United Nations (UN) has sounded alarm over increasing teror threat in Afghanistan. The UN has said that threat from terror groups like Daesh and Al-Qaeda is increasing in many places in Afghanistan. It also said that security situation remained fragile in the country and there was uncertainty around the peace process.

Tolo News said that a new report by United Nations Security Council said that Daesh's Khorasan branch or ISIL-K had moved into Afghan provinces like Nuristan, Badghis, Sar-e-Pul, Baghlan, Badakhshan, Kunduz and Kabul. This, in spite of the loss in Kunar and Nangarhar provinces in 2020.

According to the report, the group has strengthened its positions in and around Kabul, where it conducts most of its attacks, targeting minorities, activists, government employees and personnel of the Afghan National Defense and Security Forces.

Most recently, Daesh had claimed responsibility for the brutal attack of June 8, wherein 10 humanitarian deminers working with HALO Trust in Baghlan Province were killed and 16 others were injured, it said.&nbsp;

As Per Tolo News, ISIL-K has prioritised recruitment and training of new supporters.

The report stated that the estimates of the strength of Daesh`s Khorasan branch range widely, with one member state reporting between 500 and 1,500 fighters and another stating that it may rise to as many as 10,000 over the medium term.

"One member state stressed that ISIL-K was largely underground and clandestine," the report said., adding: "Its leader, Shahab al-Muhajir, alias Sanaullah, cooperates with Sheikh Tamim, head of the al-Sadiq office."

The report said that Tamim and his office are tasked by the Daesh core group to oversee the network connecting the Khorasan branch with Daesh presences in the wider region.

Tolo News said that Al-Qaeda in the Indian Subcontinent (AQIS) operates under Taliban protection from Kandahar, Helmand, and Nimroz provinces.Since the death of Asim Umar in 2019, AQIS has been led by Osama Mahmood, the report said, adding that the group consists mainly of Afghan and Pakistani nationals, as also individuals from Bangladesh, India, and Myanmar.

On March 30, AQIS commander Dawlat Bek Tajiki (alias Abu Mohammad al-Tajiki) was killed by Afghan forces in the Gyan district of Paktika province.

"Al-Qaeda leader Ayman al-Zawahiri is assessed by the member states to be alive but ailing in Afghanistan. SayfAl Adl, his most likely successor, is reported to remain in the Islamic Republic of Iran," the report stated.

(With inputs from agencies)

United Nations (UN) has sounded alarm over increasing teror threat in Afghanistan. The UN has said that threat from terror groups like Daesh and Al-Qaeda is increasing in many places in Afghanistan.

United Nations (UN) has sounded alarm over increasing teror threat in Afghanistan. The UN has said that threat from terror groups like Daesh and Al-Qaeda is increasing in many places in Afghanistan. It also said that security situation remained fragile in the country and there was uncertainty around the peace process. Tolo News said that a new report by United Nations Security Council said that Daesh's Khorasan branch or ISIL-K had moved into Afghan provinces like Nuristan, Badghis, Sar-e-Pul, Baghlan, Badakhshan, Kunduz and Kabul. This, in spite of the loss in Kunar and Nangarhar provinces in 2020. According to the report, the group has strengthened its positions in and around Kabul, where it conducts most of its attacks, targeting minorities, activists, government employees and personnel of the Afghan National Defense and Security Forces. Most recently, Daesh had claimed responsibility for the brutal attack of June 8, wherein 10 humanitarian deminers working with HALO Trust in Baghlan Province were killed and 16 others were injured, it said. As Per Tolo News, ISIL-K has prioritised recruitment and training of new supporters. The report stated that the estimates of the strength of Daesh`s Khorasan branch range widely, with one member state reporting between 500 and 1,500 fighters and another stating that it may rise to as many as 10,000 over the medium term. "One member state stressed that ISIL-K was largely underground and clandestine," the report said., adding: "Its leader, Shahab al-Muhajir, alias Sanaullah, cooperates with Sheikh Tamim, head of the al-Sadiq office." The report said that Tamim and his office are tasked by the Daesh core group to oversee the network connecting the Khorasan branch with Daesh presences in the wider region. Tolo News said that Al-Qaeda in the Indian Subcontinent (AQIS) operates under Taliban protection from Kandahar, Helmand, and Nimroz provinces.Since the death of Asim Umar in 2019, AQIS has been led by Osama Mahmood, the report said, adding that the group consists mainly of Afghan and Pakistani nationals, as also individuals from Bangladesh, India, and Myanmar. On March 30, AQIS commander Dawlat Bek Tajiki (alias Abu Mohammad al-Tajiki) was killed by Afghan forces in the Gyan district of Paktika province. "Al-Qaeda leader Ayman al-Zawahiri is assessed by the member states to be alive but ailing in Afghanistan. SayfAl Adl, his most likely successor, is reported to remain in the Islamic Republic of Iran," the report stated. (With inputs from agencies)

UN sounds alarm over situation in Afghanistan: Report

Gunmen who had kidnapped 121 students in northwestern Nigeria have released another 28 teenagers, said AFP citing a school officials. The students were kidnapped in the country's northwestern region

"Twenty-eight have been released and we have reunited them with their parents," Joseph Hayab, one of the senior officials at the Bethel Baptist High School, told AFP. "In all, we have 34 children who have been freed and 87 are still held as hostages by the bandits."

Northwestern Nigeria has long been plagued by heavily armed gangs, known locally as bandits. These bandits have been looting, stealing cattle and abducting for ransom. Lately, they have targetted schools and colleges.

