Social Reform Society Honors Its Distinguished Member, Muhammad Hamad Al-Ali

Al-Ali Won First Place in the 2024 Kuwait International Quran Memorization and Recitation Competition

On Tuesday, December 24, 2024, the Social Reform Society held an honoring ceremony for Sheikh Muhammad Hamad Al-Ali, the Executive Director of the Quranic Secretariat at the society, on the occasion of his winning first place (Ten Readings category) in the 13th session of the Kuwait International Quran Memorization and Recitation Competition of 2024.

The ceremony, held at the Diwan of Uncle Abdullah Al-Ali Al-Mutawa, witnessed a large attendance of official figures, ambassadors, scholars, preachers, as well as charity workers, intellectuals, and media personnel.

In his statement, Dr. Khaled Madkour Al-Madkour, the Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Social Reform Society, said: “We gather to celebrate the Book of Allah and the preservers of the Quran.” He added that since its establishment, the Social Reform Society's fundamental principle has been to make the Quran its foundation.

Dr. Al-Mathkour continued: “We are pleased to welcome the esteemed representatives of the Ministry of Social Affairs, the honorable ambassadors or their deputies, and all the present guests in this blessed gathering. We ask Allah to reward everyone for their presence and participation.”

He pointed out the honor by saying: “Today we celebrate one of our distinguished sons, one of the sons of the Social Reform Society, Sheikh Muhammad Hamad Al-Ali, for winning the first prize in the international Quran memorization competition held under the patronage of His Highness the Amir of the country, Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, may Allah protect him.”

He continued: “We celebrate him and others like him among the youth who were raised in this blessed society and memorized the Holy Quran, described by Allah in His saying: ‘Indeed, this Quran guides to that which is most suitable’ (Al-Isra: 9), emphasizing that the Quran is the best guidance in a person's life, whether in himself, his family, his society, or in all his affairs. A Quran memorizer is not merely someone who memorizes the verses but someone who makes them a way of life and acts upon them in all aspects.”

Dr. Al-Mathkour concluded: “We also celebrate another achievement, which is the Golden Shield awarded to the Social Reform Society in the General Secretariat of Awqaf Competition, held under the patronage of His Highness the Amir.”

In his speech, Salmi Al-Mutairi, representative of the Ministry of Social Affairs, said: “We gather today on this blessed occasion to celebrate a distinguished personality and a great achievement that raises our heads and fills our hearts with joy. Today, we honor Sheikh Muhammad Al-Ali, who honored us by winning first place in the Kuwait International Quran Memorization Award.”

He affirmed that this achievement reflects the value of effort and perseverance in memorizing the Holy Quran, which is a light that illuminates hearts and a glory nations take pride in. Memorizing the Holy Quran is a great honor, unmatched by any other honor, and a blessing from Allah bestowed only on those He loves and chooses. Sheikh Muhammad Al-Ali is a model to be emulated, as he excelled and distinguished himself in memorizing the Quran, crowning this distinction by winning first place in one of the most prestigious international competitions.

Al-Mutairi added that this achievement is not only a pride for Sheikh Muhammad but for all of us; his family, his community, and the entire Muslim Ummah. It is a reminder of the importance of adhering to the Book of Allah, learning and teaching it, memorizing and reflecting upon it, to achieve goodness and happiness in this world and the hereafter.

Waqf Fund for the Quran

For his part, Sheikh Yahya Suleiman Al-Aqili, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the International Mercy Association, congratulated Sheikh Muhammad Al-Ali, saying: “We congratulate Sheikh Muhammad Al-Ali on achieving this honorable accomplishment in the prestigious competition that Kuwait is proud of annually. We also congratulate the Social Reform Society on winning the Golden Shield in this prestigious competition.”

He added: “There is no doubt that this crowning is a blessed fruit and the realization of one of the blessed Social Reform Society's goals of raising the youth to memorize the Holy Quran.” He continued: “It is an honor for us at the Mercy Association to participate in this honor and celebrate Sheikh Muhammad Al-Ali, as Allah Almighty said: ‘And indeed, it is a remembrance for you and your people, and you will be questioned’ (Az-Zukhruf: 44).”

Al-Aqili pointed out that Sheikh Muhammad Al-Ali is a source of pride and honor for his parents, family, descendants, the Social Reform Society, the people of Kuwait, and the entire Muslim Ummah. He affirmed that the Quran is an honor for those who memorize, reflect upon, act upon, and follow it as a way of life. Allah raises some people by this Book and brings others low by it. Whoever honors a Quran memorizer gains a great honor.

He added: “We are honored today to celebrate Sheikh Muhammad Al-Ali for this blessed achievement, remembering Allah’s saying: ‘[This is] a blessed Book which We have revealed to you, that they might reflect upon its verses and that those of understanding would be reminded’ (Sad: 29). The true blessing is in spreading goodness and benefit to everyone who recites this Book, memorizes it, teaches it, or draws near to it in their behavior and life. This honor is a message to all of us about the necessity of drawing closer to the Quran and making it a way of life and a constitution for this blessed country, Kuwait, and for the Muslim Ummah.”

In conclusion, Al-Aqili announced that the Golden Shield of the International Mercy Association is a share in the Quranic Waqf fund, which we consider the best gift we offer to the honorable memorizer Sheikh Muhammad Al-Ali, who honored us all with this achievement.

