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Recent Appearances... Rantburg
Abdulaziz bin Abdullah Al Sheikh Abdulaziz bin Abdullah Al Sheikh Learned Elders of Islam Arabia 20030730  
Ahmad Umar Sheikh Ahmad Umar Sheikh Jaish-e-Mohammed India-Pakistan 20020209  
Ahmed Omar Saeed Sheikh Ahmed Omar Saeed Sheikh Jaish-e-Mohammad India-Pakistan 20050731  
  Omar Saeed Sheikh Jaish-e-Muhammad India-Pakistan 20030424  
  Omar Sheikh Harkat-ul-Jehad Islamia Afghanistan/South Asia 20020122  
  Ahmad Omar Saeed Sheikh Jaish-e-Muhammad India-Pakistan 20040125  
  Omar Saeed Sheikh al-Qaeda Afghanistan/South Asia 20040509 Link
  Ahmed Omar Saeed Sheikh Jaish e-Mohammad Britain 20030502  
  Ahmed Omar Saeed Sheikh al-Qaeda Afghanistan/South Asia In Jug 20030502  
Ahmed Omar Sheikh Ahmed Omar Sheikh Harkat-ul Ansar India-Pakistan 20020127  
Ahmed Omer Saeed Sheikh Ahmed Omer Saeed Sheikh al-Qaeda Afghanistan/South Asia 20050725  
Ahmed Omer Sheikh Ahmed Omer Sheikh al-Qaeda India-Pakistan 20060305 Link
Ali Sheikh Abdullah Mubarak Ali Sheikh Abdullah Mubarak Tehrik Mujahideen India-Pakistan 20020608  
Ali Sheikh Ammar Ali Sheikh Ammar Lebanese Jamaa Islamiya Syria-Lebanon 20030521  
Anas Sheikh Amin Anas Sheikh Amin al-Tawhid Iraq-Jordan 20040427 Link
Fahim Sheikh Fahim Sheikh Sunni Tehrik India-Pakistan 20020518  
Faizal Ataur Rehman Sheikh Faizal Ataur Rehman Sheikh Lashkar-e-Taiba India-Pakistan 20060731 Link
Hussein al-Sheikh Hussein al-Sheikh Tanzim Middle East 20020728  
Ibad Al Yaquti Al Sheikh Al Sufiyan Ibad Al Yaquti Al Sheikh Al Sufiyan al-Qaeda India-Pakistan 20040123  
Ibn al-Sheikh al-Libi Ibn al-Sheikh al-Libi al-Qaeda Terror Networks 20020909  
Imtiyaz Ahmad Sheikh Imtiyaz Ahmad Sheikh Hizbul Mujahideen India-Pakistan 20020513  
Jaafar Sheikh Idrees Jaafar Sheikh Idrees Learned Elders of Islam Arabia 20060401 Link
Jaafar Sheikh Idris Jaafar Sheikh Idris Learned Elders of Islam Home Front 20020708  
Jamir Sheikh Jamir Sheikh Lashkar-e-Taiba India-Pakistan 20060727 Link
Javed Sheikh Javed Sheikh Laskhar-e-Taiba Afghanistan/South Asia 20040627 Link
  Javed Sheikh Lashkar-e-Taiba Afghanistan/South Asia 20040628 Link
Khaled Sheikh Mohammed Khaled Sheikh Mohammed al-Qaeda Afghanistan-Pak-India 20051027 Link
Khalid Sheikh Mohammad Khalid Sheikh Mohammad al-Qaeda India-Pakistan Captured 20030302  
Khalid Sheikh Mohammed Khalid Sheikh Mohammed al-Qaeda Afghanistan/South Asia Kuwaiti-Baloch In Jug Key Aide™ 20030519  
    Operations commander, grabbed in Rawalpindi
  Khalid Sheikh Mohammed International Islamic Front India-Pakistan 20020916  
  Khalid Sheikh Mohammed al-Qaeda Terror Networks & Islam Kuwaiti-Pakistani In Jug Big Shot 20030605  
    Former operations chief of al-Qaeda, now enjoying an extended vacation, probably on Diego Garcia or Bikini Atoll.
Khalid Sheikh Muhammad Khalid Sheikh Muhammad al-Qaeda India-Pakistan Pakistani In Jug 20030504  
Maulana Aslam Sheikhupuri Maulana Aslam Sheikhupuri Sipah-e-Sahaba Pakistan Afghanistan/South Asia 20050718  
Mohammed Ali Hassan Sheikh al-Mujahid Mohammed Ali Hassan Sheikh al-Mujahid Supreme Council of Global Jihad Terror Networks 20030813  
Muhammad Khaled al-Sheikh Muhammad Khaled al-Sheikh al-Qaeda   20020102  
Muhamoud Sheikh Ibrahim Suleh Muhamoud Sheikh Ibrahim Suleh Council of Islamic Courts Africa Horn Somali 20060625 Link
Omar Sheikh Omar Sheikh Jaish-e-Mohammad India-Pakistan 20031102  
  Omar Sheikh al-Qaeda Afghanistan/South Asia 20050812  
Raheel Abdul Rehman Sheikh Raheel Abdul Rehman Sheikh Lashkar-e-Taiba India-Pakistan 20060731 Link
Rahil Abdul Rahman Sheikh Rahil Abdul Rahman Sheikh Lashkar-e-Taiba India-Pakistan 20060715 Link
Rahil Abdul Rehman Sheikh Rahil Abdul Rehman Sheikh Lashkar-e-Taiba India-Pakistan 20060715 Link
Rahil Sheikh Rahil Sheikh Lashkar-e-Taiba India-Pakistan 20060922 Link
Salah Al Sheikh Salah Al Sheikh Saudi Sheikhs Arabia 20060425 Link
Sharif Sheikh Ahmed Sharif Sheikh Ahmed Council of Islamic Courts Africa Horn Somali 20060625 Link
Sheikh Abd Al-Rahman Al-Sudayyis Sheikh Abd Al-Rahman Al-Sudayyis Saudi Sheikhs Great White North 20040514 Link
Sheikh Abd al-Aziz Sheikh Abd al-Aziz Ansar al-Islam Europe 20040111  
  Sheikh Abd al-Aziz Katilea group Terror Networks 20031210  
Sheikh Abd al-Aziz Ibn Baz Sheikh Abd al-Aziz Ibn Baz Learned Elders of Islam Terror Networks 20031123  
Sheikh Abd al-Majid al-Zindani Sheikh Abd al-Majid al-Zindani al-Qaeda in Yemen Arabia 20060228 Link
Sheikh Abd al-Rahman al-Sudais Sheikh Abd al-Rahman al-Sudais Learned Elders of Islam Arabia 20040202  
Sheikh Abd al-Wahab Sheikh Abd al-Wahab Ansar al-Islam Terror Networks 20031210  
Sheikh Abdallah Al-Rashoud Sheikh Abdallah Al-Rashoud al-Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula Terror Networks 20040127  
Sheikh Abdallah Asshami Sheikh Abdallah Asshami Islamic Jihad Middle East 20030222  
Sheikh Abdallah Ibn Jebreen Sheikh Abdallah Ibn Jebreen Learned Elders of Islam Home Front 20031216  
Sheikh Abdel Akher Hammad Sheikh Abdel Akher Hammad al-Qaeda Africa North 20060807 Link
Sheikh Abdel-Amir Qabalan Sheikh Abdel-Amir Qabalan Learned Elders of Islam Syria-Lebanon-Iran 20051011 Link
Sheikh Abdellah Al-Mahdi Sheikh Abdellah Al-Mahdi al-Qaeda   20020118  
Sheikh Abdelmejid Sheikh Abdelmejid al-Qaeda   20020118  
Sheikh Abdul Aziz Sheikh Abdul Aziz Al-Jehad Afghanistan/South Asia 20020325  
Sheikh Abdul Aziz Al-Asheikh Sheikh Abdul Aziz Al-Asheikh Learned Elders of Islam Arabia 20040414 Link
Sheikh Abdul Aziz Bin Abdullah Sheikh Abdul Aziz Bin Abdullah Saudi Sheikhs Arabia 20030210  
Sheikh Abdul Aziz al-Jenabi Sheikh Abdul Aziz al-Jenabi al-Qaeda in Iraq Iraq 20030716  
Sheikh Abdul Aziz bin Baz Sheikh Abdul Aziz bin Baz Learned Elders of Islam India-Pakistan 20040123  
Sheikh Abdul Qadir Abdul Aziz Sheikh Abdul Qadir Abdul Aziz al Jamaa al Islamiya al Libiya al Muqatila Afghanistan-Pak-India 20051020 Link
  Sheikh Abdul Qadir Abdul Aziz Libyan Islamic Fighting Group Afghanistan-Pak-India 20051020 Link
Sheikh Abdul Salam Mohammed Zoud Sheikh Abdul Salam Mohammed Zoud Learned Elders of Islam Down Under 20040625 Link
  Sheikh Abdul Salam Mohammed Zoud al-Qaeda Europe 20040710 Link
Sheikh Abdul-Aziz al-Sheikh Sheikh Abdul Aziz al-Sheikh Saudi Sheikhs Arabia 20030208  
  Sheikh Abdul Aziz Al-Sheikh Saudi Sheikhs Arabia 20040214  
  Sheikh Abdul Aziz al-Sheikh Learned Elders of Islam Arabia 20020226  
  Sheikh Abdul-Aziz al-Sheikh Saudi Sheikhs Arabia 20030822  
Sheikh Abdul-Ghafour Al Qaisi Sheikh Abdul-Ghafour Al Qaisi Learned Elders of Islam Axis of Evil 20020811  
Sheikh Abdulahi Ali Sheikh Abdulahi Ali Council of Islamic Courts Africa Horn 20060708 Link
Sheikh Abdulaziz Al-Alsheikh Sheikh Abdulaziz Al-Alsheikh Muslim World League Arabia 20060402 Link
Sheikh Abdulaziz al Sheikh Sheikh Abdulaziz al Sheikh Learned Elders of Islam Arabia 20060328 Link
Sheikh Abdulaziz al-Shaikh Sheikh Abdulaziz al-Shaikh Learned Elders of Islam Arabia 20011025  
Sheikh Abdulaziz bin Abdullah al-Sheikh Sheikh Abdulaziz bin Abdullah al-Sheikh Learned Elders of Islam Arabia 20031107  
Sheikh Abdullah Ibn Bayya Sheikh Abdullah Ibn Bayya International Organisation of Ulema Europe Saudi At Large 20050611  
Sheikh Abdullah Idris Ali Sheikh Abdullah Idris Ali Tablighi Jamaat India-Pakistan 20030908  
Sheikh Abdullah Nasser al-Sobeihi Sheikh Abdullah Nasser al-Sobeihi Saudi Sheikhs Arabia 20031113  
Sheikh Abdullah Shreidi Sheikh Abdullah Shreidi Usbat al-Ansar Middle East 20020713  
  Sheikh Abdullah Shreidi Usbat al-Nur Middle East 20020716  
Sheikh Abdullah al-Ahmar Sheikh Abdullah al-Ahmar Yemeni Islah Party Arabia 20040407  
Sheikh Abdullah bin Abdul Rahman al-Jibrin Sheikh Abdullah bin Abdul Rahman al-Jibrin Saudi Sheikhs Arabia 20030528  
Sheikh Abdullah bin Jabreen Sheikh Abdullah bin Jabreen Saudi Sheikhs Arabia 20060728 Link
Sheikh Abdulmajeed Sheikh Abdulmajeed Faithful Youth Arabia 20030312  
Sheikh Abdulmajeed al-Zindani Sheikh Abdulmajeed al-Zindani al-Eman University Arabia 20040407  
  Sheikh Abdulmajeed al-Zindani Islah Central Committee Arabia 20040407  
Sheikh Abdulrahman al-Sudeis Sheikh Abdulrahman al-Sudeis Learned Elders of Islam Arabia 20031107  
Sheikh Abdurahman Jhalid Zubeir Sheikh Abdurahman Jhalid Zubeir al-Qaeda   20020118  
Sheikh Abu Abeida Sheikh Abu Abeida Esbat al-Ansar Syria-Lebanon-Iran 20060220 Link
Sheikh Abu Hamza Sheikh Abu Hamza Finsbury Park Mosque Britain 20020908  
  Sheikh Abu Hamza Supporters of Shariah Britain 20020908  
  Sheikh Abu Hamza Friends of Shariah Britain 20030405  
Sheikh Abu Muntasir Al-Baloushi Sheikh Abu Muntasir Al-Baloushi Rabittat Ahl ul-Sunnah Fee Iran Syria-Lebanon-Iran 20020908  
Sheikh Abu Omar Muhammad Al-Seif Sheikh Abu Omar Muhammad Al-Seif Al-Qaeda Terror Networks 20031020  
Sheikh Abu Qassam Sheikh Abu Qassam al-Qaeda Israel-Palestine 20050901  
