<p>In yet another sign of Pakistan's weakening economy, the South Asian country's citizens are now facing difficulties to secure new passports due to scarcity of lamination paper.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Reports in the Pakistani media cited instances of students facing an extraordinary delay in obtaining their passports amid looming admission deadlines overseas.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Thousands of Pakistanis who need a passport for&nbsp;travelling abroad for study, work&nbsp;or leisure remain stuck, with no end to their ordeal in sight.</p>

<p>"I was all set to move to Dubai for work soon. My family and I were beyond ecstatic that our fortunes would finally change but the mismanagement of Directorate General of Immigration &amp; Passports (DGI&amp;P) seems to have cost me my golden ticket out poverty and this country," an individual who went by &nbsp;last name Gul, was quoted as saying by the Express Tribune.</p>

<p>"My student visa for Italy was recently approved and I had to be in the country in October. However, the unavailability of a passport robbed me of an opportunity to leave," Hira, a potential student in Italy, was quoted as saying by the publication.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Pakistan has had a history of such inefficiencies in issuing passports to its citizens in the past as well.</p>

<p>In 2013, passport printing came to a similar halt due to the DGI&amp;P owing money to printers and a lack of lamination papers, The Express Tribune reported.</p>

<p>"The situation will soon be under control and passport issuance will continue as normal," Qadir Yar Tiwana, the Director General for Media of the Ministry of Interior, the parent ministry of DGI&amp;P, was quoted as saying by the Express Tribune.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But Pakistani residents do not agree with Tiwana's assertions.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/dont-blame-afghanistan-for-your-failures-taliban-shoot-back-at-pakistan-656727">Don't blame Afghanistan for your failures: Taliban shoot back at Pakistan</a></strong></p>

<p>The Express Tribune report&nbsp;quoted&nbsp;Faizan, a resident of North Nazimabad in Karachi, a city which receives around 3,000 passport applications every day as per official estimates.</p>

<p>"I submitted my application more than 2 months ago and have not received my passport yet," he said.<br />
<br />
"My passport has not arrived to date and I have had to cancel all my plans for travelling abroad," an irate Amir, a resident of the Gulshan-e-Iqbal area of Karachi said.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Protests at Afghanistan-Pakistan border, anger over new rules for Afghan visitors | World News| WION</strong></p>

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<p>A senior officer of the passport office in Peshawar told The Express Tribune&nbsp;that they could presently only process 12 to 13 passports per day as compared to 3,000 to 4,000 passports per day previously.</p>

<p>"People may have to wait for another month or two," the official was quoted as saying by the paper on the condition of anonymity.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


In yet another sign of Pakistan's weakening economy, the South Asian country's citizens are now facing difficulties to secure new passports due to scarcity of lamination paper.

In yet another sign of Pakistan's weakening economy, the South Asian country's citizens are now facing difficulties to secure new passports due to scarcity of lamination paper. Reports in the Pakistani media cited instances of students facing an extraordinary delay in obtaining their passports amid looming admission deadlines overseas. Thousands of Pakistanis who need a passport for travelling abroad for study, work or leisure remain stuck, with no end to their ordeal in sight. "I was all set to move to Dubai for work soon. My family and I were beyond ecstatic that our fortunes would finally change but the mismanagement of Directorate General of Immigration & Passports (DGI&P) seems to have cost me my golden ticket out poverty and this country," an individual who went by last name Gul, was quoted as saying by the Express Tribune. "My student visa for Italy was recently approved and I had to be in the country in October. However, the unavailability of a passport robbed me of an opportunity to leave," Hira, a potential student in Italy, was quoted as saying by the publication. Pakistan has had a history of such inefficiencies in issuing passports to its citizens in the past as well. In 2013, passport printing came to a similar halt due to the DGI&P owing money to printers and a lack of lamination papers, The Express Tribune reported. "The situation will soon be under control and passport issuance will continue as normal," Qadir Yar Tiwana, the Director General for Media of the Ministry of Interior, the parent ministry of DGI&P, was quoted as saying by the Express Tribune. But Pakistani residents do not agree with Tiwana's assertions. Also read | Don't blame Afghanistan for your failures: Taliban shoot back at Pakistan The Express Tribune report quoted Faizan, a resident of North Nazimabad in Karachi, a city which receives around 3,000 passport applications every day as per official estimates. "I submitted my application more than 2 months ago and have not received my passport yet," he said. "My passport has not arrived to date and I have had to cancel all my plans for travelling abroad," an irate Amir, a resident of the Gulshan-e-Iqbal area of Karachi said. Also watch | Protests at Afghanistan-Pakistan border, anger over new rules for Afghan visitors | World News| WION × A senior officer of the passport office in Peshawar told The Express Tribune that they could presently only process 12 to 13 passports per day as compared to 3,000 to 4,000 passports per day previously. "People may have to wait for another month or two," the official was quoted as saying by the paper on the condition of anonymity. (With inputs from agencies)

No passports for Pakistanis as country now faces shortage of lamination paper

<p>As Pakistan's onslaught on Afghan refugees living in the country since as early as the late 1970s continues, Islamabad's security establishment was taken aback by a startling demonstration of Tehreek-e-Jihad's capability to wreck havoc.</p>

<p>But now, questions are being raised if Pakistani authorities are playing down the loss of lives and damage caused by the terror group's strike a training facility of the Pakistan Air Force in Punjab province's Mianwali on Saturday (Nov 4).&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/tehreek-e-jihad-pakistan-the-latest-armed-jihad-challenge-for-indias-terror-exporting-neighbour-655280">Tehreek-e-Jihad Pakistan: The latest 'armed jihad' challenge for India's terror exporting neighbour</a></strong></p>

<p>Shortly after the attack at the MM Alam airbase, Pakistan's military public relations wing&nbsp;claimed that no substantial harm was done.</p>

<p>But this does not appear to be the case any longer, say the reports appearing in a section of media.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ayesha Sidiqa, Senior Fellow at the Department of War Studies at King’s College, London said sources told her&nbsp;that the Pakistan Air Force and Pakistan's intelligence agency ISI are hiding information, and that "actual loss is 14 aircraft and 35 military men".&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-claims-60-pc-rise-in-terror-after-investing-in-afghanistans-taliban-regime-656479">After backing Taliban for years, Pakistan now claims 60 pc rise in terror from Afghanistan</a></strong></p>

<p>"These figures indicate the capacity of militants. There have been calls for beefing up capacity to secure these bases, including equipping guards with night vision devices, thermal imaging sights and better equipment," Sidiqa wrote in an article in The Print website.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Separately, an India Today report, based on an analysis of satellite images of the attacked Pakistani military site, said that there was more damage at the airbase than officially acknowledged. &nbsp;</p>

<p>"The imagery shows at least nine clear signs of damage to the operational sheds at the base on the day of the attack. Given the substantial size of these structures, it would require a significantly powerful explosion beneath them to cause such visible roof damage, thereby posing an increased risk to the aircraft stored inside," the report claimed.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>How was this attack different?</strong></h2>

<p>The attack was the first demonstration of militants' ability to attack a premier military site, years after Pakistani military had claimed that it had defeated terrorism.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Major security lapse at the Pakistan's Mianwali airbase</strong></p>

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<p>The jihadist attackers managed to strike a hard target in Punjab, considered the 'safest territory'.</p>

<p>The attack's responsibility was claimed by Tehreek-e-Jihad Pakistan (TJP) group, a Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) offshoot that propped up in February 2023.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Past&nbsp;attacks on Pakistan's military sites</strong></h2>

<p>The TTP and its various components have attacked both soft and hard targets in Pakistan, including the Army General Headquarters (GHQ) in 2009, the Mehran naval airbase in 2011, the Minhas air base in 2012, and the Badaber non-flying airbase in 2015.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from the agencies)</em></p>


As Pakistan's onslaught on Afghan refugees living in the country since as early as the late 1970s continues, Islamabad's security establishment was taken aback by a startling demonstration of Tehreek-e-Jihad's capability to wreck havoc.