Heavily-armed gangs, known locally as bandits, have long plagued northwest and central Nigeria by looting, stealing cattle and abducting for ransom, but they have lately targeted schools and colleges.

Around 1,000 students and pupils have been abducted across Nigeria since December. Most have been released after negotiations with local officials, although some are still being held. 
President Muhammadu Buhari, who is under fire for growing insecurity in the country, has ordered the security forces to ensure safe and early release of all kidnap victims.

(Wth inputs from agencies)

Gunmen who had kidnapped 121 students in northwestern Nigeria have released another 28 teenagers, said AFP citing a school officials. The students were kidnapped in the country's northwestern region "Twenty-eight have been released and we have reunited them with their parents," Joseph Hayab, one of the senior officials at the Bethel Baptist High School, told AFP.

Gunmen who had kidnapped 121 students in northwestern Nigeria have released another 28 teenagers, said AFP citing a school officials. The students were kidnapped in the country's northwestern region "Twenty-eight have been released and we have reunited them with their parents," Joseph Hayab, one of the senior officials at the Bethel Baptist High School, told AFP. "In all, we have 34 children who have been freed and 87 are still held as hostages by the bandits." Northwestern Nigeria has long been plagued by heavily armed gangs, known locally as bandits. These bandits have been looting, stealing cattle and abducting for ransom. Lately, they have targetted schools and colleges. Heavily-armed gangs, known locally as bandits, have long plagued northwest and central Nigeria by looting, stealing cattle and abducting for ransom, but they have lately targeted schools and colleges. Around 1,000 students and pupils have been abducted across Nigeria since December. Most have been released after negotiations with local officials, although some are still being held. President Muhammadu Buhari, who is under fire for growing insecurity in the country, has ordered the security forces to ensure safe and early release of all kidnap victims. (Wth inputs from agencies)

Nigeria: Gunmen release 28 kidnapped students

Iraq's interior ministry said on Sunday that Islamic militants suspected to be behindn last week's suicide bombing had planned more attacks during Eid festival. The ministry has released photos of five suspects who have been arrested. These include three brothers. As per the official toll, 30 people were killed in the blast responsibility for which was taken by Islamic State

Iraqi security forces have dismantled "two terrorist networks in the provinces of Anbar and Kirkuk responsible for the July 19 attack in Sadr City", a poor Shiite district of Baghdad.&nbsp;

"They were planning other attacks in other parts of Baghdad and other provinces during Eid," a ministry statement said.&nbsp;

Iraqi Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhemi announced Saturday the arrest of the "terror cell" behind the Baghdad market bombing.

Iraqi television broadcast overnight the "confessions" of the five, who were dressed in yellow prison suits, a common practice in major criminal cases in Iraq.

The attack sparked revulsion and renewed fears about the reach of IS, which lost its last territory in Iraq after a gruelling campaign that ended in late 2017, but retains sleeper cells in remote desert and mountain areas.

The bombing hit the Al-Woheilat market in Sadr City, where many families were crowded on the eve of the Eid al-Adha, the most important Muslim holiday.&nbsp;

The announcement of the dismantling of the cell came on the eve of Kadhemi's departure for Washington, where he was to meet US President Joe Biden on Monday.

(With inputs from agencies)

Iraq's interior ministry said on Sunday that Islamic militants suspected to be behindn last week's suicide bombing had planned more attacks during Eid festival. The ministry has released photos of five suspects who have been arrested.

Iraq's interior ministry said on Sunday that Islamic militants suspected to be behindn last week's suicide bombing had planned more attacks during Eid festival. The ministry has released photos of five suspects who have been arrested. These include three brothers. As per the official toll, 30 people were killed in the blast responsibility for which was taken by Islamic State Iraqi security forces have dismantled "two terrorist networks in the provinces of Anbar and Kirkuk responsible for the July 19 attack in Sadr City", a poor Shiite district of Baghdad. "They were planning other attacks in other parts of Baghdad and other provinces during Eid," a ministry statement said. Iraqi Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhemi announced Saturday the arrest of the "terror cell" behind the Baghdad market bombing. Iraqi television broadcast overnight the "confessions" of the five, who were dressed in yellow prison suits, a common practice in major criminal cases in Iraq. The attack sparked revulsion and renewed fears about the reach of IS, which lost its last territory in Iraq after a gruelling campaign that ended in late 2017, but retains sleeper cells in remote desert and mountain areas. The bombing hit the Al-Woheilat market in Sadr City, where many families were crowded on the eve of the Eid al-Adha, the most important Muslim holiday. The announcement of the dismantling of the cell came on the eve of Kadhemi's departure for Washington, where he was to meet US President Joe Biden on Monday. (With inputs from agencies)

Militants planned another attack during Eid, says Iraq

Afghan officials said on Sunday that more 22,000 Afghan families had fled to escape fighting in Kandahar. It is a former bastion of the Taliban

"The fighting has displaced 22,000 families in the past one month in Kandahar," Dost Mohammad Daryab, head of the provincial refugee department, told AFP.

"They have all moved from the volatile districts of the city to safer areas."&nbsp;

Violence has surged in Afghanistan since May in the run up to the withdrawal of the US forces. Taliban has been on the offensive and now controls half of the district in Afghanistan.

On Sunday, fighting continued on the outskirts of Kandahar city.

"The negligence of some security forces, especially the police, has made way for the Taliban to come that close," Lalai Dastageeri, deputy governor of Kandahar province, told AFP.

"We are now trying to organise our security forces."

Local authorities had set up four camps for the displaced people who are estimated to be about 154,000.

Kandahar resident Hafiz Mohammad Akbar said his house had been taken over by the Taliban after he fled.