Sheikh Abu Qatada Sheikh Abu Qatada al-Qaeda Iraq 20051117 Link
Sheikh Abu al-Abbas Sheikh Abu al-Abbas al-Qaeda Britain 20050908  
Sheikh Abu-Bashir al-Tartusi Sheikh Abu-Bashir al-Tartusi Learned Elders of Islam Terror Networks 20050903  
Sheikh Abul Hassan Mehdar Sheikh Abul Hassan Mehdar Islamic Army of Abyan Britain 20040603 Link
Sheikh Abul Kareem Zidan Sheikh Abul Kareem Zidan Learned Elders of Islam Arabia 20030327  
Sheikh Adel Sheikh Adel Ansar al-Islam Terror Networks 20031210  
Sheikh Aden the Syrian Sheikh Aden the Syrian Hizb al-Tawhid Terror Networks 20031210  
Sheikh Adil Yousuf Sheikh Adil Yousuf Saudi Sheikhs Arabia 20040203  
Sheikh Adlen Sheikh Adlen Force 9 Terror Networks 20031210  
Sheikh Ahmad Abd-al-Raziq Sheikh Ahmad Abd-al-Raziq Learned Elders of Islam Middle East 20020722  
Sheikh Ahmad Al-Tayyeb Sheikh Ahmad Al-Tayyeb Learned Elders of Islam Terror Networks 20031002  
Sheikh Ahmad Bin Hamoud Al-Khalidi Sheikh Ahmad Bin Hamoud Al-Khalidi Learned Elders of Islam Arabia 20031215  
Sheikh Ahmad Kuftaro Sheikh Ahmad Kuftaro Learned Elders of Islam Iraq 20030327  
Sheikh Ahmad Kutty Sheikh Ahmad Kutty Learned Elders of Islam International-UN-NGOs 20051124 Link
Sheikh Ahmad Omar Hashem Sheikh Ahmad Omar Hashem Learned Elders of Islam Terror Networks 20031002  
Sheikh Ahmad Yassin Sheikh Ahmad Yassin Hamas Israel-Palestine-Jordan 20060129 Link
Sheikh Ahmed Lemo Sheikh Ahmed Lemo Learned Elders of Islam Home Front 20020708  
Sheikh Ahmed Saleem Sheikh Ahmed Saleem Al Qaeda India-Pakistan 20020713  
  Sheikh Ahmed Saleem al-Qaeda India-Pakistan 20061002 Link
Sheikh Ahmed Salim Sheikh Ahmed Salim al-Qaeda Terror Networks 20020904  
Sheikh Ahmed Salim Swedan Sheikh Ahmed Salim Swedan al-Qaeda   20020904  
Sheikh Ahmed Yassin Sheik Ahmed Yassin Hamas Middle East Palestinian Deceased Supremo 20030821  
    Founder and spiritual guide of Hamas. Helizapped.
  Sheikh Ahmed Yassin Hamas Israel-Palestine Palestinian Deceased Supremo 20030225  
    Founder and spiritual guide of Hamas. Helizapped.
  Sheikh Ahmed Yassin Islamic Jihad Israel-Palestine-Jordan 20051027 Link
Sheikh Akram Ahmad Abd-al-Razzaq al-Ruqayhi Sheikh Akram Ahmad Abd-al-Razzaq al-Ruqayhi Learned Elders of Islam Middle East 20020722  
Sheikh Alaa El-Shanawihi Sheikh Alaa El-Shanawihi Learned Elders of Islam Middle East 20021225  
  Sheikh Alaa El-Shanawihi Al-Azhar House of Fatwa Middle East 20021225  
Sheikh Ali Belhadj Sheikh Ali Belhadj Islamic Salvation Front Africa: North 20051102 Link
Sheikh Ali Guma Sheikh Ali Guma Learned Elders of Islam Terror Networks 20031002  
Sheikh Ali Hassan al-Moayad Sheikh Ali Hassan al-Moayad al-Qaeda Europe 20031114  
Sheikh Ali Muhammad Sheikh Ali Muhammad Jamaat-e-Islami India-Pakistan 20030525  
Sheikh Ali Shee Sheikh Ali Shee Learned Elders of Islam East/Subsaharan Africa 20021201  
Sheikh Ali al-Khodeir Sheikh Ali al-Khodeir Learned Elders of Islam Terror Networks 20050903  
Sheikh Ali bin Khodeir al-Khodeir Sheikh Ali bin Khodeir al-Khodeir Learned Elders of Islam Arabia 20031130  
Sheikh Aqeel Al-Aqeel Sheikh Aqeel Al-Aqeel Al-Haramain Islamic Foundation Arabia 20030516  
Sheikh Arif Uddin Sheikh Arif Uddin Jamaatul Mujahideen Bangladesh Bangladesh 20060101 Link
Sheikh Atta Abu Al-Rushta Sheikh Atta Abu Al-Rushta Hizb ut-Tahrir Arabia 20031113  
Sheikh Ayed Al-Qarni Sheikh Ayed Al-Qarni Learned Elders of Islam Arabia 20040125  
Sheikh Bashir Ali Sheikh Bashir Ali Jammu and Kashmir Peoples Conference India-Pakistan 20020523  
Sheikh Dawood Hasan Sheikh Dawood Hasan D Company Afghanistan/South Asia 20040405  
Sheikh Dr. Ziyad al-Din al-Ayyubi Sheikh Dr. Ziyad al-Din al-Ayyubi Learned Elders of Islam Middle East 20020722  
Sheikh Ekremah Sabri Sheikh Ekremah Sabri Learned Elders of Islam Israel-Palestine Palestinian At Large 20050611  
    mufti of Jerusalem
Sheikh Fahd Sheikh Fahd al Badr India-Pakistan 20051202 Link
Sheikh Faisal Malawi Sheikh Faisal Malawi Learned Elders of Islam Arabia 20030327  
Sheikh Farid Sheikh Farid Harkat-ul-Jehad Islami India-Pakistan 20040225  
Sheikh Faysal Mawlawi Sheikh Faysal Mawlawi European Council for Fatwa and Research Europe 20020603  
Sheikh Feiz Mohamad Sheikh Feiz Mohamad Learned Elders of Islam Down Under 20031222  
Sheikh Hamed Al-Ali Sheikh Hamed Al-Ali Al-Fuheihil Arabia 20040523 Link
  Sheikh Hamed Al-Ali Salafi Movement in Kuwait Arabia 20040523 Link
Sheikh Hammad Kassim Sheikh Hammad Kassim Learned Elders of Islam Africa: East 20040104  
Sheikh Hamoud Hashem Al-Dharihi Sheikh Hamoud Hashem Al-Dharihi National Committee to Defend Al-Moayyad and Zayed Home Front: WoT 20060425 Link
  Sheikh Hamoud Hashem Al-Dharihi Islah Party Home Front: WoT 20060425 Link
Sheikh Hareth al-Dhari Sheikh Hareth al-Dhari Association of Muslim Scholars Terror Networks 20051213 Link
Sheikh Hassan Dahir Aweys Sheikh Hassan Dahir Aweys Council of Islamic Courts Africa Horn 20060701 Link
  Sheikh Hassan Dahir Aweys Islamic Courts Africa Horn 20060628 Link
Sheikh Hassan Ezzeddine Sheikh Hassan Ezzeddine Hezbollah Syria-Lebanon-Iran 20051026 Link
Sheikh Hassan Nasrallah Sheikh Hassan Nasrallah Hezbollah Middle East 20020915  
  Sheikh Hassan Nasrallah Hizbollah Syria-Lebanon-Iran 20011214  
  Sayyid Hasan Nasrullah Hezbollah Syria-Lebanon 20030902  
  Hasan Nasrallah Hezbollah Terror Networks Lebanese At Large 20040323  
  Hassan Nasrallah Hezbollah Middle East 20020619  
  Sheik Hassan Nasrallah Hezbollah Syria-Lebanon-Iran 20021204  
Sheikh Hassan Yousef Sheikh Hassan Yousef Hamas Middle East Palestinian Jugged Front Man 20030426  
    the Hamas Movement spokesman in the West Bank, detained by IDF until 9/6/2003
Sheikh Hassan Yousouf Sheikh Hassan Yousouf Hamas Middle East Palestinian Big Shot 20020728  
    Hamas in the West Bank, in ceasefire talks with Dahlan
Sheikh Hussein Halawa Sheikh Hussein Halawa European Council for Fatwa and Research Europe At Large 20050611  
Sheikh Ibrahim Al-Ghaith Sheikh Ibrahim Al-Ghaith Saudi Sheikhs Arabia 20040214  
Sheikh Ibrahim Hamed Sheikh Ibrahim Hamed Hamas Israel-Palestine 20040324  
  Sheikh Ibrahim Hamed Hamas Middle East 20031202  
Sheikh Ibrahim Mudeiris Sheikh Ibrahim Mudeiris Learned Elders of Islam Israel-Palestine 20040324  
Sheikh Ikrema Sabri Jerusalem Mufti Sheikh Ikrema Sabri Learned Elders of Islam Israel-Palestine 20011208  
Sheikh Ismail Nawahda Sheikh Ismail Nawahda Learned Elders of Islam Terror Networks 20060228 Link
Sheikh Jaber Khafaji Sheikh Jaber Khafaji Mehdi Army Iraq 20030502  
Sheikh Jamal Abu al-Heija Sheikh Jamal Abu al-Heija Hamas Israel-Palestine Palestinian At Large Front Man 20020406  
    Hamas political official in Jenin
Sheikh Jamal Khattab Sheikh Jamal Khattab Palestinian Islamic forces Syria-Lebanon 20030717  
  Sheikh Jamal Khattab Islamic Mujahed Movement Syria-Lebanon-Iran 20020424  
Sheikh Jamil Makulu Sheikh Jamil Makulu Allied Democratic Forces Terror Networks 20030417  
Sheikh Jamil-ur-Rehman Sheikh Jamil-ur-Rehman United Jehad Council India-Pakistan 20040227  
Sheikh Jamilur Rehman Sheikh Jamilur Rehman Tehrik ul Mujahideen India-Pakistan 20020622  
  Sheikh Jamilur Rehman Muttahida Jehad Council India-Pakistan 20020622  
Sheikh Jamshaid Sheikh Jamshaid Lashkar-i-Jhangvi India-Pakistan 20020515  
Sheikh Juad Al Issawi Sheikh Juad Al Issawi Mehdi Army Iraq 20030908  
Sheikh Khalid Azan Sheikh Khalid Azan Islamic Propagation and Awareness Africa: Subsaharan 20040411  
Sheikh Maher Hammoud Sheikh Maher Hammoud Learned Elders of Islam Syria-Lebanon-Iran 20051026 Link
Sheikh Moalim Ahmed Sheikh Moalim Ahmed Islamic Court Africa Horn 20060815 Link
Sheikh Mohamed Mokhtar Sheikh Mohamed Mokhtar al-Qaeda Southeast Asia 20040403  
Sheikh Mohamed Sayyed Tantawi Sheikh Mohamed Sayyed Tantawi Learned Elders of Islam Iraq 20030207  
Sheikh Mohammad Amin Sheikh Mohammad Amin Muttahida Majlis-e-Amal Afghanistan/South Asia Pakistani At Large 20050611  
Sheikh Mohammad Faleh Sheikh Mohammad Faleh al-Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula Arabia 20040622 Link
Sheikh Mohammad Hussein Fadlallah Sheikh Mohammad Hussein Fadlallah Learned Elders of Islam Axis of Evil 20020715  
Sheikh Mohammad Rashid Qabbani Sheikh Mohammad Rashid Qabbani Learned Elders of Islam Syria-Lebanon-Iran 20051012 Link
Sheikh Mohammad Saleh Sheikh Mohammad Saleh al-Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula Arabia 20040622 Link
Sheikh Mohammed Ahmad al-Rashid Sheikh Mohammed Ahmad al-Rashid Learned Elders of Islam Arabia 20030327  
Sheikh Mohammed Ali Hassan al-Mouyad Sheikh Mohammed Ali Hassan al-Mouyad al-Qaeda Arabia 20030721  
  Sheikh Mohammed Ali Hassan al-Mouyad Al Ihsan Mosque Europe 20030721  
Sheikh Mohammed Hosan Sheikh Mohammed Hosan Learned Elders of Islam Israel-Palestine 20020609  