As Pakistan's onslaught on Afghan refugees living in the country since as early as the late 1970s continues, Islamabad's security establishment was taken aback by a startling demonstration of Tehreek-e-Jihad's capability to wreck havoc. But now, questions are being raised if Pakistani authorities are playing down the loss of lives and damage caused by the terror group's strike a training facility of the Pakistan Air Force in Punjab province's Mianwali on Saturday (Nov 4). Also read | Tehreek-e-Jihad Pakistan: The latest 'armed jihad' challenge for India's terror exporting neighbour Shortly after the attack at the MM Alam airbase, Pakistan's military public relations wing claimed that no substantial harm was done. But this does not appear to be the case any longer, say the reports appearing in a section of media. Ayesha Sidiqa, Senior Fellow at the Department of War Studies at King’s College, London said sources told her that the Pakistan Air Force and Pakistan's intelligence agency ISI are hiding information, and that "actual loss is 14 aircraft and 35 military men". Also read | After backing Taliban for years, Pakistan now claims 60 pc rise in terror from Afghanistan "These figures indicate the capacity of militants. There have been calls for beefing up capacity to secure these bases, including equipping guards with night vision devices, thermal imaging sights and better equipment," Sidiqa wrote in an article in The Print website. Separately, an India Today report, based on an analysis of satellite images of the attacked Pakistani military site, said that there was more damage at the airbase than officially acknowledged. "The imagery shows at least nine clear signs of damage to the operational sheds at the base on the day of the attack. Given the substantial size of these structures, it would require a significantly powerful explosion beneath them to cause such visible roof damage, thereby posing an increased risk to the aircraft stored inside," the report claimed. How was this attack different? The attack was the first demonstration of militants' ability to attack a premier military site, years after Pakistani military had claimed that it had defeated terrorism. Also watch | Major security lapse at the Pakistan's Mianwali airbase × The jihadist attackers managed to strike a hard target in Punjab, considered the 'safest territory'. The attack's responsibility was claimed by Tehreek-e-Jihad Pakistan (TJP) group, a Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) offshoot that propped up in February 2023. Past attacks on Pakistan's military sites The TTP and its various components have attacked both soft and hard targets in Pakistan, including the Army General Headquarters (GHQ) in 2009, the Mehran naval airbase in 2011, the Minhas air base in 2012, and the Badaber non-flying airbase in 2015. (With inputs from the agencies)

Mianwali airbase attack: Pakistan suffered more losses than it officially acknowledged, say reports

<p>The Republican-controlled U.S. House Oversight Committee said on Wednesday it has subpoenaed President Joe Biden's son, Hunter Biden, and brother, James Biden, to appear for depositions, in an escalation of its impeachment inquiry into the Democrat.</p>

<p>House Republicans launched an impeachment inquiry in September, following months of probes. They allege that Biden and his family have personally profited from policy decisions made by Biden when he was vice president during former President Barack Obama's administration.</p>

<p>James Biden could not immediately be reached for comment.</p>

<p>Abbe Lowell, Hunter Biden's lawyer, called the subpoena "yet another political stunt."</p>

<p>"Nevertheless, Hunter is eager to have the opportunity, in a public forum and at the right time, to discuss these matters with the Committee," Lowell said in a statement.</p>

<p>Devon Archer, a former business associate of Hunter Biden, told the House Oversight Committee earlier this year that the younger Biden sought to create "an illusion of access to his father" and put his father on the phone with foreign associates "maybe 20 times" over the course of Archer's business relationship with Hunter Biden.</p>

<p>White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre on Wednesday called the investigation a "smear campaign." The investigation "has gone on for a year now and has turned up zero evidence against the president," she said.</p>

<p>The impeachment inquiry has been publicly supported by former President Donald Trump, who is the frontrunner for the Republican nomination to take on Biden in the 2024 election.</p>

<p>In addition to the subpoenas to Hunter Biden and James Biden, the committee has issued a subpoena to Rob Walker, a former business partner of Hunter Biden.</p>

<p>The committee has also asked four other members of Biden's family to appear, as well as another former business partner, Tony Bobulinski. The committee said it would send additional subpoenas and interview requests later in the week.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;US: Hunter Biden special counsel denies political meddling in testimony to Congress</strong></p>

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<p>The committee has previously received financial records for members of the family.</p>

<p>The House Oversight Committee held a public hearing related to the inquiry in September, which was a review of material related to foreign business ventures by Hunter Biden, which Republicans say indicate that the president's family members were selling access.</p>

<p>Hunter Biden, 53, has publicly discussed his past substance abuse and never held a position in the White House or on his father's campaign.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hunter-biden-admits-receiving-664k-from-company-backed-by-chinese-communist-party-620344">Hunter Biden admits receiving $664K from company backed by Chinese Communist Party</a></strong></p>

<p>Trump was the first U.S. president to be impeached twice. He was acquitted by the Senate both times. Trump is facing four criminal indictments for charges related to his business activities, alleged mishandling of classified documents and alleged attempts to overturn the 2020 election.</p>

<p>It is not clear if the full House of Representatives, controlled by a narrow 221-212 Republican majority, would vote to impeach Biden, though Speaker Mike Johnson has supported the probe.</p>


The Republican-controlled U.S. House Oversight Committee said on Wednesday it has subpoenaed President Joe Biden's son, Hunter Biden, and brother, James Biden, to appear for depositions, in an escalation of its impeachment inquiry into the Democrat.

