In a historic moment of interfaith solidarity, Pope Francis and Grand Imam Nasaruddin Umar of Southeast Asia’s largest mosque, Istiqlal Mosque in Jakarta, jointly pledged to combat religiously inspired violence and address the pressing climate crisis. The leaders issued the “Joint Declaration of Istiqlal 2024” during the Pope’s visit to Indonesia, marking a significant step in fostering global harmony and environmental stewardship. The declaration emphasized that religion must never be used to justify violence but should instead promote peace, human dignity, and environmental protection. The event, held at the iconic Istiqlal Mosque, brought together representatives of Indonesia’s six officially recognized religions: Islam, Buddhism, Confucianism, Hinduism, Catholicism, and Protestantism. The gathering underscored the nation’s commitment to religious freedom, despite ongoing challenges of intolerance and discrimination. Francis and Umar’s personal rapport was evident as they shared heartfelt gestures of mutual respect, symbolizing the potential for unity across faiths. The Pope’s visit also included a jubilant Mass at Jakarta’s stadium, attended by an estimated 100,000 faithful, where he urged Indonesians to build a civilization of peace and hope. This visit is part of Francis’ 11-day journey across Southeast Asia and Oceania, aimed at strengthening Catholic-Muslim ties and promoting fraternity. The Istiqlal Declaration builds on Francis’ longstanding efforts to bridge religious divides, following similar initiatives in the Gulf and Iraq. The document also highlighted the urgent need for decisive action to combat climate change, a cause close to the Pope’s heart, particularly in Indonesia, a nation vulnerable to environmental crises. Umar emphasized the mosque’s role as a unifying space, designed by a Christian architect and serving diverse communities. The event concluded with a powerful message of unity, as Francis and Umar called on people of all faiths to work together for a sustainable and peaceful future.
作者： admin
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Expo City Dubai News
In a heartwarming moment at Expo 2020 Dubai, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, paused to engage with a group of enthusiastic school children. As Sheikh Mohammed approached, the children burst into cheers and eagerly waved at him, their excitement palpable. Seizing the opportunity, he graciously stopped for a quick photo with the young admirers, creating a memorable experience for them. This spontaneous interaction highlighted Sheikh Mohammed’s approachable demeanor and his commitment to fostering connections with the younger generation. The incident, captured on video, quickly garnered attention, showcasing the warmth and accessibility of the UAE’s leadership during the global event.
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Israel’s ultra-Orthodox leaders failed. That’s why they may stick with Netanyahu
Israel’s ultra-Orthodox community, known as the Haredim, has long been exempt from military service, a privilege that has sparked significant debate and legal challenges. On Tuesday, the High Court of Israel ruled that this exemption could no longer stand, mandating that Haredim must serve in the military like other Israeli citizens. Additionally, the court decided that the state could no longer fund ultra-Orthodox education services, a decision that has deeply impacted a community heavily reliant on such aid. This ruling comes after years of legal battles and societal pressure, particularly intensified by the ongoing conflict in Gaza and the need for increased military manpower. The Haredim, who have traditionally prioritized religious education over military service, now face a critical juncture. The community’s leadership, though expecting the court’s decision, is frustrated by the outcome, especially given the current right-wing government’s inability to secure their interests. The ruling has also exacerbated tensions within the coalition government, as far-right parties, who advocate for military service, clash with the Haredim’s demands for exemption. Beyond military conscription, the Haredim are grappling with a potential budget crisis. The freeze on education funding threatens the very foundation of their society, which depends heavily on state support. This dual crisis of conscription and funding could lead to the dissolution of the government, as Haredi leaders struggle to navigate the political landscape. The ultra-Orthodox community, traditionally insular and focused on religious life, now finds itself at the center of Israel’s political debate, a position that is both unfamiliar and challenging. As the government and the Haredim seek a resolution, the broader Israeli public remains divided, with a growing consensus that the ultra-Orthodox must contribute to national defense. The outcome of this struggle will have profound implications for Israel’s social fabric and political stability.
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Israel-Palestine war: A quick history of Christianity in Gaza
The Israeli airstrike on the fifth-century Church of Saint Porphyrius in Gaza has drawn international attention to the besieged territory’s diminishing Christian population, killing at least 18 civilians who had sought refuge within its sacred walls. This attack on one of Christianity’s oldest surviving places of worship underscores the vulnerable position of Palestinian Christians in the conflict-ridden region.
Gaza’s Christian community, numbering approximately 1,100 today, represents a continuous spiritual lineage dating back to the earliest centuries of Christianity. The territory holds profound biblical significance, specifically mentioned in Acts 8 regarding Philip the Evangelist’s journey between Jerusalem and Gaza. The Church of Saint Porphyrius, established in 425 CE and reconstructed by Crusaders in the 12th century, stands alongside the fourth-century Tell Umm Amer monastery as testament to Gaza’s rich Christian heritage.
