In a development that shows the closeness between India and France, New Delhi has come in full support for the French President Emmanuel Macron who is facing uncharitable remarks particularly after by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan.

India comes in full support for French President Macron

France is leaving no stone unturned to crack down on extremists. Dozens of Islamist groups have been raided, a grand mosque has been closed for 6 months and at least 15 people have been arrested after a teacher was beheaded on 16th of October. WION's Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: What France is doing to rein in Radical Islam

Emmanuel Macron is being trolled for fighting radicalism. Turkish President Erdogan said Macron needs 'mental treatment'. Pakistan's PM Imran Khan says Macron is 'attacking Islam'. French goods are facing boycott calls within the Arab world. WION's Palki Sharma has more.

Gravitas: French President Macron fights radicalism, faces Islamic Backlash

French Minister for Foreign Affairs Jean-Yves Le Drian criticised Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan for not having expressed any condemnation or solidarity following the beheading of French history teacher Samuel Paty, who murdered for showing cartoons of the Prophet Mohammed in class. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-teacher-attack-samuel-patys-killer-had-contact-with-jihadist-in-syria-337203">Also read: Samuel Paty's killer had 'contact' with jihadist in Syria</a> 
 
“It is said that it is in hardship that one recognises one’s friends. I have drawn up this cartography and I say to those who can hear us beyond this room that nothing that we can see will be forgotten,” he added. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/erdogan-calls-for-boycott-of-french-goods-over-macrons-stance-against-radical-islam-338069">Also read: Erdogan calls for boycott of French goods over Macron's stance against radical Islam</a>

“Of course, we have received many, many expressions of support from all over the world,” the foreign minister continued, noting that “we are very touched [by those]”. “But there are also eloquent silences. And these silences, too, will not be forgotten,” said Le Drian.

Meanwhile, French police have been raiding Islamic associations and foreigners suspected of extremist religious beliefs in the aftermath of the beheading of a school teacher by a suspected Islamist.

France has also ordered the temporary closure of a mosque outside Paris, part of a crackdown on Muslims who incite hatred after the decapitation of a teacher who showed his class caricatures of the Prophet Mohammad.

History teacher Samuel Paty, 47, was murdered on Friday in broad daylight outside his school in a middle-class Paris suburb by an 18-year-old of Chechen origin. Police shot the attacker dead.

(With input from agencies)

French Minister for Foreign Affairs Jean-Yves Le Drian criticised Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan for not having expressed any condemnation or solidarity following the beheading of French history teacher Samuel Paty, who murdered for showing cartoons of the Prophet Mohammed in class.

French Minister for Foreign Affairs Jean-Yves Le Drian criticised Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan for not having expressed any condemnation or solidarity following the beheading of French history teacher Samuel Paty, who murdered for showing cartoons of the Prophet Mohammed in class. Also read: Samuel Paty's killer had 'contact' with jihadist in Syria “It is said that it is in hardship that one recognises one’s friends. I have drawn up this cartography and I say to those who can hear us beyond this room that nothing that we can see will be forgotten,” he added. Also read: Erdogan calls for boycott of French goods over Macron's stance against radical Islam “Of course, we have received many, many expressions of support from all over the world,” the foreign minister continued, noting that “we are very touched [by those]”. “But there are also eloquent silences. And these silences, too, will not be forgotten,” said Le Drian. Meanwhile, French police have been raiding Islamic associations and foreigners suspected of extremist religious beliefs in the aftermath of the beheading of a school teacher by a suspected Islamist. France has also ordered the temporary closure of a mosque outside Paris, part of a crackdown on Muslims who incite hatred after the decapitation of a teacher who showed his class caricatures of the Prophet Mohammad. History teacher Samuel Paty, 47, was murdered on Friday in broad daylight outside his school in a middle-class Paris suburb by an 18-year-old of Chechen origin. Police shot the attacker dead. (With input from agencies)

Won’t forget ‘silence’ of some states, says France after teacher’s beheading

French police has begun raiding Islamic associations and foreigners suspected of extremist religious beliefs in the aftermath of the beheading of a school teacher by a suspected Islamist.

France has also ordered the temporary closure of a mosque outside Paris, part of a crackdown on Muslims who incite hatred after the decapitation of a teacher who showed his class caricatures of the Prophet Mohammad.

History teacher Samuel Paty, 47, was murdered on Friday in broad daylight outside his school in a middle-class Paris suburb by an 18-year-old of Chechen origin. Police shot the attacker dead.

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The teenage assassin sought to avenge his victim’s use of caricatures of the Prophet Mohammad in a class on freedom of expression to 13-year-olds. Muslims believe that any depiction of the Prophet is blasphemous.

Public figures called the killing an attack on the Republic and on French values.

France is now reported to be preparing to deport 213 foreigners who were on a government watchlist and suspected of holding extreme religious beliefs, among whom about 150 are serving jail sentences.

Police detained 15 people in connection with the attack. Among them were the father of a pupil at Paty’s school and another person on the radar of intelligence services, who they said had used social media to campaign against the teacher.

They also include four school students and four family members of the terrorist.

France has also banned an Islamist group named after the late Sheikh Yassin. The banned group is named after Sheikh Yassin, a Palestinian Muslim leader and co-founder of the Hamas movement, who was assassinated in 2004. Hamas has denied any links with the French group.

With this, French President Emmanuel Macron has found a fresh momentum to push his bill to tackle extremism. His government has plans to formally present the proposed law in December.

French police has begun raiding Islamic associations and foreigners suspected of extremist religious beliefs in the aftermath of the beheading of a school teacher by a suspected Islamist.

French police has begun raiding Islamic associations and foreigners suspected of extremist religious beliefs in the aftermath of the beheading of a school teacher by a suspected Islamist. France has also ordered the temporary closure of a mosque outside Paris, part of a crackdown on Muslims who incite hatred after the decapitation of a teacher who showed his class caricatures of the Prophet Mohammad. History teacher Samuel Paty, 47, was murdered on Friday in broad daylight outside his school in a middle-class Paris suburb by an 18-year-old of Chechen origin. Police shot the attacker dead. The teenage assassin sought to avenge his victim’s use of caricatures of the Prophet Mohammad in a class on freedom of expression to 13-year-olds. Muslims believe that any depiction of the Prophet is blasphemous. Public figures called the killing an attack on the Republic and on French values. France is now reported to be preparing to deport 213 foreigners who were on a government watchlist and suspected of holding extreme religious beliefs, among whom about 150 are serving jail sentences. Police detained 15 people in connection with the attack. Among them were the father of a pupil at Paty’s school and another person on the radar of intelligence services, who they said had used social media to campaign against the teacher. They also include four school students and four family members of the terrorist. France has also banned an Islamist group named after the late Sheikh Yassin. The banned group is named after Sheikh Yassin, a Palestinian Muslim leader and co-founder of the Hamas movement, who was assassinated in 2004. Hamas has denied any links with the French group. With this, French President Emmanuel Macron has found a fresh momentum to push his bill to tackle extremism. His government has plans to formally present the proposed law in December.

France conducts raids in crackdown against extremists after teacher beheading

European Union Nations have been lending their support to French President Emmanuel Macron as calls to boycott French products intensify across the Islamic world. The Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has called for the boycott of French products while reiterating that Macron needed a 'mental check'.

Erdogan backs calls to boycott France, hurls insults at Macron

Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan has now written to Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg and appealed for ban on Islamophobic content.

Your Story: Imran Khan to Facebook: Take down Islamophobic content

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan&nbsp;Monday called on his countrymen&nbsp;to boycott French goods as relations between the NATO allies deteriorated over Paris's hardened stance against radical Islam.

"As it has been said in France, 'don't buy Turkish-labelled goods', I call on my people here. Never give credit to French-labelled goods, don't buy them," Erdogan said during a televised speech in Ankara.

Boycotts of French goods are under way in supermarkets in Qatar and Kuwait, with further calls to spurn French products in Jordan and other states.

France's foreign ministry confirmed that several Middle Eastern nations are calling for a boycott of their&nbsp;products, especially related to food and demonstrating against Paris&nbsp;over Prophet's cartoons, as reported by news agency Reuters.

