The Pakistan Police have arrested 194 Afghan nationals in Peshawar for rioting, damaging public property and shouting slogans against Pakistan during the celebrations of their country’s Independence Day, which falls on August 19.

According to local media reports, the incident took place on Thursday night at Phase III Chowk of the Hayatabad area. Scores of Afghan nationals descended on the streets to celebrate the Independence Day of Afghanistan.

The city police said clashes erupted between Afghan and Pakistan youths after they had heated exchanges over the closure of Phase III Chowk.

The police said the Afghanistan nationals pelted stones at them when their personnel reached the area and tried to open the road.

They added that 20 rioters have been put into custody and eight more in the University Town neighbourhood.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/why-is-sanctionpakistan-trending-because-thousands-of-afghans-want-the-world-to-punish-pakistan-for-backing-taliban-404496">Also read |&nbsp;Why is #SanctionPakistan trending? Because thousands of Afghans want the world to punish Pakistan for backing Taliban</a>

Following the incident, the police deployed their personnel at Phase III chowk and nearby areas to prevent any untoward situation.

Ever since the Taliban took over Afghanistan, there have been widespread protests by Afghan refugees around the world. Pakistan has been accused of extending support to the militia group.

In Afghanistan, too, several people were killed when the Taliban militants fired on them while protesting against the regime during a rally celebrating Independence Day on Thursday.

The Pakistan Police have arrested 194 Afghan nationals in Peshawar for rioting, damaging public property and shouting slogans against Pakistan during the celebrations of their country’s Independence Day, which falls on August 19.

The Pakistan Police have arrested 194 Afghan nationals in Peshawar for rioting, damaging public property and shouting slogans against Pakistan during the celebrations of their country’s Independence Day, which falls on August 19. According to local media reports, the incident took place on Thursday night at Phase III Chowk of the Hayatabad area. Scores of Afghan nationals descended on the streets to celebrate the Independence Day of Afghanistan. The city police said clashes erupted between Afghan and Pakistan youths after they had heated exchanges over the closure of Phase III Chowk. The police said the Afghanistan nationals pelted stones at them when their personnel reached the area and tried to open the road. They added that 20 rioters have been put into custody and eight more in the University Town neighbourhood. Also read | Why is #SanctionPakistan trending? Because thousands of Afghans want the world to punish Pakistan for backing Taliban Following the incident, the police deployed their personnel at Phase III chowk and nearby areas to prevent any untoward situation. Ever since the Taliban took over Afghanistan, there have been widespread protests by Afghan refugees around the world. Pakistan has been accused of extending support to the militia group. In Afghanistan, too, several people were killed when the Taliban militants fired on them while protesting against the regime during a rally celebrating Independence Day on Thursday.

More than 190 Afghan nationals arrested in Peshawar for anti-Pak slogans

Zimbabwe Police have charged a 26-year-old man of rape after a 15-year-old girl died while giving birth at a church shrine last month.

According to local media reports, the minor girl was buried last month at a church shrine in the eastern region of Marange. Her death sparked outrage among citizens and activists in Zimbabwe.

The girl’s parents are also accused of lying about her age and pledging their daughter to the same man, Hatirarami Momberume.

The girl’s parents have also been charged with obstructing justice and falsifying identification documents to conceal their daughter’s age.

Police spokesperson Paul Nyathi confirmed that Anna died on 15 July and was subsequently buried at the shrine.

“Investigations are in progress with a view of unravelling all the facts in this case,” The Guardian quoted a police statement as saying.

An online campaign is also trending on Twitter in Zimbabwe, and a petition to stop child marriage has received more than 92,000 signatures so far, reports the Guardian.

According to Amnesty International, <a href="https://www.amnesty.org/download/Documents/AFR4641122021ENGLISH.pdf">a</a>&nbsp;fifth of maternal deaths in Zimbabwe occur among girls aged 15 to 19.

Even though Zimbabwe’s constitutional court bans marriage under the age of 18, the UN in a report stated that one in three girls are still likely to be married before reaching that age.

Zimbabwe Police have charged a 26-year-old man of rape after a 15-year-old girl died while giving birth at a church shrine last month. According to local media reports, the minor girl was buried last month at a church shrine in the eastern region of Marange.

Zimbabwe Police have charged a 26-year-old man of rape after a 15-year-old girl died while giving birth at a church shrine last month. According to local media reports, the minor girl was buried last month at a church shrine in the eastern region of Marange. Her death sparked outrage among citizens and activists in Zimbabwe. The girl’s parents are also accused of lying about her age and pledging their daughter to the same man, Hatirarami Momberume. The girl’s parents have also been charged with obstructing justice and falsifying identification documents to conceal their daughter’s age. Police spokesperson Paul Nyathi confirmed that Anna died on 15 July and was subsequently buried at the shrine. “Investigations are in progress with a view of unravelling all the facts in this case,” The Guardian quoted a police statement as saying. An online campaign is also trending on Twitter in Zimbabwe, and a petition to stop child marriage has received more than 92,000 signatures so far, reports the Guardian. According to Amnesty International, a fifth of maternal deaths in Zimbabwe occur among girls aged 15 to 19. Even though Zimbabwe’s constitutional court bans marriage under the age of 18, the UN in a report stated that one in three girls are still likely to be married before reaching that age.

Zimbabwe: Man charged with rape after 15-year-old victim dies giving birth

Russia's ambassador to Afghanistan Dmitry Zhirnov has said there is no alternative to Taliban in Afghanistan and added that any kind of resistance to the Islamist group would fail.

Zhirnov said the security situation in Kabul was much better than it was before the Taliban took control of it and spoke optimistically about the country’s future.

“The mood in Kabul can be described as one of cautious hope,” Reuters quoted Zhirnov as saying.

“There was a bad regime which disappeared, and people are hopeful. They say it can’t be worse so it should be better. But this is another test for the Taliban to pass. After they restore order, they should start improving the socio-economic situation,” he added.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/hizbul-mujahideens-chief-syed-salahuddin-seeks-support-from-taliban-to-attack-india-407272">Also read |&nbsp;Hizbul Mujahideen's chief, Syed Salahuddin, seeks support from Taliban to attack India</a>

Russian ambassador’s comments gain importance as the Russian government has so far been silent on recognising the legitimacy of the Taliban government. Only China has expressed its interest to deepen “friendly and cooperative” relations with the hard-line militia group.

Russia’s overtures to Taliban are being perceived by many as an attempt to ensure that instability in Afghanistan does not spiral over into Central Asia, a part of the former Soviet Union, and that the region does not become a launchpad for other extreme Islamist groups.

Zhirnov said the facts on the ground had changed and the Taliban had made a set of encouraging pledges.

“We can’t wave reality aside. They (the Taliban) are the de-facto authorities. There is no alternative to the Taliban in Afghanistan," Reuters quoted Zhirnov as saying.

&nbsp;

Russia's ambassador to Afghanistan Dmitry Zhirnov has said there is no alternative to Taliban in Afghanistan and added that any kind of resistance to the Islamist group would fail.

