Military conducts airstrikes in Tigray region as Ethiopias civil war gets worse. Thousands of people have been killed so far in the conflict, and several others have been forced to flee their homes.

Ethiopia's civil war: Military conducts airstrikes in Tigray

Myanmar is facing the alarming prospect of an escalating civil war as an uprising against the military junta widens, the UN's human rights chief warned on Thursday.

Michelle Bachelet told the United Nations Human Rights Council that time was running out for other countries to step up efforts to restore democracy and prevent a broader conflict.

Myanmar has been in turmoil since Aung San Suu Kyi's government was ousted by the military in February, sparking a nationwide uprising that the junta has tried to crush.

Attacks on troops have increased since lawmakers ousted by the generals called for a "people's defensive war" earlier this month.

Bachelet said the human rights situation had deteriorated significantly as the effects of the coup "devastate lives and hopes across the country".

"Conflict, poverty and the effects of the pandemic are sharply increasing, and the country faces a vortex of repression, violence and economic collapse," she said.

Faced with the "overwhelming repression of fundamental rights", the armed resistance movement was growing.

"These disturbing trends suggest the alarming possibility of an escalating civil war," she said.

Bachelet urged countries to support a political process that would engage all parties, saying the ASEAN regional bloc and influential powers should use incentives and disincentives "to reverse the military coup and desperate spiral of violence".

"Myanmar's stability and path to democracy and prosperity have been sacrificed over these last months to advance the ambitions of a privileged and entrenched military elite," she said.

"The national consequences are terrible and tragic -- the regional consequences could also be profound. The international community must redouble its efforts to restore democracy and prevent wider conflict before it is too late. "

Bachelet said more than 1,100 people had now reportedly died at the hands of the security forces since the coup, while over 8,000 others, including children, have been arrested and more than 4,700 are still in detention.

The former Chilean president urged all parties -- but especially the military -- to allow unrestricted access to humanitarian aid, and called for the immediate release of all political prisoners.

She called for all armed forces to protect civilians and said the use of air strikes and artillery in residential areas must cease immediately.

Myanmar is facing the alarming prospect of an escalating civil war as an uprising against the military junta widens, the UN's human rights chief warned on Thursday.

Myanmar is facing the alarming prospect of an escalating civil war as an uprising against the military junta widens, the UN's human rights chief warned on Thursday. Michelle Bachelet told the United Nations Human Rights Council that time was running out for other countries to step up efforts to restore democracy and prevent a broader conflict. Myanmar has been in turmoil since Aung San Suu Kyi's government was ousted by the military in February, sparking a nationwide uprising that the junta has tried to crush. Attacks on troops have increased since lawmakers ousted by the generals called for a "people's defensive war" earlier this month. Bachelet said the human rights situation had deteriorated significantly as the effects of the coup "devastate lives and hopes across the country". "Conflict, poverty and the effects of the pandemic are sharply increasing, and the country faces a vortex of repression, violence and economic collapse," she said. Faced with the "overwhelming repression of fundamental rights", the armed resistance movement was growing. "These disturbing trends suggest the alarming possibility of an escalating civil war," she said. Bachelet urged countries to support a political process that would engage all parties, saying the ASEAN regional bloc and influential powers should use incentives and disincentives "to reverse the military coup and desperate spiral of violence". "Myanmar's stability and path to democracy and prosperity have been sacrificed over these last months to advance the ambitions of a privileged and entrenched military elite," she said. "The national consequences are terrible and tragic -- the regional consequences could also be profound. The international community must redouble its efforts to restore democracy and prevent wider conflict before it is too late. " Bachelet said more than 1,100 people had now reportedly died at the hands of the security forces since the coup, while over 8,000 others, including children, have been arrested and more than 4,700 are still in detention. The former Chilean president urged all parties -- but especially the military -- to allow unrestricted access to humanitarian aid, and called for the immediate release of all political prisoners. She called for all armed forces to protect civilians and said the use of air strikes and artillery in residential areas must cease immediately.

Myanmar facing 'alarming' risk of escalating civil war: UN rights chief

Calling on the Taliban to form an inclusive government in Afghanistan, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Tuesday warned that the failure to do so may lead to a civil war in the neighbouring country and turn into an "ideal place" for terrorists. &nbsp;

The PM also said that preventing women from accessing education in Afghanistan would be un-Islamic.

Watch:

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In an interview to the BBC, Khan said, "If they do not include all the factions, sooner or later they will have a civil war. That would mean an unstable, chaotic, Afghanistan and an ideal place for terrorists. That is a worry." &nbsp;&nbsp;

The leader had earlier tweeted that he has 'initiated a dialogue' with the Taliban for an inclusive Afghanistan government having Tajiks, Hazaras and Uzbeks. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-announce-expansion-to-interim-cabinet-fail-to-include-women-again-despite-outcry-414741" hreflang="en">Taliban&nbsp;announce expansion to&nbsp;interim Cabinet, fail to include women again despite outcry</a>

On being asked whether the Taliban would meet the criteria for formal recognition, he called on the international community to give the group more time. &nbsp;

"It's just too early to say anything," Pakistan PM said, adding that he expected Afghan women to eventually "assert their rights".

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/in-first-address-at-un-general-assembly-2021-us-president-joe-biden-says-ended-afghan-war-to-enter-new-era-of-diplomacy-414726" hreflang="en">In first address at UN General Assembly 2021, US President Joe Biden says ended Afghan war to enter new era of diplomacy &nbsp;</a>&nbsp;

In the interaction, the leader laid out the conditions that would need to be met for Pakistan to formally recognise the new Taliban government, the BBC reported. &nbsp;

"All neighbours will get together and see how they progress. Whether to recognise them or not will be a collective decision,” he said. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Calling on the Taliban to form an inclusive government in Afghanistan, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Tuesday warned that the failure to do so may lead to a civil war in the neighbouring country and turn into an "ideal place" for terrorists.

Calling on the Taliban to form an inclusive government in Afghanistan, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Tuesday warned that the failure to do so may lead to a civil war in the neighbouring country and turn into an "ideal place" for terrorists. The PM also said that preventing women from accessing education in Afghanistan would be un-Islamic. Watch: × In an interview to the BBC, Khan said, "If they do not include all the factions, sooner or later they will have a civil war. That would mean an unstable, chaotic, Afghanistan and an ideal place for terrorists. That is a worry." The leader had earlier tweeted that he has 'initiated a dialogue' with the Taliban for an inclusive Afghanistan government having Tajiks, Hazaras and Uzbeks. Also Read: Taliban announce expansion to interim Cabinet, fail to include women again despite outcry On being asked whether the Taliban would meet the criteria for formal recognition, he called on the international community to give the group more time. "It's just too early to say anything," Pakistan PM said, adding that he expected Afghan women to eventually "assert their rights". Also Read: In first address at UN General Assembly 2021, US President Joe Biden says ended Afghan war to enter new era of diplomacy In the interaction, the leader laid out the conditions that would need to be met for Pakistan to formally recognise the new Taliban government, the BBC reported. "All neighbours will get together and see how they progress. Whether to recognise them or not will be a collective decision,” he said. (With inputs from agencies)

Failure to form inclusive Afghan govt may result in civil war, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan warns Taliban

The top Unites States Army General, Mark Milley, has warned of an imminent civil war in Afghanistan, saying that the conditions are ripe for the “resurgence of terrorist groups” in the country.

The chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff said if the Taliban cannot consolidate power, then al Qaeda and the Islamic State will most likely take control of the region.

“My military estimate... is that the conditions are likely to develop of a civil war,” Milley told Fox News.

He raised doubts whether the Taliban, who are yet to declare a government, would be able to consolidate power and establish effective governance in the region.

"I think there's at least a very good probability of a broader civil war and that will then, in turn, lead to conditions that could, in fact, lead to a reconstitution of al-Qaida or a growth of ISIS or other ... terrorist groups," Milley said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/genocide-in-making-afghan-ex-vp-calls-on-un-to-end-talibans-onslaught-into-panjshir-province-410875">'Genocide in making': Afghan ex-VP calls on UN to end 'Taliban’s onslaught into Panjshir province'</a>

Giving a bleak assessment of what could transpire in the upcoming months, he said, “The conditions are very likely that you could see a resurgence of terrorism coming out of that general region within 12, 24, 36 months.”

The comments from the top military officer come even as the Taliban and the resistance forces are battling to control the Panjshir Valley north of Kabul, the last Afghan province resisting the&nbsp;Islamist group.

Watch

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There have been reports that 600 Taliban have been killed in Panjshir Valley while more than 1,000 Taliban have been captured. This comes after the Taliban claimed victory over the region.

A Taliban source said fighting was continuing in Panjshir but the advance had been slowed by landmines placed on the road to the capital Bazarak and the provincial governor's compound, reported Al Jazeera.

(With inputs from agencies)

The top Unites States Army General, Mark Milley, has warned of an imminent civil war in Afghanistan, saying that the conditions are ripe for the “resurgence of terrorist groups” in the country.

