Australia’s financial intelligence agency has found that Russian paramilitary groups are seeking cryptocurrency donations on social media. Have Australians been funding Russian troops and terrorist organisations like Al-Qaeda using cryptocurrency? Priyanka Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: Cryptocurrency: New tool for money laundering

Terrorist organisation Al-Qaeda released a 35-minute video narrated by its leader Ayman al-Zawahiri, reported to have been killed on July 31, 2022 in a CIA drone strike in Afghanistan's Kabul.&nbsp;

The latest recording is undated and the transcript did not point towards a time frame for when it could have been made.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/wion-reaches-kabul-safehouse-where-al-qaeda-chief-ayman-al-zawahiri-was-killed-in-drone-strike-503706">WION reaches Kabul ‘safehouse’ where al-Qaeda chief Ayman al-Zawahiri was ‘killed’ in drone strike</a>

Ayman al-Zawahiri had been in hiding for years, and the operation to locate and kill him was the result of "careful, patient and persistent" work by the counterterrorism and intelligence community, a senior U.S. administration official was quoted as saying by Reuters.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/report-al-qaeda-chief-ayman-al-zawahiri-dies-in-afghanistan-344342">Report: Al-Qaeda chief Ayman Al-Zawahiri dies in Afghanistan</a>

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Al-Qaeda has not named a successor. But Saif al-Adel, a mysterious, low-key former Egyptian special forces officer who is a high-ranking member of Al Qaeda, is widely perceived as the top contender.

The United States is offering a reward of up to $10 million for information leading to Saif al-Adel's arrest.

Who was Ayman al-Zawahiri?

Egypt-born Ayman al-Zawahiri was the second emir of al-Qaeda, starting from June 2011, a month after its founder Osama bin Laden was killed by a US special operations unit in Pakistan's Abbotabad. A surgeon by qualification, during Soviet-Afghan war, Ayman al-Zawahiri along with Osama bin Laden co-founded Maktab-al-Khidmat (Afghan Services Bureau) in 1984 to recruit jihadists to fight against Soviets in Afghanistan. In 1988, the al-Zawahiri, as one of the most trusted lieutenants of Osama bin Laden, emerged as Al-Qaeda's founding member.&nbsp;

Ayman al-Zawahiri was one of the hundreds arrested for plotting former Egyptian president Anwar Sadat's assassination. The 1995 attack on Egyptian embassy in Islamabad was carried out by the Egyptian Islamic Jihad with al-Zawahiri at top.&nbsp;

He was placed under international sanctions in 1999 by the United Nations' Al-Qaida and Taliban Sanctions Committee.

In the aftermath of attack on World Trade Centre in September 2001, al-Zawahiri appeared on the list of the US Federal Bureau of Investigation's top 22 Most Wanted Terrorists, which was released to the public by U.S. President George W. Bush.&nbsp;

Ayman al-Zawahiri is survived by his third wife Umaima Hassan and seven children.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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Terrorist organisation Al-Qaeda released a 35-minute video narrated by its leader Ayman al-Zawahiri, reported to have been killed on July 31, 2022 in a CIA drone strike in Afghanistan's Kabul.

Terrorist organisation Al-Qaeda released a 35-minute video narrated by its leader Ayman al-Zawahiri, reported to have been killed on July 31, 2022 in a CIA drone strike in Afghanistan's Kabul. The latest recording is undated and the transcript did not point towards a time frame for when it could have been made. ALSO READ | WION reaches Kabul ‘safehouse’ where al-Qaeda chief Ayman al-Zawahiri was ‘killed’ in drone strike Ayman al-Zawahiri had been in hiding for years, and the operation to locate and kill him was the result of "careful, patient and persistent" work by the counterterrorism and intelligence community, a senior U.S. administration official was quoted as saying by Reuters. WATCH | Report: Al-Qaeda chief Ayman Al-Zawahiri dies in Afghanistan × Al-Qaeda has not named a successor. But Saif al-Adel, a mysterious, low-key former Egyptian special forces officer who is a high-ranking member of Al Qaeda, is widely perceived as the top contender. The United States is offering a reward of up to $10 million for information leading to Saif al-Adel's arrest. Who was Ayman al-Zawahiri? Egypt-born Ayman al-Zawahiri was the second emir of al-Qaeda, starting from June 2011, a month after its founder Osama bin Laden was killed by a US special operations unit in Pakistan's Abbotabad. A surgeon by qualification, during Soviet-Afghan war, Ayman al-Zawahiri along with Osama bin Laden co-founded Maktab-al-Khidmat (Afghan Services Bureau) in 1984 to recruit jihadists to fight against Soviets in Afghanistan. In 1988, the al-Zawahiri, as one of the most trusted lieutenants of Osama bin Laden, emerged as Al-Qaeda's founding member. Ayman al-Zawahiri was one of the hundreds arrested for plotting former Egyptian president Anwar Sadat's assassination. The 1995 attack on Egyptian embassy in Islamabad was carried out by the Egyptian Islamic Jihad with al-Zawahiri at top. He was placed under international sanctions in 1999 by the United Nations' Al-Qaida and Taliban Sanctions Committee. In the aftermath of attack on World Trade Centre in September 2001, al-Zawahiri appeared on the list of the US Federal Bureau of Investigation's top 22 Most Wanted Terrorists, which was released to the public by U.S. President George W. Bush. Ayman al-Zawahiri is survived by his third wife Umaima Hassan and seven children. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Al-Qaeda says latest video narrated by Al-Zawahiri 'dead' for five months

As tens of thousands of refugees shiver in the cold on Turkey’s borders with Europe and a new phase of the brutal Syrian war erupts - Russia, Turkey, the European Union (EU) and the international community are being presented with the bill for a flawed, short-term approach to the nine-year-old conflict that largely lacked empathy for millions of victims and was likely to magnify rather than resolve problems.

The failure of Western policymakers to adopt an approach that would have served Europe’s longer-term security interests and sought to end Syria’s suffering in ways that may have held out the promise of a sustainable resolution of the conflict is compounded by the failure to exploit what was always a fragile alliance between Russia and NATO-member Turkey.

With that alliance under strain, both in Syria, where Russia has warned that it cannot guarantee the safety of Turkish aircraft in Syrian airspace, and in Libya, where the two allies support opposing sides, multiple regional conflicts have begun to mesh.

Some analysts have suggested that Russia was seeking to enlist the support of Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates in Syria so that it could dump Turkey with which it is on the brink of military blows. The two Gulf states oppose Turkish ambitions in the Middle East and beyond.

The analysts point to recent contacts between Emirati, Russian and Syrian officials and the establishment of relations between Syria and Libya’s UAE and Russian-backed rebel force led by renegade commander Khalifa Haftar.

The various manoeuvres constitute variations on a theme.

The international community, including Russia, did little in the early years of the war to stop militant groups and regional powers from contributing to the violence by exploiting Syria’s power vacuum to their immediate advantage. That changed selectively when the Islamic State gained a territorial foothold in Syria and Iraq.

Similarly, much of the international community falsely assumed that a Syrian victory in Idlib, Syria’s last rebel stronghold, would create a fait accompli that Turkey would accept and that would pave the way to an end to the war and reconstruction.

Like in much of the Middle East where a failure to put one’s ears to the ground and hear the widespread discontent simmering at the surface that produced a decade of revolution and brutal counterrevolution, neither Russia nor its detractors read the writing on Syria’s walls.

If militants and external powers turned what started in 2011 as peaceful protests demanding reform rather than the overthrow of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, the international community failed to recognise that nine years later criticism of the regime is widespread among an impoverished population traumatised by war.

Rather than creating an environment for reconciliation and reconstruction, Russian-supported Syrian military successes in retaking territory from rebels by force or in negotiated handovers have not been accompanied by a relieving of economic and social hardship, sparking intermittent anti-government protests and stepped up repression.

Much of the criticism focuses on the government’s failure to improve economic and living conditions, but like in the early days of the popular revolt, shies away from calls for regime change.

The improbability of a Russian-Syrian military victory putting Syria on a road towards peaceful resolution and recovery is highlighted by the fact that snap polling suggests that less than ten per cent of the millions of Syrian refugees and internally displaced persons would be willing to return to or remain in a country that continues to be ruled by Al-Assad and his regime.

As a result, Russia and Al-Assad appear to have adopted the kind of scorched earth policy that Israel’s military rejected in the late 1980s during the first Palestinian intifada or uprising.

In contrast to the military that told then Israeli prime minister Yitzhak Rabin that the resolution needed to be political because the cost of a military solution would be too high, Russia and Al-Assad have concluded that no cost is too high. It is an approach that emulates Russia’s brutal crushing of rebellions in Chechnya in the 1990s.

“Russia realised that it cannot cement its military victories into permanent political gains through diplomacy within the projected remaining lifetime of the regime. Instead, it decided to employ the ‘Grozny doctrine’ of complete annihilation of all those who stand in the way of its strategic goals and bring the conflict to an end before the regime collapses,” said Syrian activist Labib al-Nahhas De La Ossa, referring to the Chechen capital that was virtually destroyed by Russian forces.

It's an approach that in violation of international law takes no heed of the consequences for innocent millions in Idlib or the fact that many, rather than supporting Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), an erstwhile Al-Qaeda affiliate that controls part of the province, have repeatedly protested against it.

It's also an approach that potentially could spark a renewed refugee crisis in Europe with Turkey, already home to some four million refugees, no longer stopping fleeing Syrians and others from trying to cross its Greek and Bulgarian borders with the European Union.

Russia, in a cynical twist of irony, would likely be happy to see a repeat of the 2015 refugee crisis that fuelled support for far-right, anti-immigration and nativist forces in Europe who are empathetic to Moscow’s effort to weaken the trans-Atlantic alliance as well as the European Union with its adherence to Western values of democracy, human rights and the rule of law.

Even with that being the case, Russian policy towards Idlib and the rest of Syria is likely to only produce problematic outcomes: ensuring total victory for Al-Assad risks a break-up with Turkey, a key regional player, and forecloses chances for a sustainable resolution of the Syrian conflict that would allow for the voluntary return of refugees and displaced persons.

