

He moved to the second Diriyah in Najd from the first Diriyah, which was founded by his ancestors in the east of the Arabian Peninsula.

He is the 13th grandfather of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz, and the 14th grandfather of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

The first Saudi state began 49 years before the independence of the US, and according to Western travelers themselves, it expanded remarkably during the reign of Imam Saud bin Abdulaziz, known as Saud the Great, the third ruler in its history.

According to European documents, what he did was unprecedented in terms of his correspondence with heads of states and empires on behalf of his country, including Napoleon Bonaparte, the emperor of France, and the shah of Iran.

He established a special protocol for correspondence and negotiations, as well as palaces for receiving state guests.

During his reign, the gunpowder industry developed. Imam Saud took power when a man from Iraq assassinated his father, Imam Abdulaziz, while he was leading people in prayer in 1803, shortly after his defeat of the Turks in four campaigns launched against him from Basra.

Saud the Great was known by this compound name because he expanded the size of the state, adding Makkah and Madinah to it, reaching Hodeidah in Yemen and south of Damascus, and stopping at the borders of Basra, adding to the achievements of his forebears.

The state of his grandfather, Imam Mohammed bin Saud, stopped at Sudair, Al-Mahmal, and most of Al-Arad, while the state of his father, Imam Abdulaziz, added Riyadh to it, and reached Dumat Al-Jandal and Wadi Sarhan in the north, along with parts of southern Iraq, Jazan in the south, Taif in the west, and extended his influence over Bahrain, Qatar, Ras Al-Khaimah, Muscat and Al-Hadd in the east, establishing a stability the land had not known for a long time.

During the reign of Imam Saud, which represented the peak of the state’s expansion and dominance, Mohammed Ali Pasha sent an army from Egypt, led by his son Toussaint, and Imam Saud defeated him in the Battle of Wadi Al-Safra.

The shah of Iran too sent an army against him at Muscat, and Imam Saud won another great victory there.

Ras Al-Khaimah, meanwhile, was attacked by British ships coming from India to eliminate Saudi influence there. The Saudi forces suffered severe losses before the ships headed on to Manama and bombarded Saudi forces there as well. The battles ended with a truce between the first Saudi state and Britain.

Elsewhere, quality of life and prosperity prevailed in Diriyah, as evidenced by its hosting of the seasonal market, the largest market on the Arabian Peninsula at that time, with goods coming to it from Iraq, Yemen, Oman and the Levant.

The Diriyah Bathhouse was built, which is a large building that served as a public bathhouse, similar to its counterparts in the Levant and Egypt.

Some historians have reported that a single house in Diriyah during the early days of the Saudi state was worth more than 20 times the value of a house in the rest of the Najd.

This shows that demand for housing was high, as is the case in Riyadh today, where timber prices rose significantly as a result of the urban renaissance and large-scale construction, most notably the 13 km-long Diriyah Wall, which contained 78 defensive towers.

The anniversary of its founding confirms that Diriyah, despite its destruction in 1818, has been brought back to life, thanks to the interest shown by King Salman when he was Prince of Riyadh, with the registration of At-Turaif district in Diriyah on UNESCO’s World Heritage List in 2010.

With the support of the Kingdom’s leadership, and with the Diriyah Gate project in 2019, it has become a global cultural and tourist destination that reflects its identity and ancient details with thoughtful modernity.

It will cost $63 billion and cover an area of 14 km, qualifying Diriyah to become a center of global culture.

After five years, it will include 38 hotels and 19 resorts and will contribute approximately SR27 billion ($7.2 billion), to GDP, in addition to SR20 billion in local content.

It will be ready to receive 50 million visitors annually and will employ approximately 180,000 Saudis.

Source: arabnews.com

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https://www.arabnews.com/node/2632793/saudi-arabia

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Far-right extremist caught selling guns for 'race war' against immigrants and Muslims

Patrick Hill

12 Feb 2026

The lorry driver ran a workshop from his caravan converting blank-firing guns into deadly pistols to sell to criminals - and stockpiled weapons in preparation for a "race war"(Image: PA)

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A far-right extremist who was illegally selling guns to organised crime groups while preparing for a 'race war' against Muslims and immigrants was today jailed for 16 years.

Lorry driver Thomas McKenna, 60, was using social media app TikTok to communicate with other like-minded racists, including one he told: "We're going to be blowing s*** up soon enough". And they discovered he was also urging pals to buy crossbows in order to prepare.

Detective Chief Inspector James Tipple said: "McKenna was stockpiling weapons, including improvised explosives, as part of his preparations for in his words 'a race war'. McKenna had a very anti-Muslim sentiment and had sent messages to friends and associates saying he was collecting weapons in anticipation of their violent use to kill or shoot Muslims. Or in his words, 'before there were too many'."

"McKenna believed that the race war was imminent, and that's why he would be so ready. The suggestion was by the escalation of the stockpile, the amount that has and by the insight into his mindset from the communication evidence, he was close to being ready to strike.

"He was encouraging other people to make their own preparations for what he saw as the inevitable approaching race war. He was targeting Muslims and other immigrants."

Speaking about McKenna's use of TikTok, a counter-terror officer, who cannot be named, said: "He was in contact with a wide number of other people in kind of spontaneous internet interactions where he was having conversations all along the same lines with anti-immigrants, prepare for the race war, get yourself ready, it's going to happen soon.

"Algorithms meant he was consuming more and more content, which takes you and makes those connections deeper. The way the algorithm works you watch and consume short reels and then if you like and engage with them it will match you with other people consuming the same content."

The investigation was led by the Metropolitan Police's specialist crimes team, assisted by SO15 counter-terror officers. A member of the team working on the case said McKenna was "quite clearly a very significant risk" who "had escalated for a number of years what he was dealing with".

Officers believe he was "self-taught" in making weapons and was running "an established workshop" which had "clearly been used for some time". They spoke about how he was researching and acquiring the knowledge and equipment to be able to convert automatic rifles, "and quite clearly he was researching and testing in relation to IEDs and explosives".

And they also said they believe he had the capacity to carry out a terror attack similar to the Bondi Beach shooting in Australia in December. "It's very worrying to think what actual use he intended to to carry out," an officer said.

McKenna, who police said is originally from Glasgow, had three previous convictions for possession of firearms in 1998, 2001 and 2005. He had pleaded guilty to 14 separate charges, including converting imitation firearms, conspiracy to sell or transfer prohibited firearms, conspiracy to sell or transfer prohibited ammunition and two counts of possessing a prohibited firearm.

He also admitted making explosives, attempting to make explosives and three counts of collection of terrorist information. His guilty pleas came after police raided his home and discovered he was running an "industrial level" gun and bomb-making workshop from one of three caravans he controlled on a traveller site.

Officers found he was using it to convert "significant numbers" of blank firearms and supplying them to organised crime groups. During the raid of McKenna's home in November 2024, police discovered homemade explosives, as well as an imitation submachine gun and an AK47, which McKenna was planning to convert into a functioning firearm.

Officers also found military clothing and a helmet, a hunting knife, throwing axes and knuckle dusters, as well as guidebooks to make weapons, including one called 'DIY guns' and another labelled 'US army improvised munitions handbook'. McKenna was today jailed alongside three others members of his network, including his girlfriend Tina Smith.

He lived on the Buckles Lane traveller site in South Ockendon, Essex, which was once described as the largest in Europe, with Smith, 55, who was arrested alongside him. The bus driver was living with McKenna "in a caravan full of firearms and explosives" and "was fully aware" of what he was doing.

She helped him make explosives and even ordered another member of the gang to obtain potassium nitrate to help build more. She was today jailed for seven years after pleading guilty to possessing a prohibited firearm, making explosives and three counts of collection of terrorist information.

DCI Tipple said: "There was a significant quantity, over 4.5 kilos, of the explosive substance black powder, which McKenna and Tina Smith had made and there were further significant quantities of the ingredients needed to make more.

"In May 2024, McKenna had sent Tina Smith a number of links of 'how to' videos relating to the manufacture of black powder and of improvised grenades made from plastic bottles. Evidence from Smith's phone showed she had sent McKenna videos of her attempts to make that power. This was followed by rather scathing replies from McKenna at her lack of expertise."

DCI Tipple added: "In a jug by the dining room table were two IEDs made by McKenna using plastic fish baiters, into which had been inserted significant amounts of black power with a bullet as the intended method of initiation. Shrapnel had been inserted into one of those devices. A further 34, as yet unused fish baiters were also recovered.

"Whilst there's evidence McKenna was interested in using gunpowder in one of his other firearms, the very significant quantities of gunpowder seized and the use to which it had been put into the IEDs, point to an intention to make further such devices."

More than 80 cops, including officers from the Met, Essex and Kent, took part in the raid of McKenna's caravans in November 2024. Other colleagues from armed policing, counter terrorism policing London and specialist crimes were involved. And officers were also assisted by the Met's forensic command, bomb disposal experts from the Ministry of Defence, as well as police drone pilots providing aerial coverage.

DCI Tipple said: "The search of the caravans was a huge undertaking which took three full days. More than 100 exhibits were seized and a large cordon had to be maintained to protect the public on the site. As well as the converted blank firearms, other weapons were seized from the caravans, including a 22-inch single shotgun, disguised as a torch, which was successfully test fired, including using bulleted cartridges, also seized from the caravans.

"There were also imitation or replica firearms, including an AK47 and a submachine gun. These were non-firing and to convert them would have been a complex task, but their parts would have been useful for that purpose and the communications evidence indicates McKenna was carrying out research on how to achieve this."

Police linked six converted guns to McKenna and found nine more in his home. Speaking about the converted guns, DCI Tipple said: "They are just as lethal as original purpose firearms. If you shot someone with it there's a high likelihood they're going to die."

He added: "We've been able to do specific tests to show that those firearms were manufactured or converted in a workshop with his equipment and tools. But we can't really say how many guns McKenna converted and supplied."

Allan Crosby, 44, and Ryan Smith, also 44, were also both today sentenced at Kingston Crown Court, south-west London, for their part in the network.

The pair had both been convicted of possession of a firearm and modified ammunition following a trial in November. Crosby had also pleaded guilty to possession with intent to supply cocaine. They both had previous convictions prohibiting them from possessing firearms and ammunition so were also sentenced for a charge of possessing the items when being a prohibited person. Crosby, of Sidcup, Kent, was today handed ten years. Smith, of Dunton Green, Kent, received seven-and-a-half years.

Other members of the network will be sentenced at the another hearing next month, including Faisal Razzaq, who was previously jailed for life over the shooting of hero PC Sharon Beshenivsky. He was released from jail in 2017 after serving just 11 years of a life sentence for the killing of PC Beshenivsky in Bradford, west Yorks, in November 2005.

Ricky Dorey, who lived on the same caravan site as McKenna, sold the converted firearms to criminal customers. Dorey was also assisted by his brother Robert, who had been released on license in May 2023 after serving a 16-year jail sentence for an attempted murder in which a man was shot in the head.

Both Ricky, 43, of South Ockendon, and Robert, 44, of Tilbury, Essex, have pleaded guilty to conspiracy to sell or transfer prohibited firearms. Patrick Loughnane, 59, of Hayes, has pleaded guilty to conspiracy to sell or transfer prohibited firearms, while his girlfriend Tammy Rigg, 39, has pleaded guilty to possession of a prohibited firearm and possession of ammunition without a certificate.

DCI Tipple said: "This investigation has dismantled an entire group responsible for the manufacture, sale, conversion and possession of converted blank firearms. It's extremely rare to take out an entire criminal network like this in one go and this investigation represents some of the finest work Met detectives have done in recent years.

"The case is a fantastic example of the work Met officers are carrying out to reduce gun crime by dismantling the supply chains of firearms into London and the wider area. Throughout this investigation we were helped by the first class work of the Met's forensic department. "We tested all the firearms and analysed all the explosive material, demonstrating how many of the weapons and ammunition McKenna had converted were viable. The senior figures in this case all have long lists of previous convictions for acts of violence, in particular Razzaq, who was involved in the killing of a police officer."

DCI Tipple added: "One of the clearest examples of the impact of this case in reducing gun crime in London is since McKenna's arrest, we have seen significant reduction in the number of converted blank firearms involved in shootings across London. This demonstrates the importance of McKenna in the illegal supply of firearms and why it was so crucial his criminal network was dismantled.

"I'm pleased to say that, as a result of the excellent police investigation, some of the most dangerous members of our society will be off the streets of London for a very long time."

Source: mirror.co.uk

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https://www.mirror.co.uk/news/uk-news/far-right-extremist-used-tiktok-36714528

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Rep. Brandon Gill: Radical Islam Is “Alien Ideology That Seeks To Dominate American Life”

FEB 12, 2026

Congressman Brandon Gill | Image by Congressman Brandon Gill @RepBrandonGill/X

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Rep. Brandon Gill (R-TX) called Islam an “alien ideology that seeks to dominate American life,” in an exclusive statement to The Dallas Express.

“Our citizens deserve to live in a Sharia-free America – the facts are undeniable, radical Islam is an alien ideology that seeks to dominate American life,” Gill said to DX. “Research shows that 33% of Muslims in the U.S. believe that Islam should be declared as our national religion.”

Gill joined a House Judiciary Committee hearing on “Sharia-Free America” on February 10, where he interviewed key witnesses about the spread of radical Islam, including in Texas.

Legislators interviewed witnesses, including George Mason Professor of Law Ilya Somin, David Horowitz Freedom Center Shillman Fellow Robert Spencer, RAIR Foundation Texas Director Krista Schild, and Pelican Institute for Public Policy Chairman Stephen Gelé.

‘Islam as a Political Ideology’

“This is an issue that I hear all the time from my constituents in North Texas, who are concerned about the rise of radical Islam,” Gill said in his opening remarks.

Gill asked Somin if he was aware of American Muslims’ support for things like Sharia law, banning images of Muhammad, and making Islam the national religion. He pointed to several studies from The Heritage Foundation.

“I’m just asking if those statistics concern you,” Gill said.

“If they were accurate, they would be a matter of concern, but I would want to see the more accurate survey,” Somin replied.

“They are accurate, and I think that they are a matter of concern, and I think most Americans agree with me,” Gill said.

Gill then turned to Spencer. He asked if “Islam as a political ideology” is compatible with America’s constitutional framework.

“Certainly not,” Spencer replied. “It denies the freedom of speech, denies the equality of rights of non-Muslims with Muslims, the equality of rights of women with men, and contradicts U.S. law and numerous other particulars.”

Gill asked Spencer to describe the goal of political Islam.

“Muhammad, the prophet of Islam, said Islam must dominate and not be dominated,” Spencer replied. “In every Sharia state that is on earth today and has ever been on earth, non-Muslims have not had equality of rights with Muslims.”

Gill then turned to Schild to discuss issues in Texas.

“Can you explain to us very briefly, what is EPIC City?” Gill asked.

“To understand how Sharia relates to EPIC City, you don’t have to look any further than Imam Yasir Qadhi of EPIC,” Schild said.

She pointed to Qadhi’s role as chairman of the Fiqh Council of North America – the group that instructs Muslims how to implement Sharia law in America.

EPIC is planning an Islamic city in rural Collin County, initially called EPIC City, as The Dallas Express reported. After public backlash and an investigation by Attorney General Ken Paxton, the developers have renamed it The Meadow.

Gill asked who is funding EPIC City.

“When EPIC City was first marketed, they actively solicited investors, including foreign investors,” Schild said. “That fundraising model is now under serious legal scrutiny.”

Radical Islam in Texas

When the EPIC mosque held a candidate forum on February 9, House District 32 candidate Abteen Vaziri condemned the Iranian regime and Sharia law – sparking backlash from the crowd. The Dallas Express obtained exclusive video of the event.

Meanwhile, the Dubai firm SEE Holding is planning a 2,300-acre “Sustainable City USA” in Kaufman, The Dallas Express reported.

Several residents and Rep. Keith Self expressed concern about potential Islamic influence, citing the developer’s history of prominent mosques in previous cities. Paxton launched an investigation and pledged to stop any “Sharia city.”

Lt. Gov Dan Patrick recently asked the state Senate to hold interim hearings on EPIC City and Sharia law.

The Council on American Islamic Relations-Texas sent a letter to Patrick and state senators on February 9, urging them to reverse course. The group emphasized that the U.S. Constitution, Texas Constitution, and existing laws already apply.

“We support equal rights, equal protection, and the rule of law as envisioned by the Founders and guaranteed by our constitutions,” the group wrote.

CAIR-Texas then claimed the problem of Sharia law “does not exist” in the state, saying the religious code only applies to personal conduct and not civil authority in Texas.

“There is no parallel judicial system operating in Texas,” the group wrote. “The best way to defeat a ghost is not to chase it endlessly, but to recognize that it is not real.”

The next day, Patrick vowed to continue the hearings, as The Dallas Express reported. He pointed to Gov. Greg Abbott’s 2025 designation of CAIR as a foreign terrorist organization, which cited the group’s ties to Hamas.

“I will get to the bottom of the ‘EPIC City’ and ‘Sharia Law’ issues in Texas,” Patrick wrote at the time.

Source: dallasexpress.com

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https://dallasexpress.com/national/rep-brandon-gill-radical-islam-is-alien-ideology-that-seeks-to-dominate-american-life/

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China Reacts To United States Allegation Of Sponsoring Terrorism In Nigeria

February 13, 2026

The Chinese government has denied allegations by the United States that it is sponsoring illegal mining in Nigeria.

Naija News reports that five US Congressmen had, in a bill, accused Chinese nationals involved in “illegal mining” operations of paying terrorists for protection.

The bill titled “Nigeria Religious Freedom and Accountability Act of 2026” linked Chinese illegal mining to terrorism funding in Nigeria.

The lawmakers are: Riley Moore of West Virginia, Chris Smith (New Jersey), Bill Huizenga (Michigan), Brian Mast (Florida), and Mario Diaz-Balart (Florida).

According to the lawmakers, the bill aimed at addressing what they described as ongoing religious persecution and mass atrocities in Nigeria.

“The Secretary of State should work with the Government of Nigeria to counteract the hostile foreign exploitation of Chinese illegal mining operations and their destabilising practice of paying protection money to Fulani militias,” the five lawmakers stated in their bill.

However, in a statement on Thursday, the Chinese embassy in Nigeria declared that the majority of Chinese mining companies in the country have set an “exemplary record of compliance with Nigerian laws and regulations.”

The embassy rejected the claim that it was funding radical Islamic groups and ethnic militias to protect its mining interests by “paying protection money to specific militias.”

“We express our firm opposition and strong dissatisfaction, and request that the relevant media immediately cease spreading such false information,” the statement read in part.

The Embassy noted that China requires all its nationals to abide by the Nigerian mining regulations, adding that the country has “zero tolerance for mining companies involved in any illegal activities.

“The overwhelming majority of Chinese mining companies in Nigeria have set an exemplary record of compliance with Nigerian laws and regulations.

“They actively give back to local communities, fulfil their social responsibilities, protect the natural environment, and have made positive contributions to deepening bilateral mining cooperation, supporting local economic development, and creating employment opportunities,” it declared.