Russia's ambassador to Afghanistan Dmitry Zhirnov has said there is no alternative to Taliban in Afghanistan and added that any kind of resistance to the Islamist group would fail. Zhirnov said the security situation in Kabul was much better than it was before the Taliban took control of it and spoke optimistically about the country’s future. “The mood in Kabul can be described as one of cautious hope,” Reuters quoted Zhirnov as saying. “There was a bad regime which disappeared, and people are hopeful. They say it can’t be worse so it should be better. But this is another test for the Taliban to pass. After they restore order, they should start improving the socio-economic situation,” he added. Also read | Hizbul Mujahideen's chief, Syed Salahuddin, seeks support from Taliban to attack India Russian ambassador’s comments gain importance as the Russian government has so far been silent on recognising the legitimacy of the Taliban government. Only China has expressed its interest to deepen “friendly and cooperative” relations with the hard-line militia group. Russia’s overtures to Taliban are being perceived by many as an attempt to ensure that instability in Afghanistan does not spiral over into Central Asia, a part of the former Soviet Union, and that the region does not become a launchpad for other extreme Islamist groups. Zhirnov said the facts on the ground had changed and the Taliban had made a set of encouraging pledges. “We can’t wave reality aside. They (the Taliban) are the de-facto authorities. There is no alternative to the Taliban in Afghanistan," Reuters quoted Zhirnov as saying.

No alternative to Taliban, any kind of resistance will fail: Russian envoy to Afghanistan

Confirming the imminent withdrawal of most embassy staff in the wake of a rapid Taliban offensive, Boris Johnson said the United Kingdom would not abandon Afghanistan.

"Nobody wants Afghanistan to be a breeding ground for terror...or to lapse back into the pre-2001 situation," he said.

<h2><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/live-taliban-take-control-of-afghanistan-presidential-palace-as-ghani-exits-country-405579">LIVE: Taliban take control of Afghanistan presidential palace as Ghani exits country</a></h2>

With Islamists capturing more Afghan cities, Britain will be deploying around 600 troops to assist in evacuating its roughly 3,000 residents, and as per the PM, the majority of remaining embassy staff in Kabul will return to the UK.

Defence Secretary Ben Wallace said Joe Biden's decision to withdraw US troops, forcing NATO allies to follow suit, amounted to "a very big problem on the ground" and helped the Taliban gain momentum.

According to him, it would benefit Al-Qaeda in Afghanistan, since the Taliban had provided a safe haven for them before the September 11 attacks, something that led to the West's 20-year involvement in Afghanistan.

In an interview with Sky News, Wallace said that Biden's predecessor Donald Trump's predecessor had struck a "rotten deal" with the Taliban allowing the US to end its longest war. This echoes the complaints of UK military chiefs who have strongly opposed the pullout.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/ashraf-ghani-departing-afghan-president-who-failed-to-make-peace-with-taliban-405790" hreflang="en">Ashraf Ghani: Departing Afghan president who failed to make peace with Taliban</a>

After convening crisis talks with senior cabinet colleagues, Johnson noted that Britain and the West retain a strategic interest in supporting the beleaguered&nbsp;Kabul government.

I think we have got to be realistic about the power of the UK or any power to impose a military solution, a combat solution, in Afghanistan," he told reporters.

He added that "there is clearly a change of regime now happening" but "we don’t know exactly what kind of regime that will be".

"What we certainly can do is work with all our partners in the region, around the world, who share an interest with us in preventing Afghanistan once again becoming a breeding ground for terror.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/as-us-embassy-staff-haphazardly-removed-from-kabul-blinken-rejects-comparison-with-saigon-405781" hreflang="en">As US embassy staff haphazardly removed from Kabul, Blinken rejects comparison with Saigon</a>

"What we must do now is not turn our backs on Afghanistan," he stressed, adding that Britain could be "extremely proud" of its role in the country, especially in advancing girls' education, gains that are now imperilled by the Taliban advance.

We mustn't abandon Afghanistan, he stressed, adding that Britain can take great pride in its role in the country, particularly in the advancement of girls' education, gains now threatened by the Taliban's advance.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/boris-johnson-says-afghanistan-must-not-become-breeding-ground-for-terror-405818/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The prime minister said UK officials would be flying out to Kabul to assist Afghan interpreters that served with the UK military and seeking resettlement in the UK.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Confirming the imminent withdrawal of most embassy staff in the wake of a rapid Taliban offensive, Boris Johnson said the United Kingdom would not abandon Afghanistan.

Confirming the imminent withdrawal of most embassy staff in the wake of a rapid Taliban offensive, Boris Johnson said the United Kingdom would not abandon Afghanistan. "Nobody wants Afghanistan to be a breeding ground for terror...or to lapse back into the pre-2001 situation," he said. LIVE: Taliban take control of Afghanistan presidential palace as Ghani exits country With Islamists capturing more Afghan cities, Britain will be deploying around 600 troops to assist in evacuating its roughly 3,000 residents, and as per the PM, the majority of remaining embassy staff in Kabul will return to the UK. Defence Secretary Ben Wallace said Joe Biden's decision to withdraw US troops, forcing NATO allies to follow suit, amounted to "a very big problem on the ground" and helped the Taliban gain momentum. According to him, it would benefit Al-Qaeda in Afghanistan, since the Taliban had provided a safe haven for them before the September 11 attacks, something that led to the West's 20-year involvement in Afghanistan. In an interview with Sky News, Wallace said that Biden's predecessor Donald Trump's predecessor had struck a "rotten deal" with the Taliban allowing the US to end its longest war. This echoes the complaints of UK military chiefs who have strongly opposed the pullout. Also read | Ashraf Ghani: Departing Afghan president who failed to make peace with Taliban After convening crisis talks with senior cabinet colleagues, Johnson noted that Britain and the West retain a strategic interest in supporting the beleaguered Kabul government. I think we have got to be realistic about the power of the UK or any power to impose a military solution, a combat solution, in Afghanistan," he told reporters. He added that "there is clearly a change of regime now happening" but "we don’t know exactly what kind of regime that will be". "What we certainly can do is work with all our partners in the region, around the world, who share an interest with us in preventing Afghanistan once again becoming a breeding ground for terror. Also read | As US embassy staff haphazardly removed from Kabul, Blinken rejects comparison with Saigon "What we must do now is not turn our backs on Afghanistan," he stressed, adding that Britain could be "extremely proud" of its role in the country, especially in advancing girls' education, gains that are now imperilled by the Taliban advance. We mustn't abandon Afghanistan, he stressed, adding that Britain can take great pride in its role in the country, particularly in the advancement of girls' education, gains now threatened by the Taliban's advance. The prime minister said UK officials would be flying out to Kabul to assist Afghan interpreters that served with the UK military and seeking resettlement in the UK. (With inputs from agencies)

'UK will deploy 600 troops': Boris Johnson vows not to turn back on Afghanistan

In today's newsletter, we bring for you live updates of the events in Afghanistan. Taliban has overtaken Kabul, following this President Ashraf Ghani has fled the country. The United States has also evacuated its embassy. Check out the live blog for the updates.

In other news, rescue workers are scrambling&nbsp;to locate survivors, after a magnitude 7.2 earthquake struck Haiti,&nbsp;toppling&nbsp;buildings and causing destruction.&nbsp;Over 304 people have perished in Haiti's earthquake, and hundreds are believed to be stuck under the rubble. Also joining the rescue effort are the US, Ecuador, Mexico, Chile, Argentina, Peru, and Venezuela.