The Republican-controlled U.S. House Oversight Committee said on Wednesday it has subpoenaed President Joe Biden's son, Hunter Biden, and brother, James Biden, to appear for depositions, in an escalation of its impeachment inquiry into the Democrat. House Republicans launched an impeachment inquiry in September, following months of probes. They allege that Biden and his family have personally profited from policy decisions made by Biden when he was vice president during former President Barack Obama's administration. James Biden could not immediately be reached for comment. Abbe Lowell, Hunter Biden's lawyer, called the subpoena "yet another political stunt." "Nevertheless, Hunter is eager to have the opportunity, in a public forum and at the right time, to discuss these matters with the Committee," Lowell said in a statement. Devon Archer, a former business associate of Hunter Biden, told the House Oversight Committee earlier this year that the younger Biden sought to create "an illusion of access to his father" and put his father on the phone with foreign associates "maybe 20 times" over the course of Archer's business relationship with Hunter Biden. White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre on Wednesday called the investigation a "smear campaign." The investigation "has gone on for a year now and has turned up zero evidence against the president," she said. The impeachment inquiry has been publicly supported by former President Donald Trump, who is the frontrunner for the Republican nomination to take on Biden in the 2024 election. In addition to the subpoenas to Hunter Biden and James Biden, the committee has issued a subpoena to Rob Walker, a former business partner of Hunter Biden. The committee has also asked four other members of Biden's family to appear, as well as another former business partner, Tony Bobulinski. The committee said it would send additional subpoenas and interview requests later in the week. Also watch | US: Hunter Biden special counsel denies political meddling in testimony to Congress × The committee has previously received financial records for members of the family. The House Oversight Committee held a public hearing related to the inquiry in September, which was a review of material related to foreign business ventures by Hunter Biden, which Republicans say indicate that the president's family members were selling access. Hunter Biden, 53, has publicly discussed his past substance abuse and never held a position in the White House or on his father's campaign. Also read | Hunter Biden admits receiving $664K from company backed by Chinese Communist Party Trump was the first U.S. president to be impeached twice. He was acquitted by the Senate both times. Trump is facing four criminal indictments for charges related to his business activities, alleged mishandling of classified documents and alleged attempts to overturn the 2020 election. It is not clear if the full House of Representatives, controlled by a narrow 221-212 Republican majority, would vote to impeach Biden, though Speaker Mike Johnson has supported the probe.

Biden's son Hunter, brother James to appear before US House Committee

<p>The prosecution of Hong Kong media tycoon Jimmy Lai Chee-ying is set to turn the discourse towards a wave of pro-democracy protests that gripped the city four years ago.</p>

<p>Having spent nearly three years in custody, the media mogul who heralded an era of generation-defining pro-democracy journalism with his Apple Daily paper, will stand trial at the High Court on December 18.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The court has reportedly estimated that the trial will take at least 80 days.</p>

<h2><strong>What is Hong Kong expecting during Jimmy Lai trial?</strong></h2>

<p>Hong Kong Secretary for Security Chris Tang branded the&nbsp;international coverage into Jammi Lai's trial as potential "smear campaign".</p>

<p>"I’m sure they will make use of this as another excuse to smear our government and to smear our country … It’s a must. It’s anticipated," Tang was quoted as saying by the South China Morning Post.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-head-of-journalists-group-sentenced-to-5-days-in-jail-for-obstructing-police-639571">Hong Kong: Head of journalists’ group sentenced to 5 days in jail for 'obstructing police'</a></strong></p>

<p>"They will make use of every opportunity to smear Hong Kong," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"When you look back, every two or three months, there will be a certain report from the US, from the UK, talking about [how] there’s no freedoms in Hong Kong. And now you can say whatever you want, right?"</p>

<h2><strong>Who is Jimmy Lai?</strong></h2>

<p>In a city of business tycoons, Lai has been the only multi-millionaire who ended up jeopardising his fortune for Hong Kong's freedom from China's communist&nbsp;assertiveness.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During the wave of pro-democracy protests in 2019, the 70-year-old was frequently seen at the marches, in the pouring rain or blazing summer heat, and was hailed as "a democratic superstar".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Lai has been an outspoken democracy advocate in Hong Kong for years. He founded the tabloid Apple Daily in 1995 which took a strong pro-democracy stance in the administrative region.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Lai was originally arrested in August of 2020 under a controversial national security law passed that year by Beijing. The law sharply curtailed free speech in the region in an effort to quash what the Chinese Communist Party describes as sedition in the separately administered region of Hong Kong.</p>

<p><img alt="The last edition of Apple Daily, published on June 24, 2019, with headline: 'Hong Kong bids farewell in the rain; 'We support Apples'" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="33fb3584-2406-48ef-aff7-7fb0ce2774d0" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/The%20prosecution%20of%20Hong%20Kong%20media%20tycoon%20Jimmy%20Lai%20Chee-ying%20is%20set%20to%20turn%20the%20discourse%20towards%20a%20wave%20of%20pro-democracy%20protests%20that%20gripped%20the%20city%20in%20the%20past%20few%20years.%20Having%20spent%20nearly.png" /></p>

<p><em>The last edition of Apple Daily, published on June 24, 2019, with headline: 'Hong Kong bids farewell in the rain; 'We support Apples', a reference to the individuals associated with the former daily.&nbsp;</em></p>

<p>Apple Daily closed down upon Chinese clampdown. Its last edition was published on June 24, 2019.</p>

<h2><strong>Catholic bishops call on Hong Kong government for Jimmy Lai's release</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, a number of Catholic leaders from around the world this week have called upon the government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region to release Jimmy Lai.</p>

<p>In a petition this month signed by 10 Catholic bishops and archbishops, the prelates said they "call on the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region to immediately and unconditionally release Jimmy Lai."</p>

<p>"Mr. Lai’s persecution for supporting pro-democracy causes through his newspaper and in other forums has gone on long enough," the prelates wrote.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"There is no place for such cruelty and oppression in a territory that claims to uphold the rule of law and respect the right to freedom of expression," they said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Hong Kong media tycoon Jimmy Lai sentenced to over five years for lease fraud</strong></p>

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<p>"In standing up for his beliefs and committing himself through his faith to challenge autocracy and repression, Jimmy Lai has lost his business, been cut off from his family, and has just surpassed 1,000 days in prison, while facing the prospect of many more years of incarceration to come."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"He is 75 years old," the bishops said. "He must be freed now."</p>


The prosecution of Hong Kong media tycoon Jimmy Lai Chee-ying is set to turn the discourse towards a wave of pro-democracy protests that gripped the city four years ago.

The prosecution of Hong Kong media tycoon Jimmy Lai Chee-ying is set to turn the discourse towards a wave of pro-democracy protests that gripped the city four years ago. Having spent nearly three years in custody, the media mogul who heralded an era of generation-defining pro-democracy journalism with his Apple Daily paper, will stand trial at the High Court on December 18. The court has reportedly estimated that the trial will take at least 80 days. What is Hong Kong expecting during Jimmy Lai trial? Hong Kong Secretary for Security Chris Tang branded the international coverage into Jammi Lai's trial as potential "smear campaign". "I’m sure they will make use of this as another excuse to smear our government and to smear our country … It’s a must. It’s anticipated," Tang was quoted as saying by the South China Morning Post. Also read | Hong Kong: Head of journalists’ group sentenced to 5 days in jail for 'obstructing police' "They will make use of every opportunity to smear Hong Kong," he said. "When you look back, every two or three months, there will be a certain report from the US, from the UK, talking about [how] there’s no freedoms in Hong Kong. And now you can say whatever you want, right?" Who is Jimmy Lai? In a city of business tycoons, Lai has been the only multi-millionaire who ended up jeopardising his fortune for Hong Kong's freedom from China's communist assertiveness. During the wave of pro-democracy protests in 2019, the 70-year-old was frequently seen at the marches, in the pouring rain or blazing summer heat, and was hailed as "a democratic superstar". Lai has been an outspoken democracy advocate in Hong Kong for years. He founded the tabloid Apple Daily in 1995 which took a strong pro-democracy stance in the administrative region. Lai was originally arrested in August of 2020 under a controversial national security law passed that year by Beijing. The law sharply curtailed free speech in the region in an effort to quash what the Chinese Communist Party describes as sedition in the separately administered region of Hong Kong. The last edition of Apple Daily, published on June 24, 2019, with headline: 'Hong Kong bids farewell in the rain; 'We support Apples', a reference to the individuals associated with the former daily. Apple Daily closed down upon Chinese clampdown. Its last edition was published on June 24, 2019. Catholic bishops call on Hong Kong government for Jimmy Lai's release Meanwhile, a number of Catholic leaders from around the world this week have called upon the government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region to release Jimmy Lai. In a petition this month signed by 10 Catholic bishops and archbishops, the prelates said they "call on the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region to immediately and unconditionally release Jimmy Lai." "Mr. Lai’s persecution for supporting pro-democracy causes through his newspaper and in other forums has gone on long enough," the prelates wrote. "There is no place for such cruelty and oppression in a territory that claims to uphold the rule of law and respect the right to freedom of expression," they said. Also watch | Hong Kong media tycoon Jimmy Lai sentenced to over five years for lease fraud × "In standing up for his beliefs and committing himself through his faith to challenge autocracy and repression, Jimmy Lai has lost his business, been cut off from his family, and has just surpassed 1,000 days in prison, while facing the prospect of many more years of incarceration to come." "He is 75 years old," the bishops said. "He must be freed now."