The relations between Muslim nations and Paris took a hit after beheading of a French teacher by an extremist as he showed the caricatures of Prophet Mohammad in a class.

The incident was sharply condemned by French President Emmanuel Macron, as he affirmed that the nation would "not give up cartoons". He also&nbsp;said Samuel Paty, the deceased teacher, "was killed because Islamists want our future".

Erdogan's comments follow his call at the weekend for French President Emmanuel Macron to undergo mental checks, which led to Paris recalling its envoy to Ankara.

Ties between Turkey and the West have been tense following the 2016 failed overthrow of Erdogan.

But ties with France have been further strained in recent years over issues including Libya, Syria and Ankara's gas exploration in the eastern Mediterranean.

Erdogan and Macron have been at loggerheads in recent months especially over France's criticism of Turkey over Ankara's actions in the war-torn countries, and the conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan over Nagorno-Karabakh.

But Ankara has been particularly angered by Macron's policies toward Muslims, after the French leader announced a plan earlier this month to "liberate Islam in France from foreign influences".

"European leaders should tell the French president to stop his hate campaign" against Muslims, Erdogan said.

Eighteen months before a presidential election in which Macron fears a challenge from the right, Macron said this month Islam was a religion "in crisis" around the world.

Meanwhile, in his speech,&nbsp;Erdogan also criticised the attacks on mosques in Germany and Australia. "I call on German Chancellor Angela Merkel. What about the freedom of belief you claimed to have there? What about the state protecting religion and the faithful?

"Have you heard such a thing in Turkey? No. Why? Because we have real freedom of religion. But they don't have this," he said at his presidential palace inaugurating a week of celebration for the Prophet Mohamed's birth.

He also accused some Western leaders of acting like fascists and pushing Islamophobia.

"You are in a real sense the links in the chain of Nazism," said Erdogan, without giving any names. "Muslims are now subjected to a lynch campaign similar to that against Jews in Europe before World War II."

(with inputs)

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan Monday called on his countrymen to boycott French goods as relations between the NATO allies deteriorated over Paris's hardened stance against radical Islam.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan Monday called on his countrymen to boycott French goods as relations between the NATO allies deteriorated over Paris's hardened stance against radical Islam. "As it has been said in France, 'don't buy Turkish-labelled goods', I call on my people here. Never give credit to French-labelled goods, don't buy them," Erdogan said during a televised speech in Ankara. Boycotts of French goods are under way in supermarkets in Qatar and Kuwait, with further calls to spurn French products in Jordan and other states. France's foreign ministry confirmed that several Middle Eastern nations are calling for a boycott of their products, especially related to food and demonstrating against Paris over Prophet's cartoons, as reported by news agency Reuters. The relations between Muslim nations and Paris took a hit after beheading of a French teacher by an extremist as he showed the caricatures of Prophet Mohammad in a class. The incident was sharply condemned by French President Emmanuel Macron, as he affirmed that the nation would "not give up cartoons". He also said Samuel Paty, the deceased teacher, "was killed because Islamists want our future". Erdogan's comments follow his call at the weekend for French President Emmanuel Macron to undergo mental checks, which led to Paris recalling its envoy to Ankara. Ties between Turkey and the West have been tense following the 2016 failed overthrow of Erdogan. But ties with France have been further strained in recent years over issues including Libya, Syria and Ankara's gas exploration in the eastern Mediterranean. Erdogan and Macron have been at loggerheads in recent months especially over France's criticism of Turkey over Ankara's actions in the war-torn countries, and the conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan over Nagorno-Karabakh. But Ankara has been particularly angered by Macron's policies toward Muslims, after the French leader announced a plan earlier this month to "liberate Islam in France from foreign influences". "European leaders should tell the French president to stop his hate campaign" against Muslims, Erdogan said. Eighteen months before a presidential election in which Macron fears a challenge from the right, Macron said this month Islam was a religion "in crisis" around the world. Meanwhile, in his speech, Erdogan also criticised the attacks on mosques in Germany and Australia. "I call on German Chancellor Angela Merkel. What about the freedom of belief you claimed to have there? What about the state protecting religion and the faithful? "Have you heard such a thing in Turkey? No. Why? Because we have real freedom of religion. But they don't have this," he said at his presidential palace inaugurating a week of celebration for the Prophet Mohamed's birth. He also accused some Western leaders of acting like fascists and pushing Islamophobia. "You are in a real sense the links in the chain of Nazism," said Erdogan, without giving any names. "Muslims are now subjected to a lynch campaign similar to that against Jews in Europe before World War II." (with inputs)

Erdogan calls for boycott of French goods over Macron's stance against radical Islam

Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan has accused the French&nbsp;President Emmanuel Macron&nbsp;of "attacking Islam" after the French leader defended the publication of the controversial&nbsp;cartoons depicting the Prophet Mohammed.

The statement came after Macron, last week, said the teacher&nbsp;"was killed because Islamists want our future." His statement was for the French school teacher who was beheaded near the capital city Paris for showing&nbsp;cartoons of the Prophet during a class he was leading on free speech.

Commenting on his leadership skills, Imran slammed Macron saying, "Hallmark of a leader is he unites human beings, as Mandela did, rather than dividing them."

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Hallmark of a leader is he unites human beings, as Mandela did, rather than dividing them. This is a time when Pres Macron could have put healing touch &amp; denied space to extremists rather than creating further polarisation &amp; marginalisation that inevitably leads to radicalisation
— Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ImranKhanPTI/status/1320286659477442565?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 25, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"This is a time when Pres Macron could have put healing touch &amp; denied space to extremists rather than creating further polarisation &amp; marginalisation that inevitably leads to radicalisation," his tweet continued.

Khan accused Macron of encouraging 'Islamophobia' and of "attacking Islam".

Khan has spoken against Macron after he claimed, this month, that&nbsp;"Islam is a religion that is in crisis all over the world".

"It is unfortunate that he has chosen to encourage Islamophobia by attacking Islam rather than the terrorists who carry out violence, be it Muslims, White Supremacists or Nazi ideologists. Sadly, President Macron has chosen to deliberately provoke Muslims, incl his own citizens,&nbsp;through encouraging the display of blasphemous cartoons targeting Islam &amp; our Prophet PBUH. By attacking Islam, &nbsp; clearly without having any understanding of it, President Macron has attacked &amp; hurt the sentiments of millions of Muslims in Europe &amp; across the world," his tweet read.

Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan has accused the French President Emmanuel Macron of "attacking Islam" after the French leader defended the publication of the controversial cartoons depicting the Prophet Mohammed.

Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan has accused the French President Emmanuel Macron of "attacking Islam" after the French leader defended the publication of the controversial cartoons depicting the Prophet Mohammed. The statement came after Macron, last week, said the teacher "was killed because Islamists want our future." His statement was for the French school teacher who was beheaded near the capital city Paris for showing cartoons of the Prophet during a class he was leading on free speech. Commenting on his leadership skills, Imran slammed Macron saying, "Hallmark of a leader is he unites human beings, as Mandela did, rather than dividing them." Hallmark of a leader is he unites human beings, as Mandela did, rather than dividing them. This is a time when Pres Macron could have put healing touch & denied space to extremists rather than creating further polarisation & marginalisation that inevitably leads to radicalisation — Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) October 25, 2020 × "This is a time when Pres Macron could have put healing touch & denied space to extremists rather than creating further polarisation & marginalisation that inevitably leads to radicalisation," his tweet continued. Khan accused Macron of encouraging 'Islamophobia' and of "attacking Islam". Khan has spoken against Macron after he claimed, this month, that "Islam is a religion that is in crisis all over the world". "It is unfortunate that he has chosen to encourage Islamophobia by attacking Islam rather than the terrorists who carry out violence, be it Muslims, White Supremacists or Nazi ideologists. Sadly, President Macron has chosen to deliberately provoke Muslims, incl his own citizens, through encouraging the display of blasphemous cartoons targeting Islam & our Prophet PBUH. By attacking Islam, clearly without having any understanding of it, President Macron has attacked & hurt the sentiments of millions of Muslims in Europe & across the world," his tweet read.

