Category: 2. World

Four camps of the United Liberation Front of Assam (ULFA-I), based in Myanmar were allegedly targeted in a drone strike early on the morning of July 13, according to reports.

A powerful cross-border offensive was reportedly carried out by the Indian Army on the camps located inside Myanmar territory, involving nearly 100 drones, targeting the insurgent group’s base with precision.

According to a source, the attack allegedly led to the death of several cadres. Unconfirmed reports suggest that ULFA’s Lieutenant General Nayan Asom, a senior commander in the outfit’s military wing, may be among those killed in the strike.

As per reports, self styled Colonel of ULFA-I Ganesh Lahon aka, Ganesh Axom was also killed in the drone attack.

Following the reports, India Today NE contacted the Indian Army Public Relations Officer (PRO), who responded stating that they do not have any inputs regarding such an operation.

The air raid is being seen as one of the most significant strikes by Indian forces in recent times against insurgent infrastructure operating from across the border. 

However, official confirmation from the Indian government or military authorities is still awaited. 

 

ISLAMABAD: The chief minister of Pakistan’s most populous Punjab province this week launched the country’s first-ever riot management police force, state-run media reported, saying the move would prove instrumental in protecting people’s lives and ensure the safety of government infrastructure. 

As per a report in the state-run Associated Press of Pakistan (APP), a comprehensive eight-week training program was held at the Police Training Center in Punjab’s Farooqabad city for the first batch of the force. 

The training followed manuals from the United States, Turkiye, Europe and other developed countries, and was delivered by experts trained in Turkiye, the report said. During the passing-out ceremony, officers demonstrated exceptional crowd-control drills designed to safely manage violent protest scenarios.

“Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has established Pakistan’s first-ever dedicated Riot Management Police Force, marking a major milestone in law enforcement and crowd control in the province,” the APP report said on Saturday. 

“The new force has been created within the Punjab Police framework to protect the life, property, and safety of citizens as well as government infrastructure.”

The report said that the Riot Management Police, which consists of physically active, capable, and agile officers, was trained specifically to respond to volatile situations with professionalism.

It said the first phase of the Riot Management Police Force includes 5,000 personnel, out of which 3,000 have successfully completed training. The report said these personnel will be deployed across Punjab’s regional headquarters, with 250 officers assigned to each region to ensure “swift and organized response” to unrest.

Each Riot Management Police team of 250 personnel is supported by 15 specialized sub-units, including the First Aid Unit, the Drone Surveillance Team, the Crowd Engagement Team, the Negotiation Team, the Crowd Control Unit, the Arrest Unit, the Evacuation Team, the K9 (dog handler) Unit, the Sniper and Tactical Response Team.

“The force has been equipped with advanced crowd-control equipment, safety gear, and riot protection tools, and personnel will receive special allowances based on their professional roles,” APP said. 

Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz was briefed that the force has been specially trained to manage all types of crowds, including organized violent groups. The aim is to not only neutralize threats but also engage with protesters proactively to prevent damage to public and private property, she said.

“The establishment of this force brings a new dimension to modern governance,” Nawaz was quoted as saying. “By safely controlling angry crowds, it becomes possible to de-escalate tension and prevent chaos.”

Pakistan has historically seen violent protests that have caused significant damage to people’s lives, property and government infrastructure. 

Prepared and compiled by MALIK MERCHANT

Anchor Links: His Highness the Aga Khan’s historic visit to France

(Last updated: July 13, 2025, 10:22 AM, EDT)

Please visit this page frequently for updates on His Highness the Aga Khan’s historic visit to France. For quick access to our updates posted on this page, please click on the following anchor links:

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July 12, 2025: His Highness the Aga Khan blesses Ismailis with the first ever Didar since becoming the 50th Imam

Mawlana Shah Rahim Al Hussaini Hazar Imam, His Highness the Aga Khan, who inherited the Throne of Imamat from his father, Mawlana Shah Karim, His Late Highness Aga Khan IV, on February 4, 2025, bestowed his first ever Didar (lit. a glimpse) upon his spiritual children who had gathered on July 12, at Paris Expo Porte de Versailles. This was a powerful moment for the Ismaili community, as they demonstrated their unity by coming together from various countries under the jurisdiction of the Aga Khan Council for France. A second Didar will be held on July 13 for Ismailis from the remaining French jurisdiction countries that did not participate on July 12.

Aside from the joy and happiness the Jamat experienced during their first-ever mulaqat (meeting) with their Imam in Paris, their brothers and sisters worldwide were also joyful for them. They have been offering supplications and prayers for their beloved Imam to visit them soon. Mawlana Hazar Imam had expressed his wish during his Takhtnashini Farman made on February 11, 2025, that he would very much look forward to visiting the Jamats and meeting with the leaders of the countries where the Jamats live.