Continued Russian and Iranian-backed support for Al-Assad’s brutal regime will at best temporarily stabilise Syria and potentially open the door to a forced return of some refugees and displaced persons while setting the stage for another round of conflict.

An equally unsustainable alternative scenario, envisioned by De La Ossa, would involve a Russian-Turkish agreement to cram three million refugees into a tiny slice of Idlib in what would amount to sub-human conditions.

Said De La Ossa: “The humanitarian catastrophe that is Idlib has shown that the lessons from the beginning of World War II still apply: Appeasing dictators who are willing to kill massive numbers of people to realise their delusions of grandeur never works. But if the US, Europe, and the international community at large fail to heed these lessons, it will not only be Syrians who pay the price. “ 
 
(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)&nbsp;

As tens of thousands of refugees shiver in the cold on Turkey’s borders with Europe and a new phase of the brutal Syrian war erupts - Russia, Turkey, the European Union (EU) and the international community are being presented with the bill for a flawed, short-term approach to the nine-year-old conflict that largely lacked empathy for millions of victims and was likely to magnify rather than resolve problems.

As tens of thousands of refugees shiver in the cold on Turkey’s borders with Europe and a new phase of the brutal Syrian war erupts - Russia, Turkey, the European Union (EU) and the international community are being presented with the bill for a flawed, short-term approach to the nine-year-old conflict that largely lacked empathy for millions of victims and was likely to magnify rather than resolve problems. The failure of Western policymakers to adopt an approach that would have served Europe’s longer-term security interests and sought to end Syria’s suffering in ways that may have held out the promise of a sustainable resolution of the conflict is compounded by the failure to exploit what was always a fragile alliance between Russia and NATO-member Turkey. With that alliance under strain, both in Syria, where Russia has warned that it cannot guarantee the safety of Turkish aircraft in Syrian airspace, and in Libya, where the two allies support opposing sides, multiple regional conflicts have begun to mesh. Some analysts have suggested that Russia was seeking to enlist the support of Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates in Syria so that it could dump Turkey with which it is on the brink of military blows. The two Gulf states oppose Turkish ambitions in the Middle East and beyond. The analysts point to recent contacts between Emirati, Russian and Syrian officials and the establishment of relations between Syria and Libya’s UAE and Russian-backed rebel force led by renegade commander Khalifa Haftar. The various manoeuvres constitute variations on a theme. The international community, including Russia, did little in the early years of the war to stop militant groups and regional powers from contributing to the violence by exploiting Syria’s power vacuum to their immediate advantage. That changed selectively when the Islamic State gained a territorial foothold in Syria and Iraq. Similarly, much of the international community falsely assumed that a Syrian victory in Idlib, Syria’s last rebel stronghold, would create a fait accompli that Turkey would accept and that would pave the way to an end to the war and reconstruction. Like in much of the Middle East where a failure to put one’s ears to the ground and hear the widespread discontent simmering at the surface that produced a decade of revolution and brutal counterrevolution, neither Russia nor its detractors read the writing on Syria’s walls. If militants and external powers turned what started in 2011 as peaceful protests demanding reform rather than the overthrow of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, the international community failed to recognise that nine years later criticism of the regime is widespread among an impoverished population traumatised by war. Rather than creating an environment for reconciliation and reconstruction, Russian-supported Syrian military successes in retaking territory from rebels by force or in negotiated handovers have not been accompanied by a relieving of economic and social hardship, sparking intermittent anti-government protests and stepped up repression. Much of the criticism focuses on the government’s failure to improve economic and living conditions, but like in the early days of the popular revolt, shies away from calls for regime change. The improbability of a Russian-Syrian military victory putting Syria on a road towards peaceful resolution and recovery is highlighted by the fact that snap polling suggests that less than ten per cent of the millions of Syrian refugees and internally displaced persons would be willing to return to or remain in a country that continues to be ruled by Al-Assad and his regime. As a result, Russia and Al-Assad appear to have adopted the kind of scorched earth policy that Israel’s military rejected in the late 1980s during the first Palestinian intifada or uprising. In contrast to the military that told then Israeli prime minister Yitzhak Rabin that the resolution needed to be political because the cost of a military solution would be too high, Russia and Al-Assad have concluded that no cost is too high. It is an approach that emulates Russia’s brutal crushing of rebellions in Chechnya in the 1990s. “Russia realised that it cannot cement its military victories into permanent political gains through diplomacy within the projected remaining lifetime of the regime. Instead, it decided to employ the ‘Grozny doctrine’ of complete annihilation of all those who stand in the way of its strategic goals and bring the conflict to an end before the regime collapses,” said Syrian activist Labib al-Nahhas De La Ossa, referring to the Chechen capital that was virtually destroyed by Russian forces. It's an approach that in violation of international law takes no heed of the consequences for innocent millions in Idlib or the fact that many, rather than supporting Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), an erstwhile Al-Qaeda affiliate that controls part of the province, have repeatedly protested against it. It's also an approach that potentially could spark a renewed refugee crisis in Europe with Turkey, already home to some four million refugees, no longer stopping fleeing Syrians and others from trying to cross its Greek and Bulgarian borders with the European Union. Russia, in a cynical twist of irony, would likely be happy to see a repeat of the 2015 refugee crisis that fuelled support for far-right, anti-immigration and nativist forces in Europe who are empathetic to Moscow’s effort to weaken the trans-Atlantic alliance as well as the European Union with its adherence to Western values of democracy, human rights and the rule of law. Even with that being the case, Russian policy towards Idlib and the rest of Syria is likely to only produce problematic outcomes: ensuring total victory for Al-Assad risks a break-up with Turkey, a key regional player, and forecloses chances for a sustainable resolution of the Syrian conflict that would allow for the voluntary return of refugees and displaced persons. Continued Russian and Iranian-backed support for Al-Assad’s brutal regime will at best temporarily stabilise Syria and potentially open the door to a forced return of some refugees and displaced persons while setting the stage for another round of conflict. An equally unsustainable alternative scenario, envisioned by De La Ossa, would involve a Russian-Turkish agreement to cram three million refugees into a tiny slice of Idlib in what would amount to sub-human conditions. Said De La Ossa: “The humanitarian catastrophe that is Idlib has shown that the lessons from the beginning of World War II still apply: Appeasing dictators who are willing to kill massive numbers of people to realise their delusions of grandeur never works. But if the US, Europe, and the international community at large fail to heed these lessons, it will not only be Syrians who pay the price. “ (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

War threatens to spill beyond Syria’s borders

The CIA has revealed the model of a safe house that was used for briefing US President Joe Biden about the whereabouts of Al-Qaeda leader Ayman Al-Zawahiri before he was killed in a drone strike in Afghanistan.

CIA unveils model of Al-Qaeda chief's hideout, contents of the box on display

Jumping to its own defence, Pakistan denied claims that the US used its airspace to kill al-Qaeda chief Ayman al-Zawahiri.

It comes after Afghanistan’s acting defence minister Mullah Yaqoub accused Pakistan of helping the US kill Zawahiri.

Pakistan's foreign office said in a statement, “In the absence of any evidence, as acknowledged by the Afghan minister himself, such conjectural allegations are highly regrettable and defy the norms of responsible diplomatic conduct.”

During a press conference along with the Chief of Staff of the Taliban’s military forces, Yaqoub said the use of Pakistan airspace in July to kill the former al-Qaeda leader was a transgression of the country’s borders.

Zawahiri was killed in a drone strike on July 31 by the Central Intelligence Agency of the US which ensured minimal collateral damage to the surrounding people and areas.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/reports-of-heavy-drone-activity-in-parts-of-afghanistan-510430" hreflang="en">Reports of heavy drone activity in parts of Afghanistan. What does it mean?</a>

Since Islamabad has become an unofficial mouthpiece of the Taliban government abroad, officials in Afghanistan have become displeased with the Pakistani political establishment.

The two neighbouring countries are trying to broker a lasting peace deal between the two factions of the Taliban.

Creating panic among the region's residents, the Pakistani Taliban has reappeared in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Swat valley.

As a result, local trade and tourism have been adversely affected and the ceasefire deal has collapsed.

Following the emergence of differences between the Pakistan Taliban and the army, the former has demanded that the latter should overturn the merger of the erstwhile Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA) with the Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa province.

There has also been a stalemate over the issue of TTP laying down arms in case of a peace deal, despite a series of meetings between the two sides in recent weeks to break the impasse.

(With inputs from agencies)

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&nbsp;

Jumping to its own defence, Pakistan denied claims that the US used its airspace to kill al-Qaeda chief Ayman al-Zawahiri. It comes after Afghanistan’s acting defence minister Mullah Yaqoub accused Pakistan of helping the US kill Zawahiri.

Jumping to its own defence, Pakistan denied claims that the US used its airspace to kill al-Qaeda chief Ayman al-Zawahiri. It comes after Afghanistan’s acting defence minister Mullah Yaqoub accused Pakistan of helping the US kill Zawahiri. Pakistan's foreign office said in a statement, “In the absence of any evidence, as acknowledged by the Afghan minister himself, such conjectural allegations are highly regrettable and defy the norms of responsible diplomatic conduct.” During a press conference along with the Chief of Staff of the Taliban’s military forces, Yaqoub said the use of Pakistan airspace in July to kill the former al-Qaeda leader was a transgression of the country’s borders. Zawahiri was killed in a drone strike on July 31 by the Central Intelligence Agency of the US which ensured minimal collateral damage to the surrounding people and areas. Also read | Reports of heavy drone activity in parts of Afghanistan. What does it mean? Since Islamabad has become an unofficial mouthpiece of the Taliban government abroad, officials in Afghanistan have become displeased with the Pakistani political establishment. The two neighbouring countries are trying to broker a lasting peace deal between the two factions of the Taliban. Creating panic among the region's residents, the Pakistani Taliban has reappeared in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Swat valley. As a result, local trade and tourism have been adversely affected and the ceasefire deal has collapsed. Following the emergence of differences between the Pakistan Taliban and the army, the former has demanded that the latter should overturn the merger of the erstwhile Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA) with the Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa province. There has also been a stalemate over the issue of TTP laying down arms in case of a peace deal, despite a series of meetings between the two sides in recent weeks to break the impasse. (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION's live TV here: ×

'Conjectural allegations': Pakistan denies claims that US used its airspace to kill al-Qaeda leader

The United States President Joe Biden said on Monday (August 1) that Al-Qaeda leader Ayman al-Zawahiri was killed in a drone strike in Kabul, Afghanistan. The killing of al-Zawahiri is said to be the biggest blow to the militant group since its founder Osama bin Laden was killed in 2011.