"They forced us to leave... I am now living with my 20-member family in a compound with no toilet," said Akbar.

Fears of fighting to increase

Residents expressed concerns the fighting might increase in days ahead.

"If they really want to fight, they should go to a desert and fight, not destroy the city," said Khan Mohammad, who moved to a camp with his family.

"Even if they win, they can't rule a ghost town."

Kandahar, with its 650,000 inhabitants, is the second-largest city in Afghanistan after Kabul.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Afghan officials said on Sunday that more 22,000 Afghan families had fled to escape fighting in Kandahar. It is a former bastion of the Taliban "The fighting has displaced 22,000 families in the past one month in Kandahar," Dost Mohammad Daryab, head of the provincial refugee department, told AFP.

Afghan officials said on Sunday that more 22,000 Afghan families had fled to escape fighting in Kandahar. It is a former bastion of the Taliban "The fighting has displaced 22,000 families in the past one month in Kandahar," Dost Mohammad Daryab, head of the provincial refugee department, told AFP. "They have all moved from the volatile districts of the city to safer areas." Violence has surged in Afghanistan since May in the run up to the withdrawal of the US forces. Taliban has been on the offensive and now controls half of the district in Afghanistan. On Sunday, fighting continued on the outskirts of Kandahar city. "The negligence of some security forces, especially the police, has made way for the Taliban to come that close," Lalai Dastageeri, deputy governor of Kandahar province, told AFP. "We are now trying to organise our security forces." Local authorities had set up four camps for the displaced people who are estimated to be about 154,000. Kandahar resident Hafiz Mohammad Akbar said his house had been taken over by the Taliban after he fled. "They forced us to leave... I am now living with my 20-member family in a compound with no toilet," said Akbar. Fears of fighting to increase Residents expressed concerns the fighting might increase in days ahead. "If they really want to fight, they should go to a desert and fight, not destroy the city," said Khan Mohammad, who moved to a camp with his family. "Even if they win, they can't rule a ghost town." Kandahar, with its 650,000 inhabitants, is the second-largest city in Afghanistan after Kabul. (With inputs from agencies)

Thousands of Afghan families flee from fighting in Kandahar

As French President Emmanuel Macron kicked off his first official trip to French Polynesia, he faced pressure to apologise for devastating impact of decades of nuclear testing.

Macron plans to address legacy of nuclear testing from 1966 to 1996 during his four day visit. He is also likely to discuss South Pacific territory's strategic role and threat posed by global warming.

Residents in the sprawling archipelago of more than 100 islands located midway between Mexico and Australia are hoping Macron apologises and confirms compensation for radiation victims.&nbsp;

The tests remain a source of deep resentment, seen as evidence of racist colonial attitudes that disregarded the lives of islanders.

After touching down Saturday, Macron, whose 2020 trip was postponed due to the pandemic, met hospital workers fighting Covid-19 in the semi-autonomous territory where many are wary of vaccines.

"I want to send a very strong message to call on everyone to get vaccinated," he said, adding: "When you're vaccinated, you're protected and you hardly spread the virus, or at least much less."

As French President Emmanuel Macron kicked off his first official trip to French Polynesia, he faced pressure to apologise for devastating impact of decades of nuclear testing.

As French President Emmanuel Macron kicked off his first official trip to French Polynesia, he faced pressure to apologise for devastating impact of decades of nuclear testing. Macron plans to address legacy of nuclear testing from 1966 to 1996 during his four day visit. He is also likely to discuss South Pacific territory's strategic role and threat posed by global warming. Residents in the sprawling archipelago of more than 100 islands located midway between Mexico and Australia are hoping Macron apologises and confirms compensation for radiation victims. The tests remain a source of deep resentment, seen as evidence of racist colonial attitudes that disregarded the lives of islanders. After touching down Saturday, Macron, whose 2020 trip was postponed due to the pandemic, met hospital workers fighting Covid-19 in the semi-autonomous territory where many are wary of vaccines. "I want to send a very strong message to call on everyone to get vaccinated," he said, adding: "When you're vaccinated, you're protected and you hardly spread the virus, or at least much less."

Macron under pressure to apologise for nuclear tests in French Polynesia

Seven Disaster relief teams (DRTs) of the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) have been providing humanitarian assistance and disaster relief to the flood-affected districts across India’s Western peninsular states. Coast Guard teams have been working with the respective district administrations in Maharashtra, Goa and Karnataka to mitigate the effect of incessant rainfall, that has led to floods.

According to the ICG, three of their teams in Unglijoog and Kharejoog islands in Karnataka have rescued and relocated 161 persons in distress, to safe locations. In Maharashtra, two DRTs (one each at Mahad and Chiplun) and a helicopter have rescued 52 persons so far. The ICG Air Base at Ratnagiri has also been made available for Indian Navy and Air Force assets for relief operations in Maharashtra.

In Goa, the ICG has pressed two DRTs into service at Ponda, in addition to launching four helicopter sorties to drop 200 food packets for the strander person

Seven Disaster relief teams (DRTs) of the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) have been providing humanitarian assistance and disaster relief to the flood-affected districts across India’s Western peninsular states.