Click on the headlines to read more:

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/live-taliban-take-control-of-afghanistan-presidential-palace-as-ghani-exits-country-405579">LIVE: Taliban take control of Afghanistan presidential palace as Ghani exits country</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2021/08/15/206849-untitled-design-2021-08-15t200645213.jpg" />Check out the minute by minute updates of the situation in Afghanistan, as it unfolds.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/as-us-embassy-staff-haphazardly-removed-from-kabul-blinken-rejects-comparison-with-saigon-405781">As US embassy staff haphazardly removed from Kabul, Blinken rejects comparison with Saigon</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2021/08/09/205979-untitled-design-2021-08-09t234419972.jpg" />

In spite of the sudden withdrawal of the US embassy staff from Kabul, Blinken denied any comparison with the chaotic withdrawal of Americans from Saigon at the end of the Vietnam War in 1975.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/haiti-earthquake-nation-searches-for-survivors-rescue-efforts-underway-as-at-least-304-killed-405663">Haiti Earthquake: Nation searches for survivors, rescue efforts underway as at least 304 killed</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2021/08/15/206802-untitled-design-2021-08-15t160759011.jpg" />Rescue workers are trying to locate survivors amid the destruction in Haiti.&nbsp;At least 304 people died as a result of a 7.2-magnitude earthquake which toppled buildings and devastated the country.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/back-to-harrowing-times-afghan-women-fear-taliban-rule-405547">Back to harrowing times: Afghan women fear Taliban rule</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2018/09/26/70997-Untitled%20design%20%284%29.jpg" />In the wake of the Taliban takeover, Afghanistan's women now fear that they will be forced to live through those ghastly days of Taliban&nbsp;rule (1996-2001)&nbsp;when women were not allowed to study or work and were forced to stay at home.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/malaysian-pm-yassin-to-announce-resignation-on-monday-minister-405654">Malaysian PM Yassin to announce resignation on Monday: Minister</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/10/23/166396-untitled-design-26.jpg" />

On Monday, Malaysia's embattled leader Muhyiddin Yassin will submit his resignation to the king. If he resigns, he would end his 17-month-long government and cause a lot of upheavals in the country.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/16-and-17-year-olds-in-england-to-be-offered-jab-by-august-23-405712">16 and 17-year-olds in England to be offered jab by August 23</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2021/07/12/202056-flu-vaccine.jpg" />In England, all 16 and 17-year-olds will be offered their first Coronavirus vaccination dose or the opportunity to book one by August 23.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/firefighters-in-algeria-still-at-work-to-extinguish-19-blazes-405760">Firefighters in Algeria still at work to extinguish 19 blazes</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2021/08/11/206234-algeria.jpg" />An official statement from the emergency services said its teams are working to put out 19 fires in 10 provinces in the northern part of Algeria where 90 people have been killed in wildfires this week.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/germany-set-for-biggest-rise-in-greenhouse-gases-for-30-years-405750">Germany ‘set for biggest rise in greenhouse gases' for 30 years</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2021/03/01/184954-pjimage-16.jpg" />An environmental group based in Berlin, Agora Energiewende, predicts that this year&nbsp;German greenhouse gas emissions are expected to rise to their highest level since 1990.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sex-workers-fighting-for-human-rights-are-worlds-most-at-risk-activists-405755">Sex workers fighting for human rights are world’s most ‘at risk activists’</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/07/12/149461-untitled-design-5.jpg" />In a recent study, Front Line Defenders found that advocates for sex workers are among the most at-risk for violent attacks, as they face multiple threats and persecution.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-dont-know-how-the-story-is-going-to-end-melting-glaciers-climate-change-alarm-scientists-405722">'We don't know how the story is going to end': Melting glaciers, climate change alarm scientists</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2021/08/15/206838-untitled-design-2021-08-15t184131117.jpg" />The glaciers of the world have gone extinct and are gradually shrinking because of climate change, such as Italy's Calderone ice formation, which was once Europe's southernmost glacier.

In today's newsletter, we bring for you live updates of the events in Afghanistan. Taliban has overtaken Kabul, following this President Ashraf Ghani has fled the country.

In today's newsletter, we bring for you live updates of the events in Afghanistan. Taliban has overtaken Kabul, following this President Ashraf Ghani has fled the country. The United States has also evacuated its embassy. Check out the live blog for the updates. In other news, rescue workers are scrambling to locate survivors, after a magnitude 7.2 earthquake struck Haiti, toppling buildings and causing destruction. Over 304 people have perished in Haiti's earthquake, and hundreds are believed to be stuck under the rubble. Also joining the rescue effort are the US, Ecuador, Mexico, Chile, Argentina, Peru, and Venezuela. Click on the headlines to read more: LIVE: Taliban take control of Afghanistan presidential palace as Ghani exits country Check out the minute by minute updates of the situation in Afghanistan, as it unfolds. As US embassy staff haphazardly removed from Kabul, Blinken rejects comparison with Saigon In spite of the sudden withdrawal of the US embassy staff from Kabul, Blinken denied any comparison with the chaotic withdrawal of Americans from Saigon at the end of the Vietnam War in 1975. Haiti Earthquake: Nation searches for survivors, rescue efforts underway as at least 304 killed Rescue workers are trying to locate survivors amid the destruction in Haiti. At least 304 people died as a result of a 7.2-magnitude earthquake which toppled buildings and devastated the country. Back to harrowing times: Afghan women fear Taliban rule In the wake of the Taliban takeover, Afghanistan's women now fear that they will be forced to live through those ghastly days of Taliban rule (1996-2001) when women were not allowed to study or work and were forced to stay at home. Malaysian PM Yassin to announce resignation on Monday: Minister On Monday, Malaysia's embattled leader Muhyiddin Yassin will submit his resignation to the king. If he resigns, he would end his 17-month-long government and cause a lot of upheavals in the country. 16 and 17-year-olds in England to be offered jab by August 23 In England, all 16 and 17-year-olds will be offered their first Coronavirus vaccination dose or the opportunity to book one by August 23. Firefighters in Algeria still at work to extinguish 19 blazes An official statement from the emergency services said its teams are working to put out 19 fires in 10 provinces in the northern part of Algeria where 90 people have been killed in wildfires this week. Germany ‘set for biggest rise in greenhouse gases' for 30 years An environmental group based in Berlin, Agora Energiewende, predicts that this year German greenhouse gas emissions are expected to rise to their highest level since 1990. Sex workers fighting for human rights are world’s most ‘at risk activists’ In a recent study, Front Line Defenders found that advocates for sex workers are among the most at-risk for violent attacks, as they face multiple threats and persecution. 'We don't know how the story is going to end': Melting glaciers, climate change alarm scientists The glaciers of the world have gone extinct and are gradually shrinking because of climate change, such as Italy's Calderone ice formation, which was once Europe's southernmost glacier.

Top 10 world news: Taliban takes control of Kabul, Blinken defends Biden, and more

Ashraf Ghani, who left Afghanistan on Sunday following the Taliban's rapid advance through the country and into Kabul, was twice elected Afghan president, as well as being one of the country's best-known academics.