The United States President Joe Biden said on Monday (August 1) that Al-Qaeda leader Ayman al-Zawahiri was killed in a drone strike in Kabul, Afghanistan. The killing of al-Zawahiri is said to be the biggest blow to the militant group since its founder Osama bin Laden was killed in 2011. However, there are several claims and counterclaims over the entire operation. On being asked about proof, a White House spokesman on Tuesday said that the US has no DNA confirmation of the death of Zawahiri. The spokesman said that his identity was verified through other sources. ALSO READ | After Ayman al-Zawahiri, this man is touted to helm Al-Qaeda Meanwhile, the Taliban said Thursday that they do not have any information regarding Zawahiri's presence in Afghanistan. "The Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan has no information about Ayman al-Zawahiri's arrival and stay. The leadership of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan has instructed the intelligence agencies to hold a comprehensive and serious investigation," the Taliban said in a statement. The house where Zawahiri was residing is located in the Sherpur neighbourhood of the Afghan capital. A Hellfire missile strike from a drone killed the Al-Qaeda chief. In his address, Biden said that Zawahiri was on the balcony when the strike took place. To get more details, WION became the first to reach the exact location where Ayman Al-Zawahiri was said to have been killed. Visuals of the Kabul home show no signs of an explosion. ALSO READ | Who is Ayman al-Zawahiri, the Al-Qaeda chief killed by US strike? WION first to reach the exact location where Al-Qaeda Chief #AymanZawahiri was killed in US drone strike on August 1, 2022 pic.twitter.com/khAGbxWtzT — WION (@WIONews) August 4, 2022 × Pictures from #AymanZawahiri's Kabul home show no signs of explosion Confirmed death by other sources: White House Will verify veracity of US claims: Taliban@MollyGambhir brings you this report by @AnasMallick Watch more: https://t.co/AXC5qRuO3J pic.twitter.com/Q2eqONnRPe — WION (@WIONews) August 4, 2022 × 'Violation of the Doha agreement' The presence of Zawahiri in Afghanistan was a clear violation of the Doha agreement signed in 2020, Washington said. The agreement paved the way for the withdrawal of foreign forces from Afghanistan a year ago. In response, the Taliban said that the US had breached the accord. "The fact that America invaded our territory and violated all international principles, we strongly condemn the action once again. If such action is repeated, the responsibility of any consequences will be on the United States of America," the statement said. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

WION reaches Kabul ‘safehouse’ where al-Qaeda chief Ayman al-Zawahiri was ‘killed’ in drone strike

Heavy drone activities in some parts of Afghanistan have been reported in the past few days. As per reports, the increased drone activity suggests that the United States is stepping up efforts to target Al-Qaeda or ISIS-K. However, there's no official confirmation whether or not the US is striking (or planning to strike) any terror outfit.&nbsp;

Locals in Helmand and Kandahar provinces of Afghanistan&nbsp;have reported heavy drone activities in the last few days, a prominent Afghan journo and war observer Bilal Sarwary wrote on his verified Twitter handle on Wednesday (August 25) based on sources.&nbsp;

Sarwary said, "A drone strike targeted camp bastion in Helmand around 5AM. AQIS and AQ members Abu Zubair, Abu Anas, Farooqi Qari Sulaiman and Abu Al Hassan have been present in various parts of Helmand province, including inside camp bastion."&nbsp;He mentioned that two sources, including a CT source, told him.

Some other observers, with expertise in the matter related to Afghanistan and Taliban, have also noticed increased drone activity lately which appears to be by the Western coalition.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-say-theyve-not-found-body-of-al-qaeda-leader-ayman-al-zawahiri-510132">Taliban say they've not found body of Al Qaeda leader Ayman al-Zawahiri</a>&nbsp;

Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AFG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AFG</a> “ A drone strike targeted camp bastion in Helmand around 5AM. AQIS and AQ members Abu Zubair ,Abu Anas, Farooqi Qari Sulaiman and Abu Al Hassan have been present in various parts of Helmand province including inside camp bastion.” Two sources including a CT source tells me.
— BILAL SARWARY (@bsarwary) <a href="https://twitter.com/bsarwary/status/1562520967267508224?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 24, 2022</a></blockquote>
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More AlQaeda members targeted by drones in former US/U.K. base in Helmand. The base is used by the Taliban Dictatorship. 
 
The Taliban are turning Afghanistan into a terrorist training camp. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Afghanistan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Afghanistan</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Taliban?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Taliban</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FreeAfghanistan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FreeAfghanistan</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SupportNRF?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SupportNRF</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Panjshir?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Panjshir</a> <a href="https://t.co/yFVtKttLYY">https://t.co/yFVtKttLYY</a>
— Herbert Elizabeth (@OzymandiusUK) <a href="https://twitter.com/OzymandiusUK/status/1562542413326929922?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 24, 2022</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-declares-national-emergency-after-floods-kill-more-than-900-people-510244">Pakistan declares national emergency after floods kill more than 900 people, seeks aid</a>&nbsp;

This development comes after US President Joe Biden said on August 1 that Al-Qaeda leader Ayman al-Zawahiri was killed in a drone strike in Kabul. The alleged killing of al-Zawahiri was touted to be the biggest blow to the militant group since its founder Osama bin Laden was killed in 2011.

Despite Biden's claims, there are several claims and counterclaims over the entire operation. On Thursday (August 25), the Taliban announced that they had not located Zawahiri's body and that they were still conducting investigations.

On the other hand, a White House spokesman had said after the strike that the US has no DNA confirmation of the death of Zawahiri. The spokesman had stated that his identity was verified through other sources.

'Violation of the Doha agreement'

When Pentagon said it killed Zawahiri, the authorities also mentioned that his presence in Afghanistan was a clear violation of the Doha agreement signed in 2020, which chalked out the withdrawal of foreign forces from Afghanistan a year ago.&nbsp;

But the Taliban had said that the US had breached the accord. "The fact that America invaded our territory and violated all international principles, we strongly condemn the action once again. If such action is repeated, the responsibility of any consequences will be on the United States of America," the Taliban statement said.&nbsp;

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Heavy drone activities in some parts of Afghanistan have been reported in the past few days. As per reports, the increased drone activity suggests that the United States is stepping up efforts to target Al-Qaeda or ISIS-K.

Heavy drone activities in some parts of Afghanistan have been reported in the past few days. As per reports, the increased drone activity suggests that the United States is stepping up efforts to target Al-Qaeda or ISIS-K. However, there's no official confirmation whether or not the US is striking (or planning to strike) any terror outfit. Locals in Helmand and Kandahar provinces of Afghanistan have reported heavy drone activities in the last few days, a prominent Afghan journo and war observer Bilal Sarwary wrote on his verified Twitter handle on Wednesday (August 25) based on sources. Sarwary said, "A drone strike targeted camp bastion in Helmand around 5AM. AQIS and AQ members Abu Zubair, Abu Anas, Farooqi Qari Sulaiman and Abu Al Hassan have been present in various parts of Helmand province, including inside camp bastion." He mentioned that two sources, including a CT source, told him. Some other observers, with expertise in the matter related to Afghanistan and Taliban, have also noticed increased drone activity lately which appears to be by the Western coalition. ALSO READ | Taliban say they've not found body of Al Qaeda leader Ayman al-Zawahiri Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media. #AFG “ A drone strike targeted camp bastion in Helmand around 5AM. AQIS and AQ members Abu Zubair ,Abu Anas, Farooqi Qari Sulaiman and Abu Al Hassan have been present in various parts of Helmand province including inside camp bastion.” Two sources including a CT source tells me. — BILAL SARWARY (@bsarwary) August 24, 2022 × More AlQaeda members targeted by drones in former US/U.K. base in Helmand. The base is used by the Taliban Dictatorship. The Taliban are turning Afghanistan into a terrorist training camp. #Afghanistan #Taliban #FreeAfghanistan #SupportNRF #Panjshir https://t.co/yFVtKttLYY — Herbert Elizabeth (@OzymandiusUK) August 24, 2022 × ALSO READ | Pakistan declares national emergency after floods kill more than 900 people, seeks aid This development comes after US President Joe Biden said on August 1 that Al-Qaeda leader Ayman al-Zawahiri was killed in a drone strike in Kabul. The alleged killing of al-Zawahiri was touted to be the biggest blow to the militant group since its founder Osama bin Laden was killed in 2011. Despite Biden's claims, there are several claims and counterclaims over the entire operation. On Thursday (August 25), the Taliban announced that they had not located Zawahiri's body and that they were still conducting investigations. On the other hand, a White House spokesman had said after the strike that the US has no DNA confirmation of the death of Zawahiri. The spokesman had stated that his identity was verified through other sources. 'Violation of the Doha agreement' When Pentagon said it killed Zawahiri, the authorities also mentioned that his presence in Afghanistan was a clear violation of the Doha agreement signed in 2020, which chalked out the withdrawal of foreign forces from Afghanistan a year ago. But the Taliban had said that the US had breached the accord. "The fact that America invaded our territory and violated all international principles, we strongly condemn the action once again. If such action is repeated, the responsibility of any consequences will be on the United States of America," the Taliban statement said. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Reports of heavy drone activity in parts of Afghanistan. What does it signify?

Security forces have ended a siege by Al-Qaeda-linked militants at a hotel in Somalia’s capital in which at least 21 people were killed and dozens injured. The Al-Qaeda-linked Al-Shabab group has claimed responsibility for the attack.

Somalia Hotel Siege: At least 21 killed, Al-Shabaab group claims responsibility

WION brings you an exclusive ground report from Al-Qaeda leader Ayman al-Zawahiri's house, that was hit by US drone strike that killed al-Zawahiri in Afghanistan's capital city Kabul.