Mawlana Hazar Imam, accompanied by his two sons, Prince Irfan (10 years old) and Prince Sinan (8), conveyed guidance and blessings for the worldwide Jamat. His deep gratitude towards the volunteers for their tireless efforts in organizing the visit was evident.

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The Mukhi Saheb of Paris Principal Jamatkhana submitted Bayah (oath of allegiance) to the Imam on behalf of the Jamat, and Aiaze Mitha, President of the Ismaili Council for France, delivered a welcome address. Hazar Imam had a separate mulaqat for young members of the Jamat. It was a testament to his personal connection with them, making them feel a significant part of the community he leads.

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To commemorate the historic event, the Jamat prepared an art installation entitled Ensemble-Together, representing the community’s individual and collective stories. The artwork is a visual narrative of the Jamat’s historical journey, made up of symbolic plants and fruits including the Mangrove, which represents migration across the Indian Ocean — from Gujarat to Madagascar and East Africa; an Olive Tree, symbolising the welcome the Jamat found in France and the countries of its jurisdiction; the Pomegranate, honouring members of the Jamat from Afghanistan, Tajikistan, Pakistan, and India; the Fig, commemorating those who journeyed from Syria and other parts of the world; and Grape Leaves, representing the extension of the community to include family members from different faiths and backgrounds.

The fruits and leaves were inscribed with hundreds of hand-written messages by members of the Jamat and multi-faith family members of all ages, expressing their commitment to care for the environment and to serve the Imam and his Jamat.

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External websites: Please click on the following link(s) for more coverage and photographs of Mawlana Hazar Imam’s Didar in Paris (July 12, 2025):

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JULY 11 – JULY 12, 2025: THE ISMAILI UPDATE (PART 3), HIS HIGHNESS THE AGA KHAN MEETS FRENCH FOREIGN MINISTER AND ARRIVES AT THE DIDAR VENUE IN PARIS

The following YouTube posting by The Ismaili (Part 3) includes a brief recording of Mawlana Hazar Imam arriving at the venue in Paris for his historic Didar and being warmly received by the Jamati leadership. The video host also introduces the art installation, Ensemble-Together, a powerful representation of the community’s individual and collective stories and tributes. The video’s primary focus is on Mawlana Hazar Imam’s earlier meeting with the French Foreign Minister (see below), which took place on July 11.

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July 11, 2025 (2): His Highness the Aga Khan welcomed to Quai d’Orsay by the Foreign Minister of France, Jean-Noël Barrot

Mawlana Hazar Imam, His Highness the Aga Khan, was welcomed to Quai d’Orsay, the seat of France’s Foreign Ministry, by the Foreign Minister, Jean-Noël Barrot. This followed his visit to Élysée Palace, where he met President Macron to begin his official visit to France

In welcoming the 50th Hereditary Imam of the Ismaili Muslims, the Foreign Minister expressed the country’s shared desire to cooperate with the Ismaili Imamat in the service of the common good.

He said: “We are doing so with a high level of ambition to build together a global, coherent and effective vision.” He further expressed the hope that the “partnership will take us as far as possible along this path of responsibility, towards peace, development and the promotion of human dignity.”

Mawlana Hazar Imam also met with government officials, including the Minister of the Interior, Bruno Retailleau, at Place Beauvau, the official residence of the Minister of the Interior.

Two agreements in the field of culture were signed: between the Aga Khan Trust for Culture (AKTC) and the International Alliance for the Protection of Heritage (ALIPH); and between AKTC and the Musée Guimet. These agreements formalise ongoing cooperation and create the framework for new projects. 

External websites: Please click on the following link(s) for more coverage and photographs of the Aga Khan’s visit to France:

Posts on X

J’ai eu le plaisir d’accueillir à Beauvau Son Altesse le Prince Rahim Aga Khan V, chef spirituel des musulmans ismaéliens nizârites.

Nos échanges ont porté sur l’organisation de l’islam en France et sur les liens que la République entretient avec la communauté ismaélienne… pic.twitter.com/zE1AYrdHsN

— Ministre de l’Intérieur (@Interieur_Min) July 11, 2025

An English translation of the X post: I had the pleasure of welcoming to Beauvau His Highness Prince Rahim Aga Khan V, spiritual leader of the Nizari Ismaili Muslims. Our discussions focused on the organization of Islam in France and the ties that the Republic maintains with the Ismaili community present in our territory.