Pakistan's Imran Khan accuses French President Emmanuel Macron of 'attacking Islam'

The beheading in France has stunned the world. French President Emmanuel Macron called the attack 'an attempt to strike down the republic'. WION's Palki Sharma tells you how the clash between secularism and Islam cannot be allowed to fester in the name of political correctness.

Gravitas: France Beheading: A clash between secularism and Islam

In the last 3 years, France has thwarted 32 terrorist attacks. Earlier this month, French President Emmanuel Macron said radical Islam is the biggest threat to French values and secularism. WION's Palki Sharma tells you why the danger is clear and present.

Gravitas: Why Islam is at odds with French Secularism?

A 14-year-old Hindu girl has been allegedly kidnapped and forcefully married in Pakistan by faking her actual age on the documents.

Parsha Kumari, a 14-year-old, was abducted from&nbsp;the Mori district of Khairpur in Sindh in Pakistan. The family had immediately filed a mission person report with the local police. However, the local police did not take any action.

Later, it was revealed that the minor was forced to convert and was later married off to&nbsp;Abdul Saboor, without consent.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-co-accused-in-lahore-motorway-gang-rape-case-surrenders-to-police-327188">Also read|&nbsp;Pakistan: Co-accused in Lahore motorway gang-rape case surrenders to police</a>

Abdul Saboor faked Kumari's age on the affidavit, claiming that she is 18-years-old, making her an adult. However, the documents submitted by her parents, her date of birth mentioned is&nbsp;15th September 2005, which makes Kumar 14 years old. She&nbsp;was a student of class IX.

The local media reported that an affidavit was presented from the girl’s side in which she claimed that her old name was Parsha Kumari and she has accepted Islam. However, Kumar's family believes she has been forced into converting and marrying Saboor, who is an adult.

Pakistan has also been in news for a sexual violence case where a woman was raped at gunpoint on Wednesday by two men before the eyes of her children after her vehicle ran out of fuel. The two men are also said to have stolen money and jewelry before fleeing the scene.

A 14-year-old Hindu girl has been allegedly kidnapped and forcefully married in Pakistan by faking her actual age on the documents. Parsha Kumari, a 14-year-old, was abducted from the Mori district of Khairpur in Sindh in Pakistan.

A 14-year-old Hindu girl has been allegedly kidnapped and forcefully married in Pakistan by faking her actual age on the documents. Parsha Kumari, a 14-year-old, was abducted from the Mori district of Khairpur in Sindh in Pakistan. The family had immediately filed a mission person report with the local police. However, the local police did not take any action. Later, it was revealed that the minor was forced to convert and was later married off to Abdul Saboor, without consent. Also read| Pakistan: Co-accused in Lahore motorway gang-rape case surrenders to police Abdul Saboor faked Kumari's age on the affidavit, claiming that she is 18-years-old, making her an adult. However, the documents submitted by her parents, her date of birth mentioned is 15th September 2005, which makes Kumar 14 years old. She was a student of class IX. The local media reported that an affidavit was presented from the girl’s side in which she claimed that her old name was Parsha Kumari and she has accepted Islam. However, Kumar's family believes she has been forced into converting and marrying Saboor, who is an adult. Pakistan has also been in news for a sexual violence case where a woman was raped at gunpoint on Wednesday by two men before the eyes of her children after her vehicle ran out of fuel. The two men are also said to have stolen money and jewelry before fleeing the scene.

Pakistan: 14-year-old forcefully converted and married to her abductor

'The Church of Almighty God' is a group that originally started from China and claims to have thousands of followers.&nbsp;It believes that Jesus Christ has returned to the Earth in the form of a Chinese woman.&nbsp;

The Christian cult is now banned in China, and is trying to make in-roads in India.

The Nagaland Baptist church in India is raising an alarm as there are reports that the cult is&nbsp;already active in the northeast and&nbsp;is steadily gaining followers through social media — platforms such&nbsp;as&nbsp;WhatsApp and YouTube.&nbsp;

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The Nagaland Baptist Church Council (NBCC) as shot off a warning. This is the central organization of nearly 1,500 Baptist churches in Nagaland.&nbsp;They claim that this cult is connecting with people across India and are targeting the youth digitally.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/economic-distancing-chinese-companies-face-debts-in-post-pandemic-world-323051">Also read|&nbsp;Economic distancing: Chinese companies face debts in post-pandemic world</a>

The group has been described as a radical group.&nbsp;It aggressively promotes doomsday scenarios and claims that Jesus has returned as a woman in China.&nbsp;

According to one report, people with limited education and family problems, especially women, are potential recruits for this cult.&nbsp;

It is a violent movement, and is&nbsp;also known as the Eastern Lightning Cult. It has been linked with more than 100 incidents of violence.&nbsp;

The origins of this cult can be traced back to 1991.&nbsp;Scholars identified a woman called Yang Xiangbin. Not a lot is known about her, except for the fact that she was born in northwestern China.&nbsp;

This cult says Jesus Christ has returned in the form of Yang Xiangbin. However, the church leaders in Nagaland have called all these claims to be falsehoods. They have said that this goes against the Christian faith.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australia-blocks-chinese-firms-bid-to-buy-major-dairy-firm-322972">Also read|&nbsp;Australia blocks Chinese firm's bid to buy major dairy firm</a>

In recent years, China has clamped down aggressively on this cult, and has banned it in China. Its members have been subjected to harsh punishment.&nbsp;Reports suggest&nbsp;they were banned from using mobile phones, watching television or even reading fiction.&nbsp;

True to China's style, the clampdown has been relentless, especially since 2014 when&nbsp;five members of this group tried to recruit a woman at a McDonalds outlet in the Shandong province.&nbsp;When she refused, the group beat her to death.&nbsp;The five accused were caught and tried before a judge.&nbsp;They were found guilty — two members were sentenced to death and the rest were sent to jail.

Such treatment is not unique to this group. China clamps down on religion&nbsp;because it is officially atheist.&nbsp;The Chinese state wants citizens to know and follow only one religion — the Communist Party of China. So,&nbsp;it made an example out of the Church of Almighty God and&nbsp;continues to crush all forms of Christianit or Islam.&nbsp;

Reports say, the Church of Almighty God now operates underground in China and thrives&nbsp;behind computer screens.&nbsp;The whereabouts of members are not known. Although, followers have emerged in the US and few European countries.

'The Church of Almighty God' is a group that originally started from China and claims to have thousands of followers. It believes that Jesus Christ has returned to the Earth in the form of a Chinese woman.

'The Church of Almighty God' is a group that originally started from China and claims to have thousands of followers. It believes that Jesus Christ has returned to the Earth in the form of a Chinese woman. The Christian cult is now banned in China, and is trying to make in-roads in India. The Nagaland Baptist church in India is raising an alarm as there are reports that the cult is already active in the northeast and is steadily gaining followers through social media — platforms such as WhatsApp and YouTube. The Nagaland Baptist Church Council (NBCC) as shot off a warning. This is the central organization of nearly 1,500 Baptist churches in Nagaland. They claim that this cult is connecting with people across India and are targeting the youth digitally. Also read| Economic distancing: Chinese companies face debts in post-pandemic world The group has been described as a radical group. It aggressively promotes doomsday scenarios and claims that Jesus has returned as a woman in China. According to one report, people with limited education and family problems, especially women, are potential recruits for this cult. It is a violent movement, and is also known as the Eastern Lightning Cult. It has been linked with more than 100 incidents of violence. The origins of this cult can be traced back to 1991. Scholars identified a woman called Yang Xiangbin. Not a lot is known about her, except for the fact that she was born in northwestern China. This cult says Jesus Christ has returned in the form of Yang Xiangbin. However, the church leaders in Nagaland have called all these claims to be falsehoods. They have said that this goes against the Christian faith. Also read| Australia blocks Chinese firm's bid to buy major dairy firm In recent years, China has clamped down aggressively on this cult, and has banned it in China. Its members have been subjected to harsh punishment. Reports suggest they were banned from using mobile phones, watching television or even reading fiction. True to China's style, the clampdown has been relentless, especially since 2014 when five members of this group tried to recruit a woman at a McDonalds outlet in the Shandong province. When she refused, the group beat her to death. The five accused were caught and tried before a judge. They were found guilty — two members were sentenced to death and the rest were sent to jail. Such treatment is not unique to this group. China clamps down on religion because it is officially atheist. The Chinese state wants citizens to know and follow only one religion — the Communist Party of China. So, it made an example out of the Church of Almighty God and continues to crush all forms of Christianit or Islam. Reports say, the Church of Almighty God now operates underground in China and thrives behind computer screens. The whereabouts of members are not known. Although, followers have emerged in the US and few European countries.

