Iran vowed on Saturday not to let an attack on one of<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explosion-sets-ablaze-iranian-oil-tanker-near-saudi-port-report-255149"> its oil tankers</a> off the coast of Saudi Arabia to go unanswered, the semi-official ISNA news agency reported.

Ali Shamkhani, secretary of the Supreme National Security Council, said clues had been uncovered as to who was behind what he called a "missile attack" on the Sabiti tanker.

"Maritime piracy and wickedness in international waterways... will not be left unanswered," he said, quoted by ISNA.

"By reviewing the available video and gathered intelligence evidence, the primary clues to the dangerous adventure of attacking the Iranian oil tanker in the Red Sea have been uncovered," he added.

Shamkhani warned of "disturbing risks" for the global economy as a result of insecurity in international waterways.

The National Iranian Tanker Company, which owns the Sabiti, said its hull was hit by two separate explosions on Friday off the Saudi port of Jeddah,

But the state-owned company denied reports the attack had originated from Saudi soil.

The attack caused oil to spill from the tanker into the Red Sea, the NITC said, before it was eventually controlled and the vessel began slowly moving back towards Gulf waters.

According to the latest data from shipping monitors Marine Traffic, the Sabiti was still in the Red Sea about 400 kilometres (250 miles) south of Jeddah.

The incident comes after a spate of still unexplained attacks on shipping in and around the vital seaway to the Gulf involving Iran and Western powers, as well as drone attacks on Saudi oil installations.

Washington accused Tehran of attacking the vessels with mines and to be behind the drone assault, something it strongly denied.

In a statement, Iran's government spokesman Ali Rabiei called Friday's attack "cowardly" and said Tehran would give a "proportionate response" following investigations.

"The question now is, those who accused Iran of disrupting free maritime transport in the Persian Gulf and the attack on Aramco installations with no proof, are they ready to once again defend the principles of free maritime transportation in international waters and condemn such an attack on an Iranian ship?" he said.

Iran vowed on Saturday not to let an attack on one of its oil tankers off the coast of Saudi Arabia to go unanswered, the semi-official ISNA news agency reported.

Iran vowed on Saturday not to let an attack on one of its oil tankers off the coast of Saudi Arabia to go unanswered, the semi-official ISNA news agency reported. Ali Shamkhani, secretary of the Supreme National Security Council, said clues had been uncovered as to who was behind what he called a "missile attack" on the Sabiti tanker. "Maritime piracy and wickedness in international waterways... will not be left unanswered," he said, quoted by ISNA. "By reviewing the available video and gathered intelligence evidence, the primary clues to the dangerous adventure of attacking the Iranian oil tanker in the Red Sea have been uncovered," he added. Shamkhani warned of "disturbing risks" for the global economy as a result of insecurity in international waterways. The National Iranian Tanker Company, which owns the Sabiti, said its hull was hit by two separate explosions on Friday off the Saudi port of Jeddah, But the state-owned company denied reports the attack had originated from Saudi soil. The attack caused oil to spill from the tanker into the Red Sea, the NITC said, before it was eventually controlled and the vessel began slowly moving back towards Gulf waters. According to the latest data from shipping monitors Marine Traffic, the Sabiti was still in the Red Sea about 400 kilometres (250 miles) south of Jeddah. The incident comes after a spate of still unexplained attacks on shipping in and around the vital seaway to the Gulf involving Iran and Western powers, as well as drone attacks on Saudi oil installations. Washington accused Tehran of attacking the vessels with mines and to be behind the drone assault, something it strongly denied. In a statement, Iran's government spokesman Ali Rabiei called Friday's attack "cowardly" and said Tehran would give a "proportionate response" following investigations. "The question now is, those who accused Iran of disrupting free maritime transport in the Persian Gulf and the attack on Aramco installations with no proof, are they ready to once again defend the principles of free maritime transportation in international waters and condemn such an attack on an Iranian ship?" he said.

Iran vows response to attack on tanker off Saudi coast

German leaders were on Thursday to visit the scene of a deadly <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gunman-kills-two-in-livestreamed-attack-at-german-synagogue-254847">anti-Semitic gun attack </a>carried out on the holy day of Yom Kippur, as Jews demanded action to protect the community from the rising threat of neo-Nazi violence.

Two people were shot dead in the eastern German city of Halle on Wednesday, with a synagogue among the targets. The suspect, identified by media as 27-year-old German Stephan Balliet, filmed the assault and streamed it online.

The victims, a man and a woman, were apparently chosen at random when the assailant failed to gain access to the temple he had besieged with gunfire and homemade explosives, as the frightened congregation barricaded itself inside.

The rampage was streamed live for 35 minutes on Twitch, and eventually seen by some 2,200 people, the online platform said, in a chilling reminder of the mosque attack in Christchurch, New Zealand in March which was also played out online in real-time.

Police subsequently captured the Halle suspect after a gun battle that left him wounded.

Chancellor Angela Merkel joined a solidarity vigil at a historic synagogue in central Berlin late Wednesday, and firmly condemned the anti-Semitic rampage.

But Jewish leaders said that words were not enough, with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu joining calls for German authorities to "act resolutely against the phenomenon of anti-Semitism".

The head of the Central Council of Jews in Germany ripped into the authorities for failing to provide adequate security on the holiest day of the Jewish calendar.

"It is scandalous that the synagogue in Halle is not protected by police on a holiday like Yom Kippur," said Josef Schuster.

"This negligence has now been bitterly repaid."

Schuster was to join German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier, Interior Minister Horst Seehofer and local leaders in Halle at the synagogue ahead of a joint news conference.

Ronald Lauder, who heads the World Jewish Congress, also stressed the far-right threat. "The fact that 75 years after the Holocaust, such groups are gaining influence in Germany speaks volumes."

Germany has taken pride in the rebirth of Jewish life since the Nazis' World War II slaughter of six million Jews across Europe. The community has grown to about 225,000 thanks in large part to an influx from the ex-Soviet Union after the fall of the Berlin Wall.

&nbsp;

- 'We made it out' -

In a copy of a 35-minute video obtained by AFP the gunman filmed himself launching into a diatribe against women and Jews and denying the Holocaust, before carrying out the attack.

The video's authenticity has been confirmed by the SITE monitoring group but not by police.

The gunman also published an anti-Semitic "manifesto" online more than a week ago, according to SITE director Rita Katz, who said the document showed pictures of the weapons and ammunition he used.

In the video, he was seen trying to force open the synagogue door before shooting dead a female passer-by. He then tried unsuccessfully to blast open the gate of the Jewish cemetery with explosives.

The man was later seen shooting at a patron of a kebab shop about 600 metres (yards) away from the synagogue.

Jewish community leader Max Privorotzki, who was in the Halle synagogue, told the Stuttgarter Zeitung of the harrowing minutes as the site came under assault.

"We saw through the camera of our synagogue that a heavily armed perpetrator wearing a steel helmet and rifle was trying to shoot open our door."

Between 70 and 80 people were in the synagogue then.

"We barricaded our doors from inside and waited for the police," he said. "Then we carried on with our service."

&nbsp;

- 'Like a professional' -

Among those in the synagogue were 10 Americans, as well as several Israelis, who had turned up in Halle especially to join the small local population in celebrating Yom Kippur.

"We've made it out with our lives, in health and amazing spirits," wrote Rebecca Blady, a Jewish American community leader, who was in the synagogue.

An employee at the kebab shop, Rifat Tekin, meanwhile described the gunman as "calm like a professional".

"Maybe he has done this many times. Like me making a kebab, he's doing this -- like a professional."

Bild daily spoke to relatives and neighbours who described Balliet as a loner and computer junkie who lived with his mother.

Anti-terrorist prosecutors confirmed that they were taking over the probe. Investigators were combing his online traffic for clues to possible links to far-right networks.

Wednesday's shootings came three months after the assassination-style murder of local pro-migrant politician Walter Luebcke in the western city of Kassel, allegedly by a known neo-Nazi.

Luebcke's killing has deeply shaken Germany, raising questions about whether it has failed to take seriously a rising threat from right-wing extremists.

Seehofer last month warned of the rising danger of the violent far right, calling it "as big a threat as radical Islamism".

German leaders were on Thursday to visit the scene of a deadly anti-Semitic gun attack carried out on the holy day of Yom Kippur, as Jews demanded action to protect the community from the rising threat of neo-Nazi violence.

German leaders were on Thursday to visit the scene of a deadly anti-Semitic gun attack carried out on the holy day of Yom Kippur, as Jews demanded action to protect the community from the rising threat of neo-Nazi violence. Two people were shot dead in the eastern German city of Halle on Wednesday, with a synagogue among the targets. The suspect, identified by media as 27-year-old German Stephan Balliet, filmed the assault and streamed it online. The victims, a man and a woman, were apparently chosen at random when the assailant failed to gain access to the temple he had besieged with gunfire and homemade explosives, as the frightened congregation barricaded itself inside. The rampage was streamed live for 35 minutes on Twitch, and eventually seen by some 2,200 people, the online platform said, in a chilling reminder of the mosque attack in Christchurch, New Zealand in March which was also played out online in real-time. Police subsequently captured the Halle suspect after a gun battle that left him wounded. Chancellor Angela Merkel joined a solidarity vigil at a historic synagogue in central Berlin late Wednesday, and firmly condemned the anti-Semitic rampage. But Jewish leaders said that words were not enough, with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu joining calls for German authorities to "act resolutely against the phenomenon of anti-Semitism". The head of the Central Council of Jews in Germany ripped into the authorities for failing to provide adequate security on the holiest day of the Jewish calendar. "It is scandalous that the synagogue in Halle is not protected by police on a holiday like Yom Kippur," said Josef Schuster. "This negligence has now been bitterly repaid." Schuster was to join German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier, Interior Minister Horst Seehofer and local leaders in Halle at the synagogue ahead of a joint news conference. Ronald Lauder, who heads the World Jewish Congress, also stressed the far-right threat. "The fact that 75 years after the Holocaust, such groups are gaining influence in Germany speaks volumes." Germany has taken pride in the rebirth of Jewish life since the Nazis' World War II slaughter of six million Jews across Europe. The community has grown to about 225,000 thanks in large part to an influx from the ex-Soviet Union after the fall of the Berlin Wall. - 'We made it out' - In a copy of a 35-minute video obtained by AFP the gunman filmed himself launching into a diatribe against women and Jews and denying the Holocaust, before carrying out the attack. The video's authenticity has been confirmed by the SITE monitoring group but not by police. The gunman also published an anti-Semitic "manifesto" online more than a week ago, according to SITE director Rita Katz, who said the document showed pictures of the weapons and ammunition he used. In the video, he was seen trying to force open the synagogue door before shooting dead a female passer-by. He then tried unsuccessfully to blast open the gate of the Jewish cemetery with explosives. The man was later seen shooting at a patron of a kebab shop about 600 metres (yards) away from the synagogue. Jewish community leader Max Privorotzki, who was in the Halle synagogue, told the Stuttgarter Zeitung of the harrowing minutes as the site came under assault. "We saw through the camera of our synagogue that a heavily armed perpetrator wearing a steel helmet and rifle was trying to shoot open our door." Between 70 and 80 people were in the synagogue then. "We barricaded our doors from inside and waited for the police," he said. "Then we carried on with our service." - 'Like a professional' - Among those in the synagogue were 10 Americans, as well as several Israelis, who had turned up in Halle especially to join the small local population in celebrating Yom Kippur. "We've made it out with our lives, in health and amazing spirits," wrote Rebecca Blady, a Jewish American community leader, who was in the synagogue. An employee at the kebab shop, Rifat Tekin, meanwhile described the gunman as "calm like a professional". "Maybe he has done this many times. Like me making a kebab, he's doing this -- like a professional." Bild daily spoke to relatives and neighbours who described Balliet as a loner and computer junkie who lived with his mother. Anti-terrorist prosecutors confirmed that they were taking over the probe. Investigators were combing his online traffic for clues to possible links to far-right networks. Wednesday's shootings came three months after the assassination-style murder of local pro-migrant politician Walter Luebcke in the western city of Kassel, allegedly by a known neo-Nazi. Luebcke's killing has deeply shaken Germany, raising questions about whether it has failed to take seriously a rising threat from right-wing extremists. Seehofer last month warned of the rising danger of the violent far right, calling it "as big a threat as radical Islamism".