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July 11, 2025 (1): His Highness the Aga Khan is received by Emmanuel Macron; signs three Agreements with the French Republic

Mawlana Hazar Imam, His Highness the Aga Khan, was received on Friday, July 11, 2025, at the Élysée Palace by President Macron for a luncheon and private discussions to begin his official visit to France. He was accompanied by his uncle, Prince Amyn, and his brothers, Prince Hussain and Prince Aly Muhammad, along with leaders of the Ismaili community and the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN). The following three agreements were signed at the Élysée:  

1. Agreement between the French Republic and the Ismaili Imamat

The agreement reinforces a long-standing and deep relationship. It spans the domains of development investment, humanitarian support, health care, education, higher education and research, culture and the arts, agriculture development, food security, infrastructure, environmental protection and the fight against climate change, and social cohesion. It also facilitates dialogue and cooperation in matters of international relations, with the aim of fostering peace and stability, reinforcing a respect for pluralism, developing a strong and effective civil society, and promoting interfaith dialogue. The agreement recognises the presence of the Ismaili Imamat in France, including through official representation between the two parties and a joint coordinating committee.

2. Declaration of Intention to Cooperate in Syria

France and the Ismaili Imamat signed a declaration confirming their intention to cooperate for the successful and peaceful transition in Syria, protection of human dignity, rebuilding resilience and resettling displaced people. Cooperation will include responses to the urgent need for humanitarian assistance, and investments in the foundation for the sustainable, long-term development of the country, including rebuilding the economy through agricultural support and entrepreneurship; reinforcing the healthcare system; and providing cultural support to create employment and catalyse economic growth. 

3. Declaration of Intention to Cooperate in the Indian Ocean Region

France and the Ismaili Imamat signed a declaration of their intention to cooperate on the regeneration of coastal zones and marine ecosystems in the Indian Ocean region. Notably, this initiative will include support for the reconstruction and sustainable development of Mayotte. The partnership will encompass four key priorities: protection and restoration of coastal ecosystems, in particular mangroves; the promotion of nature-based solutions to respond to the climate crisis; the development of opportunities in the blue and green economies; and the reduction of pressure on coastal and marine zones by improved access to drinking water, energy, waste management and improved agricultural practices. The agreement envisages the joint mobilisation of Euro 100 million to support action in Mayotte, Kenya, Madagascar, Mozambique and Tanzania. 

His Highness the Aga Khan’s visit reinforces a longstanding relationship, spanning decades and across multiple areas of endeavour. For more than three decades, AKDN and the Agence Française de Développement (AFD) have cooperated in areas of mutual concern, involving more than 60 projects in Africa, South Asia, Central Asia and the Middle East. AKDN is a founding member of the Paris Peace Forum.  His family has enjoyed close relations with France going back over 75 years. His father, Mawlana Shah Karim, His Late Highness Aga Khan IV, was well-known and respected for his contributions to France in culture, tourism, diplomacy, and thoroughbred racing, amongst other areas. 

Members of the Ismaili community have lived in France for more than six decades and contribute actively to the strength and prosperity of the country. On July 12 and 13 July, Hazar Imam will grace the Jamat of France, Switzerland, Belgium and Côte d’Ivoire with didar.

July 11, 2025: More coverage on external websites

Please click on the following links for videos and photographs of His Highness the Aga Khan being received by the French President as he commences his official visit to France:

The following official video, posted by The Ismaili (Part 2), provides a comprehensive overview of Mawlana Hazar Imam’s first full day visit to France. Hazar Imam and members of his family were received at Palais de l’Élysée by Emmanuel Macron, President of the French Republic. The Ismaili will be updating their website regularly, and we encourage you to visit their postings for more information.

JULY 11, 2025: THE ISMAILI UPDATE (PART 2), HIS HIGHNESS THE AGA KHAN MEETS PRESIDENT MACRON

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July 10, 2025: His Highness the Aga Khan arrives in France – His first in a series of inaugural visits to his Ismaili followers as their 50th Hereditary Imam

Mawlana Hazar Imam, His Highness the Aga Khan, accompanied by his sons, Prince Irfan and Prince Sinan, arrived in France on the evening of Thursday, July 10, 2025. This marks a historic moment, as it is his first Jamati (community) visit to any part of the world since succeeding to the Throne of Imamat on February 4, 2025.

At the invitation of His Excellency Emmanuel Macron, President of the French Republic, Mawlana Hazar Imam was received by Jean-Christophe Peaucelle, the French government’s official representative to the Ismaili Imamat. Shamir Samdjee, the Ismaili Imamat’s representative to France, and Aiaze Mitha, President of the Aga Khan Ismaili Council for France, were also present. Diwan Shafik Sachedina, who has served the Ismaili Imamat loyally for several decades, was also in attendance. A delegation of Jamati leaders, representing the Jamats from France, Switzerland, Belgium, and Côte d’Ivoire, warmly welcomed Hazar Imam, showcasing the unity and strength of the Ismaili community.

During his visit, Hazar Imam will meet with President Emmanuel Macron and senior officials of the French government.