Radical Chinese Christian cult active in Northeast India: Reports

Saudi Arabia’s holy Kaaba in Mecca was adorned on Wednesday (July 29) with a new cover, also known as ‘Kiswa’, marking the beginning of the annual Haj amid tight restrictions and reduced pilgrim numbers due to the novel coronavirus pandemic.

Saudi Arabia’s Kaaba adorned with new cover as annual Haj commences

An Iranian citizen who provided information to US&nbsp;and Israeli intelligence services on the whereabouts of Iran's slain top commander Qassem Soleimani will be executed soon, Iran's judiciary said on Tuesday.

On January&nbsp;3, a US&nbsp;drone strike in Iraq killed Soleimani, the head of Iran's elite Quds Force. Washington blamed Soleimani for masterminding attacks by Iran-aligned militias on US&nbsp;forces in the region.&nbsp;

"Mahmoud Mousavi-Majd, one of the spies for CIA and Mossad has been sentenced to death. He gave the whereabouts of martyr Soleimani to our enemies," judiciary spokesman Gholamhossein Esmaili said in a televised news conference.&nbsp;

Following Soleimani's killing Iran retaliated with a rocket attack on Iraq’s Ain al-Asad base where U.S. forces were stationed on January&nbsp;8. No US&nbsp;troops were killed or faced immediate bodily injury, but hundreds were later diagnosed with traumatic brain injury.

An American airstrike&nbsp;killed Iranian Major-General Qasim Soleimani and Iraqi militia leader Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis drove the already politically fractured region into an entirely new era of high tensions and instability.

President Trump celebrated the assassination of Soleimani as a big win for America, stating that the slain commander of the Iran Revolutionary Guard's Quds Force had put in harm's way multiple American lives.

As Iran promises revenge, people of the country came out by the&nbsp;millions to protest the American operation and pay their respects to the martyred 'Hero of the Iranian people'.

An Iranian citizen who provided information to US and Israeli intelligence services on the whereabouts of Iran's slain top commander Qassem Soleimani will be executed soon, Iran's judiciary said on Tuesday.

An Iranian citizen who provided information to US and Israeli intelligence services on the whereabouts of Iran's slain top commander Qassem Soleimani will be executed soon, Iran's judiciary said on Tuesday. On January 3, a US drone strike in Iraq killed Soleimani, the head of Iran's elite Quds Force. Washington blamed Soleimani for masterminding attacks by Iran-aligned militias on US forces in the region. "Mahmoud Mousavi-Majd, one of the spies for CIA and Mossad has been sentenced to death. He gave the whereabouts of martyr Soleimani to our enemies," judiciary spokesman Gholamhossein Esmaili said in a televised news conference. Following Soleimani's killing Iran retaliated with a rocket attack on Iraq’s Ain al-Asad base where U.S. forces were stationed on January 8. No US troops were killed or faced immediate bodily injury, but hundreds were later diagnosed with traumatic brain injury. An American airstrike killed Iranian Major-General Qasim Soleimani and Iraqi militia leader Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis drove the already politically fractured region into an entirely new era of high tensions and instability. President Trump celebrated the assassination of Soleimani as a big win for America, stating that the slain commander of the Iran Revolutionary Guard's Quds Force had put in harm's way multiple American lives. As Iran promises revenge, people of the country came out by the millions to protest the American operation and pay their respects to the martyred 'Hero of the Iranian people'.

Iran will execute CIA agent involved in commander Soleimani's killing, says official

An Islamic course in Indonesia that usually runs during Ramadan has moved online this year due to social distancing measures designed to curb the spread of the new coronavirus.

Islamic Ramadan school switches to virtual classroom in Indonesia

Fire leapt from the masked performer's twirling baton as the festive Ramadan float drove through the back streets of East Jerusalem, with children cheering and parents watching from balconies.

With fire, light and music, bringing Ramadan to a fun-starved Jerusalem

Days before the holy fasting month of Ramadan begins, the Islamic world is grappling with an untimely paradox of the new coronavirus pandemic: enforced separation at a time when socializing is almost sacred.

Amid coronavirus, Muslims face Ramadan like never before

Islamists hurl stones and shoes at Women's Day marchers in Pakistan

A 2015 report says 1,000 girls in Pakistan are forced to convert to Islam every year. With minorities facing constant persecution in Pakistan - Are international watchdogs turning a blind eye? WION's Palki gets you in the WION Edit.

WION Edit: Have international watchdogs failed to call out Pak? | Gravitas

In yet another case of forced conversion in Pakistan, a 24-year-old Hindu woman was allegedly kidnapped from her wedding and<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistan-a-hub-of-forced-conversion-accuses-india-of-totalitarianism-and-racism-276082"> forcibly converted to Islam</a> in Matiari district of Sindh province.

The bride, named Bharti Bai, was to be married to a Hindu boy when she was abducted from her wedding.

According to the bride's father, his daughter’s marriage ceremony was underway when the kidnapper stormed in with several men and took his daughter away.

Reports also claimed that she was later converted to Islam and then married off to a Muslim man.

Meanwhile, a picture of the bride along with documents of her conversion to Islam and marriage to the alleged kidnapper went viral on social media.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/shared-our-concern-over-abduction-and-forced-conversion-of-sikh-girl-with-pakistan-government-india-246714">Also read: Shared our concern over abduction and forced conversion of Sikh girl with Pakistan government, says India</a>

However, based on documents that have surfaced, the Hindu girl had allegedly converted to Islam on December 1, 2019.

Her new name after converting to Islam is read as 'Bushra' in the document that appears to be certified.

Last week, another 15-year old girl named Mehak kumari was also kidnapped from Jacobabad when she went to school.

This has triggered protests by the family members of the abducted minor who raised their voice against the atrocities of forced conversion.

In Pakistan's Sindh province, several cases of abduction, conversion and marriage of young Hindu girls have been reported in the past. The incidents have raised serious concerns amongst the Hindu community in Pakistan who are questioning the Imran Khan-led government of its promises to provide security to minorities in the country.

Meanwhile, Shiromani Akali Dal leader Manjinder Singh Sirsa asks government to take a step and raised the matter with Ministry of External Affairs.

In yet another case of forced conversion in Pakistan, a 24-year-old Hindu woman was allegedly kidnapped from her wedding and forcibly converted to Islam in Matiari district of Sindh province.

In yet another case of forced conversion in Pakistan, a 24-year-old Hindu woman was allegedly kidnapped from her wedding and forcibly converted to Islam in Matiari district of Sindh province. The bride, named Bharti Bai, was to be married to a Hindu boy when she was abducted from her wedding. According to the bride's father, his daughter’s marriage ceremony was underway when the kidnapper stormed in with several men and took his daughter away. Reports also claimed that she was later converted to Islam and then married off to a Muslim man. Meanwhile, a picture of the bride along with documents of her conversion to Islam and marriage to the alleged kidnapper went viral on social media. Also read: Shared our concern over abduction and forced conversion of Sikh girl with Pakistan government, says India However, based on documents that have surfaced, the Hindu girl had allegedly converted to Islam on December 1, 2019. Her new name after converting to Islam is read as 'Bushra' in the document that appears to be certified. Last week, another 15-year old girl named Mehak kumari was also kidnapped from Jacobabad when she went to school. This has triggered protests by the family members of the abducted minor who raised their voice against the atrocities of forced conversion. In Pakistan's Sindh province, several cases of abduction, conversion and marriage of young Hindu girls have been reported in the past. The incidents have raised serious concerns amongst the Hindu community in Pakistan who are questioning the Imran Khan-led government of its promises to provide security to minorities in the country. Meanwhile, Shiromani Akali Dal leader Manjinder Singh Sirsa asks government to take a step and raised the matter with Ministry of External Affairs.