Source: naijanews.com

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https://www.naijanews.com/2026/02/13/china-reacts-to-united-states-allegation-of-sponsoring-terrorism-in-nigeria/

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Conference of Rulers discusses security, Islamic affairs, judicial appointments

12 Feb 2026

KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 12 — National security and defence, Islamic affairs, education welfare, judicial appointments and international trade were among the matters discussed at the 271st Meeting of the Conference of Rulers (MRR), which was held over two days at Istana Negara.

Keeper of the Rulers’ Seal Tan Sri Syed Danial Syed Ahmad said the Conference was presented with the latest briefing on national security by Inspector-General of Police Datuk Seri Mohd Khalid Ismail, while Chief of Defence Force General Datuk Malek Razak Sulaiman delivered a briefing on national defence.

He said the meeting also discussed reports and proposals from the Rulers and Governors Scholarship Fund Board, which was established more than 40 years ago through contributions from the Rulers to benefit selected students receiving scholarships and royal awards at all public institutions of higher learning.

“The Rulers also expressed their appreciation to His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, for granting RM1.3 million in 2025 to support the fund,” he said in a statement today.

On the administration of Islamic affairs in each state, Syed Danial said the Conference discussed the appointment of members to the National Council for Islamic Religious Affairs (MKI), halal certification, management of special Federal Government allocations for the maintenance and upgrading of Islamic educational institutions, as well as the implementation and achievements of ‘takmir’ programmes nationwide.

“The Rulers also consented to Sultan of Perak Sultan Nazrin Shah continuing to chair the MKI for a further two-year term,” he said.

Syed Danial said the 271st meeting also examined policy papers on proposed amendments to the Aboriginal Peoples Act 1954 relating to land matters, as well as the Online Safety Act 2025.

He said the Conference further considered proposed appointments of judges to the High Court, Court of Appeal and Federal Court, in addition to other appointments requiring the consideration of the Conference of Rulers, including those involving the Board of Governors of the Malay College Kuala Kangsar.

On trade matters, Syed Danial said the Conference was briefed on and given explanations regarding several issues related to the Agreement on Reciprocal Trade (ART) between Malaysia and the United States.

The 271st Meeting of the Conference of Rulers, which concluded yesterday, was chaired by the Sultan of Terengganu Sultan Mizan Zainal Abidin. — Bernama

Source: malaymail.com

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Reuters: US weapons and female bombers boost Baloch insurgent capabilities

By Fidel Rahmati

February 12, 2026

A Reuters report says Baloch insurgents have increased their operational strength partly through access to US military equipment left behind in Afghanistan.

The Baloch Liberation Army recently carried out coordinated attacks across multiple areas in Balochistan, targeting Pakistani military facilities and causing heavy casualties.

Pakistani officials said security forces killed dozens of militants in response, while also confirming deaths among soldiers and civilians during the clashes.

Officials and analysts say insurgents are increasingly deploying women in suicide missions to gain attention and widen recruitment and propaganda impact.

Pakistan’s military says hundreds of US-made weapons and night-vision devices have been recovered from militants, showing increased access to advanced equipment.

Violence in resource-rich but underdeveloped Balochistan has surged over the past year, raising concerns about regional stability and major foreign investment projects.

Islamabad has repeatedly accused militant groups of operating from Afghan territory, a claim denied by Taliban authorities, while tensions continue over regional security.

According to the report, growing militant capabilities and evolving recruitment strategies could further complicate Pakistan’s long-running insurgency in Balochistan if security conditions worsen.

Source: khaama.com

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https://www.khaama.com/reuters-us-weapons-and-female-bombers-boost-baloch-insurgent-capabilities/

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India

 

 Mandating recitation of Vande Mataram is unconstitutional and unacceptable: AIMPLB

February 12, 2026

The All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) has strongly objected to the Central government’s recent notification mandating the recitation of all verses of Vande Mataram at official functions and in schools before the National Anthem, Jana Gana Mana.

 

The Board has termed the decision unconstitutional and contrary to religious freedom.

In a press statement here on Thursday, Board’s General Secretary Maulana Mohammed Fazlur Rahim Mujaddidi expressed strong opposition to the government’s decision, calling it unconstitutional, against religious freedom and secular values, contrary to Supreme Court judgment, and directly conflicting with the religious beliefs of Muslims. He stated that the decision is therefore completely unacceptable to Muslims.

The Maulana noted that, following Rabindranath Tagore’s advice and deliberations in the Constituent Assembly, it had been agreed that only the first two stanzas of Vande Mataram would be used. He said that a secular government cannot forcibly impose the beliefs or teachings of one religion upon followers of other religions.

He added that the song was written in the context of Bengal and contains references to the worship veneration of Durga and other deities. Whatever the political considerations behind implementing this decision ahead of the West Bengal elections, Muslims cannot accept it, as it directly conflicts with their faith. A Muslim worships only One God, Allah, without partners, and Islam does not permit any form of associating partners with God.

The General Secretary further stated that Indian courts have also held that the other verses are inconsistent with secular values and have restricted their recitation. Therefore, the Board demands that the Central government immediately withdraw the notification; otherwise, the Board will challenge it in the court.

Source: thestatesman.com

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VHP: Construction of Babri Masjid in Murshidabad no less than a challenge

Feb 13, 2026

Lucknow: A day after suspended Trinamool Congress MLA and Janata Unnayan Party chief Humayun Kabir initiated the construction of the controversial ‘Babri Majid' in Murshidabad district of West Bengal, VHP President Alok Kumar said on Thursday that the step was no less than "a challenge thrown at the entire Hindu community".

"We gathered that the people behind the construction of the mosque said that if anyone opposing the so-called Babri masjid came to the site, he or she would be beheaded and they would play football with the head. Obviously, the intention is to create disharmony and hatred between the two communities and incite riots," Kumar said while speaking to TOI on Thursday. Kumar, nevertheless, noted that the suspension of Kabir from TMC meant that the understanding of the VHP and West Bengal CM and party chief Mamta Banerjee was "same". He said that the VHP made two appeals to the Mamata govt: first, register an FIR against those behind the construction of the Babri masjid; and second, persuade them not to name the mosque as such. "That's the extent we would like to go as of now," he said. Kabir laid the foundation stone of the mosque on Dec 6, last year, the anniversary of the Babri Masjid demolition in Ayodhya.

The estranged MLA described the new mosque as a "tribute to Muslim sentiment" and a constitutional right. The mosque, which reportedly received funding from various regions, including Bangladesh and the Middle East, is expected to be completed in two years on an 11-acre site in Beldanga in Murshidabad.

A senior VHP functionary said that during the peak of the Ram Janambhoomi movement in the early 1990s, the seers took a resolve: "Mandir wahin, masjid nahin, Babri kahin nahin…". "And we would abide by their resolve," a senior VHP leader said, hinting that the construction of the Babri Mosque in Murshidabad would be opposed tooth and nail. As a matter of fact, the VHP also opposed the construction of the proposed new mosque in Ayodhya, stressing that the religious site may be developed "outside Ayodhya". However, the Supreme Court junked the VHP appeal. "We respect the Supreme Court judgement and accept it," Kumar said.

Officially named the Mohammad Bin Abdullah Masjid, the planned mosque complex is located in Dhannipur village, approximately 25 km from the original Babri Masjid site. Following the 2019 Supreme Court verdict, the 5-acre site was allotted to the UP Sunni Central Waqf Board, with construction expected to commence around April this year. The project, managed by the Indo-Islamic Cultural Foundation (IICF), is planned to include a hospital, library, and research centre.

Source: indiatimes.com

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Supreme Court plea seeks Article 25 protection for Hindus against hate speech

13.02.26

An application has been moved in the Supreme Court arguing that Hindus too are entitled to the constitutional protection of their religious beliefs and practices under Article 25 and insulated from hate speeches by members of other communities.

The application has been moved by Satish Kumar Aggarwal, former vice-president of the Akhil Bharat Hindu Mahasabha, in connection with a batch of petitions filed by individuals and organisations seeking strict action against those indulging in hate speech.

“That the applicant further submits that members of the Hindu community, like members of other communities, are equally entitled to protection from speech that promotes enmity, violence, or social boycott. Any speech that incites hatred or violence against any religious group, including Hindus or Muslims, is violative of statutory and constitutional provisions and must be dealt with strictly in accordance with law,” the intervention application filed through advocate Barun Kumar Sinha stated.

According to the application, which has sought the court’s permission for intervening in the pending case, hate speech, irrespective of the identity of the speaker or the community targeted, undermines constitutional values enshrined in Articles 14 (equality), 15 (non-discrimination), 19 (freedom of speech), 21 (life and personal liberty) and 25 (respective religious rights) of the Constitution.

“...The applicant submits that the issue requires a balanced, community-neutral and constitutionally consistent approach,” the application pleaded.

Source: telegraphindia.com

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Hindu transgenders plan to anoint ‘Kinnar Shankaracharya’ in Bhopal amid ‘Kinnar Jihad’ allegations

February 12, 2026

Accusing Muslim transgenders of carrying out a ‘kinnar jihad’ (transgender jihad) and their links with terror funding in Pakistan and Bangladesh, several groups of Hindu transgenders across India have decided to constitute their own Peeth and anoint the country’s very first Kinnar Shankaracharya at a grand ceremony scheduled to be held at Bhopal in Madhya Pradesh on the occasion of Mahashivratri on 15 February.

Led by Rishi Ajay Das and transgender leader Kajal Thakur, the event also aims to appoint 10 transgender Mahamandaleshwars under the Shankaracharya across India, and conduct the ‘ghar waapsi’ (homecoming) of more than 200 Hindu transgenders, who were allegedly converted to Islam forcefully.

Das is the founder of the country’s first and only ‘Kinnar Akhada’. Thakur is a transgender leader from Bhopal.

Both have alleged that Muslim transgenders have been heading a ‘kinnar jihad’ for a long time, and they have forced many Hindu transgenders to convert to Islam. Thakur has also alleged that such Muslim transgenders have links with terror funding in Pakistan and Bangladesh.

The Hindu transgenders have decided that their first Peeth would be based at Pushkar in Rajasthan, and it would be the seat of their own Shankaracharya. Pushkar has been chosen, as it is the only place in India to have a temple dedicated to Lord Brahma, considered in Hinduism as the creator of the universe, time, and all life forms.

Das and Thakur informed some media persons on Wednesday that the Kinnar Shankaracharya would be anointed through popular choice by religious and spiritual transgender leaders, along with several Sanatani Hindu kinnars from across the country. They said the move is aimed at protecting the Sanatan Dharma and its followers in the transgender community.

Meanwhile, Hindu religious leaders like Swami Avimukteshwaranand Saraswati of the Jyotishpeeth, and Mahant Hari Giri Maharaj, General Secretary of the Akhil Bharatiya Akhada Parishad, have criticized the move of transgenders to anoint a kinnar Shankaracharya. The Hindu religious leaders have argued that Adi Shankaracharya had established only four Hindu Peeths, and so there can be legally only four Shankaracharyas in the Sanatan Dharma.

On Tuesday, a large group of Hindu transgenders had staged a protest at the Collector’s Office in Bhopal, alleging that Muslim transgender leader Haji Suraiya Naik was involved in ‘kinnar jihad’ and had forcibly converted many Hindu transgenders to Islam. The protesters also claimed that Haji Suraiya and her group were involved in terror funding to Pakistan and Bangladesh. They also alleged that many Bangladeshi ‘fake transgenders’ are also active in India.

The Hindu transgenders had submitted a memorandum carrying their complaints and demands to Additional District Magistrate (ADM) Prakash Nayak. The administrative authorities took the memorandum and assured to carry out an inquiry into the matter.

Source: thestatesman.com

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Suspended TMC MLA Humayun Kabir holds 22 km ‘Babri Yatra’ day after mosque replica construction begins

Tanusree Bose

Feb 12, 2026

A day after suspended Trinamool Congress (TMC) MLA Humayun Kabir commenced construction of a Babri Masjid replica at Beldanga in West Bengal’s Murshidabad, the Janata Unayan Party chairman on Thursday led a rally from Palashi to the site of the proposed mosque.

Initially, Kabir’s ‘Babri Yatra’ was to begin from Palashi in Nadia district and travel 265 kilometres to Itahar in North Dinajpur district, with 100 vehicles carrying six people each. The yatra, however, was cancelled due to the ongoing state board higher secondary or Class 12 examinations.

Kabir had said that the Malda police had asked him to postpone the rally. Instead, he led a smaller one on Thursday, covering 22 km from Palashi Monument to Beldanga. The rally began with a bike procession up to Rejinagar, followed by a foot march to Beldanga. A local police official said that Kabir did not have police permission for the rally.

Defending the construction of the mosque, Kabir told the media, “If one builds a Durga Angana, Jagannath temple in Digha, or a Kali temple, then that is legal, and if we Muslims build a mosque, then that is illegal. If a child is born in my house, I will decide what name to give—Babar or Saddam—this freedom I have from the Constitution of this country. I will not take any advice from [US President] Donald Trump or Modi ji [PM Narendra Modi] or Yogi [Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath] or Mamata Banerjee.”

Pointing out that the final voters’ list following the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls is due to be published on February 28, Kabir alleged that while most names deleted have been those of Hindus, Muslims were being singled out and harassed through repeated hearings.

“I will ensure that Mamata Banerjee loses elections, and the BJP also does not get to rule over Bengal. From the beginning, Mamata Banerjee and her administration kept posing problems in the building of the Babri Masjid along with some minority groups,” he claimed.

Former BJP state president Dilip Ghosh said that nobody could win elections by building a “Babri Masjid lookalike mosque”. “If he wants to win, let him first work for the development of the minorities, which neither Mamata Banerjee nor the Congress have done. If people feel he has worked, they will vote for him,” Ghosh added.

Kolkata Mayor Firhad Hakim echoed the sentiment. “We have no issues with who builds temples or mosques, but one who is building a religious place should not have any political interests linked with it. One should win votes on their work,” Hakim said.

Kabir laid the foundation stone for a mosque modelled on Ayodhya’s Babri Masjid on December 6 last year.

Source: indianexpress.com

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From ‘Khan vs Ban’ to its first Muslim mayor: Parbhani turns Shiv Sena’s history on its head

Vallabh Ozarkar, Zeeshan Shaikh

Feb 13, 2026

Shiv Sena (UBT)’s Syed Iqbal Syed Khwaja was elected mayor of Parbhani on Thursday, becoming the first Muslim leader to be nominated for the post by the Shiv Sena since the party was formed in the 1960s. The 40-year-old first-time corporator won with the support of the Congress, defeating BJP candidate Tirumala Khilare in a direct contest.

Syed secured 39 votes in the 65-member Parbhani Municipal Corporation, while Khilare got 26. The majority mark in the House is 33. With this win, Parbhani is the only municipal corporation where the Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena faction has managed to form the civic government.

Parbhani was one of the first places where the Shiv Sena openly used religious division to win elections. In the late 1980s and early 1990s, the party ran campaigns that clearly pitched Hindu voters against Muslim candidates.

In the 1990 Assembly elections, Shiv Sena candidate Hanumant Bobde won from Parbhani after the Congress fielded a Muslim candidate, Shamim Ahmed Khan. Another Opposition candidate split the non-Sena vote, helping Bobde win. The campaign is remembered for the slogan “Khan viruddh Ban” (Khan versus the bow and arrow), which openly framed the contest along religious lines.

After that election, Parbhani became a stronghold of the Shiv Sena, and the party continued to hold the Assembly seat till date.

Today, the Shiv Sena (UBT) is in a very different situation. After the party split, the Uddhav Thackeray faction had to rebuild its base and look for support beyond its traditional voters.

In Parbhani, this shift was unavoidable. Around 42 per cent of the city’s population is Muslim, making it one of the largest Muslim-majority urban areas in Maharashtra.

In the recent municipal elections, Shiv Sena (UBT) gave tickets to many Muslim candidates. Out of the 25 corporators the party elected, 13 are Muslims, including Syed Iqbal.

Shiv Sena (UBT) emerged as the largest party in the 65-member municipal corporation with 25 seats. Congress and BJP won 12 seats each, while the Ajit Pawar-led NCP won 11. Together, the Shiv Sena (UBT) and Congress had 37 members.

Who is Syed Iqbal

First-time corporator Syed Iqbal Syed Khwaja is a local activist and the younger brother of Syed Abdul Khadar, a businessman and social worker with strong influence in Parbhani’s Muslim areas.

Khadar was earlier associated with the AIMIM and is close to Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Jadhav, also known as Bandu Jadhav. Jadhav played a key role in reaching out to Muslim voters during the municipal elections. Party leaders say Syed Iqbal’s elevation was also a way to acknowledge that effort.

After his election, Syed said he would work with all communities and focus only on development.

“I am not a Muslim mayor. I am the mayor of everyone. People from all communities voted for me. My only concern is development,” he said.

On Shiv Sena’s past communal image, Syed said political parties change over time. “The aim now is to bring people together, not divide them,” he said.

The BJP criticised the Shiv Sena (UBT) for choosing a Muslim mayor. BJP leader Navnath Ban accused the party of abandoning its talk of Marathi pride and claimed it was “pushing Aurangzeb’s agenda”.

“During elections, they speak about ‘Marathi pride’, but when they got the opportunity to appoint their only mayor, they chose a Muslim candidate,” Ban said.

Maharashtra Congress president Harshvardhan Sapkal said the party voted for the Shiv Sena (UBT) candidate to keep the BJP out of power and to uphold alliance commitments.

Sapkal also referred to tensions within the alliance after the Chandrapur municipal election, where Shiv Sena (UBT) supported the BJP. Despite this, he said Congress chose not to retaliate in Parbhani and stood by the alliance.

“We kicked away power to uphold alliance dharma and stood by Shiv Sena (UBT). The developments in Chandrapur and Parbhani have made it clear that Shiv Sena (UBT) seeks Congress votes within the alliance but does not reciprocate,” Sapkal said.

Source: indianexpress.com

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https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/mumbai/first-muslim-mayor-parbhani-turns-shiv-senas-history-on-head-10529105/

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Senior Supreme Court advocates buy memberships at 'Mohammad' Deepak's gym after business hit by row

12 Feb 2026

NEW DELHI: Around a dozen senior advocates of the Supreme Court have taken up the cause of Deepak Kumar, whose 'Hulk' gym in Uttarakhand's Kotdwara, once a bustling hub with over 150 members, has been deserted by all but a few regulars after a heated row over a shop name, sources said.

Deepak Kumar, the 42-year-old gym owner, earlier told PTI that his business had collapsed since he confronted Bajrang Dal activists protesting against a garment shop named 'Baba', and identified himself as 'Mohammad Deepak'.

He said the ongoing tension made his livelihood a casualty of the dispute.

A lawyer, who did not wish to be named, said that around 12 senior advocates of the Supreme Court purchased the gym’s membership for a year after paying a fee of Rs 10,000 each.

The membership card carrying the name of the original contributor would be provided to local gym enthusiasts who were unable to pay the fees, the lawyer said.

"Earlier, over 150 people used to train at my gym. Since this dispute began, the headcount has dwindled to just 12-15,” Kumar had told PTI, adding that regulars were staying away to avoid the friction.

Now Deepak has also been offered pro bono legal representation by some other advocates, the lawyer said.

“The legal fraternity is in solidarity with Deepak,” said another advocate.

On January 26, Bajrang Dal activists protested outside the 'Baba' clothing store on Patel Marg in Kotdwar to pressure its 70-year-old owner, Vakil Ahmed, to change the name of the shop.