German leaders to visit scene of deadly anti-Semitic attack

Turkish bombardment on northeast Syria has <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/european-union-urges-turkey-to-halt-syria-offensive-will-not-pay-for-safe-zone-254817">killed at least two civilians</a>, a Kurdish militia said Wednesday, as Ankara launched a cross-border assault.

"Two civilians lost their lives, two others were injured in the Turkish aerial bombardment" on a village west of the border area of Ras Al-Ain, said the Syrian Democratic Forces' coordination and military operations centre.

Earlier on Wednesday, the SDF reported "intensive bombardment by Turkish jets on military positions and civilian villages" in the areas of Ras al-Ain, Tal Abyad, Qamishli and Ain Issa.&nbsp;

It also said that a total of 25 Turkish jets have been involved in the initial phase of the offensive, striking a total of 16 targets across the wide border area.

Watch: Turkey deploys tank convoy to Syrian border

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/turkey-deploys-tank-convoy-to-syrian-border-254803/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

It reiterated its call on the United States and the military coalition it leads in the region to implement "a no-fly zone to stop the attacks on innocent people".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/united-nations-security-council-head-appeals-to-turkey-for-restraint-in-syria-254812">The Kurd-led force also said Turkey's bombardment has triggered a wave of displacement from border areas.</a>

In Ras al-Ain on Wednesday, residents could be seen walking on the street, carrying luggage, as clouds of smoke rose to the air, an AFP correspondent there said.

Motorcycles and vehicles packed with people streamed out of the area, he said, as the sound of explosions rang from several parts of the region.

Turkish bombardment on northeast Syria has killed at least two civilians, a Kurdish militia said Wednesday, as Ankara launched a cross-border assault. "Two civilians lost their lives, two others were injured in the Turkish aerial bombardment" on a village west of the border area of Ras Al-Ain, said the Syrian Democratic Forces' coordination and military operations centre.

Turkish bombardment on northeast Syria has killed at least two civilians, a Kurdish militia said Wednesday, as Ankara launched a cross-border assault. "Two civilians lost their lives, two others were injured in the Turkish aerial bombardment" on a village west of the border area of Ras Al-Ain, said the Syrian Democratic Forces' coordination and military operations centre. Earlier on Wednesday, the SDF reported "intensive bombardment by Turkish jets on military positions and civilian villages" in the areas of Ras al-Ain, Tal Abyad, Qamishli and Ain Issa. It also said that a total of 25 Turkish jets have been involved in the initial phase of the offensive, striking a total of 16 targets across the wide border area. Watch: Turkey deploys tank convoy to Syrian border It reiterated its call on the United States and the military coalition it leads in the region to implement "a no-fly zone to stop the attacks on innocent people". The Kurd-led force also said Turkey's bombardment has triggered a wave of displacement from border areas. In Ras al-Ain on Wednesday, residents could be seen walking on the street, carrying luggage, as clouds of smoke rose to the air, an AFP correspondent there said. Motorcycles and vehicles packed with people streamed out of the area, he said, as the sound of explosions rang from several parts of the region.

Syria Kurds say two civilians killed in Turkish border attack

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-tourist-arrivals-in-september-fall-for-6th-month-254232">Sri Lanka's</a> police on Tuesday suspended two senior officers for falsely warning of a suicide attack similar to the Easter Sunday bombings that killed at least 258 people in April.

Several luxury hotels received a message from police last week cautioning them to step up security.

Police spokesman Ruwan Gunasekera said the two officers responsible were being disciplined for causing panic.

"Investigations showed that the Chief Inspector and his deputy had circulated false, unverified reports," Gunasekera said.

Several unfounded warnings of new violence have been issued by the Catholic church since the April 21 attacks.

Sri Lanka's police chief and the head of the defence ministry are currently facing criminal prosecutions for ignoring intelligence warnings ahead of the suicide bombings that targeted three churches and three luxury hotels.

Last month President Maithripala Sirisena ordered a fresh investigation, bowing to pressure from the head of the Catholic church in Sri Lanka.

The church has said a parliamentary probe and police investigation previously launched into the attacks are not sufficiently independent.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-faces-costliest-election-longest-ballot-paper-254467">Sri Lanka</a> imposed a state of emergency soon after the bombings but relaxed the laws three months later.

Armed police have been deployed at churches since the attacks, while hotels have adopted airport-style security measures.

The government has blamed a local jihadi group, the National Thowheeth Jama'ath (NTJ) while the Islamic State group also claimed responsibility.

It has said all those involved in the attacks are either dead or have been arrested. By the end of last month, 293 people had been taken into custody according to police.

Sri Lanka's police on Tuesday suspended two senior officers for falsely warning of a suicide attack similar to the Easter Sunday bombings that killed at least 258 people in April.

Sri Lanka's police on Tuesday suspended two senior officers for falsely warning of a suicide attack similar to the Easter Sunday bombings that killed at least 258 people in April. Several luxury hotels received a message from police last week cautioning them to step up security. Police spokesman Ruwan Gunasekera said the two officers responsible were being disciplined for causing panic. "Investigations showed that the Chief Inspector and his deputy had circulated false, unverified reports," Gunasekera said. Several unfounded warnings of new violence have been issued by the Catholic church since the April 21 attacks. Sri Lanka's police chief and the head of the defence ministry are currently facing criminal prosecutions for ignoring intelligence warnings ahead of the suicide bombings that targeted three churches and three luxury hotels. Last month President Maithripala Sirisena ordered a fresh investigation, bowing to pressure from the head of the Catholic church in Sri Lanka. The church has said a parliamentary probe and police investigation previously launched into the attacks are not sufficiently independent. Sri Lanka imposed a state of emergency soon after the bombings but relaxed the laws three months later. Armed police have been deployed at churches since the attacks, while hotels have adopted airport-style security measures. The government has blamed a local jihadi group, the National Thowheeth Jama'ath (NTJ) while the Islamic State group also claimed responsibility. It has said all those involved in the attacks are either dead or have been arrested. By the end of last month, 293 people had been taken into custody according to police.

Sri Lanka suspends senior officers for false attack warning

Following a grenade attack which led to as many as 10 people sustaining injuries here on Saturday, senior police officials have said that it was an attempt by terrorists to induce fear in the minds of people.

Speaking about the attack, AK Goyal, DIG South Kashmir said, "Terrorists lobbed a grenade at around 10:30 am today, in Lal Chowk area of Anantnag. Ten persons were injured and one of them is a traffic police constable."

He also said that terrorists want to create an atmosphere of fear through these attacks.

"People were busy in their work when this attack took place. This was done with an objective to spread fear and terror among people," he said.

Earlier in the day, the terrorists had lobbed grenade outside Deputy Commissioner`s office in Anantnag.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Following a grenade attack which led to as many as 10 people sustaining injuries here on Saturday, senior police officials have said that it was an attempt by terrorists to induce fear in the minds of people.

Following a grenade attack which led to as many as 10 people sustaining injuries here on Saturday, senior police officials have said that it was an attempt by terrorists to induce fear in the minds of people. Speaking about the attack, AK Goyal, DIG South Kashmir said, "Terrorists lobbed a grenade at around 10:30 am today, in Lal Chowk area of Anantnag. Ten persons were injured and one of them is a traffic police constable." He also said that terrorists want to create an atmosphere of fear through these attacks. "People were busy in their work when this attack took place. This was done with an objective to spread fear and terror among people," he said. Earlier in the day, the terrorists had lobbed grenade outside Deputy Commissioner`s office in Anantnag.

J&K: Terrorists wanted to spread fear among people, says DIG on grenade attack

Voter participation in Afghanistan's presidential elections appeared Sunday to have been lower than in previous years, with turnout hit by the threat of attacks, a muted campaign and concerns of fraud.

Afghans went to the polls Saturday to vote in the first round of a presidential race that will decide whether President Ashraf Ghani will win a second five-year term.

About 9.6 million Afghans in the war-torn nation -- with an estimated population of 35 million -- had registered to vote in the election, which was held at some 4,900 polling stations.

An initial tally released early Sunday by Afghanistan's Independent Election Commission showed that with data from slightly more than half the stations, just under 1.1 million people had voted.

If that turnout trend holds, it would represent a participation level of less than 25 per cent -- lower than any of Afghanistan's three previous presidential elections.&nbsp;

In 2014, for instance, turnout was a little under 50 per cent, although direct comparisons are tough because previous polls were tainted by allegations of systemic fraud.

Authorities heralded Saturday's election as a success because the Taliban were unable to pull off a large-scale attack resulting in high casualty numbers.&nbsp;

But the insurgents nonetheless pushed their offensive on the democratic process, conducting a string of bombings at polling stations and engaging Afghan security forces in clashes across the country.

According to the Afghanistan Analysts Network, which compiled incidents through various sources, more than 400 attacks had been reported over the course of the election day.

The Taliban claimed to have conducted 531 attacks, while the interior ministry said "the enemy" had carried out 68 assaults.

The official death toll is five security forces. But in years past, authorities have suppressed information on election day only to later give larger numbers.