Christianity took firm root in Gaza during the fifth century under Byzantine influence, overcoming strong pagan traditions through the missionary work of figures like Bishop Porphyrius. The faith flourished until the Arab conquests brought gradual Islamization, though a Christian minority persisted through centuries of change.
The modern era has witnessed a dramatic decline in Gaza’s Christian population, from approximately 6,000 in the 1960s to today’s precarious numbers. Like their Muslim counterparts, Palestinian Christians have endured displacement since the 1948 Nakba and Israel’s subsequent blockade imposed in 2007. They face severe restrictions on movement, requiring Israeli permits to visit holy sites in Jerusalem or the West Bank—permits that are frequently denied even for major religious observances like Christmas and Easter.
Despite their small numbers, Gaza’s churches have traditionally served as sanctuaries for all civilians during conflicts. The bombing of Saint Porphyrius challenges this historical protection and raises concerns about the preservation of ancient Christian heritage in the region. The incident highlights how Gaza’s Christians, while maintaining unique religious traditions, see themselves as inseparable from the broader Palestinian national identity and shared struggle.
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Saudi Arabia formally informs FIFA of its wish to host the 2034 World Cup as the favorite to win
In a strategic move that positions Saudi Arabia as the frontrunner to host the 2034 FIFA Men’s World Cup, the Saudi Arabian Football Federation formally submitted its bid to FIFA on Monday. The kingdom’s candidacy is bolstered by a streamlined bidding process that restricts participation to members of the Asian and Oceania football governing bodies. This development follows FIFA’s recent decision to fast-track the 2034 hosting contest, effectively paving the way for Saudi Arabia’s potential victory. The 2030 World Cup, set to be co-hosted by six nations across three continents—Europe, Africa, and South America—has already been decided, leaving Asia as the focal point for the 2034 edition. Saudi Arabia’s bid is supported by over 70 of FIFA’s 211 member federations, reflecting its global outreach and commitment to expanding football’s reach. The kingdom’s infrastructure, including its readiness to host the 2027 Asian Cup, aligns with FIFA’s stringent hosting criteria. However, the bid has sparked concerns about potential scheduling conflicts, as the tournament would likely be held in November-December, disrupting European football leagues. FIFA’s decision-making process, influenced by its 37-member council, is expected to finalize the 2034 host by late next year. Saudi Arabia’s growing influence in global football, underscored by its acquisition of Newcastle United and investments in domestic clubs, further solidifies its candidacy.
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Sudan crisis: Burhan and Hemedti – the two generals at the heart of the conflict
The streets of Khartoum, Sudan’s capital, are now a battleground, echoing with explosions and shrouded in smoke. The country has plunged into chaos as two powerful generals, Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, leader of the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF), and Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, known as Hemedti, head of the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), engage in a fierce struggle for supremacy. Once allies in the 2019 coup that ousted former dictator Omar al-Bashir, their rivalry now threatens to dismantle the nation. Their relationship dates back to the Darfur conflict, where both played pivotal roles in counter-insurgency operations. Hemedti, once a militia leader, rose to prominence by aligning with the Saudi-led coalition in Yemen, while al-Burhan solidified his position within the SAF. Despite their past collaboration, tensions escalated after the 2021 military takeover, with al-Burhan accused of reinstating Bashir-era loyalists, prompting Hemedti’s dissent. Hemedti, often marginalized by Sudan’s elite, has sought to position himself as a national leader, advocating for democracy while consolidating power through his vast business empire. The current conflict centers on the integration of the RSF into the regular armed forces, a contentious issue that has reignited hostilities. As the fighting intensifies, civilians bear the brunt of the violence, and the future of Sudan hangs in the balance.
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Iraq war: Twenty years after ‘shock and awe’, Mosul residents still picking up the pieces
Two decades ago, on March 20, 2003, the United States and its allies launched a devastating military campaign against Iraq, marking the beginning of a conflict that would reshape the nation’s destiny. The invasion, initiated under the pretext of eliminating weapons of mass destruction (WMDs) allegedly harbored by Saddam Hussein, quickly escalated into a full-scale war. The ‘shock and awe’ strategy saw hundreds of missiles rain down on Baghdad, leaving the city in ruins and its citizens in chaos. Despite the swift overthrow of Saddam’s regime, the invasion unleashed a cascade of unintended consequences that continue to haunt Iraq today. The absence of WMDs, later confirmed, raised questions about the legitimacy of the war, while the power vacuum left in its wake fueled sectarian violence, insurgencies, and the rise of extremist groups like the Islamic State (IS). The invasion’s aftermath has been marked by widespread destruction, displacement, and a profound sense of loss among Iraqis. Cities like Mosul, once vibrant cultural hubs, remain scarred by years of conflict. The Christian community, which once thrived in Iraq, has dwindled significantly, with many fleeing persecution. Despite the fall of IS, the road to recovery remains fraught with challenges, as Iraqis grapple with the enduring legacy of a war that promised liberation but delivered devastation.
