Two Hong Kong residents who were accused of working with a group that campaigned for international sanctions on China on Thursday pleaded guilty under the city's national security law. The case is linked to jailed pro-democracy media tycoon Jimmy Lai.

The sweeping security law has been imposed by China on Hong Kong to quell dissent after huge pro-democracy protests.

More than 130 people, including many of the city's best-known democracy advocates, have since been arrested under the law.

Democracy activist Andy Li, 31, and paralegal Chan Tsz-wah, 30, admitted to a charge of "colluding with foreign forces to endanger China's national security" on Thursday.

Prosecutors said they were part of a group that organised the publishing of adverts and articles in overseas newspapers calling for sanctions against China.

Both were in custody ahead of their plea.

Little has been heard in open court about the case against the duo but they are part of a group of people linked to jailed pro-democracy media tycoon Lai who faces the same national security charge.

Authorities have accused Lai, 73, of running a "criminal syndicate" that lobbied for international sanctions against China over its crackdown in Hong Kong.

At Thursday's hearing, prosecutors read out a summary of the allegations against the two defendants.&nbsp;

In it, they accused Lai and his American aide Mark Simon of being "masterminds and financial support behind the scene and at the highest level of the syndicate".

Chan allegedly delivered Lai and Simon's instructions to Li.

Simon left Hong Kong last year and has previously described the prosecution against Lai and others as a political witch hunt against Beijing's critics.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Two Hong Kong residents who were accused of working with a group that campaigned for international sanctions on China on Thursday pleaded guilty under the city's national security law.

Two Hong Kong residents who were accused of working with a group that campaigned for international sanctions on China on Thursday pleaded guilty under the city's national security law. The case is linked to jailed pro-democracy media tycoon Jimmy Lai. The sweeping security law has been imposed by China on Hong Kong to quell dissent after huge pro-democracy protests. More than 130 people, including many of the city's best-known democracy advocates, have since been arrested under the law. Democracy activist Andy Li, 31, and paralegal Chan Tsz-wah, 30, admitted to a charge of "colluding with foreign forces to endanger China's national security" on Thursday. Prosecutors said they were part of a group that organised the publishing of adverts and articles in overseas newspapers calling for sanctions against China. Both were in custody ahead of their plea. Little has been heard in open court about the case against the duo but they are part of a group of people linked to jailed pro-democracy media tycoon Lai who faces the same national security charge. Authorities have accused Lai, 73, of running a "criminal syndicate" that lobbied for international sanctions against China over its crackdown in Hong Kong. At Thursday's hearing, prosecutors read out a summary of the allegations against the two defendants. In it, they accused Lai and his American aide Mark Simon of being "masterminds and financial support behind the scene and at the highest level of the syndicate". Chan allegedly delivered Lai and Simon's instructions to Li. Simon left Hong Kong last year and has previously described the prosecution against Lai and others as a political witch hunt against Beijing's critics. (With inputs from agencies)

Hong Kong: Activists plead guilty to 'national security' charge over sanction calls

Officials in Singapore said on Thursday that a British man received a jail sentence of six weeks for not wearing a mask and harassing police.

Singapore has taken a tough line against people breaking virus rule. There have been several cases of foreigners being punished.

Benjamin Glynn, the British man, was arrested after clip of him not wearing a mask on a train went viral. The clip had gone viral in May.

The 40-year-old subsequently harassed police sent to arrest him, and refused to wear a face-covering during a court appearance last month.

According to reports, Glynn delivered a rant in court -- in which he described the proceedings as "preposterous" and "disgusting" -- and said masks were not effective in preventing the spread of Covid-19.

This prompted the judge to order a psychiatric assessment, but Glynn was deemed fit enough for the case to continue.

On Wednesday, he was convicted for breaching Covid-19 rules, his behaviour towards police, and causing a public nuisance.

A court official confirmed the jail term to AFP on Thursday, saying it was backdated to July 19 -- the date when Glynn was first remanded.

(With inputs from agencies)

Officials in Singapore said on Thursday that a British man received a jail sentence of six weeks for not wearing a mask and harassing police. Singapore has taken a tough line against people breaking virus rule.

Officials in Singapore said on Thursday that a British man received a jail sentence of six weeks for not wearing a mask and harassing police. Singapore has taken a tough line against people breaking virus rule. There have been several cases of foreigners being punished. Benjamin Glynn, the British man, was arrested after clip of him not wearing a mask on a train went viral. The clip had gone viral in May. The 40-year-old subsequently harassed police sent to arrest him, and refused to wear a face-covering during a court appearance last month. According to reports, Glynn delivered a rant in court -- in which he described the proceedings as "preposterous" and "disgusting" -- and said masks were not effective in preventing the spread of Covid-19. This prompted the judge to order a psychiatric assessment, but Glynn was deemed fit enough for the case to continue. On Wednesday, he was convicted for breaching Covid-19 rules, his behaviour towards police, and causing a public nuisance. A court official confirmed the jail term to AFP on Thursday, saying it was backdated to July 19 -- the date when Glynn was first remanded. (With inputs from agencies)

Singapore: British man handed jail term for not wearing mask

Russian forein minister Sergei Lavrov said on Thursday that anti-Taliban forces led by deposed Afghan vice-president Amrullah Saleh and Ahmad Massoud were gathering in Panjshir Valley. Massoud is the son of a slain anti-Taliban fighter. Panjshir lies in the north of Kabul.