President Ghani left the country hours after the Taliban entered the capital, government officials said. It was not yet clear where he was headed, or how power would be transferred.

<h2><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/live-president-ghani-leaves-afghanistan-as-taliban-enter-capital-kabul-405579">LIVE: President Ghani leaves Afghanistan as Taliban enter capital Kabul</a></h2>

First elected president in 2014, Ghani took over from Hamid Karzai, who led Afghanistan after the US-led invasion in 2001, and oversaw the conclusion of the US&nbsp;combat mission, the near-complete withdrawal of foreign forces from the country, as well as a fractious peace process with the insurgent Taliban.

He made the effort to end decades of war his top priority, despite continuing attacks on his government and security forces by the Taliban, and began peace talks with the insurgents in the Qatari capital of Doha in 2020.

However, Ghani, known for his quick temper alongside his deep thinking, was never accepted by the Taliban and peace talks made little headway.

Foreign governments were frustrated by the slow progress of talks, and calls grew for an interim government to replace his administration.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/dont-be-afraid-of-us-taliban-take-over-kabul-as-president-ghani-leaves-afghan-405780" hreflang="en">'Don't be afraid of us': Taliban take over Kabul as President Ghani leaves Afghan</a>

During his presidency, he managed to appoint a new generation of young, educated Afghans into leadership positions at a time the country's power corridors were occupied by a handful of elite figures and patronage networks.

He promised to fight rampant corruption, fix a crippled economy and transform the country into a regional trade hub between Central and South Asia - but was unable to deliver on most of these promises.

Long Road

A US-trained anthropologist, Ghani holds a doctorate from New York City's Columbia University and was named one of the "World's Top 100 Global Thinkers" by Foreign Policy magazine in 2010.

His road to the presidency was hard-fought.

He spent almost a quarter of century outside Afghanistan during the tumultuous decades of Soviet rule, civil war and the Taliban years in power.

During that period, he worked as an academic in the United States and later with the World Bank and the United Nations across East and South Asia.

Within months of the events of the US-led invasion of Afghanistan, he resigned from his international posts and returned to Kabul to become a senior advisor to newly-appointed President Karzai.

He served as Afghan finance minister in 2002, but fell out with Karzai, and, in 2004, was appointed chancellor of Kabul University, where he was seen as an effective reformer as well as forming a Washington-based thinktank that worked on policies to empower some of the world's most impoverished people.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/taliban-in-kabul-both-afghan-prez-and-vice-prez-have-left-the-country-405779/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

In 2009, Ghani, who belongs to Afghanistan's majority Pashtun ethnicity like Karzai, ran for president but came in fourth, securing about 4% of the national vote.

He continued to work in important roles in Afghanistan, including as Afghanistan's "transition czar", chairing a body overseeing security transition from NATO to Afghans.

With Karzai barred by the Afghan constitution from standing for a third time, Ghani mounted a successful second campaign in 2014. He was re-elected in 2019.

His relationship with Washington and other Western capitals was uneasy.

He was a vocal critic of what he termed wasted international aid in Afghanistan and often did not see eye to eye with the West's Afghan strategy, particularly as they looked to fast-track a slow and painful peace process with the Taliban.

In an interview with the BBC, Ghani said: "the future will be determined by the people of Afghanistan, not by somebody sitting behind the desk, dreaming".

Ashraf Ghani, who left Afghanistan on Sunday following the Taliban's rapid advance through the country and into Kabul, was twice elected Afghan president, as well as being one of the country's best-known academics.

Ashraf Ghani, who left Afghanistan on Sunday following the Taliban's rapid advance through the country and into Kabul, was twice elected Afghan president, as well as being one of the country's best-known academics. President Ghani left the country hours after the Taliban entered the capital, government officials said. It was not yet clear where he was headed, or how power would be transferred. LIVE: President Ghani leaves Afghanistan as Taliban enter capital Kabul First elected president in 2014, Ghani took over from Hamid Karzai, who led Afghanistan after the US-led invasion in 2001, and oversaw the conclusion of the US combat mission, the near-complete withdrawal of foreign forces from the country, as well as a fractious peace process with the insurgent Taliban. He made the effort to end decades of war his top priority, despite continuing attacks on his government and security forces by the Taliban, and began peace talks with the insurgents in the Qatari capital of Doha in 2020. However, Ghani, known for his quick temper alongside his deep thinking, was never accepted by the Taliban and peace talks made little headway. Foreign governments were frustrated by the slow progress of talks, and calls grew for an interim government to replace his administration. Also read | 'Don't be afraid of us': Taliban take over Kabul as President Ghani leaves Afghan During his presidency, he managed to appoint a new generation of young, educated Afghans into leadership positions at a time the country's power corridors were occupied by a handful of elite figures and patronage networks. He promised to fight rampant corruption, fix a crippled economy and transform the country into a regional trade hub between Central and South Asia - but was unable to deliver on most of these promises. Long Road A US-trained anthropologist, Ghani holds a doctorate from New York City's Columbia University and was named one of the "World's Top 100 Global Thinkers" by Foreign Policy magazine in 2010. His road to the presidency was hard-fought. He spent almost a quarter of century outside Afghanistan during the tumultuous decades of Soviet rule, civil war and the Taliban years in power. During that period, he worked as an academic in the United States and later with the World Bank and the United Nations across East and South Asia. Within months of the events of the US-led invasion of Afghanistan, he resigned from his international posts and returned to Kabul to become a senior advisor to newly-appointed President Karzai. He served as Afghan finance minister in 2002, but fell out with Karzai, and, in 2004, was appointed chancellor of Kabul University, where he was seen as an effective reformer as well as forming a Washington-based thinktank that worked on policies to empower some of the world's most impoverished people. In 2009, Ghani, who belongs to Afghanistan's majority Pashtun ethnicity like Karzai, ran for president but came in fourth, securing about 4% of the national vote. He continued to work in important roles in Afghanistan, including as Afghanistan's "transition czar", chairing a body overseeing security transition from NATO to Afghans. With Karzai barred by the Afghan constitution from standing for a third time, Ghani mounted a successful second campaign in 2014. He was re-elected in 2019. His relationship with Washington and other Western capitals was uneasy. He was a vocal critic of what he termed wasted international aid in Afghanistan and often did not see eye to eye with the West's Afghan strategy, particularly as they looked to fast-track a slow and painful peace process with the Taliban. In an interview with the BBC, Ghani said: "the future will be determined by the people of Afghanistan, not by somebody sitting behind the desk, dreaming".

Ashraf Ghani: Departing Afghan president who failed to make peace with Taliban

United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken said that all the US embassy staff in Kabul are being moved to the airport as the Taliban attacked the Afghan capital.

Taliban fighters had been ordered to wait on the outskirts of Kabul, and the government admitted it was preparing for a "transfer of power."

<h2><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/live-president-ghani-leaves-afghanistan-as-taliban-enter-capital-kabul-405579">LIVE: President Ghani leaves Afghanistan as Taliban enter capital Kabul</a></h2>

"It's why we had forces on hand to make sure we could do this in a safe and orderly fashion. The compound itself, folks are leaving there and going to the airport," said&nbsp;Blinken&nbsp;while talking to ABC.