Pakistan: 24-year-old woman allegedly abducted, forcibly converted to Islam

A 24-year-old Hindu woman named Bharti Bai was allegedly kidnapped by assailants from her wedding venue in Hala, Pakistan. The girl's father was reported saying that during his daughter's marriage ceremony a kidnapper named Shah Rukh Gul came with several men along with policemen and took his daughter away in broad daylight. Later, a picture of Bharti along with documents of her conversion to Islam and marriage to Shah Rukh Gul went viral on social media according to which Bharti had converted to Islam on 1 December 2019.

Pak Hindu girl 'abducted' from wedding, Forcibly converted to Islam

Islamic State has confirmed Amir Mohammed Abdul Rahman al Mawli al-Salbi as its new leader, The Guardian reported based on information from two intelligence services.

Reportedly, Salbi was named the leader hours after the death of Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi in October. After his death, Abu Ibrahim al-Hashimi al-Quraishi was perceived as the next leader but failed to gain recognition from other senior leaders.

One of the founding members of the terror outfit, he was behind the enslavement of Iraq's Yazidi minority and has overseen operations around the globe.

Islamic State or ISIS, which was pronounced dead by many global organisations has regained traction with a new leader. Salbi was born into an Iraqi-Turkish family in the town of Tal Afar, and is one of the few non-Arabs on board. &nbsp;

<h6><img alt="ISIS" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="02d5e446-24fb-4dad-8719-7be733abc024" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design_54.jpg" /> 
 
In this file photo taken on January 13, 2020 A picture during a press tour organised by the US-led coalition fighting the remnants of the Islamic State group, shows a view of the damage at Ain al-Asad military airbase housing US and other foreign troops in the western Iraqi province of Anbar. At least 11 American troops were injured in an Iranian attack on an Iraqi base where American soldiers were deployed, US Central Command said Thursday, although the US military had previously maintained there were no casualties | AFP 
&nbsp;</h6>

He is also known by the alias Haji Abdullah, and by many as Abdullah Qardash, even though Iraqi authorities claim that Qardash was a separate ISIS figure who died two years ago.&nbsp;

An Islamic scholar, Salbi used to give religious rulings which triggered a genocide against the Yazidis. He also plundered the Nieveh Plains in northern Iraq in an IS rampage.

In the aftermath of Baghdadi's death, spies have deciphered information and found Salbi at the centre of the Islamic State decisions. He is portrayed as a hardened veteran along the same lines as Baghdadi, with unmatched loyalty towards his group.&nbsp;&nbsp;

A graduate from the University of Mosul, he holds a degree in Sharia law. Earlier in 2004, he was detained by American forces in southern Iraq where he stumbled upon Baghdadi. The Guardian reported that he has at least one offspring.

Way before Baghdadi was killed in a US military raid on October 27 in Syria, the State Department of the country had put a $5 million bounty on Salbi's head and on two other senior members of the group. With Baghdadi's deteriorating health in August, Salbi was perceived as the heir.

<h6><img alt="is" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="af2f9c98-e3f5-41be-b951-5a5cd429b62a" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%281%29_60.jpg" /> 
A woman pushes a stroller next to tents at the Kurdish-run al-Hol camp for the displaced in the al-Hasakeh governorate in northeastern Syria on January 14, 2020, where families of Islamic State (IS) foreign fighters are held. Kurdish authorities in northeast Syria warned that a UN vote to scrap The Yaroubiya entry point for cross-border aid will cripple at least half of the healthcare response in an area ravaged by battles, disrupting 60 to 70 percent of medical assistance to Al-Hol", an overcrowded desert camp brimming with tens of thousands of civilians and IS families, a Kurdish aid official said | AFP 
&nbsp;</h6>

The ISIS is now witnessing a demographic shift, with most people at the helm of the organisation being youngsters who had no or very little role to play in the battle against US forces in 2004.

Islamic State had gained considerable momentum in 2014 when Baghdadi proclaimed himself a caliph of the Islamic world. However, the organisation has been regrouping lately.

In northern Iraq, Kurdish forces have warned of an increase in attacks in the central and northern areas of the country. Between December 20 and 26, ISIS claimed to have carried out 106 attacks to avenge the death of Baghdadi and the Isis propaganda chief, Abu Hassan al-Muhaji.

Governments and agencies are now looking for Salbi, by tracking his brother Adel Salbi, a representative of the political party Turkmen Iraqi Front.

Most of the remaining ISIS mechanism is stationed at Mosul, where the communities are trying to rebuild after five years of war.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-arrests-147-islamic-state-suspects-271125">Turkey arrests 147 Islamic State suspects</a>

Islamic State has confirmed Amir Mohammed Abdul Rahman al Mawli al-Salbi as its new leader, The Guardian reported based on information from two intelligence services.

Islamic State has confirmed Amir Mohammed Abdul Rahman al Mawli al-Salbi as its new leader, The Guardian reported based on information from two intelligence services. Reportedly, Salbi was named the leader hours after the death of Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi in October. After his death, Abu Ibrahim al-Hashimi al-Quraishi was perceived as the next leader but failed to gain recognition from other senior leaders. One of the founding members of the terror outfit, he was behind the enslavement of Iraq's Yazidi minority and has overseen operations around the globe. Islamic State or ISIS, which was pronounced dead by many global organisations has regained traction with a new leader. Salbi was born into an Iraqi-Turkish family in the town of Tal Afar, and is one of the few non-Arabs on board. In this file photo taken on January 13, 2020 A picture during a press tour organised by the US-led coalition fighting the remnants of the Islamic State group, shows a view of the damage at Ain al-Asad military airbase housing US and other foreign troops in the western Iraqi province of Anbar. At least 11 American troops were injured in an Iranian attack on an Iraqi base where American soldiers were deployed, US Central Command said Thursday, although the US military had previously maintained there were no casualties | AFP He is also known by the alias Haji Abdullah, and by many as Abdullah Qardash, even though Iraqi authorities claim that Qardash was a separate ISIS figure who died two years ago. An Islamic scholar, Salbi used to give religious rulings which triggered a genocide against the Yazidis. He also plundered the Nieveh Plains in northern Iraq in an IS rampage. In the aftermath of Baghdadi's death, spies have deciphered information and found Salbi at the centre of the Islamic State decisions. He is portrayed as a hardened veteran along the same lines as Baghdadi, with unmatched loyalty towards his group. A graduate from the University of Mosul, he holds a degree in Sharia law. Earlier in 2004, he was detained by American forces in southern Iraq where he stumbled upon Baghdadi. The Guardian reported that he has at least one offspring. Way before Baghdadi was killed in a US military raid on October 27 in Syria, the State Department of the country had put a $5 million bounty on Salbi's head and on two other senior members of the group. With Baghdadi's deteriorating health in August, Salbi was perceived as the heir. A woman pushes a stroller next to tents at the Kurdish-run al-Hol camp for the displaced in the al-Hasakeh governorate in northeastern Syria on January 14, 2020, where families of Islamic State (IS) foreign fighters are held. Kurdish authorities in northeast Syria warned that a UN vote to scrap The Yaroubiya entry point for cross-border aid will cripple at least half of the healthcare response in an area ravaged by battles, disrupting 60 to 70 percent of medical assistance to Al-Hol", an overcrowded desert camp brimming with tens of thousands of civilians and IS families, a Kurdish aid official said | AFP The ISIS is now witnessing a demographic shift, with most people at the helm of the organisation being youngsters who had no or very little role to play in the battle against US forces in 2004. Islamic State had gained considerable momentum in 2014 when Baghdadi proclaimed himself a caliph of the Islamic world. However, the organisation has been regrouping lately. In northern Iraq, Kurdish forces have warned of an increase in attacks in the central and northern areas of the country. Between December 20 and 26, ISIS claimed to have carried out 106 attacks to avenge the death of Baghdadi and the Isis propaganda chief, Abu Hassan al-Muhaji. Governments and agencies are now looking for Salbi, by tracking his brother Adel Salbi, a representative of the political party Turkmen Iraqi Front. Most of the remaining ISIS mechanism is stationed at Mosul, where the communities are trying to rebuild after five years of war. Also read: Turkey arrests 147 Islamic State suspects

Founding member Al-Salbi confirmed as Islamic State's new leader: Sources

An Iranian chess referee who got accused of violating her country's Islamic dress code while making the decision of a women's tournament said she did not want to return home from Russia out of fear for her safety.