"The Taliban doesn't control the whole territory of Afghanistan," Lavrov told reporters at a press conference in Moscow following a meeting with his Libyan counterpart.&nbsp;

"There are reports of the situation in the Panjshir Valley where the resistance of Afghanistan's vice president Mr Saleh and Ahmad Massoud is concentrated," he said.

Lavrov reiterated his call for an inclusive dialogue involving all political players in Afghanistan in order to form a "representative government"

Panjshir valley, known for its natural defenses is is Afghanistan's last remaining holdout. Saleh&nbsp;and Massoud are pulling together a guerilla movement to take on Taliban.

Moscow has been cautiously optimistic about the new leadership in Kabul and is seeking contact with the militants in an effort to avoid instability spilling over to neighbouring ex-Soviet states.

While the United States and other countries rushed to evacuate their citizens from Kabul, Russia said its embassy will continue to function.&nbsp;

Russian foreign ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova told reporters on Thursday that the Taliban are "actively restoring order" and have demonstrated their "intent to dialogue".&nbsp;

She said at her weekly press briefing that the militant group -- known for its severe treatment of women -- is "ready to take into account the interest of citizens, including... women's rights".&nbsp;

Earlier this week, Russia's ambassador to Afghanistan Dmitry Zhirnov met with the Taliban in Kabul, hailing on state television a "positive and constructive" meeting.&nbsp;

The Kremlin has in recent years reached out to the Taliban -- which is banned as an "extremist" group in Russia -- and hosted its representatives in Moscow several times, most recently last month.

(With inputs from agencies)

Russian forein minister Sergei Lavrov said on Thursday that anti-Taliban forces led by deposed Afghan vice-president Amrullah Saleh and Ahmad Massoud were gathering in Panjshir Valley.

Russian forein minister Sergei Lavrov said on Thursday that anti-Taliban forces led by deposed Afghan vice-president Amrullah Saleh and Ahmad Massoud were gathering in Panjshir Valley. Massoud is the son of a slain anti-Taliban fighter. Panjshir lies in the north of Kabul. "The Taliban doesn't control the whole territory of Afghanistan," Lavrov told reporters at a press conference in Moscow following a meeting with his Libyan counterpart. "There are reports of the situation in the Panjshir Valley where the resistance of Afghanistan's vice president Mr Saleh and Ahmad Massoud is concentrated," he said. Lavrov reiterated his call for an inclusive dialogue involving all political players in Afghanistan in order to form a "representative government" Panjshir valley, known for its natural defenses is is Afghanistan's last remaining holdout. Saleh and Massoud are pulling together a guerilla movement to take on Taliban. Moscow has been cautiously optimistic about the new leadership in Kabul and is seeking contact with the militants in an effort to avoid instability spilling over to neighbouring ex-Soviet states. While the United States and other countries rushed to evacuate their citizens from Kabul, Russia said its embassy will continue to function. Russian foreign ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova told reporters on Thursday that the Taliban are "actively restoring order" and have demonstrated their "intent to dialogue". She said at her weekly press briefing that the militant group -- known for its severe treatment of women -- is "ready to take into account the interest of citizens, including... women's rights". Earlier this week, Russia's ambassador to Afghanistan Dmitry Zhirnov met with the Taliban in Kabul, hailing on state television a "positive and constructive" meeting. The Kremlin has in recent years reached out to the Taliban -- which is banned as an "extremist" group in Russia -- and hosted its representatives in Moscow several times, most recently last month. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia says anti-Taliban forces are gathering north of Kabul

USA spent trillions of dollars in Afghanistan, its soldiers spent countless hours in training what was Afghan National Army. But the situation unravelled in surprisingly short time and Taliban came back to power. Now, to add to the embarrassment, videos of Taliban fighters wearing US uniforms and driving Humvees left behind by the US soldiers and retreating Afghan armymen are putting the US in a tight spot.

Taliban has seized huge amounts of weaponry, equipment and ammunition from Afghan armed forces. All of this had been supplied by the USA in last two decades.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
More than 100 Humvees captured in Mazar sharif.Dostum and its troops were fleeing to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Tajikistan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Tajikistan</a> but couldn't get the permission,later <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Taliban?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Taliban</a> ask them if they could surrendered instead being killed.<a href="https://t.co/1LDHdig5iT">pic.twitter.com/1LDHdig5iT</a>
— Spoils of war (@SpoilOfWar) <a href="https://twitter.com/SpoilOfWar/status/1427011818325696514?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

Videos of Taliban fighters parading in US-made armored vehicles, wielding US-supplied firearms and climbing on American Black Hawk helicopters after the defeat of Afghan government forces have embarrassed the White House.

