senegal court jails
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Senegal court jails TikTok creators for insulting president

ByJustpaste.in

A Senegalese court has sentenced three TikTok influencers to custodial sentences and fines for insulting President Bassirou Diomaye Faye. Critics have condemned the ruling as a direct blow to free expression within the country.

The creators work for Feenal Digital, an online channel known for producing content supportive of former Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko. The decision follows a recent political rift between President Faye and Sonko.

Mandoumbe Diop, operating under the moniker Lamignou Darou, received a three-month unconditional prison term. He represents the most prominent of the group, boasting over 500,000 followers on TikTok.

Magueye Diaw and Moustapha Ndiaye were each handed two-month custodial sentences alongside fines of 500,000 CFA francs. Defence counsel Abdy Nar Ndiaye argued the posts were purely satirical and did not warrant criminal sanction.

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    Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Türkiye sign Makkah jo…

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    MAKKAH: Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Türkiye have signed the Makkah Joint Defence Agreement, pledging to strengthen collective security and defence cooperation among the three countries. The agreement was signed on Friday during a high-level summit at Al-Safa Palace in Makkah, where Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman received Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. According to the agreement, the three countries reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening collective security and promoting peace, stability and security in the region and beyond. The agreement is based on the longstanding relations and shared strategic interests of Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Türkiye. It also highlights their continued defence cooperation and commitment to closer coordination on security matters. Any attack to be treated as an attack on all three A key provision of the agreement states that an armed attack against any one of the three countries will be regarded as an attack against all three. The pact is intended to enhance collective deterrence against acts of aggression and expand cooperation across various areas of defence. The agreement also seeks to strengthen military and security coordination among the three states and build a framework for closer cooperation in the face of regional security challenges. The summit brought together the leaders at a time of heightened tensions and instability across the Middle East. Recent reporting had indicated that the three countries were preparing to deepen defence coordination through a joint pact. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif was accompanied by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, and Defence Minister Khawaja Asif. The leaders also reviewed bilateral and regional matters of mutual interest and discussed ways to further strengthen cooperation. The Makkah agreement marks a significant development in defence ties among Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Türkiye, establishing a stronger trilateral framework for collective security and defence cooperation.

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    Three minors allegedly sexually abused in Chakwal;…

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    CHAKWAL: Three minors were allegedly subjected to sexual abuse in separate incidents reported in Chakwal district, with police registering cases against the suspects and arresting three men, including a mosque imam, while two others were taken into custody after an alleged exchange of fire. The incidents, reported in the jurisdictions of Wanhar and Kallar Kahar police stations, have caused concern among residents and prompted calls for effective protection of children and swift action against those found responsible. In the first case, a 10-year-old girl was allegedly sexually assaulted by a local mosque imam after other children attending Quran lessons had left the mosque, according to the complaint lodged by her father with Wanhar police. The complainant said his two daughters regularly went to a nearby mosque in Mohallah Bawa Khan Baig to learn Quranic recitation. On the day of the alleged incident, the imam allegedly sent the 5years younger sister home early and dismissed the other children after hearing their lessons. According to the complaint, the suspect then allegedly called the 10-year-old girl into a room and sexually assaulted her. The girl was allegedly threatened with a knife and warned that she would be killed if she disclosed the incident to anyone. Police registered a case against the imam and launched an investigation. The suspect was subsequently arrested in an injured condition during an operation in the Manara area, police said. According to police, a raid on Wasnal Road, Manara, to arrest the suspect when he allegedly attempted to flee after seeing the police party. Police said the suspect stumbled and fell while fleeing, causing a pistol allegedly concealed in his waistband to discharge. He sustained a gunshot wound and was arrested before being shifted to the Trauma Centre in Kallar Kahar for medical treatment. The suspect was identified as Maulvi Saqlain Hussain, son of Nazar Hussain, a resident of Manara. In a separate incident within the jurisdiction of Kallar Kahar police station, a 16-year-old boy was allegedly sexually assaulted by a man who was staying at a local mosque in Shamsabad, near Khai village. According to the complaint filed by the boy’s father, who is a prayer leader at the mosque, the suspect allegedly assaulted his son and later attempted to assault him again. The complainant said the boy had initially remained silent about the alleged earlier incident out of fear. However, when he went to serve food to the traveller staying at the mosque, a commotion was heard after some time. The mosque caretaker and the boy’s father allegedly reached the spot and saw the suspect attempting to assault the boy, prompting the suspect to flee, according to the complaint. The boy later informed his father about the alleged earlier incident as well. In the third incident, two men allegedly involved in the sexual assault of a Class 10 student were arrested in an injured condition following an alleged exchange of fire in Chak Nagri, an area falling within Wanhar police jurisdiction. According to police, the suspects and two unidentified accomplices had allegedly taken the student to a nearby forest several days earlier, subjected him to severe physical assault and sexually assaulted him. Police alleged that the suspects recorded the incident and subsequently used the video to blackmail and intimidate the student. A police team later raided the suspected hideout to arrest the accused, police said. The suspects allegedly opened fire on the police party along with their two unidentified accomplices. During the ensuing exchange of fire, the two wanted suspects sustained gunshot wounds, allegedly after being hit by firing from their own accomplices, according to police. The two unidentified men escaped under the cover of darkness and the forest terrain. The injured suspects were arrested and shifted to a medical facility for treatment. Police said further investigation and legal proceedings were under way. The three cases have highlighted concerns over the vulnerability of children to sexual violence and exploitation. Residents have called for prompt investigation of the allegations, protection of the victims and strict action against suspects if the charges are established in court. Police officials said investigations into all the cases were continuing and that further action would be taken in accordance with the law.

