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Iran serious about deal with US, expects realistic conditions: Envoy

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KUWAIT: Iranian Ambassador Mohammad Toutounchi has reaffirmed Iran’s willingness to reach a serious agreement with the United States regarding its nuclear program, cautioning Washington against repeating failed strategies and imposing unrealistic demands.

“The talks are progressing within the framework laid out by both parties, and it can be said that their primary objectives have been met thus far,” Ambassador Toutounchi said on the sidelines of a condolence ceremony held at the Iranian Embassy in Kuwait, following the tragic explosion and fire at Shahid Rajaee Port in Bandar Abbas.

Tehran and Washington are participating in indirect negotiations, mediated by Oman, aiming to revive talks on Iran’s nuclear activities. Since April 12, the two sides have held three rounds of talks, the highest-level contact between them in years. The discussions are primarily focused on the lifting of sanctions imposed on Iran in exchange for curbing its nuclear activities.

The third round was held earlier this week in Muscat, and a fourth is scheduled for this Saturday in Rome, Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian said Wednesday.

Ambassador Toutounchi emphasized that the Islamic Republic remains fully committed to its obligations under international treaties. “The frequent visits of the Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to Tehran reaffirm Iran’s adherence to peaceful nuclear activities and to all provisions of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT),” he said.

At the ceremony, the ambassador gave an update on Iran’s investigations into the Bandar Abbas blast. The incident, which occurred last Saturday, claimed the lives of dozens of technicians and left hundreds of workers injured.

“Investigations into the cause of the fire are still ongoing, led by a specialized team of experts,” he said. “However, early findings suggest there was a failure to comply with safety protocols and civil defense measures. Due to the magnitude of the disaster and its repercussions, broader investigations and comprehensive laboratory analyses are required.”

The ambassador expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support from Kuwaiti leadership and the public. “The heartfelt condolences extended by His Highness the Amir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, senior officials, and the people of Kuwait have brought comfort during this painful time and reflect the depth of brotherly ties between our two nations,” he said.

The ceremony drew a stream of diplomats and officials expressing solidarity with Iran. Among the early attendees was Ministry of Interior Spokesperson Major General Mohammed Hashem Al-Sabr, who conveyed Kuwait’s heartfelt sympathy and prayers for the victims and their families.

Ambassadors representing countries from around the world followed with solemn tributes, including the envoys of Iraq, Palestine, Tunisia, and Sudan. Indonesian ambassador Lena Mariana, visibly moved, spoke of the shock the tragedy caused and stressed the importance of precaution and safety in similar industrial sites.

Palestinian Ambassador Rami Tahboub offered prayers for the victims, hoping they would be accepted as martyrs, while Iraqi Ambassador Al Manhal Al Safi expressed deep sorrow on behalf of his country, calling for strength and patience for the bereaved.

Archbishop Eugene Nugent offered a spiritual message of comfort, praying for eternal peace for the deceased and healing for the wounded. Italy’s ambassador Lorenzo Morini, sent words of compassion, stating that the images of destruction left a deep impact.

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Exit permit now mandatory for expat workers

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KUWAIT: A decision mandating expatriates working in the private sector to obtain an exit permit with the prior approval of their employers comes into effect on Tuesday, July 1, 2025. Employees need to apply through the Sahel app or the Public Authority of Manpower’s website. The employer must then approve the request online before the authority issues the permit. The decision applies to private sector employees who have residency under article 18. Those who have article 19 residency – self-sponsored – are not required to obtain the exit permit.

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410 students benefit from Educational Care Bank project

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KUWAIT: Al-Safa Charitable Society announced that 410 students across various educational stages have benefited from the Educational Care Bank project for the 2024-2025 academic year. The initiative, implemented in collaboration with the General Secretariat of Endowments, provided a total of KD 100,000 (approximately $330,000) in educational support within Kuwait. Chairman of Al-Safa’s Board of Directors Mohammad Al-Shaya said in a press statement on Monday that the project reflects a shared commitment to supporting future generations by creating an educational environment free from financial obstacles. He emphasized that the initiative also aims to alleviate the financial burden faced by low-income families amid ongoing economic challenges.