Jimmy Lai trial: China fears 'smear campaign' as uproar grows for pro-democracy activist's release

Top 7 Foreign Policy Achievements Of Swaraj-Jaishankar Years

Pakistan now features towards the end of India’s geopolitical calculus, almost edging towards irrelevance. With aggressive security postures in the form of surgical strikes and Balakot air raids, India has ensured an atmosphere of deterrence and reduced Pakistan to more as a nuisance than a threat. 

India is part of I2U2 (Israel, India, the UAE, and the US) for enhanced economic cooperation. Its comprehensive partnership with the UAE is flourishing with economic dividends reaching $45 billion in non-oil trade in April 2023. Delhi G20 summit saw the announcement of India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor, a landmark connectivity project.

Israel was among top three arms suppliers to India in 2021. Modi-Bibi at helm create ‘certain magic’ in bilateral ties, WION has reported in past. Despite that, Delhi has been steadfast in support of the Palestinian cause. Its ties with Iran remain cooperative, and Saudi Arabia remains a close partner. 

4. Architecting a global anti-terror framework 

The outcomes of No Money For Terror meet in November 2022 now features in the United Nations’ documents. India’s assertion that proposals for the sanctions on terrorists should be ‘free from political considerations and duality of standards’ has emerged as a clarion call against terrorism. 


5. India-Bangladesh exchange of enclaves 

On the midnight of July 31, 2015, India added 15,000 new citizens while Bangladesh added 36,000 new nationals. A total of 162 pockets of land – 111 in Bangladesh and 51 in India – were officially handed over after India’s PM Narendra Modi and Bangladesh’s PM Sheikh Hasina signed a historic deal in June 2015. 

6. Established India as an independent force 

Despite being part of the Quad, I2U2, Shanghai Cooperation Organisation, and Nordic Forum, the sheer ability of Indian foreign policy apparatus to keep its new friends close and older friends closer has been remarkable. It could buy oil from Russia even after its offensive in Ukraine, build a port in Iran and still be a friend to the US and the collective West. 

This typical dish from Austria consists of breaded and fried veal cutlet served with potato salad, lingonberry sauce, or lemon wedge.

Indian foreign policy has evolved up to a point of assertive belligerence that was unseen in previous decades.

<p>The residents of Indian capital Delhi and National Capital Region surrounding it may soon get respite from&nbsp;the hazardous air they have been breathing at least since the beginning of this month. The Delhi government will attempt to induce artificial rain through cloud seeding this month, Gopal Rai, the environment minister of National Capital Territory (NCT) of Delhi, said on November 8.</p>

<p>Rai said that a meeting with scientists from the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kanpur was held to pave way for an artificial rain in Delhi during the beginning of the third week of November.</p>

<p>"Experts anticipate that such conditions could develop around November 20-21. We have asked the scientists to prepare a proposal in this regard which will be submitted to the Supreme Court," the minister added.</p>

<h2><b>Can artificial rain curb air pollution?</b></h2>

<p>According to Mrutyunjay Mohapatra, Director General of the India Meteorological Department, research on artificial rain is yet to make a significant progress.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/is-stubbly-burning-the-sole-reason-for-delhis-poor-aqi-a-new-study-reveals-otherwise-655878">Is stubble burning the sole reason for Delhi’s poor air quality? A new study reveals otherwise</a></strong></p>

<p>"There have been a few attempts in India… in Telangana, Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. Globally, research is being conducted on artificial rain, which requires the basic requirement of clouds or moisture. Only under these conditions can it occur," Mohapatra was quoted as saying by the Press Trust of India.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Certain nuclei are sprinkled into the clouds to facilitate cloud condensation, leading to rainfall. In India, research on artificial rain is ongoing, but it has not made significant progress so far," Mohapatra added.</p>

<h2><strong>Artificial Rain: The Beijing example</strong></h2>

<p>The Chinese government has been a top proponent of cloud-seeding technology, and has spent billions of dollars in efforts to manipulate the weather during&nbsp;significant events including the 2008 Olympics.</p>

<p>Beijing launched a two-hour cloud-seeding operation on the eve of the Communist Party’s centenary on July 1, 2021 which resulted in&nbsp;a marked drop in air pollution.</p>

<h2><strong>Delhi Pollution: What else is being done?</strong></h2>

<p>The hazardous levels of pollution have impacted the lives and lifelines across northern India. As a reactive measure, Delhi government has ordered an early winter break in schools from November 9 to 18 due to deteriorating air quality.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;India's Supreme Court on Delhi pollution</strong></p>

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<p>Besides,&nbsp;the Delhi government had announced the return of the odd-even vehicle rationing scheme for a week beginning November 12, when the already "severe" and "severe plus" air pollution may be expected to get even worse following the Diwali festival.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Delhi government&nbsp;has also banned the entry of radio taxis from other states inside the National Capital Territory.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The residents of Indian capital Delhi and National Capital Region surrounding it may soon get respite from the hazardous air they have been breathing at least since the beginning of this month.

The residents of Indian capital Delhi and National Capital Region surrounding it may soon get respite from the hazardous air they have been breathing at least since the beginning of this month. The Delhi government will attempt to induce artificial rain through cloud seeding this month, Gopal Rai, the environment minister of National Capital Territory (NCT) of Delhi, said on November 8. Rai said that a meeting with scientists from the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kanpur was held to pave way for an artificial rain in Delhi during the beginning of the third week of November. "Experts anticipate that such conditions could develop around November 20-21. We have asked the scientists to prepare a proposal in this regard which will be submitted to the Supreme Court," the minister added. Can artificial rain curb air pollution? According to Mrutyunjay Mohapatra, Director General of the India Meteorological Department, research on artificial rain is yet to make a significant progress. Also read | Is stubble burning the sole reason for Delhi’s poor air quality? A new study reveals otherwise "There have been a few attempts in India… in Telangana, Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. Globally, research is being conducted on artificial rain, which requires the basic requirement of clouds or moisture. Only under these conditions can it occur," Mohapatra was quoted as saying by the Press Trust of India. "Certain nuclei are sprinkled into the clouds to facilitate cloud condensation, leading to rainfall. In India, research on artificial rain is ongoing, but it has not made significant progress so far," Mohapatra added. Artificial Rain: The Beijing example The Chinese government has been a top proponent of cloud-seeding technology, and has spent billions of dollars in efforts to manipulate the weather during significant events including the 2008 Olympics. Beijing launched a two-hour cloud-seeding operation on the eve of the Communist Party’s centenary on July 1, 2021 which resulted in a marked drop in air pollution. Delhi Pollution: What else is being done? The hazardous levels of pollution have impacted the lives and lifelines across northern India. As a reactive measure, Delhi government has ordered an early winter break in schools from November 9 to 18 due to deteriorating air quality. Also watch | India's Supreme Court on Delhi pollution × Besides, the Delhi government had announced the return of the odd-even vehicle rationing scheme for a week beginning November 12, when the already "severe" and "severe plus" air pollution may be expected to get even worse following the Diwali festival. Delhi government has also banned the entry of radio taxis from other states inside the National Capital Territory. (With inputs from agencies)