The videos are doing rounds on social media. Taliban fighters can be seen carrying M4 an M18 assault rifles and M24 sniper weapons, driving around in the iconic US Humvees and, in one video, apparently wearing US-style special forces tactical uniforms.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Taliban fighters ride on top of a U.S.-made Humvee previously used by Afghan security services in the streets of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Kabul?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Kabul</a> (📸 via <a href="https://twitter.com/ShehabAgency?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ShehabAgency</a>) <a href="https://t.co/IkBMhdDXUs">pic.twitter.com/IkBMhdDXUs</a>
— ℳℴhamed Keita (@ModKeita) <a href="https://twitter.com/ModKeita/status/1427049651245568010?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The images are underpinning a political attack on President Joe Biden for alleged mishandling of the US withdrawal from the country after 20 years of war.

Afghan forces conceded Kabul last weekend without a fight. This happened despite two decades of training and tens of billions of dollars from the US. Most of the equipment has been seized from Afghan soldiers

"We don't have a complete picture, obviously, of where every article of defense materials has gone. But certainly, a fair amount of it has fallen into the hands of the Taliban," said White House National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan on Tuesday.

'Botched withdrawal'

"Obviously, we don't have a sense that they are going to readily hand it over to us," he said. 
Republicans seized on the admission to pounce on Biden.

"Thanks to Biden's botched withdrawal, the Taliban is better equipped today than they ever have been," said Republican national chair Ronna McDaniel.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Taliban enjoying the $400,000 Humvee we left them <a href="https://t.co/OjjjEbbd4Q">pic.twitter.com/OjjjEbbd4Q</a>
— Ethan Klein (@h3h3productions) <a href="https://twitter.com/h3h3productions/status/1427716692084289542?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 17, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

According to official figures, the US military supplied the Afghan army with more than 7,000 machine guns, 4,700 Humvees and 20,000 grenades in recent years.

The Afghans have also received artillery and reconnaissance drones from Washington, as well as more than 200 aircraft, both fixed-wing and helicopters.

Pentagon spokesman John Kirby said Wednesday that the department is looking at the issue.

Limited threat

"We obviously don't want to see our equipment in the hands of those who would act against our interests, or the interests of the Afghan people," Kirby told reporters.

"There are numerous policy choices that can be made, up to and including destruction," he said, without giving specifics.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

(Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of these visuals)

USA spent trillions of dollars in Afghanistan, its soldiers spent countless hours in training what was Afghan National Army. But the situation unravelled in surprisingly short time and Taliban came back to power.

USA spent trillions of dollars in Afghanistan, its soldiers spent countless hours in training what was Afghan National Army. But the situation unravelled in surprisingly short time and Taliban came back to power. Now, to add to the embarrassment, videos of Taliban fighters wearing US uniforms and driving Humvees left behind by the US soldiers and retreating Afghan armymen are putting the US in a tight spot. Taliban has seized huge amounts of weaponry, equipment and ammunition from Afghan armed forces. All of this had been supplied by the USA in last two decades. More than 100 Humvees captured in Mazar sharif.Dostum and its troops were fleeing to #Tajikistan but couldn't get the permission,later #Taliban ask them if they could surrendered instead being killed.pic.twitter.com/1LDHdig5iT — Spoils of war (@SpoilOfWar) August 15, 2021 × Videos of Taliban fighters parading in US-made armored vehicles, wielding US-supplied firearms and climbing on American Black Hawk helicopters after the defeat of Afghan government forces have embarrassed the White House. The videos are doing rounds on social media. Taliban fighters can be seen carrying M4 an M18 assault rifles and M24 sniper weapons, driving around in the iconic US Humvees and, in one video, apparently wearing US-style special forces tactical uniforms. Taliban fighters ride on top of a U.S.-made Humvee previously used by Afghan security services in the streets of #Kabul (📸 via @ShehabAgency) pic.twitter.com/IkBMhdDXUs — ℳℴhamed Keita (@ModKeita) August 15, 2021 × The images are underpinning a political attack on President Joe Biden for alleged mishandling of the US withdrawal from the country after 20 years of war. Afghan forces conceded Kabul last weekend without a fight. This happened despite two decades of training and tens of billions of dollars from the US. Most of the equipment has been seized from Afghan soldiers "We don't have a complete picture, obviously, of where every article of defense materials has gone. But certainly, a fair amount of it has fallen into the hands of the Taliban," said White House National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan on Tuesday. 'Botched withdrawal' "Obviously, we don't have a sense that they are going to readily hand it over to us," he said. Republicans seized on the admission to pounce on Biden. "Thanks to Biden's botched withdrawal, the Taliban is better equipped today than they ever have been," said Republican national chair Ronna McDaniel. Taliban enjoying the $400,000 Humvee we left them pic.twitter.com/OjjjEbbd4Q — Ethan Klein (@h3h3productions) August 17, 2021 × According to official figures, the US military supplied the Afghan army with more than 7,000 machine guns, 4,700 Humvees and 20,000 grenades in recent years. The Afghans have also received artillery and reconnaissance drones from Washington, as well as more than 200 aircraft, both fixed-wing and helicopters. Pentagon spokesman John Kirby said Wednesday that the department is looking at the issue. Limited threat "We obviously don't want to see our equipment in the hands of those who would act against our interests, or the interests of the Afghan people," Kirby told reporters. "There are numerous policy choices that can be made, up to and including destruction," he said, without giving specifics. (With inputs from agencies) (Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of these visuals)

