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Rwanda Closes Over 4,000 Churches in Safety Crackdown

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KIGALI, Rwanda – Rwandan authorities have closed more than 4,000 churches and mosques over the past month for failing to comply with health and safety regulations. The closures primarily affect small Pentecostal churches and some mosques, including those operating in caves or near rivers.

Minister of Local Government Jean Claude Musabyimana told state media, “This is not being done to prevent people from praying but to ensure the safety and tranquillity of worshipers.”

The crackdown follows a 2018 law regulating places of worship, which requires safe and organized operation, proper soundproofing, restriction on loud public address systems, and theological training for preachers.

Usta Kayitesi, chief of the Rwanda Governance Board (RGB), stated, “The government has taken a stance against proliferation in the houses of worship. We still see cases of dilapidated [structures] and unhygienic conditions.”

Local urban authorities, in partnership with the RGB, are carrying out the ongoing operation. Officials report that 4,223 places of worship have been closed so far, with 427 of those located in caves.

The government maintains that churches have had five years to comply with the regulations. Some closed churches operated in tents, which authorities say exposed worshippers to risks.

Rwanda, a predominantly Christian country, has seen a rapid growth of Pentecostal churches in recent years, mirroring trends across Africa. While some of these churches attract thousands of worshippers, others are small structures built without proper planning permission.

The 2018 law initially resulted in the closure of about 700 churches. At that time, President Paul Kagame, who recently won a fourth term in office, stated that Rwanda did not need numerous houses of worship, suggesting that such a high number was more suitable for more developed economies.

This latest crackdown represents the most significant enforcement of the law since its implementation five years ago.

bbc.com

Americans Urged to Leave Lebanon Amid Fears of Escalating Conflict Between Israel and Hezbollah

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American citizens in Lebanon have been urged to leave the country immediately due to escalating fears of an all-out war between Israel and Hezbollah. This advisory comes as tensions in the Middle East continue to rise, with increasing concerns about safety and security in the region.

The U.S. Embassy in Beirut has issued a statement urging Americans to depart Lebanon as soon as possible, emphasizing the urgency of the situation. The embassy warns that those who delay their departure risk becoming trapped in a potential warzone. The advisory highlights that while some flights have been suspended or canceled, commercial transportation options to leave Lebanon remain available.

“We encourage those who wish to depart Lebanon to book any ticket available to them, even if that flight does not depart immediately or does not follow their first-choice route,” the statement reads.

For American citizens facing financial difficulties, particularly senior citizens lacking funds for travel, the embassy suggests contacting them for assistance via repatriation loans.

Foreign Secretary David Lammy has similarly warned British citizens about the risks of remaining in Lebanon, advising them to leave promptly to avoid being caught in a conflict zone. The U.K. government has also issued guidelines for evacuation and emergency preparedness.

The U.S. Embassy advises Americans who choose not to leave Lebanon to prepare contingency plans for emergency situations. Citizens are encouraged to be ready to shelter in place for extended periods if necessary.

The statement also clarifies that U.S. military-assisted evacuations from a foreign country are rare. U.S. citizens should not rely on the U.S. government for assisted departure or evacuation in a crisis. “In the case of an evacuation, you may not be able to leave with your extended family, cannot take pets, and will be expected to reimburse the U.S. government for your transportation to a safe location,” the embassy cautions.

The advisory comes amid fears of imminent conflict, with reports suggesting that Iran may be plotting an attack on Israel. This follows the assassination of a senior Hamas leader in Tehran and recent deadly strikes by Hezbollah in Beirut. These developments have raised alarm over a potential escalation into a broader conflict involving multiple actors in the region.

Given the volatile situation, the U.S. government is taking a proactive stance to ensure the safety of its citizens. The embassy’s advisory is part of a broader strategy to minimize risks associated with potential military engagements and to safeguard American nationals in the region.

As tensions between Israel and Hezbollah continue to simmer, the U.S. and other Western governments are closely monitoring the situation, urging citizens to heed travel advisories and prioritize their safety.

Source: the-sun.com

Israel Targeted by 50 Rockets from Southern Lebanon as Tensions Escalate with Hezbollah

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Approximately 50 rockets were fired towards Israel from southern Lebanon, according to Israeli media reports. The rockets targeted Israel’s Upper Galilee region, triggering the activation of the Iron Dome defense system, which intercepted and destroyed several incoming missiles.