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Australia vies for Pacific influence with new security deal
In a strategic move to bolster its presence in the Pacific region, Australia has inked a comprehensive security agreement with Vanuatu, a small island nation in Oceania. This development comes amidst growing geopolitical competition with China, which has been actively seeking to expand its influence in the region. The newly signed pact encompasses a wide range of areas including humanitarian aid, disaster response, law enforcement, cyber security, defense, border security, and maritime safety. Although the full details of the agreement remain undisclosed, Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong emphasized the importance of sovereign decisions in enhancing regional security during a press conference in Port Vila, Vanuatu’s capital. Wong proudly declared Australia as Vanuatu’s principal security partner of choice. This agreement follows China’s recent security deal with the Solomon Islands, which has sparked concerns over potential military escalation in the South Pacific. China’s broader attempt to secure a sweeping regional agreement with ten Pacific nations, covering various sectors from security to fisheries, was met with resistance. Australia has been actively countering China’s influence through a series of diplomatic missions across the Pacific. Wong highlighted that the level of engagement and cooperation with Australia is a matter of individual choice for each Pacific nation. During her visit, Wong also participated in the handover of a new wharf and a police boat, both funded under Australia’s Pacific Maritime Security Program. The delegation’s next stops include Palau and Micronesia, with Palau being one of the few nations maintaining diplomatic ties with Taiwan rather than China. Palau’s President Surangel Whipps Jr. acknowledged the significant Chinese investment in his country but reiterated Palau’s stance of maintaining friendly relations with all nations without external pressure. Whipps also praised Australia’s commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 43% by 2030, though he urged for a more ambitious target of 50%. Climate change remains a critical issue for many Pacific nations, with rising sea levels and severe weather posing existential threats to low-lying islands.
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Horse trainer, wheelchair athlete to attend royal funeral
CANBERRA, Australia — In a significant gesture of inclusivity, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese revealed on Tuesday that his official delegation to Queen Elizabeth II’s funeral will feature a diverse group of individuals, including racehorse trainer Chris Waller and wheelchair tennis champion Dylan Alcott. These two prominent figures are part of a contingent of 10 ‘everyday Australians’ selected to represent the nation at the state funeral scheduled for Monday at Westminster Abbey in London. Albanese emphasized that the inclusion of these citizens was a specific request from the British royal family, aiming to honor individuals who have made substantial contributions to their local communities.
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Iranian press review: Venezuela part of ‘Axis of Resistance’, says Maduro
Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro has positioned his nation as a key member of the international ‘Axis of Resistance’ during his official visit to Tehran, calling for a unified front against United States and Israeli influence worldwide. The Iranian-coined term traditionally describes Shia forces opposing American and Israeli interests in the Middle East, but Maduro expanded its scope to encompass global anti-colonial movements.
Addressing audiences in the Iranian capital, Maduro declared that resistance movements now operate across Western Asia, Africa, Latin America, and the Caribbean. He framed this alliance as a struggle against neoliberalism, racism, and multiple forms of colonialism—including political, economic, cultural, and cyber domains. The Venezuelan leader emphasized the movement’s goal of decolonizing minds and resisting imperial hegemony.
The visit yielded significant bilateral agreements, including a 20-year cooperation roadmap between Iran and Venezuela. Maduro recalled previous security collaboration, revealing that Iranian experts had assisted in repairing Venezuela’s electricity infrastructure following cyber-attacks, a effort coordinated after his meeting with the late IRGC commander Qassem Soleimani.
Meanwhile, Iran continues to expand its international partnerships amid ongoing sanctions. Russian-Iranian relations have deepened since the Ukraine conflict began, with plans for a joint trade center (Nova-Pars) and enhanced cooperation in energy, manufacturing, and oil/gas equipment. A new Caspian Sea transportation corridor will connect Russia to the Persian Gulf, complemented by unprecedented shipbuilding knowledge transfers and parts manufacturing agreements.
Domestically, Iran faces mounting challenges. President Ebrahim Raisi’s directive to manufacture 72-seat aircraft—reportedly for religious symbolism—has drawn widespread public mockery given Iran’s aging fleet and aviation safety record. Critics highlight the administration’s previous unfulfilled promises regarding inflation control and COVID-19 vaccines.
Additionally, Iran’s healthcare system confronts a severe physician shortage despite medical school graduations. Approximately 20,000 trained doctors have abandoned clinical practice for higher-paying sectors including real estate, cryptocurrency trading, and beauty clinics, exacerbating the nation’s medical care crisis.