The top Unites States Army General, Mark Milley, has warned of an imminent civil war in Afghanistan, saying that the conditions are ripe for the “resurgence of terrorist groups” in the country. The chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff said if the Taliban cannot consolidate power, then al Qaeda and the Islamic State will most likely take control of the region. “My military estimate... is that the conditions are likely to develop of a civil war,” Milley told Fox News. He raised doubts whether the Taliban, who are yet to declare a government, would be able to consolidate power and establish effective governance in the region. "I think there's at least a very good probability of a broader civil war and that will then, in turn, lead to conditions that could, in fact, lead to a reconstitution of al-Qaida or a growth of ISIS or other ... terrorist groups," Milley said. Also read | 'Genocide in making': Afghan ex-VP calls on UN to end 'Taliban’s onslaught into Panjshir province' Giving a bleak assessment of what could transpire in the upcoming months, he said, “The conditions are very likely that you could see a resurgence of terrorism coming out of that general region within 12, 24, 36 months.” The comments from the top military officer come even as the Taliban and the resistance forces are battling to control the Panjshir Valley north of Kabul, the last Afghan province resisting the Islamist group. Watch There have been reports that 600 Taliban have been killed in Panjshir Valley while more than 1,000 Taliban have been captured. This comes after the Taliban claimed victory over the region. A Taliban source said fighting was continuing in Panjshir but the advance had been slowed by landmines placed on the road to the capital Bazarak and the provincial governor's compound, reported Al Jazeera. (With inputs from agencies)

Afghanistan: Top US General warns of civil war, says al Qaeda, ISIS may grow

Less than 24 hours are left before the deadline of 31st August 2021 will end. Taliban has issued strict warning that things may take an ugly turn if deadline is not met. While most of the countries have concluded their evacuation operations, US Forces are struggling to complete it and as on 30th August 2021, they not only handed over the outer perimeter security of Kabul Airport to Taliban but also destroyed all their material and equipment not feasible to be taken out.

A non-stop plan of airlifting all the men is underway. A contingent of over 1200 Taliban fighters is ready to take over the entire Kabul Airport and simultaneously their leaders are contacting foreign agencies to help them run the Airport since Taliban fighters are technically not competent to do so.

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&nbsp;

While we talk about it, the biggest question appears before us is the future of Afghanistan after 31st August 2021 when there will be no support forces in Afghanistan and the country will be at the mercy of God. There are several aspects that cannot be ignored and must be taken into consideration when thinking of the destiny of Afghanistan.&nbsp;

Absence of a proper government

Although Taliban has occupied large tracts of the country, they are still far off from forming a legitimate government. They are known to be a terrorist group and many of their leaders are in the most wanted list of United Nations. So far hardly any country has given them recognition as a government and hence they are trying to rule the country with the help of guns. On the other hand, there is a resistance movement taking place in Panjshir Valley where the vice president of Afghanistan Mr Amrullah Saleh has declared himself as caretaker president. Technically as per the constitution of Afghanistan, he is right and hence gathering his Tajik fighters in formidable Panjshir valley where clashes with Taliban are already going on. In such situation, the government is unstable and in case resistance forces can take over the reins of Kabul, things may take a different turn altogether. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Cash starved economy- Threat of narco-terrorism

While USA has frozen all the monetary assets of Afghanistan, other organisations like IMF and World Bank have refused to release any money to Afghanistan. With no cash available in a war-torn economy, things are going to turn bad post 31st August 2021. Taliban wants money to pay its fighters, expenditure on war and to create its propaganda machine in the country. With a situation near bankruptcy, there is a big threat looming as to how mandatory expenditures will be paid in Afghanistan. Taliban is known to promote narco-terrorism and a major part of its revenue comes from opium cultivation. With no money coming to the country, drugs will remain the only source of money and in such situation, things are likely to take a turn not only for Afghanistan but for entire of the world.&nbsp;

Difficulties in providing humanitarian aid

Whole world is doubtful of the credibility of Taliban who are known to be terrorist supporters. Prior to 31st August 2021, several organisations including International Red Cross were actively working in Afghanistan but presently none of them is ready to work due to the fear of their own security. Taliban has also not given any assurance of security to international organisations. In such situation, it is difficult for a country which is fighting a war for over five decades to survive. So far, Taliban has not come up with any plan to provide basic amenities for its citizen too. Many people are already suffering due to issues related to health, hygiene, malnutrition, and drug abuse and in the situation where third wave of COVID19 is expected anytime, future is extremely dark.&nbsp;

Ultra-fanatic attitude of Taliban&nbsp;

Taliban are not fit to rule any country. They are primarily religious scholars who were taught ultra-fanatic form of Islam since childhood. They are brainwashed to be brutal fighters. Governing a country is totally different and needs an empathetic attitude. Taliban has already forced sharia law in the country and scrapped the constitution of Afghanistan. Their most brutal and stringent forms of medieval laws are a curse to humanity. Furthermore, their control over every department of country and run it as per their own laws is going to create problems. There are no rights to women and children. Male patriarchy is at top, and anyone can be punished at the call of religious leaders. Such things are not relevant in today’s time but since Taliban is hell bent to implement it, people of Afghanistan are certainly going to suffer due to lunatic attitude of Taliban.&nbsp;

Safety of citizens

The biggest threat post 31st August 2021 is the safety of Afghan citizens. People have very ugly memories of previous Taliban rule in Afghanistan. When they entered Kabul in 1996, mass executions happened. Anyone with the slightest of doubt was killed mercilessly on streets and women were stoned to death. Presently when Taliban have access to entire database of the people who helped American forces against them, targeted killings have already started. We heard that Taliban are carrying out door-to-door searches in all major cities of Afghanistan and killing people at their will. After another 24 hours, there will be no one to control them and a bloodbath in Afghanistan is on cards.&nbsp;

Refugee crisis – Breeding grounds for terrorists

UN-related organisations have predicted that more than 5-6 million refugees will migrate to nearby countries due to the ongoing crisis. Arranging basic amenities for these people is a big task especially with the fact that there is limited scope for humanitarian organisations. We must remember that Taliban was born from the colonies of the refugees who migrated to Pakistan during Soviet-Afghan war. These colonies were the breeding grounds of terrorists who went to the middle east, India (Jammu and Kashmir), Europe, Chechnya, Serbia and many other countries to fight. &nbsp;At this time when the number of refugees is much larger, it is extremely difficult to predict as to which monster are they going to create in future.&nbsp;

Threat of terrorist groups other than Taliban&nbsp;

Islamic State- Khorasan has already made an entry in the peace process by bombing Kabul Airport on 26th August and firing rockets at it on 30th August 2021. They are most brutal of all and consider anyone who defies their ideology as enemy even if he is a Muslim. Similarly, there are other groups like Al-Qaeda, Haqqani Network, Tehrik-E-Taliban, Lashkar-E-Tayyeba, Hezb-E-Islami, Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan and East Turkestan Islamic Movement present in Afghanistan. These groups are looking for the right opportunity to strike. With the present situation, any action by these groups is going to bring catastrophe to the country.&nbsp;

Warlords- Threat of a civil war

Afghanistan’s politics had been dependent upon warlords who live a lavish lifestyle at the cost of common people. These warlords keep an army of armed soldiers and are very much possessive about their territories. They get support from their respective tribes and have been influencing day-to-day life in Afghanistan. Taliban advance has pushed most of these warlords away from their lands while some of them have joined the Taliban way of governance. As we saw in the past, these warlords are not going to sit silent and will strike back at a moment of their choice. While this will be a fight between Taliban and the warlords, ultimate sufferer will be the common Afghani citizen.

Role of Pakistan in destabilising Afghanistan&nbsp;

Over the last five decades, if we see the sole reason behind all the disturbances in Afghanistan, only one name comes to mind and that is Pakistan. They created a force to destabilise Sardar Mohammad Daud Khan in 1974 and then led US-led operations in Afghanistan for over a decade. They were the ones who controlled majority of the warlords including “Buther of the Kabul”- Gulbuddin Hekmatyar and they were the ones who created Taliban. A significantly large number of global terrorists were from Pakistan which is evident from just one fact that at one point of time, more than 40% detainees in Guantanamo Bay detention facility were Pakistani citizens. The plot of 9/11 was hatched in Pakistan and the most wanted terrorist of the world, Osama Bin Laden was enjoying safe haven in the proximity of a military cantonment in Pakistan only. Nothing is predictable with a country that preaches terrorism as a state policy. The proximity of Pakistani intelligence agency ISI with Taliban and other terror groups like ISIS-K is not a secret anymore. Pakistan’s past actions proved that it is going to continue its activities and will not let peace prevail in Afghanistan.&nbsp;

There are many questions and although we are quite close to midnight of 31st August 2021 when the bell will ring and the land of Gandhara will be left at the mercy of God, the indications and past experiences are pointing out to a major catastrophe in Afghanistan. Nothing can be predicted about the future since all our guesses have proved wrong. Only time has the answers hidden deep into its pockets. We can only pray and assume that things improve and there is normalcy in Afghanistan at the earliest.&nbsp;

(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

Less than 24 hours are left before the deadline of 31st August 2021 will end. Taliban has issued strict warning that things may take an ugly turn if deadline is not met.