After getting accused of violating Islamic dress code, Iranian chess referee refused to go home

Kuala Lumpur Summit: A New Alliance For The Muslim World Kuala Lumpur is hosting a four-day conference of several muslim-majority nations. Even before the summit started on wednesday, it ruffled the feathers of Saudi Arabia. #Gravitas #Islam #SaudiArabia #KualaLumpur

Gravitas: The Power Politics Of Islam

A petition has been filed against Pakistan Chief of Army Staff, General Qamar Javed Bajwa, for serving despite being an Ahmadi Muslim. 
 
The petition, filed by former Major Khalid Shah in Peshawar High Court, claims that Bajwa ought not to serve as he belongs to Qadiani community.&nbsp;

Qadianis, also known as Ahmadi Muslims in Pakistan have been perceived and declared ''non-Muslims'' by the heads of all sects.

As per Pakistan's Constitution, a non-Muslim officer cannot be appointed as the army chief.

The plea also named the former DG ISI Rizwan Akhtar for failing to fulfil his duty as a Muslim by not informing the government that Bajwa is a ''non-Muslim''.

The petitioner used to study with Akhtar.&nbsp;

In August, Pakistan <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pak-pm-imran-khan-asks-party-not-to-worry-about-foreign-funding-case-263744">Prime Minister Imran Khan-led government</a> extended Bajwa's term by another three years.

The plea, filed by Shah, termed the army chief's extension as "illegal and invalid''.

Bajwa was appointed by erstwhile Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif in November 2016.

Fifty-eight-year-old Bajwa previously served as the Commander of Rawalpindi Corps. He was also employed as the Inspector General, Training and Evaluation, at GHQ, a position earlier held by his predecessor Raheel Sharif.

As a brigadier, he served as the Chief of Staff at X Corps and commanded formation division in Northern Areas as the Formation Commander (FCNA).

(With inputs from agencies)

A petition has been filed against Pakistan Chief of Army Staff, General Qamar Javed Bajwa, for serving despite being an Ahmadi Muslim. The petition, filed by former Major Khalid Shah in Peshawar High Court, claims that Bajwa ought not to serve as he belongs to Qadiani community.

A petition has been filed against Pakistan Chief of Army Staff, General Qamar Javed Bajwa, for serving despite being an Ahmadi Muslim. The petition, filed by former Major Khalid Shah in Peshawar High Court, claims that Bajwa ought not to serve as he belongs to Qadiani community. Qadianis, also known as Ahmadi Muslims in Pakistan have been perceived and declared ''non-Muslims'' by the heads of all sects. As per Pakistan's Constitution, a non-Muslim officer cannot be appointed as the army chief. The plea also named the former DG ISI Rizwan Akhtar for failing to fulfil his duty as a Muslim by not informing the government that Bajwa is a ''non-Muslim''. The petitioner used to study with Akhtar. In August, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan-led government extended Bajwa's term by another three years. The plea, filed by Shah, termed the army chief's extension as "illegal and invalid''. Bajwa was appointed by erstwhile Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif in November 2016. Fifty-eight-year-old Bajwa previously served as the Commander of Rawalpindi Corps. He was also employed as the Inspector General, Training and Evaluation, at GHQ, a position earlier held by his predecessor Raheel Sharif. As a brigadier, he served as the Chief of Staff at X Corps and commanded formation division in Northern Areas as the Formation Commander (FCNA). (With inputs from agencies)

Plea filed against Pakistan's Chief of Army Staff for being 'non-muslim'

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brics-stands-united-in-resolving-israel-palestine-middle-east-conflict-262207">Israel</a>&nbsp;launched fresh strikes against Islamic Jihad targets in Gaza, the army said early Friday, weakening a ceasefire put in place after fighting this week killed 34 Palestinians in exchanges of fire.

The ceasefire began Thursday morning following two days of deadly violence in the Gaza Strip triggered by an Israeli strike on an Islamic Jihad commander.

Israel&nbsp;Defence Forces (IDF) told reporters that new overnight strikes were underway on Islamic Jihad, the second most powerful Palestinian militant group in Gaza after Hamas.

It came after five rockets were fired at&nbsp;Israel&nbsp;from Gaza -- also after the ceasefire came into effect -- with two of them intercepted by air defences, according to the army.

"The IDF views the violation of the ceasefire and rockets directed at&nbsp;Israel&nbsp;with great severity," the army said in a news release.

Israel's military was prepared to "continue operating as necessary against all attempts to harm&nbsp;Israel&nbsp;civilians", it said.

Two injured citizens were being treated in hospital in the southern part of the territory, according to the health ministry in Gaza.

The ceasefire brokered by Egyptian and UN officials, the usual mediators between Gaza and&nbsp;Israel, was agreed as the flare-up raised fears of a new all-out conflict.

During the day on Thursday normal life had resumed quietly in Israeli regions near the Gaza border, while in Gaza, citizens had also embraced the return of relative calm.

"We hope for peace, we don't want war," said Mahmoud Jarda, an inhabitant of the enclave.

Bomb shelters

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/islamic-jihad-israel-halt-hostilities-in-gaza-34-palestinians-dead-262070">The escalation</a> began early Tuesday with&nbsp;Israel's targeted killing of a top Islamic Jihad commander, Baha Abu al-Ata, whom it accused of being behind rocket fire and other attacks.

The violence came at a politically sensitive time for&nbsp;Israel, with no new government in place since a September election ended in deadlock.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Abu al-Ata "was killed alongside dozens of terrorists" after the strike on his home, adding: "Our enemies got the message: We can reach anyone, even in their bed."

That strike triggered almost immediate retaliatory rocket fire from Islamic Jihad at&nbsp;Israel, setting off air-raid sirens and sending Israelis rushing to bomb shelters in the country's south and central regions.

Israel's military said some 450 rockets had been fired at its territory since Tuesday morning and air defences had intercepted dozens of them in fireballs high in the sky.

No Israelis were killed, though one rocket narrowly missed speeding cars on a busy highway. Israeli medics said they had treated some 63 people as of Wednesday night for mild injuries and stress.

Israel&nbsp;responded with airstrikes, saying it targeted more Islamic Jihad militant sites and rocket- and missile-launching squads.

Violent escalation&nbsp;

Islamic Jihad has said several more of its members were among those killed in the fighting this week.

Palestinian officials said eight members of the same family, including five children, were killed in an Israeli strike in the central Gaza Strip.

Israel's military said the man targeted and killed in that strike was an Islamic Jihad rocket unit commander.

"He, like many others, had the tactic of hiding ammunition and military infrastructure in their own residence," said military spokesman Jonathan Conricus.

"Of course we try always to minimise the amount of non-combatants killed or injured."

Relatives, neighbours and an Islamic Jihad spokesman disputed that he belonged to the militia, with some saying he had previously worked as a Palestinian Authority (PA) military police officer.

"This is a war crime," said neighbour Adan Abu Abdallah. "You are killing innocent children, sleeping at home."

Weekly protests

Unusually,&nbsp;Israel&nbsp;has singled out Islamic Jihad rather than hold Hamas -- the Islamist movement that rules Gaza -- responsible for the violence.

Israeli analysts said it was a clear signal the army sought to avoid a wider conflict in Gaza, where&nbsp;Israel&nbsp;and Palestinian militants have fought three wars since 2008.

Hamas repeatedly said it would not abandon its ally, but its decision not to join the fight helped maintain a fragile truce with&nbsp;Israel&nbsp;that has seen tens of millions of dollars in Qatari aid flow into the impoverished Gaza Strip since last year.

An Egyptian official said the ceasefire had included an agreement that Palestinian groups in Gaza work to prevent violence by demonstrators during weekly protests near the border fence.