Videos of Taliban with US equipment embarrass White House

Self-proclaimed president of Afghanistan Amrullah Saleh on Thursday trained his guns at Pakistan and Taliban. Saleh said that Afghanistan was too big for Pakistan to swallow and too big for Taliban to govern.

"Nations must respect the rule of law, not violence. Afghanistan is too big for Pakistan to swallow and too big for Talibs to govern. Don't let your histories have a chapter on humiliation and bowing to terror groups," Saleh said in a tweet.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Nations must respect the rule of law , not violence. Afghanistan is too big for Pakistan to swallow and too big for Talibs to govern. Don't let your histories have a chapter on humiliation and bowing to terror groups. <a href="https://t.co/nNo84Z7tEf">https://t.co/nNo84Z7tEf</a>
— Amrullah Saleh (@AmrullahSaleh2) <a href="https://twitter.com/AmrullahSaleh2/status/1428222636451061765?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 19, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

Amrullah's tweet came in response to tweet of Michael Johns, a former White House official who stated:&nbsp; "Afghanistan's constitution, adopted in 2004, addresses the nation's governance under circumstances such as those that have just unfolded. In such a case, first vice president @AmrullahSaleh2 assumes the role of the presidency. Nations must respect the rule of law, not violence."

Saleh had declared himself "legitimate caretaker President" on August 17 after president Ashraf Ghani fled the country in the wake of Taliban takeover.

The terror group took control over Afghanistan on Sunday after entering the presidential palace in Kabul.

Saleh, a native of Panjshir Valley, was a member of the Northern Alliance, which was formed when the Taliban came to power in 1996.

Recently he vowed to "never ever and under no circumstances" bow down to the Taliban.

"I will never, ever and under no circumstances bow to d Talib terrorists. I will never betray d soul and legacy of my hero Ahmad Shah Masoud, the commander, the legend and the guide. I won't disappoint millions who listened to me. I will never be under one ceiling with the Taliban. NEVER," tweeted Saleh.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Self-proclaimed president of Afghanistan Amrullah Saleh on Thursday trained his guns at Pakistan and Taliban. Saleh said that Afghanistan was too big for Pakistan to swallow and too big for Taliban to govern.

Self-proclaimed president of Afghanistan Amrullah Saleh on Thursday trained his guns at Pakistan and Taliban. Saleh said that Afghanistan was too big for Pakistan to swallow and too big for Taliban to govern. "Nations must respect the rule of law, not violence. Afghanistan is too big for Pakistan to swallow and too big for Talibs to govern. Don't let your histories have a chapter on humiliation and bowing to terror groups," Saleh said in a tweet. Nations must respect the rule of law , not violence. Afghanistan is too big for Pakistan to swallow and too big for Talibs to govern. Don't let your histories have a chapter on humiliation and bowing to terror groups. https://t.co/nNo84Z7tEf — Amrullah Saleh (@AmrullahSaleh2) August 19, 2021 × Amrullah's tweet came in response to tweet of Michael Johns, a former White House official who stated: "Afghanistan's constitution, adopted in 2004, addresses the nation's governance under circumstances such as those that have just unfolded. In such a case, first vice president @AmrullahSaleh2 assumes the role of the presidency. Nations must respect the rule of law, not violence." Saleh had declared himself "legitimate caretaker President" on August 17 after president Ashraf Ghani fled the country in the wake of Taliban takeover. The terror group took control over Afghanistan on Sunday after entering the presidential palace in Kabul. Saleh, a native of Panjshir Valley, was a member of the Northern Alliance, which was formed when the Taliban came to power in 1996. Recently he vowed to "never ever and under no circumstances" bow down to the Taliban. "I will never, ever and under no circumstances bow to d Talib terrorists. I will never betray d soul and legacy of my hero Ahmad Shah Masoud, the commander, the legend and the guide. I won't disappoint millions who listened to me. I will never be under one ceiling with the Taliban. NEVER," tweeted Saleh. (With inputs from agencies)

Afghanistan too big for Pakistan to swallow, says self-proclaimed president Amarullah Saleh

Afghanistan's ambassador to Tajikistan Zahir Aghbar on Wednesday rejected Taliban's control of his country and said that hold-out Panjshir province will be a stronghold for resistance led by self-proclaimed acting president of Afghanistan Amrullah Saleh.