Even with the sudden withdrawal, he rejected comparisons with the 1975 chaotic departure of Americans from Saigon at the end of the Vietnam War.

"This is not Saigon," said&nbsp;Blinken. "The fact of the matter is this: We went to Afghanistan 20 years ago with one mission in mind. That was to deal with the people that attacked us on 9/11. That mission has been successful."

"The US has succeeded in its mission to stop attacks on US."

"It's simply not in our interests to remain in Afghanistan," he added.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-nato-eu-un-confirm-they-will-not-recognise-govt-formed-through-military-405223" hreflang="en">Afghanistan: NATO, EU, UN confirm they will not recognise govt formed through military</a>

In an astonishingly quick rout, the Taliban forced government forces to abandon Kabul, who, without US assistance, proved unable to hold onto territory.

As Afghan security forces left parts of Kabul city and their checkpoints, Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid said the forces entered the city to prevent looting and chaos.

The Afghani leader has also advised locals not to be scared by the Taliban and not to panic about their entry into the city.

Kabul's fall will mark the return of the Taliban to power two decades after it was toppled by US-led forces after the September 11 attacks.

(With inputs from agencies)

United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken said that all the US embassy staff in Kabul are being moved to the airport as the Taliban attacked the Afghan capital.

United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken said that all the US embassy staff in Kabul are being moved to the airport as the Taliban attacked the Afghan capital. Taliban fighters had been ordered to wait on the outskirts of Kabul, and the government admitted it was preparing for a "transfer of power." LIVE: President Ghani leaves Afghanistan as Taliban enter capital Kabul "It's why we had forces on hand to make sure we could do this in a safe and orderly fashion. The compound itself, folks are leaving there and going to the airport," said Blinken while talking to ABC. Even with the sudden withdrawal, he rejected comparisons with the 1975 chaotic departure of Americans from Saigon at the end of the Vietnam War. "This is not Saigon," said Blinken. "The fact of the matter is this: We went to Afghanistan 20 years ago with one mission in mind. That was to deal with the people that attacked us on 9/11. That mission has been successful." "The US has succeeded in its mission to stop attacks on US." "It's simply not in our interests to remain in Afghanistan," he added. Also read | Afghanistan: NATO, EU, UN confirm they will not recognise govt formed through military In an astonishingly quick rout, the Taliban forced government forces to abandon Kabul, who, without US assistance, proved unable to hold onto territory. As Afghan security forces left parts of Kabul city and their checkpoints, Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid said the forces entered the city to prevent looting and chaos. The Afghani leader has also advised locals not to be scared by the Taliban and not to panic about their entry into the city. Kabul's fall will mark the return of the Taliban to power two decades after it was toppled by US-led forces after the September 11 attacks. (With inputs from agencies)

As US embassy staff haphazardly removed from Kabul, Blinken rejects comparison with Saigon

The Taliban want to take control of&nbsp;Afghanistan&nbsp;"in the next few days", a spokesman for the group told the BBC Sunday, as their fighters encircled the capital.

"In next few days, we want a peaceful transfer," Suhail Shaheen, based in Qatar as part of the group's negotiating team, told the BBC.

<h2><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/live-president-ghani-leaves-afghanistan-as-taliban-enter-capital-kabul-405579">LIVE: President Ghani leaves Afghanistan as Taliban enter capital Kabul</a></h2>

Shaheen laid out the policies of the Taliban ahead of an expected power transfer that would re-install the hardline Islamic group two decades after US-led forces toppled them in the wake of the September 11, 2001 attacks.

"We want an inclusive Islamic government... that means all Afghans will be part of that government," Shaheen said.&nbsp;

"We will see that in the future as the peaceful transfer is taking place."

He also said foreign embassies and workers would not be targeted by the group's fighters and they should remain in the country.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/back-to-harrowing-times-afghan-women-fear-taliban-rule-405547">Back to harrowing times: Afghan women fear Taliban rule</a>

"There will be no risk to diplomats, NGOs, to anyone. All should continue their work as they were continuing in the past. They won’t harm them, they should remain."

Rebuffing fears the country would be plunged back to the dark days of the group's ultra-conservative version of Islamic law, Shaheen said the Taliban will instead seek a "new chapter" of tolerance.

"We want to work with any Afghan, we want to open a new chapter of peace, tolerance, peaceful coexistence and national unity for the country and for the people of&nbsp;Afghanistan," he said.

But many officials, soldiers and police have surrendered or abandoned their posts, fearing reprisals against anyone suspected of working with the Western-backed government or Western forces.

Shaheen said that would not happen.

"We reassure that there is no revenge on anyone. Any case will be investigated."

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The Doha-based spokesman said the group would also review its relationship with the United States, which it has waged a deadly insurgency against for decades.

"Our relationship was in the past," he said. "In future, if it will touch our agenda no more, it will be a new chapter of cooperation."

The Taliban want to take control of Afghanistan "in the next few days", a spokesman for the group told the BBC Sunday, as their fighters encircled the capital. "In next few days, we want a peaceful transfer," Suhail Shaheen, based in Qatar as part of the group's negotiating team, told the BBC.

The Taliban want to take control of Afghanistan "in the next few days", a spokesman for the group told the BBC Sunday, as their fighters encircled the capital. "In next few days, we want a peaceful transfer," Suhail Shaheen, based in Qatar as part of the group's negotiating team, told the BBC. LIVE: President Ghani leaves Afghanistan as Taliban enter capital Kabul Shaheen laid out the policies of the Taliban ahead of an expected power transfer that would re-install the hardline Islamic group two decades after US-led forces toppled them in the wake of the September 11, 2001 attacks. "We want an inclusive Islamic government... that means all Afghans will be part of that government," Shaheen said. "We will see that in the future as the peaceful transfer is taking place." He also said foreign embassies and workers would not be targeted by the group's fighters and they should remain in the country. Also read | Back to harrowing times: Afghan women fear Taliban rule "There will be no risk to diplomats, NGOs, to anyone. All should continue their work as they were continuing in the past. They won’t harm them, they should remain." Rebuffing fears the country would be plunged back to the dark days of the group's ultra-conservative version of Islamic law, Shaheen said the Taliban will instead seek a "new chapter" of tolerance. "We want to work with any Afghan, we want to open a new chapter of peace, tolerance, peaceful coexistence and national unity for the country and for the people of Afghanistan," he said. But many officials, soldiers and police have surrendered or abandoned their posts, fearing reprisals against anyone suspected of working with the Western-backed government or Western forces. Shaheen said that would not happen. "We reassure that there is no revenge on anyone. Any case will be investigated." The Doha-based spokesman said the group would also review its relationship with the United States, which it has waged a deadly insurgency against for decades. "Our relationship was in the past," he said. "In future, if it will touch our agenda no more, it will be a new chapter of cooperation."

Taliban want peaceful transfer of power in 'next few days'

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson was on Sunday to hold further crisis talks on&nbsp;Afghanistan, his office said, as he recalled parliament from its summer break.

A Downing Street spokesperson said Johnson had called a meeting of the COBR emergencies committee to discuss the situation, which follows the withdrawal of US-led forces, the second such meeting in three days.