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    Thailand’s ancient monastery earns Unesco World Heritage status

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    A historic Buddhist monastery in southern Thailand has been added to the Unesco World Heritage List, giving the country another globally recognized cultural landmark and providing stronger support for its long term preservation. The recognition marks an important milestone for Thailand as it is the first World Heritage site located in the country’s southern region. The newly listed site is Wat Phra Mahathat Woramahawihan, located in Nakhon Si Thammarat province. The Thai Foreign Ministry announced that it is now Thailand’s ninth World Heritage site. Officials said the designation will help improve conservation efforts through closer cooperation between national authorities and local communities, ensuring the monastery remains protected for future generations. The announcement was celebrated at the monastery with traditional ceremonies. Monks gathered to chant blessings while officials and visitors took part in the event by striking a ceremonial gong. Local media described the atmosphere as one of pride and celebration as the centuries old temple received international recognition. According to Unesco, the monastery has served as one of the region’s leading Buddhist centers since it was established in the eighth century. Over the centuries, it has become an important place of worship, education, and cultural exchange. The temple complex is home to impressive stone stupas, a large reclining Buddha statue, and numerous standing and seated golden Buddha figures. Visitors can also see detailed sculptures and artistic depictions of guardian deities throughout the site. The monastery reflects a rich blend of religious and cultural influences that shaped Southeast Asia over many centuries. Because of its location on the Thai peninsula between the Pacific and Indian oceans, it became a meeting point for traders, pilgrims, and scholars from across the region. Unesco noted that traditions and architectural styles from Brahmanism, Hinduism, Mahayana Buddhism, and Theravada Buddhism, along with influences from India, Sri Lanka, and Myanmar, are all visible in the site’s design and religious practices. These different cultural traditions have been woven into the monastery’s buildings, ceremonies, and daily rituals, making it a valuable symbol of the region’s shared history. The site’s historical importance and unique cultural identity were key reasons behind its inclusion on the prestigious World Heritage List. Thailand hopes the international recognition will also strengthen its tourism industry. World Heritage status often attracts more international visitors, helping local economies while raising awareness about the importance of preserving cultural landmarks. Tourism remains one of Thailand’s most important economic sectors, although visitor numbers have not yet fully recovered to levels seen before the Covid-19 pandemic. Government figures show that tourist arrivals during the first half of this year were more than three percent lower than during the same period in 2025. Officials believe the addition of another World Heritage site could encourage more travelers to explore destinations beyond Thailand’s traditional tourist hotspots. Wat Phra Mahathat Woramahawihan now joins a distinguished list of Thai World Heritage sites that includes the Historic City of Ayutthaya, the Thungyai Huai Kha Khaeng Wildlife Sanctuaries, and the Ancient Town of Si Thep. The latest recognition highlights Thailand’s rich cultural heritage while reinforcing efforts to preserve one of the country’s most significant religious and historical treasures for generations to come.

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    UK opens fully funded scholarships, startup fellow…

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    The United Kingdom has invited applications from Pakistani students, professionals and entrepreneurs for its fully funded Chevening Scholarships, Chevening Oxford Centre for Islamic Studies (OCIS) Fellowship and Commonwealth Startup Fellowship. In a statement issued on Tuesday, the British High Commission said the programmes aim to help talented Pakistanis gain access to world-class education, strengthen professional skills and build international networks. The Chevening Scholarship offers fully funded one-year master’s degree programmes at leading UK universities for individuals who demonstrate leadership potential, professional achievements and a commitment to creating positive change in their communities. The Chevening Oxford Centre for Islamic Studies Fellowship is designed for mid-career academics and professionals. It provides an opportunity to conduct independent research at the University of Oxford while engaging with scholars from around the world. The Commonwealth Startup Fellowship targets promising entrepreneurs, helping them develop innovative businesses through mentorship, expert guidance and training in the UK. The programme also supports participants in preparing their ventures for future growth and expansion. British High Commissioner to Pakistan Jane Marriott said Pakistan has an abundance of talented individuals, and these programmes are designed to equip them with the skills, knowledge and global connections needed to lead organisations, expand businesses and address major global challenges. She advised applicants to submit original applications based on their own experiences, ambitions and ideas, warning that the use of AI-generated responses could lead to disqualification during the selection process. The High Commission said all three programmes cover major expenses, including airfare, tuition fees, visa costs and living allowances, allowing selected candidates to focus entirely on their studies or professional development. Beyond academic and career opportunities, participants will also gain international exposure, experience different cultures and establish long-term professional relationships with leaders and experts from across the globe. According to the British High Commission, Pakistan has produced more than 2,000 Chevening alumni who are serving in government, business, academia, media and civil society. Worldwide, the Chevening network includes numerous influential leaders, including several current and former heads of state and government. Applications for the Commonwealth Startup Fellowship opened on August 3 and will remain open until September 1, while applications for the Chevening Scholarship and the OCIS Fellowship are also currently being accepted through their respective official application portals.