Sheikh Mohammed Hussein Fadlallah Sheikh Mohammed Hussein Fadlallah Learned Elders of Islam Syria-Lebanon-Iran 20020512  
Sheikh Mohammed Omran Sheikh Mohammed Omran Ahlus Sunnah wal Jamaah Down Under 20040606 Link
  Sheikh Mohammed Omran Learned Elders of Islam Down Under 20031222  
  Sheikh Mohammed Omran al-Qaeda Down Under 20030903  
Sheikh Mohammed Yacubi Sheikh Mohammed Yacubi Mehdi Army Iraq 20030502  
Sheikh Mohammed Yazbek Sheikh Mohammed Yazbek Hezbollah Syria-Lebanon 20030425  
Sheikh Mohammed al-Fartusi Sheikh Mohammed al-Fartusi Mehdi Army Iraq 20030501  
Sheikh Mohsen Al-Awaji Sheikh Mohsen Al-Awaji Saudi Sheikhs Arabia 20050704  
Sheikh Mohsen al-Awaji Sheikh Mohsen al-Awaji Learned Elders of Islam Arabia 20031113  
Sheikh Muhammad Adeel Sheikh Muhammad Adeel Jaish-e-Mohammad India-Pakistan 20020622  
Sheikh Muhammad Adil Sheikh Muhammad Adil al-Qaeda India-Pakistan 20060305 Link
Sheikh Muhammad Bin Abdullah Al-Dawish Sheikh Muhammad Bin Abdullah Al-Dawish Saudi Sheikhs Down Under 20040625 Link
Sheikh Muhammad Dor Sheikh Muhammad Dor Learned Elders of Islam Africa: East 20040104  
Sheikh Muhammad Sayed Tantawi Sheikh Muhammad Sayed Tantawi Learned Elders of Islam Terror Networks 20040522 Link
Sheikh Muhammad Sumon Sheikh Muhammad Sumon Jamaatul Mujahideen Bangladesh Bangladesh 20060321 Link
Sheikh Muhammad bin Abd Al-Rahman Al-Arifi Sheikh Muhammad bin Abd Al-Rahman Al-Arifi Saudi Sheikhs Arabia 20021210  
Sheikh Muhammed Hussein Fadlullah Sheikh Muhammed Hussein Fadlullah Learned Elders of Islam Middle East 20021014  
Sheikh Muhammed Mahmud Seyom Sheikh Muhammed Mahmud Seyom Hamas East/Subsaharan Africa Palestinian Deported Big Shot 20021211  
    former imam of Jerusalem's al Aqsa mosque who was exiled to Sudan in 1988
Sheikh Muhiddeen Abdullahi Sheikh Muhiddeen Abdullahi Almuntada al-Islami Trust Africa Subsaharan 20040226  
Sheikh Mukhtar Robow Sheikh Mukhtar Robow Islamic courts Africa Horn 20060710 Link
Sheikh Nabil Qaouk Sheikh Nabil Qaouk Hizbullah Syria-Lebanon-Iran 20011223  
Sheikh Naim Kassem Sheikh Naim Kassem Lebanese Hizbullah Syria-Lebanon-Iran 20011212  
Sheikh Naim Qassem Sheikh Naim Qassem Hizbullah Syria-Lebanon-Iran 20060210 Link
  Sheikh Naim Qassem Hezbollah Syria-Lebanon 20030415  
Sheikh Nasser Al-Najdi Sheikh Nasser Al-Najdi al-Qaeda Terror Networks 20031101  
Sheikh Nasser ibn Hamad Al-Fahd Sheikh Nasser ibn Hamad Al-Fahd Learned Elders of Islam Arabia 20031123  
Sheikh Nazir Ahmad Sheikh Nazir Ahmad Jammu and Kashmir Liberation Front India-Pakistan 20031230  
Sheikh Omar Abd al-Rahman Sheikh Omar Abd al-Rahman Learned Elders of Islam Terror Networks 20031123  
Sheikh Omar Bakri Mohammed Sheikh Omar Bakri Mohammed Al Ghurabaa Britain 20050805  
  Sheikh Omar Bakri Mohammed Hizb ut-Tahrir Britain 20050722  
Sheikh Omar Bakri Muhammad Sheikh Omar Bakri Muhammad London School of Shariah Britain 20020908  
  Sheikh Omar Bakri Muhammad Shariah Court of The UK Britain 20020908  
Sheikh Omar Bakri Muhammed Omar Bakri al-Muhajiroun Britain 20050811  
  Sheikh Omar Bakri al-Muhajiroun Fifth Column 20021116  
  Sheikh Omar Bakri Muhammad Al-Muhajiroun Fifth Column 20030318  
  Sheikh Omar Bakri Mohammed Al-Muhajiroun Europe 20050722  
  Sheik Omar Bakri al-Muhajiroun Britain 20050807  
  Sheikh Omar Bakri Muhammed Al-Muhajiroun Britain 20020713  
  Omar Bakri Mohammed al-Muhajiroun Britain 20050810  
Sheikh Omar Saeed Sheikh Omar Saeed Jaish-e-Mohammad India-Pakistan 20020302  
Sheikh Omar bin Bakri bin Mohammed Sheikh Omar bin Bakri bin Mohammed Al Muhajiroun Britain 20050805  
  Sheikh Omar bin Bakri bin Mohammed Ahl ul-Sunnah wal Jammah Britain 20050805  
Sheikh Othman Abdel Aziz Sheikh Othman Abdel Aziz Islamic Movement in Kurdistan Axis of Evil 20021212  
  Sheikh Othman Abdel Aziz Ansar Al-Islam Axis of Evil 20021212  
Sheikh Raid Salah Sheikh Raid Salah Hamas Middle East 20030925  
Sheikh Raja Dib Sheikh Raja Dib Learned Elders of Islam Syria-Lebanon-Iran 20020110  
Sheikh Rashid Ahmed Sheikh Rashid Ahmed Jammu and Kashmir Liberation Front Afghanistan/South Asia 20050731  
Sheikh Saad al-Ghamdi Sheikh Saad al-Ghamdi al-Qaeda Arabia Saudi Holy Man 20030602  
    A renowned reciter of the Koran. Probably the "Sheikh al-Ghamdi" in the bin Laden tape.
  Sheikh al Ghamdi Learned Elders of Islam Arabia Saudi Holy Man 20011214  
    The Saudi cleric visiting Osama bin Laden in the Pentagon video was named as Sheikh al Ghamdi. Al Ghamdi is a militant cleric from a tribe of the Assir province. Several of the September 11 suicide hijackers were members of his tribe. In the video, al Ghamdi brings news of other clerics, Sheikh al Bahrani and Sheikh Sulayman al Uman. He describes how al Bahrani gave a sermon in his mosque at the same time as the suicide attacks. His speech was videotaped in order to be taken to bin Laden at a later date. Al Ghamdi tells bin Laden that the cleric sends him his "special regards".
Sheikh Saeed Sheikh Saeed al-Qaeda Afghanistan At Large 20011003  
    Al-Qaeda's senior leader in Afghanistan
Sheikh Saeed Siyam Sheikh Saeed Siyam Hamas Israel-Palestine 20040214  
Sheikh Saeed bin Zuair Sheikh Saeed bin Zuair Movement for Islamic Reform Arabia 20030325  
Sheikh Said al-Masri Sheikh Said al-Masri al-Qaeda India-Pakistan 20030115  
Sheikh Said al-Misri Sheikh Said al-Misri al-Qaeda India-Pakistan 20030315  
Sheikh Saleh Sheikh Saleh al-Qaeda Africa: Horn 20020310  
    Ogaden area, prior to 2001
Sheikh Saleh Aal al-Sheikh Sheikh Saleh Aal al-Sheikh Saudi Sheikhs Arabia 20030417  
Sheikh Saleh Al-Fawzan Sheikh Saleh Al-Fawzan Learned Elders of Islam Arabia 20031110  
  Sheikh Saleh Al-Fawzan Senior Council of Clerics Arabia 20031110  
Sheikh Saleh Al-Laheedan Sheikh Saleh Al-Laheedan Saudi Sheikhs Arabia 20031005  
Sheikh Saleh Al-Sheikh Sheikh Saleh Al-Sheikh Al-Haramain Islamic Foundation Arabia 20030516  
Sheikh Saleh Bin Abdulaziz Sheikh Saleh Bin Abdulaziz Saudi Sheikhs Home Front 20031216  
Sheikh Saleh Bin Mohammed Al-Lhaidan Sheikh Saleh Bin Mohammed Al-Lhaidan Saudi Sheikhs Arabia 20031105  
Sheikh Saleh bin Mohammad al-Luhaidan Sheikh Saleh bin Mohammad al-Luhaidan Saudi Sheikhs Arabia 20031023  
Sheikh Saleh bin Soud Al Ali Sheikh Saleh bin Soud Al Ali Saudi Sheikhs Arabia 20040419 Link
Sheikh Saleh ibn Humeid Sheikh Saleh ibn Humeid Learned Elders of Islam Arabia 20020104  
Sheikh Saleh ibn Mohamed Al-Taleb Sheikh Saleh ibn Mohamed Al-Taleb Learned Elders of Islam Arabia 20050702  
Sheikh Salih Al al-Sheikh Sheikh Salih Al al-Sheikh Saudi Princes Arabia 20040121  
Sheikh Salman al-Amri Sheikh Salman al-Amri Saudi Sheikhs Arabia 20030528  
Sheikh Salman ibn Ibrahim Al-Khalifa Sheikh Salman ibn Ibrahim Al-Khalifa Al-Qaeda Arabia 20021108  
Sheikh Saud al-Oteibi Sheikh Saud al-Oteibi al-Qaeda Arabia 20050627  
Sheikh Saud al-Shraim Sheikh Saud al-Shraim Saudi Sheikhs Arabia 20030208  
Sheikh Shaban Ramadhan Mubajje Sheikh Shaban Ramadhan Mubajje Learned Elders of Islam Africa: Subsaharan 20040601 Link
Sheikh Soliman al-Oada Sheikh Soliman al-Oada Learned Elders of Islam Arabia 20030327  
Sheikh Sulayman al Uman Sheikh Sulayman al Uman Learned Elders of Islam Arabia 20011214  
Sheikh Taj el-Din Al Hilaly Sheikh Taj el-Din Al Hilaly Learned Elders of Islam Terror Networks 20021205  
Sheikh Tariq Al Fadhli Sheikh Tariq Al Fadhli Learned Elders of Islam Arabia 20040522 Link
Sheikh Umar Abdul Rahman Sheikh Umar Abdul Rahman Gama Islami Southeast Asia 20021212  
Sheikh Walid al-Haj Sheikh Walid al-Haj Learned Elders of Islam Middle East 20021014  
Sheikh Yehia Ismail Ahmad Sheikh Yehia Ismail Ahmad Learned Elders of Islam Africa North 20020110  
Sheikh Yousef Al-Ayyiri Sheikh Yousef Al-Ayyiri al-Qaeda Afghanistan 20031101  
Sheikh Yousef Al-Shubaily Sheikh Yousef Al-Shubaily Saudi Sheikhs Home Front 20031216  
Sheikh Yousef al-Ayyeri Sheikh Yousef al-Ayyeri Learned Elders of Islam Terror Networks Saudi Deceased Holy Man 20031123  
Sheikh Youssef Al-Qaradwi Sheikh Youssef Al-Qaradwi Learned Elders of Islam International-UN-NGOs 20051124 Link
Sheikh Yusuf Al-Qaradawi Sheikh Yusuf Al-Qaradawi Learned Elders of Islam Terror Networks 20040502 Link
Sheikh Yusuf Mohamed Siad Sheikh Yusuf Mohamed Siad Islamic Courts Africa Horn Somali 20060721 Link
Sheikh Zeit Abu Mussa Sheikh Zeit Abu Mussa al-Qaeda   20020118  
Sheikh al Bahrani Sheikh al Bahrani Learned Elders of Islam Arabia 20011214  
Sheikh al-Qaaid Abdul Aziz Al-Ghamidi Sheikh al-Qaaid Abdul Aziz Al-Ghamidi Chechnya Caucasus 20040418 Link
Sohail Abdul Ghani Sheikh Sohail Abdul Ghani Sheikh Lashkar-e-Taiba India-Pakistan 20060731 Link
Sohail Sheikh Sohail Sheikh Lashkar-e-Taiba India-Pakistan 20060727 Link
Zahid Sheikh Mohammed Zahid Sheikh Mohammed al-Qaeda Home Front: Politix 20050830  
Zaibuddin Sheikh Zaibuddin Sheikh Lashkar-e-Taiba India-Pakistan 20060731 Link