<h2><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/live-president-ghani-leaves-afghanistan-as-taliban-enter-capital-kabul-405579">LIVE: President Ghani leaves Afghanistan as Taliban enter capital Kabul</a></h2>

Parliament on Sunday said it had approved Johnson's request to call back MPs on Wednesday for an urgent debate on what Britain, which lost 457 troops in the two-decade-long war, should do next.

Taliban fighters were on the outskirts of Kabul on Sunday and on the brink of a complete military takeover of&nbsp;Afghanistan, leading British politicians to call for a last-ditch intervention.

Conservative MP Tobias Ellwood, chairman of the Commons Defence Committee, urged Johnson to "think again" about stepping in.

"We have an ever-shrinking window of opportunity to recognise where this country is going as a failed state," he told Times Radio.

"Just because the Americans won't, does not mean to say that we should be tied to the thinking, the political judgement -- particularly when it is so wrong -- of our closest security ally.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-ban-covid-19-vaccine-in-eastern-afghanistans-paktia-province-report-405235" hreflang="en">Taliban ban COVID-19 vaccine in Eastern Afghanistan's Paktia province: Report</a>

"We could prevent this, otherwise history will judge us very, very harshly in not stepping in," he warned.

Ellwood said the government could deploy the Royal Navy's HMS Queen Elizabeth carrier strike group to provide air support.

He called the crisis "the biggest single policy disaster since Suez".

'Deeply shocking'&nbsp;

Johnson vowed on Friday that Britain will not "turn our backs" on&nbsp;Afghanistan, even as he confirmed the imminent withdrawal of most embassy staff in the face of a rapid Taliban onslaught.

However, he said that those calling for an intervention "have got to be realistic about the power of the UK or any power to impose a military solution -- a combat solution -- in&nbsp;Afghanistan".

With the Islamists seizing control of more Afghan cities, Britain is deploying around 600 troops to help evacuate its roughly 3,000 nationals from the country, and Johnson said the "vast bulk" of remaining embassy staff in Kabul would return to the UK.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-captures-mazar-e-sharif-fourth-largest-city-of-afghanistan-405447" hreflang="en">Taliban captures Mazar-e-Sharif, fourth largest city of Afghanistan</a>

The Foreign Office said on Sunday that Britain had "temporarily&nbsp;suspended most operations" at its embassy in Kabul and was doing "all we can to enable remaining British nationals, and those Afghans who have worked for us and who are eligible for relocation, to leave&nbsp;Afghanistan".

Opposition Labour leader Keir Starmer backed the move to recall parliament, saying in a statement: "The situation in&nbsp;Afghanistan&nbsp;is deeply shocking and seems to be worsening by the hour.

"The government has been silent while&nbsp;Afghanistan&nbsp;collapses, which, let's be clear will have ramifications for us here in the UK.

"We need parliament recalled so the government can update MPs on how it plans to work with allies to avoid a humanitarian crisis and a return to the days of&nbsp;Afghanistan&nbsp;being a base for extremists."

Most of the remaining British troops assigned to the NATO mission in&nbsp;Afghanistan&nbsp;left last month, according to Johnson.

As well as the fallen troops, the conflict has cost Britain around £40 billion ($55 billion, 46.7 billion euros).

In 2014, the British mission in&nbsp;Afghanistan, centred on the restive southern province of Helmand, shifted from a combat operation to one focused on supporting Afghan national forces, with the help of around 750 troops.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson was on Sunday to hold further crisis talks on Afghanistan, his office said, as he recalled parliament from its summer break.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson was on Sunday to hold further crisis talks on Afghanistan, his office said, as he recalled parliament from its summer break. A Downing Street spokesperson said Johnson had called a meeting of the COBR emergencies committee to discuss the situation, which follows the withdrawal of US-led forces, the second such meeting in three days. LIVE: President Ghani leaves Afghanistan as Taliban enter capital Kabul Parliament on Sunday said it had approved Johnson's request to call back MPs on Wednesday for an urgent debate on what Britain, which lost 457 troops in the two-decade-long war, should do next. Taliban fighters were on the outskirts of Kabul on Sunday and on the brink of a complete military takeover of Afghanistan, leading British politicians to call for a last-ditch intervention. Conservative MP Tobias Ellwood, chairman of the Commons Defence Committee, urged Johnson to "think again" about stepping in. "We have an ever-shrinking window of opportunity to recognise where this country is going as a failed state," he told Times Radio. "Just because the Americans won't, does not mean to say that we should be tied to the thinking, the political judgement -- particularly when it is so wrong -- of our closest security ally. Also read | Taliban ban COVID-19 vaccine in Eastern Afghanistan's Paktia province: Report "We could prevent this, otherwise history will judge us very, very harshly in not stepping in," he warned. Ellwood said the government could deploy the Royal Navy's HMS Queen Elizabeth carrier strike group to provide air support. He called the crisis "the biggest single policy disaster since Suez". 'Deeply shocking' Johnson vowed on Friday that Britain will not "turn our backs" on Afghanistan, even as he confirmed the imminent withdrawal of most embassy staff in the face of a rapid Taliban onslaught. However, he said that those calling for an intervention "have got to be realistic about the power of the UK or any power to impose a military solution -- a combat solution -- in Afghanistan". With the Islamists seizing control of more Afghan cities, Britain is deploying around 600 troops to help evacuate its roughly 3,000 nationals from the country, and Johnson said the "vast bulk" of remaining embassy staff in Kabul would return to the UK. Also read | Taliban captures Mazar-e-Sharif, fourth largest city of Afghanistan The Foreign Office said on Sunday that Britain had "temporarily suspended most operations" at its embassy in Kabul and was doing "all we can to enable remaining British nationals, and those Afghans who have worked for us and who are eligible for relocation, to leave Afghanistan". Opposition Labour leader Keir Starmer backed the move to recall parliament, saying in a statement: "The situation in Afghanistan is deeply shocking and seems to be worsening by the hour. "The government has been silent while Afghanistan collapses, which, let's be clear will have ramifications for us here in the UK. "We need parliament recalled so the government can update MPs on how it plans to work with allies to avoid a humanitarian crisis and a return to the days of Afghanistan being a base for extremists." Most of the remaining British troops assigned to the NATO mission in Afghanistan left last month, according to Johnson. As well as the fallen troops, the conflict has cost Britain around £40 billion ($55 billion, 46.7 billion euros). In 2014, the British mission in Afghanistan, centred on the restive southern province of Helmand, shifted from a combat operation to one focused on supporting Afghan national forces, with the help of around 750 troops.

UK PM holds Afghanistan crisis talks, recalls parliament

Libyan authorities have shut water supplies to swathes of the country after gunmen demanding the release of a jailed Kadhafi-era official threatened to sabotage the water network.

Supplies to western and southwestern&nbsp;Libya&nbsp;were interrupted overnight Saturday to Sunday, the Great Man-Made River water authority said.

It took the decision to cut the supply after gunmen Thursday stormed several water distribution centres demanding the release of Abdullah al-Senussi.

A brother-in-law of longtime dictator Moamer Kadhafi, Senussi was sentenced to death in 2015 over his alleged role in attempting to suppress the 2011 uprising that culminated in Kadhafi's ouster and killing.

On Thursday, gunmen gave authorities 72 hours to release Senussi from detention in the capital Tripoli, the water authority said.