Saleh, First Vice-President of Afghanistan, on Tuesday said that he was "legitimate caretaker president" of Afghanistan after President Ashraf Ghani fled the country. Saleh's whereabouts were unknown.

Panjshir was the home of the Northern Alliance anti-Taliban resistance in the 1990s and is still a hold-out province against Taliban rule.

Lieutenant General Zahir Aghbar, who held senior positions in Afghan state security including chief of police before becoming ambassador, said Ghani was a traitor.

"I cannot say that the Taliban have won the war. No, it was just Dr Ashraf Ghani who gave up power after treacherous talks with the Taliban," he told Reuters in an interview.

The militants were able to overrun most of the country because the Afghan military was poorly trained, Aghbar said.

"And only Panjshir resists, led by Vice President Amrullah Saleh," he said. "Panjshir stands strong against anyone who wants to enslave people."

Aghbar said, however, the Taliban could potentially become part of a coalition government that would represent all Afghan factions if they "let others live in peace and accord".

Ghani is in the United Arab Emirates, the Gulf state's foreign ministry said on Wednesday.

(With inputs from agencies)

Afghanistan's ambassador to Tajikistan Zahir Aghbar on Wednesday rejected Taliban's control of his country and said that hold-out Panjshir province will be a stronghold for resistance led by self-proclaimed acting president of Afghanistan Amrullah Saleh.

Afghanistan's ambassador to Tajikistan Zahir Aghbar on Wednesday rejected Taliban's control of his country and said that hold-out Panjshir province will be a stronghold for resistance led by self-proclaimed acting president of Afghanistan Amrullah Saleh. Saleh, First Vice-President of Afghanistan, on Tuesday said that he was "legitimate caretaker president" of Afghanistan after President Ashraf Ghani fled the country. Saleh's whereabouts were unknown. Panjshir was the home of the Northern Alliance anti-Taliban resistance in the 1990s and is still a hold-out province against Taliban rule. Lieutenant General Zahir Aghbar, who held senior positions in Afghan state security including chief of police before becoming ambassador, said Ghani was a traitor. "I cannot say that the Taliban have won the war. No, it was just Dr Ashraf Ghani who gave up power after treacherous talks with the Taliban," he told Reuters in an interview. The militants were able to overrun most of the country because the Afghan military was poorly trained, Aghbar said. "And only Panjshir resists, led by Vice President Amrullah Saleh," he said. "Panjshir stands strong against anyone who wants to enslave people." Aghbar said, however, the Taliban could potentially become part of a coalition government that would represent all Afghan factions if they "let others live in peace and accord". Ghani is in the United Arab Emirates, the Gulf state's foreign ministry said on Wednesday. (With inputs from agencies)

Afghan envoy says Panjshir province can be anti-Taliban stronghold

British Defence Secretary Ben Wallace said on Thursday that fate of Afghanistan after the 20-year war means that the West's resolve is now perceived as weak by major adversaries such as Russia.

Afghanistan war has cost trillions of dollars and caused several hundred thousand casualties but the Taliban are now back in power. Western countries are scrambling to evacuate their diplomats and Afghan staff.

"What I'm uncomfortable with is that we have a world order now, where resolve is perceived by our adversaries as weak, the West's resolve," Wallace told BBC TV.

"That is something we should all worry about: if the West is seen not to have resolve and it fractures, then our adversaries like Russia find that encouraging," Wallace told LBC radio.

Britain fears that the power vacuum created by the US exit will let al-Qaeda gain foothold in Afghanistan.

"Around the world, Islamists will see what they will view as a victory and that will inspire other terrorists," Wallace said.

Cannot evacuate unaccompanied children

Wallace also said on Thursday that Britain could not evacuate unaccompanied children. He said this when he was asked about footage which showed a young child being handed over a wall to Western soldiers at Kabul airport.

The footage, which Reuters said it was unable to immediately verify, showed a small girl being handed over a wall to British and U.S. soldiers at Kabul airport.

Wallace said the child was passed over the wall as her family was being taken out.

"We can't just take a minor on their own," Wallace told Sky News when asked about the footage. "You will find as you see in the footage I think you're showing now, the child was taken - that will be because the family will be taken as well."

(With inputs from agencies)

British Defence Secretary Ben Wallace said on Thursday that fate of Afghanistan after the 20-year war means that the West's resolve is now perceived as weak by major adversaries such as Russia.