Israel-Palestine-Jordan
IDF soldier seriously hurt in north Gaza Thursday as dozens of Palestinians said killed in strikes
2025-05-24
[IsraelTimes] Military says 98th Division has returned to the enclave, operating in Khan Younis; Hamas-run Gaza civil defense says 52 killed in aerial bombardment in past day

An IDF tank commander was seriously maimed during fighting in the northern Gazoo
...Hellhole adjunct to Israel and Egypt's Sinai Peninsula, inhabited by Gazooks. The place was acquired in the wake of the 1967 War and then presented to Paleostinian control in 2006 by Ariel Sharon, who had entered his dotage. It is currently ruled with a rusty iron fist by Hamas with about the living conditions you'd expect. It periodically attacks the Hated Zionist Entity whenever Iran needs a ruckus created or the hard boyz get bored, getting thumped by the IDF in return. The ruling turbans then wave the bloody shirt and holler loudly about oppression and disproportionate response...
Strip on Thursday as the military pushed ahead with its widened offensive in the enclave.

Gaza’s health authorities said the ongoing campaign had killed more than 50 people over the past day.

The military said that the injured tank commander, who serves in the 401st Armored Brigade’s 52nd Battalion, was evacuated from the Strip to a hospital, and his family was notified.

In a separate incident on Thursday, a soldier was lightly maimed when a grenade went kaboom! during operations in southern Gaza.

Late last week, the military launched its new offensive dubbed Operation Gideon’s Chariots, which Israel says seeks to destroy remaining Hamas
..a contraction of the Arabic words for "frothing at the mouth",...
capabilities and seize and retain Gaza territory while relocating Paleostinians across the enclave.

The military announced on Thursday that the IDF’s elite 98th Division had returned to operating in the Gaza Strip, bringing the number of divisions acting in the enclave to five. The elite formation of paratrooper and commando units — made up of thousands of soldiers — is operating in Khan Younis, the military said, and is working to establish "operational control" and destroy Hamas’s infrastructure in the southern Gaza city, both above and below ground.

The army said that troops of the division had already killed dozens of terror operatives, including in close-quarters combat and through directing Arclight airstrike
...KABOOM!...
s. Some 200 sites used by terror groups had been demolished, including tunnels, the army added.

At the same time as the IDF operated across large parts of southern Gaza, it issued an evacuation warning for Paleostinians in 14 different locations in the enclave’s north.

Among the areas included in the evacuation zone were Sheikh Zayed, Salatin, Beit Lahiya, and Jabaliya.

In a post on X, the IDF’s Arabic-language front man, Col. Avichay Adraee, warned that the military was operating "with great force" in these areas and that they were considered "dangerous combat zones."

A map posted alongside the warning showed a swath of territory marked in red.

The army had issued a similar evacuation call for northern Gaza late Wednesday following rocket fire on southern Israel.

The vast majority of Gaza’s 2.4 million have been displaced at least once during the war.

Hundreds of people have been reported dead across the Strip since the start of the new Israeli offensive, and on Thursday evening, the Hamas-run civil defense agency said that 52 people had been killed in the past day, and dozens more had been injured. The figures, which do not differentiate between civilians and button men, could not be verified.