Al-Shaya praised the General Secretariat of Endowments for its continued sponsorship of impactful and innovative projects that serve the community, particularly those focused on education. He noted that the Secretariat’s support for this program underscores its strong belief in education as a cornerstone for societal advancement and sustainable development. He added that Al-Safa Charitable Society, through this partnership, seeks to nurture a knowledgeable and responsible generation capable of contributing meaningfully to national development. The project, he explained, targets students who face difficulty in paying tuition fees, reaffirming the association’s belief in the right to education for all—without discrimination or financial barriers. — KUNA

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97,000 reverts and counting: IPC’s role in spreading Islam

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KUWAIT: Although it has been three months since the end of Ramadan, Islamic da’wah in Kuwait is far from limited to the holy month. Through organizations like the Islam Presentation Committee (IPC) — one of the country’s largest and oldest da’wah institutions — outreach efforts continue year-round. Since its founding in 1987, IPC has helped more than 97,000 people embrace Islam, including 2,702 in the past year alone. With over 3.4 million expatriates living in Kuwait — many from diverse religious backgrounds — the country often becomes more than just a place of work.

For many, it becomes the first space where they encounter Islam in a meaningful way. IPC’s efforts extend beyond traditional settings like mosques and religious centers. Thanks to the organization’s efforts, this Ramadan Kuwait did experience a significant increase in conversions to Islam, marking the highest number of conversions in the past seven years. Approximately 730 individuals from various nationalities embraced Islam by the 29th day of Ramadan.

This achievement is attributed to the efforts of 78 male and female preachers and the success of the “Change Their Lives” campaign, which included lectures and the distribution of preaching materials across the country. Much of IPC’s outreach focuses on laborers and domestic workers, meeting them in everyday environments such as markets, salons, workplaces, hospitals, farms, labor inspection offices, and even deportation centers.

Following initial outreach, new reverts begin a structured learning journey starting with a “Basic Islam” course that covers essential beliefs and practices. As they progress, students can enroll in advanced courses on Quranic interpretation, Tajweed, Islamic jurisprudence, Prophetic biography, and Islamic history — all offered free of charge.

Available in 14 languages

Arabic language classes are also available for non-native speakers, including non-Muslims who wish to understand Islamic texts or culture. IPC also supports lifelong Muslims, recognizing that many — especially those from non-Arabic-speaking countries — may never have had the chance to study Islam formally. “We don’t just teach the students — we create a community for them,” said Haya Alawadhi, head of IPC’s Salmiya branch. “A good circle of friends, emotional support from teachers and staff, and even financial assistance when needed.”

Many new Muslims face personal challenges — including separation from family and friends. IPC responds by fostering a family-like environment where instructors and fellow students offer compassion, inclusion and support. After carefully assessing individual needs, IPC also provides financial aid and job placement assistance to ease the transition. With lectures and materials available in 14 languages, the organization ensures accessibility for newcomers of all backgrounds. In 2024 alone, the committee recorded 8,455 students from 39 nationalities enrolled in its programs.

“We don’t call each other by titles”

“We don’t call each other by titles,” Alawadhi added. “We say ‘sister’ and ‘brother.’ You might find an American sitting next to an Asian or a European, and everyone is treated the same. If someone walks in with bias, it fades once they become part of this place.” To further its reach, IPC has expanded into digital outreach, offering social media campaigns, interactive online lectures, and Islamic content to engage younger audiences and remote learners.

IPC’s da’wah efforts are not limited to blue-collar communities. The organization also engages diplomats, professionals, and high-profile guests, presenting them with traditional Kuwaiti gift boxes that include a translated Quran, a tourism brochure, and Islamic educational materials. In 2024 alone, IPC organized around 881 training courses. Alawadhi also shared that IPC trains new Muslims to become future Islamic educators and preachers. “Some of our most active preachers today were once IPC students who converted to Islam,” she added. IPC runs around 14 branches and centers that are spread across Kuwait’s governorates.

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