'Much cleaner'

In addition to security threats, turnout was hampered by scepticism about the electoral process.&nbsp;

Previous polls, including the 2014 presidential election, were undermined by widespread allegations of vote-buying, ballot stuffing and fraud.&nbsp;

And the election campaign itself seemed almost moribund during the two months of campaigning because many thought the poll -- already twice delayed while the US and the Taliban tried to negotiate a troop withdrawal deal -- would be pushed back yet again.&nbsp;

It was only after US President Donald Trump scuppered those talks on September 7 that candidates really believed the election would take place, leaving little time for them to campaign.

Turnout was low because of security threats and "the weak campaigning of the candidates" political analyst and Kabul academic Atta Noori told AFP.

"It is not because they were not interested to vote," he said.

Independent political analyst Haroun Mir said that even with a low turnout, the election could be considered a victory for the democratic process because it was "much cleaner" than previous polls.&nbsp;

Election officials have said the result would be the purest yet, with equipment such as biometric fingerprint readers and better training for poll workers ensuring the vote was fair.

Results are not expected until October 19. Candidates need more than 50 per cent of the vote to be declared outright winner, or else the top two will head for a second round in November.

Voter participation in Afghanistan's presidential elections appeared Sunday to have been lower than in previous years, with turnout hit by the threat of attacks, a muted campaign and concerns of fraud.

Voter participation in Afghanistan's presidential elections appeared Sunday to have been lower than in previous years, with turnout hit by the threat of attacks, a muted campaign and concerns of fraud. Afghans went to the polls Saturday to vote in the first round of a presidential race that will decide whether President Ashraf Ghani will win a second five-year term. About 9.6 million Afghans in the war-torn nation -- with an estimated population of 35 million -- had registered to vote in the election, which was held at some 4,900 polling stations. An initial tally released early Sunday by Afghanistan's Independent Election Commission showed that with data from slightly more than half the stations, just under 1.1 million people had voted. If that turnout trend holds, it would represent a participation level of less than 25 per cent -- lower than any of Afghanistan's three previous presidential elections. In 2014, for instance, turnout was a little under 50 per cent, although direct comparisons are tough because previous polls were tainted by allegations of systemic fraud. Authorities heralded Saturday's election as a success because the Taliban were unable to pull off a large-scale attack resulting in high casualty numbers. But the insurgents nonetheless pushed their offensive on the democratic process, conducting a string of bombings at polling stations and engaging Afghan security forces in clashes across the country. According to the Afghanistan Analysts Network, which compiled incidents through various sources, more than 400 attacks had been reported over the course of the election day. The Taliban claimed to have conducted 531 attacks, while the interior ministry said "the enemy" had carried out 68 assaults. The official death toll is five security forces. But in years past, authorities have suppressed information on election day only to later give larger numbers. 'Much cleaner' In addition to security threats, turnout was hampered by scepticism about the electoral process. Previous polls, including the 2014 presidential election, were undermined by widespread allegations of vote-buying, ballot stuffing and fraud. And the election campaign itself seemed almost moribund during the two months of campaigning because many thought the poll -- already twice delayed while the US and the Taliban tried to negotiate a troop withdrawal deal -- would be pushed back yet again. It was only after US President Donald Trump scuppered those talks on September 7 that candidates really believed the election would take place, leaving little time for them to campaign. Turnout was low because of security threats and "the weak campaigning of the candidates" political analyst and Kabul academic Atta Noori told AFP. "It is not because they were not interested to vote," he said. Independent political analyst Haroun Mir said that even with a low turnout, the election could be considered a victory for the democratic process because it was "much cleaner" than previous polls. Election officials have said the result would be the purest yet, with equipment such as biometric fingerprint readers and better training for poll workers ensuring the vote was fair. Results are not expected until October 19. Candidates need more than 50 per cent of the vote to be declared outright winner, or else the top two will head for a second round in November.

Attacks, fraud fears dampen turnout in Afghan election

Pakistan requested the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) demanding the release of monthly expenses for 2008 Mumbai attack mastermind and globally designated <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistan-approaches-unsc-to-allow-release-of-monthly-expenses-for-terrorist-hafiz-saeed-committee-allows-request-252107">terrorist Hafiz Saeed</a>.

The council has 'approved' the letter after no objections were raised to it within the set deadline.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pak-pleads-unsc-to-allow-hafiz-saeed-to-withdraw-money-for-basic-needs-252121">Pakistan</a>, which has time and again proven to be a safe haven for global terrorists, has based its request by outlining the monthly expenses requirement of Jammat-ud Dawah (JuD) chief Saeed, who it claims, has to support a family of four.

In a letter to the UN Security Council Sanctions Committee, Pakistan has requested an asset freeze exemption for Saeed to access frozen funds and withdraw 1,50,000 Pakistani rupees every month to cover the claimed necessary expenses for himself and his family.

Pakistan in its request stated that it has received a request from Pakistani national Saeed, demanding a freeze exemption on his bank account.

Being a proscribed terrorist, Saeed is subjected to comprehensive economic and trade sanctions such as arms embargoes, travel bans, and financial or commodity restrictions.

In a notification, the UNSC Sanctions Committee said that Pakistani authorities had requested it to authorize certain expenditure to the benefit of Saeed.

"The Chair wishes to inform the members that no objections were placed by the set deadline of 15 August 2019 for the consideration of the draft letter.

Consequently, the letter is approved and the Chair will instruct the Secretariat to dispatch it," the notification stated.

Hafiz Saeed, which has been designated as global terrorists by the United States, United Nations, and the European Union is responsible for many terrorist attacks in India including 26/11 attack in which 166 people were killed.

He is also accused of plotting the ghastly 2001 Parliament attack in India.

Both India and the US have repeatedly called for justice to be delivered to the victims of the 2008 Mumbai attacks.

The UNSC on December 10, 2008, had listed Saeed as being associated with Lashkar-e-Tayyiba and Al Qaida for "participating in the financing, planning, facilitating, preparing or perpetrating of acts of activities by, in conjunction with, under the name of, on behalf or in support of" both entities.

While the mastermind of the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks was arrested in Pakistan on charges related to terror financing, the Islamabad's recent action of approaching the UN to seek help for Saeed tells a different story.

It appears the recent action by Pakistan of booking Saeed was a mere play to save itself from any sanctions by Financial Action Task Force (FATF), an inter-governmental body.

Pakistan is making weak and fake cases against the proscribed terror outfits knowing well that they do not have legal standing other than to just make a point with the FATF,&nbsp;which is blatantly misleading as evidenced by the nature of the FIRs being filed against the terror groups and their supporters.

India had also labelled Hafiz's latest arrest as mere "drama" and "cosmetic".

The&nbsp;world&nbsp;community then and now has accused Pakistan of providing "sanctuary" to terrorists and providing them with a safe haven to carry out terror activities.

Pakistan requested the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) demanding the release of monthly expenses for 2008 Mumbai attack mastermind and globally designated terrorist Hafiz Saeed.

Pakistan requested the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) demanding the release of monthly expenses for 2008 Mumbai attack mastermind and globally designated terrorist Hafiz Saeed. The council has 'approved' the letter after no objections were raised to it within the set deadline. Pakistan, which has time and again proven to be a safe haven for global terrorists, has based its request by outlining the monthly expenses requirement of Jammat-ud Dawah (JuD) chief Saeed, who it claims, has to support a family of four. In a letter to the UN Security Council Sanctions Committee, Pakistan has requested an asset freeze exemption for Saeed to access frozen funds and withdraw 1,50,000 Pakistani rupees every month to cover the claimed necessary expenses for himself and his family. Pakistan in its request stated that it has received a request from Pakistani national Saeed, demanding a freeze exemption on his bank account. Being a proscribed terrorist, Saeed is subjected to comprehensive economic and trade sanctions such as arms embargoes, travel bans, and financial or commodity restrictions. In a notification, the UNSC Sanctions Committee said that Pakistani authorities had requested it to authorize certain expenditure to the benefit of Saeed. "The Chair wishes to inform the members that no objections were placed by the set deadline of 15 August 2019 for the consideration of the draft letter. Consequently, the letter is approved and the Chair will instruct the Secretariat to dispatch it," the notification stated. Hafiz Saeed, which has been designated as global terrorists by the United States, United Nations, and the European Union is responsible for many terrorist attacks in India including 26/11 attack in which 166 people were killed. He is also accused of plotting the ghastly 2001 Parliament attack in India. Both India and the US have repeatedly called for justice to be delivered to the victims of the 2008 Mumbai attacks. The UNSC on December 10, 2008, had listed Saeed as being associated with Lashkar-e-Tayyiba and Al Qaida for "participating in the financing, planning, facilitating, preparing or perpetrating of acts of activities by, in conjunction with, under the name of, on behalf or in support of" both entities. While the mastermind of the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks was arrested in Pakistan on charges related to terror financing, the Islamabad's recent action of approaching the UN to seek help for Saeed tells a different story. It appears the recent action by Pakistan of booking Saeed was a mere play to save itself from any sanctions by Financial Action Task Force (FATF), an inter-governmental body. Pakistan is making weak and fake cases against the proscribed terror outfits knowing well that they do not have legal standing other than to just make a point with the FATF, which is blatantly misleading as evidenced by the nature of the FIRs being filed against the terror groups and their supporters. India had also labelled Hafiz's latest arrest as mere "drama" and "cosmetic". The world community then and now has accused Pakistan of providing "sanctuary" to terrorists and providing them with a safe haven to carry out terror activities.

Pakistan request to disperse monthly expenses for global terrorist Hafiz Saeed gets UNSC's nod

Nine people have been killed in two attacks in northern Burkina Faso, a region bearing the brunt of a jihadist revolt, officials said on Monday.

"Six people were killed by armed men overnight Saturday at Pissele, near Bourzanga", a security official said.

Bourzanga is located about 50 kilometres south of Djibo, a hotspot for jihadist attacks.

A local administrative official said three people "were shot dead in the village of Bool-Kiiba," and their bodies were found after the assailants left.

Others were unaccounted for, the official said, adding that the attackers also looted possessions, including motorbikes.

A security official confirmed that an<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dozens-dead-in-islamist-attack-in-burkina-faso-human-rights-watch-204817"> attack</a> on Bool-Kiiba had taken place but was unable to give a toll.

Burkina Faso has become part of a<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/12-civilians-killed-during-a-jihadist-attack-in-burkina-faso-189707"> seven-year-old jihadist insurgency</a> in the poor, fragile Sahel region.

More than 580 people have been killed since early 2015, according to an AFP toll.&nbsp;

Many of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gunmen-kill-six-in-burkina-faso-catholic-church-sources-218146">attacks</a> have been attributed to groups affiliated to Al-Qaeda, and others to the so-called Islamic State group.

On Thursday, five soldiers were killed in an ambush at Toeni, in the northwestern province of Sourou.