Israel says it only targets terror groups and makes efforts to minimize harm to civilians.

AFP footage of northern Gaza showed numerous plumes of smoke rising from the area over the course of the afternoon.

Earlier on Thursday, the Hamas-run Gaza health ministry said a tank shell hit a medicine warehouse inside al-Awda Hospital in Beit Lahiya, on the northern edge of the enclave, and set it ablaze.

Videos taken by a health official at al-Awda showed walls blown away and thick black smoke billowing over wreckage.

While rescue workers were trying to extinguish the fire, medics said tanks had been stationed outside the hospital, effectively blocking access to it.

Hospital director Mohammed Salha said that the civil defense agency had spent three hours trying to contain the fires and failed.
Link


Africa Horn
Puntland Launches Major Offensive Against ISIS in Cal-Miskaad Mountains
2025-05-21
[ShabelleMedia] Puntland
...a region in northeastern Somalia, centered on Garowe in the Nugaal province. Its leaders declared the territory an autonomous state in 1998. Puntland and the equally autonomous Somaliland seem to have avoided the clan rivalries and warlordism that have typified the rest of Somalia, which puts both places high on the list for Islamic subversion...
regional forces have launched a major military operation targeting ISIS turbans hiding in the rugged Cal-Miskaad mountain range in northeastern Somalia, officials said on Tuesday.

The offensive, described as intense and ongoing, aims to dislodge the group from strategic positions it has used for years as a base of operations. Security sources report that Puntland forces have already regained control of several key areas previously held by the bad boys.

Among those killed in the recent fighting is Ahmed Muse Said, a senior ISIS figure responsible for coordinating the arrival of imported muscle into Somalia, according to local officials.

"The operation is still underway and is focused on eliminating ISIS presence in the remote mountainous areas where they continue to hide," said Abdifatah Abdinuur, Minister of State at the Puntland Presidency. "We are making significant progress and will not stop until they are fully defeated."

Puntland has been engaged in a sustained campaign against ISIS elements operating in the region, particularly in Bari province. While the group remains significantly smaller than al-Shabaab
... the personification of Somali state failure...
, it has continued to pose a threat through ambushes and assassinations.

The Puntland Defense Forces have steadily advanced in recent days, pushing ISIS fighters further into retreat. Officials say the group has lost several of its key hideouts and is on the defensive.

The offensive marks the latest phase in Puntland’s broader security effort to ensure stability in the region and dismantle holy warrior networks.

Fresh details emerge about ISIS militant killed in Puntland

[Garowe] Ahmed Muse Said, the ISIS militants coordinator killed in Cal-Miskaad mountains, Tuesday, was a well-connected individual who was also well-travelled across the world, thus his links with several foreign fighters in Puntland state.

When Operation Lightning started late last year, Puntland forces, along with foreign military teams, established that most of the fighters are 'imported' from foreign countries, with their passports recovered in various caves which have been seized.

And multiple sources revealed that Said, who was killed last week, frequently travelled abroad - to Ethiopia, Oman and the UAE. The three countries have close ties with Puntland, with the United Arab Emirates providing aerial surveillance throughout the campaign against ISIS.

Brigadier General Ahmed Abdullahi Sheikh, the commander of Operation Lightning, termed him a 'high-value individual (HVI)' while confirming his identity. He was one of the most sought-after terrorists.

"This operation underscores the unwavering commitment to combating terrorism and ensuring regional security. The successful elimination of this key figure represents a substantial blow to Daesh's operational capabilities and its ability to conduct destabilising activities," General Sheikh said.

"We commend the exceptional professionalism, dedication, and precision demonstrated by all personnel involved in the critical mission. Their efforts are a testament to the resolve in the face of terrorist threats," he added.

He said no further details of the time, date, or specific aspects of the operation will be disclosed at this time. The connection with foreign countries, specifically, could worry Puntland, which closely works with Somalia’s international partners.

Officials are keen to unearth his links to the UAE, Oman and Ethiopia, which could aid in the fight against ISIS militants. In southern regions, the federal government of Somalia, which has not come out clearly to support Puntland’s stance against ISIS, is tackling Al-Shabaab militants.
Related:
Puntland: 2025-05-17 Funding Cuts, Leadership Changes Hamper Somali Army’s Fight Against Al-Shabaab
Puntland: 2025-05-13 Good Morning
Puntland: 2025-05-13 U.S. AFRICOM Conducts Airstrike on ISIS Target in Somalia’s Puntland
Related:
Cal-Miskaad mountain range: 2025-04-05 US Africa Command confirms defensive airstrike against ISIS in Somalia
Related:
Operation Lightning: 2025-03-12 UAE Airstrikes Target ISIS Bases in Somalia’s Puntland
Operation Lightning: 2025-03-11 ISIS sniper training camp seized in Somalia's Puntland
Operation Lightning: 2025-03-05 Somalia: Puntland forces seize ISIS headquarters in mountains
Link


Africa Horn
Faces Behind Widespread Fraud and Human Trafficking Network Exposed in Somalia
2025-05-20
[ShabelleMedia] An extensive criminal network involving Somali nationals has been uncovered following detailed investigations by government authorities. The inquiry has revealed years of involvement in fraudulent schemes and human trafficking operations spanning Europa
...the land mass occupying the space between the English Channel and the Urals, also known as Moslem Lebensraum...
and North America.

Authorities have identified Mohammed Osman Haji Ali, Hamdi Abdulkadir Osman and Mohamud Hassan Ali as the central figures behind the operation. The trio reportedly operated under various false identities, at times presenting themselves as government officials, civil society representatives, think tank researchers or labour experts. Their objective, according to officials, was to infiltrate government institutions and defraud international organizations, including the United Nations
...an organization originally established to war on dictatorships which was promptly infiltrated by dictatorships and is now held in thrall to dictatorships...
Senior officials within the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, speaking on condition of anonymity
... for fear of being murdered...
due to the sensitivity of ongoing investigations, confirmed that both Mohammed Osman and Hamdi Abdulkadir recently returned to Somalia from Canada and Sweden, respectively. They submitted to the Ministry what appeared to be a proposal for a labour project, allegedly linked to Ottoman Turkish trade unions and the Ottoman Turkish Ministry of Labour, seeking to solicit millions of US dollars from The Sick Man of Europe Turkey
...the only place on the face of the earth that misses the Ottoman Empire...
The proposal was initially submitted to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs but was later referred to the Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs for follow-up due to its relevance to labour issues. However,
some people are alive only because it's illegal to kill them...
officials at the Labour Ministry swiftly identified the proposal as fraudulent, exposing it as an attempt to exploit ministerial structures to access foreign funding under false pretences.

Following the collapse of the scheme, Mohammed Osman reportedly shifted his focus to human trafficking. According to official sources, he re-engaged Mohamud Hassan Ali, who had previously served as Director of the Minister’s Office under Minister Abdiwali Ibrahim Sheikh Mudey at the Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs. Mohamud reminded Osman of their earlier operations in which individuals had been trafficked to Switzerland
...home of the Helvetians, famous for cheese, watches, yodeling, and William Tell...
using forged documents, official stamps and falsified ministerial signatures.

Authorities confirmed that the renewed trafficking scheme was orchestrated by both Mohammed Osman and Mohamud Hassan. The operation involved collecting between $15,000 and $19,000 per person to be smuggled into Europe during 2025. To facilitate the plan, Hamdi Abdulkadir was tasked with pressuring the government, particularly the Ministry of Labour, to endorse the individuals they intended to present as part of a national delegation to Switzerland. Hamdi’s familial connection to a senior government official was repeatedly exploited to influence official decisions and lend legitimacy to the operation. However,
some people are alive only because it's illegal to kill them...
the Labour Ministry rejected the request outright, refusing to approve the inclusion of individuals falsely presented as "labour representatives" intended for human trafficking.

A senior government official stated:

"Hamdi Abdulkadir Osman does not work with our government. Yes, she has a relative in the office, but that does not give her the authority to interfere with how government business is conducted. Her actions constitute criminal misrepresentation. She is putting the integrity of public institutions at risk by seeking to legitimise human trafficking."

Investigators discovered that this was not the first time the trio had been involved in smuggling operations. In 2016, Mohamud Hassan Ali was interrogated by Swiss authorities on suspicion of human trafficking but was not detained after smuggling three individuals into Switzerland. These individuals later absconded to the Netherlands, Sweden and Norway, taking advantage of free movement within the Schengen Area. Fearing arrest, Mohamud fled and applied for asylum elsewhere in Europe. In 2018, facing a similar risk of apprehension, Mohammed Osman travelled to the United States, crossed into Canada and claimed asylum in Winnipeg, believing that applying for asylum in Europe would increase the likelihood of arrest.

Despite their asylum applications, both Mohamud and Mohammed reportedly continued their operations remotely through proxies. In 2019, Mohammed Osman used Ahmed Hassan Omar to facilitate the trafficking of Abdilkadir Awil Mohamud into Switzerland, reportedly for a payment of $20,000. Somali authorities, upon discovering the scheme, informed Swiss immigration officials. This led to the denial of a visa for Abdilkadir. Following the failed attempt
...Curses! Foiled again!...
, Ahmed Hassan Omar travelled alone to Switzerland, absconded and later applied for asylum in La Belle France. He was eventually deported after fingerprint records in the Schengen database revealed his links to smuggling networks and his asylum application was rejected.

According to witnesses interviewed, the group’s local associate in Mogadishu, Abdisalam Yarow, had been handpicked by Mohammed Osman, while he remains in Canada. He was later exposed and discredited, rendering him irrelevant to the operation. Mohammed Osman then severed ties with Tarow and relied solely on Hamdi Abdulkadir as the new public face of the operation. Hamdi subsequently approached Swedish trade unions and the International Labour Organization (ILO), claiming to be a trade union representative. Her attempts were quickly flagged as dubious and her communications were blocked.

Similarly, Mohammed Osman attempted to contact the Canadian Labour Congress from Winnipeg. Officials there dismissed his approach after identifying him as an impostor posing as a Somali trade unionist. Both the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC) and ITUC-Africa, along with the ILO, confirmed that Mohammed Osman, Ahmed Hassan Omar and Abdisalam Yarow had been placed on a no-contact list following verification of falsified claims, impersonation and forged credentials.