Dr. Hamad Al-Mazroui, Head of the Dawah and Sharia Awareness Sector at the Social Reform Society, said: “Responding to the Prophet's saying: ‘Indeed, from the reverence of Allah is to honor the carrier of the Quran,’ and Allah's saying: ‘That [is so]. And whoever honors the symbols of Allah - indeed, it is from the piety of hearts’ (Al-Hajj: 32), we celebrate today the carrier of the Holy Book, Sheikh Muhammad Al-Ali, who is a model to be emulated.”

He added that Sheikh Muhammad is among the best of people, based on the Prophet's saying: ‘The best of you are those who learn the Quran and teach it.’ He combined learning and teaching to be a role model in spreading the sciences of the Quran. The Dawah Sector honors Sheikh Muhammad Al-Ali by presenting a commemorative shield and a Quran distinguished by an innovative idea. This Quran does not contain written verses; instead, it is designed for Sheikh Muhammad to inscribe the verses himself in his beautiful handwriting.

Al-Mazroui explained: “As Allah preserved the Quran in Sheikh Muhammad’s heart, we seek for this preservation to be manifested in writing. Sheikh Muhammad Al-Ali will write this Book, having memorized it by heart.”

 Namaa Charity Extends a Helping Hand to Syrian Refugees Facing Severe Winter

Amid harsh winter conditions that exacerbate the suffering of Syrian refugees, Namaa Charity, in collaboration with the Social Reform Society, concluded a comprehensive relief program targeting 4,880 beneficiaries to alleviate their hardships and strengthen their resilience against the biting cold.

The campaign, attended by Khalid Mubarak Al-Shammari, Director of the Relief Department, was initiated in response to the urgent need for food, warmth, and winter clothing, highlighting Namaa Charity’s commitment to supporting refugees in the most challenging circumstances.

Al-Shammari explained that the campaign included distributing various winter aid. He stated, "We ensured the campaign addressed multiple needs, distributing food baskets to the most vulnerable families, and providing heating materials including firewood and charcoal to help them cope with the severe cold. We also launched a clothing program for orphans, supplying new winter clothes for children, which added joy and warmth to their hearts. Additionally, we distributed vouchers to needy families so they could buy what suited their needs with dignity."

Al-Shammari emphasized that this campaign is not merely about distributing aid; it represents a humanitarian message reflecting the values of generosity that characterize Namaa Charity and the State of Kuwait. He clarified that our goal is not only to meet urgent needs but also to enhance the dignity of refugees and ensure their resilience in facing the harsh winter challenges. This campaign is part of the "Be A Help to Them" initiative launched by Namaa Charity to assist those in need in the most affected countries during the winter season.

He pointed out that the humanitarian work carried out by Namaa Charity stems from a religious and ethical obligation to support refugees, saying, "The positive feedback we received from the beneficiaries was our greatest motivation to continue our journey. Mothers expressed their gratitude for the clothes that brought warmth to their children's hearts, while fathers found in the coal and firewood a lifeline during the harsh winter nights."

Al-Shammari praised Kuwait's leading role in charitable and humanitarian work, noting that this campaign is just one link in a series of sustainable projects implemented by Namaa Charity to relieve the suffering of refugees. He stated that Kuwait will continue to be a beacon of humanitarian work globally, and we are committed to providing essential assistance to everyone in need. Every contribution, no matter how small, makes a significant difference in the lives of those facing the hardships of winter.

Through this campaign, Namaa Charity reaffirms its commitment to continued humanitarian work and calls on everyone to contribute to these relief efforts, which embody the spirit of generosity and human solidarity.

“Balad Al-Khair” Launches “Water Distribution Project” in Collaboration with the General Secretariat for Endowments

The Blessed Country Association has launched the "Water Distribution Project," which aims to provide clean water in many areas within the State of Kuwait, in collaboration with the General Secretariat for Endowments.

In recent times, there has been cooperation between the association and the General Secretariat for Endowments to implement several charitable projects within the State of Kuwait.

Osman Al-Thuwaini, the Director of the Blessed Country Association, confirmed that the "Water Distribution Project" is one form of fruitful cooperation with the General Secretariat for Endowments, which has led to the provision of 442,500 bottles of water that were distributed in various areas across Kuwait, benefiting poor workers, mosque-goers, hospitals, and others.

He added that the "Water Distribution Project" provided 22,125 water boxes at a total cost of 9,956 KWD.

Al-Thuwaini pointed out that the Blessed Country Association has contracted with Al-Rumaih General Trading and Contracting Company (Ain Water), and a delegation representing the General Secretariat for Endowments visited the water production factory. The implementation of the water distribution plan in areas affiliated with the Ministry of Interior, the Ministry of Awqaf, the Municipality of Kuwait, public places, and new residential and labor areas under construction has already begun.

The Director of the Blessed Country Association emphasized that thousands of beneficiaries have received clean water, especially in areas where water is not readily available nearby.

Al-Thuwaini continued that water distribution projects are among the most important charitable projects that the association seeks to implement due to the pressing need of people for water, which they cannot do without at any time. Additionally, providing water is one of the best charitable deeds and the best form of almsgiving. Hence, the Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, said: "The best charity is giving water to drink" (Narrated by Ahmad, Abu Dawood, Al-Nasa'i, and Ibn Majah).

The Director of the Blessed Country Association concluded by affirming that the coming period will witness further efforts in light of everyone's commitment to extend a helping hand to all those in need, as well as to exert more efforts to improve the lives of beneficiaries in Kuwait.