Nine people have been killed in two attacks in northern Burkina Faso, a region bearing the brunt of a jihadist revolt, officials said on Monday. "Six people were killed by armed men overnight Saturday at Pissele, near Bourzanga", a security official said.

Nine people have been killed in two attacks in northern Burkina Faso, a region bearing the brunt of a jihadist revolt, officials said on Monday. "Six people were killed by armed men overnight Saturday at Pissele, near Bourzanga", a security official said. Bourzanga is located about 50 kilometres south of Djibo, a hotspot for jihadist attacks. A local administrative official said three people "were shot dead in the village of Bool-Kiiba," and their bodies were found after the assailants left. Others were unaccounted for, the official said, adding that the attackers also looted possessions, including motorbikes. A security official confirmed that an attack on Bool-Kiiba had taken place but was unable to give a toll. Burkina Faso has become part of a seven-year-old jihadist insurgency in the poor, fragile Sahel region. More than 580 people have been killed since early 2015, according to an AFP toll. Many of the attacks have been attributed to groups affiliated to Al-Qaeda, and others to the so-called Islamic State group. On Thursday, five soldiers were killed in an ambush at Toeni, in the northwestern province of Sourou.

Burkina Faso: Nine people killed in Jihadist attacks

Saudi Arabia will take appropriate steps to respond to an attack on its oil facilities if, as expected, a Saudi investigation confirms that Iran is responsible, a senior official said on Saturday.

Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Adel al-Jubeir said the probe would prove that the September&nbsp;14 strikes came from the north and that Iran bore responsibility, a charge Tehran denies.

Riyadh has rejected a claim by Yemen's Iran-aligned Houthi movement that it carried out the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-aramco-has-emerged-from-attacks-stronger-than-ever-ceo-251027">strikes on two oil plants</a> that initially halved Saudi production, the largest-ever assault on oil facilities in the world's top oil exporter.

It has already said the investigation so far shows that Iranian weapons were used and the attack originated from the north, and that it was pinpointing the exact location.

Saudi Arabia will take appropriate steps to respond to an attack on its oil facilities if, as expected, a Saudi investigation confirms that Iran is responsible, a senior official said on Saturday.

Saudi Arabia will take appropriate steps to respond to an attack on its oil facilities if, as expected, a Saudi investigation confirms that Iran is responsible, a senior official said on Saturday. Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Adel al-Jubeir said the probe would prove that the September 14 strikes came from the north and that Iran bore responsibility, a charge Tehran denies. Riyadh has rejected a claim by Yemen's Iran-aligned Houthi movement that it carried out the strikes on two oil plants that initially halved Saudi production, the largest-ever assault on oil facilities in the world's top oil exporter. It has already said the investigation so far shows that Iranian weapons were used and the attack originated from the north, and that it was pinpointing the exact location.

Saudi says it will respond appropriately if probe confirms Iran's role in attacks

Saudi&nbsp;Aramco's&nbsp;trading&nbsp;arm&nbsp;is looking for oil&nbsp;products&nbsp;for prompt delivery&nbsp;after&nbsp;Saturday's&nbsp;attacks&nbsp;on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dont-need-middle-east-oil-gas-but-will-help-our-allies-says-trump-after-attacks-on-saudi-arabias-aramco-250005">Saudi oil facilities</a>, several trade&nbsp;sources&nbsp;said this week.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-arabia-shuts-pipeline-to-bahrain-after-aramco-attacks-sources-250013">Saudi&nbsp;Arabia</a> is set to become a significant buyer of&nbsp;refined&nbsp;products&nbsp;after&nbsp;the&nbsp;attacks&nbsp;forced it to shut down more than half of its crude oil output and some of its gas, consultancy Energy Aspects said in a note on Sunday.

The&nbsp;attacks&nbsp;may have curtailed as much as 1 million barrels per day (bpd) of&nbsp;Aramco's refining capacity, Energy Aspects said, although this could not be confirmed and it was not clear to which&nbsp;Saudi&nbsp;Aramco&nbsp;refineries it was referring.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/international-oil-prices-surge-nearly-20-after-attack-on-saudi-oil-facilities-249978">Aramco&nbsp;Trading&nbsp;Company</a> (ATC), the&nbsp;trading&nbsp;arm&nbsp;of&nbsp;Saudi&nbsp;Aramco, is making enquiries to buy diesel for the prompt delivery, two of the trade&nbsp;sources&nbsp;said.

Saudi&nbsp;Arabia is typically a net exporter of diesel.

"They are looking (for oil&nbsp;products) since they are trimming runs at some of the refineries," one source said, declining to be named as he was not authorised to speak to media.

He said the total volumes sought by&nbsp;Saudi&nbsp;Arabia were not immediately clear, but that the prompt derivatives market was&nbsp;trading&nbsp;higher on Monday.

ATC is seeking 10 parts-per-million (ppm) sulphur diesel through private discussions, asking for "anything prompt," a second trader said.

It is also seeking 500ppm sulphur gasoil for delivery into the Arabian Gulf, most likely for domestic use, said a third source, in the refining industry.

Brent crude futures, the international benchmark, rose by as much as 19.5 per cent&nbsp;to $71.95 per barrel during early Asian&nbsp;trading&nbsp;hours.

A fourth&nbsp;trading&nbsp;source said&nbsp;Aramco&nbsp;Trading&nbsp;may have bought two ultra-low sulphur diesel cargoes from India and the Middle East, although this could not be confirmed immediately and further details were not available.

"The issue for&nbsp;Aramco&nbsp;is how they can meet their huge commitments to deliver&nbsp;products&nbsp;in September and October," another diesel trader said.

The trader, who is expecting a delivery of a&nbsp;Saudi&nbsp;diesel cargo at the end of the month, said they have not yet heard any notifications of changes from&nbsp;Aramco.

An ATC official declined to comment on the matter.

"Tightness in ultra-low-sulfur diesel will be magnified especially since the new&nbsp;Saudi&nbsp;export refineries produce 40 to 45 per cent&nbsp;low sulfur diesel," Gary Ross, founder of Black Gold Investors, told Reuters.

Saudi Aramco's trading arm is looking for oil products for prompt delivery after Saturday's attacks on Saudi oil facilities, several trade sources said this week.

Saudi Aramco's trading arm is looking for oil products for prompt delivery after Saturday's attacks on Saudi oil facilities, several trade sources said this week. Saudi Arabia is set to become a significant buyer of refined products after the attacks forced it to shut down more than half of its crude oil output and some of its gas, consultancy Energy Aspects said in a note on Sunday. The attacks may have curtailed as much as 1 million barrels per day (bpd) of Aramco's refining capacity, Energy Aspects said, although this could not be confirmed and it was not clear to which Saudi Aramco refineries it was referring. Aramco Trading Company (ATC), the trading arm of Saudi Aramco, is making enquiries to buy diesel for the prompt delivery, two of the trade sources said. Saudi Arabia is typically a net exporter of diesel. "They are looking (for oil products) since they are trimming runs at some of the refineries," one source said, declining to be named as he was not authorised to speak to media. He said the total volumes sought by Saudi Arabia were not immediately clear, but that the prompt derivatives market was trading higher on Monday. ATC is seeking 10 parts-per-million (ppm) sulphur diesel through private discussions, asking for "anything prompt," a second trader said. It is also seeking 500ppm sulphur gasoil for delivery into the Arabian Gulf, most likely for domestic use, said a third source, in the refining industry. Brent crude futures, the international benchmark, rose by as much as 19.5 per cent to $71.95 per barrel during early Asian trading hours. A fourth trading source said Aramco Trading may have bought two ultra-low sulphur diesel cargoes from India and the Middle East, although this could not be confirmed immediately and further details were not available. "The issue for Aramco is how they can meet their huge commitments to deliver products in September and October," another diesel trader said. The trader, who is expecting a delivery of a Saudi diesel cargo at the end of the month, said they have not yet heard any notifications of changes from Aramco. An ATC official declined to comment on the matter. "Tightness in ultra-low-sulfur diesel will be magnified especially since the new Saudi export refineries produce 40 to 45 per cent low sulfur diesel," Gary Ross, founder of Black Gold Investors, told Reuters.

Saudi Aramco trading arm wants refined products after attacks: sources

Oil shed some of its massive gains on Tuesday (September 17) as the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dont-need-middle-east-oil-gas-but-will-help-our-allies-says-trump-after-attacks-on-saudi-arabias-aramco-250005">United States</a> flagged the possible release of crude reserves, but the threat of military action over the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/international-oil-prices-surge-nearly-20-after-attack-on-saudi-oil-facilities-249978">attacks on Saudi oil</a> facilities kept prices elevated and stocks under pressure.

While equity market losses have not been large, shaky investor confidence continued to support safe-haven assets, with gold edging higher on Tuesday and Treasury prices rising.

Investors otherwise broadly remained on the sidelines ahead of an expected interest rate cut from the US&nbsp;Federal Reserve on Wednesday (September 18) and the next round of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-dismisses-us-claim-it-was-behind-saudi-oil-attacks-says-ready-for-war-249810">US</a>-China trade talks on Thursday.

The benchmark Nikkei average added 0.2 per cent&nbsp;to 22,021.86 in mid-morning trade to mark its highest level since May 7, as soaring oil prices triggered by attacks on Saudi oil facilities boosted oil and gas-related companies.

MSCI's broadest index of Asia-Pacific shares outside Japan was down 0.6 per&nbsp;cent.

Chinese shares fell 0.85 per cent, while Australian shares were down 0.27 per cent.

Brent crude, the international benchmark, fell 1.78 per cent to&nbsp;$67.79 per barrel in Asia on Tuesday.

On Monday Brent surged by 14.6 per cent for&nbsp;its biggest one-day percentage gain since at least 1988.

Saturday's attack on Saudi oil facilities has halved the kingdom's oil output, creating the biggest disruption to global oil supplies in absolute terms since the overthrow of the Iranian Shah in 1979, International Energy Agency data show.

In South Korea, stocks opened slightly lower with the Korea Composite Stock Price Index (KOSPI) down 3.14 points or 0.15 per cent to 2,059.08 points as of 0200 GMT.

China stocks fell on Tuesday as Beijing kept a key money rate unchanged even as recent readings pointed to further downward pressure on the world's second-largest economy.

In Hong Kong, stocks extended falls after credit rating agency Moody's downgraded the island city's outlook.

The Hang Seng index dropped 1.0 per cent, to 26,849.72, while the Hong Kong China Enterprises Index lost 1.0 per cent, to 10,520.42.

Oil shed some of its massive gains on Tuesday (September 17) as the United States flagged the possible release of crude reserves, but the threat of military action over the attacks on Saudi oil facilities kept prices elevated and stocks under pressure.