Reliable sources confirmed that Swiss authorities, already familiar with the criminal activities of Mohammed Osman and Mohamud Hassan, have been alerted once again. Reports indicate that Mohammed, Mohamud and Hamdi had planned to use foreign passports and fraudulent documentation to smuggle individuals through Swiss borders in late May or early June 2025.

According to officials, during an earlier phase of their operations between 2014 and 2016, Mohammed Osman and Mohamud Hassan exploited Mohamud’s position within the Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs under Minister Abdiwali Ibrahim Sheikh Mudey to produce official-looking documents that enabled individuals to enter Europe. In one documented case, a forged invitation letter and ministry seal were used to secure entry for individuals who later absconded in Europe.

Recent attempts to revive these activities have failed due to enhanced scrutiny and stronger coordination between Somali ministries and international institutions. The group’s fraudulent association with the so-called Somali Congress of Trade Unions, a fabricated entity created to gain international legitimacy, was also exposed. An individual who had previously worked with Mohammed Osman confirmed that the entity was entirely fictitious. International organizations, including the ILO and ITUC, have since blacklisted the names and email addresses of those involved.

Sources within the Somali government insisted that they are committed to combating human trafficking. Government ministries have been formally alerted and instructed to remain vigilant against criminal actors attempting to exploit national institutions and international partnerships.

Investigations into Mohammed Osman Haji Ali, Hamdi Abdulkadir Osman and Mohamud Hassan Ali are ongoing. Shabelle Media Network has reviewed documentation confirming that their names have been forwarded to Swiss criminal investigation authorities for appropriate legal action in relation to impersonation, fraud and trafficking offences.

In the past three months alone, Somalia’s Immigration and Citizenship Agency (ICA) has arrested 21 individuals involved in human trafficking to the United Kingdom and European Union
...the successor to the Holy Roman Empire, only without the Hapsburgs and the nifty uniforms and the dancing...
territories. Several suspects are now being pursued through international channels, with extradition requests underway to bring those hiding in Europe to justice.
Link


Africa Horn
Funding Cuts, Leadership Changes Hamper Somali Army’s Fight Against Al-Shabaab
2025-05-17
[Garowe] Over the last few weeks, the Somali National Army (SNA) has failed to fully take control of various frontlines. The loss of Adan Yabaal perhaps gives a clearer indication of a weak force struggling to stamp authority despite massive investment by the international partners in the force.

Now, racing against time and with key financiers led by the US contemplating a drastic cut of the budget for mission peacekeepers and the local forces, the Somali National Army is under pressure to take over security responsibilities, not until it shows its defence capabilities and mission readiness attitude.

Antonio Guiterres, the United Nations
...the Oyster Bay money pit...
Secretary General, predicts that the resources for payment of soldiers are first diminishing, with no guarantee that the US and other multinational funders would be committed to the mission. There is no indication that stability could be realised in Somalia.

Recently, the Troops Contributing Countries met in Kampala, Uganda and agreed to have at least 8,000 more soldiers dispatched to Somalia — at the time, the UN is keeping downsize the force and invest in local forces ahead of exit. This even draws uncertainties.

Samira Gaid, a security analyst, says misplaced political imperatives should be blamed for SNA inefficiencies, with politicians failing to give the military ample time to organise operations for effective execution.

"The anti-AS operations in 2022, which began spontaneously, were initially led by communities, but it was expected that the offensives would naturally transition to military leadership," she says. "Unfortunately, that never came to pass; the military was sidestepped, and the war effort was led at the highest levels, with objectives determined and targets set by politicians for political ends—without adequate planning or qualified military strategy."

"Many other factors also came into play: logistical challenges, changes in security leadership at critical times, and the use of hastily trained forces rather than older, more knowledgeable units, among others," Samira Gaid further says.

Asked if there is a possibility of SNA troops taking security responsibilities shortly, Samira says 'I cannot tell' while citing failures of the military in various frontlines, while insisting that the force has been degraded as opposed to five years ago when there was a plan.

Changes in military leadership under Hassan Sheikh Mohamud have also impacted the execution and strategy, further diminishing the SNA's chances. A few months ago, Hassan Sheikh sacked General Odowaa Yusuf Rage, but only to reinstate him a few weeks ago following challenges on the frontlines.

But despite the challenges, the government has also invested in religious scholars for the anti-radicalisation mission, besides blocking sources of finance for the group, starving them significantly. Websites and social media sites used for propaganda have been locked, too.

Another tussle is al-Shabaab
... Somalia's version of the Taliban, functioning as an arm of al-Qaeda...
's change of strategy — the group is keen to endear itself to the civilians by pretending to offer alternative leadership, further making it harder for the government and the military to counter them. As a result, civilians in some sections are embracing al-Shabaab leadership.

"They appeared less punitive than in previous campaigns against known and suspected collaborators of the Somali government and security forces, with Adan Yabaal being the only exception. They reportedly made calculated concessions, such as allowing clans to retain arms and offering "tax" breaks, she says.

"This shift appeared aimed at regaining the trust of communities—or at least reducing resistance to their presence. We also didn’t see the gory images and videos of beheadings of captured security personnel that they had previously circulated. All in all, they seemed to have shifted their political approach, blending in co-option as a means of regaining access."

The administration of Hassan Sheikh is blamed for focusing too much on political situations in Somalia instead of diverting attention to the al-Shabaab war. Whether or not the war would be waged militarily, the general strategic approach was mutilated, and there is a need for a deliberate change in strategy.

Shabelle Media’s take on the situation:
Somalia Faces Setback in Anti-Al-Shabaab Offensive Amid Political Distractions

Somalia’s federal government has come under criticism for a slowdown in its military offensive against the Al-Qaeda-linked Al-Shabaab militant group, following the recapture of Aadan Yabaal town in Middle Shabelle region by Somali National Army (SNA) forces in April 2025.

According to sources cited by Shabelle Media, planned follow-up operations against the insurgent group have stalled as the government in Villa Somalia becomes increasingly preoccupied with political maneuvering and preparations for upcoming national elections.

The slowdown comes amid reports that international support—particularly from the United States, which has played a key role in backing Somalia’s counter-insurgency efforts—has diminished in recent months, affecting both funding and logistical assistance.

In addition, the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), which succeeded ATMIS, is reportedly facing significant financial constraints. The mission has yet to secure adequate funding necessary for sustained peacekeeping and military support operations across the country.

The setback comes at a critical time, as Al-Shabaab has intensified its attacks on military bases and recently liberated areas, raising fears among civilians and international observers about a possible resurgence.

Security analysts are urging a rapid reassessment of Somalia’s anti-insurgency strategy, stressing the need for consistent political commitment, international backing, and operational funding to prevent militants from regaining lost ground.
Related:
Aadan Yabaal: 2025-05-06 U.S. AFRICOM Airstrike Targets ISIS Militants in Puntland, Says Somali Defence Ministry
Aadan Yabaal: 2025-04-25 Al-Shabaab Launches Dawn Attack on Somali Military Base in War-Gaadhi
Aadan Yabaal: 2025-04-24 Somali Forces, Militias Advance on Aboorey Amid Clashes with Al-Shabaab
Related:
Middle Shabelle: 2025-05-15 Al-Shabaab Launches Surprise Attack on Military Base in El-Wak town, Gedo
Middle Shabelle: 2025-05-02 Clan Fighters Strike Al-Shabaab in Central Somalia, Kill Militants and Seize Weapons
Middle Shabelle: 2025-05-02 Somalia banks on Arab League in Al-Shabaab war
Link


Arabia
White House: Deals that Trump signed with Qatar will ‘generate at least $1.2 trillion’
2025-05-15
[IsraelTimes] Agreements signed by US President Donald Trump and Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani will “generate an economic exchange worth at least $1.2 trillion,” the White House says in a fact sheet summarizing some of the deals’ details.

The agreements include a $96 billion deal with Qatar Airways to buy up to 210 Boeing 787 Dreamliner and 777X airplanes with GE Aerospace engines, the fact sheet says. They also include a statement of intent that could lead to $38 billion in investments at Qatar’s Al Udeid Air Base and other air defense and maritime security capabilities, it says.
Link


Syria-Lebanon-Iran
Baabda says Qassem''s latest stances ''realistic''
2025-05-15
[NAHARNET] The latest stances of Hezbollah chief Sheikh Naim Qassem
... the Grand Vizier of the Hezbullies...
were ''realistic,'' Lebanese Presidency sources said.

''Every now and then some Hezbollah officials issue some stances that do not reflect this pragmatism, but what's certain is that the more they show cooperation, the more things become easier to implement,'' the sources told Asharq al-Awsat newspaper.

''The president had repeatedly talked about Hezbollah's cooperation as to the withdrawal of arms south of the Litani River and Qassem's remarks reflect a reassuring atmosphere in terms of the implementation of Resolution 1701 and what stemmed from it in the agreement reached in November 2024 on which Hezbollah agreed,'' the sources added.

As for Qassem's warnings that some want to isolate Hezbollah, the sources said: ''No one wants to isolate them and ignoring them is out of the question. Hezbollah is represented in parliament and government and talking about isolation is not logical.''
Link


Africa Horn
Sudan Accuses Puntland of Facilitating Military Support to RSF via Bosaso Airport
2025-05-12
[ShabelleMedia] Sudan
...a Moslem country located in the Horn of Africa. It is noted for its affinity for rule by ex- or current generals, its holy men, and for the oppression of the native Afro population by its Arab conquerors. South Sudan, populated mostly by the natives, split off from Sudan proper, which left North and South Darfur to be oppressed by the guys with turbans...
’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has officially lodged a complaint with the Federal Government of Somalia, accusing Puntland
...a region in northeastern Somalia, centered on Garowe in the Nugaal province. Its leaders declared the territory an autonomous state in 1998. Puntland and the equally autonomous Somaliland seem to have avoided the clan rivalries and warlordism that have typified the rest of Somalia, which puts both places high on the list for Islamic subversion...
’s regional administration of using Bosaso Airport as a hub for transporting mercenaries and military supplies to Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces (RSF).

In a formal letter, Khartoum claims that the airport has become a strategic point for the movement of fighters and arms, allegedly supporting the RSF, a paramilitary group that has been engaged in a violent mostly peaceful conflict with Sudan’s national army since the collapse of the country’s power-sharing agreement in 2023.