WION Dispatch: Ground report from Zawahiri's house hit by US drone strike in Kabul

WION first to reach the exact location where Al-Qaeda Chief Ayman Al-Zawahiri was killed in U.S Drone strike on August 1, 2022.

Exclusive: WION at Zawahiri's safe house

A US government aid project official named Dan Smock was surprised when he saw the images of the balcony where al-Qaeda chief and the world's most wanted terrorist Ayman al-Zawahiri was killed in a US drone attack.

A US government aid project official named Dan Smock was surprised when he saw the images of the balcony where al-Qaeda chief and the world's most wanted terrorist Ayman al-Zawahiri was killed in a US drone attack. After some moments, it struck Smock that it was the balcony of the same house where he lived when working as an aid officer in Kabul. Smock, a US military veteran, was working as a civilian in the country when staying at the cream-coloured house with green-mirrored balcony walls. Smock stated that he liked to stand in the balcony and overlook the mountains which would be visible after the Kabul morning smog had disappeared. And according to US intel inputs, al-Zawahiri too liked standing in the balcony and soaking in the view. An incredibly surreal feeling: Smock Stating that it was an incredibly surreal feeling, Smock said that he was still coming to terms with the reality that a man who plotted and executed the 9/11 attack alongside Osama bin Laden, was living in the same room that he once lived in. "Things change, and things change quickly, but at that level? That’s a little intense. You’ve got public enemy number one, with a $25m bounty on his head, literally living in the same space you lived in previously,” said Smock in an interview with The Guardian. Read more: US kills Al-Qaeda terror group chief Ayman al-Zawahiri in Afghanistan drone strike Smock also revealed that why al-Zawahiri choose to ditch his hideouts and live in a residential place. Reportedly, the house is in a quiet, closed-off neighbourhood with only two entrances. If one is able to control those entrances, the whole neighbourhood can be controlled. al-Zawahiri and his men thought that they had control on the ground. However, trouble came in the form of a drone. al-Zawahiri's death As reported by WION, on Tuesday, US President Joe Biden announced that the US military had killed bin Laden's successor Ayman al-Zawahiri in a US drone strike in the capital city of Kabul over the weekend Zawahiri, an Egyptian surgeon who had a $25 million bounty on his head was responsible for the killing of nearly 3,000 civilians who were killed in the 9/11 terror attacks organised by his terrorist outfit. Laden was considered the mastermind of the attacks and Zawahiri, who posed as his physician, helped him in the execution of his deadly plan. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

US aid worker lived in same house where al-Qaeda leader Zawahiri was killed

Al-Qaeda chief and a key 9/11 mastermind Ayman-Al Zawahiri was killed in a US drone strike on the 30th of July, ending the over 20-year long hunt. Zawahiri's assassination is the biggest blow to the Al-Qaeda since the killing of Osama Bin Laden in 2011.

Taliban yet to confirm Ayman-Al Zawahiri's death

Al-Qaeda chief Ayman al-Zawahiri was killed in a US drone strike on Kabul. Zawahiri was living in a busy Kabul neighbourhood despite the Taliban's promise to not harbour terrorists. Palki Sharma breaks down the US operation.

Gravitas: Al-Qaeda chief killed in US drone strike on Kabul

The United States has issued a worldwide alert asking its citizens to maintain a high level of vigilance when travelling abroad as al-Qaeda supporters may target American facilities, personnel or nationals in the wake of killing of Ayman al-Zawahiri.

US cautions citizens over foreign travel after Al-Zawahiri killing

Experts believe the US drone that killed Al-Qaeda chief Ayman al-Zawahiri flew through Pakistani airspace. What role did Islamabad play in this operation? What are they hoping for in return? Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: Did Pakistan help the US kill Al-Qaeda chief?

The United States has killed the leader of al-Qaeda, Ayman al-Zawahiri, in a drone strike in Afghanistan, President Joe Biden has confirmed. He was killed in a counter-terrorism operation carried out by the CIA in the Afghan capital Kabul. Zawahiri was the mastermind behind 9/11 attacks and Bin Laden's successor.

Al-Zawahiri killed in counter-terrorism operation carried out by CIA in Kabul

In&nbsp;the biggest blow to the al Qaeda terror group since its founder, Osama bin Laden was killed in 2011, his successor Ayman al-Zawahiri was killed in a US drone strike in Afghanistan over the weekend, US President Joe Biden revealed.

Bolstering&nbsp;the credibility of Washington's assurances that the United States can still address threats from Afghanistan without a military presence, the drone attack&nbsp;is the first known American&nbsp;strike inside the country since the withdrawal of its troops a year ago.

Condemning the&nbsp;strike as&nbsp;a violation of “international principles", Taliban which took over control of Afghanistan last August, said the attack went against the 2020 agreement on US troop withdrawal.

Several activists had raised concerns that&nbsp;Zawahiri, who was unwell for a long period of time, received sanctuary from the Taliban following their takeover of Kabul in August 2021.

In 2011, Zawahiri took over Al-Qaeda chief after US forces killed the terrorist group's founder Osama bin Laden at a house in a military garrison in Abottabad, near Pakistan's capital Islamabad.&nbsp;

Zawahiri, an Egyptian surgeon who had a $25 million bounty on his head, comes from a distinguished Egyptian family. His grandfather was an imam at al-Azhar University in Cairo.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-drone-strike-may-have-killed-aid-worker-children-and-not-isis-k-militants-reports-412228">Also read |&nbsp;US drone strike may have killed aid worker, children, and not ISIS-K militants: Reports</a>

Nearly 3,000 civilians were killed in the 9/11 terror attacks organised by al Qaeda, which is considered the deadliest attack on American soil.&nbsp;

Laden was considered as a mastermind of the attacks and Zawahiri, who posed as his physician, helped him in the execution of his deadly plan.

Watch |&nbsp;Al-Qaeda chief Ayman Al-Zawahiri killed in Afghanistan, 'justice has been delivered,' says Joe Biden

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Zawahiri was sent to prison for his involvement in the 1981 assassination of Egyptian President Anwar Sadat.

According to the 'Rewards for Justice' website,&nbsp;Zawahiri is believed to have plotted the&nbsp;attack on the USS Cole naval vessel in Yemen which killed 17 American sailors&nbsp;and injured more than 30 others.

For his role in the bombings of the American embassies in Kenya and Tanzania, in which 224 people were killed, he was indicted in the United States.

(With inputs from agencies)

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In the biggest blow to the al Qaeda terror group since its founder, Osama bin Laden was killed in 2011, his successor Ayman al-Zawahiri was killed in a US drone strike in Afghanistan over the weekend, US President Joe Biden revealed.

In the biggest blow to the al Qaeda terror group since its founder, Osama bin Laden was killed in 2011, his successor Ayman al-Zawahiri was killed in a US drone strike in Afghanistan over the weekend, US President Joe Biden revealed. Bolstering the credibility of Washington's assurances that the United States can still address threats from Afghanistan without a military presence, the drone attack is the first known American strike inside the country since the withdrawal of its troops a year ago. Condemning the strike as a violation of “international principles", Taliban which took over control of Afghanistan last August, said the attack went against the 2020 agreement on US troop withdrawal. Several activists had raised concerns that Zawahiri, who was unwell for a long period of time, received sanctuary from the Taliban following their takeover of Kabul in August 2021. In 2011, Zawahiri took over Al-Qaeda chief after US forces killed the terrorist group's founder Osama bin Laden at a house in a military garrison in Abottabad, near Pakistan's capital Islamabad. Zawahiri, an Egyptian surgeon who had a $25 million bounty on his head, comes from a distinguished Egyptian family. His grandfather was an imam at al-Azhar University in Cairo. Also read | US drone strike may have killed aid worker, children, and not ISIS-K militants: Reports Nearly 3,000 civilians were killed in the 9/11 terror attacks organised by al Qaeda, which is considered the deadliest attack on American soil. Laden was considered as a mastermind of the attacks and Zawahiri, who posed as his physician, helped him in the execution of his deadly plan. Watch | Al-Qaeda chief Ayman Al-Zawahiri killed in Afghanistan, 'justice has been delivered,' says Joe Biden Zawahiri was sent to prison for his involvement in the 1981 assassination of Egyptian President Anwar Sadat. According to the 'Rewards for Justice' website, Zawahiri is believed to have plotted the attack on the USS Cole naval vessel in Yemen which killed 17 American sailors and injured more than 30 others. For his role in the bombings of the American embassies in Kenya and Tanzania, in which 224 people were killed, he was indicted in the United States. (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION's live TV here: ×

US kills Al-Qaeda terror group chief Ayman al-Zawahiri in Afghanistan drone strike

President Joe Biden announced Monday that Al-Qaida chief Ayman Al-Zawahiri was killed in a U.S. drone strike in Kabul. Biden also added that killing of Al-Zawahiri is a long-sought justice.

Killing of Al-Qaida chief Al-Zawahiri is long-sought justice, says US President Biden

The United States used Pakistan airspace for the drone which killed Al-Qaeda chief Ayman al-Zawahri in the heart of the Afghanistan capital Kabul, South China Morning Post (SCMP) reported citing security analysts.&nbsp;

US President Joe Biden said on Monday (August 1) that Zawahiri was killed in a "precision" strike. His death comes as the biggest blow to the militant group since its founder Osama bin Laden was killed in 2011.&nbsp;

The report further added that Pakistan gave permission to the US to use its airspace. The security analysts also believed that Islamabad could have provided human intelligence to confirm the whereabouts of Zawahri.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-ayman-al-zawahiri-this-man-is-touted-to-helm-al-qaeda-502851">After Ayman al-Zawahiri, this man is touted to helm Al-Qaeda</a>&nbsp;

As quoted by SCMP, Abdul Basit, a research fellow at the S Rajaratnam School of International Studies in Singapore said, "The drone definitely entered Pakistani airspace over Balochistan and entered Afghanistan."&nbsp;

Basit mentioned the 2003 agreement and suggested that the operation was probably conducted on the terms of that agreement. Notably, under the 2003 agreement, Pakistan provided an air corridor for US military flights to and from Afghanistan during the time when it occupied the country.&nbsp;

As quoted, Basit said, when the United States pulled out from Afghanistan in August last year, "The 2003 agreement expired" but, "it was kept intact to keep the airspace open for the US."&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-condemn-zawahiri-killing-while-saudi-welcomes-the-move-502760" hreflang="en">Here's how world is reacting to the killing of Al-Qaeda chief Zawahiri</a>

Zawahiri succeeded bin Laden and including the deadly 9/11 attacks, he was believed to be the mastermind who steered Al-Qaeda's other operations. He was also bin Laden's personal doctor.&nbsp;

As quoted by the website, Jonathan Schroden, who is a military operations analyst, also agreed that the drone did cross Pakistani airspace.&nbsp;

While announcing the operation, Biden said that "justice had been delivered". He also added that the warning "no matter how long it takes, no matter where you hide, if you are a threat to our people, the United States will find you and take you out."&nbsp;

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The United States used Pakistan airspace for the drone which killed Al-Qaeda chief Ayman al-Zawahri in the heart of the Afghanistan capital Kabul, South China Morning Post (SCMP) reported citing security analysts.