During the protest, clashes broke out between the Bajrang Dal members, Vakil Ahmed, and his son's friend Deepak Kumar, after which Kumar, identifying himself as Mohammad Deepak, forced the protesters to retreat.

Fresh concerns emerged following a viral video by the Hindu Raksha Dal, in which a man could be seen threatening to march to Kotdwara on February 12 to "teach Deepak a lesson".

Local authorities have maintained a strict vigil on the matter to prevent further escalation.

Source: newindianexpress.com

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UN Security Council report links Pakistan-based terror group Jaish-e-Mohammed to Red Fort attack in Delhi

13.02.26

A United Nations Security Council (UNSC) report has highlighted links between the Pakistan-based terror group Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and the deadly attack on the Red Fort in New Delhi last November that killed 15 people.

“One Member State noted that Jaish-i-Mohammed had claimed responsibility for a series of attacks. It was also reported to be linked to an attack on the Red Fort in New Delhi on November 9 that killed 15 people,” the 37th report of the Analytical Support and Sanctions Monitoring Team submitted to the Security Council 1267 Sanctions Committee concerning ISIL and Al-Qaida said.

The report, issued in New Delhi, added that on October 8, JeM leader Mohammed Masood Azhar Alvi “formally announced the establishment of a women-only wing, Jamaat ul-Muminat, which was aimed at supporting terrorist attacks.” It also noted that even as another member state claimed Jaish-e-Mohammed was defunct, “Separately, it was reported that on July 28, three individuals allegedly involved in the attack perpetrated in Pahalgam, in Jammu and Kashmir, were killed.”

The Red Fort attack involved a deadly, high-intensity explosion that ripped through a slow-moving car at a traffic signal near the Red Fort metro station, killing about 15 people and injuring several others.

At his weekly briefing in New Delhi on Thursday, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal addressed the UNSC report, stating:"This particular report that you refer to, it is available in the public domain. It is online. This was the 37th Report of the Analytical Support and Sanctions Monitoring Team. This was published on February 4, 2026."

He added: "And, we have seen that they have taken on board our inputs, India's inputs in regard to our concern on cross-border terrorism, and also as to how we can strengthen the global fight against terrorism."

The UNSC report also highlighted the continuing presence of Al-Qaida in the Indian Subcontinent (AQIS) in south-eastern Afghanistan, where the Haqqani Network holds significant influence. Osama Mahmoud, the “emir” of AQIS, and his deputy Yahya Ghauri were reported to be in Kabul, with the AQIS media cell based in Herat.

“There were concerns that AQIS was increasingly focused on external operations. Such operations would likely be unclaimed or deniable operations, perhaps as part of the umbrella group Ittihad-ul-Mujahideen Pakistan…so as not to create difficulties for the Taliban as hosts of AQIS,” the report said.

Meanwhile, ISIL-K continued to operate mainly in northern Afghanistan, particularly in Badakhshan and areas close to the Pakistani border. It has been expanding its network of cells to project a regional and international threat.

“Aggressive propaganda by ISIL-K in Central Asian languages expanded its target audience. It sought to exploit issues such as the Gaza and Israel conflict to promote recruitment and financing,” the UNSC report added.

Source: telegraphindia.com

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Mideast

 

Trump plans to announce Gaza funding plan, troops at first Board of Peace meeting, US officials say

February 12, 2026

WASHINGTON: President Donald Trump will announce a multi-billion dollar reconstruction plan for Gaza and detail plans for a UN-authorized stabilization force for the Palestinian enclave at the first formal meeting of his Board of Peace next week, two senior US officials said on Thursday.

Delegations from at least 20 countries, including many heads of state, are expected to attend the meeting in Washington, D.C., which Trump will chair on February 19, the officials told Reuters on condition of anonymity.

The details on Trump’s plans for the first meeting of his Board of Peace for Gaza have not been previously reported.

Trump signed documents in Davos, Switzerland, on January ‌23 establishing the Board ‌of Peace. The board’s creation was endorsed by a United ‌Nations ⁠Security Council resolution ⁠as part of Trump’s Gaza plan.

While regional Middle East powers, including Turkiye, Egypt, Saudi Arabia and Qatar, as well as major emerging nations such as Indonesia, have joined the board, global powers and traditional Western US allies have been more cautious.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Wednesday during his visit to Washington that Israel has joined the board.

Trump has stirred concerns that the Board of Peace might try to resolve other conflicts around the world and compete ⁠with the United Nations.

The US officials said the meeting next ‌week will focus solely on Gaza. They said a ‌central part of the meeting will be Trump’s announcement of a multi-billion-dollar fund for Gaza, which ‌will include monetary contributions from participating board members.

One official called the offers “generous” and said ‌that the United States had not made any explicit requests for donations. “People have come to us offering,” the official said.

“The president will make announcements vis a vis the money raised.”

Stabilization force

Deployment of the International Stabilization Force is a key part of the next phase of Trump’s Gaza plan, announced ‌in September. Under the first phase, a fragile ceasefire in the two-year-old war began on October 10 and Hamas has released hostages ⁠while Israel has ⁠freed detained Palestinians.

Trump will announce that several countries plan to provide several thousand troops to the stabilization force that is expected to deploy in Gaza in the months ahead, the officials said.

A primary concern for now is disarming Hamas fighters who have been reluctant to give up their weapons. Under Trump’s Gaza plan, Hamas members who commit to peaceful co-existence and to decommission their weapons will be given amnesty. Members of Hamas who wish to leave Gaza will be provided safe passage to receiving countries, under the plan.

The Board of Peace meetings will also include detailed reports on the work of the National Committee for the Administration of Gaza, which was established to take over the day-to-day civil administration of Gaza Strip from Hamas. The committee announced its members and held its first meeting in January.

Other updates will cover humanitarian aid for Gaza as well as the Gaza police, the officials said.

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Palestinians look to salvage Gaza’s history from the ruins of Israel’s military offensive

February 13, 2026

GAZA CITY: Muneer Elbaz remembers the joy of visiting the Great Omari Mosque in Gaza with his family, praying at a site where people have worshipped over centuries as empires came and went.

“These were the best days,” Elbaz said, as he recalled promenading through the lively markets around the mosque before the Israel-Hamas war. “This place transports us from one era to another.”

Today, much of the mosque stands in ruins – like most of Gaza – after being hit by Israeli strikes in the two-year war muffled by an uncertain ceasefire. The sight of the rubble brings to mind “a tree that had been uprooted from the land,” said Elbaz, a Palestinian heritage consultant involved with recovery work at the site.

Israel’s military offensive killed over 72,000 Palestinians, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry, and erased entire extended families.

Gone too is some of the heritage of a land with a rich history going back to ancient times. The mosque was built on a site where a Byzantine church had stood, and changed hands and even religions as one invader followed another.

With major military operations halted, Palestinians are gaining a clearer picture of the destruction. Some organizations are trying to save what they can at historical sites, even as full-scale restoration – and the broader reconstruction of the territory – face major obstacles.

Dozens of sites were damaged

Israel launched its offensive after Hamas-led militants killed some 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and took another 251 hostage in the Oct. 7, 2023, attack. The military accuses Hamas of concealing military assets beneath or near heritage sites, as well as other civilian structures.

The UN cultural agency, in an ongoing assessment based on satellite images, says it has verified damage to at least 150 sites since the start of the war. They include 14 religious sites, 115 buildings of historical or artistic interest, nine monuments and eight archaeological sites.

They are fragments of Gaza’s soul, connecting Palestinians to a place and a history that many fear is at risk of being erased.

“These sites were an important element that solidifies the presence of the Palestinian people on this land and that represents the continuity of their cultural identity,” said Issam Juha, co-director of the Center for Cultural Heritage Preservation, based in the Israeli-occupied West Bank.

“They want to erase the Palestinian identity and Palestinian heritage and ... to remove any connection that keeps the Palestinian society clinging to this land,” he said.

The center is doing urgent rescue work at the badly damaged Pasha Palace, which housed centuries-old artifacts, many of which appear to have been looted, Juha said. Among the missing items are an Ottoman-era Qur’anic manuscript, jewelry from the medieval Mamluk era and a Roman-era sarcophagus from which only some fragments have been recovered, according to Hamouda Al-Dohdar, an expert working at the site.

The Israeli military said it struck “a Hamas military compound and an anti-tank missile array” at the site. It said its forces struck a “terror tunnel” at the Omari mosque. It did not provide evidence in either case.

Amir Abu Al-Omrain, an official with Gaza’s endowments ministry, part of the Hamas-run government, denied the allegation about the mosque.

UNESCO does not have a mandate to assign responsibility for the damage it assesses.

An independent commission established by the UN’s Human Rights Council said it was not aware of any evidence of a tunnel shaft in the mosque. Noting the Israeli allegations about the mosque, it said that even the presence of a “legitimate military objective … would not have justified the resulting damage.” Israel has previously accused the commission of bias.

The centuries-old Saint Porphyrius Orthodox church complex, which had been sheltering displaced Palestinians, was also hit in an Israeli attack early in the war, causing deaths and injuries. The military said it had targeted a nearby Hamas command center. UNESCO said the church complex was moderately damaged.

Some of Gaza’s heritage sites appear to have been spared. UNESCO said it has found no evidence of damage at the Saint Hilarion Monastery, dating to the 4th century.

Under international law, cultural property should not be targeted or used for military purposes.

The Israeli military says it takes the sensitivity of cultural and religious sites into account, aims to minimize damage to civilian infrastructure and adheres to international law.

A rich history

Artifacts and accounts stretching back thousands of years testify to Gaza’s long history of commerce and conflict. Egypt’s pharaohs sent chariots through the low-lying coastal strip in their wars with the Hittites in modern-day Turkiye. Traders in Gaza did brisk business with the ancient Greeks.

The Omari mosque, named for Islam’s second caliph, was initially built in the seventh century. Centuries later, the Crusaders converted it into a cathedral, and it went back to being a mosque after they were expelled, said Stephennie Mulder, associate professor of Islamic art at the University of Texas at Austin.

The mosque was damaged during World War I, when the British shelled Gaza in their campaign against the Ottoman Turks, and was later rebuilt.

“The building itself told the story of Gaza’s past as a crossroads of trade, armies, empires, and religious traditions,” said Mulder. “For many Gazans, the Omari mosque stood as a beloved symbol of multiplicity, resilience and persistence.”

More than stones

Mohammad Shareef, 62, remembers attending prayers at the mosque with his father when he was a child, and studying for exams in its quiet confines. Years later, he would bring his own children there. He wept when it was hit.

“We were raised in it and around it, and there’s no stone here that we haven’t stepped on,” he said. “For the people of Gaza, this is their history.”

The loss will feel particularly acute during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, which begins later this month. Before the war, thousands converged on the mosque for Ramadan prayers amid a festive atmosphere. This year, a large tented structure has been erected.

In recent days, workers have been filling wheelbarrows in the shadow of a damaged minaret.

Hosni Almazloum, an engineer working at the site, said the mosque’s prayer hall ceiling had collapsed and columns had crumbled. He said it could be rebuilt, if construction supplies are allowed in. For now, teams have been focused on recovery and preventing further damage, sifting through and storing stones.

The US-brokered ceasefire agreement, which halted most of the fighting in October, gives no timeline for Gaza’s reconstruction, which may prove impossible if Israel maintains the blockade it imposed on the territory when Hamas seized power in 2007, after the militant group won Palestinian elections in 2006.

Many historic sites suffered from neglect before the war. The blockade and previous Israel-Hamas wars, along with a lack of resources and urban sprawl, posed challenges. Hamas-run authorities have leveled parts of what archaeologists believe was a Bronze Age settlement to make way for construction projects.

Elbaz says that before the ceasefire, grief was a luxury he couldn’t afford – his family was just trying to survive.

“What would you begin to cry over?” he asked. “The historic mosques or your home or your history or your children’s schools or the streets?”

Now, as he processes the war’s toll, he sometimes weeps, away from the eyes of his children.

“Gaza is our mother,” he said. “We have memories everywhere – in this tree, this flower, this garden and this mosque. Yes, we cry over every part of Gaza.”

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Palestinian paramedic from Gaza dies in Israeli prison

February 13, 2026

LONDON: Hatem Rayan, a Palestinian paramedic from Gaza, has died at the notorious Israeli Negev detention center, the Palestinian Authority’s General Authority of Civil Affairs said on Thursday.

He had been held there since his arrest on Dec. 27, 2024, according to the Commission of Detainees and Ex-Detainees Affairs, and the Palestinian Prisoners Society.

He was arrested at Kamal Adwan Hospital along with his injured son, Muath, who remains in custody, the Palestinian WAFA news agency reported.

Rayan is one of more than 100 prisoners and detainees who have died in Israeli prisons since the start of the war in Gaza in October 2023. Only 88 of them have been officially identified, 52 of whom were from Gaza. The total number of Palestinian prisoners who have died in Israeli custody since 1967 now stands at 325, the prisoners’ rights groups added.

Rayan was detained when Israeli forces stormed the Kamal Adwan Hospital, the largest medical facility in northern Gaza. They carried out a forced evacuation of patients and staff, and arrested its director, Dr. Hussam Abu Safiya. He remains detained without charge.

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Yemen PM Al-Zindani to Asharq Al-Awsat: Govt. to move to Aden soon, Foreign Ministry retained to complete reforms

ASHARQ AL-AWSAT

February 12, 2026

RIYADH: Yemen’s Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Dr. Shaya Al-Zindani, has signaled the first concrete move by his newly sworn-in government, announcing that it will relocate to Aden in the near future, just 24 hours after taking the constitutional oath.

In remarks to Asharq Al-Awsat, Al-Zindani said his decision to retain the foreign affairs portfolio was driven by the need “to complete the work already begun,” stressing that a return to Yemen is essential to restoring effective governance.

He noted that the move inside the country is a necessary step to activate performance, adding that a presence in Aden must be linked to a genuine ability to manage state files and restore regular institutional functioning.

The comments came during a special episode of the Asharq Al-Awsat Podcast, recorded at Asharq TV studios at the Saudi Research and Media Group headquarters in Riyadh’s King Abdullah Financial District.

Al-Zindani spoke at a time of acute economic pressure and heightened political expectations.

He said the current phase does not allow for expansive rhetoric, but rather requires gradual, practical work to rebuild confidence, noting that stabilizing institutional rhythm must precede any expansion of objectives.

Addressing questions on the composition of his cabinet, Al-Zindani highlighted that ministers were selected on purely professional criteria, based on competence, specialization, and experience, away from partisan dictates.

He emphasized that weak institutional foundations had been a central cause of past failures, underscoring the need to rebuild state structures and strengthen oversight.

He pointed to relative improvements in some public services, particularly electricity, with Saudi support, while noting that the real challenge lies in sustaining economic reforms and managing resources effectively.

On accountability, he argued that unifying political decision-making has opened the door to enforcing the rule of law. When authority is unified, reward and punishment become possible, he underlined.

On economic policy, Al-Zindani avoided quick promises, instead focusing on resource management and reprioritization.

Recovery, he said, cannot be achieved through piecemeal decisions but requires restructuring public finance, enhancing transparency, and activating oversight mechanisms.

He stressed that financial stability is the foundation for any tangible improvement in citizens’ lives and for restoring domestic and international confidence.

He continued that working from within Yemen will enable the government to better understand societal priorities and reassert the state’s presence in public life, an influence eroded by years of conflict.

He described taking the oath in Riyadh as a constitutional and security necessity dictated by circumstances, arguing that attention should focus on the substance of government action rather than symbolism.

On security, Al-Zindani adopted a cautious, realistic tone, acknowledging that years of accumulated challenges cannot be erased quickly.

Still, he said coordination among security agencies and unified political leadership have led to relative improvements.

While recognizing protests as part of transitional phases, he stressed the need for adherence to legal frameworks to preserve stability and avoid derailment of recovery efforts.

According to the Yemeni official, reorganizing the armed forces requires unified command and redeploying units outside cities to consolidate state authority and reduce overlap between military and security roles.

He noted that multiple loyalties in previous phases weakened institutions and must be overcome to restore stability.

Internationally, he said unified political representation strengthens Yemen’s legal and diplomatic standing.

He justified retaining the foreign ministry to complete reforms already underway, including restructuring the ministry and overseas missions, describing diplomatic normalization as integral to rebuilding the state.

He further described relations with Saudi Arabia as having evolved from traditional support into a multi-dimensional partnership impacting vital sectors, with scope to expand cooperation in development and economic stability.

On the Houthis, Al-Zindani said the government showed flexibility in peace efforts but faced repeated noncompliance, adding that recent military and economic developments have weakened the group’s position.

Any future negotiations, he stressed, must rest on clear references, with unified anti-Houthi forces giving the government a stronger negotiating hand amid rapid regional and international shifts.

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Abbas discusses Palestinian developments in Gaza, West Bank with Norwegian king

February 12, 2026

LONDON: President Mahmoud Abbas discussed the latest developments in the Occupied Palestinian Territories with King Harald V of Norway on Thursday.

Abbas recognized Norway’s financial, humanitarian, and development assistance to the Palestinian people, which ultimately led to the diplomatic recognition of a Palestinian state in May 2024.

Abbas discussed with King Harald the serious situation in the Palestinian regions of the West Bank and the Gaza Strip. He warned of the ongoing Israeli “policy of genocidal aggression, blockade and starvation against the Palestinian people,” in Gaza, according to the Wafa news agency.

He said that the Israeli government’s actions aim to weaken Palestinian institutions and hinder the two-state solution.

The meeting at the Royal Palace in Oslo included PLO Executive Committee Member Ziad Abu Amr, Presidential Diplomatic Adviser Majdi Al-Khalidi, and Ambassador Marie Antoinette Sedin, the representative of the State of Palestine to Norway.

Abbas is on a two-day official visit to strengthen ties and discuss developments in Palestine and the region, Wafa added.

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Syria evacuates flood-affected residents of displacement camps in Idlib

February 12, 2026

LONDON: Authorities from the Syrian Arab Republic have evacuated dozens of families from six displacement camps in western Idlib in the past two days after severe weather caused flooding and damage.

Raed Al-Saleh, the Syrian minister of emergency and disaster management, said 173 families had been moved from camps in Badama and Khirbet Al-Jouz to temporary shelter centers in Idlib Governorate.

Emergency teams have conducted drainage operations, cleared culverts within the camps, reopened more than 25 roads and 30 water channels, and removed five earthen berms as part of preparation for further weather systems, according to the Syrian Arab News Agency.

They are coordinating with the Ministry of Social Affairs and Labor, and the Idlib governor’s office to oversee the distribution of humanitarian aid.

A rubble removal and road restoration project in Jabal Al-Akrad in the Latakia Governorate has also been initiated to help facilitate residents’ return, the SANA added.

Heavy rainfall in northern and western Syria has resulted in flash floods since Saturday that have swept through areas near seasonal waterways in western Idlib Governorate. The floods have submerged several tents and prompted authorities to evacuate families and open temporary shelters for those displaced.

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German parliament speaker visits Gaza

February 12, 2026

BERLIN: The speaker of Germany’s lower house of parliament briefly visited the Israeli-controlled part of the Gaza Strip on Thursday, the body told AFP.

Julia Kloeckner spent “about an hour in the part of Gaza controlled by Israeli army forces,” parliament said, becoming the first German official to visit the territory since Hamas’s attack on Israel in October 2023 that sparked the devastating war.