British Defence Secretary Ben Wallace said on Thursday that fate of Afghanistan after the 20-year war means that the West's resolve is now perceived as weak by major adversaries such as Russia. Afghanistan war has cost trillions of dollars and caused several hundred thousand casualties but the Taliban are now back in power. Western countries are scrambling to evacuate their diplomats and Afghan staff. "What I'm uncomfortable with is that we have a world order now, where resolve is perceived by our adversaries as weak, the West's resolve," Wallace told BBC TV. "That is something we should all worry about: if the West is seen not to have resolve and it fractures, then our adversaries like Russia find that encouraging," Wallace told LBC radio. Britain fears that the power vacuum created by the US exit will let al-Qaeda gain foothold in Afghanistan. "Around the world, Islamists will see what they will view as a victory and that will inspire other terrorists," Wallace said. Cannot evacuate unaccompanied children Wallace also said on Thursday that Britain could not evacuate unaccompanied children. He said this when he was asked about footage which showed a young child being handed over a wall to Western soldiers at Kabul airport. The footage, which Reuters said it was unable to immediately verify, showed a small girl being handed over a wall to British and U.S. soldiers at Kabul airport. Wallace said the child was passed over the wall as her family was being taken out. "We can't just take a minor on their own," Wallace told Sky News when asked about the footage. "You will find as you see in the footage I think you're showing now, the child was taken - that will be because the family will be taken as well." (With inputs from agencies)

Afghanistan chaos means West appears weak, says UK minister

Dr Abdullah Abdullah, chairman of Afghanistan's High Council for National Reconciliation (HCNR) met Taliban delegation on Wednesday. The meet took place at Abdullah Abdullah's residence. The Taliban delegation was led by Khalil Al-Rahman Haqqani. Former Afghanistan president Hamid Karzai was present at the meeting as well.

Dr Abdullah on Wednesday tweeted about the meeting. He said that he discussed security of Afghan citizens in Kabul and across Afghanistan. During the meet, Dr Abdullah said that he asked the Taliban to priorotise security &amp; protection of the life, property &amp; dignity of the people.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
HE Dr Abdullah Abdullah, Chairman of HCNR <a href="https://twitter.com/SapedarPalace?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SapedarPalace</a>, yesterday evening at his residence met Mr Khalil Al-Rahman Haqqani &amp; his accompanying delegation of Taliban in Kabul. 
HE <a href="https://twitter.com/KarzaiH?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KarzaiH</a>, Mr Fazal Hadi Muslimyar &amp; several other elders &amp; personalties attend the meeting. 1/5 <a href="https://t.co/3emd3QGM2j">pic.twitter.com/3emd3QGM2j</a>
— Dr. Abdullah Abdullah (@DrabdullahCE) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrabdullahCE/status/1428260156450742280?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 19, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Taliban negotiator Anas Haqqani on Wednesday met Karzai in a separate meeting.

Ousted president of Afghanistan Ashraf Ghani has declared his support for discussions between the Taliban and other Afghan political leaders.

The Taliban have come full circle after being toppled from power by a US-led invasion in the wake of the September 11, 2001 attacks.

The group has pledged not to seek revenge against opponents and to respect women's rights, but the international community is sceptical about those promises.

As the Taliban moves to put a government in place, leader Haibatullah Akhundzada has ordered the release of "political detainees", telling provincial governors to free them "without any restrictions or conditions", the group said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Dr Abdullah Abdullah, chairman of Afghanistan's High Council for National Reconciliation (HCNR) met Taliban delegation on Wednesday. The meet took place at Abdullah Abdullah's residence.

Dr Abdullah Abdullah, chairman of Afghanistan's High Council for National Reconciliation (HCNR) met Taliban delegation on Wednesday. The meet took place at Abdullah Abdullah's residence. The Taliban delegation was led by Khalil Al-Rahman Haqqani. Former Afghanistan president Hamid Karzai was present at the meeting as well. Dr Abdullah on Wednesday tweeted about the meeting. He said that he discussed security of Afghan citizens in Kabul and across Afghanistan. During the meet, Dr Abdullah said that he asked the Taliban to priorotise security & protection of the life, property & dignity of the people. HE Dr Abdullah Abdullah, Chairman of HCNR @SapedarPalace, yesterday evening at his residence met Mr Khalil Al-Rahman Haqqani & his accompanying delegation of Taliban in Kabul. HE @KarzaiH, Mr Fazal Hadi Muslimyar & several other elders & personalties attend the meeting. 1/5 pic.twitter.com/3emd3QGM2j — Dr. Abdullah Abdullah (@DrabdullahCE) August 19, 2021 × Taliban negotiator Anas Haqqani on Wednesday met Karzai in a separate meeting. Ousted president of Afghanistan Ashraf Ghani has declared his support for discussions between the Taliban and other Afghan political leaders. The Taliban have come full circle after being toppled from power by a US-led invasion in the wake of the September 11, 2001 attacks. The group has pledged not to seek revenge against opponents and to respect women's rights, but the international community is sceptical about those promises. As the Taliban moves to put a government in place, leader Haibatullah Akhundzada has ordered the release of "political detainees", telling provincial governors to free them "without any restrictions or conditions", the group said. (With inputs from agencies)

Abdullah Abdullah meets Taliban delegation 

Al-Qaeda in Yemen on Wednesday congratulated the Taliban and vowed to continue their own military campaigns

"This victory and empowerment reveals to us that jihad and fighting represent the (Islamic law)-based, legal, and realistic way to restore rights (and) expel the invaders and occupiers," Al-Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula (AQAP) said in a statement.&nbsp;

"As for the game of democracy and working with simple pacifism, it is a deceptive mirage, a fleeting shadow, and a vicious circle that starts with a zero and ends with it," said the statement carried by SITE Intelligence group, which monitors jihadist networks worldwide.&nbsp;

Taliban had provided refuge to Al-Qaeda leader Osama Bin Laden during its rule in Afghanistan in late 90s

The US considers AQAP the most dangerous part of Al-Qaeda's global network. US has carried out drone strikes against its fighters in Yemen.

