ISLAMIC SCHOLAR IN GAZA ISSUES FATWA CONDEMNING OCTOBER 7 ATTACK

WORLD NEWS

9th NOVEMBER 2024

By Oyenike

ISLAMIC SCHOLAR IN GAZA ISSUES FATWA CONDEMNING OCTOBER 7 ATTACK

The leading Islamic scholar in Gaza, Professor Dr. Salman al-Dayah, has issued a rare and impactful fatwa denouncing Hamas’s attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, which ignited a severe conflict in the region. As a former dean at the Islamic University of Gaza, his opinions hold considerable influence among the predominantly Sunni Muslim population of two million.

A fatwa is an advisory Islamic ruling from a respected authority, often grounded in the Quran or the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad. Dr. Dayah’s six-page fatwa criticises Hamas for what he describes as a breach of Islamic principles related to jihad, which refers to both personal and military struggles in Islam.

He emphasises that jihad should be avoided if its fundamental conditions are not fulfilled, to prevent the loss of life. This statement challenges Hamas, which frequently uses religious justifications for its actions against Israel to rally support from various Muslim communities.

The October 7 assault led to a significant loss of life, with around 1,200 fatalities and over 250 hostages taken. In retaliation, Israel initiated a military operation against Hamas, resulting in over 43,400 deaths in Gaza, according to the health ministry. Dr. Dayah contends that the extensive civilian deaths and destruction in Gaza highlight the dire consequences of the attack.

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NEW FLOODS IN SPAIN CARRY OFF MULTIPLE VEHICLES CLOSE TO GIRONA

Recent flooding has struck Girona in northeastern Spain, resulting in around 30 vehicles being swept away in the town of Cadaqués, as reported by Spanish media. Footage shared by a local journalist depicted a deluge of water rushing through the streets, with cars obstructing a bridge early Friday morning. Fortunately, no injuries were reported from this latest flooding incident.

Last week, over 200 fatalities occurred, primarily in the Valencia region, marking one of the most severe flood events in Europe this century. This disaster has sparked significant outrage towards authorities for their delayed emergency alerts.

In Cadaqués, the flooding early Friday caused a pile-up of approximately 30 cars beneath a bridge, according to Catalonia’s fire service. Emergency responders confirmed that no individuals were injured or trapped during the event.

The region is bracing for more severe weather, with Catalonia’s meteorological service issuing a rain warning from Friday evening until Saturday afternoon for Alt Empordà, where Cadaqués is situated.

Recent flooding has struck Girona in northeastern Spain, resulting in around 30 vehicles being swept away

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COMPANY SECURES £141M DEAL TO TRAIN GERMAN AVIATORS IN DORSET

A helicopter training firm based in the UK has secured £141 million (€170 million) to train pilots from the German Navy. HeliOperations will prepare these naval pilots for operating the NH90 Sea Lion and Sea Tiger helicopters at its facility on the Isle of Portland, Dorset. The German Ministry of Defence awarded the seven-year contract.

Portland’s Mayor, Sheila Miles, described the funding as a “welcome investment” for the region, highlighting its “proud history of helicopter operations.” The area served as a Royal Navy air station from 1917 until 1999, with HeliOperations taking over the site in 2017.

Miles congratulated the training team, noting that this contract is excellent news for both HeliOps and the Isle of Portland, bringing much-needed investment after a perceived decline in the island’s fortunes. She emphasised that helicopters are integral to the local culture, and this investment will help maintain that connection.

Training is set to begin immediately, alongside the construction of necessary infrastructure at the Portland base. Steve Gladston, CEO of HeliOperations, stated that this contract demonstrates the German MOD’s trust in their training capabilities and solidifies their status as a top provider of aviation training services. He expressed pride in their reputation for excellence and commitment to supporting the German Navy’s evolving needs.

HeliOperation a training firm based UK has secured £141 million (€170 million) to train pilots from the German Navy

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IRISH GENERAL ELECTION TO BE ANNOUNCED OFFICIALLY

The Irish Prime Minister is anticipated to request Irish President Michael D. Higgins to dissolve the current Dáil (the lower house of the Irish parliament). According to Irish law, once the Dáil is dissolved, an election must occur within 30 days. Earlier this week, Simon Harris expressed a preference for the general election to take place on 29 November.

Harris, the leader of Fine Gael, heads a coalition government with Fianna Fáil and the Green Party. Currently attending a summit in Hungary, he will return to Dublin on Friday afternoon to make a statement at government buildings. Following this, the Taoiseach will visit the president’s residence, Áras an Uachtaráin, to formally request the dissolution of the Dáil.

On Thursday, members of the 33rd Dáil convened for the last time before the anticipated snap election. This election will see an increase in both the number of TDs (Members of Parliament) running for election and the constituencies, following a review conducted in 2023. There are now 43 Dáil constituencies, up from 39 in 2020, each electing between three and five TDs.

In total, 174 TDs will be elected, with a majority government requiring 88 TDs. Discussing the upcoming election, Fianna Fáil leader Micheál Martin stated that his party aims to lead the next government. He acknowledged the challenges posed by a fragmented political landscape with multiple parties and independents running, emphasising the need to secure the largest number of seats before determining the next steps.

The Irish Prime Minister is anticipated to request Irish President Michael D. Higgins to dissolve the current Dáil

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NISSAN TO DISMISS THOUSANDS OF EMPLOYEES AS SALES DECLINE

Nissan announced its plans to lay off thousands of employees as it reduces global production in response to declining sales in China and the US. The Japanese automaker will eliminate 9,000 jobs worldwide as part of a cost-saving strategy that involves cutting production by 20%. The company has not disclosed the specific locations of the layoffs.

Nissan employs over 6,000 workers at its Sunderland plant in North East England and has revised its operating profit forecast for 2024 down by 70%, marking the second reduction this year. CEO Makoto Uchida stated these changes do not indicate a reduction in company size but rather a restructuring for improved efficiency.

Uchida’s salary will be halved, and other senior executives will also face pay cuts. Following the announcement, Nissan’s shares fell by more than 6% in Tokyo. Increased competition in China has resulted in price declines, challenging foreign manufacturers like Nissan to compete against local companies.

The firm is also facing difficulties in the US market due to inflation and high interest rates affecting new vehicle sales. This decreased demand has forced automakers to lower prices, impacting their profitability. Last November, Nissan and its partners revealed a £2bn plan to develop new initiatives.

Nissan announced its plans to lay off thousands of employees as it reduces global production in response to declining sales in China and the US

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