Since the start of the conflict, Israel has drastically restricted access to the densely populated coastal strip.

In a statement shared by her office, Kloeckner said it was essential for politicians to have access to “reliable assessments of the situation” in Gaza.

“I expressly welcome the fact that Israel has now, for the first time, granted me, a parliamentary observer, access to the Gaza Strip,” she said.

However, she was only able to gain a “limited insight” into the situation on the ground during her trip, she said.

Kloeckner appealed to Israel to “continue on this path of openness” and emphasized that the so-called yellow line, which designates Israeli military zones inside the Gaza Strip, must “not become a permanent barrier.”

The German foreign ministry did not immediately respond to a request for comment from AFP.

Germany has been one of Israel’s staunchest supporters as the European power seeks to atone for the legacy of the Holocaust.

But in recent months, Chancellor Friedrich Merz has occasionally delivered sharp critiques of Israeli policy as German public opinion turns against Israel’s actions in Gaza.

In August, Germany imposed a partial arms embargo on Israel, which was lifted in November after the announcement of what has proved to be a fragile ceasefire for Gaza.

Merz visited Israel in December and reaffirmed Germany’s support.

But in a sign of lingering tension, Germany’s foreign ministry on Wednesday criticized Israeli plans to tighten control over the occupied West Bank as a step toward “de facto annexation.”

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Village in southern Lebanon buries a child and father killed in Israeli drone strike

February 12, 2026

YANOUH: Mourners in southern Lebanon on Tuesday buried a father and his young son killed in an Israeli drone strike that targeted a Hezbollah member.

Hassan Jaber, a police officer, and his child, Ali, were on foot when the strike on Monday hit a passing car in the center of their town, Yanouh, relatives said. Lebanon’s health ministry said the boy was 3 years old. Both were killed at the scene along with the car driver, Ahmad Salami, who the Israeli military said in a statement was an artillery official with the Lebanese militant group.

It said it was aware of a “claim that uninvolved civilians were killed” and that the case is under review, adding it “makes every effort to reduce the likelihood of harm” to civilians.

Salami, also from Yanouh, was buried in the village Tuesday along with the father and son.

“There are always people here, it’s a crowded area,” with coffee shops and corner stores, a Shiite religious gathering hall, the municipality building and a civil defense center, a cousin of the boy’s father, also named Hassan Jaber, told The Associated Press.

When the boy and his father were struck, he said, they were going to a bakery making Lebanese breakfast flatbread known as manakish to see how it was made. They were standing only about 5 meters (5.5 yards) from the car when it was struck, the cousin said.

“It is not new for the Israeli enemy to carry out such actions,” he said. “There was a car they wanted to hit and they struck it in the middle of this crowded place.”

Jaber said the little boy, Ali, had not yet entered school but “showed signs of unusual intelligence.”

“What did this innocent child do wrong, this angel?” asked Ghazaleh Haider, the wife of the boy’s uncle. “Was he a fighter or a jihadi?”

Attendees at the funeral carried photos of Ali, a striking child with large green eyes and blond hair. Some also carried flags of Hezbollah or Amal, a Shiite party that is allied with but also sometimes a rival of Hezbollah.

Lebanon’s Internal Security Forces, of which the child’s father was a member, said in a statement that the 37-year-old father of three had joined in 2013 and reached the rank of first sergeant.

The strike came as Israel has stepped up its campaign against Hezbollah and its allies in Lebanon.

The night before the strike in Yanouh, Israeli forces launched a rare ground raid in the Lebanese village of Hebbarieh, several kilometers (miles) from the border, in which they seized a local official with the Sunni Islamist group Al-Jamaa Al-Islamiya, or the Islamic Group in English. The group is allied with Hezbollah and the Palestinian militant group Hamas.

The low-level conflict between Lebanon and Israel escalated into full-scale war in September 2024, later reined in but not fully stopped by a US-brokered ceasefire two months later.

Since then, Israel has accused Hezbollah of trying to rebuild and has carried out near-daily strikes in Lebanon that it says target Hezbollah militants and facilities.

Israeli forces also continue to occupy five hilltop points on the Lebanese side of the border. Hezbollah has claimed one strike against Israel since the ceasefire.

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Arab World

 

Saudi youth turn to AI for art and culture

NADA ALTURKI

February 13, 2026

RIYADH: As Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 places creativity, culture and technological innovation at the core of national development, the impact of these priorities is becoming increasingly visible across a wide range of disciplines and practices.

Through the use of artificial intelligence, young Saudis are integrating technology into their creative work both as a practical tool and as a medium in its own right. In doing so, they are expanding their capabilities, exploring personal and collective identity, and finding new ways to preserve and reinterpret cultural heritage.

“AI gives young Saudis a new way to interact with their own cultural inheritance,” said Dmitry Zaytsev, founder of Dandelion Civilization, a platform designed to help individuals shape unique professional paths.

“Traditional design elements such as calligraphy or geometric motifs were once difficult to modify. Experimentation required resources and formal approval. AI removes that barrier and makes exploration immediate. A creator can test many versions of a pattern and see which ones still feel authentic to them,” he told Arab News.

According to Zaytsev, this emerging form of expression does not signal a rejection of tradition, but rather a deeper engagement with it. “The young creator discovers what can change and what must remain constant. AI becomes a sketchbook that allows culture to evolve through curiosity rather than fear. When creators correct a model or push it toward local rhythm, they strengthen rather than dilute cultural identity,” he explained.

Sarah AlBaiz, an art adviser, researcher and artist, uses code to blend visual art with concepts drawn from culture and philosophy. While her early practice focused primarily on painting, her trajectory shifted during the 2020 AI Artathon, a pioneering international event highlighting collaboration between humans and machines in artmaking, where she discovered how to merge her engineering background with her creative work.

Operating within the field of computational creativity, where technology actively participates in the artistic process, AlBaiz explores themes of finance and faith. “Because they’re two sides of who I am,” she said. “When you talk about values, for example, that is both a term used in finance and trade from an objective perspective, but also moral and spiritual value.”

“When you understand prompting in AI, you can get it to produce almost anything. But it’s also informed by the training data it has,” she said.

Rather than relying on a single platform, AlBaiz experiments with multiple AI models to test their limitations and audience reception. “I work a lot with language as well, so large language models are right up my street when it comes to computational creativity.”ee

Her work has gained international recognition. At the 2022 Islamic Arts Biennale in Jeddah, she co-created an artwork under the banner of Super Artistic AI that generated Al-Qatt Al-Asiri motifs from southern Saudi Arabia. The piece received an Audience Award.

Beyond her artistic practice, AlBaiz is developing an intelligent art advisory system aimed at helping users navigate the Saudi art landscape. Designed as an initial point of contact, the system would guide users through potential pathways before they engage with a human adviser.

“It’s about understanding what role AI plays in the pursuit of what you want,” she said. “When I decided to focus on Qantara and building the advisory, I recognized that many of the systems required would need to be intelligent systems that offload a lot of work from me and the team.”

“When AI is an enabler rather than the end result, it becomes less intimidating because it feels risk-free for the end user,” she added.

Zaytsev echoed this idea, describing AI as a kind of rehearsal space. “Young people practice conversations, explore sensitive topics and organize their thoughts without social risk. This builds emotional clarity and confidence,” he said.

While generative tools such as large language models attract much of the attention, AI’s creative applications extend far beyond text and image generation.

Fairooz Alawami, trained as both an architect and engineer, uses AI to create self-expressive visual works inspired by dance.

“My practice is focused on contextualizing movement,” she said. “Because of my architectural training, I work with 3D modeling software called Rhino, which includes a visual coding language. Within that environment, you can also write code in Python, JavaScript or C#.”

Alawami employs OpenPose to analyze videos of her dancing by mapping points across her body. She then applies another computer vision model, MIDAS, which converts images or videos into depth frames. “If OpenPose gives me a skeleton, MIDAS gives me depth,” she explained. The resulting data is fed into 3D modeling software, where it is refined and manipulated into finished artworks.

She began dancing at a young age. “I didn’t find it, it found me,” she said. Movement later became the foundation of her artistic practice, leading to her first major project around three years ago while completing her master’s degree using the Grasshopper plugin. At the time, the workflow was slow and fragmented, but the arrival of ChatGPT helped streamline the process by making it easier to write and learn code.

“I think my love for dance and my love for art and design came together in a way that felt uniquely me,” she said. “Once I found that space, I just ran with it. It is my singular voice.”

Her work also draws heavily on cultural and musical heritage. One recent project was inspired by folklore referenced in the iconic song “Al Leila wa Leila” by Umm Kulthum. Alawami extracted musical stems from the track and mapped them to characters within the narrative. “The vocals were Shahrazad, the storyteller, and each stem represented a different narrative element,” she said. Earlier works were influenced by Islamic architecture and the geometric patterns found throughout Saudi Arabia and the wider Arab world.

“There are some incredible artists using generative AI to do very impressive things, and I don’t think I fall into that camp,” she said. “For me, AI is more like a skills-gap tool that helps me reach where I want to go.

“As humans, whether we realize it or not, the act of creating feeds us in some way. Lowering the barrier to entry makes creativity less intimidating.”

Today, Saudi Arabia’s creative sector is supported by expanding national infrastructure. Initiatives such as the Cultural Scholarship Program place Saudi students in more than 60 universities worldwide, spanning disciplines from archaeology and literature to design, filmmaking and culinary arts. In parallel, the Kingdom launched the SAMAI initiative last year, aiming to equip 1 million Saudis with the skills needed to engage confidently in an AI-driven world.

Within Vision 2030, culture, tourism, digitalization and AI are treated as strategic sectors rather than peripheral concerns. As Saudi Arabia develops its creative economy as a form of soft power, its youth are becoming increasingly digitally fluent. AI tools are now embedded within creative workflows, enabling a new generation to explore heritage, remix traditional aesthetics and develop narratives that resonate on a global stage.

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Saudi defense minister meets with Pakistan’s army chief

February 12, 2026

RIYADH: Saudi Defense Minister Prince Khalid bin Salman met with Pakistan’s Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defense Forces Field Marshal Asim Munir in Riyadh on Thursday.

The two officials discussed joint efforts to “promote global peace and security in a manner that serves our shared interests,” Prince Khalid wrote on X.

Prince Khalid and Munir also reaffirmed the strength of Saudi-Pakistani relations and the strategic defense partnership between the two countries.

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Saudi Scouts Association unveils environmental protection program

February 13, 2026

RIYADH: The Saudi Arabian Scouts Association has launched a new environmental protection program at King Salman Wildlife Park in Banban, north of Riyadh, marking a renewed commitment to conservation and youth engagement in sustainability efforts.

The SASA initiative, unveiled in the presence of role players from various scouting sectors, brought together partners from government agencies and private-sector organizations, the Saudi Press Agency reported recently.

The program reflects growing collaboration between civic groups and national institutions to advance environmental protection goals across the Kingdom.

Abdulrahman Al-Mudaris, the SASA’s secretary-general, said the initiative underscores the scouts’ active role in supporting national strategies to preserve natural resources and promote sustainable development.

He said environmental scouting was a public service activity and educational approach designed to instill environmental awareness and encourage responsible behavior among young people.

The launch event featured the sowing of seeds and planting of seedlings throughout the park to support vegetation growth and enhance biodiversity, the SPA reported.

Founded in 1961, the SASA is a member of the World Organization of the Scout Movement and operates under the umbrella of the Ministry of Education.

Over the decades, Saudi scouts have played a visible role in community service, disaster response, and public event organization, including supporting pilgrim services during Hajj and Umrah seasons.

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Saudi FM arrives in Germany ahead of Munich Security Conference

February 12, 2026

RIYADH: Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan arrived in Munich on Thursday to head the Kingdom’s delegation participating in the Munich Security Conference, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The Kingdom's delegation to the conference includes Minister of State for Foreign Affairs and Special Envoy for Climate Affairs Adel bin Ahmed Al-Jubeir, Governor of the National Cybersecurity Authority Majed bin Mohammed Al-Mazyed, and CEO of the Center for Strategic Defense Studies and Research Major General Fahd bin Hamad Al-Otaibi.

Prince Faisal and other dignitaries are scheduled to discuss key regional and international issues, as well as challenges facing global security and stability at the conference.

The 62nd Munich Security Conference will take place from February 13 to 15.

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Deals worth $8bn signed at World Defense Show 2026

HAJAR ALQUSAYER

February 12, 2026

RIYADH: More than 60 military and defense deals worth SR33 billion ($8.8 billion) were signed at the third edition of the World Defense Show, which ended on Thursday in Riyadh.

The flagship defense exhibition is part of Saudi efforts to expand its military industries sector.

Organized by the General Authority for Military Industries, the five-day event brought together 1,486 exhibitors from 89 countries and attracted 137,000 visitors, according to official figures announced at the closing media briefing on Thursday.

Ahmad Al-Ohali, governor of the General Authority for Military Industries, said the event reflects broader efforts to localize defense spending under Vision 2030.

“When we started in 2018, the percentage of military spending from within the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia was 4 percent of total spending; by the end of 2024, it jumped to 25 percent,” he said.

Al-Ohali added that number of national cadres working in the sector increased from 25,000 male and female employees in 2020 to 34,000 — a rise of 40 percent.

Beyond attendance and displays, the exhibition served as a venue for commercial and government agreements.

The number of agreements signed reached 220, including 93 government-to-government agreements and 127 partnership agreements with companies.

Al-Ohali said the deals include technology transfer and local manufacturing projects aimed at strengthening domestic supply chains.

Aerial and static displays included 63 aircraft, alongside more than 700 pieces of military equipment exhibited across indoor and outdoor platforms. Maritime and unmanned systems were also showcased through dedicated demonstration areas.

Andrew Pearcey, CEO of the World Defense Show, said that planning for the next edition had already begun.

“So, what we do is we take stock of our successes, so we’re now starting to see what worked, and we also learned that some things that didn’t work,” Pearcey told Arab News.

“Over time, one of the key things is to try and grow; the demand for this show is huge, so we want to try and accommodate that.

“So, we need to try and build more space. Then we look at ways we brought new features to this show. So, we look at the industry and the trends, and see other new features that we can bring to the show.”

The event also introduced a “Future Talent Program” during its final two days, inviting students aged 16 to university level to explore career opportunities in the defense sector.

“The future talent program is where we invite youngsters, so from 16 up to university level, to come and look at the show, understand what career opportunities there are in the defense industry, sit and do some content programs, and meet the exhibitors that want to demonstrate some of their things,” Pearcey said.

“So, we bring around 4,000 to 5,000 students to the show. So, that’s bringing that next generation through.”

Source: arabnews.com

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https://www.arabnews.com/node/2632798/saudi-arabia

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Saudi Arabia targets 50 wildlife breeding programs within 5 years

HEBSHI ALSHAMMARI

February 12, 2026

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s top wildlife protection body has launched a plan to operate 50 breeding programs by 2030 and improve environmental balance, its CEO has said.

Mohammed Ali Qurban, head of the National Center for Wildlife, said the number of programs has already surged from seven to 21 in recent years, amid renewed interest in the protection of valued native species.

The breeding programs are based on precise scientific principles, starting with the selection of suitable species at research centers, followed by veterinary care and specialized nutrition programs, he added.

At the final stage, protected species are rehabilitated for release and monitored using the latest tracking and data analysis technologies.

The relocation of more than 10,000 animals in Saudi Arabia is “an important step in restoring ecosystems and enhancing environmental balance in the Kingdom,” Qurban said.

“Releasing wildlife into the wild contributes to forming new populations capable of self-reproduction; these releases support the genetic diversity of wild populations and enhance their ability to resist disease and adapt to environmental changes,” he added.

Releases have so far included more than 80 priority species, most notably reem antelopes, Arabian oryx, idmi gazelles, mountain ibex, houbara bustards, ostriches and sandgrouses. The animals were released within their historical and ecological ranges.

Qurban said that the plans take into account the carrying capacity of natural habitats and the importance of safe ecological corridors that connect protected areas to facilitate species movement and population sustainability.

Release sites are spread across more than 60 diverse environmental locations, including natural reserves, royal reserves and national parks, as well as strategic sites within the Kingdom’s giga-projects, ensuring the dispersal of animals across their targeted geographical ranges.

The efforts are part of a national integrated framework to support the goals of the Saudi Green Initiative, Vision 2030 and the National Environment Strategy, aiming to achieve thriving and sustainable wildlife and ecosystems, Qurban said.

Source: arabnews.com

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https://www.arabnews.com/node/2632805/saudi-arabia

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383 food baskets distributed in Afghanistan

February 12, 2026

LOGAR: Saudi aid agency KSrelief has distributed 383 food baskets to returnees from neighboring countries, internally displaced persons, poor families and orphans in Afghanistan, benefiting 2,298 individuals.

The assistance was provided as part of the fifth food basket project in the country for 2026, as part of the Food Security and Emergency Project in Afghanistan for 2026.

Elsewhere, the center continued the implementation of its food security project in Jordan by distributing dates to families in need, in cooperation with the Jordan Hashemite Charity Organization.

Field teams gave out 11,066 boxes of dates weighing a total of 88.5 tonnes across northern and central governorates including Amman, Irbid, Zarqa and Mafraq. The project benefited 55,330 individuals, representing 11,066 families.

Source: arabnews.com

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https://www.arabnews.com/node/2632803/saudi-arabia

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Europe

 

Muslim man has lucky escape after petrol bombing at Limerick mosque

12/02/2026

A Muslim man had a lucky escape in a mosque which was petrol bombed in Limerick on Thursday.

Gardaí are investigating the arson attack at the Limerick Mosque & Islamic Cultural Centre, which caused internal damage to the building and sparked fear throughout the local Islamic community.

Sources said gardaí were investigating reports that a male approached the mosque, located at Dooradoyle, Limerick, and threw a petrol bomb through a window.

The fire began inside the place of worship at around 1:15am. A member of the mosque, who was in the building at the time, was left shocked but physically unhurt.

They were alerted by a fire alarm sounding in the building and they contacted the emergency services.

Firefighters attached to Limerick City Fire and Rescue Service responded at the scene and ensured the blaze was put out.

The mosque was cordoned off by investigating gardaí who conducted a forensic examination of the scene.

Local businessman Aamer Khan, who is a regular attendee at the mosque, said it was the first attack of its kind on the mosque, which he said was established many years ago.

Mr Khan, who had travelled to the mosque for morning prayers, Thursday, said: “I went there for prayers and I was told somebody tried to burn the place last night.”

“The gardaí were there and it was deemed a crime scene and so we were not allowed go in,” he added.

The fire is understood to have started in a bathroom and washing area of the mosque and Islamic cultural centre.

“We are in a process of repairing the place. It’s the first time something like this has happened, we did have break-ins before, but that was not an attack like this,” said Mr Khan.

“It looks like somebody was trying to burn it down, an arson attack is not common. In my 26 years here (in Limerick), it is the first time I ever saw it.”

“I never thought that something like this would ever happen. But now incidents like this could happen, there are individuals who will do something like this.”

“What we will do is take precautions, and the gardaí will do their job, and I am pretty much sure the system will eventually find the guy and make him an example so that this thing doesn’t become a routine.”

“Communities are expanding, Ireland is not the same as it was years ago, it’s a totally different place and everybody has to live together, so I do trust that the gardaí will find (the perpetrator) one way or the other.”