In return,&nbsp;Israel&nbsp;agreed to stop hostilities and commit to a ceasefire during the weekly demonstrations, according to the official.

Israel&nbsp;did not confirm any of those claims.

Netanyahu did not comment publicly on the ceasefire, but had warned a day earlier that Islamic Jihad must stop its rocket attacks or "absorb more and more blows".

He added that&nbsp;Israel&nbsp;did not want a further escalation but, if necessary, was prepared to respond "without mercy".

Israel launched fresh strikes against Islamic Jihad targets in Gaza, the army said early Friday, weakening a ceasefire put in place after fighting this week killed 34 Palestinians in exchanges of fire.

Israel launched fresh strikes against Islamic Jihad targets in Gaza, the army said early Friday, weakening a ceasefire put in place after fighting this week killed 34 Palestinians in exchanges of fire. The ceasefire began Thursday morning following two days of deadly violence in the Gaza Strip triggered by an Israeli strike on an Islamic Jihad commander. Israel Defence Forces (IDF) told reporters that new overnight strikes were underway on Islamic Jihad, the second most powerful Palestinian militant group in Gaza after Hamas. It came after five rockets were fired at Israel from Gaza -- also after the ceasefire came into effect -- with two of them intercepted by air defences, according to the army. "The IDF views the violation of the ceasefire and rockets directed at Israel with great severity," the army said in a news release. Israel's military was prepared to "continue operating as necessary against all attempts to harm Israel civilians", it said. Two injured citizens were being treated in hospital in the southern part of the territory, according to the health ministry in Gaza. The ceasefire brokered by Egyptian and UN officials, the usual mediators between Gaza and Israel, was agreed as the flare-up raised fears of a new all-out conflict. During the day on Thursday normal life had resumed quietly in Israeli regions near the Gaza border, while in Gaza, citizens had also embraced the return of relative calm. "We hope for peace, we don't want war," said Mahmoud Jarda, an inhabitant of the enclave. Bomb shelters The escalation began early Tuesday with Israel's targeted killing of a top Islamic Jihad commander, Baha Abu al-Ata, whom it accused of being behind rocket fire and other attacks. The violence came at a politically sensitive time for Israel, with no new government in place since a September election ended in deadlock. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Abu al-Ata "was killed alongside dozens of terrorists" after the strike on his home, adding: "Our enemies got the message: We can reach anyone, even in their bed." That strike triggered almost immediate retaliatory rocket fire from Islamic Jihad at Israel, setting off air-raid sirens and sending Israelis rushing to bomb shelters in the country's south and central regions. Israel's military said some 450 rockets had been fired at its territory since Tuesday morning and air defences had intercepted dozens of them in fireballs high in the sky. No Israelis were killed, though one rocket narrowly missed speeding cars on a busy highway. Israeli medics said they had treated some 63 people as of Wednesday night for mild injuries and stress. Israel responded with airstrikes, saying it targeted more Islamic Jihad militant sites and rocket- and missile-launching squads. Violent escalation Islamic Jihad has said several more of its members were among those killed in the fighting this week. Palestinian officials said eight members of the same family, including five children, were killed in an Israeli strike in the central Gaza Strip. Israel's military said the man targeted and killed in that strike was an Islamic Jihad rocket unit commander. "He, like many others, had the tactic of hiding ammunition and military infrastructure in their own residence," said military spokesman Jonathan Conricus. "Of course we try always to minimise the amount of non-combatants killed or injured." Relatives, neighbours and an Islamic Jihad spokesman disputed that he belonged to the militia, with some saying he had previously worked as a Palestinian Authority (PA) military police officer. "This is a war crime," said neighbour Adan Abu Abdallah. "You are killing innocent children, sleeping at home." Weekly protests Unusually, Israel has singled out Islamic Jihad rather than hold Hamas -- the Islamist movement that rules Gaza -- responsible for the violence. Israeli analysts said it was a clear signal the army sought to avoid a wider conflict in Gaza, where Israel and Palestinian militants have fought three wars since 2008. Hamas repeatedly said it would not abandon its ally, but its decision not to join the fight helped maintain a fragile truce with Israel that has seen tens of millions of dollars in Qatari aid flow into the impoverished Gaza Strip since last year. An Egyptian official said the ceasefire had included an agreement that Palestinian groups in Gaza work to prevent violence by demonstrators during weekly protests near the border fence. In return, Israel agreed to stop hostilities and commit to a ceasefire during the weekly demonstrations, according to the official. Israel did not confirm any of those claims. Netanyahu did not comment publicly on the ceasefire, but had warned a day earlier that Islamic Jihad must stop its rocket attacks or "absorb more and more blows". He added that Israel did not want a further escalation but, if necessary, was prepared to respond "without mercy".

Israel strikes Islamic Jihad targets in Gaza despite ceasefire

Turkey has deported an American foreign fighter and will soon deport another seven Germans, a spokesman for the interior ministry was quoted as saying on Monday after state media said Ankara began repatriation of captured Islamic State militants.

Interior Minister Suleyman Soylu had warned last week that Ankara would begin to send back Islamic State militants to their home countries on Monday even if their citizenships have been revoked.

"One American foreign terrorist fighter whose proceedings are completed has been deported," ministry spokesman Ismail Catakli was quoted as saying by state-run Anadolu news agency.

"Travel plans for seven foreign terrorist fighters of German origin at deportation centres have been completed, they will be deported on Nov. 14," he added.

Broadcaster NTV quoted Catakli as saying that "three more Islamic State militants at deportation centres will be sent back today."

Turkey aims to repatriate around 2,500 militants, the majority of whom will be sent to European Union nations, state broadcaster TRT Haber said, adding there were currently 813 jihadists at 12 deportation centres in the country.

Turkey launched an offensive into northeastern Syria against the Kurdish YPG militia last month following a decision by President Donald Trump to withdraw U.S. troops from the region.

The YPG, the main element of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) and a US&nbsp;ally against Islamic State, has kept thousands of jihadists in jails across northeast Syria.

The Turkish offensive prompted widespread concern over the fate of the prisoners, with Turkey's Western allies and the SDF warning it could hinder the fight against Islamic State and aid its resurgence.

Turkey, which views the YPG as a terrorist group linked with insurgent Kurdish militants on its own soil, has rejected those concerns and vowed to combat Islamic State with its allies.

It has repeatedly called on European countries, including France, to take back their citizens fighting for the jihadists.

Europeans comprise a fifth of the around 10,000 Islamic State fighters held captive in Syria by Kurdish militias. Denmark, Germany and Britain have so far revoked some citizenships.

Last week, Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan was cited as saying that there are 1,201 Islamic State prisoners in Turkish jails, while Turkey had captured 287 militants in Syria.

The United States said last month that it had killed Islamic State's leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi in northwestern Syria. Last week, Erdogan said Turkey had captured 13 people from Baghdadi's close circle, adding that they were being interrogated.

Islamic State has vowed revenge against the United States.

Turkey has deported an American foreign fighter and will soon deport another seven Germans, a spokesman for the interior ministry was quoted as saying on Monday after state media said Ankara began repatriation of captured Islamic State militants.