In a statement, Hezbollah claimed responsibility for the attack, stating: “In support of our steadfast Palestinian people in the Gaza Strip and in support of their valiant and honorable resistance.” Hezbollah emphasized that the attacks were in response to Israeli strikes on southern Lebanese villages, particularly targeting Kafr Kila and Deir Siryan, and injuring civilians.

The statement further noted, “The Islamic Resistance included the new settlement of Beit Hillel in its fire schedule and bombarded it for the first time with dozens of Katyusha rockets.”

As of now, Israel has not officially commented on the incident.

The rocket attack comes amid increasing tensions between Israel and Hezbollah. Israel’s foreign minister recently warned of an “all-out war” with Hezbollah after accusing the group of a rocket attack on the Golan Heights.

The attack follows a missile strike in the Israel-occupied region on Saturday evening, which resulted in the deaths of 12 young people, including children.

The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) have blamed Iran-backed Hezbollah, which operates out of southern Lebanon, for the attacks. Hezbollah, a key supporter of militant group Hamas, has intensified its offensive since the Gaza Strip conflict erupted in October last year.

In response to the escalating situation, the 2nd Royal Marines were placed on standby on August 2nd to rescue British citizens stranded in the region as tensions threaten to reach a boiling point.

The elite British troops have been dispatched to Cyprus, preparing for a “non-combatant evacuation” mission in the Middle East as the threat of an all-out conflict looms.

Real Madrid vs Barcelona Friendly Suspended Due to Severe Weather at MetLife Stadium

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The pre-season El Clasico between Real Madrid and Barcelona at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey has been suspended due to severe weather conditions. The match was halted after 13 minutes of play when officials detected a threat of lightning in the area.

Key updates:

– Match suspended at the 13-minute mark due to lightning threat

– Fans instructed to seek shelter indoors

– Players returned to their respective dressing rooms

– No restart time announced as of the latest update

– Heavy rain continues to fall at the stadium

Prior to the suspension, the match had seen some early action:

– Barcelona dominated possession in the opening minutes

– Real Madrid’s Endrick showed promise with an attacking run

– Referee denied a free-kick appeal from Barcelona’s Bernal following a challenge from Endrick

This high-profile friendly marks both teams’ second pre-season match. Real Madrid entered the game following a 1-0 loss to AC Milan, while Barcelona drew 2-2 with Manchester City in their previous outing, winning the subsequent penalty shootout 4-1.

Notable absences include Kylian Mbappe for Real Madrid, who is on break following Euro 2024. Barcelona’s new signings Raphinha, Ilkay Gundogan, and Jules Kounde were expected to feature at some point in the match.

As the severe weather persists, officials continue to monitor the situation. The resumption of play remains uncertain, with both teams and fans awaiting further updates.

Business and Cars Set on Fire as Anti-Immigration Violence Erupts in Belfast

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A business was set on fire in Belfast on Saturday night as fresh disorder erupted in the city following anti-immigration protests.

The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) maintained a presence in the Donegall Road area in the south of the city, where several cars and a number of bins were also set alight.

During the violence earlier in the day, businesses were attacked after an anti-immigration protest moved through the city.

Giving an update on Saturday night, a PSNI spokesperson said, “Police are dealing with ongoing disorder in the Donegall Road area of south Belfast tonight. This disorder has resulted in a business premises being set on fire. The public should avoid the Donegall Road and Sandy Row areas.”

Earlier in the day, police mounted a significant security operation during a lengthy confrontation between anti-Islamic protesters and those taking part in an anti-racist rally at Belfast City Hall, during which fireworks and other missiles were thrown.

People taking part in the anti-Islam demonstration then traveled towards the university area of the city, where there were clashes with residents of the Lower Ormeau area.

A business was attacked in the Botanic area of the city, and windows were smashed at a hotel. 

Another Israeli Airstrike Kills 15 Palestinians in Gaza School Amid Rising Regional Tensions

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An Israeli airstrike on a school sheltering displaced persons in Gaza City killed at least 15 Palestinians on Saturday, according to Hamas. This attack followed two strikes in the occupied West Bank that killed nine militants, including a local Hamas commander.

The Israeli military stated that the first West Bank airstrike targeted a militant cell allegedly en route to carry out an attack near Tulkarm. Hamas confirmed one of those killed was a commander of its Tulkarm brigades, while Islamic Jihad claimed the other four men as its fighters. A second airstrike in the area targeted another group of militants who had reportedly fired on troops.