Local Fianna Fáil councillor, Azad Talukder, the first Muslim local representative of Limerick City and County Council, said gardaí were searching for a male suspect who it’s believed ‘threw a petrol bomb in the mosque”.

“The whole community is shocked and frightened and unsure of what to do,” said Cllr Talukder.

“The main thing is no one was hurt, the whole place could have burnt down, if actions were not taken quickly,” he said.

A garda spokeswoman said: “Gardaí received a report of an incident of criminal damage by fire that occurred at a premises in the Dooradoyle area, Co Limerick this Thursday 12th February 2026 at approximately 1:30am.”

“No injuries have been reported at this time.”

“Investigations are ongoing.”

Anyone within formation can contact Roxboro Road Garda Station on 061-214340.

Source: breakingnews.ie

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https://www.breakingnews.ie/ireland/muslim-man-has-lucky-escape-after-petrol-bombing-at-limerick-mosque-1864479.html

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Former mosque worker jailed for sex abuse of boys

13 Feb 2026

The victims of a man who sexually abused young boys while working in a Birmingham mosque have spoken out about how he "betrayed their trust" and "took advantage of their bodies".

Said Daauud, 25, targeted five children, all aged between nine and 14, over several months and tried to win their trust by plying them with sweets and gadgets, police said.

The former agency IT support worker sent more than 4,000 messages to one of the boys demanding indecent images and encouraging them to tell him they loved him.

He was found guilty of rape, nine sexual assault counts and seven charges of causing or inciting a child to engage in sexual activity and sentenced to 16 years in jail.

He was also handed an extended licence period of five years.

The mosque cannot be named for legal reasons.

'Betrayed my trust'

A police investigation was launched in May 2022 and officers found the accused, of Rudgewick Croft, Aston, had stayed overnight at one of the boys' houses and touched them inappropriately, a West Midlands Police spokesperson said.

"Said has betrayed my trust. He was a friend, like a big brother. I now struggle to trust adults, because he was as a true friend", one boy told police.

"This whole situation has made me feel overwhelmed and I just want things to go back to normal."

Another said: "Although I knew it was really wrong, I still tried to see the positives in Said. However, as the months have passed, I have more of an understanding of how Said had manipulated me and taken advantage of me and my body.

"I feel so betrayed by him, I can't even begin to describe this."

Some of his inappropriate physical contact with the boys was captured on CCTV at the mosque.

'No remorse'

At Birmingham Crown Court on 6 February, Daauud was handed the jail term and ordered to remain on licence for a further five years after that period.

He had previously pleaded guilty to four counts of assault on a boy under 13 by touching and four counts of sexual assault on a male.

He was also ordered to abide by a sexual harm prevention order indefinitely and indefinite restraining orders against each of the children he attacked.

Det Sgt Thomas Finney said: "Daauud has showed no remorse throughout this and has taken the case to trial, which meant that these children had to go through the ordeal of giving evidence and being cross-examined.

"We have made sure they've been supported through the process.

"He's used his position within the community to build up a real level of trust with families, who were happy to let him stay the night and care for their children.

"He abused that trust in the most appalling way, with a series of appalling sexual attacks on really young members of the community."

Source: bbc.com

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https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cj0dj8mj156o

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SecGen of Muslim Council praises Kazakhstan's role in Azerbaijan-Armenia peace

12 February 2026

ASTANA, Kazakhstan, February 12. Secretary-General of the Muslim Council of Elders and Zayed Award for Human Fraternity, Mohamed Abdelsalam, highly appreciates Kazakhstan's efforts in the peaceful settlement between Azerbaijan and Armenia, Trend reports, citing the press service of the president of Kazakhstan.

Abdelsalam made this statement during a meeting with Kazakhstan’s President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev.

In the meeting, Tokayev highlighted the critical importance of establishing principles of tolerance and peaceful coexistence, alongside the promotion of humanitarian values rooted in Islam. He emphasized that this role is in harmony with Kazakhstan’s political direction.

The president also expressed great satisfaction with the opening of the first council representation in Central Asia, which is located in Kazakhstan.

Tokayev stated that the Zayed Award for Human Fraternity is considered one of the most prestigious international awards aimed at promoting the ideals of unity and responsibility. He also highlighted its contribution to the development of global dialogue and cooperation.

In turn, Abdelsalam confirmed his intention to continue active participation in the congresses of world and traditional religious leaders held in Astana.

On August 8, 2025, following the results of a trilateral meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump in Washington, President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev and Prime Minister of Armenia Nikol Pashinyan signed a joint declaration on ensuring peace between Baku and Yerevan and establishing transport links between the main part of Azerbaijan and its Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic. This project was named the Trump Route for International Peace and Prosperity.

During the meeting, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Azerbaijan Jeyhun Bayramov and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Armenia Ararat Mirzoyan initialed the draft "Agreement on the Establishment of Peace and Interstate Relations between the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Republic of Armenia" and signed a joint appeal by the ministers of foreign affairs of the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Republic of Armenia to the OSCE Chairman-in-Office (on the closure of the OSCE Minsk Process).

Source: trend.az

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https://www.trend.az/casia/kazakhstan/4152777.html

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In the wake of internal dispute and reorganisation, Dublin’s Clonskeagh mosque reopens

Fri Feb 13 2026

The introduction of rotating imams, a staff clear-out and an investigation into alleged Muslim Brotherhood links all preceded the reopening of the Islamic Cultural Centre of Ireland (ICCI) on Thursday following a bitter and protracted dispute.

Prayers at its mosque, the largest in Ireland, were due to take place throughout Friday.

It also means the mosque, which can accommodate up to 1,700 people, will be open for Ramadan beginning at sundown next Tuesday.

The United Arab Emirates (UAE)-based Al Maktoum Foundation built the Clonskeagh Centre in 1995 and has funded it since, at approximately €2.5 million annually.

Relevant departments at the centre are to be reopened on a gradual basis with a future emphasis on volunteers as opposed to permanent staff. Staff costs at Clonskeagh were about €1.6 million annually, which, it has been found, could be at least halved with a shift toward increased volunteerism.

The clear out also means there are currently no plans to install a permanent imam at the centre to replace Sheikh Hussein Halawa (70), who reached an out-of-court settlement with the foundation last year following legal proceedings he initiated. It is now intended that a system of rotating imams will be employed at the centre.

Halawa had been imam at the centre for almost 30 years, since it opened in 1996.

The national school at the ICCI has been open throughout. However, the centre’s Koranic school has remained closed and is not to reopen in the foreseeable future.

Gardaí have been investigating alleged financial irregularities at the centre which, it is believed, may have been continuing over decades and could involve millions of euro being sent abroad as charitable donations. Amounts as high as €1 million are believed to have been sent abroad each year, in 2023 and 2024. Gardaí have been liaising with foreign authorities.

A serious dispute between the Al Maktoum Foundation and prominent officials at Clonskeagh over governance and due diligence issues came to a head in 2024.

Over recent years concerns had been raised with the foundation about management and oversight at the ICCI.

These also involved the handling of what were claimed to be charitable donations, including funds raised for Gaza and other causes abroad, as well as cash payments at the centre itself. Claims were also made about alleged links between officials at Clonskeagh and the Muslim Brotherhood.

An international Sunni Muslim organisation set up in 1928, the Muslim Brotherhood was founded in Egypt with the aim of establishing the Koran as sole reference point for ordering life in the family, community and state.

It has been designated a terrorist organisation in Bahrain, Egypt, Russia, Syria, Saudi Arabia and, most significantly where the Clonskeagh Centre is concerned, the UAE, home to the Al Maktoum Foundation.

However, it is not designated a terrorist organisation in Ireland or any other EU country.

On receipt of these claims and expressions of concern about the running of Clonskeagh, senior figures from the Al Maktoum Foundation visited the ICCI a number of times in 2024.

This included the chairman of the Al Maktoum Foundation, Muhammad Dahi, and a director of the board of management, Dr Zahid Jamil, who has played a central role in the current reorganisation at the ICCI. They appointed an auditor to investigate matters at the centre.

This investigation met resistance, particularly at the Koranic school. Totally separate from the national school and founded in 1999, the Nur-ul-Huda School taught the tenets of Islam to its approximately 2,000 Muslim pupils, at an annual fee of €250 each. It had a principal, a deputy principal and about 40 teachers.

Much of the controversy at the ICCI concerned the Koranic school and how it was run.

When information was sought from the school it responded that, because of data protection legislation, this could not be supplied. The ICCI pointed out that such legislation did not apply as it was not a third party. The Koranic school still refused to provide the required details and some of its senior staff resigned.

Jamil called a meeting of parents of pupils attending the Koranic school for April 19th last year. Large numbers turned up. It was contentious and went on for over two hours. A second meeting was agreed and, as it continued, there were concerns for Jamil’s physical safety. Gardaí were called to protect him and escorted him to safety.

Then, information was received at the centre that a demonstration was being planned. Out of concern for people’s safety and security , Jamil decided to shut it down until investigations were completed, with just the national school remaining open. As it prepared its reopening, the internal investigation at the centre remains ongoing.

Lengthy court proceeding followed last year involving a director of the ICCI board who alleged corporate criminality against fellow board members. This was dismissed by the High Court last December as baseless and entirely misconceived. Costs were awarded against the complainant.

Legal proceedings were also taken by imam Halawa but these too failed and an out-of-court settlement was agreed with him.

Halawa came to Ireland from his native Egypt in 1995 having studied theology at Al-Azhar University in Cairo and securing his doctorate in Islamic studies at the International Islamic University in Islamabad, Pakistan.

In 2017 his son, Ibrahim, was released after being jailed without trial in Egypt for more than four years. Ibrahim was detained in Cairo, along with three of his sisters, during a Muslim Brotherhood “day of rage” in 2013 over the removal of former Egyptian president Mohamed Morsi, who was affiliated to the Muslim Brotherhood.

The Halawa sisters were released after 15 days.

It was suggested by US officials in WikiLeaks correspondence from 2006, released in 2011, that Imam Halawa was a member of the Muslim Brotherhood, but he denied this. In 2016 Soha Gendi, then Egyptian ambassador to Ireland, claimed that “the whole [Halawa] family is part of the Muslim Brotherhood, whether they deny it or not”.

Sheikh Halawa has also been general secretary of the European Council for Fatwa and Research in which role he provided theological guidance (fatwa) on issues facing Muslims in Europe.

It was claimed that the council’s founder and former president, Egyptian-born, but Qatari-based, Yusuf al-Qaradawi was also a member of the Muslim Brotherhood, which he too denied. A controversial theologian and scholar, al-Qaradawi was banned from the US in 1999, the UK and Ireland in 2008, and France in 2012. He died in 2022 aged 96.

Dr Ali Selim, long-recognised as the public face of the ICCI for which he was spokesman for over 20 years until September 2024 when he stood down, has “warmly welcomed” its reopening. He congratulated “all those whose dedication and hard work have made this possible.”

He did not feel free to discuss his reasons for standing down from his role at the centre in 2024, due to a non-disclosure agreement. Subsequently, following the closure of the ICCI in April 2025, he was appointed manager for media affairs there by the Al Maktoum Foundation.

He hoped that the reorganised ICCI would be “a place that nurtures unity among Muslims, encourages mutual respect and co-operation, and supports the spiritual and educational growth of all generations.”

He also said he hoped the centre would “actively foster positive engagement with the wider society in Ireland, building bridges of understanding, contributing to the common good, and reflecting the nobles values of our faith through service, dialogue and exemplary character.”

Source: irishtimes.com

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https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/social-affairs/2026/02/13/in-the-wake-of-internal-dispute-and-reorganisation-dublins-clonskeagh-mosque-reopens/

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 Man linked to plot to bomb Galway mosque claims he can't get fair trial

12 FEB, 2026

A man who is alleged to have been part of a right-wing group that targeted a mosque in Galway and who is charged with possession of explosives says he cannot get a fair trial due to the wording of the Explosives Act.

Karolis Peckauskas, 38, of Newfoundwell Road, Drogheda, Co Louth, has been granted leave from the High Court to challenge whether he can get a fair trial under the act, which he claims contravenes his fundamental human rights.

Mr Peckauskas was arrested on November 4 last at O'Moore Place, Portlaoise, Co Laois, and then charged with possession of six litres of hydrogen peroxide and “knowingly having in his possession an explosive substance".

Mr Peckauskas has not entered a plea in relation to the charge and intends to apply for bail for a third time.

In November, Mr Peckauskas, who is a co-accused with another man, was refused bail at Portlaoise District Court and then again at the High Court in Cloverhill in December.

Co-accused Garrett Pollock, 35, with an address at Kilhorne Greene, Annalong, Co Down, was also refused bail.

At the bail hearing, Detective Garda Declan O'Connor alleged that a video recording had been made by four masked men indicating their intention to take violent action against specific targets.

A document described as a "manifesto" for a right wing group also formed part of the evidence, the court heard.

Mr Pollock faces a charge of possession of explosives at O'Moore Place, Portlaoise, and of possessing explosives at an address at Kilhorne Green, Co Down.

When refusing bail for both men, Judge Andrew Cody outlined the contents of the video which included four men wearing balaclavas with a tricolour behind them.

He said the video was a "practice of a statement being released subsequent to a successful terrorist attack".

Identifying themselves as the Irish Defence Army (IDA) in the video, the group states that they accept responsibility for actions that “resulted in the destruction” of the first mosque in Ireland, located in Galway, said Judge Cody.

Papers lodged by Mr Peskaukas' legal team claim that the wording of Section 4 of the Explosives Act places an "impermissible burden" on the applicant.

It is submitted that the Act reads: "Any person who makes or knowingly has in his possession or under his control any explosive substance under such circumstances as to give rise to a reasonable suspicion that he is not making it or does not have it in his possession for a lawful object shall, unless he can show that he made it or had it in his possession or under his control for a lawful object, be guilty of an offence."

The Act's wording, lawyers for Mr Peckauskas submit, places an "impermissible burden" on the applicant because it places an obligation on him to prove he is not morally culpable, contrary to Article 38.1 of the Constitution and the right to a fair trial under the European Convention on Human rights.

Leave for judicial review was granted to Niall Storan BL, led by Bernard Condon SC, instructed by Barry Fitzgerald Solicitors, for Mr Peckauskas, before Mr Justice Micheál O'Higgins on January 26, in an ex parte motion - where only one side is represented in the court.

The matter which was before the court this week to allow time for opposition papers to be lodged appears before the High Court next month for mention.

Source: irishexaminer.com

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https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/courtandcrime/arid-41792864.html

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Anti-Muslim graffiti removed from fence near Horwich school

12TH FEBRUARY

By Zach Harrison

Anti-Muslim graffiti has been removed from a fence near a primary school.

The graffiti had been daubed down a ginnel which runs between Chorley New Road and Mansell Way in Horwich.

The public path runs down the side of Chorley New Road Primary Academy.

The writing read "Kill Muslim", with what appeared to be a Christian cross drawn next to it. The writing appeared to have been crossed out.

It was reported to the police and Bolton Council.

Now, a spokesperson for the council confirmed that the graffiti has been removed.

They added: "The council will always act quickly to remove offensive graffiti if it is on council owned property."

A local resident who reported the graffiti to the police on January 24 voiced her horror at the offensive daubing, which she called a "hate crime".

She said: "I’d feel the same whether it be another religion, it’s horrific as a human, never mind a Muslim woman."

Police said they are investigating the offence, having contacted Bolton Council for it to be removed.

Source: theboltonnews.co.uk

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https://www.theboltonnews.co.uk/news/25848077.anti-muslim-graffiti-removed-fence-near-horwich-school/

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Top Azerbaijani cleric hosts delegation of major US Jewish groups

13 February 2026

On February 12, the Chairman of the Caucasus Muslims Board, Sheikh-ul-Islam Allahshukur Pashazade, met with a delegation led by Betsy Berns Korn, Chair of the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organisations, the press service of the Caucasus Muslims Board told local media.

It was noted that during the meeting, Korn expressed satisfaction at visiting the country at the head of a representative delegation.

Betsy Berns Korn stated that she was well aware of Azerbaijan’s extensive experience in interfaith cooperation, the atmosphere of tolerance prevailing in the country, and its multicultural values. She emphasised that she highly valued the opportunity to personally familiarise herself with Azerbaijan’s religious environment.

The guests noted that among the many meetings they were holding in the country, their discussion with the religious leader of Azerbaijan and the entire Caucasus held special significance. They asked the Sheikh-ul-Islam to elaborate on Azerbaijan’s model of tolerance and to share his views on how such a model could be implemented in other countries around the world.

Sheikh-ul-Islam A. Pashazade provided a detailed overview of the historical and contemporary aspects of Azerbaijan’s model of interreligious dialogue and cooperation. It was emphasised that tolerance — including ethnic and religious tolerance — as well as amicable interfaith relations, are a living reality in the country and an integral part of the daily life of the Azerbaijani people.

The head of the Caucasus Muslims Board stressed that the country’s religious communities always stand together in times of joy and sorrow and during the most critical moments for the homeland.

Recalling the 44-day Patriotic War, Sheikh-ul-Islam A. Pashazade noted that citizens of Azerbaijan, representing all religious denominations, united around the state, fought shoulder to shoulder for their native land, and became martyrs. He proudly stated that the memory of heroes — representatives of different religions and ethnic communities — lives in the heart of every Azerbaijani.

Source: caliber.az

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https://caliber.az/en/post/top-azerbaijani-cleric-hosts-delegation-of-major-us-jewish-groups

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North America

 

Ilhan Omar under fire for ‘execute Trump’ tweet

12 Feb, 2026

The US Republican Party has accused Democratic Representative Ilhan Omar of “calling for the execution” of President Donald Trump, after she called him a “pedophile” and suggested that he would be put to death if he were in her native Somalia.

“Last night, Ilhan Omar tweeted, calling for the execution of the President of the United States,” the Pennsylvania branch of the GOP stated on Wednesday. Pointing out that “calling for the execution of a federal official is a felony under United States law,” the party urged Democrats to “take responsibility” for the apparent threat to Trump’s life.

One day earlier, Omar shared a clip of Trump condemning Somali-led fraud rings in Minnesota. Omar, who was born in Somalia and represents Minnesota in Congress, accused the president of trying to deflect attention from his name appearing in the recently-released Epstein files.

“The leader of the Pedophile Protection Party is trying to deflect attention from his name being all over the Epstein files,” Omar tweeted. “At least in Somalia they execute pedophiles not elect them.”

The Republican Party’s ‘RNC Research’ account also accused Omar of “casually” encouraging Trump’s execution, and noted that Somalia “has one of the highest child marriage rates in the world.” RNC Research’s post did not push back against her labeling Trump a “pedophile.”

Omar has not faced any criticism from her own party for the tweet.

The US Justice Department released more than three million files related to deceased pedophile Jeffrey Epstein last month. Among thousands of emails and text messages between Epstein and his associates, Trump’s name is mentioned thousands of times. However, no smoking-gun evidence has emerged linking him to any child sex crimes.

The files suggest that Trump had more contact with Epstein than he previously admitted, and that he knew the financier was involved with teenage girls. However, several documents revealed that he told Florida police that he was glad they were “stopping” Epstein, because “everyone has known he’s been doing this.”