Sudan’s government argues that these operations are being carried out covertly and accuses Puntland authorities of either facilitating or overlooking the illicit activities. The RSF, led by General Mohammed Hamdan Dagalo (Hemedti), is battling for control of Sudan, causing widespread instability and displacement.

Somali officials have yet to publicly comment on the complaint, though diplomatic sources in Mogadishu suggest the government is actively investigating the allegations through its security and intelligence agencies. No response has been received from Puntland officials regarding the claims.

The complaint comes amid rising regional tensions, with concerns that Sudan’s ongoing conflict may have broader implications for neighboring countries. The Somali government, which has long struggled with its own security challenges, faces mounting pressure to clarify its position on the war in Sudan and prevent its territory from being used to fuel the conflict.

The matter is expected to be addressed in upcoming cabinet discussions in Somalia, with President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Foreign Minister Ahmed Moallim Fiqi likely to engage in talks on how to resolve the issue diplomatically.
Link


Israel-Palestine-Jordan
Former envoy to US: Netanyahu ‘unwilling to pay the price’ for Saudi normalization; Saudis demand peace in Gaza and two-state solution
2025-05-10
PM’s aide Dermer reportedly meets Trump in Washington for discussions on Iran ahead of fresh nuclear talks and Gaza, where IDF is set to launch major op
Bibi Netanyahu is a wily and experienced negotiator. One assumes that if he thinks the price is too high, it likely is.

Saudi crown prince reportedly reassured Abbas deputy that Riyadh won’t ink deal with Israel absent end to war, two-state path
But Bibi and almost all Israelis have concluded that the two state path is not possible. So there’s the hang up.
[IsraelTimes] Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman

...Crown Prince and modernizer of Saudi Arabia as of 2016. The Turks hate him, so he must be all right, despite the occasional brutal murder of Qatar-owned journalists...
reaffirmed to the recently appointed vice chairman of the Paleostine Liberation Organization’s Executive Committee, Hussein al-Sheikh, during a meeting this week that Riyadh will not agree to normalize relations with Israel until the war in Gazoo
...Hellhole adjunct to Israel and Egypt's Sinai Peninsula, inhabited by Gazooks. The place was acquired in the wake of the 1967 War and then presented to Paleostinian control in 2006 by Ariel Sharon, who had entered his dotage. It is currently ruled with a rusty iron fist by Hamas with about the living conditions you'd expect. It periodically attacks the Hated Zionist Entity whenever Iran needs a ruckus created or the hard boyz get bored, getting thumped by the IDF in return. The ruling turbans then wave the bloody shirt and holler loudly about oppression and disproportionate response...
ends and a pathway toward the establishment of a Paleostinian state has been established, Sky News Arabia reports, citing an unnamed Paleostinian source.

The Paleostinian source also reveals that Saudi Arabia
...a kingdom taking up the bulk of the Arabian peninsula, largely made up of sand and oil rigs. Its primary economic activity involves exporting oil and soaking Islamic rubes on the annual haj pilgrimage. The country supports a large number of princes in whatcha might call princely splendor. Formerly dictatorial and steeped in Olde Tyme Religion, deferring to Salafist holy men on all issues, it has now done a 180 and is making a serious effort to modernize, so as not to be left in the sand by its Gulf Arab neighbors. The holy men have been shoved to the background and the nation is now still dictatorial but somewhat rational. That doesn't make them trustworthy, but it's a start...
will resume financial aid to the Paleostinian Authority and will announce the decision during an annual summit of Arab leaders that will be held later this month in Baghdad.

Separately, the Kan public broadcaster reports that Riyadh has sent messages to the Trump administration warning the US president against making any surprise announcements during his trip to the region next week that might embarrass the kingdom.

Kan cited a senior Arab official who said the message was particularly regarding potential announcements by Trump regarding Saudi-Israel normalization, which they have repeatedly insisted will not be advanced absent an end to the Gaza war and a political horizon for the Paleostinians.
Link


India-Pakistan
Gandapur stresses talks not off table, distances PTI from militants
2025-05-07
[GEO.TV] Distancing himself from the 'enemies of the state', Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur stressed on Tuesday that neither he nor Pakistain Tehrik-e-Insaf
...a political party in Pakistan. PTI was founded by former Pakistani cricket captain and philanthropist Imran Khan. The party's slogan is Justice, Humanity and Self Esteem, each of which is open to widely divergent interpretations....
(PTI) founder Imran Khan
...aka The Great Khan, who ain't the sharpest bulb on the national tree...
ever ruled out talks with the establishment.

"Imran Khan has always talked about negotiations," the CM said while addressing a seminar, adding that no talks whatsoever were currently underway but hinted it may take time before the next round of parleys.

These remarks contrast with PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan's statement last month that the placed in durance vile
Drop the rosco, Muggsy, or you're one with the ages!
party founder had not authorised any leader to engage in talks with the establishment.

Gohar said this after PTI leader Azam Swati claimed receiving Khan's go-ahead to contact the establishment to resolve political issues for bringing political stability to the country, indicating the party is not on the same page.

In another damage-control bid in April, party mouthpiece Sheikh Waqas Akram clarified that ex-PM Khan had never closed the door on negotiations, adding that talks could only be held in the national interest and must cover core issues, including the supremacy of law and the Constitution.
Related:
Ali Amin Gandapur 04/23/2025 KP CM Gandapur's non-bailable arrest warrants issued in police attack case
Ali Amin Gandapur 03/03/2025 KP CM, Afghan diplomat stress reopening of Torkham border amid Ramadan
Ali Amin Gandapur 12/08/2024 Rival Kurram tribes agree to ''indefinite ceasefire'' after deadly clashes

Related:
Imran Khan 04/27/2025 Two soldiers martyred, 15 terrorists killed in three KP operations
Imran Khan 04/10/2025 Imran Khan backs call to make Pakistan ''hard state''
Imran Khan 02/27/2025 China's $240 Million Airport in Terror-Plagued Pakistan Region Entirely Deserted

Related:
Gohar Ali Khan 04/10/2025 Imran Khan backs call to make Pakistan ''hard state''
Gohar Ali Khan 09/23/2024 People reject 'politics of anarchy'', endorse govt''s sound economic policies: PM
Gohar Ali Khan 07/21/2024 JUI-F chief claims PTI ready to step down from assemblies, dissolve KP legislature


Related:
Azam Swati 05/23/2024 Attackers wanted to 'slit my throat', says PTI's Raoof Hasan
Azam Swati 03/10/2024  Zardari gets elected as president for historic second time with overwhelming majority
Azam Swati 08/27/2023 PTI leaders face another case over anti-state rhetoric


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Syria-Lebanon-Iran
Who are the Middle East's Druze religious community?
2025-05-07
[NAHARNET] The Druze are a prominent religious community of more than a million people spread mainly across Syria, Leb
...The Lebs maintain a precarious sectarian balance among Shiites, Sunnis, and about a dozen flavors of Christians, plus Armenians, Georgians, and who knows what else?...
and Israel, who for centuries have sought to preserve a distinct identity.

In Syria, Druze fighters recently clashed with forces loyal to the country's new Islamist rulers, highlighting the struggles they and other minority groups have faced with shifts in regional power dynamics.

"The Druze are a kind of an ultra-tribe which transcends space and geography," said Makram Rabah, assistant professor of history at the American University of Beirut.

Despite being a minority in a majority Sunni Moslem region, the Middle East's Druze have played "a very important role", Rabah said.

Here is a look at the community:

- RELIGION AND CUSTOMS -
The Druze emerged in Egypt in the early 11th century as a branch of the Ismaili sect of Shiite Islam.

They are monotheistic and call themselves "muwahhidun", or unitarians.

The sect is highly secretive and includes mystical elements like reincarnation.

It does not allow new converts and marriage outside the community is strongly discouraged.

A source familiar with Druze rituals, requesting anonymity to discuss matters considered sensitive, said the faith's emergence was influenced by other religious and philosophical teachings, including those of Greek philosopher Plato.

Some Druze religious occasions align with those of other Islamic sects.

Traditional Druze garb is black, with men wearing white caps or turbans and women covering their heads and part of their faces with a flowing white scarf.

- WHERE ARE THEY? -
"The Druze don't really recognize borders," Rabah said.

"You have marriages and you have standing relationships between the Druze across the region," he said, adding that "holy men play a very important role in keeping this relationship alive."

Before Syria's civil war erupted in 2011, the community was estimated at around 700,000 people.

According to "The Druze Faith" by historian Sami Makarem, Druze have been migrating to southern Syria since the 16th century, to an area now known as Jabal al-Druze, meaning Druze Mountain, in Sweida province.

Syria's Druze are now mainly concentrated in their Sweida heartland, as well as nearby Quneitra province, with smaller pockets in the Damascus suburbs, notably Jaramana and Sahnaya, which recently saw sectarian violence.

In Lebanon, an estimated 200,000 Druze are concentrated in the mountainous center as well as in the south near Israel and Syria.

In Israel, some 153,000 Druze are Israeli citizens, living mainly in the north. Unlike other Arab Israelis, Druze serve in the Israeli army.

In the Israeli-annexed Syrian Golan Heights, more than 22,000 Druze hold permanent resident status. Only around 1,600 have become Israeli citizens, while others remain attached to their Syrian identity.

Israel seized much of the Golan from Syria in 1967, annexing the area in 1981 in a move largely unrecognized internationally. The move separated extended families, though Druze in the annexed Golan were often able to cross into Syria to study, attend weddings or sell produce.
[AnNahar] Some Druze from southern Syria also settled in neighboring Jordan, where the community is estimated at 15,000 to 20,000.

Two delegations of Syrian Druze holy men have made pilgrimages to a holy site in Israel this year, even though the two countries are technically at war with each other.

Outside the Middle East, Druze have migrated to regions including the Americas and Australia.

Well-known Druze include prominent human rights
...not to be confused with individual rights, mind you...
lawyer Amal Alamuddin Clooney and Jordanian Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi.

- LEADING ROLE -
Despite their minority status, Druze "have filled an important and sometimes a leading role in the political and social life" of the Middle East, according to historian Makarem.

In Syria, Druze Sultan Pasha al-Atrash led a nationalist revolt against the French mandatory power which had established a Druze statelet in southern Syria during the 1920s and 1930s.