The United States used Pakistan airspace for the drone which killed Al-Qaeda chief Ayman al-Zawahri in the heart of the Afghanistan capital Kabul, South China Morning Post (SCMP) reported citing security analysts. US President Joe Biden said on Monday (August 1) that Zawahiri was killed in a "precision" strike. His death comes as the biggest blow to the militant group since its founder Osama bin Laden was killed in 2011. The report further added that Pakistan gave permission to the US to use its airspace. The security analysts also believed that Islamabad could have provided human intelligence to confirm the whereabouts of Zawahri. ALSO READ | After Ayman al-Zawahiri, this man is touted to helm Al-Qaeda As quoted by SCMP, Abdul Basit, a research fellow at the S Rajaratnam School of International Studies in Singapore said, "The drone definitely entered Pakistani airspace over Balochistan and entered Afghanistan." Basit mentioned the 2003 agreement and suggested that the operation was probably conducted on the terms of that agreement. Notably, under the 2003 agreement, Pakistan provided an air corridor for US military flights to and from Afghanistan during the time when it occupied the country. As quoted, Basit said, when the United States pulled out from Afghanistan in August last year, "The 2003 agreement expired" but, "it was kept intact to keep the airspace open for the US." ALSO READ | Here's how world is reacting to the killing of Al-Qaeda chief Zawahiri Zawahiri succeeded bin Laden and including the deadly 9/11 attacks, he was believed to be the mastermind who steered Al-Qaeda's other operations. He was also bin Laden's personal doctor. As quoted by the website, Jonathan Schroden, who is a military operations analyst, also agreed that the drone did cross Pakistani airspace. While announcing the operation, Biden said that "justice had been delivered". He also added that the warning "no matter how long it takes, no matter where you hide, if you are a threat to our people, the United States will find you and take you out." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

US used Pakistan airspace to carry out drone strike that killed Al-Qaeda chief Ayman al-Zawahri: Report

In a huge blow to the Al-Qaeda group since its founder Osama bin Laden was killed in 2011, United States has now confirmed that they have killed Al-Qaeda leader and Bin Laden's successor Ayman Al-Zawahiri.

Ayman Al-Zawahiri: 9/11 mastermind and Osama bin Laden's successor killed in US Drone Strike

US President Joe Biden said that "justice has been delivered" after al Qaeda leader Ayman al-Zawahiri was killed in a CIA drone strike in Afghanistan. Zawahiri was the mastermind behind 9/11 attacks and Bin Laden's successor.

"Justice has been delivered", says Biden after US drone strike in Afghanistan kills AL-Zawahiri

The United States has killed the leader of al-Qaeda, Ayman al-Zawahiri, in a drone strike in Afghanistan, President Joe Biden has confirmed. Zawahiri was the mastermind behind 9/11 attacks and Bin Laden's successor. He was killed in a counter-terrorism operation carried out by the CIA in the Afghan capital Kabul.

9/11 mastermind and Bin Laden successor Al-Zawahiri killed in US drone strike

In the aftermath of the remarks perceived by a section of the particular religion as unsavory, a controversy has kicked up a diplomatic storm by several Islamic countries including Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Malaysia, Iran, Pakistan and others criticizing the Government of India and calling for stringent action against the BJP leaders who were accused of insulting a top leader of a faith at a TV show. &nbsp;Meanwhile, the Government has taken a strong view of the statements issued by the 57 members strong Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC). &nbsp;Reacting to such an acerbic statement by the OIC, the Indian External Affairs Ministry has directed its Heads of Missions (HOMs) in these countries clarifying that the Indian government respected all the religions and the comments denigrating a religious personality, did not represent the government or the ruling BJP. &nbsp;Also, the government has already initiated appropriate action against those who made the uncharitable comments and the BJP as a political party, has also taken tough measures against the defaulters. 
&nbsp; &nbsp; 
Significantly, the HoMs have also been sensitized that vested quarters are against the prevailing cordial bilateral relations and are unnecessarily provoking and inciting to dent the already existing harmonious relations. &nbsp;Here, Pakistan has also come to notice for pursuing the issue to the hilt using the OIC for targeting India to show the latter in a dim light. &nbsp;While the damage control exercise on part of India is vigorously on, the terrorist outfit Al Qaeda in the Indian Subcontinent (AQIS) has threatened that it will carry out attacks in India in the backdrop of the controversial statements on the Islamic leader made by two leaders of the BJP. &nbsp;A statement purportedly issued by the AQIS has called for attacks in Delhi, Mumbai, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh and other places. &nbsp;Arising from the dormant state for quite some time, it would appear that this terrorist outfit wants to shake off its inertia and strike to remain in the thick of news or at least make some noise to draw international attention.

It may be reiterated that Al-Qaeda in the Indian Subcontinent has issued a threat that it will carry out attacks in India against the reaction on the controversial statements made by two BJP leaders to galvanize Islamic public opinion. &nbsp;A statement believed to have been issued by the AQIS, has called for attacks in several important places in India. &nbsp;The AQIS has drawn notice to the comments on their leader and his family members and threatened menacingly that it will eliminate those who have insulted him and other figures that it considers holy.

Amidst these fast-growing developments aimed at exhibiting India in a negative perspective, it becomes imperative to step up vigil against those elements within the country who are possibly drawing their traction from the extraneous forces operating from outside and trying to radicalize a section of the vulnerable lot. Such a design, albeit by a miniscule number of people, are less impactful, yet the religious fervors in its extremity has the potential to inflict damage to peace and order. &nbsp;Hence, all the concerned agencies must pool in all its resources to thwart any plans of Al Qaeda to carry out any terrorist activity in the country. &nbsp;

The latest Al Qaeda threat in the wake of recent remarks made allegedly against a religious supreme leader, may be seen a veiled or even as an empty warning, yet it should be taken very seriously. &nbsp;We are seeing regular encounters against the terrorists coming from across the borders abetting violet activity in Kashmir targeting non-locals creating a sense of fear and insecurity. &nbsp; Such elements must be identified at the earliest and preventive action taken on time to maintain tranquil and peace. &nbsp;Because of high voltage of vigil being maintained by the Indian security agencies, these forces have been kept under check. &nbsp;However, the latest happenings may provide ammunition to the miscreants to cause disturbances. &nbsp;Intelligence agencies, in particular, need to up their antenna to garner preventive intelligence and effectively neutralize all those target Indian interests infrastructurally and diplomatically. &nbsp;Mandarins of the South Block need to work overtime for diplomatic offensive combined with caution and precision to ensure India’s image abroad is kept intact and the security within is also fool proof.

(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

In the aftermath of the remarks perceived by a section of the particular religion as unsavory, a controversy has kicked up a diplomatic storm by several Islamic countries including Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Malaysia, Iran, Pakistan and others criticizing the Government of India and calling for stringent action against the BJP leaders who were accused of insulting a top leader of a faith at a TV show.

In the aftermath of the remarks perceived by a section of the particular religion as unsavory, a controversy has kicked up a diplomatic storm by several Islamic countries including Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Malaysia, Iran, Pakistan and others criticizing the Government of India and calling for stringent action against the BJP leaders who were accused of insulting a top leader of a faith at a TV show. Meanwhile, the Government has taken a strong view of the statements issued by the 57 members strong Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC). Reacting to such an acerbic statement by the OIC, the Indian External Affairs Ministry has directed its Heads of Missions (HOMs) in these countries clarifying that the Indian government respected all the religions and the comments denigrating a religious personality, did not represent the government or the ruling BJP. Also, the government has already initiated appropriate action against those who made the uncharitable comments and the BJP as a political party, has also taken tough measures against the defaulters. Significantly, the HoMs have also been sensitized that vested quarters are against the prevailing cordial bilateral relations and are unnecessarily provoking and inciting to dent the already existing harmonious relations. Here, Pakistan has also come to notice for pursuing the issue to the hilt using the OIC for targeting India to show the latter in a dim light. While the damage control exercise on part of India is vigorously on, the terrorist outfit Al Qaeda in the Indian Subcontinent (AQIS) has threatened that it will carry out attacks in India in the backdrop of the controversial statements on the Islamic leader made by two leaders of the BJP. A statement purportedly issued by the AQIS has called for attacks in Delhi, Mumbai, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh and other places. Arising from the dormant state for quite some time, it would appear that this terrorist outfit wants to shake off its inertia and strike to remain in the thick of news or at least make some noise to draw international attention. It may be reiterated that Al-Qaeda in the Indian Subcontinent has issued a threat that it will carry out attacks in India against the reaction on the controversial statements made by two BJP leaders to galvanize Islamic public opinion. A statement believed to have been issued by the AQIS, has called for attacks in several important places in India. The AQIS has drawn notice to the comments on their leader and his family members and threatened menacingly that it will eliminate those who have insulted him and other figures that it considers holy. Amidst these fast-growing developments aimed at exhibiting India in a negative perspective, it becomes imperative to step up vigil against those elements within the country who are possibly drawing their traction from the extraneous forces operating from outside and trying to radicalize a section of the vulnerable lot. Such a design, albeit by a miniscule number of people, are less impactful, yet the religious fervors in its extremity has the potential to inflict damage to peace and order. Hence, all the concerned agencies must pool in all its resources to thwart any plans of Al Qaeda to carry out any terrorist activity in the country. The latest Al Qaeda threat in the wake of recent remarks made allegedly against a religious supreme leader, may be seen a veiled or even as an empty warning, yet it should be taken very seriously. We are seeing regular encounters against the terrorists coming from across the borders abetting violet activity in Kashmir targeting non-locals creating a sense of fear and insecurity. Such elements must be identified at the earliest and preventive action taken on time to maintain tranquil and peace. Because of high voltage of vigil being maintained by the Indian security agencies, these forces have been kept under check. However, the latest happenings may provide ammunition to the miscreants to cause disturbances. Intelligence agencies, in particular, need to up their antenna to garner preventive intelligence and effectively neutralize all those target Indian interests infrastructurally and diplomatically. Mandarins of the South Block need to work overtime for diplomatic offensive combined with caution and precision to ensure India’s image abroad is kept intact and the security within is also fool proof. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

Recent Al-Qaeda threats and possible way out

Al-Qaeda in the Indian Subcontinent (AQIS) outfit has threatened to carry out terror attacks in the Indian states of Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, Mumbai and Delhi in the wake of controversial remarks made by members of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

In a threat letter dated June 6, the AQIS said it would launch suicide attacks to “fight for the honour of the Prophet”.