Oil shed some of its massive gains on Tuesday (September 17) as the United States flagged the possible release of crude reserves, but the threat of military action over the attacks on Saudi oil facilities kept prices elevated and stocks under pressure. While equity market losses have not been large, shaky investor confidence continued to support safe-haven assets, with gold edging higher on Tuesday and Treasury prices rising. Investors otherwise broadly remained on the sidelines ahead of an expected interest rate cut from the US Federal Reserve on Wednesday (September 18) and the next round of US-China trade talks on Thursday. The benchmark Nikkei average added 0.2 per cent to 22,021.86 in mid-morning trade to mark its highest level since May 7, as soaring oil prices triggered by attacks on Saudi oil facilities boosted oil and gas-related companies. MSCI's broadest index of Asia-Pacific shares outside Japan was down 0.6 per cent. Chinese shares fell 0.85 per cent, while Australian shares were down 0.27 per cent. Brent crude, the international benchmark, fell 1.78 per cent to $67.79 per barrel in Asia on Tuesday. On Monday Brent surged by 14.6 per cent for its biggest one-day percentage gain since at least 1988. Saturday's attack on Saudi oil facilities has halved the kingdom's oil output, creating the biggest disruption to global oil supplies in absolute terms since the overthrow of the Iranian Shah in 1979, International Energy Agency data show. In South Korea, stocks opened slightly lower with the Korea Composite Stock Price Index (KOSPI) down 3.14 points or 0.15 per cent to 2,059.08 points as of 0200 GMT. China stocks fell on Tuesday as Beijing kept a key money rate unchanged even as recent readings pointed to further downward pressure on the world's second-largest economy. In Hong Kong, stocks extended falls after credit rating agency Moody's downgraded the island city's outlook. The Hang Seng index dropped 1.0 per cent, to 26,849.72, while the Hong Kong China Enterprises Index lost 1.0 per cent, to 10,520.42.

Oil falls more than 1 per cent as market awaits response to Saudi oil attacks

Iran's Foreign Minister Mohammed Javad Zarif said on Sunday that the United States and its allies were "stuck in Yemen" and that blaming Tehran "won't end the disaster".

 
"Having failed at "max pressure", @SecPompeo's turning to "max deceit". The US &amp; its clients are stuck in Yemen because of the illusion that weapon superiority will lead to military victory. Blaming Iran won't end disaster," Zarif said on Twitter.

Javad Zarif Tweet:

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Having failed at "max pressure", <a href="https://twitter.com/SecPompeo?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SecPompeo</a>'s turning to "max deceit" 
 
US &amp; its clients are stuck in Yemen because of illusion that weapon superiority will lead to military victory. 
 
Blaming Iran won't end disaster. Accepting our April '15 proposal to end war &amp; begin talks may.
— Javad Zarif (@JZarif) <a href="https://twitter.com/JZarif/status/1173162202926333952?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 15, 2019</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

The US&nbsp;Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Saturday blamed Iran for the drone attacks which hit two of Saudi Arabia's Aramco oil installations and were claimed by Yemen's Iran-aligned Houthi group, saying that "Iran has now launched an unprecedented attack on the world's energy supply."

Iran's Foreign Minister Mohammed Javad Zarif said on Sunday that the United States and its allies were "stuck in Yemen" and that blaming Tehran "won't end the disaster".

Iran's Foreign Minister Mohammed Javad Zarif said on Sunday that the United States and its allies were "stuck in Yemen" and that blaming Tehran "won't end the disaster". "Having failed at "max pressure", @SecPompeo's turning to "max deceit". The US & its clients are stuck in Yemen because of the illusion that weapon superiority will lead to military victory. Blaming Iran won't end disaster," Zarif said on Twitter. Javad Zarif Tweet: Having failed at "max pressure", @SecPompeo's turning to "max deceit" US & its clients are stuck in Yemen because of illusion that weapon superiority will lead to military victory. Blaming Iran won't end disaster. Accepting our April '15 proposal to end war & begin talks may. — Javad Zarif (@JZarif) September 15, 2019 × The US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Saturday blamed Iran for the drone attacks which hit two of Saudi Arabia's Aramco oil installations and were claimed by Yemen's Iran-aligned Houthi group, saying that "Iran has now launched an unprecedented attack on the world's energy supply."

Iran Foreign Minister Zarif says the US, allies are 'stuck in Yemen'

At least three people were injured in a magnetic improvised explosive device (IED) blast in Shaheed Square here on Monday.

The incident was confirmed by Kabul police spokesman Ferdaws Faramarz, according to TOLOnews.

The blast occurred in Kabul's Police District (PD) 4.&nbsp;

At least three people were injured in a magnetic improvised explosive device (IED) blast in Shaheed Square here on Monday. The incident was confirmed by Kabul police spokesman Ferdaws Faramarz, according to TOLOnews.

At least three people were injured in a magnetic improvised explosive device (IED) blast in Shaheed Square here on Monday. The incident was confirmed by Kabul police spokesman Ferdaws Faramarz, according to TOLOnews. The blast occurred in Kabul's Police District (PD) 4.

Afghanistan: 3 people wounded in IED blast in Kabul

The head of Russia's central election committee was attacked at night by a masked assailant who climbed into her house and hit her with a taser, Russian police said Friday.

The head of Russia's central election committee was attacked at night by a masked assailant who climbed into her house and hit her with a taser, Russian police said Friday. The attack on 65-year-old Ella Pamfilova, at around 1:30 am (Thursday 2330 GMT) came ahead of contentious regional elections on Sunday, which have prompted large protests in Moscow. Police described the attack in a village outside Moscow as "armed assault," saying the offender "entered the house's conservatory via a window and hit the owner with an electric shocker several times, after which he fled". Pamfilova on Friday took part in a press conference and television footage did not show any visible injuries. She told journalists that she is ok. "I'll survive," she was quoted as saying by Interfax. Police have launched a probe into the attack. State media immediately speculated that the attack could be foul play related to elections for Moscow city parliament, criticised by the opposition after authorities barred most independent candidates from standing. "What was it, a robbery or carrying out of an order to disrupt the election?" asked state-controlled Rossiya 24 channel. Meanwhile, top opposition leader Alexei Navalny claimed that the attack was "fake". Electoral officials including Pamfilova have backed the decision to bar opposition candidates, saying the signatures of supporters they gathered to run were invalid. This led to the biggest political crisis in years, with large protests gathering in the capital since July to demand that the opposition be allowed to run. Following mass detentions, several people have been sentenced to long prison terms for attacking police during the rallies. "I hope the culprits are found quickly," wrote one of the rejected opposition candidates, Lyubov Sobol. "Pamfilova should certainly be put on trial for election falsifications. But I'm against extrajudicial punishment."

Armed assault on Russian election chief: Police

The Taliban launched an offensive Friday against a key city in western Afghanistan, officials said, the latest in a surge of attacks as the US pushes for a deal that would allow it to begin withdrawing troops.

Dozens of Taliban fighters assaulted Farah city, the capital of Farah province, early in the day and seized an Afghan army recruitment centre, Farooq Barakzai, the spokesman for Farah's provincial governor, told AFP.

Taliban spokesman Qari Yousuf Ahmadi meanwhile said a "massive operation" was underway in the province.

The remote poppy-growing region that borders Iran has been the scene of intense fighting in recent years, and there have long been fears that its capital is vulnerable.

Interior ministry spokesman Nasrat Rahimi said the Taliban had suffered "heavy blows" and would be "eliminated very soon".

In May last year, the Taliban made a major attempt to capture Farah city but were eventually driven back by Afghan and US forces.

The Taliban have been stepping up operations in recent days even as they negotiate with Washington for a deal that would see the US pull troops from Afghanistan in return for various security guarantees.

On Saturday, the group attempted to seize the provincial capital of Kunduz in the north and sporadic fighting continued on the outskirts all week.

And on Sunday, they launched an operation in the city of Pul-e Khumri, the capital of neighbouring Baghlan province.

The capital Kabul too has been rocked by back-to-back bombings this week that have claimed dozens of lives.

The Taliban launched an offensive Friday against a key city in western Afghanistan, officials said, the latest in a surge of attacks as the US pushes for a deal that would allow it to begin withdrawing troops.

The Taliban launched an offensive Friday against a key city in western Afghanistan, officials said, the latest in a surge of attacks as the US pushes for a deal that would allow it to begin withdrawing troops. Dozens of Taliban fighters assaulted Farah city, the capital of Farah province, early in the day and seized an Afghan army recruitment centre, Farooq Barakzai, the spokesman for Farah's provincial governor, told AFP. Taliban spokesman Qari Yousuf Ahmadi meanwhile said a "massive operation" was underway in the province. The remote poppy-growing region that borders Iran has been the scene of intense fighting in recent years, and there have long been fears that its capital is vulnerable. Interior ministry spokesman Nasrat Rahimi said the Taliban had suffered "heavy blows" and would be "eliminated very soon". In May last year, the Taliban made a major attempt to capture Farah city but were eventually driven back by Afghan and US forces. The Taliban have been stepping up operations in recent days even as they negotiate with Washington for a deal that would see the US pull troops from Afghanistan in return for various security guarantees. On Saturday, the group attempted to seize the provincial capital of Kunduz in the north and sporadic fighting continued on the outskirts all week. And on Sunday, they launched an operation in the city of Pul-e Khumri, the capital of neighbouring Baghlan province. The capital Kabul too has been rocked by back-to-back bombings this week that have claimed dozens of lives.

Taliban assault provincial capital in west Afghanistan

One person was killed and at least nine others wounded on Saturday in the city of Villeurbanne near Lyon in central France after a suspected knife attack, a police source told Reuters.

A suspect carrying a knife was arrested, the source said. A second source close to the police said the man had told officers he was an Afghan national.

The police source said the motivation for the suspected attack, which took place around 1430 GMT, was not immediately clear.

The police source said authorities had been hunting for a suspected second attacker. But the second source said this search was now not being pursued, adding that the victim was aged 19.

The suspected attacker assaulted residents waiting at a bus stop and then ran towards an underground station before being seized by other local people and transport staff, Lyon mayor Lyon Gerard Collomb told reporters.

A helicopter was patrolling the area, a Reuters correspondent at the location reported.

&nbsp;

One person was killed and at least nine others wounded on Saturday in the city of Villeurbanne near Lyon in central France after a suspected knife attack, a police source told Reuters.

One person was killed and at least nine others wounded on Saturday in the city of Villeurbanne near Lyon in central France after a suspected knife attack, a police source told Reuters. A suspect carrying a knife was arrested, the source said. A second source close to the police said the man had told officers he was an Afghan national. The police source said the motivation for the suspected attack, which took place around 1430 GMT, was not immediately clear. The police source said authorities had been hunting for a suspected second attacker. But the second source said this search was now not being pursued, adding that the victim was aged 19. The suspected attacker assaulted residents waiting at a bus stop and then ran towards an underground station before being seized by other local people and transport staff, Lyon mayor Lyon Gerard Collomb told reporters. A helicopter was patrolling the area, a Reuters correspondent at the location reported.