The document dump also contains anonymous complaints submitted to the FBI in 2020, accusing Trump of child sex abuse and complicity in murder. The Justice Department has dismissed these claims as “sensationalist” attempts to smear Trump ahead of the 2020 election.

Source: rt.com

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https://www.rt.com/news/632383-ilhan-omar-execute-trump/

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US lawmakers accuse DOJ of ‘spying’ on Epstein file searches

13 Feb, 2026

Lawmakers from both parties on Capitol Hill have demanded answers from the US Department of Justice over its monitoring of congressional investigators’ search activity while they reviewed sensitive, unredacted documents connected to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

The controversy erupted after Attorney General Pam Bondi appeared at a House Judiciary Committee hearing Wednesday with printed material listing specific files and queries that Democratic Representative Pramila Jayapal had accessed.

The top Democrat on the Judiciary Committee, Representative Jamie Raskin, characterized the practice as a serious breach of trust and a potential violation of the constitutional separation of powers. He called for an investigation, saying the department was not only withholding records but also “spying on members of Congress conducting oversight in yet another blatant attempt to intrude into Congress’s oversight processes.”

“Bondi has enough time to spy on Members of Congress, but can’t find it in herself to apologize to the survivors of Epstein’s horrific abuse,” Jayapal posted on social media, calling the tracking “totally unacceptable” and promising that lawmakers would demand a full accounting of how the search history is being used.

To review unredacted portions of the files – made available in a secure Justice Department setting under the Epstein Files Transparency Act – lawmakers were required to use department-owned computers.

Some Republicans, including Representative Nancy Mace, said they believed the department was tagging and timestamping their activity. House Oversight Committee Chair James Comer told Axios he was “going to ask and see if they did that.” Speaker Mike Johnson called any effort to monitor lawmakers “inappropriate.”

The Justice Department responded to questions about the allegations by saying it logs searches made on its systems to protect sensitive information, particularly the identities of victims, but did not directly address lawmakers’ concerns.

The dispute comes amid broader congressional frustration with the Justice Department’s handling of the Epstein files, which include millions of pages of documents, videos, and images related to long-running investigations into Epstein’s crimes and connections. Critics, including lawmakers from both parties, say the department has been slow to release information and overly aggressive in redacting material that could reveal the names of individuals linked to Epstein.

Source: rt.com

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https://www.rt.com/news/632391-doj-spying-epstein-congress/

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CAIR Releases 2025 Annual Report Highlighting Victories Won Amid Major Challenges

February 12, 2026

The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today announced the release of its 2025 Annual Report. This report highlights the progress CAIR achieved during a year that tested the rule of law across America.

CAIR also thanked the American public for the increased support it provided to the organization in 2025, breaking CAIR’s annual fundraising growth record for the fifth year in a row and allowing the organization to expand its legal, policy and media work.

 

From winning a historic $100,000 settlement for anti-genocide college students targeted by their university to overturning a discriminatory federal decision that barred orphaned Muslim children from uniting with their foster parents in America to defeating dangerous pieces of legislation like the Nonprofit Killer Bill to successfully hosting its first National Policy Conference in the heart of Washington, DC, the report documents victories big and small.

A message from CAIR’s Board to the organization’s supporters nationwide stated in part:

“As we close out 2025, we find ourselves reflecting on a year that tested our resolve like never before. The attacks on our community intensified. Anti-Muslim rhetoric reached new heights. Attempts to silence Palestinian voices and criminalize anti-genocide advocacy escalated across the country. But here’s what our opponents didn’t count on: you. Your unwavering support, your courage to speak out, and your commitment to justice made 2025 a year of unprecedented victories.”

Source: cair.com

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

https://www.cair.com/press_releases/cair-releases-2025-annual-report-highlighting-victories-won-amid-major-challenges/

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CAIR Maryland, IMAN Network Announce Legislative Priorities for 2026 Maryland Muslim Lobby Day

February 12, 2026

The Maryland office of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) and the Islamic Maryland Action Network (IMAN Network) today announced their legislative priorities for the 2026 Maryland Muslim Lobby Day taking place on Monday, February 16. The priorities reflect a comprehensive policy agenda focused on civil rights, public education, youth justice, voting access, immigrant protections, and ethical stewardship of public resources.

Register for 2026 Maryland Muslim Lobby Day

The coalition is advocating for legislation across several key areas, including:

Public Education & Cultural Inclusion

Supporting curriculum standards that include Palestinian culture and history education.

Strengthening anti-bullying protections and inclusive educational standards for diverse student populations.

Civil Rights & Privacy Protections

Prohibiting the unauthorized distribution of students’ personal information.

Addressing voter intimidation and strengthening protections against voter suppression.

Youth Justice & Juvenile Protection

Reforming policies that automatically charge youth in adult court and promoting developmentally appropriate justice practices.

Protecting children in detention from exposure to incarcerated adults and improving juvenile confinement safeguards.

Immigrant & Community Safety Protections

Limiting local participation in federal immigration enforcement agreements that undermine community trust and public safety.

Human Rights & Ethical Investment

Supporting resolutions condemning violence and violations of international law.

Advancing efforts to ensure public pension investments align with human rights standards.

Supporting measures that prevent state resources from supporting human rights violations abroad.

“Maryland Muslim Lobby Day reflects the strength and civic engagement of our community,” said IMAN Steering Committee Member and Islamic Society of Baltimore President Hasan Hammad. “These issues center dignity, safety, and fairness for all Marylanders. From protecting civil rights to strengthening youth justice reform, our coalition is working to ensure policies reflect the values of equity and accountability.”

“These bills convey a broad commitment to expanding access to opportunity and ensuring Maryland policies are rooted in integrity and justice,” said IMAN Steering Committee Member and CAIR Maryland Director Zainab Chaudry.

“Our priorities respond directly to the rising threats of hate, discrimination, and political intimidation impacting many communities,” said IMAN Steering Committee Member and CAIR Maryland Advisory Board Member Dr. Samya Mohammad. “Measures like student protections and voter intimidation safeguards help ensure Maryland residents can participate in civic life safely and freely without fear of harassment or retaliation.”

“Maryland’s youth justice system must reflect modern research and common-sense public safety practices,” said IMAN Steering Committee Member and Prince George’s County Muslim Council President Jameel Johnson. “The Youth Charging Reform Act and protections for incarcerated youth recognize that young people deserve developmentally appropriate accountability, rehabilitation opportunities, and systems that prioritize long-term safety for our communities.”

“Education policies that promote cultural literacy and respectful learning environments strengthen Maryland schools for all students,” said IMAN Steering Committee Member and Islamic Center of Maryland Board Chairman Nadeem Ahmad. “Supporting standards that expand understanding of history, culture, and global perspectives helps combat ignorance, reduce bullying, and prepare students to thrive in a diverse society.”

“Our coalition supports policies that reflect Marylanders’ commitment to human rights, ethical governance, and responsible public investment,” said IMAN Steering Committee Member and Justice for All DC Outreach Director Hena Zuberi. “Whether addressing international humanitarian concerns or ensuring taxpayer funds align with community values, these priorities promote accountability and moral leadership.”

The annual Maryland Muslim Lobby Day brings together hundreds of community members from across the state to engage directly with lawmakers, advocate for equitable policies, and uplift issues impacting Muslims and other marginalized communities. Organizers encourage community members to participate and make their voices heard in the legislative process.

The Islamic Maryland Action Network (IMAN) is a statewide crisis response working group that represents over 350,000 Muslims in the state.

SEE: IMAN Network

The IMAN Network’s mission is to foster a coordinated, compassionate, and effective response to crises, uniting diverse Muslim communities across the state.

CAIR’s mission is to protect civil rights, enhance understanding of Islam, promote justice, and empower American Muslims.      

La misión de CAIR es proteger las libertades civiles, mejorar la comprensión del Islam, promover la justicia, y empoderar a los musulmanes en los Estados Unidos.     

Source: cair.com

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

https://www.cair.com/press_releases/cair-maryland-iman-network-announce-legislative-priorities-for-2026-maryland-muslim-lobby-day/

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NJ Muslim Rights Group Is Collecting Ramadan Donations For Delaney Hall Detainees

Feb 12, 2026

ESSEX COUNTY, NJ — Just because you’re in ICE custody doesn’t mean your freedom of religion should be tossed out the window, one of the largest Muslim civil rights groups in the nation says.

The New Jersey Chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-NJ) recently launched a Ramadan outreach campaign for detainees imprisoned at Delaney Hall in Newark.

Ramadan is expected to begin on the evening of Feb. 17 this year.

CAIR-NJ is holding a fundraising drive to purchase religious items for Muslim detainees, including Qur’ans, prayer mats and detention-compliant hijabs. Learn more or make a donation here.

“Detention often strips people of comfort, routine, and connection,” advocates say. “For Muslim detainees, the ability to pray properly, read Qur’an, and observe their faith provides solace, structure, and hope. These items offer more than religious observance; they are a source of peace, identity and strength in the face of uncertainty.”

The group held a similar donation drive last year for inmates at another nearby prison: the Essex County Correctional Facility in Newark.

CAIR-NJ said that a Muslim detainee recently released from Delaney Hall reported having difficulty getting ahold of these religious materials, as well as access to an imam.

“As we approach the holy month of Ramadan — a sacred period of fasting, prayer, and spiritual reflection for Muslims — Delaney Hall and other ICE detention facilities across our nation have a legal and moral obligation to ensure that detained Muslims can practice their faith with dignity,” executive director Selaedin Maksut said.

“This includes granting them access to prayer space, Qur’ans, religious literature, prayer mats, chaplaincy services and appropriate meals before dawn and after sunset,” Maksut added.

Spokespeople for Delaney Hall – which is run by the GEO Group, one of the largest private prison companies in the world – have repeatedly said that detainees in their custody have “around-the-clock access” to practice their religious beliefs.

Detainees’ religious and specialty diets are also accommodated, the company says.

All of the GEO Group’s ICE processing centers are independently accredited by the American Correctional Association and the National Commission on Correctional Health Care, spokespeople say.

Source: patch.com

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

https://patch.com/new-jersey/newarknj/nj-muslim-rights-group-collecting-ramadan-donations-delaney-hall-detainees

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Analysis: Trump takes victory lap after biggest climate rollback yet

Feb 13, 2026

Daniel Bush

US President Donald Trump framed his sweeping rollback of federal climate change policy on Thursday as a political win over the Democratic Party's "radical" environmental agenda, reprising a message Republicans have used in past elections and could turn to once again ahead of November's crucial midterms.

His announcement at the White House was one of the most significant moves of his second term in office. The president said he was revoking an Obama-era "endangerment finding" from 2009 which held that pollution harms public health and the environment.

For almost 17 years, the US has used that scientific finding as the legal basis to establish policies to reduce emissions from cars, power plants and other sources of planet-warming gases.

"This radical rule became the legal foundation for the Green New Scam," Trump said, using a term popular with Republicans for describing Democratic environmental and climate policies.

The move marks the culmination of a decade-long push by Trump to tear up policies that Democrats and many climate experts say are needed to rein in emissions. And it is one of the most far-reaching reversals of American climate policy yet.

Trump, who has called climate change a "hoax" and a "con job", dismissed the science underpinning the Obama-era rule in remarks that at times took on the air of a victory lap over his Democratic opponents.

It was yet another sign that, for the president, this issue is as much a political one as it is scientific.

He focused on the economic impacts of reversing the endangerment finding, arguing that boosting fossil fuels instead of clean energy would lead to lower energy costs for American consumers.

Trump also singled out the US auto industry as a major beneficiary of the change.

He said ending the endangerment finding would do away with an electric vehicle "mandate" put in place by his predecessor, former President Joe Biden. Under Biden, Congress passed a law to expand the nation's electric vehicle charging network and created tax incentives to lower the cost of EVs, but it did not include any provisions forcing buyers to purchase them.

Lee Zeldin, the administrator of the US Environmental Protection Agency, made the announcement alongside the president and described the 2009 scientific ruling as the "holy grail of climate change religion".

Both men framed its revocation as an assault on overbearing federal regulations - part of a longtime message from Republicans that bureaucratic red tape is hindering economic growth.

Zeldin said past climate policies had "strangled entire sectors of the United States economy".

This decision is "the single largest act of deregulation in the history of the United States of America," he said.

The rollback sparked fury, meanwhile, among Democrats and environmental groups who said it would wreck the US's ability to combat climate change. "We'll be less safe, less healthy and less able to fight climate change - all so the fossil fuel industry can make even more money," former President Barack Obama wrote on social media.

Trump reversed numerous Obama-era energy and environmental regulations in his first term in office. He also withdrew the US from the Paris climate accord, an agreement by countries around the world to lower emissions and address rising sea levels, natural disasters and other problems exacerbated by global warming.

Trump repeated the action at the start of his second term, reversing Biden's decision to reinstate the US in the international climate pact.

In recent years, climate policy in the US has swung wildly depending on who is occupying the White House. But the announcement on Thursday represented the largest move yet by Trump to dismantle the climate policies put in place by his Democratic predecessors.

It also revived a campaign trail fight from the past few national elections, which pitted Trump against Democrats in Congress who backed wide-ranging climate and environmental policies known as the "Green New Deal".

Whether the strategy of climate rollbacks can help Republicans pick up votes in the November midterm elections, which will decide control of Congress for the rest of Trump's term, remains to be seen.

The issue rarely appeared as a top priority for voters in exit polls in the 2024 presidential election - with the economy and cost of living frequently ranking top.

Perhaps with this in mind, Trump took pains to argue Thursday's move would save consumers thousands on a new car. Many environmentalists, however, are sceptical of this claim.

Trump and many Republicans have also argued that Democrats' climate policies are extreme and out-of-touch with public sentiment.

But opinion polls indicate a growing percentage of Americans are worried about global warming - a potential warning sign for Republicans who embrace Trump's climate record in November.

In the US, 63% of Americans say they are worried about global warming, compared to 37% who say they are not worried, according to a 2024 study by the Yale Program on Climate Change Communication.

A 2025 Gallup poll indicated that a record 48% of American adults think global warming will pose a serious threat in their lifetime, up from 25% in 1997.

At the White House on Thursday, Trump dismissed a question about whether he was concerned his decision would be unpopular with the public. He argued that the country would be better off without the climate change regulations of the past.

That era is "dead, gone, over", he said.

Source: bbc.com

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

https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cvg8xjm8932o

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Costs from Trump's tariffs paid mainly by US firms and consumers, NY Fed says

Feb 13, 2026

Kali Hays

As President Donald Trump changed tariff agreements with a number of countries, there was one constant: goods became more expensive for US companies and consumers.

In research released Thursday by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, a group of analysts and economists found that in 2025, the average tariff rate on imported goods rose to 13% from just 2.6% at the start of the year.

The New York Fed found that 90% of the cost of increased tariffs, which Trump imposed on goods from Mexico, China, Canada and the European Union, was paid for by US companies.

"US firms and consumers continue to bear the bulk of the economic burden of the high tariffs imposed in 2025."

As tariff rates changed and increased last year, exporting countries did not lower the cost of goods in an attempt to ward off any drop in US demand.

Instead, exporters kept their prices the same, passing off the cost of tariffs to any company importing their goods, which in turn responded by increasing the price of those goods to shoppers.

The reaction from exporters in 2025 was essentially the same in 2018, when Trump imposed certain tariffs during his first term in office – the cost of goods for consumers rose, with little other economic impact recorded, the New York Fed said at the time.

 

Its Thursday findings match research from other recent analyses.

The Kiel Institute for the World Economy, an independent research firm in Germany, said in a report last month that it had found "near-complete pass-through of tariffs to US import prices."

Kiel researchers analysed 25 million transactions and found that in exporting countries like Brazil and India, the price of goods from those countries did not decline.

"Trade volumes collapsed instead," the Kiel report said, meaning exporters preferred to cut the amount of goods being shipped into the US rather than lower prices.

The National Bureau of Economic Research also found that the pass-through of tariffs was "almost 100%", meaning the US is paying for the increase in prices, not exporting countries.

Similarly, the Tax Foundation, a Washington DC-based think tank focused on US tax policy, found that increased tariffs on goods in 2025 increased costs for every American household.

Defining tariffs as a new tax on consumers, the Tax Foundation said the 2025 increases cost the average household $1,000 (£734.30). In 2026, tariffs will cost the same household $1,300.

The Tax Foundation said even the "effective" tariff rate, an average rate that takes into account people buying fewer goods in response to increased prices, is now 9.9%, making it the "the highest average rate since 1946".

With such impacts on people, the Tax Foundation said any economic benefits of tax cuts included in Trump's "Big Beautiful Bill" will be offset entirely.

Source: bbc.com

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https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c78x9256pn7o

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Africa

 

Terrorism, Sharia claims aimed at blocking Kwankwaso’s presidential, VP ambition – Galadima

February 12, 2026

A chieftain of the New Nigeria Peoples Party, NNPP, Buba Galadima, has described allegations linking former Kano State Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso to terrorism as politically motivated.

Galadima claimed the allegations are aimed at neutralizing his potential presidential or vice-presidential ambition in 2027.

DAILY POST reports that Kwankwaso has reportedly been targeted for sanctions under legislation introduced by the US Congress over his alleged role in promulgating Sharia law in Kano State.

Speaking on ARISE News on Thursday, Galadima defended Kwankwaso’s political record, noting that during his tenure as governor from 2000 to 2003, he supported President Olusegun Obasanjo despite the political cost to his re-election.

“The insinuation that Kwankwaso was a financier of terrorism is baseless. It is an attempt to smear a peaceful Nigerian ahead of the 2027 elections,” Galadima said.

He further accused several media outlets and certain politicians of being complicit in circulating unverified reports to damage Kwankwaso’s image.

Galadima further clarified that Kwankwaso did not implement Sharia law according to its strict dictates, a factor that eventually paved the way for Ibrahim Shekarau to become governor.

He also highlighted Kwankwaso’s record of protecting minority groups in Kano State.

Source: dailypost.ng

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

https://dailypost.ng/2026/02/12/terrorism-sharia-claims-aimed-at-blocking-kwankwasos-presidential-vp-ambition-galadima/

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2027: ACF Knock Politicians As Terrorism, Banditry Worsen In The North

February 12, 2026

The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) has raised fresh concerns over escalating insecurity across Northern Nigeria, warning that terrorism, banditry, insurgency and kidnapping are tightening their grip on communities and pushing the region toward a deeper humanitarian crisis.

The forum said the persistent violence has triggered mass displacement, forced school closures and crippled rural livelihoods, stressing that urgent action is needed to prevent the situation from worsening.

Speaking at the 79th National Executive Committee meeting of the forum in Kaduna on Wednesday, ACF Chairman, Mamman Mike Osuman, said the security situation had deteriorated sharply since the group’s last meeting in August 2025.

He noted that new attacks had been recorded in Kwara, Southern Kaduna, Katsina, Benue and other states, leaving a trail of destruction.

“The consequences have been devastating,” Osuman said. “Families and communities have been violently uprooted and displaced.”

He added that repeated attacks had forced residents into overcrowded camps and informal settlements with limited access to food, healthcare and other essential services, thereby increasing the risk of malnutrition and death.

The ACF chairman further lamented that schools had been shut in several affected communities, while farming, travel and access to healthcare had been severely disrupted by fear and insecurity.