Delhi's pollution woes likely to be solved by artificial rain after IIT Kanpur steps in

<p>Pakistan's erstwhile ruling party Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz) became the subject of virtual embarrassment after the results of&nbsp;a poll posted on X, (formerly Twitter) backfired. After months of deadlock over elections even after the appointment of a caretaker prime minister, Pakistan has scheduled general elections for February 8 next year.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/explained-anwaar-ul-haq-kakar-established-as-pakistans-caretaker-pm-why-it-matters-625011">Explained | Anwaar-ul Haq Kakar established as Pakistan's caretaker PM. Why it matters</a></strong></p>

<p>Former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan's Pakistan-Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), assassinated Pakistani PM Benazir Bhutto's Pakistan People's Party and former Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif's Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz) are the top contenders for Islamabad's power corridors, controlled by the country's powerful military-intelligence nexus, dubbed as 'establishment'.</p>

<h2><strong>What was the poll on 'X' about?</strong></h2>

<p>The poll on 'X' posted by the PML-N digital team asked users on the platform about their preference for the 2024 general elections.</p>

<p>The results revealed that 81 per cent of participants voted for Pakistan-Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), while only 16 per cent opted for Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz).</p>

<p>Additionally, 2 per cent voted for Pakistan People's Party, and 1 per cent supported other political parties.</p>

<p><img alt="Credit: X/@pmlndigitalpk" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="38b81b4c-e2f4-47cc-ab31-1e17e195e2f3" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202023-11-08T182745.970.png" /></p>

<p><em>Credit: X/@pmlndigitalpk</em></p>

<p>After the results of the poll with over 36,000 votes showed a vast majority of users on X preferring the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) over others, the X handle of PML(N) quickly deleted the poll. But the screenshots of the poll had already gone viral.</p>

<h2><b>Pakistan elections 2024: What do they mean?</b></h2>

<p>Pakistan's elected Prime Minister Imran Khan of Pakistan-Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party remains in prison since early August&nbsp;following his conviction in a corruption case. Khan was ousted from power following a no-trust-vote in April 2022. A dozen&nbsp;cases and an assassination attempt later, in May 2023, violent&nbsp;PTI supporters attacked army headquarters in Rawalpindi while protesting Khan's arrest in a corruption case -- an unprecedented mini-intifada in a country where the 'establishment' reigns supreme.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/to-coup-or-not-coup-pakistan-armys-options-after-imran-khans-mini-intifada-592986">To coup or not coup: Pakistan Army’s options after Imran Khan’s 'mini-intifada'</a></strong></p>

<p>Following Khan's ouster, an alliance led by PML(N) chose former Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif's brother Shehbaz Sharif as its leader.</p>

<p>In August,&nbsp;Anwaar-ul Haq Kakar, a teacher-turned politician from Pakistan's restive province of Balochistan, was chosen Pakistan's caretaker prime minister.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Pakistan: Elections to be conducted by February 11</strong></p>

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<p>In October 2023, Nawaz Sharif returned from his self-imposed exile in London after four years, and secured bail on corruption cases he was facing convictions in. Sharif, a four-time prime minister of Pakistan, will now reportedly contest February elections.</p>


Pakistan's erstwhile ruling party Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz) became the subject of virtual embarrassment after the results of a poll posted on X, (formerly Twitter) backfired.

Pakistan's erstwhile ruling party Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz) became the subject of virtual embarrassment after the results of a poll posted on X, (formerly Twitter) backfired. After months of deadlock over elections even after the appointment of a caretaker prime minister, Pakistan has scheduled general elections for February 8 next year. Also read | Explained | Anwaar-ul Haq Kakar established as Pakistan's caretaker PM. Why it matters Former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan's Pakistan-Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), assassinated Pakistani PM Benazir Bhutto's Pakistan People's Party and former Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif's Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz) are the top contenders for Islamabad's power corridors, controlled by the country's powerful military-intelligence nexus, dubbed as 'establishment'. What was the poll on 'X' about? The poll on 'X' posted by the PML-N digital team asked users on the platform about their preference for the 2024 general elections. The results revealed that 81 per cent of participants voted for Pakistan-Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), while only 16 per cent opted for Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz). Additionally, 2 per cent voted for Pakistan People's Party, and 1 per cent supported other political parties. Credit: X/@pmlndigitalpk After the results of the poll with over 36,000 votes showed a vast majority of users on X preferring the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) over others, the X handle of PML(N) quickly deleted the poll. But the screenshots of the poll had already gone viral. Pakistan elections 2024: What do they mean? Pakistan's elected Prime Minister Imran Khan of Pakistan-Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party remains in prison since early August following his conviction in a corruption case. Khan was ousted from power following a no-trust-vote in April 2022. A dozen cases and an assassination attempt later, in May 2023, violent PTI supporters attacked army headquarters in Rawalpindi while protesting Khan's arrest in a corruption case -- an unprecedented mini-intifada in a country where the 'establishment' reigns supreme. Also read | To coup or not coup: Pakistan Army’s options after Imran Khan’s 'mini-intifada' Following Khan's ouster, an alliance led by PML(N) chose former Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif's brother Shehbaz Sharif as its leader. In August, Anwaar-ul Haq Kakar, a teacher-turned politician from Pakistan's restive province of Balochistan, was chosen Pakistan's caretaker prime minister. Also watch | Pakistan: Elections to be conducted by February 11 × In October 2023, Nawaz Sharif returned from his self-imposed exile in London after four years, and secured bail on corruption cases he was facing convictions in. Sharif, a four-time prime minister of Pakistan, will now reportedly contest February elections.

