Saudi

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Stop, In the Name of God By Mamoon Alabbasi

A top Saudi cleric is reported to have issued a religious decree claiming that it is "lawful to kill" owners of Arab television networks broadcasting "depravation and debauchery".

Saleh al-Luhaidan, responding to a question by a caller in a radio phone-in programme regarding 'immoral' content in Arabic television, is reported to have said that if lesser punishments fail, then those responsible "can be put to death."

The issue here is very serious and goes beyond arguments pertaining to censorship, social taboos, or morality.

The decree is an example that provides further demonstration how religion can be misused to justify the killing of others in a casual way.

The all-male committee that oversees the management of space and safety at the Ka'ba has proposed to remove the woman-only prayer space on the main floor. Their plan is to open a bigger woman-only space with a "good view" on another floor. In response to complaints from women and men alike, they explain that they have proposed the plan for women's sake alone. It is reported that Osama al-Bar has said,

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Some women thought it wasn't good, but from our point of view it will be better for them ... We can sit with them and explain to them what the decision is.