According to him, rural economies are collapsing as residents abandon their homes and means of livelihood.

“Insecurity has deepened to such an extent that external military assistance has been required,” he said, describing the situation as a grave and expanding crisis.

Knock On Politicians Over 2027 Politics

Osuman criticised political actors whom he accused of prioritising strategies for the 2027 general elections over pressing issues such as hunger, poverty, out-of-school children and recurring attacks.

“This election season has produced convoluted groups whose focus is not on out-of-school children, hunger, poverty, frequent attacks by kidnappers, banditry or terrorism, but rather on repositioning ahead of 2027,” he said.

He urged elected and appointed officials to reconnect with realities on the ground and align more closely with efforts to restore peace, stability and rehabilitation in affected communities.

The forum also tasked its state chapters to move beyond rhetoric and adopt more proactive measures in engaging governments at all levels to push for urgent security reforms and civil rehabilitation programmes.

“Our existence must not be merely ceremonial or rhetorical,” Osuman said. “It must be principled, sincere, sacrificial and action-driven.”

Beyond security concerns, the forum proposed the establishment of a nine-member Code of Conduct and Ethics Committee, to be chaired by constitutional law expert and legal consultant to the National Assembly, Prof. Nuhu Jamo, as part of efforts to strengthen its internal governance.

As the country approaches another election cycle, Osuman stressed the importance of peaceful and credible elections, urging citizens to uphold civic responsibility while demanding accountability and practical solutions from leaders.

Source: naijanews.com

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https://www.naijanews.com/2026/02/12/2027-acf-knock-politicians-as-terrorism-banditry-worsen-in-the-north/

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We will follow Sultan’s directives on Ramadan commencement, says MUSWEN president

by Tajudeen Adebanjo

February 12, 2026

The Muslim Ummah of South West Nigeria (MUSWEN) has expressed concern over reports of purported announcements by some individuals and groups regarding the commencement date of Ramadan.

The announcement was made ahead of and in disregard for the established and recognised process of moon sighting under the leadership of the Sultan of Sokoto and President-General, Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar.

MUSWEN, in a statement by its President, Alhaji Rasaki Oladejo, disassociated the Muslims of the South West from such “premature and unauthorised declarations.”

The body reiterated that the Sultan of Sokoto/President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) and Amir-al-Mu’minin of Nigerian Muslims remains the sole and legitimate authority vested with the responsibility of announcing the official commencement of Ramadan in Nigeria, following the verified sighting of the new moon on the last day of Sha’aban.

Alhaji Oladejo, who is the NSCIA Deputy President-General (South), said: “For decades, this time-honoured process has ensured unity, order, and adherence to Islamic principles across the country. Any announcement made outside this framework not only undermines constituted Islamic authority but also risks creating unnecessary confusion and disunity within the Ummah.

“In this regard, MUSWEN respectfully appeals to the scholars and groups involved to refrain from actions or pronouncements capable of further polarising the Muslim community. The organisation urges them to join hands with the Amir-ul-Mu’minin in the collective effort to promote unity, harmony, and cohesion among Muslims across Nigeria.

“We call on all Muslims in the South West and beyond to disregard such announcements and to continue to look towards the official declaration by the Sultan of Sokoto for guidance on the commencement of the Ramadan fast.

“We reaffirm our unflinching confidence in the leadership, wisdom, and commitment of the Amir-al-Mu’minin to the unity and well-being of the Nigerian Muslim community, and urge all adherents to remain calm, law-abiding, and united in anticipation of the official announcement.”

Source: thenationonlineng.net

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https://thenationonlineng.net/we-will-follow-sultans-directives-on-ramadan-commencement-says-muswen-president/

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Makinde: ‘I Give You 48 Hours To Withdraw The Statement’ – Fayose Threatens Atiku

February 12, 2026

Former Ekiti State Governor, Ayodele Fayose, has insisted that the recent meeting between former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, with former Military President Ibrahim Badamosi Babangida (IBB) was about the 2027 election.

Fayose, in a statement on Thursday, said he was simply amused by the denial issued by Atiku’s media aide, Phrank Shaibu.

He also threatened that should Atiku fail to disown the statement by his media aide within forty-eight hours, he would reveal more details about the meeting which took place in Minna, Niger State, particularly, what was discussed about the Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike.

In the words of Fayose, “I saw the response of one Paul Ibe, one of the Media Aides to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, to my release on what transpired at his (Atiku) meeting in Minna, with Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State, and I can’t but be amused.

“However, because of my respect for Atiku, I will want to assume that he did not authorise the press statement and I will expect that after seeing it, he will within 48 hours, cause a rebuttal to be issued on it.

“Should Atiku not publicly disown the statement within the next 48 hours, I will have no option but to spill more beans (the facilitors and executioners) of the Minna meeting, particularly what was said about Wike) and by then, I will be doing so without any atom of respect for him.

“Till then, we keep our gunpowder dry.”

Naija News recalls that Fayose, while reacting to the meeting that took place between Atiku, Makinde and IBB, claimed that the duo met with Babangida to discuss how Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State would emerge as the running mate of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar in the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

However, Atiku, in a statement, through his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication, Phrank Shaibu, described Fayose’s statement as a shameless concoction, a distortion, and cheap propaganda.

Atiku stated that at no time did he engage in the imaginary horse trading, negotiations over vice presidential tickets, or ₦10 billion contributions.

The former presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) maintained that he does not conduct politics in secrecy, bribery, or transactional desperation, as mischievously and irresponsibly portrayed, and urged the public to disregard the publication.

Source: naijanews.com

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

https://www.naijanews.com/2026/02/12/makinde-i-give-you-48-hours-to-withdraw-the-statement-fayose-threatens-atiku/

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Adeleke Has Saved Us From Global Embarrassment – Ooni’s Second-in-Command

February 12, 2026

The Obalufe of Ile-Ife, Osun State, Oba Idowu Adediwura, who is the Second-in-Command to Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, has applauded Governor Ademola Adeleke’s structural development in the state.

Speaking to Punch after a project inspection tour by officials of the Osun State Government, Adediwura said Adeleke’s projects have helped preserve the town’s cultural heritage and saved it from global embarrassment.

Adediwura, who is the head of the kingmakers, lamented that Ile-Ife had suffered years of infrastructural neglect, which he said embarrassed the cradle of the Yoruba race whenever tourists visited from across the world

‎He, however, said the ongoing ₦14bn flyover and 17 road projects initiated by the Adeleke administration had improved access to cultural centres across the town.

‎According to him, the projects would promote culture and bring honour to Ile-Ife as the origin of the Yoruba race.

‎He said, “It will be unfortunate when visitors come from all over the world to their source and see that most roads are not motorable. It is so embarrassing.

“I want to commend Governor Adeleke for saving us from global embarrassment through the ongoing flyover project and other township roads.

“With good roads, our culture will be promoted in Ife. As we approach the Olojo festival in September and the Aje festival next week, tourists and worshippers will travel on better roads.”

Source: naijanews.com

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

https://www.naijanews.com/2026/02/12/adeleke-has-saved-us-from-global-embarrassment-oonis-second-in-command/

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Kwankwassiya, NNPP Reject Proposed U.S. Visa Ban On Kwankwaso

February 12, 2026

By Enioluwa Adeniyi

The Kwankwassiya Movement and the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) have rejected a proposed United States visa ban and asset freeze on their leader, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, calling the move unfair, politically motivated and rooted in “selective judgment” against an opposition figure in Nigeria.

Their reactions followed the introduction of the Nigeria Religious Freedom and Accountability Act of 2026 in the U.S. Congress, which recommends sanctions against Kwankwaso, Miyetti Allah groups and alleged Fulani militias over claims of religious persecution.

The Spokesman of the Kwankwassiya Movement, Mansur Kurugu, said the group was taken aback by the development and is studying the implications.

“We received the information just like any other Nigerian with shock. At the moment, we are studying what that means, and at a later time, we shall issue a proper statement,” Kurugu said.

Vanguard gathered that Kwankwaso is currently out of the country.

NNPP Calls Proposal ‘Contrived’

The NNPP also condemned the sanctions proposal, describing it as an attempt to tarnish the reputation of its national leader.

In a statement, the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Ladipo Johnson, said it was “curious” that Kwankwaso was being singled out for alleged religious freedom violations he “knows nothing about.”

“We see this development as a contrived action against an innocent man who clearly has no relationship with religious fundamentalism in Nigeria,” Johnson said.

He added that Kwankwaso’s public record, both in office and in private life, does not support such allegations.

“His record is there in the public domain… and it is advisable for people to investigate properly before reaching such conclusions,” he said.

The party also challenged the basis of the proposal, particularly claims linking Kwankwaso to blasphemy laws in Kano State.

“Is Rep Riley Moore being fair or selective? Why were the other state governors who introduced Sharia in their states not accused as well? Isn’t it strange that it is Kwankwaso, an opposition leader who has consistently spoken out about insecurity, that the United States now appears to be turning on?” Johnson asked.

The NNPP argued that Kwankwaso’s political history contradicts the allegations of religious extremism.

It noted that in the 2023 presidential election, Kwankwaso ran with a Christian running mate, Bishop Isaac Idahosa, and maintained close relationships with Christian leaders in Kano.

The party also said Kwankwaso had worked to ensure Boko Haram was pushed out of Kano State during his tenure as governor.

“These are facts which should guide the U.S. Congress and its leaders to conduct a thorough investigation so that justice is done to the noble name of Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso and he is cleared of such undue embarrassment,” the statement read.

What The U.S. Bill Proposes

The Nigeria Religious Freedom and Accountability Act of 2026, sponsored by Representative Riley Moore and others, seeks to address alleged religious persecution in Nigeria.

It proposes visa bans and asset freezes on individuals and groups accused of severe violations of religious freedom, designation of certain Fulani militias as terrorist organisations, and annual reports on Nigeria’s compliance with the International Religious Freedom Act.

If passed, the legislation could intensify diplomatic and political pressure on Nigeria.

However, the Kwankwassiya Movement and the NNPP insist the inclusion of Kwankwaso in the proposal reflects political targeting rather than a credible investigation.

Source: naijanews.com

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

https://www.naijanews.com/2026/02/12/kwankwassiya-nnpp-reject-proposed-u-s-visa-ban-on-kwankwaso/

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African Union reiterates support for Somalia unity

February 12, 2026

The African Union's peace and security organ on Thursday condemned Israel's recognition of Somaliland, calling it an affront to Somalia's sovereignty.

In a communique on Thursday, the Peace and Security Council (PSC) said it strongly rejected the unilateral recognition of the "so-called Republic of Somaliland" by Israel, and called for 'its immediate revocation'.

The statement follows Israel's announcement on Dec, 26 of last year that it had officially recognized Somaliland as an independent and sovereign state, becoming the sole country to do so.

The move was condemned by the African Union and nearly all Arab countries.

Somalia has since canceled a military agreement with the United Arab Emirates (UAE), the owners of Berbera port in Somaliland.

Mogadishu has also signed defence agreements with Saudi Arabia and Qatar, and welcomed the deployment of Turkish fighter jets on its soil.

Source: africanews.com

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

https://www.africanews.com/2026/02/12/african-union-reiterates-support-for-somalia-unity/

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Southeast Asia

 

Indonesia Aims to Become Global Halal Hub as Officials Warn It Is Playing Catch-Up

Jayanty Nada Shofa

 February 13, 2026

Jakarta. Indonesia is racing to become a global halal industry hub by 2029, leveraging its status as the world’s largest Muslim-majority nation. But officials warn the country is starting late — and must urgently improve certification capacity, infrastructure, and sharia-compliant financing if it hopes to compete with established players such as Malaysia and Saudi Arabia.

Chuzaemi Abidin, a deputy at Halal Product Guarantee Agency (BPJPH), acknowledged that Indonesia is still catching up in building its sharia economy.

“We may be too late compared with others who have developed this sector for decades,” Chuzaemi said, noting that Indonesia only enacted its halal certification law in 2014, despite hosting the world’s largest Muslim population. BPJPH itself became a standalone agency only in late 2024.

So far, around 3 million Indonesian enterprises are halal-certified — a small fraction of the country’s roughly 64 million micro, small, and medium enterprises. About 11.5 million products have received halal certification nationwide.

Budget constraints mean BPJPH can provide free certification to just 1.35 million businesses in 2026. Companies that apply independently must pay Rp 230,000 ($13.68), while the agency is also encouraging large corporations and regional governments to help subsidize smaller firms.

“We need to catch up, but our halal standards are actually stronger than many overseas,” Chuzaemi said. “They want mutual recognition agreements with us. They must adopt our standards — otherwise we won’t sign.”

Such mutual recognition agreements (MRAs) allow Indonesia and partner countries to accept each other’s halal certificates, streamlining exports. BPJPH has signed MRAs with 106 foreign halal certifiers to date. However, Chuzaemi cautioned that these agreements could also open the door to a surge of imported halal products, intensifying competition at home.

To ensure local businesses are not left behind, he said Indonesia must accelerate certification for small enterprises while also improving packaging quality and export readiness. Halal certification is set to become mandatory starting Oct. 18.

Meanwhile, Bank Syariah Indonesia (BSI) estimates Indonesia’s halal exports will reach $73.9 billion in 2026, with food and beverage products accounting for the largest share. Exports of halal food and beverages could climb to $30.42 billion this year alone.

Despite the promising outlook, BSI chief economist Banjaran Surya Indrastomo said financing remains a key bottleneck.

“Many businesses struggle more with operating expenses than capital expenditure,” Banjaran said, urging sharia banks to offer more flexible products, including ijarah — Islamic leasing arrangements for property, vehicles, or commercial assets.

Source: jakartaglobe.id

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How Islamic Finance Fits into Indonesia’s Resilience Strategy

Iman Pambagyo

February 13, 2026

Early 2026 opened with a note of caution from global markets. Moody’s kept Indonesia’s sovereign rating at investment grade (Baa2) but revised its outlook to negative, citing policy predictability and fiscal risks. Around the same time, MSCI froze its review of Indonesia’s market classification, warning of potential pressure if transparency and market structure fail to improve.

This is not a crisis. But it is a reminder that market perceptions of governance, stability, and financial depth play a decisive role in shaping capital flows.

Against this backdrop, the discussion on economic resilience becomes increasingly relevant. The central question is straightforward: is Indonesia’s financial system sufficiently diversified to absorb global shocks? This is where Islamic finance deserves consideration — not as an ideological alternative, but as one pillar within the country’s broader resilience architecture.

A Timely Momentum

Indonesia’s Islamic finance sector has posted steady growth in recent years. As of June 2025, Islamic banking assets stood at about Rp 967 trillion ($57 billion), up 7.8% year on year — outpacing the national banking industry average. Market share remains modest at roughly 7–8% of total banking assets, but growth has consistently exceeded that of conventional lenders.

More broadly, total national Islamic financial assets — including sukuk, takaful, and sharia-compliant capital markets — surpassed Rp 13,000 trillion ($772 billion) by the end of 2025, accounting for more than 30% of Indonesia’s overall financial assets. Collections of Islamic social funds, such as zakat and waqf, have also risen by double digits, underscoring the potential to integrate commercial and social finance.

Globally, the halal economy — spanning food, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, modest fashion, and tourism — is estimated to be approaching $4 trillion, driven by population growth and increasingly standardized halal certification. For Indonesia, home to the world’s largest Muslim population, this represents not just a domestic opportunity but a chance for global positioning.

Still, headline numbers alone do not make Islamic finance a cure-all. The more important question is how it contributes to systemic stability.

Risk Sharing as a Shock Absorber

Modern financial systems rely heavily on debt-based financing. While efficient during expansionary cycles, such models can amplify contractions when conditions reverse — a lesson underscored by the 2008 global financial crisis.

Islamic finance offers a different approach through risk-sharing mechanisms such as mudharabah and musyarakah, where profits and losses are shared according to capital contribution. In practice, many Islamic banks still rely heavily on murabahah (cost-plus sale structures). Even so, the underlying philosophy promotes closer alignment between financing and real economic activity.

Risk sharing tends to encourage more measured expansion. It may not deliver the fastest growth, but it can provide cushioning during periods of stress. Islamic banks’ non-performing financing ratios, which have hovered around 2–3% in recent years, point to relatively contained risk profiles. For Indonesia — exposed to external volatility ranging from global interest-rate normalization to trade fragmentation — diversifying financing models is a strategic asset. The goal is not to replace conventional banking, but to complement it.

The Advantage of a Dual Banking System

Since reforms to banking law in 1998, Indonesia has operated a dual banking system, allowing conventional and Islamic banks to function side by side under a unified regulatory framework overseen by Otoritas Jasa Keuangan and Bank Indonesia.

Many countries rely on a single dominant model. Indonesia runs two in parallel. Managed well, this is not a weakness but an institutional advantage.

Conventional banks bring market depth, efficiency, and global integration. Islamic banks contribute product differentiation, access to halal markets, and value-based partnership financing. Together, they can broaden the investor and depositor base.

Government sukuk, for example, has become an important source of budget financing while attracting both domestic and international sharia-mandated investors. Islamic banks also play a growing role in extending credit to small businesses and halal industries. If developed in synergy, the dual system can deepen financial markets, strengthen inclusion, and expand funding options for enterprises.

Structural Challenges Remain

Optimism, however, must be tempered with realism.

Islamic financial literacy remains below 40% in most surveys, with inclusion at just 12–13%. Islamic banking market share has stagnated at around 7–8% for several years. Financing-to-asset ratios are lower than in conventional banks, reflecting excess liquidity and limited sharia money-market instruments. Most Islamic banks also operate at small to mid-sized capital levels, constraining economies of scale.

Regionally, Indonesia faces competition from Malaysia and Gulf countries that have built more integrated Islamic finance ecosystems. Without stronger human capital, digital innovation, and cross-sector regulatory harmonization, global leadership will remain elusive.

Four priorities stand out.

First, consolidation and scale. The Islamic banking roadmap should encourage healthy mergers, disciplined spin-offs, and the creation of well-capitalized institutions capable of channeling larger volumes of productive financing.

Second, deeper sharia money markets and hedging instruments. Bank Indonesia’s role in expanding Islamic liquidity facilities and repo instruments is critical to lowering funding costs and improving financing ratios.

Third, integration of commercial and social finance. Zakat, productive waqf, and social sukuk could be combined to support strategic projects — from MSME financing to social infrastructure — delivering more direct impact on inequality and poverty reduction.

Fourth, digitalization and product innovation. Sharia fintech, halal supply-chain financing, and tighter integration with the halal industrial ecosystem can attract younger demographics and new entrepreneurs. With these measures, pushing Islamic banking market share into double digits over the next few years is achievable rather than aspirational.

Moving Beyond False Dichotomies

As many scholars have noted, Islamic and conventional banking can coexist and reinforce each other. Indonesia’s economic resilience will not hinge on a single model, but on building a diversified yet integrated financial architecture.

In that context, Islamic finance finds its relevance: enriching funding structures, expanding inclusion, and opening pathways to global halal markets.

Signals from rating agencies should be read not merely as pressure, but as a prompt for reflection. In an increasingly uncertain world, a diversified financial system — combining debt-based and partnership-based models — functions as institutional insurance. Indonesia already has this foundation through its dual banking framework. The challenge now is ensuring both systems move in the same direction: strengthening stability, raising productivity, and sustaining market confidence.