In Gaza, the Israeli military claimed the targeted school was being used as a Hamas command center, to hide militants, and manufacture weapons. Hamas has consistently denied such accusations regarding civilian facilities.

These strikes occur amid escalating tensions between Israel and Iran, as well as Lebanon’s Hezbollah group, raising fears of a wider Middle East conflict. Diplomatic efforts by the U.S. and international partners continue to prevent further regional escalation.

Hamas announced it has begun a “broad consultation process” to choose a new leader following the assassination of Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran. Iran and Hamas have blamed Israel for the killing and vowed retaliation, while Israel has neither claimed nor denied responsibility.

The Gaza conflict, now approaching its 11th month, has resulted in at least 39,550 Palestinian deaths, according to Gaza health officials. The offensive was triggered by a Hamas-led attack on southern Israel on October 7, which killed 1,200 people and saw 250 abducted, according to Israeli tallies.

Ceasefire negotiations remain challenging, with both Hamas and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office accusing each other of impeding progress. A high-level Israeli delegation briefly visited Cairo on Saturday in an attempt to resume talks.

International diplomatic efforts continue, with U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken engaging with French and British counterparts on the need for a ceasefire and hostage release deal. Egypt’s foreign minister stressed to Iran’s acting foreign minister the “unprecedented, very dangerous” nature of recent developments in the region.

Renewed Rioting Sweeps Across British Cities Following Southport Child Murders

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In the wake of the tragic murder of three young girls in Southport, northwest England, violent riots have swept through several British cities, marking the most widespread civil unrest in the country for 13 years. The riots, which began on Saturday, have resulted in numerous injuries and significant property damage.

The unrest has been fueled by misinformation spreading rapidly on social media, suggesting that the suspect in Monday’s fatal knife attack at a children’s dance class in Southport was a radical Muslim immigrant. The suspect, 17-year-old Asel Rudakuabea, was born in Britain. Despite this, protests by anti-immigration and anti-Muslim demonstrators have persisted, escalating into violence, arson, and looting.

Major cities including Liverpool, Bristol, Hull, and Belfast have been sites of intense disorder. These cities, located in different regions of the UK, have witnessed scuffles and violence as anti-immigration protesters clashed with groups opposing racism. The protests have drawn large crowds, with many young men chanting slogans and engaging in physical altercations.

In Liverpool, where tensions were particularly high, Merseyside Police reported that more than 750 protesters clashed with an equal number of rival demonstrators. During the conflict, several police officers sustained injuries while trying to separate the groups. Two officers were hospitalized with suspected fractures after being attacked.

The riots resulted in significant damage to businesses and infrastructure. In Liverpool, multiple shops were vandalized and looted, contributing to the chaos. Meanwhile, in Bristol, riot police were deployed in response to similar violence between anti-immigration groups and their opponents. TV footage captured the clashes as police in riot gear struggled to restore order.

Merseyside Police have urged the public to remain calm and avoid spreading unverified information that could exacerbate tensions. They emphasized the importance of relying on official sources for updates regarding the ongoing investigation into the Southport attack.

Authorities are currently assessing the damage caused by the riots, which have affected at least one in three businesses in the affected areas. The government has condemned the violence and urged citizens to unite in the face of tragedy, rather than succumb to division and fear.

The riots have underscored the volatility of public sentiment and the potential for misinformation to ignite unrest. As the situation develops, community leaders and officials are calling for dialogue and understanding to prevent further violence and heal the divisions exacerbated by these events.

Al Qaeda Affiliate in Niger Claims Kidnapping of Two Russian Nationals

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An Al Qaeda-affiliated group in West Africa’s Sahel region has claimed responsibility for the abduction of two Russian nationals in Niger, according to a video released by the group on Friday. This development has heightened concerns about the security situation in the region, which is increasingly plagued by Islamist insurgencies.

The video, released by Jama’a Nusrat ul-Islam wa al-Muslimin (JNIM), features statements from the two captives who appear on camera. The men claim they were working for a Russian company in southwest Niger when they were taken hostage.

Speaking in Russian-accented English, the captives identified themselves as Russian citizens. They reported being captured in Mbanga, a location approximately 60 km (40 miles) west of Niger’s capital, Niamey. However, the video does not specify when the abduction occurred.