Less than 24 hours are left before the deadline of 31st August 2021 will end. Taliban has issued strict warning that things may take an ugly turn if deadline is not met. While most of the countries have concluded their evacuation operations, US Forces are struggling to complete it and as on 30th August 2021, they not only handed over the outer perimeter security of Kabul Airport to Taliban but also destroyed all their material and equipment not feasible to be taken out. A non-stop plan of airlifting all the men is underway. A contingent of over 1200 Taliban fighters is ready to take over the entire Kabul Airport and simultaneously their leaders are contacting foreign agencies to help them run the Airport since Taliban fighters are technically not competent to do so. × While we talk about it, the biggest question appears before us is the future of Afghanistan after 31st August 2021 when there will be no support forces in Afghanistan and the country will be at the mercy of God. There are several aspects that cannot be ignored and must be taken into consideration when thinking of the destiny of Afghanistan. Absence of a proper government Although Taliban has occupied large tracts of the country, they are still far off from forming a legitimate government. They are known to be a terrorist group and many of their leaders are in the most wanted list of United Nations. So far hardly any country has given them recognition as a government and hence they are trying to rule the country with the help of guns. On the other hand, there is a resistance movement taking place in Panjshir Valley where the vice president of Afghanistan Mr Amrullah Saleh has declared himself as caretaker president. Technically as per the constitution of Afghanistan, he is right and hence gathering his Tajik fighters in formidable Panjshir valley where clashes with Taliban are already going on. In such situation, the government is unstable and in case resistance forces can take over the reins of Kabul, things may take a different turn altogether. Cash starved economy- Threat of narco-terrorism While USA has frozen all the monetary assets of Afghanistan, other organisations like IMF and World Bank have refused to release any money to Afghanistan. With no cash available in a war-torn economy, things are going to turn bad post 31st August 2021. Taliban wants money to pay its fighters, expenditure on war and to create its propaganda machine in the country. With a situation near bankruptcy, there is a big threat looming as to how mandatory expenditures will be paid in Afghanistan. Taliban is known to promote narco-terrorism and a major part of its revenue comes from opium cultivation. With no money coming to the country, drugs will remain the only source of money and in such situation, things are likely to take a turn not only for Afghanistan but for entire of the world. Difficulties in providing humanitarian aid Whole world is doubtful of the credibility of Taliban who are known to be terrorist supporters. Prior to 31st August 2021, several organisations including International Red Cross were actively working in Afghanistan but presently none of them is ready to work due to the fear of their own security. Taliban has also not given any assurance of security to international organisations. In such situation, it is difficult for a country which is fighting a war for over five decades to survive. So far, Taliban has not come up with any plan to provide basic amenities for its citizen too. Many people are already suffering due to issues related to health, hygiene, malnutrition, and drug abuse and in the situation where third wave of COVID19 is expected anytime, future is extremely dark. Ultra-fanatic attitude of Taliban Taliban are not fit to rule any country. They are primarily religious scholars who were taught ultra-fanatic form of Islam since childhood. They are brainwashed to be brutal fighters. Governing a country is totally different and needs an empathetic attitude. Taliban has already forced sharia law in the country and scrapped the constitution of Afghanistan. Their most brutal and stringent forms of medieval laws are a curse to humanity. Furthermore, their control over every department of country and run it as per their own laws is going to create problems. There are no rights to women and children. Male patriarchy is at top, and anyone can be punished at the call of religious leaders. Such things are not relevant in today’s time but since Taliban is hell bent to implement it, people of Afghanistan are certainly going to suffer due to lunatic attitude of Taliban. Safety of citizens The biggest threat post 31st August 2021 is the safety of Afghan citizens. People have very ugly memories of previous Taliban rule in Afghanistan. When they entered Kabul in 1996, mass executions happened. Anyone with the slightest of doubt was killed mercilessly on streets and women were stoned to death. Presently when Taliban have access to entire database of the people who helped American forces against them, targeted killings have already started. We heard that Taliban are carrying out door-to-door searches in all major cities of Afghanistan and killing people at their will. After another 24 hours, there will be no one to control them and a bloodbath in Afghanistan is on cards. Refugee crisis – Breeding grounds for terrorists UN-related organisations have predicted that more than 5-6 million refugees will migrate to nearby countries due to the ongoing crisis. Arranging basic amenities for these people is a big task especially with the fact that there is limited scope for humanitarian organisations. We must remember that Taliban was born from the colonies of the refugees who migrated to Pakistan during Soviet-Afghan war. These colonies were the breeding grounds of terrorists who went to the middle east, India (Jammu and Kashmir), Europe, Chechnya, Serbia and many other countries to fight. At this time when the number of refugees is much larger, it is extremely difficult to predict as to which monster are they going to create in future. Threat of terrorist groups other than Taliban Islamic State- Khorasan has already made an entry in the peace process by bombing Kabul Airport on 26th August and firing rockets at it on 30th August 2021. They are most brutal of all and consider anyone who defies their ideology as enemy even if he is a Muslim. Similarly, there are other groups like Al-Qaeda, Haqqani Network, Tehrik-E-Taliban, Lashkar-E-Tayyeba, Hezb-E-Islami, Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan and East Turkestan Islamic Movement present in Afghanistan. These groups are looking for the right opportunity to strike. With the present situation, any action by these groups is going to bring catastrophe to the country. Warlords- Threat of a civil war Afghanistan’s politics had been dependent upon warlords who live a lavish lifestyle at the cost of common people. These warlords keep an army of armed soldiers and are very much possessive about their territories. They get support from their respective tribes and have been influencing day-to-day life in Afghanistan. Taliban advance has pushed most of these warlords away from their lands while some of them have joined the Taliban way of governance. As we saw in the past, these warlords are not going to sit silent and will strike back at a moment of their choice. While this will be a fight between Taliban and the warlords, ultimate sufferer will be the common Afghani citizen. Role of Pakistan in destabilising Afghanistan Over the last five decades, if we see the sole reason behind all the disturbances in Afghanistan, only one name comes to mind and that is Pakistan. They created a force to destabilise Sardar Mohammad Daud Khan in 1974 and then led US-led operations in Afghanistan for over a decade. They were the ones who controlled majority of the warlords including “Buther of the Kabul”- Gulbuddin Hekmatyar and they were the ones who created Taliban. A significantly large number of global terrorists were from Pakistan which is evident from just one fact that at one point of time, more than 40% detainees in Guantanamo Bay detention facility were Pakistani citizens. The plot of 9/11 was hatched in Pakistan and the most wanted terrorist of the world, Osama Bin Laden was enjoying safe haven in the proximity of a military cantonment in Pakistan only. Nothing is predictable with a country that preaches terrorism as a state policy. The proximity of Pakistani intelligence agency ISI with Taliban and other terror groups like ISIS-K is not a secret anymore. Pakistan’s past actions proved that it is going to continue its activities and will not let peace prevail in Afghanistan. There are many questions and although we are quite close to midnight of 31st August 2021 when the bell will ring and the land of Gandhara will be left at the mercy of God, the indications and past experiences are pointing out to a major catastrophe in Afghanistan. Nothing can be predicted about the future since all our guesses have proved wrong. Only time has the answers hidden deep into its pockets. We can only pray and assume that things improve and there is normalcy in Afghanistan at the earliest. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

Opinion | What lies on the other side of the red line in Afghanistan?

Children in rural Colombia are being taught by the non-profit organization Halo Trust how to identify anti-personnel mines near their communities. During the country's civil war, landmines were placed by armed groups throughout conflict zones.

Colombian children learn to identify landmines buried during their country's long civil war

There were cheers from onlookers as a statue of a Confederate general was removed from its pedestal in front of a city hall in south Louisiana, after nearly a century.

Confederate generals are those who fought alongside pro-slavery South during the American Civil War in the 19th century. The Confederacy was defeated in the civil war.

The statue of confederate general Alfred Mouton stood for 99 years before it was removed on Saturday.

"The Confederacy has surrendered," an attorney was quoted as saying by The Advocate.&nbsp;

Although the pro-slavery forces were defeated by the Union forces, the Confederacy still has sympathisers in the US and in southern states, there still are pockets in which Confederacy and the thought are considered part of American 'heritage'.

The full name of General Mouton was Jean-Jacques-Alfred-Alexandre Mouton. He was a slave owner and son of Governor of Louisiana. Mouton was killed leading a cavalry charge in the Civil War Battle of Mansfield.

There were cheers from onlookers as a statue of a Confederate general was removed from its pedestal in front of a city hall in south Louisiana, after nearly a century.

There were cheers from onlookers as a statue of a Confederate general was removed from its pedestal in front of a city hall in south Louisiana, after nearly a century. Confederate generals are those who fought alongside pro-slavery South during the American Civil War in the 19th century. The Confederacy was defeated in the civil war. The statue of confederate general Alfred Mouton stood for 99 years before it was removed on Saturday. "The Confederacy has surrendered," an attorney was quoted as saying by The Advocate. Although the pro-slavery forces were defeated by the Union forces, the Confederacy still has sympathisers in the US and in southern states, there still are pockets in which Confederacy and the thought are considered part of American 'heritage'. The full name of General Mouton was Jean-Jacques-Alfred-Alexandre Mouton. He was a slave owner and son of Governor of Louisiana. Mouton was killed leading a cavalry charge in the Civil War Battle of Mansfield.

Statue of Confederate general removed in Louisiana

Tigrayan rebel forces have launched a new offensive in the conflict-torn northern region of Ethiopia and seized a major town, a spokesman told AFP on Tuesday.

The claims come two weeks after the Ethiopian government declared a unilateral ceasefire in the face of major advances by the Tigray Defences Forces.

"Yesterday we launched an offensive in (the southern region of) Raya and were able to absolutely rout federal defence forces and Amhara special forces divisions," said Getachew Reda, spokesman for the Tigrayan rebels.

"We have been able to secure most of southern Tigray including Korem and Alamata (the main town in the area)."

He said fighting was also taking place in western Tigray.&nbsp;

The claims could not be independently confirmed and an Ethiopian military spokesman did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Tigrayan rebel forces have launched a new offensive in the conflict-torn northern region of Ethiopia and seized a major town, a spokesman told AFP on Tuesday. The claims come two weeks after the Ethiopian government declared a unilateral ceasefire in the face of major advances by the Tigray Defences Forces.

Tigrayan rebel forces have launched a new offensive in the conflict-torn northern region of Ethiopia and seized a major town, a spokesman told AFP on Tuesday. The claims come two weeks after the Ethiopian government declared a unilateral ceasefire in the face of major advances by the Tigray Defences Forces. "Yesterday we launched an offensive in (the southern region of) Raya and were able to absolutely rout federal defence forces and Amhara special forces divisions," said Getachew Reda, spokesman for the Tigrayan rebels. "We have been able to secure most of southern Tigray including Korem and Alamata (the main town in the area)." He said fighting was also taking place in western Tigray. The claims could not be independently confirmed and an Ethiopian military spokesman did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Rebel forces in Ethiopia's Tigray launch new offensive, seize town: Spokesman

Cambodia has deployed its next generation of rat recruits to sniff out landmines as part of efforts to boost de-mining operations in a country plagued for decades by unexploded ordnance (UXO). 
 
Twenty African giant pouched rats were recently imported from Tanzania and have undergone intense training. 
 