“A few days ago, the propagators and flag bearers of Hindutva – a system and philosophy hostile to the religion and Shariah of Allah – insulted and slandered the purest of beings, the most honourable after God himself, Muhammad al Mustafa, Ahmad al Mujtaba, and his noble and pure wife, the mother of the believers, Sayyidah Ayesha bint Abu Bakr as Siddeeq in the most vile and evil manner on an Indian TV channel. In response to this affront, the hearts of Muslim all over the world are bleeding and are filled with feelings of revenge and retribution,” the letter says.

“We warn every audacious and impudent foul mouth of the world, especially the Hindutva terrorists occupying Indian that we should fight for the dignity of our Prophet, we should urge others to fight and die for the honour of our Prophet, we should kill those who affront our Prophet and we should bind explosives with our bodies and the bodies of our children to blow away the ranks of those who dare to dishonour our Prophet,” it says.

“The saffron terrorists should now await their end in Delhi, Bombay, UP and Gujarat. They should find refuge neither in their homes nor in their fortified army cantonments,” the letter states.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-reacts-on-prophet-muhammad-remarks-of-ruling-party-spokesperson-485894" hreflang="en">India reacts on Prophet Muhammad remarks of ruling party spokesperson</a>

AQIS is the newest affiliate of al-Qaeda and was reportedly launched in 2014.&nbsp;

The group is believed to have members in India, Pakistan, Bangladesh&nbsp;and Myanmar, and has carried out attacks against atheists and doctors.&nbsp;

India has been facing backlash from West Asian countries, and nations with majority Muslim community over controversial comments made by BJP members Nupur Sharma and media in-charge Naveen Jindal over remarks on Prophet Mohammed.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/remarks-over-prophet-muhammad-result-in-diplomatic-row-between-india-and-gulf-countries-485737" hreflang="en">Prophet Muhammad remark results in diplomatic row between India &amp; Gulf states</a>

While Sharma has been suspended and asked for an explanation, Jindal has been expelled from the party.

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Al-Qaeda in the Indian Subcontinent (AQIS) outfit has threatened to carry out terror attacks in the Indian states of Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, Mumbai and Delhi in the wake of controversial remarks made by members of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

Al-Qaeda in the Indian Subcontinent (AQIS) outfit has threatened to carry out terror attacks in the Indian states of Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, Mumbai and Delhi in the wake of controversial remarks made by members of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). In a threat letter dated June 6, the AQIS said it would launch suicide attacks to “fight for the honour of the Prophet”. “A few days ago, the propagators and flag bearers of Hindutva – a system and philosophy hostile to the religion and Shariah of Allah – insulted and slandered the purest of beings, the most honourable after God himself, Muhammad al Mustafa, Ahmad al Mujtaba, and his noble and pure wife, the mother of the believers, Sayyidah Ayesha bint Abu Bakr as Siddeeq in the most vile and evil manner on an Indian TV channel. In response to this affront, the hearts of Muslim all over the world are bleeding and are filled with feelings of revenge and retribution,” the letter says. “We warn every audacious and impudent foul mouth of the world, especially the Hindutva terrorists occupying Indian that we should fight for the dignity of our Prophet, we should urge others to fight and die for the honour of our Prophet, we should kill those who affront our Prophet and we should bind explosives with our bodies and the bodies of our children to blow away the ranks of those who dare to dishonour our Prophet,” it says. “The saffron terrorists should now await their end in Delhi, Bombay, UP and Gujarat. They should find refuge neither in their homes nor in their fortified army cantonments,” the letter states. Also read | India reacts on Prophet Muhammad remarks of ruling party spokesperson AQIS is the newest affiliate of al-Qaeda and was reportedly launched in 2014. The group is believed to have members in India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Myanmar, and has carried out attacks against atheists and doctors. India has been facing backlash from West Asian countries, and nations with majority Muslim community over controversial comments made by BJP members Nupur Sharma and media in-charge Naveen Jindal over remarks on Prophet Mohammed. Also read | Prophet Muhammad remark results in diplomatic row between India & Gulf states While Sharma has been suspended and asked for an explanation, Jindal has been expelled from the party. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Al-Qaeda threatens terror attacks in Indian states over ‘insult to Prophet'

Every month, Abdow Omar, who runs a business importing flour and sugar, gets a call from the Somali militant group al-Shabab reminding him that it’s time to pay them taxes — or risk losing his business, or even his life.

After more than 16 years, al-Shabab, a terrorist group linked to al-Qaida, now has a firm grip on much of Somalia, extorting taxes, judging court cases, forcibly recruiting minors into its forces, and carrying out suicide bombings.

The country is about to get its next leader Sunday in an election that has been delayed for almost two years. No less than 38 candidates, including one woman, registered to vie and unseat the incumbent president. But many residents, observing the government’s infighting and paralysis, are asking whether a new administration will make a difference at all.

“While the government is busy with itself, we are suffering,” Omar said. “The Shabab are like a mafia group. You either have to obey them or close your business. There’s no freedom.”

Somalia, a nation of 16 million people strategically located in the Horn of Africa, has suffered for decades from civil war, weak governance, and terrorism. Its central government has been bolstered by United Nations peacekeepers and Western aid, including billions of dollars in humanitarian aid and security assistance from the United States, which sought to keep the country from becoming a safe haven for international terrorism.

Now, inflation is climbing, and food prices are sharply on the rise because of a biting drought and the loss of wheat imports from Ukraine.

The country doesn’t have a one-person, one-vote electoral system. Instead, more than 325 lawmakers, who were chosen by clan representatives, will select the next president.

The candidates, who include former presidents and prime ministers, are looking to unseat the current president, Mohamed Abdullahi Mohamed, who has served for five years. Critics accused Mohamed — a former U.S. citizen and bureaucrat — of trying to illegally stay in power, cracking down on the opposition and journalists, fomenting a rift with neighboring Kenya and undercutting the power-sharing model that buttressed the country’s federal system.

Al-Shabab exploited the political instability, and the bitter divisions among security forces, to grow its tentacles. In the weeks and months before the vote, the group killed civilians including at beachside restaurants, mounted a major offensive on an African Union base — killing at least 10 peacekeepers from Burundi — and dispatched suicide bombers to jump on the cars of government officials.

In interviews with more than two dozen Somali citizens, lawmakers, analysts, diplomats and aid workers before Sunday’s vote, many expressed concern at how the deteriorating political, security and humanitarian situation has reversed the few years of stability the nation achieved after al-Shabab was kicked out of the capital in 2011.

“These were five lost years, ones in which we lost the cohesion of the country,” said Hussein Sheikh-Ali, a former national security adviser to Mohamed and chair of the Hiraal Institute, a research center in Mogadishu.

The protracted political battles, particularly over the elections, undermined the government’s ability to deliver key services, observers say. Critics and opposition figures have accused Mohamed of trying to cling to power at all costs, exerting pressure on the electoral commission, installing leaders in regional states who would help sway the election and trying to fill the parliament with his own supporters. Last year, when he signed a law extending his rule by two years, fighting broke out in the capital’s streets, forcing him to change course.

As the election of lawmakers got underway, observers said it was rife with corruption and irregularities.

Abdi Ismail Samatar, a first time senator who is also a professor at the University of Minnesota who researches democracy in Africa, said this election could be ranked as “the worst” in Somalia’s history.

“I don’t think I could have ever imagined how corrupt and self-serving it is,” Samatar said. While no one attempted to bribe him, he said, “I saw people being given money in the election for the speakership right in front of my face in the hallway.”

Larry André Jr., the U.S. ambassador to Somalia, said that the majority of the seats had been selected by regional leaders, “sold” or “auctioned,” and the messy election had pushed the country to the “cliff’s edge.”

The United States imposed visa sanctions in both February and March on Somali officials and others accused of undermining the parliamentary elections. The parliamentary vote finally concluded in late April, producing new speakers and deputy speakers mostly aligned with groups opposed to Mohamed.

Because of the indirect nature of the vote, presidential candidates in Mogadishu aren’t shaking hands with citizens or campaigning in the streets. Instead, they are meeting with lawmakers and clan elders in glitzy hotels and compounds guarded by dozens of soldiers and blast walls. Some aspirants have put up election billboards along major roads in the capital, promising good governance, justice and peace.

But few in this seaside city believe they would make good on their pledges.

“Everyone wears a suit, carries a briefcase and promises to be as sweet as honey,” said Jamila Adan, a political science student at City University. “But we don’t believe them.”

Her friend Anisa Abdullahi, a business major, agreed, saying those running for office cannot identify with the daily tribulations facing ordinary Somalis. Security forces, she said, frequently block roads unannounced to create safe corridors for politicians, making it impossible for her and many others to get to class, do business or visit relatives.