Seven Disaster relief teams (DRTs) of the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) have been providing humanitarian assistance and disaster relief to the flood-affected districts across India’s Western peninsular states. Coast Guard teams have been working with the respective district administrations in Maharashtra, Goa and Karnataka to mitigate the effect of incessant rainfall, that has led to floods. According to the ICG, three of their teams in Unglijoog and Kharejoog islands in Karnataka have rescued and relocated 161 persons in distress, to safe locations. In Maharashtra, two DRTs (one each at Mahad and Chiplun) and a helicopter have rescued 52 persons so far. The ICG Air Base at Ratnagiri has also been made available for Indian Navy and Air Force assets for relief operations in Maharashtra. In Goa, the ICG has pressed two DRTs into service at Ponda, in addition to launching four helicopter sorties to drop 200 food packets for the strander person

Indian Coast Guard works in severals states to provide relief amid heavy rains

In a significant move, India has sent covid relief assistance to Bangladesh &amp; Indonesia. The development shows India's comeback as a supplier of medical products as impact of 2nd wave of covid crisis subsides.

For the first time Indian Railways' "Oxygen Express" will cross international border and supply 200 MTs of liquid oxygen in 10 containers to neighbouring Bangladesh. The operation is being undertaken by South Eastern Railway with the train leaving Tatanagar and reaching Benapole in Bangladesh on Sunday.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/United?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#United</a> in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Bangladesh?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Bangladesh</a>'s fight against <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Covid19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Covid19</a>,🇮🇳 <a href="https://twitter.com/RailMinIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RailMinIndia</a> enabling supply of 200 MT of Liquid Medical Oxygen through the 1st cross-border <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OxygenExpress?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OxygenExpress</a> from <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/India?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#India</a>. Reaching <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Benapole?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Benapole</a> 🇧🇩 tomorrow.<a href="https://twitter.com/BDMOFA?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BDMOFA</a><a href="https://twitter.com/albd1971?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@albd1971</a><a href="https://twitter.com/shah_farhad?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@shah_farhad</a><a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@meaindia</a><a href="https://twitter.com/IndianDiplomacy?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IndianDiplomacy</a><a href="https://twitter.com/AshwiniVaishnaw?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AshwiniVaishnaw</a> <a href="https://t.co/3zP9JSMGD7">pic.twitter.com/3zP9JSMGD7</a>
— India in Bangladesh (@ihcdhaka) <a href="https://twitter.com/ihcdhaka/status/1418870755249594371?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 24, 2021</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

A release by Indian Railways said,"This is the first time ever that the Oxygen Express is put into operation to neighbouring country."

Domestically, Indian Railways started Oxygen Express on April 24th when the country was struck by devastating Covid crisis earlier this year. According to railways, more than 35000 MTs of liquid oxygen was transported to 15 states &amp; around 480 Oxygen Expresses were operationalised.

Meanwhile, Indian Naval Ship Airavat reached Jakarta, Indonesia on Saturday. The ship has brought five cryogenic containers containing 100 MTs of liquid oxygen and 300 concentraters to support the Southeast Asian country's fight against Covid.

Indian envoy to Indonesia Manoj Kumar Bharti handed over essential medicines and relief materials to Bapak Eka Jusup Singka, Head of Crisis Centre, Indonesian Ministry of Health.

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INS Airavat carrying 100 MT Liquid Medical Oxygen &amp; 300 Oxygen concentrators arrives at Tanjung Priok port as a part of operation Samudra Setu-II of <a href="https://twitter.com/indiannavy?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@indiannavy</a>. A friend in need is a friend indeed. 🇮🇳🇮🇩 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/indiaindonesia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#indiaindonesia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MEAIndia</a>
— India in Indonesia (@IndianEmbJkt) <a href="https://twitter.com/IndianEmbJkt/status/1418825367935139840?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 24, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Currently the country has been struck by a devastating Covid crisis, similar to what India saw in April. In fact the famous tourist destination of Bali is running out of oxygen as cases surge.

A navy release said, "India and Indonesia enjoy close cultural and commercial ties. Both countries have been working together in the maritime domain towards a safer Indo-Pacific."

The naval ship Airavat whose primary role is to carry out amphibious operations had been deployed for relief operations across the Indian Ocean Region in the past as well. Both Indian and Indonesian navies have been carrying out bilateral exercises and coordinated patrols regularly.

Remember, both Bangladesh and Indonesia had reached out to India when it was stuck by Covid crisis. Bangladesh sent Remdisivir Injection, medicines and protective equipment. A large quantity of Remdisivir was used in Northeastern states of India bordering Bangladesh.

Indonesia had sent India oxygen concentrators, oxygen cylinders. All in all, India got relief from 52 countries which included various items from foreign governments, private companies, Indian associations abroad among other sources. Last year, New Delhi had sent HCQ to many countries and this year 95 countries got India-made vaccines. The vaccine export initative, called Vaccine Maitri initiative is currently on pause as India focuses on its domestic vaccination programme.

In a significant move, India has sent covid relief assistance to Bangladesh & Indonesia. The development shows India's comeback as a supplier of medical products as impact of 2nd wave of covid crisis subsides.