Pakistan elections: Nawaz Sharif's PML(N) faces online embarrassment over deleted poll

<p>The foreign ministers of the Group of Seven countries said that they supported "humanitarian pauses and corridors" during the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas, mostly concentrated in the blockaded Gaza Strip.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The G7 countries, consisting of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom and the United States of America, and the High Representative of the European Union, echoed Washington's previously stated position that falls short of calling for a ceasefire in Gaza.</p>

<p>"We stress the need for urgent action to address the deteriorating humanitarian crisis in Gaza … We support humanitarian pauses and corridors to facilitate urgently needed assistance, civilian movement, and the release of hostages," a joint statement of the G7 Foreign Ministers meeting that took place in Tokyo.</p>

<h2><strong>G7 Foreign Ministers put focus on Israel's 'right to defend'</strong></h2>

<p>The foreign ministers of G7 countries also emphasised on "Israel’s right to defend itself and its people in accordance with international law as it seeks to prevent a recurrence" of the Hamas attacks on Israel on October 7 that killed more than 1,400 Israelis, mostly civilians.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch:&nbsp;G7 meet in Tokyo: Israel-Hamas war to dominate the talks | Blinken calls for unity amidst war</strong></p>

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<p>It added: "We call on Iran to refrain from providing support for Hamas and taking further actions that destabilise the Middle East, including support for Lebanese Hezbollah and other non-state actors, and to use its influence with those groups to de-escalate regional tensions."</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the Hamas-run health ministry said the death toll in Gaza has surpassed 10,300 people.</p>

<p>"I believe it’s important that the G7 was able to put out its first unified message as a statement … regarding a humanitarian pause and a future peace process, both in terms of the responsibility the G7 has towards the international community and for Japan as this year’s chair of the G7," Japanese Foreign Minister Yoko Kamikawa told reporters.</p>

<p>The G7 said that a two-state solution "remains the only path to a just, lasting, and secure peace".</p>

<p>Besides, the Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Monday (Nov 6) that it would not allow the delivery of fuel into Gaza and that there would be no ceasefire unless the hostages seized by Hamas were freed.</p>

<p>He also said Israel would assume "overall security" in Gaza after the war ended while allowing for possible "tactical pauses" before then to free captives and deliver aid to the besieged territory. But this exact assertion was denounced by Washington as it said that it would not support a long-term occupation of Gaza by Israel.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>G7 on Russia-Ukraine war</strong></h2>

<p>Referring to the war in Ukraine, the G7 statement said: "Our steadfast commitment to supporting Ukraine’s fight for its independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity will never waver."</p>

<p>“We further call on China not to assist Russia in its war against Ukraine, to press Russia to stop its military aggression, and to support a just and lasting peace in Ukraine,” it said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The foreign ministers of the Group of Seven countries said that they supported "humanitarian pauses and corridors" during the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas, mostly concentrated in the blockaded Gaza Strip.

The foreign ministers of the Group of Seven countries said that they supported "humanitarian pauses and corridors" during the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas, mostly concentrated in the blockaded Gaza Strip. The G7 countries, consisting of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom and the United States of America, and the High Representative of the European Union, echoed Washington's previously stated position that falls short of calling for a ceasefire in Gaza. "We stress the need for urgent action to address the deteriorating humanitarian crisis in Gaza … We support humanitarian pauses and corridors to facilitate urgently needed assistance, civilian movement, and the release of hostages," a joint statement of the G7 Foreign Ministers meeting that took place in Tokyo. G7 Foreign Ministers put focus on Israel's 'right to defend' The foreign ministers of G7 countries also emphasised on "Israel’s right to defend itself and its people in accordance with international law as it seeks to prevent a recurrence" of the Hamas attacks on Israel on October 7 that killed more than 1,400 Israelis, mostly civilians. Also watch: G7 meet in Tokyo: Israel-Hamas war to dominate the talks | Blinken calls for unity amidst war × It added: "We call on Iran to refrain from providing support for Hamas and taking further actions that destabilise the Middle East, including support for Lebanese Hezbollah and other non-state actors, and to use its influence with those groups to de-escalate regional tensions." Meanwhile, the Hamas-run health ministry said the death toll in Gaza has surpassed 10,300 people. "I believe it’s important that the G7 was able to put out its first unified message as a statement … regarding a humanitarian pause and a future peace process, both in terms of the responsibility the G7 has towards the international community and for Japan as this year’s chair of the G7," Japanese Foreign Minister Yoko Kamikawa told reporters. The G7 said that a two-state solution "remains the only path to a just, lasting, and secure peace". Besides, the Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Monday (Nov 6) that it would not allow the delivery of fuel into Gaza and that there would be no ceasefire unless the hostages seized by Hamas were freed. He also said Israel would assume "overall security" in Gaza after the war ended while allowing for possible "tactical pauses" before then to free captives and deliver aid to the besieged territory. But this exact assertion was denounced by Washington as it said that it would not support a long-term occupation of Gaza by Israel. G7 on Russia-Ukraine war Referring to the war in Ukraine, the G7 statement said: "Our steadfast commitment to supporting Ukraine’s fight for its independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity will never waver." “We further call on China not to assist Russia in its war against Ukraine, to press Russia to stop its military aggression, and to support a just and lasting peace in Ukraine,” it said. (With inputs from agencies)

G7 nations fall short of calling for ceasefire in Gaza as Israel-Hamas war rages on

<p>Indian-origin poet Rupi Kaur said she declined an invitation to Diwali celebrations&nbsp;at the White House on November 8, protesting US President Joe Biden administration's support of Israel's retaliatory action in Gaza following the October 7 attack on Israel by Hamas terrorists.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Rupi Kaur, in a post on X (formerly Twitter), wrote that she "received an invite from the Biden administration for a Diwali event being held by the VP on Nov 8."</p>

<p>The elaborate post included a letter in which Kaur expressed surprise at the celebration of Diwali amid ongoing conflict in Gaza that has claimed thousands of lives so far.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I’m surprised this administration finds it acceptable to celebrate Diwali, when their support of the current atrocities against Palestinians represent(s) the exact opposite of what this holiday means to many of us." She added: "I refuse any invitation from an institution that supports the collective punishment of a trapped civilian population – 50 per cent of whom are children."</p>

<p>Diwali is celebrated by Hindus, Sikhs, Jains and Buddhists all across the world in the honour of Lord Ram's return to his birthplace Ayodhya 20 days after he defeated demon king Ravana who had abducted his wife Sita, the princess of Mithila. Thus came an end to Ram's&nbsp;14 years of exile in response to a&nbsp;command by his father, the late king Dashrath as per the wishes of one of his wives Kakeyi.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Lord Ram, his brother Laxman, wife Sita and disciple Hanuman returned to Ayodhya on a no-moon night, following which the Ayodhya residents lit earthen lamps and decorated the city located in present-day North India. And thus came the origin of Diwali or Deepawali, literally meaning the festival of diyas (or light).</p>

<p>Kaur said she always used the holiday "to reflect on what it means to fight for freedom against oppression".&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/opinion-poet-rupi-kaur-follows-no-grammar-yet-her-books-sell-like-hot-pancakes-33791">Poet Rupi Kaur follows no grammar yet her books sell like hot pancakes</a></strong></p>

<p>Kaur called upon the members of South Asian community to hold the Biden administration accountable for the purported Israeli action in Gaza.</p>

<p>"As a community, we cannot remain silent or agreeable just to get a seat at the table," Kaur said. "It comes at too high a cost to human life."</p>

<h2><strong>About the White House Diwali celebration</strong></h2>

<p>The White House Diwali celebration, being hosted annually since 2021, is hosted by the US Vice President.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Last year, more than 200 guests were in attendance in the White House Diwali event, including the public figures including Mindy Kaling, influencer Lily Singh and podcaster Jay Shetty.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/opinion-tough-life-of-immigrant-art-and-long-drive-in-the-making-of-poet-rupi-kaur-31609">Opinion: Tough life of immigrant, art and long drive in the making of poet Rupi Kaur</a></strong></p>

<p>As&nbsp; per claims of Hamas-run health ministry, more than 10,000 Palestinians in Gaza Strip have been killed by Israeli military forces, which launched an offensive on Gaza after Hamas killed 1,400 Israelis and took 250 more as hostages on 7 October.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;US President Joe Biden &amp; PM Netanyahu on tactical pauses in Gaza | World News | WION</strong></p>

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<p>The US President Joe Biden has called for a humanitarian pause with simultaneous securing of the release of Israeli hostages.<br />
<br />
<em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Indian-origin poet Rupi Kaur said she declined an invitation to Diwali celebrations at the White House on November 8, protesting US President Joe Biden administration's support of Israel's retaliatory action in Gaza following the October 7 attack on Israel by Hamas terrorists.