"They are all easy to work with and they don't care about, who their handlers are," said handler So Malen, during an exercise on Friday for seven recruits in Preah Vihear province, bordering Thailand. 
 
"Any one of us can be their handler and most importantly, they don't bite." 
 
Scarred by decades of civil war, Cambodia is one of the world's most heavily landmined countries, with more than 1,000 sq km (621 sq miles) of land still contaminated. 
 
It has among the highest number of amputees per capita, with more than 40,000 people losing limbs to explosives. 
 
The new rat batch replaces a recently retired group that includes Magawa, who found 71 landmines and 38 UXO during his five-year career, according to APOPO, an international organisation that specialises in using rats to detect landmines and tuberculosis. 
 
Magawa received a gold medal last year from Britain's People's Dispensary for Sick Animals for 'lifesaving bravery and devotion to duty'. 
 
Handler So Malen said the rats have an extraordinary sense of smell that guarantees results, and that all that separated them was their work rate. 
 
"The small difference is that Magawa is a hero rat, who worked faster than others," So Malen said. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Cambodia has deployed its next generation of rat recruits to sniff out landmines as part of efforts to boost de-mining operations in a country plagued for decades by unexploded ordnance (UXO).

Cambodia has deployed its next generation of rat recruits to sniff out landmines as part of efforts to boost de-mining operations in a country plagued for decades by unexploded ordnance (UXO). Twenty African giant pouched rats were recently imported from Tanzania and have undergone intense training. "They are all easy to work with and they don't care about, who their handlers are," said handler So Malen, during an exercise on Friday for seven recruits in Preah Vihear province, bordering Thailand. "Any one of us can be their handler and most importantly, they don't bite." Scarred by decades of civil war, Cambodia is one of the world's most heavily landmined countries, with more than 1,000 sq km (621 sq miles) of land still contaminated. It has among the highest number of amputees per capita, with more than 40,000 people losing limbs to explosives. The new rat batch replaces a recently retired group that includes Magawa, who found 71 landmines and 38 UXO during his five-year career, according to APOPO, an international organisation that specialises in using rats to detect landmines and tuberculosis. Magawa received a gold medal last year from Britain's People's Dispensary for Sick Animals for 'lifesaving bravery and devotion to duty'. Handler So Malen said the rats have an extraordinary sense of smell that guarantees results, and that all that separated them was their work rate. "The small difference is that Magawa is a hero rat, who worked faster than others," So Malen said. (With inputs from agencies)

Cambodia deploys new batch of rat recruits to sniff out landmines

Pope Francis said Sunday he would invite Lebanon's Christian leaders to the Vatican on July 1 to reflect and pray for "peace and stability" in the stricken Middle Eastern nation.

Lebanon is in the throes of a double economic and political crisis.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/protests-in-lebanon-over-economic-crisis-political-deadlock-368865">Protests in Lebanon over economic crisis, political deadlock</a>

It is experiencing its worst financial downturn since the 1975-1990 civil war, with more than half the population now living below the poverty line.

Meanwhile, bickering political leaders have yet to agree on a new government to replace the outgoing cabinet of caretaker prime minister Hassan Diab who resigned in the wake of last summer's deadly port explosion.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/caretaker-pm-threatens-to-stop-running-government-in-lebanon-368500">Caretaker PM threatens to stop running government in Lebanon</a>

"On July 1 I will meet in the Vatican with the main leaders of the Christian communities in Lebanon, for a day of reflection on the country's worrying situation and to pray together for the gift of peace and stability", the pope said.

Delivering his Sunday Angelus message, Francis urged the faithful "to accompany the preparation of this event with solidarity prayers, invoking a more peaceful future for that beloved country".&nbsp;

Pope Francis said Sunday he would invite Lebanon's Christian leaders to the Vatican on July 1 to reflect and pray for "peace and stability" in the stricken Middle Eastern nation.

Pope Francis said Sunday he would invite Lebanon's Christian leaders to the Vatican on July 1 to reflect and pray for "peace and stability" in the stricken Middle Eastern nation. Lebanon is in the throes of a double economic and political crisis. Also Read | Protests in Lebanon over economic crisis, political deadlock It is experiencing its worst financial downturn since the 1975-1990 civil war, with more than half the population now living below the poverty line. Meanwhile, bickering political leaders have yet to agree on a new government to replace the outgoing cabinet of caretaker prime minister Hassan Diab who resigned in the wake of last summer's deadly port explosion. Also Read | Caretaker PM threatens to stop running government in Lebanon "On July 1 I will meet in the Vatican with the main leaders of the Christian communities in Lebanon, for a day of reflection on the country's worrying situation and to pray together for the gift of peace and stability", the pope said. Delivering his Sunday Angelus message, Francis urged the faithful "to accompany the preparation of this event with solidarity prayers, invoking a more peaceful future for that beloved country".

Pope to host July 1 summit with Lebanon's Christian leaders

The clashes in Israel have turned into an ethnic conflict. It's no longer just Hamas vs Israel. It's now Jews vs Arabs with lynching attempts being reported from both sides. Palki Sharma gets you a report.

Gravitas: Civil war in Israel

Israel's president warned of a civil war between the country's Arabs and Jews as fury and fear over shelling exchanges with Palestinian militants in Gaza ignited violence in Israel's streets.

Israeli President Netanyahu warns of civil war as Jews, Arabs clash over Gaza violence

After France promised legal action against soldiers who had signed a letter warning of civil war in the country, a new letter echoing the same sentiment has come to light. At least 75,000 people have signed another letter foretelling a civil war in the country due to the “concessions” given to Islamism under the current government.

The message was published in a right-wing magazine and said that “it is about the survival of our country”.&nbsp; The current letter, like the last one was backed by soldiers. This time, they did it anonymously, after which it received public support.

The recent letter was published by Valuers Actuelles on Sunday. It claims that the letter was signed by members of the military, which remains unclear.&nbsp;The authors of this letter claim to have served in Afghanistan, Mali and the Central African Republic - signifying they’re part of the younger forces.

"They gave their skin to destroy the Islamism to which you are giving concessions on our soil," the message read. In addition, the message criticised French leaders for chiding leaders who had participated in the last letter.

"If a civil war breaks out, the army will maintain order on its own soil," the letter said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/french-soldiers-to-face-military-sanctions-over-warning-of-civil-war-381578" hreflang="en">French soldiers to face military sanctions over warning of 'civil war'</a>

The previous letter was signed by 1,000 active soldiers including both men and women in April. In&nbsp;addition, 20 retired generals also signed the letter. The letter pinned the blame on “fanatic partisans” for creating divisions between communities while alleging that Islamists have taken over whole parts of the country. The letter said, “The hour is grave, France is in peril” and was published in a right-wing magazine on the 60th anniversary of a failed coup on April 21.

At the time, Florence Parly, the minister in charge of the French armed forces hit out at the letter, claiming that the military ought to be neutral and loyal.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/open-letter-by-french-soldiers-warning-of-civil-war-angers-macron-government-381049" hreflang="en">Open letter by French soldiers warning of 'civil war' angers Macron government</a>

"Two immutable principles guide the action of members of the military with regard to politics: neutrality and loyalty”, Parly tweeted.

Marine Le Pen, a right-wing leader from France who is also a prominent candidate in next year’s presidential election openly voiced&nbsp;support to the letter.

After France promised legal action against soldiers who had signed a letter warning of civil war in the country, a new letter echoing the same sentiment has come to light.

After France promised legal action against soldiers who had signed a letter warning of civil war in the country, a new letter echoing the same sentiment has come to light. At least 75,000 people have signed another letter foretelling a civil war in the country due to the “concessions” given to Islamism under the current government. The message was published in a right-wing magazine and said that “it is about the survival of our country”. The current letter, like the last one was backed by soldiers. This time, they did it anonymously, after which it received public support. The recent letter was published by Valuers Actuelles on Sunday. It claims that the letter was signed by members of the military, which remains unclear. The authors of this letter claim to have served in Afghanistan, Mali and the Central African Republic - signifying they’re part of the younger forces. "They gave their skin to destroy the Islamism to which you are giving concessions on our soil," the message read. In addition, the message criticised French leaders for chiding leaders who had participated in the last letter. "If a civil war breaks out, the army will maintain order on its own soil," the letter said. Also read: French soldiers to face military sanctions over warning of 'civil war' The previous letter was signed by 1,000 active soldiers including both men and women in April. In addition, 20 retired generals also signed the letter. The letter pinned the blame on “fanatic partisans” for creating divisions between communities while alleging that Islamists have taken over whole parts of the country. The letter said, “The hour is grave, France is in peril” and was published in a right-wing magazine on the 60th anniversary of a failed coup on April 21. At the time, Florence Parly, the minister in charge of the French armed forces hit out at the letter, claiming that the military ought to be neutral and loyal. Also read: Open letter by French soldiers warning of 'civil war' angers Macron government "Two immutable principles guide the action of members of the military with regard to politics: neutrality and loyalty”, Parly tweeted. Marine Le Pen, a right-wing leader from France who is also a prominent candidate in next year’s presidential election openly voiced support to the letter.

Another letter penned by soldiers foretelling civil war in France surfaces

Sri Lanka is claiming support from India at United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) but New Delhi has not made any official remark on the upcoming UN resolution against Columbo over war crimes committed during Sri Lankan civil war.

Sri Lanka claims support from India at UNHRC

Near the wreckage of Beirut's port, a charity is bringing Christmas cheer to a city hammered by a devastating explosion, rising coronavirus infections and the worst economic crisis since Lebanon's 1975-1990 civil war.

'Glimmer of hope': Beirut seeks Christmas cheer after devastating year

Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed`s government said on Monday it had captured another town in the northern Tigray region after nearly two weeks of fighting in a conflict already spilling into Eritrea and destabilising the wider Horn of Africa. 
 