On Sunday, AQAP fighters in Yemen's central governorate of Bayda and southern province of Shabwa celebrated Taliban's return to power with fireworks and gunshots in the air, as per AFP

The hardline Sunni Muslim group has taken advantage of Yemen's war since 2014 between the internationally recognised government and the Iran-backed Huthi rebels, bolstering its presence in southern Yemen.

(With inputs from agencies)

Al-Qaeda in Yemen on Wednesday congratulated the Taliban and vowed to continue their own military campaigns "This victory and empowerment reveals to us that jihad and fighting represent the (Islamic law)-based, legal, and realistic way to restore rights (and) expel the invaders and occupiers," Al-Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula (AQAP) said in a statement.

Al-Qaeda in Yemen on Wednesday congratulated the Taliban and vowed to continue their own military campaigns "This victory and empowerment reveals to us that jihad and fighting represent the (Islamic law)-based, legal, and realistic way to restore rights (and) expel the invaders and occupiers," Al-Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula (AQAP) said in a statement. "As for the game of democracy and working with simple pacifism, it is a deceptive mirage, a fleeting shadow, and a vicious circle that starts with a zero and ends with it," said the statement carried by SITE Intelligence group, which monitors jihadist networks worldwide. Taliban had provided refuge to Al-Qaeda leader Osama Bin Laden during its rule in Afghanistan in late 90s The US considers AQAP the most dangerous part of Al-Qaeda's global network. US has carried out drone strikes against its fighters in Yemen. On Sunday, AQAP fighters in Yemen's central governorate of Bayda and southern province of Shabwa celebrated Taliban's return to power with fireworks and gunshots in the air, as per AFP The hardline Sunni Muslim group has taken advantage of Yemen's war since 2014 between the internationally recognised government and the Iran-backed Huthi rebels, bolstering its presence in southern Yemen. (With inputs from agencies)

Yemen Al-Qaeda congratulates Taliban, vows to continue Jihad

SITE monitoring group said on Wednesday that senior Taliban members met former Afghanistan President Hamid Karzai and top official Abdullah Abdullah.&nbsp;

Abdullah had led the government's peace council during failed talks between the warring sides in Qatar.

Taliban leaders "have said that they pardoned all former government officials and thus there is no need for anyone to leave the country," SITE said, after the Taliban published images of Karzai meeting Anas Haqqani, a member of the Taliban negotiating team.

The head of the hardline group, Haibatullah Akhundzada, meanwhile ordered the release of "political detainees", the Taliban tweeted.&nbsp;

"From tomorrow, all provincial governors must release all political detainees -- major and minor -- without any restrictions or conditions, and deliver them to their families," it said in Arabic.

The Taliban insisted Tuesday in their first press conference since seizing power at the weekend that they would not seek "revenge" and declared a general amnesty.

A government would soon be formed, spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid said, adding that the Taliban would "connect with all sides".

Former president Ashraf Ghani -- who succeeded Karzai in 2014 -- fled the country as the Taliban encircled Kabul, taking refuge in the United Arab Emirates.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

SITE monitoring group said on Wednesday that senior Taliban members met former Afghanistan President Hamid Karzai and top official Abdullah Abdullah. Abdullah had led the government's peace council during failed talks between the warring sides in Qatar.

SITE monitoring group said on Wednesday that senior Taliban members met former Afghanistan President Hamid Karzai and top official Abdullah Abdullah. Abdullah had led the government's peace council during failed talks between the warring sides in Qatar. Taliban leaders "have said that they pardoned all former government officials and thus there is no need for anyone to leave the country," SITE said, after the Taliban published images of Karzai meeting Anas Haqqani, a member of the Taliban negotiating team. The head of the hardline group, Haibatullah Akhundzada, meanwhile ordered the release of "political detainees", the Taliban tweeted. "From tomorrow, all provincial governors must release all political detainees -- major and minor -- without any restrictions or conditions, and deliver them to their families," it said in Arabic. The Taliban insisted Tuesday in their first press conference since seizing power at the weekend that they would not seek "revenge" and declared a general amnesty. A government would soon be formed, spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid said, adding that the Taliban would "connect with all sides". Former president Ashraf Ghani -- who succeeded Karzai in 2014 -- fled the country as the Taliban encircled Kabul, taking refuge in the United Arab Emirates. (With inputs from agencies)

Senior Taliban leaders meet ex-Afghan president Hamid Karzai: Report

The US said on Wednesday that it plans to make Covid vaccine booster shots widely available September 20 onwards. The decision has been taken in view of rise in infections due to Delta variant and also due to the data indicating diminishing protection from vaccines over time.