Indian-origin poet Rupi Kaur said she declined an invitation to Diwali celebrations at the White House on November 8, protesting US President Joe Biden administration's support of Israel's retaliatory action in Gaza following the October 7 attack on Israel by Hamas terrorists. Rupi Kaur, in a post on X (formerly Twitter), wrote that she "received an invite from the Biden administration for a Diwali event being held by the VP on Nov 8." The elaborate post included a letter in which Kaur expressed surprise at the celebration of Diwali amid ongoing conflict in Gaza that has claimed thousands of lives so far. "I’m surprised this administration finds it acceptable to celebrate Diwali, when their support of the current atrocities against Palestinians represent(s) the exact opposite of what this holiday means to many of us." She added: "I refuse any invitation from an institution that supports the collective punishment of a trapped civilian population – 50 per cent of whom are children." Diwali is celebrated by Hindus, Sikhs, Jains and Buddhists all across the world in the honour of Lord Ram's return to his birthplace Ayodhya 20 days after he defeated demon king Ravana who had abducted his wife Sita, the princess of Mithila. Thus came an end to Ram's 14 years of exile in response to a command by his father, the late king Dashrath as per the wishes of one of his wives Kakeyi. Lord Ram, his brother Laxman, wife Sita and disciple Hanuman returned to Ayodhya on a no-moon night, following which the Ayodhya residents lit earthen lamps and decorated the city located in present-day North India. And thus came the origin of Diwali or Deepawali, literally meaning the festival of diyas (or light). Kaur said she always used the holiday "to reflect on what it means to fight for freedom against oppression". Also read | Poet Rupi Kaur follows no grammar yet her books sell like hot pancakes Kaur called upon the members of South Asian community to hold the Biden administration accountable for the purported Israeli action in Gaza. "As a community, we cannot remain silent or agreeable just to get a seat at the table," Kaur said. "It comes at too high a cost to human life." About the White House Diwali celebration The White House Diwali celebration, being hosted annually since 2021, is hosted by the US Vice President. Last year, more than 200 guests were in attendance in the White House Diwali event, including the public figures including Mindy Kaling, influencer Lily Singh and podcaster Jay Shetty. Also read | Opinion: Tough life of immigrant, art and long drive in the making of poet Rupi Kaur As per claims of Hamas-run health ministry, more than 10,000 Palestinians in Gaza Strip have been killed by Israeli military forces, which launched an offensive on Gaza after Hamas killed 1,400 Israelis and took 250 more as hostages on 7 October. Also watch | US President Joe Biden & PM Netanyahu on tactical pauses in Gaza | World News | WION × The US President Joe Biden has called for a humanitarian pause with simultaneous securing of the release of Israeli hostages. (With inputs from agencies)

Poet Rupi Kaur declines invite to White House's Diwali celebrations amid Israel-Hamas war

<p>When the Taliban took over Kabul's corridors of power in August 2021, seventeen of the thirty-three members of Mullah Hasan Akhund's cabinet were UN-designated terrorists. But Pakistan, with whom Afghanistan shares a 2,640 km disputed border, was the first to send in the members of its establishment to Kabul in a show of support to a militant regime it fostered and supported since the American invasion of Afghanistan after the 9/11 attacks.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/a-paranoid-president-us-abandonment-new-report-reveals-why-afghan-forces-collapsed-after-us-withdrawal-566832">A 'paranoid' president, US 'abandonment'— new report on why Afghan forces collapsed after American withdrawal</a></strong></p>

<p>But Pakistan is now claiming that the Afghan government is "doing nothing against terrorism emanating from Afghan soil". Islamabad claims that it is the&nbsp;violation of the US-Taliban Doha agreement that made American withdrawal from Afghanistan conditional on the basis of Taliban's assurance that Afghanistan "will not become a safe haven for terrorists".&nbsp;<img alt="Pakistan's then intelligence chief Faiz Hameed at Kabul's Serena Hotel in September 2021 " data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b0256992-6f82-479b-b4ec-e0cc0498a3e9" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202023-11-08T134120.521.png" /></p>

<p>Hundreds of thousands of Afghan refugees are being forced to leave Pakistan in the implementation of Islamabad's order to remove undocumented people from within its borders, some living since the 1970s when the Soviets invaded Afghanistan.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Pakistan refugee crisis: Bulldozer razes homes of Afghan refugees in Pakistan</strong></p>

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<p>Of about 4 million Afghans living in Pakistan, about 1.7 million people are in the crosshairs of this "repatriation" plan.</p>

<p>"Those Afghans who have voluntarily returned from Pakistan, their count stands at 252,000," Pakistan's caretaker Prime Minister Anwar ul-Haq Kakar said in a press briefing on November 8.</p>

<h2><strong>'Terrorism' on rise after Taliban came to power: Pakistan PM</strong></h2>

<p>Pakistan's caretaker Prime Minister claimed that since Taliban came to power in Afghanistan, "Pakistan saw a 60 per cent rise in terrorism".&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Instability and security situation in the country is being caused by those Afghans living illegally in Pakistan," ul-Haq Kakar said, adding that Afghan Transit trade from various checkpoints will continue.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Pakistan has also demanded the Interim Afghan government to handover all those wanted by Pakistan in terrorism.</p>

<p>Islamabad claimed that 15 Afghan nationals were involved in suicide attacks in Pakistan this year but did not provide any evidence to back the claim. Many such claims by Pakistan appear contested. This is because a number of new armed groups have propped up during 2010s in the Af-Pak region, notably the Islamic State (Khorasan) and Tehreek-e-Jihad Pakistan (TJP).&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/tehreek-e-jihad-pakistan-the-latest-armed-jihad-challenge-for-indias-terror-exporting-neighbour-655280">Tehreek-e-Jihad Pakistan: The latest 'armed jihad' challenge for India's terror exporting neighbour</a></strong></p>

<p>Furthermore, the number of targeted attacks on Pakistani troops in the restive province of Balochistan have seen a remarkable rise.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"There was a misconception that we used to think Afghanistan as our fifth province. We are announcing it clearly that we have always considered it as an independent sovereign country," ul-Haq Kakar said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The denial by them (the US) has no relevance. There is documented evidence that the American leftover is being sold on black market. Also, where did the weapons of Afghan military go?"</p>


When the Taliban took over Kabul's corridors of power in August 2021, seventeen of the thirty-three members of Mullah Hasan Akhund's cabinet were UN-designated terrorists.