“They never make people feel like the government comes from the people and is supposed to serve the people,” she said.

Some Somalis have now turned to al-Shabab to get services that would normally be delivered by a functioning state. Many in Mogadishu regularly travel to areas dozens of miles north of the city to get their cases heard at al-Shabab-operated mobile courts.

One of them is Ali Ahmed, a businessman from a minority tribe whose family home in Mogadishu was occupied for years by members of a powerful tribe. After he presented his case to an al-Shabab-run court, he said, two weeks later the court ruled that the occupiers should vacate his house — and they did.

“It’s sad but no one goes to the government to get justice,” he said. “Even government judges will secretly advise you to go to al-Shabab.”

Some officials admit the government’s own shortcomings. Al-Shabab has been able to widen its tax base because “elected officials were too busy politicking instead of doing policy work,” said one government official who spoke on the condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to speak to the media.

The election comes as parts of Somalia face the worst drought in four decades. Some 6 million people, or about 40% of the population, are facing extreme food shortages, according to the World Food Program, with nearly 760,000 people displaced.

Many of those impacted by the drought live in al-Shabab-controlled areas in south-central Somalia, where aid organizations are not able to reach them, crops are failing and al-Shabab demands taxes on their livestock, according to interviews with officials and displaced people. The U.N. estimates that almost 900,000 people reside in inaccessible areas administered by al-Shabab.

To find food and water, families travel hundreds of miles, sometimes on foot, to cities and towns like Mogadishu, and Doolow in the southern Gedo region. Some parents said they buried their children on the way while others left a weak child behind in order to save other offspring.

Mohammed Ali Hussein, the deputy governor of Gedo, said the lack of security prevented officials from rescuing people in al-Shabab-dominated areas even when family members pinpoint an exact location.

Dealing with the threat of al-Shabab will be among the first challenges facing Somalia’s next government, said Afyare Abdi Elmi, executive director of the Heritage Institute for Policy Studies in Mogadishu.

But the next leader, he said, needs also to deliver a new constitution, reform the economy, deal with climate change, open dialogue with the breakaway region of Somaliland and unite a polarized nation.

“Governance in Somalia became too confrontational over the past few years. It was like pulling teeth,” Elmi said. “People are now ready for a new dawn.” 
&nbsp;

Every month, Abdow Omar, who runs a business importing flour and sugar, gets a call from the Somali militant group al-Shabab reminding him that it’s time to pay them taxes — or risk losing his business, or even his life.

Every month, Abdow Omar, who runs a business importing flour and sugar, gets a call from the Somali militant group al-Shabab reminding him that it’s time to pay them taxes — or risk losing his business, or even his life. After more than 16 years, al-Shabab, a terrorist group linked to al-Qaida, now has a firm grip on much of Somalia, extorting taxes, judging court cases, forcibly recruiting minors into its forces, and carrying out suicide bombings. The country is about to get its next leader Sunday in an election that has been delayed for almost two years. No less than 38 candidates, including one woman, registered to vie and unseat the incumbent president. But many residents, observing the government’s infighting and paralysis, are asking whether a new administration will make a difference at all. “While the government is busy with itself, we are suffering,” Omar said. “The Shabab are like a mafia group. You either have to obey them or close your business. There’s no freedom.” Somalia, a nation of 16 million people strategically located in the Horn of Africa, has suffered for decades from civil war, weak governance, and terrorism. Its central government has been bolstered by United Nations peacekeepers and Western aid, including billions of dollars in humanitarian aid and security assistance from the United States, which sought to keep the country from becoming a safe haven for international terrorism. Now, inflation is climbing, and food prices are sharply on the rise because of a biting drought and the loss of wheat imports from Ukraine. The country doesn’t have a one-person, one-vote electoral system. Instead, more than 325 lawmakers, who were chosen by clan representatives, will select the next president. The candidates, who include former presidents and prime ministers, are looking to unseat the current president, Mohamed Abdullahi Mohamed, who has served for five years. Critics accused Mohamed — a former U.S. citizen and bureaucrat — of trying to illegally stay in power, cracking down on the opposition and journalists, fomenting a rift with neighboring Kenya and undercutting the power-sharing model that buttressed the country’s federal system. Al-Shabab exploited the political instability, and the bitter divisions among security forces, to grow its tentacles. In the weeks and months before the vote, the group killed civilians including at beachside restaurants, mounted a major offensive on an African Union base — killing at least 10 peacekeepers from Burundi — and dispatched suicide bombers to jump on the cars of government officials. In interviews with more than two dozen Somali citizens, lawmakers, analysts, diplomats and aid workers before Sunday’s vote, many expressed concern at how the deteriorating political, security and humanitarian situation has reversed the few years of stability the nation achieved after al-Shabab was kicked out of the capital in 2011. “These were five lost years, ones in which we lost the cohesion of the country,” said Hussein Sheikh-Ali, a former national security adviser to Mohamed and chair of the Hiraal Institute, a research center in Mogadishu. The protracted political battles, particularly over the elections, undermined the government’s ability to deliver key services, observers say. Critics and opposition figures have accused Mohamed of trying to cling to power at all costs, exerting pressure on the electoral commission, installing leaders in regional states who would help sway the election and trying to fill the parliament with his own supporters. Last year, when he signed a law extending his rule by two years, fighting broke out in the capital’s streets, forcing him to change course. As the election of lawmakers got underway, observers said it was rife with corruption and irregularities. Abdi Ismail Samatar, a first time senator who is also a professor at the University of Minnesota who researches democracy in Africa, said this election could be ranked as “the worst” in Somalia’s history. “I don’t think I could have ever imagined how corrupt and self-serving it is,” Samatar said. While no one attempted to bribe him, he said, “I saw people being given money in the election for the speakership right in front of my face in the hallway.” Larry André Jr., the U.S. ambassador to Somalia, said that the majority of the seats had been selected by regional leaders, “sold” or “auctioned,” and the messy election had pushed the country to the “cliff’s edge.” The United States imposed visa sanctions in both February and March on Somali officials and others accused of undermining the parliamentary elections. The parliamentary vote finally concluded in late April, producing new speakers and deputy speakers mostly aligned with groups opposed to Mohamed. Because of the indirect nature of the vote, presidential candidates in Mogadishu aren’t shaking hands with citizens or campaigning in the streets. Instead, they are meeting with lawmakers and clan elders in glitzy hotels and compounds guarded by dozens of soldiers and blast walls. Some aspirants have put up election billboards along major roads in the capital, promising good governance, justice and peace. But few in this seaside city believe they would make good on their pledges. “Everyone wears a suit, carries a briefcase and promises to be as sweet as honey,” said Jamila Adan, a political science student at City University. “But we don’t believe them.” Her friend Anisa Abdullahi, a business major, agreed, saying those running for office cannot identify with the daily tribulations facing ordinary Somalis. Security forces, she said, frequently block roads unannounced to create safe corridors for politicians, making it impossible for her and many others to get to class, do business or visit relatives. “They never make people feel like the government comes from the people and is supposed to serve the people,” she said. Some Somalis have now turned to al-Shabab to get services that would normally be delivered by a functioning state. Many in Mogadishu regularly travel to areas dozens of miles north of the city to get their cases heard at al-Shabab-operated mobile courts. One of them is Ali Ahmed, a businessman from a minority tribe whose family home in Mogadishu was occupied for years by members of a powerful tribe. After he presented his case to an al-Shabab-run court, he said, two weeks later the court ruled that the occupiers should vacate his house — and they did. “It’s sad but no one goes to the government to get justice,” he said. “Even government judges will secretly advise you to go to al-Shabab.” Some officials admit the government’s own shortcomings. Al-Shabab has been able to widen its tax base because “elected officials were too busy politicking instead of doing policy work,” said one government official who spoke on the condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to speak to the media. The election comes as parts of Somalia face the worst drought in four decades. Some 6 million people, or about 40% of the population, are facing extreme food shortages, according to the World Food Program, with nearly 760,000 people displaced. Many of those impacted by the drought live in al-Shabab-controlled areas in south-central Somalia, where aid organizations are not able to reach them, crops are failing and al-Shabab demands taxes on their livestock, according to interviews with officials and displaced people. The U.N. estimates that almost 900,000 people reside in inaccessible areas administered by al-Shabab. To find food and water, families travel hundreds of miles, sometimes on foot, to cities and towns like Mogadishu, and Doolow in the southern Gedo region. Some parents said they buried their children on the way while others left a weak child behind in order to save other offspring. Mohammed Ali Hussein, the deputy governor of Gedo, said the lack of security prevented officials from rescuing people in al-Shabab-dominated areas even when family members pinpoint an exact location. Dealing with the threat of al-Shabab will be among the first challenges facing Somalia’s next government, said Afyare Abdi Elmi, executive director of the Heritage Institute for Policy Studies in Mogadishu. But the next leader, he said, needs also to deliver a new constitution, reform the economy, deal with climate change, open dialogue with the breakaway region of Somaliland and unite a polarized nation. “Governance in Somalia became too confrontational over the past few years. It was like pulling teeth,” Elmi said. “People are now ready for a new dawn.”

Somalia elects next president, but terrorists hold true power

An air raid on a rebel base "neutralised" 57 "terrorists" in northern&nbsp;Mali&nbsp;where eight&nbsp;soldiers&nbsp;were also&nbsp;killed&nbsp;in fighting, the&nbsp;army&nbsp;said Saturday.

Friday's air force strike targeted a "terrorist base" and "violent clashes" led to the&nbsp;soldiers' deaths, a statement said.

The troops were targeted by "unidentified armed men" in the Archam region near the border with restive Burkina Faso and Niger, the statement said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-announces-mali-troop-pullout-after-decade-454037">France announces Mali troop pullout after decade</a>

About 40 civilians were&nbsp;killed&nbsp;this week in this zone where rival jihadist groups, including the so-called Islamic State, operate, locals told AFP.

The civilians were considered to be loyal to rival jihadist groups, according to the local sources.

Mali&nbsp;is at the epicentre of a Sahel-wide jihadist conflict, which has&nbsp;killed&nbsp;thousands of&nbsp;soldiers&nbsp;and civilians and displaced some two million people.