If their demands were not met they planned on attacking the network which brings water from underground wells in the Sahara to Tripoli.

A statement from the Great Man-Made River authority said it was preferable to cut the water supply than see it damaged in any potential attack.

Senussi was extradited in September 2012 by Mauritania, where he fled after Kadhafi's fall.

He was the subject of an International Criminal Court arrest warrant for suspected war crimes during the 2011 uprising.

In 2013 the court gave Libyan authorities the green light to put him on trial.

Libyan authorities have shut water supplies to swathes of the country after gunmen demanding the release of a jailed Kadhafi-era official threatened to sabotage the water network.

Libyan authorities have shut water supplies to swathes of the country after gunmen demanding the release of a jailed Kadhafi-era official threatened to sabotage the water network. Supplies to western and southwestern Libya were interrupted overnight Saturday to Sunday, the Great Man-Made River water authority said. It took the decision to cut the supply after gunmen Thursday stormed several water distribution centres demanding the release of Abdullah al-Senussi. A brother-in-law of longtime dictator Moamer Kadhafi, Senussi was sentenced to death in 2015 over his alleged role in attempting to suppress the 2011 uprising that culminated in Kadhafi's ouster and killing. On Thursday, gunmen gave authorities 72 hours to release Senussi from detention in the capital Tripoli, the water authority said. If their demands were not met they planned on attacking the network which brings water from underground wells in the Sahara to Tripoli. A statement from the Great Man-Made River authority said it was preferable to cut the water supply than see it damaged in any potential attack. Senussi was extradited in September 2012 by Mauritania, where he fled after Kadhafi's fall. He was the subject of an International Criminal Court arrest warrant for suspected war crimes during the 2011 uprising. In 2013 the court gave Libyan authorities the green light to put him on trial.

Swathes of Libya without water after sabotage threats

A 7.2 magnitude earthquake struck Haiti on Saturday, killing at least 227 people and injuring many others&nbsp;around the country, and raising fears of Tsunami.

Video footage from the country showed several buildings getting toppled by the strong earthquake as people rushed to find shelter.

The epicentre of this strong quake was nearly 100 miles (160 kilometres) from the centre of the densely populated capital Port-au-Prince.

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💔🇭🇹🕯️ My heart goes out to Haiti. Aug 14, 2021. Magnitude 7.2 earthquake struck the south of the country. <a href="https://t.co/lljbOET73M">pic.twitter.com/lljbOET73M</a>
— Centre Toussaint (@CentreToussaint) <a href="https://twitter.com/CentreToussaint/status/1426567171690450946?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 14, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/several-areas-in-japan-issue-evacuation-alert-after-floods-and-landslides-405378">Several areas in Japan issue evacuation alert after floods and landslides</a>

The USGS issued a Tsunami warning immediately after the earthquake. The experts calculated the possibility of waves of up to three meters (nearly 10 feet) along the coastline of Haiti. While the warning has been, reportedly, lifted now, locals have been told to exercise caution.

Meanwhile, the US President Joe Biden has approved immediate help for the grieving nation. "The president authorized an immediate US response, and named USAID Administrator Samantha Power... to coordinate this effort," a senior White House official said.

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We need more than prayers <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Haiti?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Haiti</a> 😭 <a href="https://t.co/tWaQn26NH5">pic.twitter.com/tWaQn26NH5</a>
— ✨Nene 🇭🇹 (@yntch0) <a href="https://twitter.com/yntch0/status/1426571695238811654?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 14, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Saturday’s earthquake has reminded people of the 2010 which took thousands of lives, flattened several buildings and left the country struggling economically for years.

This earthquake has also come a little after the assassination of Haiti’s President Jovenel Moise, who was gunned down in his home. His assassination had sent the country into a political crisis, as the country was already struggling to control the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus</a> pandemic.

A 7.2 magnitude earthquake struck Haiti on Saturday, killing at least 227 people and injuring many others around the country, and raising fears of Tsunami. Video footage from the country showed several buildings getting toppled by the strong earthquake as people rushed to find shelter.

A 7.2 magnitude earthquake struck Haiti on Saturday, killing at least 227 people and injuring many others around the country, and raising fears of Tsunami. Video footage from the country showed several buildings getting toppled by the strong earthquake as people rushed to find shelter. The epicentre of this strong quake was nearly 100 miles (160 kilometres) from the centre of the densely populated capital Port-au-Prince. 💔🇭🇹🕯️ My heart goes out to Haiti. Aug 14, 2021. Magnitude 7.2 earthquake struck the south of the country. pic.twitter.com/lljbOET73M — Centre Toussaint (@CentreToussaint) August 14, 2021 × Also read | Several areas in Japan issue evacuation alert after floods and landslides The USGS issued a Tsunami warning immediately after the earthquake. The experts calculated the possibility of waves of up to three meters (nearly 10 feet) along the coastline of Haiti. While the warning has been, reportedly, lifted now, locals have been told to exercise caution. Meanwhile, the US President Joe Biden has approved immediate help for the grieving nation. "The president authorized an immediate US response, and named USAID Administrator Samantha Power... to coordinate this effort," a senior White House official said. We need more than prayers #Haiti 😭 pic.twitter.com/tWaQn26NH5 — ✨Nene 🇭🇹 (@yntch0) August 14, 2021 × Saturday’s earthquake has reminded people of the 2010 which took thousands of lives, flattened several buildings and left the country struggling economically for years. This earthquake has also come a little after the assassination of Haiti’s President Jovenel Moise, who was gunned down in his home. His assassination had sent the country into a political crisis, as the country was already struggling to control the coronavirus pandemic.

At least 227 people dead, several injured in Haiti's 7.2 magnitude earthquake

Lebanon's&nbsp;army&nbsp;Saturday raided gas stations and seized&nbsp;petrol&nbsp;to curb hoarding as the central&nbsp;bank&nbsp;chief&nbsp;stood&nbsp;firm&nbsp;on&nbsp;his decision to halt&nbsp;fuel&nbsp;subsidies.

Lebanon&nbsp;is gripped by one of the world's worst economic crises since the 1850s, according to the&nbsp;World Bank, and is struggling with&nbsp;fuel, bread and medicine shortages.

On&nbsp;Wednesday central&nbsp;bank&nbsp;chief&nbsp;Riad Salameh said he would halt state&nbsp;subsidies&nbsp;on&nbsp;fuel&nbsp;imports to ease pressure&nbsp;on&nbsp;the&nbsp;bank's dwindling foreign reserves, sparking panic across the country.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/diapers-and-rags-lebanon-crisis-plunges-women-into-period-poverty-395140">Diapers and rags: Lebanon crisis plunges women into period poverty</a>

Saturday Salameh insisted he would not back down from his decision without a parliamentary vote, saying foreign reserves had fallen to $14 billion.

"I will not review the removal of&nbsp;subsidies&nbsp;on&nbsp;fuel&nbsp;unless the use of compulsory reserves is legalised" by a parliamentary vote, he told local radio.