When the Taliban took over Kabul's corridors of power in August 2021, seventeen of the thirty-three members of Mullah Hasan Akhund's cabinet were UN-designated terrorists. But Pakistan, with whom Afghanistan shares a 2,640 km disputed border, was the first to send in the members of its establishment to Kabul in a show of support to a militant regime it fostered and supported since the American invasion of Afghanistan after the 9/11 attacks. Also read | A 'paranoid' president, US 'abandonment'— new report on why Afghan forces collapsed after American withdrawal But Pakistan is now claiming that the Afghan government is "doing nothing against terrorism emanating from Afghan soil". Islamabad claims that it is the violation of the US-Taliban Doha agreement that made American withdrawal from Afghanistan conditional on the basis of Taliban's assurance that Afghanistan "will not become a safe haven for terrorists". Hundreds of thousands of Afghan refugees are being forced to leave Pakistan in the implementation of Islamabad's order to remove undocumented people from within its borders, some living since the 1970s when the Soviets invaded Afghanistan. Also watch | Pakistan refugee crisis: Bulldozer razes homes of Afghan refugees in Pakistan × Of about 4 million Afghans living in Pakistan, about 1.7 million people are in the crosshairs of this "repatriation" plan. "Those Afghans who have voluntarily returned from Pakistan, their count stands at 252,000," Pakistan's caretaker Prime Minister Anwar ul-Haq Kakar said in a press briefing on November 8. 'Terrorism' on rise after Taliban came to power: Pakistan PM Pakistan's caretaker Prime Minister claimed that since Taliban came to power in Afghanistan, "Pakistan saw a 60 per cent rise in terrorism". "Instability and security situation in the country is being caused by those Afghans living illegally in Pakistan," ul-Haq Kakar said, adding that Afghan Transit trade from various checkpoints will continue. Pakistan has also demanded the Interim Afghan government to handover all those wanted by Pakistan in terrorism. Islamabad claimed that 15 Afghan nationals were involved in suicide attacks in Pakistan this year but did not provide any evidence to back the claim. Many such claims by Pakistan appear contested. This is because a number of new armed groups have propped up during 2010s in the Af-Pak region, notably the Islamic State (Khorasan) and Tehreek-e-Jihad Pakistan (TJP). Also read | Tehreek-e-Jihad Pakistan: The latest 'armed jihad' challenge for India's terror exporting neighbour Furthermore, the number of targeted attacks on Pakistani troops in the restive province of Balochistan have seen a remarkable rise. "There was a misconception that we used to think Afghanistan as our fifth province. We are announcing it clearly that we have always considered it as an independent sovereign country," ul-Haq Kakar said. "The denial by them (the US) has no relevance. There is documented evidence that the American leftover is being sold on black market. Also, where did the weapons of Afghan military go?"

After backing Taliban for years, Pakistan now claims 60 pc rise in terror from Afghanistan

What Makes Italy’s Giorgia Meloni a Woman Leader With Difference 

Italy’s Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has emerged as leader of substance whose prominence in the news cycle is outshining her European peers, such as UK’s Rishi Sunak and France’s Emmanuel Macron. 

Willing to Make Personal Sacrifices if Needed 

Meloni recently became the first leader to announce on social media that she was parting with her boyfriend. 

In a postscript, Meloni addressed those who hoped to ‘weaken’ her by striking her private life. 

“No matter how much a water drop may hope to carve the stone, the stone remains stone and the drop is only water,” Meloni wrote. 

For weeks, Giorgia Meloni’s relationship with TV news host Andrea Giambruno, was dominating the news cycle in Italy and its immediate neighbourhood. Theirs was a relationship that lived in constant media limelight. 

But a comment by Giambruno, stating women should avoid getting drunk to avoid potential sexual assaults, created a political storm in Italy. Meloni clarified that her partner did not represent her views. But the damage was done. 

The personal and political overlapped. Meloni chose political, defying a discourse among women leaders (example New Zealand’s former PM Jacinda Ardern) to reflect that she has enough to fulfil the demands of a challenging premiership. And that she’s there to stay. 


Italy’s Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has emerged as leader of substance whose prominence in the news cycle is outshining her European peers

<p>Russia's new nuclear-powered submarine Imperator Alexander III carried out a successful test launch of the Bulava ballistic missile, designed to carry nuclear warheads, the Russian defence ministry said on Sunday.</p>

<p>"Firing a ballistic missile is the final element of state tests, after which a decision will be made to accept the cruiser into the Navy," the defence ministry said in a statement on the Telegram messaging app.</p>

<p>President Vladimir Putin has been pushing for Russia to maintain its nuclear deterrent to counter what he calls growing security threats, as ties between Moscow and the West have hit new lows over the war Russia launched in Ukraine in 2022.</p>

<p>The intercontinental missile, launched from an underwater position in the White Sea off Russia's northern coast, hit a target thousands of kilometres away on the Kamchatka peninsula in the Russian Far East, it said.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;No one on earth will survive a nuclear attack on Russia: Putin</strong></p>

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<p>The ministry did not say when the test occurred.</p>

<p>The Borei class strategic-missile cruiser is equipped with 16 Bulava missiles and modern torpedo weapons, it said.</p>

<p>Putin took part in a ceremony in December setting the Imperator Alexander III afloat, TASS state news agency said.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-filmed-with-nuclear-briefcase-carried-by-russian-officers-in-china-648464">Putin filmed with 'nuclear briefcase' being carried by Russian officers in China</a></strong></p>

<p>The navy has three nuclear-powered submarines of the Borei class in service - one is completing tests and three more are under construction, the defence ministry said.</p>

<p>The 12-metre (40-foot) long Bulava missile, which has an estimated range of around 8,000 km (5,000 miles) and can carry up to six nuclear warheads, has become the cornerstone in the naval part of Russia's nuclear triad.</p>


Russia's new nuclear-powered submarine Imperator Alexander III carried out a successful test launch of the Bulava ballistic missile, designed to carry nuclear warheads, the Russian defence ministry said on Sunday.

Russia's new nuclear-powered submarine Imperator Alexander III carried out a successful test launch of the Bulava ballistic missile, designed to carry nuclear warheads, the Russian defence ministry said on Sunday. "Firing a ballistic missile is the final element of state tests, after which a decision will be made to accept the cruiser into the Navy," the defence ministry said in a statement on the Telegram messaging app. President Vladimir Putin has been pushing for Russia to maintain its nuclear deterrent to counter what he calls growing security threats, as ties between Moscow and the West have hit new lows over the war Russia launched in Ukraine in 2022. The intercontinental missile, launched from an underwater position in the White Sea off Russia's northern coast, hit a target thousands of kilometres away on the Kamchatka peninsula in the Russian Far East, it said. Also watch | No one on earth will survive a nuclear attack on Russia: Putin × The ministry did not say when the test occurred. The Borei class strategic-missile cruiser is equipped with 16 Bulava missiles and modern torpedo weapons, it said. Putin took part in a ceremony in December setting the Imperator Alexander III afloat, TASS state news agency said. Also read | Putin filmed with 'nuclear briefcase' being carried by Russian officers in China The navy has three nuclear-powered submarines of the Borei class in service - one is completing tests and three more are under construction, the defence ministry said. The 12-metre (40-foot) long Bulava missile, which has an estimated range of around 8,000 km (5,000 miles) and can carry up to six nuclear warheads, has become the cornerstone in the naval part of Russia's nuclear triad.

Russia's Bulava intercontinental missile sees new daylight with nuclear submarine test

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