 "Balad Al-Khair" announces the availability of food supplies for 1,600 individuals through the "Ishiyat Bank" project

Continuing its strategy to provide assistance to underprivileged and needy families in the State of Kuwait, the Balad Al-Khair Society announced the implementation of the "Ishiyat Bank" project to offer food provisions to hundreds of individuals from the most in-need categories.

The project comes in collaboration with the General Secretariat of Awqaf and aims to provide prepaid cards to underprivileged families to facilitate their purchasing of food supplies.

Othman Al-Thuwaini, Director of Balad Al-Khair Society, confirmed that the collaboration with the General Secretariat of Awqaf ensured the launch of several important charitable projects that aim to meet the needs of citizens from orphan families and those experiencing difficult living conditions. Among these projects, the Ishiyat Bank project stands out for providing food.

He noted that many underprivileged families are currently living in very difficult conditions due to financial hardships, and there are also families with patients, the elderly, orphans in education, and others, all of whom need urgent support to meet their basic needs.

Al-Thuwaini continued that Balad Al-Khair Society recognizes the suffering of these underprivileged families, which is why the fruitful cooperation with the Awqaf Secretariat is aimed at providing prepaid cards that families can use to purchase food and drink, with the cost of the purchased items being deducted from the card.

The Director of Balad Al-Khair Society added that many social research studies had been conducted on the targeted families to assess their circumstances and determine their eligibility for assistance. Based on these studies, 1,600 individuals were identified as beneficiaries of the project, calculated by allocating 25 K.D. for each family member sufficient for one month, allowing the family to buy their food and drink needs through the cards.

Al-Thuwaini pointed out that the goal has been achieved, and they have managed to assist needy families, witnessing smiles appearing on their faces after receiving the necessary help. He added that the coming period will, God willing, witness the launch of more charitable projects covering various aspects of the needs of underprivileged families in Kuwait.

The Balad Al-Khair Society works to improve the humanitarian conditions for many beneficiaries, as it is rooted in the "Kuwait of Good" to extend help to those in distress, in accordance with the directives of our noble Sharia, and to achieve the lofty goal of humanity, so that good prevails and tranquility is realized.

Namaa Charity helps Syrian refugees in southern Turkey

  The Kuwaiti Namaa Charity concluded on Tuesday a comprehensive humanitarian program aimed at providing support and relief to 4,880 Syrian refugees in the regions of Urfa, Gaziantep, Kilis, Antakya, and Reyhanlı in southern Turkey. Khaled Al-Shammari, an official with the charity, stated in a statement to the Kuwait News Agency (KUNA) that the program included the distribution of food baskets, winter clothing for orphans, heating materials to help them face the harsh cold, and vouchers for the most needy families, allowing them to purchase their essential needs.

Al-Shammari pointed out that this program is part of a campaign launched by Namaa Charity to provide relief to those in need in winter in the most affected countries. He emphasized that Namaa is committed to reinforcing Kuwait’s leading role in humanitarian work, providing essential assistance, and embodying the foundation’s vision in promoting values of cooperation and humanitarian solidarity. — KUNA

Kuwait sends 9th planeload of aid to Lebanon

  The ninth plane of the Kuwaiti aid airbridge arrived in Lebanon on Wednesday carrying 40 tons of food aid as part of the Kuwaiti humanitarian airlift to assist Lebanon, in light of the hardships faced by the Lebanese people due to Zionist occupation assaults.

In a statement to KUNA, the First Secretary at the Kuwaiti Embassy in Beirut Abdullah Al-Diyin, who was present to receive the plane, said: “In implementation of the directives of the political leadership in Kuwait and as part of the (Kuwait is by Your Side) campaign, and continuing the Kuwaiti humanitarian airlift to support our brothers in Lebanon, the ninth plane of the Kuwaiti air force arrived, carrying 40 tons of food supplies, which will be handed over to the Higher Relief Committee in Lebanon.”

Al-Diyin added: “On this occasion, we reaffirm our pride and appreciation for all the concerned parties involved in delivering this aid to the brotherly Lebanese people, foremost among them the Kuwaiti air force, Kuwait Red Crescent Society and Kuwaiti charitable organizations.”

Brig Gen Ahmed Ibrahim, a representative of the Lebanese Higher Relief Commission, expressed his gratitude to Kuwait, both the leadership and the people, for their constant presence in supporting Lebanon and providing assistance. He praised Kuwait’s distinguished role in humanitarian work and its swift response to support its brothers. Alongside Al-Diyin, Brig Gen Ibrahim was also present to welcome the Kuwaiti air force plane. — KUNA

The Israeli occupation forces are committing crimes of genocide in the Gaza Strip for the 446th consecutive day, through dozens of air raids and artillery bombardments, committing massacres against civilians, amid a catastrophic humanitarian situation due to the siege and the displacement of more than 95% of the population.

Our correspondents reported that the occupation’s planes and artillery continued their violent bombardment on Wednesday across various areas of the Gaza Strip, targeting homes, shelters for displaced persons, and streets, resulting in dozens of martyrs and wounded.

The occupation forces continue their ground invasion of vast neighborhoods in Rafah since May 7, amid aerial and artillery bombardments and horrific massacres, along with the demolition of citizens' homes in Jabalia camp.

For 82 consecutive days, northern Gaza has been under Israeli siege and starvation amid heavy aerial and artillery bombardments, completely isolating the northern governorate from Gaza.