In a volatile global landscape, resilience is not just about growth figures. It is about the depth and durability of economic structures. Managed strategically and professionally, Islamic finance can become an important part of Indonesia’s defensive wall.

Source: jakartaglobe.id

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Islamic Banking Sector Seen as Undervalued Growth Play

Heru Andriyanto, Indah Ayu Pujiastuti

February 13, 2026

Jakarta. Indonesia’s Islamic banking sector is emerging as a potential long-term growth story, supported by strong demographic fundamentals and double-digit asset growth, but market concentration and limited regional scale continue to constrain expansion.

 

As of October 2025, total assets in the sharia banking sector reached a record Rp 1,028 trillion ($61 billion), up 11.3% year on year, according to data from the Financial Services Authority (OJK). Despite the milestone, Islamic banks account for only around 7.6% of total national banking assets — underscoring what regulators describe as substantial headroom for growth.

With Muslims representing roughly 87% of Indonesia’s population — more than 200 million people — the addressable market is the largest globally. Yet penetration remains modest compared with regional peers such as Malaysia, where Islamic banking commands about 30% market share.

Industry executives argue that sharia banking’s structure — based on profit-sharing and asset-backed financing — positions it well to support micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), a key pillar of Indonesia’s economic strategy.

“At our institution, customer deposits are directed to MSME sectors, ensuring funds circulate within the real economy,” said Slamet Sulistiyono, an executive at the sharia unit of Bank Jateng.

Unlike conventional banks, Islamic lenders do not charge interest and instead treat customers as investment partners, sharing profits and losses under transparent agreements. Transactions must be backed by identifiable assets and avoid speculative or non-halal activities — a framework regulators say promotes financial discipline and closer links to productive sectors.

However, structural imbalances remain.

The 2021 merger of state-owned Islamic banking units into Bank Syariah Indonesia (BSI) created a national champion with assets of approximately Rp 456 trillion ($27.1 billion). By contrast, regional sharia units operate on significantly smaller balance sheets — Bank Jateng’s sharia unit, for example, holds assets of just Rp 7.5 trillion.

This capital concentration, industry players say, risks limiting competitive depth and slowing expansion outside major urban centers.

Indonesia currently has 14 full-fledged Islamic banks, around 20 sharia business units that have yet to spin off from parent banks, and roughly 170 district-level sharia financing services.

Ayahandayani Kurssetyowati, head of Sharia Finance at the OJK, said regulators are encouraging conventional banks to establish Islamic units to broaden market participation. She stressed that sharing offices and IT infrastructure with conventional operations does not breach Sharia principles.

“We want Islamic banking to grow larger, more competitive, and deliver measurable economic impact,” Ayahandayani said.

Still, risks include uneven regional development, regulatory asymmetries compared with Malaysia, and the potential for foreign entrants to capture market share in what is widely viewed as the world’s largest untapped Islamic banking market.

Source: jakartaglobe.id

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Selangor Sultan and Permaisuri grace Islamic affairs forum

February 13, 2026

The Selangor royal couple attended a major Islamic forum on orphan welfare, which also marked the 15th anniversary of the Darul Ehsan Islamic Foundation.

SHAH ALAM: The Sultan of Selangor, Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah, and the Tengku Permaisuri of Selangor, Tengku Permaisuri Norashikin, graced the Forum Perdana Ehwal Islam this evening.

Their Royal Highnesses attended the event at the Masjid Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah here.

The forum, titled ‘Kelahiran Insan Riayah’, marked the 15th anniversary of the Darul Ehsan Islamic Foundation (YIDE).

Organised by the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM), it focused on responsibilities towards orphans and faith-based obligations.

It emphasised the need for coordinated efforts by the government, agencies, NGOs and the public.

The one-hour forum was broadcast live on RTM’s TV1 and held at the mosque’s Dewan Syarahan dan Muzakarah Islam.

It was moderated by JAKIM’s Zakaria Othman, with panellists including Selangor Mufti Datuk Dr Anhar Opir and Pahang Deputy Mufti Datuk Badli Shah Alaudin.

Approximately 600 people attended the event, including state executive councillors.

Sultan Sharafuddin, who is the patron of YIDE, accepted mock cheques for corporate donations at the conclusion.

Donations included RM850,000 from Malaysia Airports Holdings Bhd and RM500,000 from Westports Holdings Bhd.

Affin Islamic Bank Bhd contributed RM333,000, while Teraju Ekonomi Asnaf (TERAS) donated RM100,000.

Source: thesun.my

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PM Anwar hails BNP’s Tarique Rahman after Bangladesh election win

13 Feb 2026

KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 13 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has congratulated Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) chairman Tarique Rahman and the party on their emphatic victory in Bangladesh’s general election, describing the outcome as a triumph of democracy.

In a Facebook post today, Anwar said the Bangladeshi people had delivered a clear mandate at the ballot box despite facing extraordinary challenges.

“I also wish to express appreciation to my dear friend, Dr Muhammad Yunus, for his stewardship as Chief Adviser during this important transition and for ensuring that the democratic process proceeded smoothly,” he said.

Anwar said Malaysia remains committed to enhancing engagement with the new Bangladeshi administration.

“Malaysia looks forward to working with the new Bangladeshi leadership to bring new energy to our bilateral ties. I join Malaysians in extending our warmest regards to the people of Bangladesh,” he added.

Foreign media reported that more than 127.6 million people of Bangladesh were eligible to vote in the election, which also included a referendum on constitutional reforms.

The 13th parliamentary election is seen as a significant political milestone for the nation of 175 million people following the mass uprising in August 2024 that led to the removal of former prime minister Sheikh Hasina.

Tarique, 60, is the son of former prime minister Khaleda Zia and former president Ziaur Rahman. — Bernama

Source: malaymail.com

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Finance Ministry: Strong domestic demand lifts Malaysia’s GDP to 5.2pc, narrows fiscal deficit to 3.7pc

13 Feb 2026

KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 13 — Strong domestic demand helped Malaysia outperform expectations, lifting fourth-quarter 2025 GDP to a three-year high of 6.3 per cent and full-year growth to 5.2 per cent, above the government’s forecast, said the Ministry of Finance (MOF).

MOF said this momentum pushed full-year 2025 GDP growth to 5.2 per cent, up from the 5.1 per cent achieved in 2024, putting it well ahead of the government’s official forecast range of four per cent to 4.8 per cent.

“For the second year running, the Madani Government narrowed the fiscal deficit beyond its target, to 3.7 per cent, against the initial projection of 3.8 per cent (2024: 4.1 per cent),” the ministry said in a statement.

Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM), in an earlier announcement, said that the better-than-expected GDP performance was also attributed to favourable exports, which exceeded the forecast range of 4-4.8 per cent.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim noted that the strength in macroeconomic indicators was also benefiting the rakyat, particularly with the lowest unemployment rate in over a decade at 2.9 per cent and lower inflation in 2025 at 1.4 per cent, down from 1.8 per cent in 2024.

Anwar, who is also the finance minister, stated that savings from fiscal reforms were reallocated to social assistance programs such as Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah (STR) and Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (SARA), while the government remains committed to public infrastructure projects that improve the rakyat’s quality of life.

“After three years of the Madani Administration, it is increasingly clear that the articulation of a coherent policy framework, as set out in Ekonomi Madani, followed by continued demonstration of tough reforms, has strengthened investor confidence in Malaysia.

“This is reflected in the ringgit’s ascent as Asia’s best-performing currency, rising direct investments, and the FTSE Bursa Malaysia KLCI’s strongest performance in seven years,” he said.

Anwar said that while the Madani Government recognises the progress achieved thus far, it must not rest on its laurels, as global headwinds and intensifying trade tensions continue to shape the lives of all Malaysians.

“It is imperative that we stay the course on Ekonomi Madani reforms, making 2026 a year to deepen our resolve to promote higher value-added economic activities, eradicate corruption, improve the rakyat’s quality of life, and enhance the ease of doing business,” he said.

MOF said the economy is expected to remain on a steady trajectory in 2026, supported by resilient domestic demand, firm household consumption, and continued investment momentum. Higher tourism activity under Visit Malaysia 2026, alongside increases in the minimum wage and civil servant salaries, will further reinforce consumer spending.

“Budget 2026 will lay the foundation for the 13th Malaysia Plan, 2026-2030, and other policy levers to promote inclusive and sustainable economic expansion.

“At the same time, the Madani Government will continue to uphold fiscal discipline to safeguard long-term sustainability while supporting growth momentum,” the ministry added. — Bernama

Source: malaymail.com

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Anwar: Madani govt to prioritise basic infrastructure access for Sabahans

13 Feb 2026

KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 13 — The Madani Government will ensure that the people of Sabah are no longer deprived of their right to enjoy basic infrastructure such as water and electricity, and that this effort will continue to be prioritised, said Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.

The prime minister expressed this following a courtesy call by Sabah Yang Dipertua Negeri Tun Musa Aman at his office yesterday.

Anwar said they also exchanged views on the state’s development planning and economic growth, as well as social well-being and the welfare of the people of the Land Below the Wind.

“This meeting strengthens our shared resolve to develop Sabah in a fair and comprehensive manner, based on the genuine needs of the people, so that the progress achieved is truly felt by all Sabahans,” he said in a Facebook post today. — Bernama

Source: malaymail.com

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South Asia

 

Trump administration drafting new U.S. policy on Afghanistan

By Fidel Rahmati

February 12, 2026

US officials say work continues on Washington’s new Afghanistan policy, though its announcement timeline remains unclear pending further interagency reviews and consultations.

Paul Kapur, Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs, told lawmakers that multiple US agencies are drafting a revised policy toward Afghanistan.

Speaking before a House Foreign Affairs subcommittee, Kapur said the policy is still under review and requires additional coordination before being finalized and publicly announced.

He also noted that Washington has not deported evacuated Afghans back to Afghanistan, while negotiations continue with other countries to resettle thousands currently staying in Qatar.

Several lawmakers voiced concern about the safety of Afghan women and former US partners, warning that Taliban reprisals against former security personnel remain a serious risk.

A recent United Nations report documented ongoing extrajudicial killings, arbitrary detentions, and mistreatment of former Afghan security force members since the Taliban returned to power.

The report covering the final quarter of 2025 recorded at least 14 extrajudicial killings and dozens of arrests and abuse cases involving former security officials, including returnees from neighboring countries.

Source: khaama.com

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Turnout in national election and referendum 59.44%, says EC

13 Feb 2026

Voter turnout in the 13th parliamentary election and referendum stood at 59.44 percent, the Election Commission of Bangladesh said today.

The election and referendum were held yesterday.

After completing the announcement of results this morning, EC Director of Public Relations Ruhul Amin Mollik told journalists around 11:30am that the rate of votes cast was 59.44 percent.

Thousands of men and women, some on crutches or in wheelchairs, queued patiently for hours at polling centres across the country. They stood without fear, reclaiming the opportunity to choose representatives for 299 of the 300 parliamentary seats.

Women voters turned out in large numbers, many arriving in groups, reflecting broad participation across age and gender.

Alongside electing a new parliament widely seen as critical to the country’s democratic transition after years of political turmoil, voters also took part in a referendum on constitutional reforms. Two votes were held simultaneously for the first time in the nation’s history.

Source: thedailystar.net

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Heavyweight contenders notch commanding victories nationwide

13 Feb 2026

The 13th parliamentary election was held peacefully, with unofficial results from most constituencies indicating decisive victories for several high-profile candidates who dominated public discourse both online and on the campaign trail.

BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman has been unofficially declared elected from Dhaka-17 and Bogura-6 after securing clear leads over his nearest rivals.

According to provisional figures, Tarique, contesting with the party’s “sheaf of paddy” symbol, secured 72,699 votes in Dhaka-17. His closest contender, Dr Khaleduzzaman of Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami, who contested with the scales symbol, received 68,300 votes.

In Bogura-6, Tarique obtained 216,284 votes, while his nearest rival, Abidur Rahman Sohel of Jamaat, secured 97,626 votes.

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir was unofficially elected from Thakurgaon-1, securing 238,836 votes with the party’s symbol. His margin of victory stood at 97,819 votes after final results, including postal ballots, were confirmed.

BNP Standing Committee member Mirza Abbas won Dhaka-8, receiving 59,366 votes. His closest challenger, Nasiruddin Patwary of the National Citizen Party (NCP), secured 54,127 votes.

In Netrokona-4, results from 115 of 150 centres show BNP candidate Lutfozzaman Babar obtaining 121,825 votes, compared to 31,453 votes for Jamaat-nominated candidate Md Al Helal.

BNP candidate Salahuddin Ahmed was declared winner from Cox’s Bazar-1 in unofficial results, securing 222,019 votes. His nearest rival, Jamaat candidate Abdullah Al Faruk, received 129,728 votes, reports BSS.

In Kishoreganj-4 , BNP candidate and freedom fighter Fazlur Rahman defeated Jamaat’s Rokon Reza Sheikh by nearly 72,000 votes. Fazlur secured 129,954 votes against 57,326.

Outside the BNP, several other prominent figures also secured notable victories.

Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Shafiqur Rahman won Dhaka-15, securing 85,131 votes and defeating BNP candidate Safiqul Islam Khan by a margin of 21,614 votes.

In Brahmanbaria-2, independent candidate Rumeen Farhana won unofficially with 117,495 votes, defeating Jamiat-e-Ulama-backed candidate Junaid Al Habib by a margin of 37,568 votes.

NCP Convener Nahid Islam was declared winner in Dhaka-11 with 93,872 votes, defeating BNP candidate MA Kaiyum by a margin of 2,039 votes.

In Cumilla-4, NCP Chief Organiser (South) Hasnat Abdullah secured 166,583 votes, while BNP-backed Ganadhikar Parishad candidate Jasim Uddin received 49,885 votes.

In Rangpur-4, NCP Member Secretary Akhtar Hossain won unofficially with 149,966 votes, defeating BNP candidate Emdadul Haque Bhorsa, who secured 140,564 votes.

In Noakhali-6, NCP leader Abdul Hannan Masud secured 91,899 votes, defeating BNP candidate Mahbuber Rahman Shamim, who received 64,021 votes.

According to the Election Commission, voter turnout in the 13th parliamentary election and referendum stood at 59.44 percent.

Thousands of men and women, some on crutches or in wheelchairs, queued patiently for hours at polling centres across the country. They stood without fear, reclaiming the opportunity to choose representatives for 299 of the 300 parliamentary seats.

Source: thedailystar.net

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India donates Td vaccines to Afghanistan

By Fidel Rahmati

February 12, 2026

India donates 131 cartons of Td vaccines to support vaccination services across Afghanistan.

Taliban’s public health authorities announced receiving 131 cartons of Td vaccine donated by India to support national immunization programs.

Each vial contains ten doses protecting against diphtheria and tetanus, while each carton holds 768 doses for preventive vaccination campaigns.

Officials said the vaccines will help strengthen preventive healthcare services and expand immunization coverage in vulnerable communities nationwide.

India recently also supplied about 9.5 tons of anti-cancer medicines to Afghanistan following efforts to secure additional humanitarian health assistance.

Taliban’s healthcare system continues to rely heavily on international aid amid economic difficulties and limited access to essential medical supplies.

This comes amid the Taliban’s ban on importing medicines from Pakistan, raising concerns over supply shortages and further escalating already fragile trade relations between the two sides.

Health experts warn that vaccination programs remain critical to preventing outbreaks as many communities still face gaps in basic healthcare access.

Source: khaama.com

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U.S. begins paying Afghan refugees in Qatar to return home, veterans and advocates call move a betrayal

By Fidel Rahmati

February 12, 2026

The U.S. State Department has started paying Afghans stranded in Qatar to return home, prompting warnings from veterans and advocates about betrayal.

According to Reuters, more than 1,100 Afghans have been stranded at Camp As Sayliyah, a former U.S. Army base in Qatar, since early 2025 after resettlement programs halted under the Trump administration.

The group includes civilian refugees, women who served as U.S. special operations personnel, and family members of U.S. servicemembers, many of whom face security risks if returned.

Assistant Secretary of State S. Paul Kapur told lawmakers that roughly 150 Afghans have accepted payments, which reportedly include $4,500 for main applicants and $1,200 per additional family member, though third-country relocation options remain uncertain.

Veterans and advocacy groups, including AfghanEvac, have condemned the program, warning that the so-called voluntary repatriation amounts to a betrayal of Afghan allies who assisted U.S. forces.

Democrats in Congress have criticized the initiative, calling the payments a coercive measure and highlighting risks to those returning to Taliban-controlled areas.

Camp As Sayliyah has long served as a temporary processing facility for Afghan evacuees pending U.S. resettlement, particularly for those who aided U.S. military operations during the 20-year Afghanistan war.

Prolonged delays and uncertainty have left refugees in limbo, exposing shortcomings in U.S. migration policy and raising international concerns over humanitarian and human rights obligations.

Observers warn that closing the camp and offering financial incentives without secure relocation plans undermines trust in U.S. commitments and risks endangering vulnerable Afghan refugees.

Source: khaama.com

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UNICEF announces €2 million French aid for earthquake victims in eastern Afghanistan

By Fidel Rahmati

February 12, 2026

UNICEF announces French-funded program delivering food and nutrition support to thousands of earthquake-affected families across eastern Afghanistan.

UNICEF announced a joint project with the UN Food and Agriculture Organization and France to support families affected by recent earthquakes in eastern Afghanistan.

Funded by two million euros from France, the program aims to boost food production, improve nutrition access, and reduce malnutrition among vulnerable communities.

The initiative will directly assist more than 51,000 people in Kunar and Nangarhar provinces, where many families lost livelihoods and face severe food insecurity.

UNICEF said assistance will focus on districts where productive assets were damaged, leaving families struggling to secure enough food after the disasters.

The agency added that nearly 190,000 additional people may benefit indirectly as food systems and essential services improve across affected communities.

Aid agencies warn Afghanistan faces a deepening humanitarian crisis as large numbers of Afghan refugees are forcibly deported from Pakistan and Iran, increasing pressure on already vulnerable communities.

Returning families often arrive with limited resources, worsening unemployment, food shortages, and humanitarian needs in regions already struggling with disaster impacts and economic hardship.

Source: khaama.com

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UK envoy says freedom of expression vital for Afghanistan’s future

By Fidel Rahmati

February 12, 2026

UK Special Representative for Afghanistan Richard Lindsay said independent Afghan media play a crucial role in bringing citizens’ voices to the international community.

Lindsay said on X that he met representatives of independent Afghan media to discuss their work and the importance of protecting freedom of expression.

He stressed that freedom of expression is essential for building a secure, inclusive, and prosperous future for all Afghan citizens.

“Meeting Afghan independent media representatives, we discussed how media outlets both inside & outside Afghanistan play a vital role; working together ensures Afghan voices are heard. Freedom of expression is essential for a safe, inclusive & prosperous future for all Afghans,” he stated.

The meeting comes as media operations and press freedoms have sharply declined since the Taliban returned to power more than four years ago.

Afghanistan Journalists Center previously reported that authorities have banned the broadcasting of images of living beings in more than 20 provinces since mid-2024.

Many Afghan journalists have left the country or moved their operations abroad due to growing restrictions, threats, and economic pressures facing media organizations.

International organizations continue to warn that shrinking media space in Afghanistan limits access to independent information for millions of citizens.

Source: khaama.com

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