In a significant move, India has sent covid relief assistance to Bangladesh & Indonesia. The development shows India's comeback as a supplier of medical products as impact of 2nd wave of covid crisis subsides. For the first time Indian Railways' "Oxygen Express" will cross international border and supply 200 MTs of liquid oxygen in 10 containers to neighbouring Bangladesh. The operation is being undertaken by South Eastern Railway with the train leaving Tatanagar and reaching Benapole in Bangladesh on Sunday. #United in #Bangladesh's fight against #Covid19,🇮🇳 @RailMinIndia enabling supply of 200 MT of Liquid Medical Oxygen through the 1st cross-border #OxygenExpress from #India. Reaching #Benapole 🇧🇩 tomorrow.@BDMOFA@albd1971@shah_farhad@meaindia@IndianDiplomacy@AshwiniVaishnaw pic.twitter.com/3zP9JSMGD7 — India in Bangladesh (@ihcdhaka) July 24, 2021 × A release by Indian Railways said,"This is the first time ever that the Oxygen Express is put into operation to neighbouring country." Domestically, Indian Railways started Oxygen Express on April 24th when the country was struck by devastating Covid crisis earlier this year. According to railways, more than 35000 MTs of liquid oxygen was transported to 15 states & around 480 Oxygen Expresses were operationalised. Meanwhile, Indian Naval Ship Airavat reached Jakarta, Indonesia on Saturday. The ship has brought five cryogenic containers containing 100 MTs of liquid oxygen and 300 concentraters to support the Southeast Asian country's fight against Covid. Indian envoy to Indonesia Manoj Kumar Bharti handed over essential medicines and relief materials to Bapak Eka Jusup Singka, Head of Crisis Centre, Indonesian Ministry of Health. INS Airavat carrying 100 MT Liquid Medical Oxygen & 300 Oxygen concentrators arrives at Tanjung Priok port as a part of operation Samudra Setu-II of @indiannavy. A friend in need is a friend indeed. 🇮🇳🇮🇩 #indiaindonesia @MEAIndia — India in Indonesia (@IndianEmbJkt) July 24, 2021 × Currently the country has been struck by a devastating Covid crisis, similar to what India saw in April. In fact the famous tourist destination of Bali is running out of oxygen as cases surge. A navy release said, "India and Indonesia enjoy close cultural and commercial ties. Both countries have been working together in the maritime domain towards a safer Indo-Pacific." The naval ship Airavat whose primary role is to carry out amphibious operations had been deployed for relief operations across the Indian Ocean Region in the past as well. Both Indian and Indonesian navies have been carrying out bilateral exercises and coordinated patrols regularly. Remember, both Bangladesh and Indonesia had reached out to India when it was stuck by Covid crisis. Bangladesh sent Remdisivir Injection, medicines and protective equipment. A large quantity of Remdisivir was used in Northeastern states of India bordering Bangladesh. Indonesia had sent India oxygen concentrators, oxygen cylinders. All in all, India got relief from 52 countries which included various items from foreign governments, private companies, Indian associations abroad among other sources. Last year, New Delhi had sent HCQ to many countries and this year 95 countries got India-made vaccines. The vaccine export initative, called Vaccine Maitri initiative is currently on pause as India focuses on its domestic vaccination programme.

India sends Covid relief to Indonesia, Bangladesh

Mirabai Chanu has won India its first weightlifting silver medal&nbsp;in the ongoing Tokyo Olympics. It is a landmark victory for India and Chanu, as this is India's second Olympic weightlifting medal. Two decades earlier Indian athlete Karnam Malleswari had won the first Indian medal (Bronze) at the Sydney Olympic Games in the women's 69kg weight class.

In other news,&nbsp;in Afghanistan, a night curfew has been implemented across 31 of the country's 34 provinces. This was done in response to the increasing violence caused by the Taliban offensive. The insurgent group has taken control of large swathes of land in the country, capturing key border crossings with the neighbouring countries. Many provincial capitals have been encircled by them as well.

At the end of today's newsletter, we also bring for you the interesting reason why Jeff Bezos and Sir Richard Branson are not astronauts after all.

Click on headlines to read more

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-mirabai-chanu-wins-indias-first-medal-in-weightlifting-womens-49kg-category-400292">Tokyo Olympics: Mirabai Chanu wins India's first medal in Weightlifting Women's 49kg category</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2021/07/24/203681-mirabai-chanu-reuters.jpg" />In the women's weightlifting event, Saikhom Mirabai Chanu won 202kg silver after the first medal for India at Tokyo Olympics 2020.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-night-curfew-imposed-to-curb-taliban-advance-400374">Afghanistan: Night curfew imposed to curb Taliban advance</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2021/06/18/199023-untitled-design-94.jpg" />In response to the Taliban offensive, the Afghan authorities have imposed a night curfew in 31 of 34 provinces.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/drone-attack-on-iraqi-base-hosting-us-troops-400359">Drone attack on Iraqi base hosting US troops</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2021/06/07/197555-drones.jpg" />According to a&nbsp;US-led coalition in Iraq, an attack on a military base in Iraqi Kurdistan hosting US troops was carried out by a drone, no casualties were reported.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-government-is-letting-people-get-infected-by-covid-aide-claims-400358">UK government is letting people get infected by Covid, aide claims</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2021/07/19/202881-uk-pubs-6.jpg" />A UK medical adviser has alleged that the British government has reopened the economy so that people get infected by Covid and develop herd immunity.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/engage-in-serious-negotiations-us-tells-taliban-400335">Engage in ‘serious negotiations’, US tells Taliban</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/08/24/156235-taliban-1.jpg" />In response to the Taliban's assertion that it will not go into ceasefire and peace talks until a new government is in place in Afghanistan, the US has called on the group to engage in serious negotiations.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tokyo-2020-south-korean-broadcaster-shows-offensive-images-to-introduce-countries-400341">Tokyo 2020: South Korean broadcaster shows offensive images to introduce countries</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2021/07/23/203541-untitled-design-2.jpg" />A South Korean broadcaster has apologised for using offensive images and captions to represent participant countries in the&nbsp;Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/baghdad-blast-iraq-pm-says-suspects-arrested-400391">Baghdad blast: Iraq PM says suspects arrested</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2021/07/24/203724-iraq-blast.jpg" />On Saturday, Iraq's Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhemi announced that terrorists suspected of being behind the Baghdad suicide bombing had been arrested.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-day-for-samoa-as-government-gets-to-work-months-late-400361">'New day' for Samoa as government gets to work months late</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2021/07/23/203613-untitled-design-2021-07-23t212630147.jpg" />

