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Texas hostage case: Who is Aafia Siddiqui, the Pakistani convict at the centre of the storm?

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Texas hostage case: Who is Aafia Siddiqui, the Pakistani convict at the centre of the storm?

British national Malik Faisal Akram was killed Saturday during a confrontation with U.S. federal agents at a synagogue in Fort Worth, Texas, where he kidnapped a rabbi With three other hostages, he was “focused on just one issue” and, according to law enforcement officials, had demanded to see a woman serving a sentence in the United States.

U.S. media reports said Akram was likely referring to Aafia Siddiqui, a highly educated Pakistani neuroscientist who was convicted in 2010 on terrorism charges. The federal women’s prison where Siddiqui is located is less than 40 kilometers from where Akram was killed. The Texas Department of Public Safety said he had claimed he and the woman he wanted to meet would “go to Jenna after seeing her.” Siddiqui, once described as “the most wanted woman in the world” and “Mrs al-Qaeda”, has been a motivating figure for Islamists for many years.
In 2014, ISIS separately offered to free journalist James Foley and an American woman – later identified as Kayla Mueller – in exchange for Siddiqui’s freedom. The Taliban and the Haqqani network tried to trade US Army deserter Bowie Bergdahl for her. Siddiqui, 49, was born in Karachi and studied in the US in the 1990s. She was trained at MIT and received her PhD in Neuroscience from Brandeis University in Massachusetts in 2001.

In 2002, she opened a mailbox in the name of Al Qaeda suspect Majid Khan in Pakistan, who is currently at the Guantanamo Bay detention facility, according to the FBI.

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In a profile published in 2010, The New York Times reported that Siddiqui was married to her second husband, Ammar al-Baluchi, the 9/11 conspirator and Daniel Pearl’s murderer, Khalid. De Sheikh Mohammed’s nephew, who himself was one of the funders of the 9/11 attacks, was in Pakistan in 2003 and then disappeared for about five years. Khalid Sheikh Mohammed and Ammar al-Baluchi are both being held at the Guantanamo Bay facility.

Complete News Source : The Indian EXPRESS

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US vice president JD Vance, wife Usha and kids visit Jaipur’s iconic Amber Fort | Pics

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US vice president JD Vance, wife Usha and kids visit Jaipur’s iconic Amber Fort | Pics

US Vice President JD Vance, his wife Usha Vance, and their children visited the historical Amer Fort in Jaipur on April 22, 2025. The Vance family received a warm welcome at the Fort, where they were greeted with a traditional Rajasthani dance performance and elegantly decorated elephants. Second Lady Usha Vance, the wife of US vice president JD Vance, carries her daughter Mirabel as they watch a cultural performance at the Amber Fort in Jaipur.

Rajasthan CM Bhajanlal Sharma welcomed the Vance family as they visited the historic Amer Fort in Jaipur. The Vance family will depart for the US early Thursday morning. In related news, JD Vance and wife Usha attended Good Friday service at St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City. Vance also visited the Taj Mahal in Agra on April 23, 2025. Vance said that “good progress.

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In other news, Pope Francis’ funeral is set to start on Wednesday, and the J&K tourist hub has been completely shut today. On 4/20, celebrations across the US highlight cannabis culture and calls for legalization had been made towards a trade deal with India after meeting with “tough negotiator” Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi. The Vance family visited.

On April 22, 2025, US Vice President JD Vance, accompanied by his wife Usha Vance, and their three children, visited Jaipur’s historic Amber Fort. The family received a warm welcome, highlighted by traditional Rajasthani folk performances and a red carpet reception. As they entered the fort’s main courtyard, Jaleb Chowk, they were greeted by two elegantly decorated elephants named Chanda and Mala, raising their trunks in greeting. ​

During their visit, the Vances were joined by Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma and Deputy Chief Minister Diya Kumari, who guided them through the fort’s rich history and architectural marvels. The family also enjoyed cultural performances featuring traditional dances such as Kacchi Ghodi, Ghoomar, and Kalbeliya, offering a glimpse into the vibrant.

Usha Vance, dressed in a chic white shirt and patterned skirt, explored the fort alongside her family and dignitaries, embracing the cultural experience culture of Rajasthan This visit was part of Vice President Vance’s four-day official trip to India, aimed at strengthening bilateral relations between the United States and India. The Vance family departed for Washington.

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Bhajanlal Sharma welcomed the Vance family as they visited the historic Amer from Jaipur on April 24, concluding their cultural tour of India Upon their arrival at Amber Fort, the Vance family was greeted with traditional Rajasthani hospitality. Two elegantly decorated elephants, Chanda and Pushpa, adorned with silver ornaments, were stationed at the entrance welcome.

The family was also treated to a cultural performance featuring folk artists dressed in traditional Rajputi and Kalbelia attire, accompanied by musicians playing regional instruments. The vibrant rangolis and the overall festive atmosphere highlighted the rich cultural tapestry of Rajasthan The fort’s impressive courtyards and majestic structures.

Exploring the Fort’s Historical Significance

During their tour of Amber Fort, the Vance family explored various architectural marvels, including the Sheesh Mahal (Mirror Palace), known for its intricate mirror work and stunning design. They were accompanied by Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma and Deputy Chief Minister Diya Kumari, who provided insights into the fort’s history and significance.​

Engaging with Local Culture

Throughout their visit, Vice President Vance demonstrated a keen interest in engaging with The Vance family’s visit to Amber Fort was part local culture. He interacted with the folk artists and expressed appreciation for the traditional performances, reflecting a genuine curiosity and respect for India’s diverse cultural heritage.​

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