Watch |&nbsp;Mali asks France to expedite pulling out of troops from country

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/mali-asks-france-to-expedite-pulling-out-of-troops-from-country-454523/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Rival jihadist groups linked to al-Qaeda and Islamic State not only carry out regular attacks on national and foreign troops, but are also fighting each other for territory.

An air raid on a rebel base "neutralised" 57 "terrorists" in northern Mali where eight soldiers were also killed in fighting, the army said Saturday. Friday's air force strike targeted a "terrorist base" and "violent clashes" led to the soldiers' deaths, a statement said.

An air raid on a rebel base "neutralised" 57 "terrorists" in northern Mali where eight soldiers were also killed in fighting, the army said Saturday. Friday's air force strike targeted a "terrorist base" and "violent clashes" led to the soldiers' deaths, a statement said. The troops were targeted by "unidentified armed men" in the Archam region near the border with restive Burkina Faso and Niger, the statement said. Also read | France announces Mali troop pullout after decade About 40 civilians were killed this week in this zone where rival jihadist groups, including the so-called Islamic State, operate, locals told AFP. The civilians were considered to be loyal to rival jihadist groups, according to the local sources. Mali is at the epicentre of a Sahel-wide jihadist conflict, which has killed thousands of soldiers and civilians and displaced some two million people. Watch | Mali asks France to expedite pulling out of troops from country Rival jihadist groups linked to al-Qaeda and Islamic State not only carry out regular attacks on national and foreign troops, but are also fighting each other for territory.

Mali army says 8 soldiers killed, nearly 60 'terrorists neutralised'

Lieutenant general Michael Kurilla told the Senate Arms Services committee that the threat from the reconstituting of Al-Qaeda and ISIS-K in Afghanistan remains a big challenge.

Reconstituting of Al-Qaeda and ISIS-K in Afghanistan remains big challenge for US, says Kurilla

'Destroyer' ISIS terrorist al-Qurashi: Low-profile but brutal operator

Ever since congratulating the Taliban on its “victory” in Afghanistan on August 31 last year, al-Qaeda has been maintaining a “strategic silence” to not to “compromise” its efforts to gain international recognition, a new UN report has claimed.

The latest report of the UN Security Council on activities of the Islamic State and al-Qaeda and their affiliates, made public this week, said that Osama bin Laden’s son, Abdallah, visited Afghanistan in October “for meetings with the Taliban”.

al-Qaeda continues to recover from a series of leadership losses and lacks the capability to carry out “high-profile” attacks overseas, which remains its long-term goal, the report noted.

The UN’s sanctions monitoring team prepares such reports twice a year as part of efforts to implement sanctions imposed on the Islamic State and al-Qaeda.

It said that al-Qaeda in the Indian subcontinent (AQIS), which is led by Osama Mehmood and his deputy Atif Yahya Ghouri, “retains a presence in Afghanistan, in the provinces of Ghazni, Helmand, Kandahar, Nimruz, Paktika and Zabul, where the group fought alongside the Taliban” against the ousted government of Ashraf Ghani.

AQIS is estimated to have between 200 and 400 fighters, mainly from Afghanistan, Bangladesh, India, Myanmar and Pakistan, the report said.

The report also stated that the Taliban have not done anything to limit the activities of foreign terrorists.

“The security landscape in Afghanistan changed dramatically on 15 August, when the Taliban took control of the country. There are no recent signs that the Taliban has taken steps to limit the activities of foreign terrorist fighters in the country,” the report said.

“On the contrary, terrorist groups enjoy greater freedom there than at any time in recent history,” it said, adding that UN member states have not reported “significant new movements of foreign terrorist fighters to Afghanistan”.

However, the report concluded that the Taliban have acted to rein in the anti-China terror group Turkistan Islamic Party (TIP), also known as Eastern Turkistan Islamic Movement (ETIM).

“Some Member States reported that, following the Taliban’s return to power, ETIM/TIP fighters were relocated from their traditional stronghold in Badakhshan province, on the border with China, to Baghlan, Takhar and other provinces, as part of the Taliban’s efforts to both protect and restrain the group,” the report said.

Ever since congratulating the Taliban on its “victory” in Afghanistan on August 31 last year, al-Qaeda has been maintaining a “strategic silence” to not to “compromise” its efforts to gain international recognition, a new UN report has claimed.

Ever since congratulating the Taliban on its “victory” in Afghanistan on August 31 last year, al-Qaeda has been maintaining a “strategic silence” to not to “compromise” its efforts to gain international recognition, a new UN report has claimed. The latest report of the UN Security Council on activities of the Islamic State and al-Qaeda and their affiliates, made public this week, said that Osama bin Laden’s son, Abdallah, visited Afghanistan in October “for meetings with the Taliban”. al-Qaeda continues to recover from a series of leadership losses and lacks the capability to carry out “high-profile” attacks overseas, which remains its long-term goal, the report noted. The UN’s sanctions monitoring team prepares such reports twice a year as part of efforts to implement sanctions imposed on the Islamic State and al-Qaeda. It said that al-Qaeda in the Indian subcontinent (AQIS), which is led by Osama Mehmood and his deputy Atif Yahya Ghouri, “retains a presence in Afghanistan, in the provinces of Ghazni, Helmand, Kandahar, Nimruz, Paktika and Zabul, where the group fought alongside the Taliban” against the ousted government of Ashraf Ghani. AQIS is estimated to have between 200 and 400 fighters, mainly from Afghanistan, Bangladesh, India, Myanmar and Pakistan, the report said. The report also stated that the Taliban have not done anything to limit the activities of foreign terrorists. “The security landscape in Afghanistan changed dramatically on 15 August, when the Taliban took control of the country. There are no recent signs that the Taliban has taken steps to limit the activities of foreign terrorist fighters in the country,” the report said. “On the contrary, terrorist groups enjoy greater freedom there than at any time in recent history,” it said, adding that UN member states have not reported “significant new movements of foreign terrorist fighters to Afghanistan”. However, the report concluded that the Taliban have acted to rein in the anti-China terror group Turkistan Islamic Party (TIP), also known as Eastern Turkistan Islamic Movement (ETIM). “Some Member States reported that, following the Taliban’s return to power, ETIM/TIP fighters were relocated from their traditional stronghold in Badakhshan province, on the border with China, to Baghlan, Takhar and other provinces, as part of the Taliban’s efforts to both protect and restrain the group,” the report said.

Osama bin Laden’s son held meetings with Taliban in Afghanistan last year: UN report

Terrorist group Al-Qaeda which was responsible for the gruesome 9/11 terror attack in the US, is attempting to rebuild its presence in Taliban-controlled Afghanistan.

Terror groups Al-Qaeda & ISIS-K attempts to rebuild its presence in Taliban-controlled Afghanistan

The Niger Defence Ministry announced Sunday that 12 soldiers and "dozens of terrorists" were killed in a battle in western Niger, in the conflict-torn "three borders" zone.&nbsp;

Eight more soldiers were wounded in the clash with "hundreds of armed terrorists" five kilometres (three miles) from Fantio, the statement said. The soldiers encountered hundreds of fighters and came under heavy fire.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-69-dead-in-west-niger-jihadist-attack-426897">At least 69 dead in west Niger jihadist attack</a>&nbsp;

According to the statement, several motorbikes, used by the attackers had been destroyed and communications equipment recovered.

The soldiers "ferociously" defended themselves, killing dozens of the attackers before being overwhelmed by their numbers, said the ministry.

Finally, reinforcements from nearby positions and air support forced the enemy to retreat.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/un-urges-mali-to-end-hereditary-slavery-425038">UN urges Mali to end hereditary slavery</a>

Fantio is a small rural community located in the Tera district of the Tillaberio region that is regularly targeted by jihadist groups.

The attack is part of a broader wave of violence by groups affiliated with al Qaeda and the Islamic State that has swept across Africa's Sahel region, an arid desert region south of the Sahara Desert since 2017.

Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso have been the scene of some of the worst attacks. There have been thousands of civilian deaths and millions of displaced people in the region.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas Plus: Jihadists on the rise in West Africa

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-plus-jihadists-on-the-rise-in-west-africa-368491/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Along with attacks from jihadist groups like the Islamic State in the Greater Sahara (EIGS) in its west, Niger also faces threats from Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) in its southwest, near the border with Nigeria.

The arid Sahel state is the world's poorest country, according to the UN's Human Development Index.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Niger Defence Ministry announced Sunday that 12 soldiers and "dozens of terrorists" were killed in a battle in western Niger, in the conflict-torn "three borders" zone.

The Niger Defence Ministry announced Sunday that 12 soldiers and "dozens of terrorists" were killed in a battle in western Niger, in the conflict-torn "three borders" zone. Eight more soldiers were wounded in the clash with "hundreds of armed terrorists" five kilometres (three miles) from Fantio, the statement said. The soldiers encountered hundreds of fighters and came under heavy fire. Also read | At least 69 dead in west Niger jihadist attack According to the statement, several motorbikes, used by the attackers had been destroyed and communications equipment recovered. The soldiers "ferociously" defended themselves, killing dozens of the attackers before being overwhelmed by their numbers, said the ministry. Finally, reinforcements from nearby positions and air support forced the enemy to retreat. Also read | UN urges Mali to end hereditary slavery Fantio is a small rural community located in the Tera district of the Tillaberio region that is regularly targeted by jihadist groups. The attack is part of a broader wave of violence by groups affiliated with al Qaeda and the Islamic State that has swept across Africa's Sahel region, an arid desert region south of the Sahara Desert since 2017. Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso have been the scene of some of the worst attacks. There have been thousands of civilian deaths and millions of displaced people in the region. Watch | Gravitas Plus: Jihadists on the rise in West Africa Along with attacks from jihadist groups like the Islamic State in the Greater Sahara (EIGS) in its west, Niger also faces threats from Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) in its southwest, near the border with Nigeria. The arid Sahel state is the world's poorest country, according to the UN's Human Development Index. (With inputs from agencies)

In Niger a 'ferocious' battle with 'terrorists' leaves 12 soldiers and dozens of militants dead

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