After a ruling by Samoa's top court ended her nation's 15-week constitutional crisis, Samoa's first female prime minister announced a "new day" on Saturday after her government began work.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thousands-to-join-budapest-pride-march-in-protest-over-new-anti-lgbt-law-400345">Thousands to join Budapest Pride march in protest over new anti-LGBT law</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/06/28/147013-gay-pride-1.jpg" />On Saturday, tens of thousands of Hungarians plan to march in support of LGBT individuals and to protest a law banning the use of materials in schools that promote homosexuality and gender reassignment.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-per-us-jeff-bezos-and-sir-richard-branson-not-yet-astronauts-400332">As per US Jeff Bezos and Sir Richard Branson not yet astronauts</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2021/07/18/202790-untitled-design-2021-07-18t153118716.jpg" />From the perspective of the United States government, Jeff Bezos and Sir Richard Branson are not yet astronauts as the New Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) requires astronaut candidates to be a member of the flight crew.

Mirabai Chanu has won India its first weightlifting silver medal in the ongoing Tokyo Olympics. It is a landmark victory for India and Chanu, as this is India's second Olympic weightlifting medal.

Mirabai Chanu has won India its first weightlifting silver medal in the ongoing Tokyo Olympics. It is a landmark victory for India and Chanu, as this is India's second Olympic weightlifting medal. Two decades earlier Indian athlete Karnam Malleswari had won the first Indian medal (Bronze) at the Sydney Olympic Games in the women's 69kg weight class. In other news, in Afghanistan, a night curfew has been implemented across 31 of the country's 34 provinces. This was done in response to the increasing violence caused by the Taliban offensive. The insurgent group has taken control of large swathes of land in the country, capturing key border crossings with the neighbouring countries. Many provincial capitals have been encircled by them as well. At the end of today's newsletter, we also bring for you the interesting reason why Jeff Bezos and Sir Richard Branson are not astronauts after all. Click on headlines to read more Tokyo Olympics: Mirabai Chanu wins India's first medal in Weightlifting Women's 49kg category In the women's weightlifting event, Saikhom Mirabai Chanu won 202kg silver after the first medal for India at Tokyo Olympics 2020. Afghanistan: Night curfew imposed to curb Taliban advance In response to the Taliban offensive, the Afghan authorities have imposed a night curfew in 31 of 34 provinces. Drone attack on Iraqi base hosting US troops According to a US-led coalition in Iraq, an attack on a military base in Iraqi Kurdistan hosting US troops was carried out by a drone, no casualties were reported. UK government is letting people get infected by Covid, aide claims A UK medical adviser has alleged that the British government has reopened the economy so that people get infected by Covid and develop herd immunity. Engage in ‘serious negotiations’, US tells Taliban In response to the Taliban's assertion that it will not go into ceasefire and peace talks until a new government is in place in Afghanistan, the US has called on the group to engage in serious negotiations. Tokyo 2020: South Korean broadcaster shows offensive images to introduce countries A South Korean broadcaster has apologised for using offensive images and captions to represent participant countries in the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games. Baghdad blast: Iraq PM says suspects arrested On Saturday, Iraq's Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhemi announced that terrorists suspected of being behind the Baghdad suicide bombing had been arrested. 'New day' for Samoa as government gets to work months late After a ruling by Samoa's top court ended her nation's 15-week constitutional crisis, Samoa's first female prime minister announced a "new day" on Saturday after her government began work. Thousands to join Budapest Pride march in protest over new anti-LGBT law On Saturday, tens of thousands of Hungarians plan to march in support of LGBT individuals and to protest a law banning the use of materials in schools that promote homosexuality and gender reassignment. As per US Jeff Bezos and Sir Richard Branson not yet astronauts From the perspective of the United States government, Jeff Bezos and Sir Richard Branson are not yet astronauts as the New Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) requires astronaut candidates to be a member of the flight crew.

Top 10 world news: Mirabai Chanu wins India its 1st medal at the 2020 Olympics, Night curfew imposed in Afghanistan & more

Russian defence ministry said on Saturday that it had dispatched nearly 100 tonnes of humanitarian aid to Cuba. This has come after unprecedented street protests over Cuba's worst economic crisis in decades. Russian defence ministry said that the aid was dispatched after Russian President Vladimir Putin's direct order.

Two An-124 cargo planes carrying more than 88 tonnes of humanitarian support took off from a military airport near Moscow, a statement said.

The cargo included "food, personal protective equipment and more than one million medical masks," it said.

The US this week imposed sanctions on Cuba's defence minister for quashing peaceful protests. Sanctions have also been slapped against a special forces unit.

President Joe Biden warned the measure was "just the beginning" of punitive measures against Havana.

On July 11 and 12, thousands of Cubans took to the streets in 40 cities shouting "Freedom," "Down with the dictatorship," and "We're hungry."

One person has died and more than 100 have been arrested since the protests broke out.

Russia earlier this month warned against any "outside interference" in Cuba, an important Cold War ally.

(With inputs from agencies)

Russian defence ministry said on Saturday that it had dispatched nearly 100 tonnes of humanitarian aid to Cuba. This has come after unprecedented street protests over Cuba's worst economic crisis in decades.