One dead, nine wounded in France after suspected knife attack

In a tacit deterrence to Pakistan against any misadventure or war, Vice President Venkaiah Naidu while speaking at an event in Visakhapatnam on Wednesday said that India will not attack anybody but if someone attacks India, it will give a fitting reply that they will not forget in their lifetime.

"Why is the acquisition of all these weapons and technologies? Why DRDO? Why Navy, Army and other Defence forces. It`s because others attack us. All Tom, Dick and Harry attack us. We will not attack anybody, I can assure you but if anybody attacks us, we will give them a fitting reply that they will not forget in their lifetime," said Venkaiah Naidu.

"We are not war-mongers but are peace-loving citizens. We know peace is the prerequisite for progress. If there is tension you cannot have the attention. We are aware of it but if somebody wants to create tension and one of our neighbour is aiding, abetting, funding, training terrorists continuously without realising the damage they are doing to humanity and damage they are doing to themselves in the coming future. We do not want to interfere in anybody`s internal affairs we also want others to not interfere in our internal matter," said Naidu in reference to Jammu and Kashmir.

"What is there to discuss about Kashmir. Kashmir is an integral part of India. From 1954 onwards elections are held, Chief Ministers are elected, there is elected governments at the state, Member of Parliaments are elected. What remains to be discussed is PoK that they should handover," said Naidu.

While speaking in Islamabad on Monday, Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi said that Pakistan is ready for every kind of war, in the wake of simmering tensions in the region over India`s historic move to withdraw the special status to Jammu and Kashmir.

In a tacit deterrence to Pakistan against any misadventure or war, Vice President Venkaiah Naidu while speaking at an event in Visakhapatnam on Wednesday said that India will not attack anybody but if someone attacks India, it will give a fitting reply that they will not forget in their lifetime.

In a tacit deterrence to Pakistan against any misadventure or war, Vice President Venkaiah Naidu while speaking at an event in Visakhapatnam on Wednesday said that India will not attack anybody but if someone attacks India, it will give a fitting reply that they will not forget in their lifetime. "Why is the acquisition of all these weapons and technologies? Why DRDO? Why Navy, Army and other Defence forces. It`s because others attack us. All Tom, Dick and Harry attack us. We will not attack anybody, I can assure you but if anybody attacks us, we will give them a fitting reply that they will not forget in their lifetime," said Venkaiah Naidu. "We are not war-mongers but are peace-loving citizens. We know peace is the prerequisite for progress. If there is tension you cannot have the attention. We are aware of it but if somebody wants to create tension and one of our neighbour is aiding, abetting, funding, training terrorists continuously without realising the damage they are doing to humanity and damage they are doing to themselves in the coming future. We do not want to interfere in anybody`s internal affairs we also want others to not interfere in our internal matter," said Naidu in reference to Jammu and Kashmir. "What is there to discuss about Kashmir. Kashmir is an integral part of India. From 1954 onwards elections are held, Chief Ministers are elected, there is elected governments at the state, Member of Parliaments are elected. What remains to be discussed is PoK that they should handover," said Naidu. While speaking in Islamabad on Monday, Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi said that Pakistan is ready for every kind of war, in the wake of simmering tensions in the region over India`s historic move to withdraw the special status to Jammu and Kashmir.

If anybody attacks us, we will give them reply they won't forget in lifetime: Venkaiah Naidu

At least 23 people were killed after a fire broke out in a bar in southern Mexico Tuesday night, NBC News reported.

The prosecutors said that the fire is likely caused by an attack.

Thirteen others were left seriously injured following the blaze in the southern port city of Coatzacoalcos, NBC said, citing a statement from the state attorney general's office.

The office condemned "what may constitute a malicious attack," it added.&nbsp;

Citing reports, The Los Angeles Times said Molotov cocktails had been thrown into the bar.

Images carried by local media showed a wrecked interior with chairs overturned and debris littering the floor, and emergency vehicles and police outside the building.&nbsp;

"The devious crime of a few moments ago in Coatzacoalcos will not go unpunished," the governor of Veracruz state said in a tweet. &nbsp;

Veracruz is one of the most violent regions of Mexico. Drug trafficking routes to the United States pass through it, and bloody battles frequently erupt between rival drug gangs.

At least 23 people were killed after a fire broke out in a bar in southern Mexico Tuesday night, NBC News reported. The prosecutors said that the fire is likely caused by an attack.

At least 23 people were killed after a fire broke out in a bar in southern Mexico Tuesday night, NBC News reported. The prosecutors said that the fire is likely caused by an attack. Thirteen others were left seriously injured following the blaze in the southern port city of Coatzacoalcos, NBC said, citing a statement from the state attorney general's office. The office condemned "what may constitute a malicious attack," it added. Citing reports, The Los Angeles Times said Molotov cocktails had been thrown into the bar. Images carried by local media showed a wrecked interior with chairs overturned and debris littering the floor, and emergency vehicles and police outside the building. "The devious crime of a few moments ago in Coatzacoalcos will not go unpunished," the governor of Veracruz state said in a tweet. Veracruz is one of the most violent regions of Mexico. Drug trafficking routes to the United States pass through it, and bloody battles frequently erupt between rival drug gangs.

At least 23 killed, 13 wounded in Mexico bar fire likely caused by 'attack': Prosecutors

The Taliban on Tuesday denounced as a sham a presidential election due next month, saying their fighters would do everything they could to block it, while urging people to stay away from rallies that could be attacked.

Instead of the September&nbsp;28 election, the Taliban said, the focus should be efforts to negotiate a deal with the United States that is expected to see a US&nbsp;commitment on the withdrawal of its troops in exchange for a Taliban promise the country will not be used to plot terrorist attacks.

"This election process is nothing more than a ploy to deceive the common people ... for satisfying the ego of a limited number of sham politicians," the Taliban said in a statement.

President Ashraf Ghani is widely expected to win a second term and has insisted the vote must go ahead as scheduled.

The US-trained former World Bank official came to power in 2014 after winning a bitterly disputed election marred by accusations of cheating.

The Taliban called for a boycott and said fighters would do all they could to block the vote.

"To prevent losses ... from being incurred by our fellow compatriots, they must stay away from gatherings and rallies that could become potential targets," the militants said.

Foreign backers of the election should focus on "ending the occupation of Afghanistan and establishing true peace so that ... the ongoing peace process in these critical moments is not sabotaged for a few figures", they added.

The US peace envoy leading talks with the Taliban, which are being held in Qatar, said on Monday excellent progress was being made in the talks on a four-part pact.

"Agreement on these details is essential," the envoy, Zalmay Khalilzad, said on Twitter. He did not elaborate.

The Taliban said they were expecting a positive outcome.

"Extraordinary progress has been made," said Suhail Shaheen, the spokesman for the Taliban political office in Qatar.

Shaheen said "a complete Islamic system" had been the goal over 40 years of war and the question of elections would be discussed in so-called intra-Afghan dialogue, which is meant to take place after a deal is struck with the United States.

Ghani and his government are not involved in the peace talks because the Taliban refuse to deal with a government they say is a US&nbsp;puppet.

Despite the talks, there has been no let-up in violence.

Four people were killed and 25 wounded in a bomb blast in the western city of Herat on Monday, provincial authorities said.

The Taliban on Tuesday denounced as a sham a presidential election due next month, saying their fighters would do everything they could to block it, while urging people to stay away from rallies that could be attacked.

The Taliban on Tuesday denounced as a sham a presidential election due next month, saying their fighters would do everything they could to block it, while urging people to stay away from rallies that could be attacked. Instead of the September 28 election, the Taliban said, the focus should be efforts to negotiate a deal with the United States that is expected to see a US commitment on the withdrawal of its troops in exchange for a Taliban promise the country will not be used to plot terrorist attacks. "This election process is nothing more than a ploy to deceive the common people ... for satisfying the ego of a limited number of sham politicians," the Taliban said in a statement. President Ashraf Ghani is widely expected to win a second term and has insisted the vote must go ahead as scheduled. The US-trained former World Bank official came to power in 2014 after winning a bitterly disputed election marred by accusations of cheating. The Taliban called for a boycott and said fighters would do all they could to block the vote. "To prevent losses ... from being incurred by our fellow compatriots, they must stay away from gatherings and rallies that could become potential targets," the militants said. Foreign backers of the election should focus on "ending the occupation of Afghanistan and establishing true peace so that ... the ongoing peace process in these critical moments is not sabotaged for a few figures", they added. The US peace envoy leading talks with the Taliban, which are being held in Qatar, said on Monday excellent progress was being made in the talks on a four-part pact. "Agreement on these details is essential," the envoy, Zalmay Khalilzad, said on Twitter. He did not elaborate. The Taliban said they were expecting a positive outcome. "Extraordinary progress has been made," said Suhail Shaheen, the spokesman for the Taliban political office in Qatar. Shaheen said "a complete Islamic system" had been the goal over 40 years of war and the question of elections would be discussed in so-called intra-Afghan dialogue, which is meant to take place after a deal is struck with the United States. Ghani and his government are not involved in the peace talks because the Taliban refuse to deal with a government they say is a US puppet. Despite the talks, there has been no let-up in violence. Four people were killed and 25 wounded in a bomb blast in the western city of Herat on Monday, provincial authorities said.

Taliban denounce Afghan election, warn rallies face attack

At least three police officers were killed and a dozen more wounded Saturday when a Taliban suicide bomber drove an explosives-packed, US-made armoured vehicle into a compound in eastern Afghanistan, officials said.

The pre-dawn blast took place as violence rages across Afghanistan, even though the US is leading a push for a peace deal with the Taliban, with a new round of talks expected in the coming days.

According to Aref Noori, the spokesman for Ghazni province, Saturday's attack targeted the police headquarters compound in Ghazni's Ab Band district.

"A Humvee vehicle was driven into the compound and blown up. Three police officers have been killed and 12 wounded," he told AFP, adding the vehicle had been captured from Afghan forces.

Ahmad Khan Sirat, the provincial police spokesman, told AFP the police headquarters building had also been partially damaged in the attack, which was claimed by the Taliban.

The attack came hours after another Taliban assault in Ghazni province late on Friday, this time in Khogyani district, which left at least three security forces dead including the district police chief, Noori said.

The Taliban have increased their attacks across the country at the peak of their "fighting season". The US, too, has stepped up air strikes this year.

On Thursday, a series of bombings in the capital Kabul claimed by the Taliban and the Islamic State group's Afghanistan branch killed at least 10 people and wounded scores more.

The bombings come as Zalmay Khalilzad, the US special envoy for peace in Afghanistan, is expected to resume a new round of talks with the Taliban in Doha.