One of the captives, identifying himself as Yuri, stated he was a geologist, while the other, named Greg, mentioned he had arrived in Niger just a month prior.

Details about where and when the video was filmed remain unclear. The captives are shown in front of a backdrop made of traditional West African cloth. The video notably lacks any ransom demands, adding to the mystery surrounding the kidnapping.

Russia’s foreign ministry has yet to respond to requests for comment on the situation.

A security source in Niger, speaking anonymously, indicated that the Russians were abducted about a week ago while they were visiting local gold mines.

Mbanga is located in the gold-rich Tillaberi region, an area known for the presence of Islamist militants affiliated with both Al Qaeda and the Islamic State. These groups have established significant control over parts of Niger, as well as neighboring Mali and Burkina Faso, creating a challenging security environment.

Since a military coup last year, Niger’s junta has been distancing itself from Western influences while forging closer military and economic ties with Russia. This shift mirrors similar moves by military leaders in Mali and Burkina Faso, who have sought Russian support amidst ongoing conflicts in the region.

The kidnapping of Russian citizens highlights the increasing risks faced by foreign nationals working in Niger and underscores the complex geopolitical dynamics at play in the Sahel region.

Reuters

Fresh Bangladesh Unrest: Protests Turn Violent as Calls for Government Resignation Grow

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Thousands of protesters gathered peacefully in Bangladesh’s capital, Dhaka, on Saturday, demanding justice for over 200 students and others killed during protests last month. The demonstrations, which began as a student movement against a government job quota system, have now expanded to include broader segments of society calling for Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s resignation.

While the Dhaka protest remained peaceful, violence erupted in other parts of the country. In Cumilla, eastern Bangladesh, the Prothom Alo newspaper reported that at least seven protesters were hit by bullets when pro-ruling party groups allegedly opened fire on them. At least 30 protesters were reportedly injured in the incident, though a local ruling party leader denied these allegations.

The ongoing unrest stems from student protests that began last month demanding changes to the government job quota system. The situation escalated on July 15 when students at Dhaka University clashed with police and ruling party activists. Since then, over 200 people have died, and thousands have been injured. The government’s response, including closing educational institutions, blocking internet access, and imposing a shoot-on-sight curfew, has further inflamed tensions.

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina offered to talk with student leaders, but protest coordinator Nahid Islam rejected the offer, stating on Facebook that “One cannot ask a killer government for justice or sit for talks with them.” The protesters have now condensed their demands to a single point: the resignation of Hasina and her administration.

In response to the growing unrest, Bangladesh’s military chief, Gen. Waker-Uz-Zaman, has directed army officers to safeguard public safety and secure key state installations. The ruling Awami League party has called on its supporters to demonstrate across the country on Sunday, potentially setting the stage for further confrontations.

The opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party and the banned Jamaat-e-Islami party have been accused by the government of instigating violence, allegations both parties deny. Opposition leader Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has expressed continued support for the protesters.

AP

Brazil Eliminates Host France in Olympic Women’s Soccer Quarterfinal | Paris 2024

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Brazil secured a dramatic 1-0 victory over host nation France in the women’s soccer quarterfinals at the Paris 2024 Olympics, advancing to the semifinals after an extraordinary match that included 19 minutes of stoppage time. The game, played at Stade La Beaujoire, ended in jubilation for Brazil and heartbreak for the French team.

Gabi Portilho scored the decisive goal in the 82nd minute, receiving an assist from Adriana and calmly slotting the ball into the bottom corner past the French goalkeeper. This was Brazil’s first shot on target of the night, a testament to the efficiency of their counter-attacking strategy.

The match was marked by intense physicality and controversy, particularly in the extended stoppage time. Brazilian players were accused of time-wasting tactics, resulting in numerous yellow cards and heated confrontations with the referee. The French team, despite dominating possession, struggled to create clear-cut chances in the closing stages.

The unprecedented 16 minutes of added time, which eventually stretched to 19, created a frenetic and tense atmosphere. Both teams surrounded the referee multiple times, and fast tackles flew in as France desperately sought an equalizer.

With this victory, Brazil’s campaign continues, ensuring that legendary player Marta’s career will extend at least one more match. The Brazilian team will face Spain in the semifinals, while France’s players were left devastated on the pitch, their dreams of Olympic glory on home soil shattered.

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