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India and Pakistan tussle, landmark victory for free speech, Yemen strikes Israel

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Informed Muslim
May 08, 2025

India launches missiles into Pakistan

Early Wednesday morning (local time), Indian forces reportedly launched missile strikes across the border into Pakistan and the Pakistani-administered region of Kashmir, resulting in the deaths of at least 26 people. In response, Pakistan has pledged to take appropriate measures.

This attack represents a significant escalation in tensions between the two nuclear-armed neighbors, who have long been in dispute over the region of Kashmir. India and Pakistan have engaged in multiple conflicts over Kashmir since the partition of British India in 1947.

India stated that it targeted nine locations in Punjab and Kashmir, claiming these sites were being used by militants connected to the recent attack in Pahalgam — a town in Indian-administered Kashmir — which claimed the lives of 26 individuals. Pakistan, on the other hand, reported civilian casualties in at least five areas as a result of the strikes. India has accused Pakistan of supporting armed groups operating in the region, a claim that Pakistan has consistently denied.

Following the Pahalgam attack, both nations have taken steps to reduce diplomatic engagement, closed their airspace to each other’s flights, and exchanged fire along the Line of Control. These developments have raised concerns about the potential for further escalation and broader conflict.

A Landmark Victory for Free Speech

In a decisive victory for civil rights and constitutional freedoms, a federal judge in Nevada has dismissed all claims in a lawsuit filed against American Muslims for Palestine (AMP). The court found the case to be without merit, reaffirming that AMP’s advocacy is fully protected under the First Amendment.

This landmark ruling sends a strong message: attempts to silence lawful political expression and intimidate grassroots organizations through the courts will not succeed.

The lawsuit, driven by recycled and baseless allegations, is part of a broader strategy to suppress voices that challenge Israel’s human rights abuses. The court’s decision reinforces that advocacy for Palestinian rights is not only moral, it is legal and constitutionally protected.

Yemen strikes Israel and Israel’s retaliation

The recent missile attack by the Houthi movement in Yemen targeting parts of Israel has sparked renewed concern and debate within the Muslim community. While the Houthis have justified their actions as a defense of the oppressed and a stand against Israeli aggression, we must reflect on the broader implications of such violence in our troubled world.

As Muslims, we are taught by our faith to seek justice, support the oppressed, and uphold peace wherever possible. However, we must also be mindful of the consequences of conflict, particularly when innocent lives are at risk. The Quran reminds us: “And if two parties among the believers fight, then make peace between them. But if one oppresses the other, then fight against the oppressor until they comply with the command of Allah” (Quran 49:9). This verse emphasizes reconciliation over retaliation.

In response to the strike, Israel launched airstrikes on Houthi-controlled areas in Yemen, further escalating hostilities. Such tit-for-tat violence threatens not only the people of Yemen and Palestine but also risks drawing more nations into the fray, including regional powers like Iran and Saudi Arabia. These developments deeply affect the global Muslim ummah, which has a shared interest in peace, security, and stability across the Islamic world.

It is now more important than ever for us to pray for peace, support humanitarian aid, and encourage dialogue over destruction. Our leaders—both political and religious—must work toward de-escalation and uphold the Islamic teachings of compassion, wisdom, and justice. Only through sincere efforts grounded in these principles can lasting peace be realized in the Middle East and beyond.

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Science & Technology

While technology connects us, Islam teaches mindfulness in its use. Set boundaries to protect family time, especially during sacred moments like Ramadan, where communal bonding strengthens faith.

Use apps for quranic learning or dua reminders , but avoid platforms that spread negativity or misinformation. The Prophet (PBUH) emphasized intention, so ensure your digital footprint reflects adab (ethics) and contributes positively to society.

  • Engineers develop electronic "Band-Aid" capable of delivering drugs directly to internal organs; battery-free device may provide a platform for advanced health monitoring and therapies.

  • Brain study reveals humans process faces from other races differently than their own, with less detail and differentiation; results confirm phenomenon known as the "other race effect".

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Sports

Health

Islam encourages holistic health, balancing physical and spiritual well-being. Prioritize moderation in diet and exercise, reflecting the Quranic principle: “Eat and drink, but be not excessive” (Surah Al-A’raf 7:31). Additionally, integrate wudu (ablution) and prayer into daily routines to refresh both body and soul, reminding yourself that caring for your health is an act of worship, as the body is a trust from Allah.

Self Improvement

Self-improvement in Islam begins with sincere intention (niyyah ) and accountability. Dedicate time daily for muhasabah (self-reflection), asking Allah for guidance to better yourself for His sake. The Quran urges believers to “walk on the earth and see how He began creation” (Surah Al-Ankabut 29:20), encouraging growth through knowledge and empathy, which aligns with the Islamic values of tolerance and human fraternity.

Parenting

In Islam, parenting is a sacred trust (amanah ) rooted in compassion and guidance. Emphasize nurturing your child’s iman (faith) through consistent dua (supplication) and modeling righteous behavior, as the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said, “Each of you is a shepherd, and each of you is responsible for his flock”.

Incorporate storytelling from the lives of the Prophets to instill moral values, fostering a connection between their daily actions and Islamic teachings.

Family

In Islam, family life is foundational to societal and spiritual harmony, built on mutual respect, compassion, and shared responsibilities. Prioritize open communication and emotional support within the household, as the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) exemplified patience and kindness in nurturing familial bonds.

Balance worldly obligations with family time, ensuring that work or personal pursuits do not overshadow the rights of spouses, children, and extended relatives, as emphasized in Islamic teachings on justice and fairness. Additionally, foster a home environment rooted in ibadah (worship), such as praying together or discussing Quranic values, to strengthen collective faith and moral grounding.

Remember, maintaining ties of kinship is not only a duty but a means of earning Allah’s blessings, as highlighted in the structure of the Muslim family that extends beyond immediate relatives to include in-laws and broader relations.

"Allah! There is no deity except Him, the Ever-Living, the Sustainer of [all] existence. Neither drowsiness overtakes Him nor sleep. To Him belongs whatever is in the heavens and whatever is on the earth. Who is it that can intercede with Him except by His permission? He knows what is [presently] before them and what will be after them, and they encompass not a thing of His knowledge except by His consent. His Kursi extends over the heavens and the earth, and their preservation tires Him not. And He is the Most High, the Most Great."

— Surah Al-Baqarah (2:255)

This verse, known as Ayat al-Kursi , emphasizes Allah’s absolute sovereignty, omniscience, and eternal nature. It affirms His uniqueness and role as the sole sustainer of creation, highlighting that nothing escapes His control or knowledge. The mention of His Kursi (often interpreted as His dominion or throne) symbolizes His limitless power over the universe. Believers recite this verse for protection and reassurance, as it underscores Allah’s unwavering authority and the futility of seeking intercession without His permission. It serves as a reminder to trust in His plan, seek His guidance, and recognize His supremacy in all aspects of life.

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At Informed Muslim, we intend to bring relevant information that we came across that we felt you as a “well-informed” Muslim may care to know about. Some of the opinions expressed here are with the intent to stay as much neutral as possible so you as a reader can get the unbiased information.

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