At least three police officers were killed and a dozen more wounded Saturday when a Taliban suicide bomber drove an explosives-packed, US-made armoured vehicle into a compound in eastern Afghanistan, officials said.

At least three police officers were killed and a dozen more wounded Saturday when a Taliban suicide bomber drove an explosives-packed, US-made armoured vehicle into a compound in eastern Afghanistan, officials said. The pre-dawn blast took place as violence rages across Afghanistan, even though the US is leading a push for a peace deal with the Taliban, with a new round of talks expected in the coming days. According to Aref Noori, the spokesman for Ghazni province, Saturday's attack targeted the police headquarters compound in Ghazni's Ab Band district. "A Humvee vehicle was driven into the compound and blown up. Three police officers have been killed and 12 wounded," he told AFP, adding the vehicle had been captured from Afghan forces. Ahmad Khan Sirat, the provincial police spokesman, told AFP the police headquarters building had also been partially damaged in the attack, which was claimed by the Taliban. The attack came hours after another Taliban assault in Ghazni province late on Friday, this time in Khogyani district, which left at least three security forces dead including the district police chief, Noori said. The Taliban have increased their attacks across the country at the peak of their "fighting season". The US, too, has stepped up air strikes this year. On Thursday, a series of bombings in the capital Kabul claimed by the Taliban and the Islamic State group's Afghanistan branch killed at least 10 people and wounded scores more. The bombings come as Zalmay Khalilzad, the US special envoy for peace in Afghanistan, is expected to resume a new round of talks with the Taliban in Doha.

At least three killed in Taliban attack on police base

Taliban attacks police HQ in Kandahar as violence continues in Afghanistan. Violence continues to be the norm in Afghanistan amidst peace talks. Taliban attacked a police HQ in Kandahar yesterday. They also opened fire on policemen. Today a bomb attack killed 8 people in Kabul. Palki summarises.

Gravitas: Afghanistan: Peace talks amid more bloodshed

The path to peace in Afghanistan has been a bumpy ride. Acts of violence continue. So what is the status of the peace talks? What will the future look like for Afghanistan government, Taliban and the U.S.? Here's a report.

Gravitas: A bumpy road to Afghan peace

On #WionEdit, Palki analyses the Afghanistan peace talks and summarises the battle for power between the Taliban and the U.S. She also takes a look at what the future could look like for all the parties in Afghanistan.

WION Edit: Analysing the Afghanistan peace talks

At least 12 people were killed and scores more wounded Thursday when the Taliban attacked a police headquarters in the southern city of Kandahar, officials and the insurgents said.

The assault comes amid a series of peace talks between Washington and the Taliban that both sides say are making progress, but which so far have yielded no reduction in violence in the gruelling Afghan conflict.

Taliban spokesman Qari Yousuf Ahmadi said the afternoon attack in Afghanistan's second-largest city started with a car bomb, then saw gunmen storm the police compound.

"A number of mujahideen equipped with heavy and small arms breached the headquarters and launched their operations inside," he said.

Baheer Ahmadi, the Kandahar governor's spokesman, told AFP that 12 people had been killed, including nine civilians and three police officers. Another 89 were wounded, he added.

Police chief Tadin Khan said the car bomb was followed by two other explosions.

"The fighting is over now. Some vehicles were burnt. Now the Afghan army and US helicopters are hovering in the area," he told AFP.

Hayatullah Hayat, the provincial governor for Kandahar, said Afghan security forces had launched a "clean-up operation" to see if any attackers were remaining.

Pictures on social media showed a huge plume of smoke rising over Kandahar, and Hayat said about six trucks carrying commercial goods had burnt.&nbsp;

The assault comes just one day after two Afghan soldiers -- who were really Taliban operatives -- fatally shot an Afghan colonel in Ghazni province.

At least 12 people were killed and scores more wounded Thursday when the Taliban attacked a police headquarters in the southern city of Kandahar, officials and the insurgents said.

At least 12 people were killed and scores more wounded Thursday when the Taliban attacked a police headquarters in the southern city of Kandahar, officials and the insurgents said. The assault comes amid a series of peace talks between Washington and the Taliban that both sides say are making progress, but which so far have yielded no reduction in violence in the gruelling Afghan conflict. Taliban spokesman Qari Yousuf Ahmadi said the afternoon attack in Afghanistan's second-largest city started with a car bomb, then saw gunmen storm the police compound. "A number of mujahideen equipped with heavy and small arms breached the headquarters and launched their operations inside," he said. Baheer Ahmadi, the Kandahar governor's spokesman, told AFP that 12 people had been killed, including nine civilians and three police officers. Another 89 were wounded, he added. Police chief Tadin Khan said the car bomb was followed by two other explosions. "The fighting is over now. Some vehicles were burnt. Now the Afghan army and US helicopters are hovering in the area," he told AFP. Hayatullah Hayat, the provincial governor for Kandahar, said Afghan security forces had launched a "clean-up operation" to see if any attackers were remaining. Pictures on social media showed a huge plume of smoke rising over Kandahar, and Hayat said about six trucks carrying commercial goods had burnt. The assault comes just one day after two Afghan soldiers -- who were really Taliban operatives -- fatally shot an Afghan colonel in Ghazni province.

At least 12 dead in Taliban attack on Afghan police headquarters

Actor John Abraham is all set to star in another action-thriller, 'Attack'. 
 
Lakshya Raj Anand, who marks his directorial debut with the film, shared the news on his Instagram handle. 
 
"Months of intensive prep has led to this dream turning into a reality and I'm extremely grateful to John Abraham and Ajay Kapoor for making this happen as we embark on this journey together. Also a big special shoutout to Minnakshi Das, Sanyuktha Chawla Shaikh, JA Entertainment."

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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/Bz1nyiiBV3n/" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">Months of intensive prep has led to this dream turning into a reality and I’m extremely grateful to @thejohnabraham and @ajay_kapoor_ for making this happen as we embark on this journey together... Also a big special shoutout to @minnakshidas @sanyukthac @johnabrahament . . . Now it’s time to ATTACK - coming soon #film #attack #bollywood #director #actor #producer #johnabraham #action #comingsoon #featurefilm #wetakingover</a>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;">A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/lakshyarajanand/" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px;" target="_blank"> Lakshya Raj Anand</a> (@lakshyarajanand) on <time datetime="2019-07-13T01:04:47+00:00" style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;">Jul 12, 2019 at 6:04pm PDT</time>
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The film will be produced by Dheeraj Wadhawan, Ajay Kapoor and John's production house JA Entertainment and is expected to go on floors this December, Indian film critic and trade analyst Taran Adarsh shared on Twitter.

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John Abraham in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Attack?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Attack</a>... The action-thriller will be directed by debutant Lakshya Raj Anand... Produced by Dheeraj Wadhawan and Ajay Kapoor [Kyta Prod] and&nbsp;John Abraham [JA Ent]...&nbsp;The two production houses had collaborated on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Parmanu?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Parmanu</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RAW?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RAW</a>... Starts Dec 2019. <a href="https://t.co/7dowRpCQDP">pic.twitter.com/7dowRpCQDP</a>
— taran adarsh (@taran_adarsh) <a href="https://twitter.com/taran_adarsh/status/1149868717657866240?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 13, 2019</a></blockquote>
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John Abraham too shared his excitement on Twitter.

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..a hostage crisis..a Nation on its knees.. it's a race against time!! 
ATTACK - an action thriller inspired by true events, directed by debutant <a href="https://twitter.com/LakshyaRajAnand?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@LakshyaRajAnand</a>. Shoot begins Dec'19. Really excited!<a href="https://twitter.com/KytaProductions?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KytaProductions</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/johnabrahament?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@johnabrahament</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/ajay0701?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ajay0701</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DheerajWadhwan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DheerajWadhwan</a> <a href="https://t.co/aj03uqEeHF">pic.twitter.com/aj03uqEeHF</a>
— John Abraham (@TheJohnAbraham) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheJohnAbraham/status/1149932628394426374?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 13, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Currently, the actor is awaiting the release of his thriller drama <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/batla-house-trailer-john-abraham-plays-a-tough-cop-in-a-film-based-on-real-incident-234823">'Batla House'</a>&nbsp;where he will be seen playing the role of Sanjeev Kumar, who led the actual encounter in September 2008. 
 
The film is inspired by the operation that took place against Indian Mujahideen (IM) terrorists in Batla House locality in Jamia Nagar, Delhi. 
 
Helmed by Nikkhil Advani, and written by Ritesh Shah, the film will hit the big screens on August 15 (Independence Day).

Actor John Abraham is all set to star in another action-thriller, 'Attack'. Lakshya Raj Anand, who marks his directorial debut with the film, shared the news on his Instagram handle.

Actor John Abraham is all set to star in another action-thriller, 'Attack'. Lakshya Raj Anand, who marks his directorial debut with the film, shared the news on his Instagram handle. "Months of intensive prep has led to this dream turning into a reality and I'm extremely grateful to John Abraham and Ajay Kapoor for making this happen as we embark on this journey together. Also a big special shoutout to Minnakshi Das, Sanyuktha Chawla Shaikh, JA Entertainment." View this post on Instagram Months of intensive prep has led to this dream turning into a reality and I’m extremely grateful to @thejohnabraham and @ajay_kapoor_ for making this happen as we embark on this journey together... Also a big special shoutout to @minnakshidas @sanyukthac @johnabrahament . . . Now it’s time to ATTACK - coming soon #film #attack #bollywood #director #actor #producer #johnabraham #action #comingsoon #featurefilm #wetakingover A post shared by Lakshya Raj Anand (@lakshyarajanand) on Jul 12, 2019 at 6:04pm PDT × The film will be produced by Dheeraj Wadhawan, Ajay Kapoor and John's production house JA Entertainment and is expected to go on floors this December, Indian film critic and trade analyst Taran Adarsh shared on Twitter. John Abraham in #Attack... The action-thriller will be directed by debutant Lakshya Raj Anand... Produced by Dheeraj Wadhawan and Ajay Kapoor [Kyta Prod] and John Abraham [JA Ent]... The two production houses had collaborated on #Parmanu and #RAW... Starts Dec 2019. pic.twitter.com/7dowRpCQDP — taran adarsh (@taran_adarsh) July 13, 2019 × John Abraham too shared his excitement on Twitter. ..a hostage crisis..a Nation on its knees.. it's a race against time!! ATTACK - an action thriller inspired by true events, directed by debutant @LakshyaRajAnand. Shoot begins Dec'19. Really excited!@KytaProductions @johnabrahament @ajay0701 #DheerajWadhwan pic.twitter.com/aj03uqEeHF — John Abraham (@TheJohnAbraham) July 13, 2019 × Currently, the actor is awaiting the release of his thriller drama 'Batla House' where he will be seen playing the role of Sanjeev Kumar, who led the actual encounter in September 2008. The film is inspired by the operation that took place against Indian Mujahideen (IM) terrorists in Batla House locality in Jamia Nagar, Delhi. Helmed by Nikkhil Advani, and written by Ritesh Shah, the film will hit the big screens on August 15 (Independence Day).