Russian defence ministry said on Saturday that it had dispatched nearly 100 tonnes of humanitarian aid to Cuba. This has come after unprecedented street protests over Cuba's worst economic crisis in decades. Russian defence ministry said that the aid was dispatched after Russian President Vladimir Putin's direct order. Two An-124 cargo planes carrying more than 88 tonnes of humanitarian support took off from a military airport near Moscow, a statement said. The cargo included "food, personal protective equipment and more than one million medical masks," it said. The US this week imposed sanctions on Cuba's defence minister for quashing peaceful protests. Sanctions have also been slapped against a special forces unit. President Joe Biden warned the measure was "just the beginning" of punitive measures against Havana. On July 11 and 12, thousands of Cubans took to the streets in 40 cities shouting "Freedom," "Down with the dictatorship," and "We're hungry." One person has died and more than 100 have been arrested since the protests broke out. Russia earlier this month warned against any "outside interference" in Cuba, an important Cold War ally. (With inputs from agencies)

Cuba: Russia sends help to Communist nation after protests

Iraq Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhemi announced on Saturday that members of a 'terrorist cell' who are suspected of being behind Baghdad suicide bombing have been arrested. The blast had taken place five days ago and claimed over 30 lives.

"We have arrested all the members of the cowardly terrorist cell that planned and perpetrated the attack on Al-Woheilat market" in Sadr City, a Shiite suburb in the capital, "and they will be put before a judge today," Kadhemi said on Twitter.&nbsp;

The blast had taken place on the eve of Muslim holiday of Eid al-Adha. The blast ripped through a crowded Baghdad market. The responsibility of the attack was claimed by the Islamic State.

The blast had sparked revulsion and renewed fears about the reach of the IS, which lost its last territory in Iraq after a gruelling campaign that ended in late 2017, but retains sleeper cells in remote desert and mountain areas.

The Sunni Muslim jihadists claimed on the Telegram messenger service that an IS suicide bomber detonated an explosives belt in the Woheilat market of northeast Baghdad's Shiite district of Sadr City that was busy with Eid shoppers.

In the panic and chaos of the attack, screams of terror and anguish filled the air. When the smoke cleared, human remains lay strewn amid scattered sandals, market produce and the charred debris of stalls.

(With inouts from agencies)

Iraq Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhemi announced on Saturday that members of a 'terrorist cell' who are suspected of being behind Baghdad suicide bombing have been arrested.

Iraq Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhemi announced on Saturday that members of a 'terrorist cell' who are suspected of being behind Baghdad suicide bombing have been arrested. The blast had taken place five days ago and claimed over 30 lives. "We have arrested all the members of the cowardly terrorist cell that planned and perpetrated the attack on Al-Woheilat market" in Sadr City, a Shiite suburb in the capital, "and they will be put before a judge today," Kadhemi said on Twitter. The blast had taken place on the eve of Muslim holiday of Eid al-Adha. The blast ripped through a crowded Baghdad market. The responsibility of the attack was claimed by the Islamic State. The blast had sparked revulsion and renewed fears about the reach of the IS, which lost its last territory in Iraq after a gruelling campaign that ended in late 2017, but retains sleeper cells in remote desert and mountain areas. The Sunni Muslim jihadists claimed on the Telegram messenger service that an IS suicide bomber detonated an explosives belt in the Woheilat market of northeast Baghdad's Shiite district of Sadr City that was busy with Eid shoppers. In the panic and chaos of the attack, screams of terror and anguish filled the air. When the smoke cleared, human remains lay strewn amid scattered sandals, market produce and the charred debris of stalls. (With inouts from agencies)

Baghdad blast: Iraq PM says suspects arrested

Afghan authorities imposed a night curfew across 31 of country's 34 provinces in order to curb increasing violence due to the Taliban offensive.

The Taliban, who have mounted major offensives across the country have taken control of large swathes of land in the country. The insurgents have also captured key border crossings with the neighbouring countries. They have also encircled several provincial capitals.

"To curb violence and limit the Taliban movements a night curfew has been imposed in 31 provinces across the country," except in Kabul, Panjshir and Nangarhar, the interior ministry said in a statement.

Curfew will be effective from 10 pm to 4 am local time.

With the withdrawal of American-led foreign forces all but complete, the resurgent Taliban now controls about half of Afghanistan's roughly 400 districts.

There was a brief lull in violence during Muslim holidays of Eid al-Adha but fighting continued again. The authorities claim that they have killed more than 260 Taliban fighters in the past 24 hours across several provinces.

Both the authorities and the Taliban exaggerate their claims which cannot be independently verified. 
As the fighting raged in recent weeks, the US military was forced to carry out air strikes "to support" Afghan troops to repel Taliban offensives even as its overall withdrawal continues, Pentagon spokesman John Kirby said on Thursday.

Experts say a lack of regular US air support since May to Afghan forces on the ground is a key factor in government troops losing lot of territory to the Taliban.

Late on Friday, the Taliban warned the US military against carrying out air strikes.

"It is a clear violation of the signed agreement that will have consequences," the Taliban said in a statement, referring to a landmark deal between Washington and the insurgents last year that paved the way for the withdrawal of foreign forces.

The Taliban also warned the Afghan government against launching any offensive, saying the group will "strongly defend their territories and not remain in a defensive posture if the enemy insists upon war".

The Taliban had said earlier this week that its fighters were in a "defensive" posture to mark the Eid al-Adha holidays that ended on Thursday.

Earlier this week, the chairman of the US joint chiefs of staff General Mark Milley said the Taliban appear to have "strategic momentum" on the battlefield.

With the militants putting pressure on around half of the country's provincial capitals, Afghan troops are in the process of "consolidating their forces" to protect those major urban centres, Milley added.