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    Trump claims US controls Iran’s finances 

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    WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump has claimed that Washington has control over Iran’s financial resources as the conflict between the United States and Iran continues. In an interview, Trump said the US was effectively acting as a banker for Iran. He claimed Washington had control over a large amount of Iranian money. Trump also described Iran’s economic situation as extremely difficult. He alleged that the country was facing very high inflation and that its currency had lost much of its value. The US president further claimed that Iran was struggling to pay its soldiers and suggested that the economic pressure could become increasingly difficult for Tehran to sustain. Trump outlined several possible approaches toward Iran. He said Washington could maintain the current economic pressure, launch further military action or rely more heavily on financial measures. He said his main objective in the conflict was to prevent Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon. Trump also claimed that US military action had stopped Tehran from obtaining such a capability. Qatar urges reopening of Strait of Hormuz Meanwhile, Qatar said talks between Iran and Oman on arrangements for reopening the Strait of Hormuz had reached an advanced stage. Qatari Foreign Ministry spokesman Majed Al-Ansari said the negotiations had reached a critical point. He expressed hope that the strategically important waterway would reopen as soon as possible. Qatar said it supports diplomatic efforts aimed at reducing tensions and resolving the dispute. Iran and Oman have been discussing legal and technical arrangements for the resumption of maritime traffic through the strait. Shipping activity in the area has been disrupted following the military confrontation between Iran and the United States. Tehran has linked the reopening of the waterway to the resolution of disputes surrounding what it describes as US violations of a June memorandum of understanding. Araghchi says US sought negotiations Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has claimed that Washington eventually sought negotiations with Tehran after initially demanding Iran’s unconditional surrender. Speaking during a televised press conference, Araghchi said the US had initially taken a hard-line position but later sought talks. He claimed that the change demonstrated Iran’s ability to withstand military and political pressure. Araghchi also said Iran had surprised countries around the world by resisting the United States. The Iranian foreign minister said Washington had support from Israel and several Western countries during the conflict. He also discussed the situation with German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul during a telephone conversation. According to Iranian state media, Araghchi told his German counterpart that the insecurity in the Strait of Hormuz was the result of US and Israeli military actions against Iran. He briefed Wadephul on Iran’s discussions with Oman regarding the creation of a safe route for maritime traffic through the strategic waterway. The two officials also discussed bilateral relations and wider regional and international developments. Araghchi called on the international community to hold Washington accountable for what he described as the security and economic consequences of the disruption in the Strait of Hormuz. He maintained that lasting security in the waterway would require an end to what Tehran considers US military aggression, maritime restrictions and violations of previous commitments.

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    Google’s new AI satellite image tool raises fears over fake visuals

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    Google has introduced a new artificial intelligence feature for Google Earth that allows users to create AI generated images using satellite, aerial and three dimensional mapping data. While the company says the tool is designed to support creative and practical uses, researchers and digital investigation experts have expressed concern that it could make it easier to produce convincing fake satellite images. The new feature, called Create Image, was launched on Thursday and uses Google’s Nano Banana 2 image generation technology. It enables users to zoom into locations on Google Earth and generate realistic visualisations within seconds using existing mapping data. Google said the tool is intended to help people visualise historical scenes, develop real estate plans and explore other creative projects. However, experts who specialise in verifying online content warn that the technology could be exploited to spread false information and manipulate public opinion. Open source intelligence researchers say Google Earth has long been considered one of the most trusted resources for checking locations, analysing events and verifying images. They fear that adding AI generated content to the platform could blur the line between authentic satellite imagery and fabricated visuals. Digital investigations expert Henk Van Ess criticised the update, arguing that Google spent years building public trust in its mapping service but has now introduced a feature capable of generating fictional scenes. He warned that even if an AI generated image is not perfect, it could still appear believable because it is linked to a platform widely regarded as reliable. Brady Africk, a research analyst at the American Enterprise Institute who specialises in satellite image analysis, also raised concerns about the technology. He said the update makes it easier to create realistic fake satellite images that could spread rapidly on social media and mislead the public. According to Africk, the growing availability of AI generated imagery could also weaken confidence in genuine satellite photographs. He warned that journalists, researchers and fact checkers may find it increasingly difficult to distinguish authentic images from manipulated ones, making investigations more challenging. In response to the criticism, Google said all images created through the new feature include its SynthID digital watermark technology. The invisible watermark is embedded into AI generated content to help identify that it was produced using Google’s artificial intelligence tools. The company also said users can ask its Gemini chatbot to check whether an image contains a SynthID watermark, providing an additional method for verifying AI generated content. The launch comes as technology companies continue expanding the use of generative artificial intelligence across their products. At the same time, governments, researchers and technology experts are calling for stronger safeguards to prevent AI tools from being used to create misleading content or spread disinformation.

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