The Lebanese pound has lost more than 90 per cent of its value&nbsp;on&nbsp;the black market, and 78 per cent of the population lives below the poverty line.&nbsp;

Crippling shortages of&nbsp;fuel&nbsp;and power cuts lasting more than 22 hours per day have left many businesses and homes without the&nbsp;diesel&nbsp;needed to power private generators, plunging the country into darkness.&nbsp;

They have also caused giant queues at&nbsp;petrol&nbsp;stations that are rationing gasoline supply, allegedly because of low stock.&nbsp;

Fuel&nbsp;importers blame the crisis&nbsp;on&nbsp;a delay by the central&nbsp;bank&nbsp;in opening credit lines to fund imports.

Salameh denied those charges&nbsp;on&nbsp;Saturday, accusing importers and distributors of holding back&nbsp;fuel&nbsp;to sell it at higher prices in the black market, or across the border in Syria.&nbsp;

"The importers are to blame," Salameh said, accusing them of squandering $820 million the lender had fronted for three months of imports.&nbsp;

Army&nbsp;deploys&nbsp;

To stem hoarding, the&nbsp;army&nbsp;on&nbsp;Saturday said it was raiding closed gas stations to seize gasoline and distribute it "free of charge" to the people.

It shared pictures and video footage&nbsp;on&nbsp;its social media pages, showing soldiers working&nbsp;pumps&nbsp;at gas stations and filling up car tanks.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/protests-rock-lebanon-ahead-of-fuel-price-hike-394575">Protests rock Lebanon ahead of fuel price hike</a>

An AFP correspondent saw soldiers deployed at several gas stations north of Beirut, where hundreds of vehicles had been queueing for long hours to fill up&nbsp;on&nbsp;petrol.

Video footage posted online showed motorists cheering as the&nbsp;army&nbsp;raided gas stations.

But some Lebanese remained bitter.

"The&nbsp;army's decision is too late," said one motorist who had been waiting for hours in the simmering heat.&nbsp;

After the&nbsp;army's deployment, many&nbsp;petrol&nbsp;stations across the country reopened after closing for several days.&nbsp;

The police also announced Saturday they would dispatch patrols to gas stations believed to be hoarding&nbsp;fuel&nbsp;and confiscate it.

Political crisis&nbsp;

The central&nbsp;bank's funding of&nbsp;fuel&nbsp;and other basic commodity imports has contributed to foreign reserves falling by more than 50 per cent from their pre-crisis level of more than $30 billion.&nbsp;

Salameh blamed&nbsp;Lebanon's ruling class for the crisis.&nbsp;

"Everybody was aware... they were aware in government, parliament and the president's office" that reserves were critically low, Salameh said, accusing them of inaction.&nbsp;

Salameh has headed the central&nbsp;bank&nbsp;since 1993 and is suspected by many Lebanese of helping facilitate large transfers of money abroad by the political elite during mass protests that began in October 2019. &nbsp;

He is under judicial investigation in&nbsp;Lebanon, Switzerland and France over several cases, including the diversion of public funds and illicit enrichment.

At home, many blame him for capital controls in place since 2019 that have trapped dollar savings and denied even the poorest segment of the population free access to their deposits.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/lebanese-govt-central-bank-clash-on-ending-fuel-subsidies-in-lebanon-405169/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

But Salameh has pinned the blame&nbsp;on&nbsp;politicians who have failed to agree&nbsp;on&nbsp;a new government more than one year since caretaker premier Hassan Diab resigned in the wake of a monster explosion at the Beirut port.

International donors who have pledged millions in humanitarian aid to&nbsp;Lebanon&nbsp;have&nbsp;conditioned assistance&nbsp;on&nbsp;the formation of a new government that can spearhead reforms and resume negotiations with the International Monetary Fund.&nbsp;

Lebanon's army Saturday raided gas stations and seized petrol to curb hoarding as the central bank chief stood firm on his decision to halt fuel subsidies. Lebanon is gripped by one of the world's worst economic crises since the 1850s, according to the World Bank, and is struggling with fuel, bread and medicine shortages.

Lebanon's army Saturday raided gas stations and seized petrol to curb hoarding as the central bank chief stood firm on his decision to halt fuel subsidies. Lebanon is gripped by one of the world's worst economic crises since the 1850s, according to the World Bank, and is struggling with fuel, bread and medicine shortages. On Wednesday central bank chief Riad Salameh said he would halt state subsidies on fuel imports to ease pressure on the bank's dwindling foreign reserves, sparking panic across the country. Also read | Diapers and rags: Lebanon crisis plunges women into period poverty Saturday Salameh insisted he would not back down from his decision without a parliamentary vote, saying foreign reserves had fallen to $14 billion. "I will not review the removal of subsidies on fuel unless the use of compulsory reserves is legalised" by a parliamentary vote, he told local radio. The Lebanese pound has lost more than 90 per cent of its value on the black market, and 78 per cent of the population lives below the poverty line. Crippling shortages of fuel and power cuts lasting more than 22 hours per day have left many businesses and homes without the diesel needed to power private generators, plunging the country into darkness. They have also caused giant queues at petrol stations that are rationing gasoline supply, allegedly because of low stock. Fuel importers blame the crisis on a delay by the central bank in opening credit lines to fund imports. Salameh denied those charges on Saturday, accusing importers and distributors of holding back fuel to sell it at higher prices in the black market, or across the border in Syria. "The importers are to blame," Salameh said, accusing them of squandering $820 million the lender had fronted for three months of imports. Army deploys To stem hoarding, the army on Saturday said it was raiding closed gas stations to seize gasoline and distribute it "free of charge" to the people. It shared pictures and video footage on its social media pages, showing soldiers working pumps at gas stations and filling up car tanks. Also read | Protests rock Lebanon ahead of fuel price hike An AFP correspondent saw soldiers deployed at several gas stations north of Beirut, where hundreds of vehicles had been queueing for long hours to fill up on petrol. Video footage posted online showed motorists cheering as the army raided gas stations. But some Lebanese remained bitter. "The army's decision is too late," said one motorist who had been waiting for hours in the simmering heat. After the army's deployment, many petrol stations across the country reopened after closing for several days. The police also announced Saturday they would dispatch patrols to gas stations believed to be hoarding fuel and confiscate it. Political crisis The central bank's funding of fuel and other basic commodity imports has contributed to foreign reserves falling by more than 50 per cent from their pre-crisis level of more than $30 billion. Salameh blamed Lebanon's ruling class for the crisis. "Everybody was aware... they were aware in government, parliament and the president's office" that reserves were critically low, Salameh said, accusing them of inaction. Salameh has headed the central bank since 1993 and is suspected by many Lebanese of helping facilitate large transfers of money abroad by the political elite during mass protests that began in October 2019. He is under judicial investigation in Lebanon, Switzerland and France over several cases, including the diversion of public funds and illicit enrichment. At home, many blame him for capital controls in place since 2019 that have trapped dollar savings and denied even the poorest segment of the population free access to their deposits. But Salameh has pinned the blame on politicians who have failed to agree on a new government more than one year since caretaker premier Hassan Diab resigned in the wake of a monster explosion at the Beirut port. International donors who have pledged millions in humanitarian aid to Lebanon have conditioned assistance on the formation of a new government that can spearhead reforms and resume negotiations with the International Monetary Fund.

Lebanon army deploys at pumps as bank chief firm on lifting fuel subsidies

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