(With inputs from agencies)

Afghan authorities imposed a night curfew across 31 of country's 34 provinces in order to curb increasing violence due to the Taliban offensive. The Taliban, who have mounted major offensives across the country have taken control of large swathes of land in the country.

Afghan authorities imposed a night curfew across 31 of country's 34 provinces in order to curb increasing violence due to the Taliban offensive. The Taliban, who have mounted major offensives across the country have taken control of large swathes of land in the country. The insurgents have also captured key border crossings with the neighbouring countries. They have also encircled several provincial capitals. "To curb violence and limit the Taliban movements a night curfew has been imposed in 31 provinces across the country," except in Kabul, Panjshir and Nangarhar, the interior ministry said in a statement. Curfew will be effective from 10 pm to 4 am local time. With the withdrawal of American-led foreign forces all but complete, the resurgent Taliban now controls about half of Afghanistan's roughly 400 districts. There was a brief lull in violence during Muslim holidays of Eid al-Adha but fighting continued again. The authorities claim that they have killed more than 260 Taliban fighters in the past 24 hours across several provinces. Both the authorities and the Taliban exaggerate their claims which cannot be independently verified. As the fighting raged in recent weeks, the US military was forced to carry out air strikes "to support" Afghan troops to repel Taliban offensives even as its overall withdrawal continues, Pentagon spokesman John Kirby said on Thursday. Experts say a lack of regular US air support since May to Afghan forces on the ground is a key factor in government troops losing lot of territory to the Taliban. Late on Friday, the Taliban warned the US military against carrying out air strikes. "It is a clear violation of the signed agreement that will have consequences," the Taliban said in a statement, referring to a landmark deal between Washington and the insurgents last year that paved the way for the withdrawal of foreign forces. The Taliban also warned the Afghan government against launching any offensive, saying the group will "strongly defend their territories and not remain in a defensive posture if the enemy insists upon war". The Taliban had said earlier this week that its fighters were in a "defensive" posture to mark the Eid al-Adha holidays that ended on Thursday. Earlier this week, the chairman of the US joint chiefs of staff General Mark Milley said the Taliban appear to have "strategic momentum" on the battlefield. With the militants putting pressure on around half of the country's provincial capitals, Afghan troops are in the process of "consolidating their forces" to protect those major urban centres, Milley added. (With inputs from agencies)

Afghanistan: Night curfew imposed to curb Taliban advance

A US military veteran is trekking 2000 miles (3219 km) US-Mexico border to draw attention to plight of veterans who were sent back to their country of birth. Ramon Castro, the veteran trekking along the border and meeting deported US veterans living along the US-Mexican border. As he met them he realised that but for a piece of paper proving his citizenship, he could have been one of them.

Castro says that even when former veterans are deported back due to infractions like drug use, a large number of the cases are associated with mental health issues.

Between 2013 and 2018, about 250 veterans were deported or placed in deportation proceedings, according to a Government Accountability Office report. Advocates say the total number of deported veterans may be far higher.

Although Castro was born in the United States, his family has sprawled across both sides of the desert borderlands for generations and he lived briefly in Mexico as a child, he told Reuters in an interview on Wednesday about 20 miles east of El Paso, Texas.

Castro served two enlistments in the Marine Corps, including a deployment to Kuwait during the Iraq war.

He says that after his discharge, memories of missiles hurtling at him lingered. Aas a coping mechanism, he said that he turned to alcohol and soon found himself in bar fights.

The behaviour never landed Castro in serious legal trouble - a privilege he knew his non-US-citizen fellow service members did not share.

Castro started his march at Friendship Park in San Ysidro, California, and plans to keep walking until he reaches the easternmost tip of the U.S.-Mexico border, near Brownsville, Texas.

A few days after Castro began the journey, the Biden administration announced a new initiative aimed at allowing some deported veterans to return to the United States.

(With inputs from agencies)

A US military veteran is trekking 2000 miles (3219 km) US-Mexico border to draw attention to plight of veterans who were sent back to their country of birth. Ramon Castro, the veteran trekking along the border and meeting deported US veterans living along the US-Mexican border.

A US military veteran is trekking 2000 miles (3219 km) US-Mexico border to draw attention to plight of veterans who were sent back to their country of birth. Ramon Castro, the veteran trekking along the border and meeting deported US veterans living along the US-Mexican border. As he met them he realised that but for a piece of paper proving his citizenship, he could have been one of them. Castro says that even when former veterans are deported back due to infractions like drug use, a large number of the cases are associated with mental health issues. Between 2013 and 2018, about 250 veterans were deported or placed in deportation proceedings, according to a Government Accountability Office report. Advocates say the total number of deported veterans may be far higher. Although Castro was born in the United States, his family has sprawled across both sides of the desert borderlands for generations and he lived briefly in Mexico as a child, he told Reuters in an interview on Wednesday about 20 miles east of El Paso, Texas. Castro served two enlistments in the Marine Corps, including a deployment to Kuwait during the Iraq war. He says that after his discharge, memories of missiles hurtling at him lingered. Aas a coping mechanism, he said that he turned to alcohol and soon found himself in bar fights. The behaviour never landed Castro in serious legal trouble - a privilege he knew his non-US-citizen fellow service members did not share. Castro started his march at Friendship Park in San Ysidro, California, and plans to keep walking until he reaches the easternmost tip of the U.S.-Mexico border, near Brownsville, Texas. A few days after Castro began the journey, the Biden administration announced a new initiative aimed at allowing some deported veterans to return to the United States. (With inputs from agencies)

Iraq war veteran walks US-Mexico border, protests deportation of veterans

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