The officials are prepared to give third shot to Americans who completed their inoculation at least 8 months ago. &nbsp;

Initial booster doses will be given to Americans who received the two-dose vaccines, but U.S. health officials said they anticipate that people who received the single-dose Johnson &amp; Johnson shot, the other COVID-19 vaccine approved in the United States, will also need boosters. The United States did not begin administering J&amp;J shots until March.

The booster shots initially will focus upon healthcare workers, nursing home residents and older people, among the first groups to be vaccinated in late 2020 and early 2021, top U.S. health officials said in a joint statement.

The US said on Wednesday that it plans to make Covid vaccine booster shots widely available September 20 onwards. The decision has been taken in view of rise in infections due to Delta variant and also due to the data indicating diminishing protection from vaccines over time.

The US said on Wednesday that it plans to make Covid vaccine booster shots widely available September 20 onwards. The decision has been taken in view of rise in infections due to Delta variant and also due to the data indicating diminishing protection from vaccines over time. The officials are prepared to give third shot to Americans who completed their inoculation at least 8 months ago. Initial booster doses will be given to Americans who received the two-dose vaccines, but U.S. health officials said they anticipate that people who received the single-dose Johnson & Johnson shot, the other COVID-19 vaccine approved in the United States, will also need boosters. The United States did not begin administering J&J shots until March. The booster shots initially will focus upon healthcare workers, nursing home residents and older people, among the first groups to be vaccinated in late 2020 and early 2021, top U.S. health officials said in a joint statement.

US to begin offering COVID-19 vaccine booster shots in September

World Health Organisation on Wednesday warned against interruptions in humanitarian aid to Taliban-ruled Afghanistan. The WHO said that Afghanistan's fragile health system was vulnerable.

"Sustained access to humanitarian assistance, including essential health services and medical supplies, is a critical lifeline for millions of Afghans, and must not be interrupted," a statement said.

"Months of violence have taken a heavy toll on Afghanistan's fragile health system, which had already been facing shortages in essential supplies amid the Covid-19 pandemic," it added.

The WHO called on "all parties to respect and protect civilians, health workers, patients and health facilities".

WHO said that 26 health facilities were attacked between January and July this year. It added that 11 health workers were killed. This, said WHO, made security at health facilities a "major challenge"

Afghanistan fell after a meteoric Taliban offensive, and before the August 31 deadline set by US President Joe Biden for the last American soldiers to pull out.

Many aid donor countries remain on guard about the new regime in the country, where the Taliban ruled with an iron hand from 1996 to 2001.

The United States has said it expects the Taliban to respect human rights, especially those of women.

Germany, Finland and Sweden said on Tuesday that they would stop sending development aid to Afghanistan for now.

Both the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank have remained silent so far, but they could freeze financial assistance to the country.

(With inputs from agencies)

World Health Organisation on Wednesday warned against interruptions in humanitarian aid to Taliban-ruled Afghanistan. The WHO said that Afghanistan's fragile health system was vulnerable.

World Health Organisation on Wednesday warned against interruptions in humanitarian aid to Taliban-ruled Afghanistan. The WHO said that Afghanistan's fragile health system was vulnerable. "Sustained access to humanitarian assistance, including essential health services and medical supplies, is a critical lifeline for millions of Afghans, and must not be interrupted," a statement said. "Months of violence have taken a heavy toll on Afghanistan's fragile health system, which had already been facing shortages in essential supplies amid the Covid-19 pandemic," it added. The WHO called on "all parties to respect and protect civilians, health workers, patients and health facilities". WHO said that 26 health facilities were attacked between January and July this year. It added that 11 health workers were killed. This, said WHO, made security at health facilities a "major challenge" Afghanistan fell after a meteoric Taliban offensive, and before the August 31 deadline set by US President Joe Biden for the last American soldiers to pull out. Many aid donor countries remain on guard about the new regime in the country, where the Taliban ruled with an iron hand from 1996 to 2001. The United States has said it expects the Taliban to respect human rights, especially those of women. Germany, Finland and Sweden said on Tuesday that they would stop sending development aid to Afghanistan for now. Both the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank have remained silent so far, but they could freeze financial assistance to the country. (With inputs from agencies)

Humanitarian aid to Afghanistan must continue, says WHO

Author

Zee News Rajasthan

Editor

Manas Joshi

Home

Live Tv

Latest

World

India

Business

Entertainment

Sports

Opinions

Videos

Photos

Gravitas

Lifestyle

Science

Tech

Rajasthan News in Hindi: In-depth coverage of Rajasthan Crime, Political News, Education, Rajasthan Weather Update and Latest Rajasthan News on Zee News Rajasthan.