He will also grace the French jurisdiction Jamat with Didar (lit. a glimpse). Didar is a profound spiritual experience that connotes both the physical meeting with the Imam and the feeling of his spiritual presence. As the Imam-of-the-Time, descended from Imam Ali, Hazar Imam is the current bearer of the Nur (also Noor) or Light of Imamat, through which his followers seek the elevation of their souls. The following supplications by the 14th-century Ismaili missionary and Pir, Hasan Kabirdin, fondly express the Ismailis’ yearning for their Imam and his status:

Transliteration

Eji, Aash Karine Ya Ali hun tere dar ubhi,
Kar jodine em mangu Ya Shah;
Dejo didar tusi mahavar datar Shah,
Hama tere charane lagu.

Translation

With hope I stand at Thy door,
O Ali! And sincerely beg of Thee;
Bless me with Thy Holy Didar,
O Great Lord and Benefactor!
At Thy Feet I fall to prostrate

and

O Exalted Islam Shah [Imam-of-the-Time]
Our Lord and Master of the Age,
To you our hearts devoutly supplicate,
O the Eternal King and Lord of our souls!
Grace us with your visit to the Indian Subcontinent
[The Imam’s base at the time was in Iran.]
O Ali! You are Eternal,
You are the Lord of Eternity.
You alone are the Knower of the End,
Of the End that has no End.

The anticipation and excitement for this visit, a globally significant event, have been overwhelming, creating a buzz and energy that is palpable to all. The preparations, which have been underway in France for several weeks, reflect this excitement. The visit was announced in a Talika from Mawlana Hazar Imam, read out to the worldwide Jamat on May 30, 2025. Then, on June 15, the youth of the Jamat under the jurisdiction of the France Aga Khan Council learnt that Mawlana Hazar Imam would give them separate Mulaqats, adding to the eagerness for the upcoming events.

Two days ago, we were thrilled to learn that all his inaugural visits would be underpinned by the motif of Nur. The worldwide Jamat is eagerly anticipating these visits, feeling spiritually connected as Mawlana Hazar Imam, the bearer of the Light of Imamat, bestows his loving blessings on his spiritual children during his presence with them. We look forward to covering the visit through official reports published by the Ismaili and AKDN websites, as well as our readers’ personal accounts of the Mulaqat with Hazar Imam. Our coverage will be comprehensive, with links to external media reporting on the visit.

The following official video, posted by The Ismaili, provides a comprehensive summary of Mawlana Hazar Imam’s arrival in France. It offers glimpses of the significant work carried out by hundreds of dedicated Jamati members in preparation for the mulaqats taking place over the weekend. The Ismaili will be updating their website regularly, and we encourage you to visit their postings for more information.

JULY 10, 2025: THE ISMAILI UPDATE (PART 1), ARRIVAL OF HIS HIGHNESS THE AGA KHAN

Date posted: July 11, 2025.
Last updated: July 13, 2025 (10:22 AM, EDT).

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FEEDBACK AND Table of Contents

Before you leave, remember that Barakah’s editor, Malik, is here to assist yo u. If you have any questions or feedback, please scroll down to leave a comment or send an email to mmerchant@barakah.com. Also, don’t miss the opportunity to explore the diverse and extensive content on Barakah’s Home Page or Table of Contents, with over 350 pieces dedicated to Mawlana Hazar Imam, members of his family and the Ismaili Imamat. And don’t forget to visit our sister websites, Simerg and Simergphotos. You can stay updated by following Malik on @Facebook, @X and @LinkedIn.

It no longer takes expertise in geopolitics to understand what is unfolding in Gaza, only basic common sense and a functioning moral compass. The proposed “humanitarian transit areas” in Gaza, as outlined in recent reports, are nothing short of euphemistic cover for large-scale, controlled internment zones. In clearer terms: a modern-day concentration camp cloaked in humanitarian language.

This is not relief. This is forced containment amid an ongoing genocide. And it is being executed with increasing international consent, or worse, indifference. The so-called civilised world, from Washington to Brussels, is not only looking away, it is actively aiding, arming, and now sanitising the horror with policy jargon. When the bar for justice is so low that genocide must be politely debated, we must ask: what does global governance even stand for anymore?

Meanwhile, protestors calling out this atrocity face police batons, professional consequences, and digital erasure. Governments quick to send arms to conflict zones are equally swift in silencing dissent at home. The moral rot is not just in the Middle East—it is metastasising across so-called democracies whose complicity grows more undeniable by the day.

We hope, perhaps naïvely, that this failure of humanity will one day be acknowledged in full. But we also perceive a reckoning: one in which future generations will not merely judge but hold to account the architects and enablers of this cruelty. The record is being written in real time, and history will not look kindly upon those who stood by, renamed ethnic cleansing as a humanitarian strategy, and patted themselves on the back for doing so.

This is not peacemaking. It is stage-managed suffering. And no amount of spin can disguise its grotesque inhumanity.