For the 62nd day in a row, the occupation forces continue to forcibly disrupt the work of the civil defense in northern Gaza due to ongoing Israeli targeting and aggression, leaving thousands of citizens without humanitarian or medical care.

Early this morning, there was Israeli artillery fire targeting the northwestern areas of the Al-Nuseirat camp in the central Gaza Strip.

Israeli tanks also opened intensive fire northwest of the city of Rafah in southern Gaza.

On Wednesday morning, 9 martyrs and more than 15 wounded were reported due to the continuous Israeli bombardment on the Gaza Strip during the early hours.

One martyr and 3 injuries resulted from the bombardment of the occupation planes on the house of the Al-Manirawi family in Deir al-Balah.

One martyr and a serious injury were reported after targeting the house of the Al-Afranji family around the Ain Jalout towers, south of Al-Nuseirat in the central Gaza Strip.

Additionally, 2 martyrs and wounded were reported from an Israeli aerial raid on an apartment in the Al-Manara neighborhood, south of Khan Younis city in southern Gaza.

An Israeli airstrike targeted a house surrounding the Ain Jalout towers, south of Al-Nuseirat camp in the central Gaza Strip.

An Israeli airstrike also targeted the city of Deir al-Balah.

The occupation army demolished residential buildings around the Jabalia al-Nazla Club in northern Gaza.

In the first hour of this morning, an Israeli airstrike targeted a house in the Ma'an area, east of Khan Younis city.

Today's events included artillery fire and heavy gunfire from occupation vehicles northwest of Al-Nuseirat.

Israeli naval vessels also opened fire west of Al-Nuseirat.

Israeli artillery stationed east of Khan Younis targeted the western areas of the city of Rafah in southern Gaza.

It is worth noting that the Ministry of Health confirmed that the toll from the Israeli aggression had risen to 45,338 martyrs and 107,764 injuries since October 7, 2023.

On another note, 9 Israelis were injured early Wednesday during a rush to shelters in Tel Aviv after a missile fired from Yemen was claimed to have been intercepted by the Israeli army.

The official Israeli broadcasting agency stated that "for the second time in two days, air defenses intercepted a ballistic missile from Yemen in the early morning before it entered the airspace."

It added that alarm sirens sounded in many villages in the greater Tel Aviv area and the interior plain, and nine people were injured due to tripping while rushing to the shelters.

It revealed that "the political level is considering launching a new attack against Yemen," which would be the fourth since the onset of the Israeli genocide in Gaza.

Our noble religion always encourages us to become one united nation, interconnected through cohesion and solidarity in facing life's challenges and the plans of the enemies of this faith. Therefore, various verses and hadiths emphasize these meanings, including the solidarity that naturally extends to striving to support Muslim minorities, especially in Western countries, in light of the major challenges they face that weigh heavily on them over time and place them in difficult situations.

Among the reasons that make us stand by our brothers from Muslim minorities in Western countries are the following:

1. The bond of brotherhood in faith:

This is the strongest tie of faith among the members of the Muslim Ummah. From this standpoint, we must change our perception of minorities from a marginal, secondary issue to one of the major issues that should be among the priorities of Muslim states and peoples.

2. Following the example of the Prophet:

The model of a Muslim state during the time of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) paid great attention to Muslim minorities in both times of peace and war. Evidence of this includes the sending of ambassadors by the Prophet, such as Mus'ab ibn Umayr to Medina, Mu'adh ibn Jabal, Abu Musa al-Ash'ari, Khalid ibn al-Walid to Yemen, and other companions to various regions.

3. The necessity of improving the image of Islam in the West:

Muslims in Western countries can be a model of goodness and reform, and a bright representation of Islam, making them an example of a Muslim who takes pride in their faith. However, for this to happen, they need adequate care and support.

4. Building a bridge of communication between the Islamic world and the Western world:

Muslim minorities currently live in the focal point of conflict between the Islamic and Western sides. Thus, they are the most capable and qualified to understand both sides and act as a missing link between them.

5. Preserving the identity of the Muslim Ummah:

There is no doubt that the communities of Muslim minorities in Europe represent an important part of the identity of this Ummah. Therefore, preserving these communities from Westernization, dissolution, and forced integration is crucial for safeguarding the foundational element of the Islamic Ummah's identity. To the extent that minority communities are granted freedom of belief and freedom of worship, they can preserve their heritage and cultural identity, which is certainly vital for maintaining the identity of an important part of the body of the Islamic world.

The death toll from the “Israeli” genocide war on the Gaza Strip has risen to 45,338 martyrs and more than 107,700 injured, according to the latest update from the Ministry of Health in Gaza, with the genocide war continuing for the 445th consecutive day. The occupation army persists in its campaign of genocide against areas in northern Gaza, intensifying its attacks on hospitals amid a severe blockade that has resulted in entire families being wiped out, according to what the government media office confirmed.

The Ministry of Health announced that the number of martyrs in the Strip since October 7, 2023, has reached 45,338 and 107,764 injured.

In a statement today, Tuesday, the Ministry of Health stated that the occupation army “committed three massacres against families in the Gaza Strip within 24 hours,” as a result of which 21 martyrs and 51 injured were transferred to hospitals, noting that there are a large number of victims trapped under the rubble and in the streets that rescue and ambulance crews cannot reach amid ongoing "Israeli" attacks.