Hundreds have died, at least 20,000 refugees have fled to Sudan and there have been reports of atrocities since Abiy ordered air strikes and a ground offensive against Tigray`s rulers for defying his authority.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/ethiopia-seizes-town-in-tigray-says-10000-prisoners-missing-343424" hreflang="en">Ethiopia seizes town in Tigray, says 10,000 prisoners missing</a> 
 
The conflict could jeopardise the recent opening up of Ethiopia`s economy, stir up ethnic bloodshed elsewhere around Africa`s second most populous nation, and tarnish the reputation of Abiy who won a Nobel Peace Prize last year for a peace pact with Eritrea. 
 
The Tigray People`s Liberation Front (TPLF), which governs the region of more than 5 million people, has accused Eritrea of sending tanks and thousands of soldiers over the border to support Ethiopian federal troops. Asmara denies that. 
 
Tigray forces fired rockets into Eritrea at the weekend. 
 
A task force set up by Abiy to handle the government`s response to the crisis said federal troops had "liberated" the town of Alamata from the TPLF." They fled, taking along around 10,000 prisoners," it added, without specifying where those were from. 
 
With communications mainly down and media barred, Reuters could not independently verify assertions made by all sides. 
 
There was no immediate comment from Tigray`s leaders about Alamata, near the border with Amhara state, about 120 km (75 miles) from Tigray`s capital Mekelle. 
 
TPLF leader Debretsion Gebremichael urged the United Nations and African Union to condemn Ethiopia`s federal troops, accusing them of using of high-tech weaponry including drones in attacks he said smashed a dam and a sugar factory. 
 
"Abiy Ahmed is waging this war on the people of Tigray and he is responsible for the purposeful infliction of human suffering on the people and destruction of major infrastructure projects," he said. 
 
"We are not the initiators of this conflict and it is evident that Abiy Ahmed conducted this war as an attempt to consolidate his personal power," he added, warning that Ethiopia could become a failed state or disintegrate. 
 
The government has previously denied targeting the dam. 
 
It could not be reached for comment about Debretsion`s allegations it had targeted a sugar factory. 
 
 
FIGHTING SPREADS 
 
The fighting has spread beyond Tigray into Ethiopia`s northern region of Amhara, whose local forces are allied with Abiy`s forces. 
 
On Friday, rockets were fired at two airports in Amhara in what the TPLF said was retaliation for government air strikes. Tigray leaders accuse Abiy, who is from the largest Oromo ethnic group, of persecuting them and purging them from government and security forces over the last two years. 
 
He says they rose up against him by attacking a military base. 
 
Amnesty International has denounced the killing of scores and possibly hundreds of civilian labourers in a massacre that both sides have blamed on each other. 
 
The United Nations and others have urged Abiy to negotiate with the Tigrayans and there have been reports Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni`s government could mediate. 
 
Museveni, a former guerrilla leader in power since 1986, tweeted on Monday that he had met Demeke Mekonnen, Ethiopia`s foreign minister and deputy prime minister, in Uganda. 
 
"A war in Ethiopia would give the entire continent a bad image. There should be negotiations and the conflict stopped, lest it leads to unnecessary loss of lives and cripples the economy," he said. 
 
Ethiopia denied any mediation had begun.The Ethiopian National Defence Force (ENDF) has around 140,000 personnel and plenty of experience from fighting Islamist militants in Somalia, rebel groups in border regions and a two-decade border standoff with Eritrea. 
 
But many senior officers were Tigrayan, much of its most powerful weaponry is there and the TPLF has seized the powerful Northern Command`s headquarters in Mekelle. There are reports of defections of Tigrayan members of the ENDF. 
 
And the TPLF itself has a formidable history, spearheading the rebel march to Addis Ababa that ousted a Marxist dictatorship in 1991 and bearing the brunt of a 1998-2000 war with Eritrea that killed hundreds of thousands. 
 
Eritrea`s President Isaias Afwerki – a long-time foe of the Tigrayan leaders - controls a vast standing army which the United States` CIA puts at 200,000 personnel. 
 
Abiy once fought alongside the Tigrayans and was a partner in government with them until 2018 when he took office, winning early plaudits for pursuing peace with Eritrea, starting to liberalise the economy and opening a repressive political system.

Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed`s government said on Monday it had captured another town in the northern Tigray region after nearly two weeks of fighting in a conflict already spilling into Eritrea and destabilising the wider Horn of Africa.

Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed`s government said on Monday it had captured another town in the northern Tigray region after nearly two weeks of fighting in a conflict already spilling into Eritrea and destabilising the wider Horn of Africa. Hundreds have died, at least 20,000 refugees have fled to Sudan and there have been reports of atrocities since Abiy ordered air strikes and a ground offensive against Tigray`s rulers for defying his authority. Also read: Ethiopia seizes town in Tigray, says 10,000 prisoners missing The conflict could jeopardise the recent opening up of Ethiopia`s economy, stir up ethnic bloodshed elsewhere around Africa`s second most populous nation, and tarnish the reputation of Abiy who won a Nobel Peace Prize last year for a peace pact with Eritrea. The Tigray People`s Liberation Front (TPLF), which governs the region of more than 5 million people, has accused Eritrea of sending tanks and thousands of soldiers over the border to support Ethiopian federal troops. Asmara denies that. Tigray forces fired rockets into Eritrea at the weekend. A task force set up by Abiy to handle the government`s response to the crisis said federal troops had "liberated" the town of Alamata from the TPLF." They fled, taking along around 10,000 prisoners," it added, without specifying where those were from. With communications mainly down and media barred, Reuters could not independently verify assertions made by all sides. There was no immediate comment from Tigray`s leaders about Alamata, near the border with Amhara state, about 120 km (75 miles) from Tigray`s capital Mekelle. TPLF leader Debretsion Gebremichael urged the United Nations and African Union to condemn Ethiopia`s federal troops, accusing them of using of high-tech weaponry including drones in attacks he said smashed a dam and a sugar factory. "Abiy Ahmed is waging this war on the people of Tigray and he is responsible for the purposeful infliction of human suffering on the people and destruction of major infrastructure projects," he said. "We are not the initiators of this conflict and it is evident that Abiy Ahmed conducted this war as an attempt to consolidate his personal power," he added, warning that Ethiopia could become a failed state or disintegrate. The government has previously denied targeting the dam. It could not be reached for comment about Debretsion`s allegations it had targeted a sugar factory. FIGHTING SPREADS The fighting has spread beyond Tigray into Ethiopia`s northern region of Amhara, whose local forces are allied with Abiy`s forces. On Friday, rockets were fired at two airports in Amhara in what the TPLF said was retaliation for government air strikes. Tigray leaders accuse Abiy, who is from the largest Oromo ethnic group, of persecuting them and purging them from government and security forces over the last two years. He says they rose up against him by attacking a military base. Amnesty International has denounced the killing of scores and possibly hundreds of civilian labourers in a massacre that both sides have blamed on each other. The United Nations and others have urged Abiy to negotiate with the Tigrayans and there have been reports Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni`s government could mediate. Museveni, a former guerrilla leader in power since 1986, tweeted on Monday that he had met Demeke Mekonnen, Ethiopia`s foreign minister and deputy prime minister, in Uganda. "A war in Ethiopia would give the entire continent a bad image. There should be negotiations and the conflict stopped, lest it leads to unnecessary loss of lives and cripples the economy," he said. Ethiopia denied any mediation had begun.The Ethiopian National Defence Force (ENDF) has around 140,000 personnel and plenty of experience from fighting Islamist militants in Somalia, rebel groups in border regions and a two-decade border standoff with Eritrea. But many senior officers were Tigrayan, much of its most powerful weaponry is there and the TPLF has seized the powerful Northern Command`s headquarters in Mekelle. There are reports of defections of Tigrayan members of the ENDF. And the TPLF itself has a formidable history, spearheading the rebel march to Addis Ababa that ousted a Marxist dictatorship in 1991 and bearing the brunt of a 1998-2000 war with Eritrea that killed hundreds of thousands. Eritrea`s President Isaias Afwerki – a long-time foe of the Tigrayan leaders - controls a vast standing army which the United States` CIA puts at 200,000 personnel. Abiy once fought alongside the Tigrayans and was a partner in government with them until 2018 when he took office, winning early plaudits for pursuing peace with Eritrea, starting to liberalise the economy and opening a repressive political system.

Ethiopia says Tigray town seized, war embroils Eritrea

Around this time last year, Ethiopia's Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed won the Nobel Peace Prize. Today, Ethiopia is standing on the brink of civil war on his watch. WION's Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: Ethiopia on the brink of a civil war

The German federal prosecutors have charged 12 people who were suspected of planning terrorist attacks on politicians, asylum-seekers and Muslims.

The 12 charged are believed to be from a far-right ideology. Eleven out of the charged were arrested in official raids conducted throughout the country, and have been accused of being a part of a terrorist organisation, and are also being charged with weapons law violations. The twelfth man has been charged for his close association and support for a terrorist organisation.

The arrests of the eleven guilty were made after raids in six German states. These raids were conducted by&nbsp;heavily-armed special units. Out of the arrested, four of the prime suspects have revealed plans of initiating&nbsp;&nbsp;"a civil-war-like situation... via as yet undefined attacks on politicians, asylum seekers and people of Muslim faith," federal prosecutors said. These suspects had also founded a "right-wing terrorist organisation" with the aim of "destabilising and ultimately overthrowing" Germany's democratic order.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/austria-government-to-ban-political-islam-shut-down-mosques-342558">Austria government to ban ‘political Islam’, shut down mosques</a>

Rest of the eight have been charged for agreeing to "financially support the group, provide it with weapons or take part in future attacks".

The group also revealed that they met regularly to plan the attacks, and the meetings were usually moderated by two main suspects, who are being identified as&nbsp;Werner S. and Tony E. These members also communicated through messenger apps, which have not been revealed yet.