In Lebanon, Druze leader Kamal Jumblat played a key role in politics from the 1950s until his 1977 liquidation, and his son Walid is a powerful politician.

Jumblat last month urged Syria's Druze to reject "Israeli interference", after Israel warned the Islamist authorities who ousted president Bashir Pencilneck al-Assad
Light of the Alawites...
against harming the minority.

Druze leaders have declared their loyalty to a united Syria, though some have called for international protection following recent sectarian violence.

Israeli Druze spiritual leader Sheikh Mowafaq Tarif has urged Israel to protect Syria's Druze.

Rabah said there was a Druze "power struggle across three states", adding that he believes Syria's community does not aspire to statehood.

The Druze largely stayed on the sidelines of Syria's war after it erupted in 2011, focusing on defending their heartland.

Most Druze gangs have yet to reach a settlement with the new authorities.
Related:
Sweida: 2025-05-04 IDF says it is ready to protect Druze villages from Syria
Sweida: 2025-04-30 At least three killed in clash between soldiers and Druze militants in Damascus
Sweida: 2025-03-15 New chapter’: Syrian Druze clerics enter Israel for first pilgrimage since 1948
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Golan Heights: 2025-05-05 Sheikhs' Calls: Why Türkiye Closed Skies to Israeli Aircraft
Golan Heights: 2025-05-03 20 major airstrikes were carried out in Syria by the Israeli Air Force
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Ayman Safadi 02/03/2025 Trump invites Jordan’s Abdullah to White House while pushing him to take in Gazans

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Kamal Jumblat 03/21/2017 Lebanon’s Walid Jumblatt affirms son as political heir

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Walid Jumblat 03/04/2025 'David's Corridor': What Role Do the Druze Play in Israel's Plans to Dismember Syria

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Mowafaq Tarif 06/22/2023 More than 50 citizens of occupied Golan injured in an attack on them by Israel UPDATE: ...when Druze riot over wind turbines
Mowafaq Tarif 11/05/2017 IDF denies involvement in Syrian suicide attack, vows to protect Druze

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Druze 05/05/2025 21 Syrians, including child with head injury, treated at northern Israel hospital since Thursday

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Syria-Lebanon-Iran
'Al-Sharaa's grip is weak': IDF doubts Syria's control as Golan buffer zone expand
2025-05-06
[Ynet] An Israeli paratrooper from the 202nd Battalion swings open the yellow gate at the Quneitra crossing, the only passage point between Israel and Syria. He steps forward without a helmet—a sign of the relatively low threat level. Eight yards ahead, a fellow soldier opens the inner gray gate with the press of a button.

Once a symbol of Syrian sovereignty, the crossing has faded. The Syrian flag that flew above the checkpoint just months ago is now tattered, and a portrait of Hafez al-Assad—the late president who negotiated a 1974 ceasefire with Israel—lies in fragments across the abandoned border post.

Roughly 50 miles east, Israeli helicopters recently delivered supplies to Druze communities in As-Suwayda, and more than 20 wounded Druze have crossed into Israel for treatment. But at the border, the gunfire remains distant for now.

Six months after Israeli forces entered the Syrian side of the Golan Heights without a fight, the Israel Defense Forces has tripled its deployment in the area. After an initial period of calm, two diverging realities have taken shape.

In the north, about 12 to 18 miles from the border, the IDF has permitted the interim Syrian government led by Ahmad al-Sharaa to deploy local police in villages such as Khan Arnabeh, Jubata al-Khashab, and New Quneitra. The move has brought stability, and Israeli soldiers now pass through these communities en route to nine new IDF outposts constructed in Syrian territory.

But in the south, near the road to Daraa, tensions are rising. The more religiously conservative Sunni population, many of whom supported the al-Qaida-linked Jabhat al-Nusra
...formally Jabhat an-Nusrah li-Ahli al-Sham (Support Front for the People of the Levant), also known as al-Qaeda in the Levant. They aim to establish a pan-Arab caliphate. Not the same one as the Islamic State, though .. ...
…most recently called Hayat Tahrir al Sham until they conquered Bashir al Assad’s Syria…
during Syria’s civil war, has resisted disarmament. Two weeks ago, militants in the town of Nawa opened fire on Israeli paratroopers from the 890th Battalion using heavy machine guns from balconies. The soldiers escaped injury.

"We called in Zik drones and eliminated seven militants who posed an immediate threat," said a senior commander. "We could have neutralized 100, but we chose restraint. We didn’t want to go there."

Farther east, near the old Syrian military ridgelines 11 to 12 miles from the border, Israeli forces have chosen not to take control. The IDF occasionally fires warning shots at unidentified figures approaching the abandoned posts. Al-Sharaa’s forces are not allowed to operate in this area, despite outreach from Damascus.

"His regime is still fragile and lacks real control over much of Syria," a senior Israeli officer said. "The Alawite coast remains loyal to Assad, Turkish and Kurdish forces dominate the north, and Bedouin tribes hold sway in the southeast. This southwestern corner is not a high priority for Damascus."

Israeli defense officials recently met with Western diplomats who visited Damascus to assess al-Sharaa’s control. "You walk into government buildings and find 50 empty offices," one European official said. "Only three or four rooms are actually staffed."

Israeli intelligence estimates that al-Sharaa commands around 60,000 lightly armed fighters, most operating from pickup trucks. The IDF believes Turkey is interested in helping establish a formal army under al-Sharaa but has held back due to financial concerns, especially after Israeli operations destroyed major Assad-era weapons depots.
Turkey has been on the brink of financial collapse since the 1990s, despite infusions of cash from various sources and donors. Setting up and training a proper army from scratch is an expensive proposition — especially if Israel chooses to be annoyed.
Iranian forces have withdrawn from the Syrian Golan—a shift Israel welcomed—while Russia still maintains a limited military presence along the coast and in the northeastern city of Qamishli. Israeli officials have also met with Turkish counterparts to discuss coordination.

The IDF has quietly strengthened ties with Druze leaders on both sides of the border. Last month, senior officers met with some 60 Druze sheikhs from Israel and Syria. A proposal to allow Syrian Druze to work in the Israeli Golan has stalled, reportedly due to bureaucratic and insurance issues.

On the ground, Israeli soldiers are adjusting to the new reality. In calmer northern areas, most now travel by vehicle, often without helmets. Still, a fast-moving convoy of pickup trucks from deep inside Syria could reach Kibbutz Ein Zivan in just five minutes by air, warned Lt. Col. G., operations officer for the IDF’s Golan Division.

From the roof of the old Quneitra police station—a grim Soviet-style relic—Israeli soldiers now overlook new bases, reinforced shelters, and permanent infrastructure built at a cost of tens of millions of shekels. Food is trucked in from kitchens on the Israeli side of the border.

At the edge of the frontier, IDF engineers are constructing a 56-mile defensive line of trenches and embankments. About 20 percent of the project is complete. During a patrol near the Syrian village of Qahtania, soldiers encountered three smiling children. One wore a shirt bearing symbols of "New Syria" and the image of Ahmad al-Sharaa.

Nearby, three motorcycles seized from Syrians who approached too close to Israeli positions are parked outside an outpost flying the red flags of the Paratroopers Brigade. The riders may have been scouting troop movements.

"Intelligence remains a challenge," said Lt. Col. G. "We make one or two arrests a month, but if we get actionable intel, we act immediately—with arrests or force, if needed."

Related:
Quneitra: 2025-03-28 Syrian state media says Israeli strikes hit coastal province
Quneitra: 2025-03-26 IDF says troops attacked in southern Syria, returned fire; local officials say 5 dead
Quneitra: 2025-03-19 IDF strikes Syrian artillery systems near border; Damascus condemns ‘Israeli aggression’
Related:
As-Suwayda: 2025-05-05 Sheikhs' Calls: Why Türkiye Closed Skies to Israeli Aircraft
As-Suwayda: 2025-03-04 'David's Corridor': What Role Do the Druze Play in Israel's Plans to Dismember Syria
As-Suwayda: 2025-02-26 The Druze and their new friends: who is challenging the new authorities in southern Syria
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Nawa : 2023-08-26 Anti-government protests erupt in 10 areas of Syria’s Daraa
Link


Economy
Gulf AI giant moves into US amid tech rivalry
2025-05-06
[RT] The UAE-backed G42 group’s reported expansion plans come amid growing AI competition, with China and others closing the gap with the US

The United Arab Emirates’ artificial intelligence group G42, backed by Abu Dhabi’s state-owned Mubadala investment company, is set to expand into the US, Financial Times has reported, citing corporate filings. It plans to invest tens of billions of dollars to establish itself in the market, the newspaper said.

While the US has dominated the domain, as well as the semiconductor segment, more and more nations are making concerted efforts to develop and promote globally indigenous AI technologies and chips.

In an article on Sunday, FT quoted a G42 representative as confirming that it is “committed to the USA market expansion and has established a legal entity towards that strategy.”

The publication noted that the AI company is chaired by the UAE’s national security adviser Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed al-Nahyan, who has spearheaded the country’s AI-centered economic diversification push.

Last April, Microsoft pledged to invest $1.5 billion into G42 in exchange for a minority stake in the UAE group, which has also attracted other US investors, including Ray Dalio’s family office and private equity firm Silver Lake.

In 2023, G42 announced it was cutting ties with Chinese hardware suppliers such as Huawei in favor of their American competitors to ensure compliance with US regulations.

As recently as January, the debut of DeepSeek in China cast doubt on the dominance of US-based ChatGPT. Unlike its American rival, the Chinese model is freely available without a subscription, and swiftly became the most downloaded app on Apple’s and Google’s stores in nearly 60 countries. On top of that, it is said to be far less expensive to run compared to ChatGPT.

Back in March, researchers from the University of Science and Technology of China (USTC) unveiled a new superconducting quantum computing prototype, which is said to be a million times faster than Google’s top quantum processors. The Chinese chip, named Zuchongzhi-3, is also a quadrillion times more efficient than any conventionally built supercomputer, according to its developers.

In February, the newspaper Mint, citing Indian officials, claimed that New Delhi was developing its own artificial intelligence chip from scratch, with a view to reducing the country’s dependence on Western tech companies by 2027.
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G42 04/08/2025 Trump says furniture makers coming back to North Carolina as Canadian company moves to state
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