 Intense Targeting of Northern Gaza Hospitals

The "Israeli" occupation army continues its violent aggression against besieged northern hospitals, opening heavy fire from its tanks on Al-Awda Hospital, Kamal Adwan Hospital, and the Indonesian Hospital after forcing the injured and patients to evacuate the latter. This comes as the army issued evacuation orders to residents of the Shujaiya area, demanding they move to the west of Gaza City.

The targeting of Kamal Adwan Hospital continues, as its vehicles fired heavily on homes in the vicinity of the hospital, and some patients inside were injured as a result of an explosion from a "booby-trapped robot" in its vicinity.

At the same time, "Israeli" army vehicles are besieging the Indonesian Hospital in northern Gaza amid heavy gunfire in the area.

Al-Awda Hospital in Tel Al-Zaatar east of Jabalia refugee camp confirmed that violent air raids by the occupation took place in its vicinity, coinciding with heavy gunfire from tanks and fires breaking out in nearby homes.

The hospital administration announced that a fire broke out in the central medicine warehouse as a result of the occupation’s bombardment of the area.

For his part, Marwan Al-Hams, Director of Field Hospitals at the Ministry of Health, confirmed that the occupation forces have rendered the three operational hospitals in the northern Gaza Strip out of medical service due to successive attacks that have led to their disruption and damage to parts of them.

He reported that the beginning was yesterday when the occupation army requested the evacuation of patients from Kamal Adwan Hospital to the Indonesian Hospital, which was later stormed, forcibly removing those inside.

He noted that the ongoing attacks heighten the fears regarding the fate of Al-Awda Hospital, which houses about 250 patients and also suffers from a suffocating blockade and continuous threats, indicating that what is happening is a blatant violation of international humanitarian laws that prohibit targeting medical facilities.

The Hamas movement held the occupying forces fully responsible for the safety of medical crews, calling on the international community to assume its responsibilities and take urgent action to stop these crimes and ensure the protection of patients and hospitals in the Gaza Strip.

Hunger is devastating families in the Jabalia camp.

For his part, the Director of the Government Media Office in Gaza, Ismail Thawabta, stated in press remarks that what is happening in northern Gaza has not occurred to any people in the world, explaining that the Kamal Adwan, Al-Awda, and Indonesian hospitals in the north are on the verge of shutting down.

Thawabta added that families in the Jabalia camp have been entirely wiped out due to hunger, emphasizing that what is reaching the Palestinians in the Strip is less than 5% of their needs. He called on the international community and humanitarian organizations to open the crossings to allow the entry of food and baby milk.

In Gaza City, the Israeli occupation army issued orders for the forced evacuation of several residential blocks in the Shujaiya area, east of Gaza City, directing residents to move to the west of the city.

This comes as a member of the Civil Defense force was martyred along with his only child due to shelling that targeted the agency's headquarters in the Al-Daraj neighborhood, east of Gaza City.

In the central Gaza Strip, a Palestinian was martyred, and others were injured due to shelling from the occupying forces on homes in Deir al-Balah city.

An Israeli airstrike targeted a truck carrying aid.

A truck carrying flour in the central Gaza Strip was subjected to an Israeli airstrike on Monday evening, resulting in the martyrdom of four security personnel who were inside a vehicle guarding the truck on Salah al-Din Street in Deir al-Balah city.

The United Nations food agency stated that 23 trucks from a convoy consisting of 66 trucks carrying food and other humanitarian aid were looted and lost.

UN spokesperson Stephanie Tremblay reported that the World Food Programme convoy left on Sunday from the Kerem Shalom crossing via the Philiadelphia corridor, which had recently been approved. Despite Israeli assurances regarding the provision of safe conditions, an Israeli airstrike was carried out.

Tremblay added that the first 35 trucks arrived at the World Food Programme warehouse without significant losses, noting that Israeli forces delayed the rest of the convoy.

The government media office, in a brief statement, spoke about the occupation stealing aid and killing its security elements to starve civilians.

It indicated that the occupation is creating a stifling economic environment leading to exorbitant price hikes according to a systematic plan, pointing out that 728 security personnel for the aid have been martyred since the onset of the Israeli extermination war, highlighting that the occupation aims to achieve the crime of starving civilians, children, women, and the displaced.

  Ongoing Genocide in Gaza

The Israeli occupation forces continue to commit the crime of genocide in the Gaza Strip for the 444th consecutive day, launching dozens of airstrikes and artillery shelling, while perpetrating massacres against civilians amid a catastrophic humanitarian situation due to the siege and the displacement of more than 95% of the population.

Violent Bombings

Our correspondents reported that the occupation's planes and artillery continued their violent bombings on Monday in various areas of the Gaza Strip, targeting homes, shelters for the displaced, and streets, resulting in dozens of martyrs and injuries.

 Ground Invasion in Rafah

The occupation forces continue their ground invasion in vast neighborhoods of Rafah since May 7, with multiple fronts in Gaza amid air and artillery bombardment and the committing of horrific massacres, along with the destruction of citizens' homes in the Jabalia camp.

Siege and Starvation in Northern Gaza

For the 80th consecutive day, northern Gaza is suffering under an Israeli siege and starvation amid intense air and artillery bombardments, fully isolating the northern governorate from Gaza.

Disruption of Civil Defense

The occupation forces have also forcibly disrupted the work of the civil defense in northern Gaza for the 60th consecutive day due to ongoing Israeli targeting and aggression, leaving thousands of citizens without humanitarian and medical care.