Through the raids, the German police had discovered several weapons, which also included a self-made "slam gun", which was almost identical to the one used in the Halle attack.

The raids and the arrests were a part of German police's heightened security against the far-right and extremists groups in the country.&nbsp;Interior Minister Horst Seehofer announced late last year 600 new posts across the federal police and domestic security services to track far-right extremist threats, citing a growing danger.

(With inputs from AFP)

The German federal prosecutors have charged 12 people who were suspected of planning terrorist attacks on politicians, asylum-seekers and Muslims. The 12 charged are believed to be from a far-right ideology.

The German federal prosecutors have charged 12 people who were suspected of planning terrorist attacks on politicians, asylum-seekers and Muslims. The 12 charged are believed to be from a far-right ideology. Eleven out of the charged were arrested in official raids conducted throughout the country, and have been accused of being a part of a terrorist organisation, and are also being charged with weapons law violations. The twelfth man has been charged for his close association and support for a terrorist organisation. The arrests of the eleven guilty were made after raids in six German states. These raids were conducted by heavily-armed special units. Out of the arrested, four of the prime suspects have revealed plans of initiating "a civil-war-like situation... via as yet undefined attacks on politicians, asylum seekers and people of Muslim faith," federal prosecutors said. These suspects had also founded a "right-wing terrorist organisation" with the aim of "destabilising and ultimately overthrowing" Germany's democratic order. Also read| Austria government to ban ‘political Islam’, shut down mosques Rest of the eight have been charged for agreeing to "financially support the group, provide it with weapons or take part in future attacks". The group also revealed that they met regularly to plan the attacks, and the meetings were usually moderated by two main suspects, who are being identified as Werner S. and Tony E. These members also communicated through messenger apps, which have not been revealed yet. Through the raids, the German police had discovered several weapons, which also included a self-made "slam gun", which was almost identical to the one used in the Halle attack. The raids and the arrests were a part of German police's heightened security against the far-right and extremists groups in the country. Interior Minister Horst Seehofer announced late last year 600 new posts across the federal police and domestic security services to track far-right extremist threats, citing a growing danger. (With inputs from AFP)

Germany charges 12 men for planning terrorist attacks on politicians, asylum-seekers

About 2,500 Ethiopians have escaped across the border to Sudan from fighting in the restive Tigray region, with the exodus likely to swell fast, an official said.&nbsp;

Refugees fled to Sudan on Tuesday and the African Union appealed for a ceasefire in a north Ethiopian region where Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed is waging a military offensive against local leaders defiant of his authority.

About 2,500 Ethiopians have escaped across the border to Sudan from fighting in the restive Tigray region, with the exodus likely to swell fast, an official said.

Hundreds have died in airstrikes and fighting amid fears that Ethiopia could slide into civil war given deep animosity between the Tigrayans and Abiy, who comes from the largest Oromo ethnic group.

With access blocked to Tigray and communications largely down, it was hard to verify the state of the conflict.

State media said federal forces had captured Humera airport, near the borders with Sudan and Eritrea, along with a road leading from the town. The Ethiopian Press Agency posted photos that it said showed federal soldiers, backed by forces from the neighbouring Amhara region, at the airport.

However, Humera residents were going about their lives normally, according to a communications office of the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF), which governs the state of more than 5 million people.

State-affiliated broadcaster FANA said Ethiopia had arrested 17 military officers for disrupting communications systems used by federal forces in Tigray, exposing them to potential harm.

Abiy, who won the Nobel Peace Prize in 2019, ordered air strikes and sent troops into Tigray last week after accusing the TPLF of attacking a military base. Tigrayans say Abiy's government oppresses and discriminates against them and behaved autocratically in postponing a national election.

Eritrea Allegation

In a potential major escalation, Tigray leader Debretsion Gebremichael said the Eritrean government of President Isaias Afwerki had sent troops across the border to attack local forces in support of the federal push.

But he gave no proof and Eritrea's Foreign Minister Osman Saleh Mohammed denied it. "We are not part of the conflict," he told Reuters.

Eritrea and Ethiopia signed a peace deal two years ago, but Afwerki's government remains hostile to the Tigrayan leadership after its role in a devastating 1998-2000 war.

Reuters reporters on Monday travelling in Tigray and Amhara saw trucks packed with militia fighters and pickups with mounted machine-guns rushing to the frontline for the federal government.

Warplanes have bombed arms depots and other targets, both sides say, while aid workers and security sources have reported heavy fighting on the ground.

Military and security sources in Amhara, on the side of the federal troops, have spoken of 500 deaths on the Tigrayan side and hundreds also from the national military.

The state-affiliated Fana broadcaster said federal troops had killed 550 Tigrayan "extremists" while another 29 members of local Special Forces and militia had surrendered.

The AU bloc called for peace talks and an end to hostilities. But Ethiopia said mediation was only possible if military hardware in Tigrayan hands was destroyed, federal officials were freed from custody and regional leaders arrested.

War Fears

The 44-year-old Abiy is Africa's youngest leader and won his Nobel prize for democratic reforms and for making peace with Eritrea. But his militancy against Tigray has alarmed diplomats and a full-scale war could further damage an economy already reeling from the coronavirus crisis.

A former soldier who once fought alongside Tigrayans against Eritrea, Abiy took over in 2018 after a Tigrayan-led government had dominated politics since rebels from their region toppled Marxist military rule in 1991.

But his attempts to open up a repressive political climate also led to an explosion of ethnic problems, with hundreds killed and hundreds of thousands forced to flee their homes in clashes over the last two years.

Abiy believes he can quell the Tigrayan leadership militarily, diplomats told Reuters, though they are a battle-hardened group from the 1998-2000 war with Eritrea and the defeat of dictator Mengistu Haile Mariam in 1991.

TPLF forces and militia allies number up to 250,000 men and possess significant hardware, experts say.

"Operations will cease as soon as the criminal junta is disarmed, legitimate administration in the region restored, and fugitives apprehended &amp; brought to justice - all of them rapidly coming within reach," Abiy tweeted on Tuesday.

The TPLF has called him "merciless" with airstrikes.

Redwan Hussein, spokesman of a newly-established State of Emergency Task Force for the Tigray conflict, said federal soldiers had been forced to retreat over the border to Eritrea before regrouping and returning to fight local forces.

He acknowledged that Tigrayan troops had control of a compound of the Ethiopian military's powerful Northern Command in Mekelle, the capital of Tigray.

About 2,500 Ethiopians have escaped across the border to Sudan from fighting in the restive Tigray region, with the exodus likely to swell fast, an official said.

About 2,500 Ethiopians have escaped across the border to Sudan from fighting in the restive Tigray region, with the exodus likely to swell fast, an official said. Refugees fled to Sudan on Tuesday and the African Union appealed for a ceasefire in a north Ethiopian region where Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed is waging a military offensive against local leaders defiant of his authority. About 2,500 Ethiopians have escaped across the border to Sudan from fighting in the restive Tigray region, with the exodus likely to swell fast, an official said. Hundreds have died in airstrikes and fighting amid fears that Ethiopia could slide into civil war given deep animosity between the Tigrayans and Abiy, who comes from the largest Oromo ethnic group. With access blocked to Tigray and communications largely down, it was hard to verify the state of the conflict. State media said federal forces had captured Humera airport, near the borders with Sudan and Eritrea, along with a road leading from the town. The Ethiopian Press Agency posted photos that it said showed federal soldiers, backed by forces from the neighbouring Amhara region, at the airport. However, Humera residents were going about their lives normally, according to a communications office of the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF), which governs the state of more than 5 million people. State-affiliated broadcaster FANA said Ethiopia had arrested 17 military officers for disrupting communications systems used by federal forces in Tigray, exposing them to potential harm. Abiy, who won the Nobel Peace Prize in 2019, ordered air strikes and sent troops into Tigray last week after accusing the TPLF of attacking a military base. Tigrayans say Abiy's government oppresses and discriminates against them and behaved autocratically in postponing a national election. Eritrea Allegation In a potential major escalation, Tigray leader Debretsion Gebremichael said the Eritrean government of President Isaias Afwerki had sent troops across the border to attack local forces in support of the federal push. But he gave no proof and Eritrea's Foreign Minister Osman Saleh Mohammed denied it. "We are not part of the conflict," he told Reuters. Eritrea and Ethiopia signed a peace deal two years ago, but Afwerki's government remains hostile to the Tigrayan leadership after its role in a devastating 1998-2000 war. Reuters reporters on Monday travelling in Tigray and Amhara saw trucks packed with militia fighters and pickups with mounted machine-guns rushing to the frontline for the federal government. Warplanes have bombed arms depots and other targets, both sides say, while aid workers and security sources have reported heavy fighting on the ground. Military and security sources in Amhara, on the side of the federal troops, have spoken of 500 deaths on the Tigrayan side and hundreds also from the national military. The state-affiliated Fana broadcaster said federal troops had killed 550 Tigrayan "extremists" while another 29 members of local Special Forces and militia had surrendered. The AU bloc called for peace talks and an end to hostilities. But Ethiopia said mediation was only possible if military hardware in Tigrayan hands was destroyed, federal officials were freed from custody and regional leaders arrested. War Fears The 44-year-old Abiy is Africa's youngest leader and won his Nobel prize for democratic reforms and for making peace with Eritrea. But his militancy against Tigray has alarmed diplomats and a full-scale war could further damage an economy already reeling from the coronavirus crisis. A former soldier who once fought alongside Tigrayans against Eritrea, Abiy took over in 2018 after a Tigrayan-led government had dominated politics since rebels from their region toppled Marxist military rule in 1991. But his attempts to open up a repressive political climate also led to an explosion of ethnic problems, with hundreds killed and hundreds of thousands forced to flee their homes in clashes over the last two years. Abiy believes he can quell the Tigrayan leadership militarily, diplomats told Reuters, though they are a battle-hardened group from the 1998-2000 war with Eritrea and the defeat of dictator Mengistu Haile Mariam in 1991. TPLF forces and militia allies number up to 250,000 men and possess significant hardware, experts say. "Operations will cease as soon as the criminal junta is disarmed, legitimate administration in the region restored, and fugitives apprehended & brought to justice - all of them rapidly coming within reach," Abiy tweeted on Tuesday. The TPLF has called him "merciless" with airstrikes. Redwan Hussein, spokesman of a newly-established State of Emergency Task Force for the Tigray conflict, said federal soldiers had been forced to retreat over the border to Eritrea before regrouping and returning to fight local forces. He acknowledged that Tigrayan troops had control of a compound of the Ethiopian military's powerful Northern Command in Mekelle, the capital of Tigray.