John Abraham gears up for his next film 'Attack'

Taliban attacked government security compound in central Afghanistan on Sunday amid peace talks in Qatar. Watch this video to know more.

Attack amid Afghanistan peace talks in Qatar

A bomb blast at a Shi`ite Muslim mosque in eastern Baghdad wounded at least seven people on Friday, security sources said, correcting earlier reports of seven killed.

Police sources said on Friday a suicide belt or improvised explosive device had been used in the attack in the Baladiyat neighbourhood, for which there was no immediate claim of responsibility.&nbsp;

The toll was initially put at seven dead and more than 20 wounded. But police and other security sources said on Saturday the attackers had leaked false news of casualties through witnesses that police relied on for their reports.

An investigation had been launched, they said.&nbsp;

It was a rare attack on a Shi`ite place of worship in the Iraqi capital.

Sunni extremists carried out high-profile bombings of Iraqi Shi`ite sites during the worst of the country`s sectarian violence after the US invasion that toppled dictator Saddam Hussein in 2003.

Baghdad`s security improved significantly with the defeat of Islamic State in 2017 and bomb attacks of any kind in the city have been rare since then.

A bomb blast at a Shi`ite Muslim mosque in eastern Baghdad wounded at least seven people on Friday, security sources said, correcting earlier reports of seven killed.

A bomb blast at a Shi`ite Muslim mosque in eastern Baghdad wounded at least seven people on Friday, security sources said, correcting earlier reports of seven killed. Police sources said on Friday a suicide belt or improvised explosive device had been used in the attack in the Baladiyat neighbourhood, for which there was no immediate claim of responsibility. The toll was initially put at seven dead and more than 20 wounded. But police and other security sources said on Saturday the attackers had leaked false news of casualties through witnesses that police relied on for their reports. An investigation had been launched, they said. It was a rare attack on a Shi`ite place of worship in the Iraqi capital. Sunni extremists carried out high-profile bombings of Iraqi Shi`ite sites during the worst of the country`s sectarian violence after the US invasion that toppled dictator Saddam Hussein in 2003. Baghdad`s security improved significantly with the defeat of Islamic State in 2017 and bomb attacks of any kind in the city have been rare since then.

Friday blast at Shi'ite mosque in Baghdad wounds several: Police sources

US President Donald Trump blames Iran for Gulf of Oman oil tanker attack. Watch this video to know more.

U.S president blames Iran for tanker attack

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-three-blasts-hit-kabul-killing-one-and-injuring-17-223589">Two people were killed and dozens more wounded in Kabul</a> on Sunday as a wave of bombings hit civilian targets -- including a university school bus -- across the Afghan capital.

The yellow bus had been heading to Kabul Education University in the western part of the city Sunday morning when it was hit by a sticky bomb -- a growing menace in Kabul, where insurgents and criminals use magnets to slap explosives on vehicles.

The device had been placed under the bus, interior ministry spokesman Nasrat Rahimi said. In the immediate aftermath, as people rushed to help victims, two more bombs that had been planted by the side of the road went off, he added.&nbsp;

Among the wounded was an Afghan journalist who appeared to have been live-streaming the aftermath of the first explosion when he was hit in a secondary blast.

The Islamic State group claimed responsibility.

Initial reports said the bus was carrying university officials, but Kabul police spokesman Firdaws Faramarz later said students had been on board.

According to health ministry spokesman Wahidullah Mayar, two people were killed and 24 more wounded. Among those wounded were five Afghan security forces.

The journalist was expected to recover from his leg wounds. Last year, nine journalists including AFP Kabul's chief photographer Shah Marai were killed in a secondary explosion after rushing to the scene of an initial blast.

A fourth blast rocked Kabul later Sunday, when yet another sticky bomb hit a vehicle in the western part of the city. Initial reports said three people were wounded.

President Muhammad Ashraf Ghani condemned the attacks, saying the "enemy" cannot "weaken the faith of our people for a bright and progressive future of Afghanistan."

Afghanistan's IS affiliate, known IS-K, has claimed responsibility for a string of horrific bombings targeting numerous civilian, religious and political targets in recent years.

Watch: 3 explosions rocked Afghanistan's capital, 1killed

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Peace talks

The continued violence in Afghanistan comes even as the Taliban and the US are set to begin a new round of peace talks in Doha this month.

On Friday, a Taliban car bomber killed at least four Afghan civilians and lightly wounded four US troops in an attack on a US convoy in Kabul.

A day earlier, at least six people were killed and 16 more wounded in an IS-claimed suicide blast outside a military academy in the capital.

And eight Afghan police were killed Saturday and seven others wounded in a suicide attack in the eastern city of Ghazni, provincial police spokesman Ahmad Khan Seerat told AFP.

Ghani had proposed a nationwide ceasefire at the start of Ramadan early last month, but the Taliban rejected the offer.

Last year, the Taliban observed a three-day ceasefire over Eid and many Afghans -- exhausted by decades of war and violence -- had pinned their hopes on another truce this year.

Taliban head Haibatullah Akhundzada said Saturday there would be no "cold water" poured on the insurgents' military efforts.

Two people were killed and dozens more wounded in Kabul on Sunday as a wave of bombings hit civilian targets -- including a university school bus -- across the Afghan capital.

Two people were killed and dozens more wounded in Kabul on Sunday as a wave of bombings hit civilian targets -- including a university school bus -- across the Afghan capital. The yellow bus had been heading to Kabul Education University in the western part of the city Sunday morning when it was hit by a sticky bomb -- a growing menace in Kabul, where insurgents and criminals use magnets to slap explosives on vehicles. The device had been placed under the bus, interior ministry spokesman Nasrat Rahimi said. In the immediate aftermath, as people rushed to help victims, two more bombs that had been planted by the side of the road went off, he added. Among the wounded was an Afghan journalist who appeared to have been live-streaming the aftermath of the first explosion when he was hit in a secondary blast. The Islamic State group claimed responsibility. Initial reports said the bus was carrying university officials, but Kabul police spokesman Firdaws Faramarz later said students had been on board. According to health ministry spokesman Wahidullah Mayar, two people were killed and 24 more wounded. Among those wounded were five Afghan security forces. The journalist was expected to recover from his leg wounds. Last year, nine journalists including AFP Kabul's chief photographer Shah Marai were killed in a secondary explosion after rushing to the scene of an initial blast. A fourth blast rocked Kabul later Sunday, when yet another sticky bomb hit a vehicle in the western part of the city. Initial reports said three people were wounded. President Muhammad Ashraf Ghani condemned the attacks, saying the "enemy" cannot "weaken the faith of our people for a bright and progressive future of Afghanistan." Afghanistan's IS affiliate, known IS-K, has claimed responsibility for a string of horrific bombings targeting numerous civilian, religious and political targets in recent years. Watch: 3 explosions rocked Afghanistan's capital, 1killed × Peace talks The continued violence in Afghanistan comes even as the Taliban and the US are set to begin a new round of peace talks in Doha this month. On Friday, a Taliban car bomber killed at least four Afghan civilians and lightly wounded four US troops in an attack on a US convoy in Kabul. A day earlier, at least six people were killed and 16 more wounded in an IS-claimed suicide blast outside a military academy in the capital. And eight Afghan police were killed Saturday and seven others wounded in a suicide attack in the eastern city of Ghazni, provincial police spokesman Ahmad Khan Seerat told AFP. Ghani had proposed a nationwide ceasefire at the start of Ramadan early last month, but the Taliban rejected the offer. Last year, the Taliban observed a three-day ceasefire over Eid and many Afghans -- exhausted by decades of war and violence -- had pinned their hopes on another truce this year. Taliban head Haibatullah Akhundzada said Saturday there would be no "cold water" poured on the insurgents' military efforts.

Student bus targeted amid deadly wave of Kabul bombings

Witnesses described a chaotic scene in the immediate of a stabbing in a Japanese city on Tuesday. Two people were killed and 16 others were injured after a man attacked a group of schoolgirls waiting at a bus stop just outside Tokyo, before killing himself.

Witnesses describe stabbing attack in Japan

At least four civilians were killed, and 25 others wounded after suicide bombers attacked an aid agency in Afghanistan's capital of Kabul on Wednesday.

The Taliban claimed responsibility for the attack shortly after the deadly attack.

The five assailants were all killed during a counter-attack conducted by Afghan elite police forces that lasted nearly six hours.

The attack took place at midday when the attackers detonated an explosive-laden vehicle at the gates of non-governmental organisation Counterpart International in the Afghan capital. Following the blast, a plume of black smoke could be seen rising over the city.

Afghan security forces evacuated about 200 people from the targeted building and nearby offices, the Ministry of Interior Affairs said in a statement. The security forces reportedly seized another vehicle at the scene and defused the bombs.

The blast shattered windows even 200 meters away.

"After the explosion, huge clouds of dust rose in the air, and the debris was blown over to this area and the park. Then another blast happened and there were huge clouds of dust again. The security forces arrived after that," said Ramsh, a witness at the scene.

Afghan President Ashraf Ghani, UN mission in the country and Afghans strongly condemned the attack which occurred on the third day of Muslim's fasting month of Ramadan.

At least four civilians were killed, and 25 others wounded after suicide bombers attacked an aid agency in Afghanistan's capital of Kabul on Wednesday. The Taliban claimed responsibility for the attack shortly after the deadly attack.

At least four civilians were killed, and 25 others wounded after suicide bombers attacked an aid agency in Afghanistan's capital of Kabul on Wednesday. The Taliban claimed responsibility for the attack shortly after the deadly attack. The five assailants were all killed during a counter-attack conducted by Afghan elite police forces that lasted nearly six hours. The attack took place at midday when the attackers detonated an explosive-laden vehicle at the gates of non-governmental organisation Counterpart International in the Afghan capital. Following the blast, a plume of black smoke could be seen rising over the city. Afghan security forces evacuated about 200 people from the targeted building and nearby offices, the Ministry of Interior Affairs said in a statement. The security forces reportedly seized another vehicle at the scene and defused the bombs. The blast shattered windows even 200 meters away. "After the explosion, huge clouds of dust rose in the air, and the debris was blown over to this area and the park. Then another blast happened and there were huge clouds of dust again. The security forces arrived after that," said Ramsh, a witness at the scene. Afghan President Ashraf Ghani, UN mission in the country and Afghans strongly condemned the attack which occurred on the third day of Muslim's fasting month of Ramadan.

Taliban attack at NGO kills at least 9 in Kabul

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