Targeting of Civilians

Martyrs have fallen, and others have been injured in the occupation's targeting of a gathering of citizens on Mushta Street in the Shujaiya neighborhood east of Gaza City.

Massacres and Casualties

The Ministry of Health announced that the Israeli occupation has committed 5 massacres against families in the Gaza Strip, with 58 martyrs and 86 injuries reported in hospitals over the past 24 hours. The ministry stated in a statement: There are still a number of victims under the rubble and in the streets that emergency and civil defense crews cannot reach. It confirmed that the toll of the Israeli aggression has reached 45,317 martyrs and 107,713 injuries since October 7, 2023.

Targeting of Displaced Persons

Two citizens were martyred and 5 others injured due to the occupation's targeting of a tent for displaced persons near the Bani Suheila roundabout east of Khan Younis. Civil defense crews in Rafah managed to rescue a citizen from under the rubble of a house belonging to the "Duhair" family after it was targeted by Israeli occupation planes in the Masbah area north of Rafah.

Wounded Elderly Woman

A wounded elderly woman was brought to the European Hospital due to a gunshot wound from an Israeli occupation quadcopter in Abassan, east of Khan Younis. Our correspondent reported that the occupation forces have been carrying out airstrikes since yesterday, in addition to artillery shelling on the new camp in Al-Nussairat camp, along with gunfire and bombs from quadcopters. He emphasized the severity of the situation in the northern part of the camp.

Advancement into Al-Nussairat Camp

He added that the occupation forces advanced into the camp yesterday and besieged thousands of citizens and displaced persons in their homes and schools in the northern part of the camp. This morning, locals recovered 3 martyrs amidst confirmation that there are more martyrs in the area that are difficult to retrieve. One martyr fell to the gunfire of the Israeli occupation forces at a school housing displaced persons in the northwestern part of Al-Nussairat camp in the central Gaza Strip.

Artillery and Gunfire in Jabaliya

The occupation's artillery targeted various areas in Jabaliya, coinciding with gunfire from vehicles in western Jabaliya and from helicopter fire. The occupation blew up a residential square in the al-Jinina neighborhood in Rafah in conjunction with intense artillery shelling. Two citizens were martyred, and 19 others, including one in serious condition, were wounded due to the occupation's drone shelling targeting a group of citizens in the Mowasi area of Rafah city, in the southern Gaza Strip.

Attacks on Civilian Vehicles

Additionally, two citizens were martyred and several others injured in an attack by the occupation targeting a civilian vehicle in the Mowasi area west of Khan Younis governorate. One citizen was also martyred as a result of the occupation targeting a home belonging to a soldier in the Shati neighborhood, east of Gaza governorate.

Demolition Operations

The occupation forces executed demolition operations on residential buildings in Beit Lahiya, north of the Gaza Strip, simultaneously with gunfire from military vehicles stationed in the al-Saftawi area, in addition to ongoing airstrikes in the northern and southern parts of Gaza. The occupation also demolished several homes in the Jabaliya camp in the northern Gaza Strip.

In recent decades, there has been much talk about "Islamic terrorism" in all Western and colonial media, which have made distorting the image of Islam a central objective. This is due to the fact that Islam is a comprehensive entity that does not dissolve into the data they want to impose on the nations of the earth in the name of globalization, liberalism, and various other names; thus, diverting Islam from its main divine purposes.

Extremism and Moderation in Religions

Everyone knows that in every belief and religion there are extremists and moderates representing varying proportions, and the smallest of these proportions are found within Islam, which is defined by the framework set forth in the Holy Quran, the Sunnah of the Prophet (peace be upon him), and the conduct of his companions.

Negative Effects on Muslims' Reputation

This attack has left undeniable negative effects on the reputation of Muslims around the world, particularly in the West. This accusation has become a black hole through which they attempt to absorb and scatter the virtues and nobility of Islam. One of the preachers in Turkey, who works to spread Islam among tourists coming from Europe, said that the first question we are asked in this context by tourists is about the connection between terrorism and Islam!

Quranic Verses on Forgiveness and Tolerance

The Quranic verses that encourage forgiveness and tolerance are very numerous. Allah says:

• "If they submit, they will be ˹rightly˺ guided. But if they turn away, then your duty is only to deliver ˹the message˺. And Allah is All-Seeing of ˹His˺ servants." (Al-Imran: 20)
• "Do not argue with the People of the Book unless gracefully, except with those of them who act wrongfully. And say, 'We believe in what has been revealed to us and what was revealed to you. Our God and your God is ˹only˺ One. And to Him we ˹fully˺ submit.'" (Al-'Ankabut: 46)
• "Had your Lord so willed ˹O Prophet˺, all ˹people˺ on earth would have certainly believed, every single one of them! Would you then force people to become believers?" (Yunus: 99)
• "Let there be no compulsion in religion, for the truth stands out clearly from falsehood. So whoever renounces false gods and believes in Allah has certainly grasped the firmest, unfailing hand-hold. And Allah is All-Hearing, All-Knowing." (Al-Baqarah: 256)
• "You ˹O Prophet˺ will always find deceit on their part, except for a few. But pardon them and bear with them. Indeed, Allah loves the good-doers." (Al-Ma'idah: 13)
• "Be gracious, enjoin what is right, and turn away from those who act ignorantly." (Al-A'raf: 199)

Forgiveness, as is known, is the highest degree of tolerance, and the level of tolerance reaches the command, as He, the Exalted, says: "So, bear with them and respond with peace. They will soon come to know." (Az-Zukhruf: 89)

The Prophet's Example of Forgiveness

The noble Prophet's biography is filled with examples of forgiveness and tolerance, and perhaps its peak lies in the conquest of Mecca when the Prophet pardoned those who had wronged him, insulted him, fought against him, and expelled him from his home. This stance requires independent research outside the context here.