Ethiopia's Tigray conflict worsens, 550 rebels killed 

Ethiopian troops took an airport in the Tigray region during an offensive against local leaders defying Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed's authority, state media said on Tuesday, as the African Union (AU) called for an end to bloodshed.

Hundreds have been killed in an escalating conflict that some fear could slide into civil war given deep animosity between the Tigrayans and the government of Abiy Ahmed, who comes from the largest Oromo ethnic group.

Various Tigrayan forces surrendered during the seizure of Humera airport, near the border with Sudan and Eritrea, while the military also captured a road leading from the town to the Sudanese border, the Fana broadcaster reported.

The Ethiopian Press Agency posted photos that it said showed federal soldiers, backed by forces from the neighbouring Amhara region, at the airport.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/hundreds-killed-in-escalating-ethiopian-conflict-sources-say-341983" hreflang="en">Hundreds killed in escalating Ethiopian conflict, sources say</a>

However, Humera residents were going about their lives normally, the local government's communication office said citing Tigray TV, without commenting on the status of the airport.

Foreign media had no access to Tigray on Tuesday and Reuters could not confirm the reports. There was no immediate response from the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF), which governs the state of more than 9 million people.

Abiy, who won the Nobel Peace Prize in 2019, ordered air strikes and sent troops into Tigray last week after accusing the TPLF of attacking a military base. Tigrayans say Abiy's government oppresses and discriminates against them and behaved autocratically in postponing a national election.

'CEASE HOSTILITIES'

The AU bloc called for peace talks and a ceasefire. "The chairperson (Moussa Faki Mahamat) appeals for the immediate cessation of hostilities and calls on parties to respect human rights and ensure the protection of civilians," it said.

Some Ethiopians, including soldiers, have begun crossing into Sudan amid fears of a refugee crisis, residents in the region and Sudanese state media say.

Reuters reporters on Monday travelling in Tigray and Amhara saw trucks packed with militia fighters and pickups with mounted machine-guns rushing to the frontline in support of the federal government push.

Warplanes have bombed arms depots and other targets, both sides say, while aid workers and security sources have reported heavy fighting on the ground.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/ethiopia-downplays-war-fears-while-seeking-to-quell-tigray-341901" hreflang="en">Ethiopia downplays war fears while seeking to quell Tigray</a>

Military and security sources in Amhara, on the side of the federal troops, have spoken of 500 deaths on the Tigrayan side and hundreds also from the national military.

Abiy's spokeswoman denied suggestions from some diplomats that he was ignoring mediation efforts and endangering stability in the poor and turbulent Horn of Africa region.

"There is no rebuffing of anyone by the prime minister. He had acknowledged and given gratitude for the concerns shown," the spokeswoman, Billene Seyoum, told Reuters.

"Nevertheless, Ethiopia is a sovereign nation and its government&nbsp;will ultimately make decisions in the long-term interest of the country and its people."

WAR FEARS

The 44-year-old prime minister is Africa's youngest leader and won his Nobel prize for democratic reforms and for making peace with Eritrea. But his militancy against Tigray has alarmed diplomats and a full-scale war could further damage an economy already reeling from the coronavirus crisis.

Abiy, a former soldier who once fought alongside Tigrayans against Eritrea, took over in 2018 after a Tigrayan-led government had dominated politics since rebels from their region toppled Marxist military rule in 1991.

But his attempts to open up a repressive political climate also led to an explosion of ethnic problems, with hundreds killed and hundreds of thousands forced to flee their homes in clashes over the last two years.

Abiy believes he can quell the Tigrayan leadership militarily, diplomats told Reuters, though they are a battle-hardened group from a 1998-2000 war with Eritrea and the defeat of dictator Mengistu Haile Mariam in 1991.

TPLF forces and militia allies number up to 250,000 men and possess significant hardware, experts say.

"Our law enforcement operations in Tigray are proceeding as planned: operations will cease as soon as the criminal junta is disarmed, legitimate administration in the region restored, and fugitives apprehended &amp; brought to justice — all of them rapidly coming within reach," Abiy tweeted on Tuesday.

The TPLF has called him "merciless" with air strikes.

Ethiopian troops took an airport in the Tigray region during an offensive against local leaders defying Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed's authority, state media said on Tuesday, as the African Union (AU) called for an end to bloodshed.

Ethiopian troops took an airport in the Tigray region during an offensive against local leaders defying Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed's authority, state media said on Tuesday, as the African Union (AU) called for an end to bloodshed. Hundreds have been killed in an escalating conflict that some fear could slide into civil war given deep animosity between the Tigrayans and the government of Abiy Ahmed, who comes from the largest Oromo ethnic group. Various Tigrayan forces surrendered during the seizure of Humera airport, near the border with Sudan and Eritrea, while the military also captured a road leading from the town to the Sudanese border, the Fana broadcaster reported. The Ethiopian Press Agency posted photos that it said showed federal soldiers, backed by forces from the neighbouring Amhara region, at the airport. Also read: Hundreds killed in escalating Ethiopian conflict, sources say However, Humera residents were going about their lives normally, the local government's communication office said citing Tigray TV, without commenting on the status of the airport. Foreign media had no access to Tigray on Tuesday and Reuters could not confirm the reports. There was no immediate response from the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF), which governs the state of more than 9 million people. Abiy, who won the Nobel Peace Prize in 2019, ordered air strikes and sent troops into Tigray last week after accusing the TPLF of attacking a military base. Tigrayans say Abiy's government oppresses and discriminates against them and behaved autocratically in postponing a national election. 'CEASE HOSTILITIES' The AU bloc called for peace talks and a ceasefire. "The chairperson (Moussa Faki Mahamat) appeals for the immediate cessation of hostilities and calls on parties to respect human rights and ensure the protection of civilians," it said. Some Ethiopians, including soldiers, have begun crossing into Sudan amid fears of a refugee crisis, residents in the region and Sudanese state media say. Reuters reporters on Monday travelling in Tigray and Amhara saw trucks packed with militia fighters and pickups with mounted machine-guns rushing to the frontline in support of the federal government push. Warplanes have bombed arms depots and other targets, both sides say, while aid workers and security sources have reported heavy fighting on the ground. Also read: Ethiopia downplays war fears while seeking to quell Tigray Military and security sources in Amhara, on the side of the federal troops, have spoken of 500 deaths on the Tigrayan side and hundreds also from the national military. Abiy's spokeswoman denied suggestions from some diplomats that he was ignoring mediation efforts and endangering stability in the poor and turbulent Horn of Africa region. "There is no rebuffing of anyone by the prime minister. He had acknowledged and given gratitude for the concerns shown," the spokeswoman, Billene Seyoum, told Reuters. "Nevertheless, Ethiopia is a sovereign nation and its government will ultimately make decisions in the long-term interest of the country and its people." WAR FEARS The 44-year-old prime minister is Africa's youngest leader and won his Nobel prize for democratic reforms and for making peace with Eritrea. But his militancy against Tigray has alarmed diplomats and a full-scale war could further damage an economy already reeling from the coronavirus crisis. Abiy, a former soldier who once fought alongside Tigrayans against Eritrea, took over in 2018 after a Tigrayan-led government had dominated politics since rebels from their region toppled Marxist military rule in 1991. But his attempts to open up a repressive political climate also led to an explosion of ethnic problems, with hundreds killed and hundreds of thousands forced to flee their homes in clashes over the last two years. Abiy believes he can quell the Tigrayan leadership militarily, diplomats told Reuters, though they are a battle-hardened group from a 1998-2000 war with Eritrea and the defeat of dictator Mengistu Haile Mariam in 1991. TPLF forces and militia allies number up to 250,000 men and possess significant hardware, experts say. "Our law enforcement operations in Tigray are proceeding as planned: operations will cease as soon as the criminal junta is disarmed, legitimate administration in the region restored, and fugitives apprehended & brought to justice — all of them rapidly coming within reach," Abiy tweeted on Tuesday. The TPLF has called him "merciless" with air strikes.

African bloc urges ceasefire as Ethiopia claims airport in Tigray

Ethiopia is hurtling towards a civil war. The northern province of Tigray is in open rebellion. On Wednesday -- the local ruling party attacked federal troops stationed here. Prime minister Abiy Ahmed described it as an act of betrayal...

"The army has been attacked from behind by its own citizens and many have been martyred, wounded and properties destroyed. This force of destruction has been engaged in many counterproductive activities for the past many months," he said.

Watch |&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-a-civil-war-is-brewing-in-ethiopia-340946/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Cracks in the union first emerged in September. Tigray held parliamentary elections - without permission from the centre. The vote was declared illegal. It was the first indication of what was in store.&nbsp;

At the heart of this brewing civil war is a battle for influence. Tigray accounts for just 5% of Ethiopia's population. But thanks to a well-trained army.And a strong economy. It has always enjoyed disproportionate power in government.

That changed when Abiy Ahmed came to power in 2018. Major Tigrayan officials were either fired or sidelined. It was part of his crackdown on corruption. In response, the Tigray government declared prime minister Abiy as illegitimate.

