======Ali Bashir======
=====Introduction=====
Ali Bashir is a [[wizard]] who came into conflict with the British [[Ministry of Magic]] in 1994 over his desire to import [[Flying Carpet]]s. His brief mention in the series highlights the cultural differences within the international [[wizarding world]] and the bureaucratic, sometimes Anglocentric, nature of [[Ministry of Magic]] law.
=====Biography=====
In the summer of 1994, leading up to the [[Quidditch World Cup]], Ali Bashir was in correspondence with the [[Ministry of Magic]] regarding a consignment of [[Flying Carpet]]s he wished to import into [[Great Britain]]. The matter fell to [[Arthur Weasley]], then Head of the [[Misuse of Muggle Artefacts Office]], because carpets are defined as a [[Muggle]] [[artefact]] by the [[Registry of Proscribed Charmable Objects]].
Bashir argued passionately that in his home country, flying carpets were a traditional and primary mode of transportation, not a misuse of a [[Muggle]] item. Despite his protests, [[Arthur Weasley]] was obliged to inform him that the ban was absolute and his import request was denied. According to Arthur, Bashir was "on the warpath" over the decision, indicating his extreme displeasure with the [[Ministry of Magic]]'s ruling.
=====Physical Appearance and Personality=====
Ali Bashir's physical appearance is not described in the novels.
His personality is implied to be passionate and persistent. He staunchly defends his cultural traditions against what he perceives as arbitrary foreign laws. The phrase "//on the warpath//" suggests he is determined and not easily deterred, possibly possessing a fiery temper when provoked by bureaucratic obstacles.
=====Magical Abilities and Skills=====
No specific magical abilities are detailed. As a proponent of [[Flying Carpet]]s, it is highly probable that he is a skilled carpet-flyer.
=====Possessions=====
  * **[[Flying Carpet]]s:** Ali Bashir either owns or trades in [[Flying Carpet]]s, which he considers a legitimate form of magical transport.
=====Relationships=====
The only relationship mentioned is his professional and adversarial one with [[Arthur Weasley]], representing the British [[Ministry of Magic]]. The conflict arose from their opposing views on the legal status of [[Flying Carpet]]s, with Bashir seeing them as a cultural staple and Weasley enforcing a strict legal ban.
=====Etymology=====
  * **Ali:** A common Arabic masculine name (عليّ) meaning "high," "lofty," or "exalted."
  * **Bashir:** An Arabic name (بشير) meaning "bringer of good news."
  * The combination of these names strongly suggests a Middle Eastern origin for the character, which aligns with the cultural association of [[Flying Carpet]]s from stories like //One Thousand and One Nights//.
=====Behind the Scenes=====
Ali Bashir is a character mentioned only in the novels and does not appear in the film adaptations or video games. His story serves as an example of world-building, illustrating that the British wizarding community's laws are not universal and can conflict with the customs of other magical cultures.