The Universal Message of Islam

And the Messenger, may peace be upon him, after establishing the foundations of monotheism, was tasked with spreading his message to the whole world, as Allah, the Exalted, says: "We have sent you ˹O Prophet˺ only as a mercy for the whole world." (Al-Anbya: 107) And His saying, the Highest: "Blessed is the One Who sent down the Decisive Authority to His servant, so that he may be a warner to the whole world." (Al-Furqan: 1) "It is only a reminder to the whole world." (Sad: 87-88) That is, spreading the idea of tolerance and forgiveness is one of the main tasks of the Islamic message, along with the equality that gives it the characteristic of universality.

Misconceptions of Islamic Conquests

Therefore, Western thought, especially colonial thought, works to connect the movement of Islamic conquests with what they refer to as "terrorism" these days. This connection is weak and has no objective historical basis.

The Sword's Lie

Recognition by Western Thinkers

To be objective, many Western thinkers have recognized these aspects of Islam and have written passionately in defense of it. However, amidst the noise of media sensationalism, these voices are hardly heard. One of the most important writers who approached the subject objectively is T. W. Arnold in his well-known book "The Preaching of Islam," which is one of the rare books in this field due to its reliance on hundreds of sources in various languages.

Conquests and Apostasy

Therefore, he affirms that these enormous conquests were not the result of a religious war waged in the name of spreading Islam, but rather followed a widespread movement of apostasy from Christianity to the extent that it has always been thought that this apostasy was the goal aimed at by the conquering Arabs!

Relations Between Christians and Muslims

Mr. "Arnold" says that the friendly relations that developed between Christians and Arab Muslims did not occur due to force and domination, but rather as a natural result of what the people of these countries and their religious leaders observed in the tolerance of the conquerors.

Misconceptions by Some Historians

Some Christian historians have begun to view the sword as a tool for Islamic proselytism, stemming from their resentments and hatred towards the new religion, and from their loss of the distinguished status they had gained due to their religious and clerical positions.

Conversion of Arab Tribes

The narrative continues that many Arab tribes that had embraced Christianity for centuries abandoned it at that time to convert to Islam. Among the most important of these tribes were the Banu Ghassan (the Ghassanids), who extended their influence over most of the Levant. It was said of them: "Lords in the Age of Ignorance, stars in Islam."

The Role of Caliph Umar

The righteous caliph Umar was attentive to the matter of these tribes entering Islam, so he provided them with teachers to instruct them in the principles of Islam. He appointed teachers in every region whose profession was to teach the people the Quran and educate them in religious matters. He instructed his officials to encourage these new Muslims, both young and old, to consistently attend the congregational prayers, especially on Fridays and during the month of Ramadan. He did not impose "men of religion" or "clergy" upon them, as seen in other religions. In Islam, there is no clerical hierarchy; rather, there are scholars and knowledgeable individuals.

Testimonials from Syrian Christians

When Abu Ubaidah camped in the Jordan Valley, the Christians of Syria wrote to him after witnessing the tolerance and compassion of the Muslims: "O Muslims, you are more beloved to us than the Romans, even if they share our religion. You are more trustworthy and compassionate towards us, you refrain from wronging us, and you govern us better." The people of the open territories adhered to the Jacobite and Nestorian sects, which subjected them to sectarian persecutions by the Byzantines who did not belong to either of these sects!

The Falsehood of Tribute ‘Jizya’

Questioning Historical Accuracy

As for what is rumored about Omar forcing Christians to practice certain customs, such as shaving the heads of their priests and tightening their girdles, the historian "Arnold" doubts its accuracy; he has not found any text regarding this from that period, and the first to mention this document was Ibn Hazm, who died around the middle of the fifth century AH, after the emergence of extremist currents that sought to find a historical justification for their actions.

The Concept of "Jizya"

As for "jizya," it is a term synonymous with "tax" of any kind paid by non-Muslims to the treasury in exchange for their exemption from the compulsory military service imposed on Muslims. Its value was modest; the affluent had to pay forty-eight dirhams a year, the middle class paid twenty-four, while those in need, such as farmers and manual laborers, paid twelve dirhams.

Abu Ubaidah's Example

Abu Ubaidah returned the tribute money to the people of Syria when he believed he could not protect them from the Romans. He wrote to them: "We have returned your money to you because we have heard about the forces that have gathered against us, and you have stipulated that we protect you from them, and we are unable to do that. We have returned to you what we took from you, and we remain committed to the terms we agreed upon, should Allah grant us victory over them."

Fair Treatment of Non-Muslims

There is much that confirms that Omar did not practice any form of distinguished transactions against the People of the Book, nor did the Muslims who came after him treat those who remained in their faith as Christians in such a manner. The rightly guided caliphs and all the general Muslims followed this approach.

Christian Churches Under Islamic Rule

In the year 92 AH / 711 AD, a Jacobite church was built with the permission of Caliph Al-Walid bin Abdul Malik. Khalid Al-Qasri, who was the governor of the Persian and Arab Iraq (105 - 120 AH), built a church for his Christian mother to worship in!