Turkey has deported an American foreign fighter and will soon deport another seven Germans, a spokesman for the interior ministry was quoted as saying on Monday after state media said Ankara began repatriation of captured Islamic State militants. Interior Minister Suleyman Soylu had warned last week that Ankara would begin to send back Islamic State militants to their home countries on Monday even if their citizenships have been revoked. "One American foreign terrorist fighter whose proceedings are completed has been deported," ministry spokesman Ismail Catakli was quoted as saying by state-run Anadolu news agency. "Travel plans for seven foreign terrorist fighters of German origin at deportation centres have been completed, they will be deported on Nov. 14," he added. Broadcaster NTV quoted Catakli as saying that "three more Islamic State militants at deportation centres will be sent back today." Turkey aims to repatriate around 2,500 militants, the majority of whom will be sent to European Union nations, state broadcaster TRT Haber said, adding there were currently 813 jihadists at 12 deportation centres in the country. Turkey launched an offensive into northeastern Syria against the Kurdish YPG militia last month following a decision by President Donald Trump to withdraw U.S. troops from the region. The YPG, the main element of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) and a US ally against Islamic State, has kept thousands of jihadists in jails across northeast Syria. The Turkish offensive prompted widespread concern over the fate of the prisoners, with Turkey's Western allies and the SDF warning it could hinder the fight against Islamic State and aid its resurgence. Turkey, which views the YPG as a terrorist group linked with insurgent Kurdish militants on its own soil, has rejected those concerns and vowed to combat Islamic State with its allies. It has repeatedly called on European countries, including France, to take back their citizens fighting for the jihadists. Europeans comprise a fifth of the around 10,000 Islamic State fighters held captive in Syria by Kurdish militias. Denmark, Germany and Britain have so far revoked some citizenships. Last week, Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan was cited as saying that there are 1,201 Islamic State prisoners in Turkish jails, while Turkey had captured 287 militants in Syria. The United States said last month that it had killed Islamic State's leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi in northwestern Syria. Last week, Erdogan said Turkey had captured 13 people from Baghdadi's close circle, adding that they were being interrogated. Islamic State has vowed revenge against the United States.

Turkey starts repatriation of captured Islamic State militants: Report

The Islamic State group's Afghan branch has been "defeated" in one of the key eastern provinces where it first sought to establish a stronghold, a top Afghan security official said Sunday.

The claim comes after the jihadists first burst into Afghanistan's conflict in 2015, when they overran large parts of Nangarhar and Kunar provinces, near the Pakistan border.

In the years since, they have claimed responsibility for a string of horrific bombings across Afghanistan, including at a wedding hall in Kabul, and have been continually attacked by US, Afghan and even Taliban forces.

IS "were defeated in Nangarhar, their centres were destroyed", acting interior minister Massoud Andarabi told reporters in Jalalabad, the Nangarhar provincial capital, amid ongoing operations against the jihadists.&nbsp;

"We will soon destroy their last centres. With the people's help, we will completely eliminate them. Some of their smaller groups are surrendering, other small groups will be eliminated in other provinces."

He went on to say that IS were being "completely defeated" in Afghanistan.

US Forces-Afghanistan, which closely monitors the IS footprint in Afghanistan, declined to comment, referring a query back to the Interior Ministry.

Attaullah Khogyani, the spokesman for Nangarhar's governor, said 32 IS fighters surrendered to government forces on Saturday.&nbsp;

"They are coming in big numbers," he told AFP.&nbsp;

IS have suffered a string of major defeats in recent months, including the collapse of their self-proclaimed "caliphate" in Syria and the death of the group's leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, who was killed in a US raid in Syria last month.&nbsp;

Connections between Baghdadi and the IS affiliate in Afghanistan, better known as IS in the Khorasan, or IS-K, have always been murky.&nbsp;

But Khogyani said Baghdadi's death had disrupted IS-K's command and control structure.

"It has affected the fighters on the ground here, they are either surrendering to the government or going back to their ordinary lives," he said.

The Islamic State group's Afghan branch has been "defeated" in one of the key eastern provinces where it first sought to establish a stronghold, a top Afghan security official said Sunday.

The Islamic State group's Afghan branch has been "defeated" in one of the key eastern provinces where it first sought to establish a stronghold, a top Afghan security official said Sunday. The claim comes after the jihadists first burst into Afghanistan's conflict in 2015, when they overran large parts of Nangarhar and Kunar provinces, near the Pakistan border. In the years since, they have claimed responsibility for a string of horrific bombings across Afghanistan, including at a wedding hall in Kabul, and have been continually attacked by US, Afghan and even Taliban forces. IS "were defeated in Nangarhar, their centres were destroyed", acting interior minister Massoud Andarabi told reporters in Jalalabad, the Nangarhar provincial capital, amid ongoing operations against the jihadists. "We will soon destroy their last centres. With the people's help, we will completely eliminate them. Some of their smaller groups are surrendering, other small groups will be eliminated in other provinces." He went on to say that IS were being "completely defeated" in Afghanistan. US Forces-Afghanistan, which closely monitors the IS footprint in Afghanistan, declined to comment, referring a query back to the Interior Ministry. Attaullah Khogyani, the spokesman for Nangarhar's governor, said 32 IS fighters surrendered to government forces on Saturday. "They are coming in big numbers," he told AFP. IS have suffered a string of major defeats in recent months, including the collapse of their self-proclaimed "caliphate" in Syria and the death of the group's leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, who was killed in a US raid in Syria last month. Connections between Baghdadi and the IS affiliate in Afghanistan, better known as IS in the Khorasan, or IS-K, have always been murky. But Khogyani said Baghdadi's death had disrupted IS-K's command and control structure. "It has affected the fighters on the ground here, they are either surrendering to the government or going back to their ordinary lives," he said.

Islamic State 'defeated' in key Afghan province: Report

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A transgender candidate has been elected as councillor for a rural Bangladeshi town, the first in the ultra-conservative Muslim-majority nation where laws still discriminate against sexual minorities.

Pinki&nbsp;Khatun&nbsp;was elected as vice-chair of a town council in the country's west on Monday after beating her nearest rival by more than 4,000 votes, local police chief Mahbubul Alam said.

"I am very delighted. I campaigned door-to-door and people have responded positively,"&nbsp;the garment shop owner told AFP.

"I did not face any discrimination or hate campaigns."

Bangladesh has allowed transgenders, known as hijra,&nbsp;an umbrella term referring to someone who is born male but does not refer to themselves as a man or woman, to identify as a separate gender since 2013.&nbsp;

This year, they were allowed to register to vote identifying as this gender.

The 37-year-old councillor is a youth wing official of the ruling Awami League and campaigned as an independent candidate in the 200,000-population town of Kotchandpur after the party did not back anyone.

"My aim is to work for the betterment of women and protect their rights," said the councillor, who previously identified as a woman.

"I'll work for hijras so they can live honourably in society."

The government says there are some 10,000 hijras in Bangladesh but independent estimates say they could number up to 500,000, with many hiding their identity to avoid discrimination.

Bangladesh still has a British colonial-era&nbsp;law where anyone who engages in gay sex faces life in prison, although the legislation is rarely used.

The LGBT community also faces social discrimination.

Transgender rights activist Anonnya Banik said the election of the country's first transgender politician was a "big achievement".

"It will create a positive impact on society and inspire other trans-people. I think it reflects a change in Bangladesh people's attitude towards trans-people," Banik told AFP.&nbsp;

A transgender candidate has been elected as councillor for a rural Bangladeshi town, the first in the ultra-conservative Muslim-majority nation where laws still discriminate against sexual minorities.

A transgender candidate has been elected as councillor for a rural Bangladeshi town, the first in the ultra-conservative Muslim-majority nation where laws still discriminate against sexual minorities. Pinki Khatun was elected as vice-chair of a town council in the country's west on Monday after beating her nearest rival by more than 4,000 votes, local police chief Mahbubul Alam said. "I am very delighted. I campaigned door-to-door and people have responded positively," the garment shop owner told AFP. "I did not face any discrimination or hate campaigns." Bangladesh has allowed transgenders, known as hijra, an umbrella term referring to someone who is born male but does not refer to themselves as a man or woman, to identify as a separate gender since 2013. This year, they were allowed to register to vote identifying as this gender. The 37-year-old councillor is a youth wing official of the ruling Awami League and campaigned as an independent candidate in the 200,000-population town of Kotchandpur after the party did not back anyone. "My aim is to work for the betterment of women and protect their rights," said the councillor, who previously identified as a woman. "I'll work for hijras so they can live honourably in society." The government says there are some 10,000 hijras in Bangladesh but independent estimates say they could number up to 500,000, with many hiding their identity to avoid discrimination. Bangladesh still has a British colonial-era law where anyone who engages in gay sex faces life in prison, although the legislation is rarely used. The LGBT community also faces social discrimination. Transgender rights activist Anonnya Banik said the election of the country's first transgender politician was a "big achievement". "It will create a positive impact on society and inspire other trans-people. I think it reflects a change in Bangladesh people's attitude towards trans-people," Banik told AFP.

First transgender councillor elected in Bangladesh

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