"The authoritarian unitary government that has illegally usurped power of the federal government is committing treason and injustice by forging alliance with external forces and setting out the country's sovereignty in a bid to subdue people of Tigray," said spokesperson of the Tigray government

The situation is precarious right now. A state of emergency has been declared in Tigray. Federal troops have moved in. Electricity, internet and telephone connections have been cut. Prime minister Abiy has made it clear that he will fight till the end.

The war itself is likely to be devastating. Tigray claims that federal troops in the region have defected. Combined with the region's own forces. They could be a handful for the Ethiopian army.&nbsp;

There is also the risk of the rebellion spreading elsewhere. Ethiopia is home to 80 ethnic groups. Unresolved tensions could resurface - if a civil war breaks out.

Prime minister Abiy is a champion of dialogue. He ended a two-decade conflict with neighbouring Eritrea. And pacified rebel groups.&nbsp;

All without deploying troops. But the attack on Ethiopian soldiers was the red line for him. The question is -- can Africa's oldest union survive his war?

Ethiopia is hurtling towards a civil war. The northern province of Tigray is in open rebellion. On Wednesday -- the local ruling party attacked federal troops stationed here.

Ethiopia is hurtling towards a civil war. The northern province of Tigray is in open rebellion. On Wednesday -- the local ruling party attacked federal troops stationed here. Prime minister Abiy Ahmed described it as an act of betrayal... "The army has been attacked from behind by its own citizens and many have been martyred, wounded and properties destroyed. This force of destruction has been engaged in many counterproductive activities for the past many months," he said. Watch | Cracks in the union first emerged in September. Tigray held parliamentary elections - without permission from the centre. The vote was declared illegal. It was the first indication of what was in store. At the heart of this brewing civil war is a battle for influence. Tigray accounts for just 5% of Ethiopia's population. But thanks to a well-trained army.And a strong economy. It has always enjoyed disproportionate power in government. That changed when Abiy Ahmed came to power in 2018. Major Tigrayan officials were either fired or sidelined. It was part of his crackdown on corruption. In response, the Tigray government declared prime minister Abiy as illegitimate. "The authoritarian unitary government that has illegally usurped power of the federal government is committing treason and injustice by forging alliance with external forces and setting out the country's sovereignty in a bid to subdue people of Tigray," said spokesperson of the Tigray government The situation is precarious right now. A state of emergency has been declared in Tigray. Federal troops have moved in. Electricity, internet and telephone connections have been cut. Prime minister Abiy has made it clear that he will fight till the end. The war itself is likely to be devastating. Tigray claims that federal troops in the region have defected. Combined with the region's own forces. They could be a handful for the Ethiopian army. There is also the risk of the rebellion spreading elsewhere. Ethiopia is home to 80 ethnic groups. Unresolved tensions could resurface - if a civil war breaks out. Prime minister Abiy is a champion of dialogue. He ended a two-decade conflict with neighbouring Eritrea. And pacified rebel groups. All without deploying troops. But the attack on Ethiopian soldiers was the red line for him. The question is -- can Africa's oldest union survive his war?

Can Ethiopia survive a civil war?

A united opposition, nation-wide protests, a rebellion by police officers & an entire province up in arms. A civil war seems to be brewing in Pakistan. Will it spell the end of Imran Khan PTI's rule? WION's Palki Sharma gets you a report.

Gravitas: Is a civil war brewing in Pakistan?

French President Emmanuel Macron has warned that Lebanon is on the risk of civil war if not helped in the crisis. Macron has asked global community to help Lebanon. French Prez has pushed to establish a news government in the country.

Emmanuel Macron says Lebanon on the risk of Civil War if not helped in crisis

The UN Security Council on Saturday passed a resolution to restart cross-border humanitarian aid to Syria, but only after caving to Russian pressure to close one of two access points into the war-torn country.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/french-court-sentences-prison-terms-for-ex-spies-for-sharing-intelligence-with-china-312806" hreflang="en">French court sentences prison terms for ex-spies for 'sharing intelligence' with China</a>

Following a week of division and seven ballots, the Council passed a proposal submitted by Germany and Belgium allowing the use of the Bab al-Hawa crossing point for one year.

The measure was approved by 12 of 15 members, with Russia, China and the Dominican Republic abstaining, diplomats said.

Authorization for the continued transport of aid to Syria, a system in place since 2014, expired Friday night after Moscow and Beijing used their veto power and the Council then rejected a counterproposal from Russia.

With the approval of the German-Belgian proposal on Saturday, the Bab al-Hawa crossing point on Syria's northwestern border with Turkey will be maintained for a year, until July 10, 2021.

This will allow badly needed humanitarian aid to continue flowing to several million Syrians living in the insurgent region of Idlib, which the Syrian regime does not control.

For weeks, Russia, Syria's most important ally, has been demanding an end to the use of the Bab al-Salam border crossing, which leads to the Aleppo region in northern Syria.&nbsp;

European countries and the US had wanted to maintain both crossing points.

"Russia controls this process," said Richard Gowan of the International Crisis Group think tank.&nbsp;

"The drama and vetoes of the last week were a distraction as ultimately Russia was always going to force a settlement on roughly the terms we see today," he told AFP.

The outcome of Saturday's vote is a notable failure for the United States, whose ambassador had called the maintenance of two border crossings a "red line."

UN authorization allows the international body to distribute aid to displaced Syrians without Damascus's permission.

But Russia and China argue that the authorization violates Syria's sovereignty, and that aid can increasingly be channeled through Syrian authorities.

Western member states reject Russia's arguments, saying there is no credible alternative to the cross-border system and that Syrian bureaucracy and politics prevent an effective flow of aid in areas not controlled by the Syrian regime.

Susannah Sirkin, of Physicians for Human Rights, called the UN system "the most viable channel to deliver aid to millions of Syrians in need."

"Without it, civilians who rely on lifesaving assistance will be at the mercy of the Syrian government," which could block aid deliveries to areas under opposition control, she said.

The closure of the Bab al-Salam crossing was also a setback for UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, who called in June for a one-year extension of the aid to include the two access points.

In January, Moscow succeeded in having the crossing points reduced from four to two and in limiting the authorization to six months instead of a year.

This week Russia and China exercised their veto rights as permanent members twice -- on Tuesday and Friday -- even as NGOs and Western countries accused them of politicizing a humanitarian issue.

Friday's vetoes by Moscow and Beijing marked the 16th for Russia and 10th for China on texts linked to Syria since the war began in 2011.

Dominican Ambassador Jose Singer said, "We are disappointed that once again, the Security Council has been unable to collectively and constructively address one of the greatest humanitarian tragedies of our time."

But the German ambassador, Heiko Maas, said it was "good news for millions of Syrian men, women and children that the Security Council was ultimately able to agree on our compromise proposal."

The UN Security Council on Saturday passed a resolution to restart cross-border humanitarian aid to Syria, but only after caving to Russian pressure to close one of two access points into the war-torn country.

The UN Security Council on Saturday passed a resolution to restart cross-border humanitarian aid to Syria, but only after caving to Russian pressure to close one of two access points into the war-torn country. Also read: French court sentences prison terms for ex-spies for 'sharing intelligence' with China Following a week of division and seven ballots, the Council passed a proposal submitted by Germany and Belgium allowing the use of the Bab al-Hawa crossing point for one year. The measure was approved by 12 of 15 members, with Russia, China and the Dominican Republic abstaining, diplomats said. Authorization for the continued transport of aid to Syria, a system in place since 2014, expired Friday night after Moscow and Beijing used their veto power and the Council then rejected a counterproposal from Russia. With the approval of the German-Belgian proposal on Saturday, the Bab al-Hawa crossing point on Syria's northwestern border with Turkey will be maintained for a year, until July 10, 2021. This will allow badly needed humanitarian aid to continue flowing to several million Syrians living in the insurgent region of Idlib, which the Syrian regime does not control. For weeks, Russia, Syria's most important ally, has been demanding an end to the use of the Bab al-Salam border crossing, which leads to the Aleppo region in northern Syria. European countries and the US had wanted to maintain both crossing points. "Russia controls this process," said Richard Gowan of the International Crisis Group think tank. "The drama and vetoes of the last week were a distraction as ultimately Russia was always going to force a settlement on roughly the terms we see today," he told AFP. The outcome of Saturday's vote is a notable failure for the United States, whose ambassador had called the maintenance of two border crossings a "red line." UN authorization allows the international body to distribute aid to displaced Syrians without Damascus's permission. But Russia and China argue that the authorization violates Syria's sovereignty, and that aid can increasingly be channeled through Syrian authorities. Western member states reject Russia's arguments, saying there is no credible alternative to the cross-border system and that Syrian bureaucracy and politics prevent an effective flow of aid in areas not controlled by the Syrian regime. Susannah Sirkin, of Physicians for Human Rights, called the UN system "the most viable channel to deliver aid to millions of Syrians in need." "Without it, civilians who rely on lifesaving assistance will be at the mercy of the Syrian government," which could block aid deliveries to areas under opposition control, she said. The closure of the Bab al-Salam crossing was also a setback for UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, who called in June for a one-year extension of the aid to include the two access points. In January, Moscow succeeded in having the crossing points reduced from four to two and in limiting the authorization to six months instead of a year. This week Russia and China exercised their veto rights as permanent members twice -- on Tuesday and Friday -- even as NGOs and Western countries accused them of politicizing a humanitarian issue. Friday's vetoes by Moscow and Beijing marked the 16th for Russia and 10th for China on texts linked to Syria since the war began in 2011. Dominican Ambassador Jose Singer said, "We are disappointed that once again, the Security Council has been unable to collectively and constructively address one of the greatest humanitarian tragedies of our time." But the German ambassador, Heiko Maas, said it was "good news for millions of Syrian men, women and children that the Security Council was ultimately able to agree on our compromise proposal."

UN restarts cross-border aid to Syria but shuts access point

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