During the reign of the Abbasid Caliph Al-Mahdi (158 – 196 AH), a church was built in Baghdad for the Christians who had been captured during the wars with the Byzantines. During the era of Harun al-Rashid (170 – 193 AH), "Sergius," the Nestorian bishop of Basra, received permission to build a church in Basra. Additionally, a church was built in Babylon that contained the tombs of the prophets Daniel and Ezekiel.

Tolerance in Islamic Conquests

Christian communities in the East, after the Islamic conquests, experienced what they had not witnessed for many centuries, whether under Roman or Persian rule. For example, in the fifth century AD, "Barsauma," the Bishop of Nazareth, incited the Persian king and got close to him, leading to the slaughter of 7,800 Orthodox Church members. Additionally, the Persian king "Khosrow" carried out another massacre of the Orthodox under the incitement of the Jacobite!

Dispelling Myths of the Sword and Terrorism

The myth of the sword and terrorism falls before these historical truths. One of the reasons for the conversion of Christians to Islam was the deterioration that afflicted the Eastern Church in both moral and spiritual aspects. They sought a pure spiritual environment, which they found in the clarity of monotheism.

Insights from Orientalists

"Keitany," one of the prominent Orientalists of the nineteenth century, believes that the spread of Islam among the Christians of the Eastern churches was a result of their dissatisfaction with the sectarian sophistry brought into Christian theology by the Hellenistic Greek spirit.

He adds that we – meaning the Westerners – have not heard of any orchestrated attempt to force non-Muslim sects to accept Islam, nor of any organized persecution aimed at eradicating Christianity. If the caliphs had chosen to implement one of these plans, they could have easily eradicated Christianity in the same way that "Ferdinand" and "Isabella" expelled Islam from Andalusia.

Broad Principles of Tolerance

These were the broad principles for dealing with the People of the Book by Muslims, and although some historical cases deviated from this rule, they are rare instances. One notable example is when Al-Mutawakkil, the Abbasid caliph (847-861 CE), exhibited a kind of harshness towards all of his opponents, even among Muslims!

Treatment of Holy Sites

Even during the days of the Crusades, it is known that when the Crusaders entered Jerusalem (493 AH / 1099 AD), they desecrated Al-Aqsa Mosque, built a wall in front of the mihrab, converted another section of it into a church and raised the cross on it. They referred to another section as the "Temple of Solomon" and made it a stable for their horses next to it, for a group of them known as the Knights Templar.

Islam of Bogomilists

From modern history, let us provide one example for remembrance: the conversion of the people of Bosnia to Islam. These individuals are originally Serbs who belong to a religious sect called “Bogomilism”. The Catholic Church considered them heretics and ordered crusades against them because many of their beliefs are similar to those of Muslims, such as the prohibition of drinking alcohol, their refusal to worship the Virgin Mary and their rejection of baptism, as well as their denial of the cross as a religious symbol. They believed that Christ himself was not crucified. Therefore, when the Ottoman Muslims entered Serbia, these people converted to Islam. Subsequently, they became victims of massacres, killings, and displacement that continue to this day. Their national affiliation did not provide them with any protection. This is something that has never happened in the long history of Islam. The massacres they experienced and the mass rape of their women in the 1990s remain a stain on the overall Western history, which stood as a bystander to these events and did not label them as organized terrorism or any other commonly used terms.

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Yusuf Nada, the Egyptian businessman and a prominent leader of the Muslim Brotherhood, passed away today, Sunday, at the age of 93. Nada held significant positions within the Muslim Brotherhood, serving as the organization's international commissioner and playing important mediation roles between various countries.

Early Life and Career

Nada was born in Alexandria in 1931 and attended the Faculty of Agriculture at Alexandria University, where he graduated. He began his advocacy and political career at an early age, joining the Muslim Brotherhood in 1948 at the age of 17, becoming a member of the organization's second generation.

Influence and Leadership

Influenced by the teachings of the Brotherhood's founder, Sheikh Hassan al-Banna, Nada's intellectual and ideological orientations were profoundly shaped. His association with the Muslim Brotherhood was not merely membership; Nada was one of its most prominent leaders, leaving a lasting impact on its modern history.

Military Involvement and Imprisonment

In 1951, Nada participated in the Suez Canal War against British occupation. However, following the events of 1954, the Muslim Brotherhood faced severe repression from the Egyptian regime, leading to Nada's arrest in connection with the "Manshiyya" incident. He was released after two years of imprisonment.

Exile and Continued Activism

After his release from prison, Nada faced intense security harassment, including the confiscation of his assets, freezing of his accounts, and severe restrictions on his movements. These pressures forced him to emigrate in 1960 to Libya, where he established a strong relationship with King Idris al-Senussi, who granted him a Libyan passport, facilitating his travel to various global capitals.

Post-9/11 Accusations and Exoneration

Nada did not escape political accusations following the September 11, 2001 attacks. He was accused by then U.S. President George W. Bush of financing the attacks and supporting terrorism, leading to the freezing of his financial assets and placing him under house arrest in Switzerland.

Numerous intelligence agencies in Switzerland, Italy, and the United States investigated him, but he was exonerated after no evidence was found to incriminate him. In 2009, the United Nations Security Council removed Nada's name from the list of terrorism supporters at the request of the Swiss government.