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An anti-terrorism court in Lahore has sentenced Hafiz Saeed to 11 years in jail in two separate cases. The sentence runs concurrently, so he effectively has to spend a little more than 5 years in jail.

Hafiz Saeed was found guilty of 'being a member of a banned terrorist outfit', and for 'having the illegal property'. However,&nbsp;there is no mention of the terrorist acts he has committed.

Hafiz Saeed is the man who masterminded the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks, but he hasn't been punished for that.&nbsp;

This a superficial trial by Pakistan to appear as if it's acting against a global terrorist.&nbsp;

Pakistan has a sword hanging on its neck - the terror funding watchdog - FATF. In just days from now, the Financial Action Task Force will have a crucial meeting. And, FATF has been breathing down Pakistan's neck, they want Pakistan to act against terror financing. 
 
WATCH: Hafiz Saeed's conviction is a sham:&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

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At the moment, Pakistan is on the FATF grey list. It should be on the blacklist, but some countries have kept it out. Now, FATF is meeting to decide if Pakistan should be moved to the blacklist. And this sentencing is to avoid it.&nbsp;

In the last FATF assessment, the Imran Khan government had received a harsh rebuke for failing to crack down on terror financing. So it had to show some action and Islamabad came up with this farce.

Pakistan had no choice, the FATF scrutiny has worsened its financial troubles. The economy is in a shambles and after Pakistan was placed on the grey list, it became harder to get foreign loans.

And Pakistan needs loans, it is negotiating the release of the third instalment of funds from the IMF. There is also the talk of the resumption of the military training programme with the United States.

But the FATF designation handicaps Islamabad that brings us to the United States. In the early days of his presidency, Trump talked tough on Pakistan.

But, as the American President winds down his first term, his hard-line seems just bluster and Islamabad still remains in the picture because of the Afghan peace deal.

As Trump gears up to travel to India, his visit will be closely watched by Islamabad. It's an opportunity for the American President to call out Pakistan's action against Hafiz Saeed for what it is - a sham crackdown to escape the scrutiny of a global watchdog.

 
(Disclaimer: WION Edit is the channel's take on the big events of the world) 
&nbsp;

An anti-terrorism court in Lahore has sentenced Hafiz Saeed to 11 years in jail in two separate cases. The sentence runs concurrently, so he effectively has to spend a little more than 5 years in jail.

An anti-terrorism court in Lahore has sentenced Hafiz Saeed to 11 years in jail in two separate cases. The sentence runs concurrently, so he effectively has to spend a little more than 5 years in jail. Hafiz Saeed was found guilty of 'being a member of a banned terrorist outfit', and for 'having the illegal property'. However, there is no mention of the terrorist acts he has committed. Hafiz Saeed is the man who masterminded the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks, but he hasn't been punished for that. This a superficial trial by Pakistan to appear as if it's acting against a global terrorist. Pakistan has a sword hanging on its neck - the terror funding watchdog - FATF. In just days from now, the Financial Action Task Force will have a crucial meeting. And, FATF has been breathing down Pakistan's neck, they want Pakistan to act against terror financing. WATCH: Hafiz Saeed's conviction is a sham: × At the moment, Pakistan is on the FATF grey list. It should be on the blacklist, but some countries have kept it out. Now, FATF is meeting to decide if Pakistan should be moved to the blacklist. And this sentencing is to avoid it. In the last FATF assessment, the Imran Khan government had received a harsh rebuke for failing to crack down on terror financing. So it had to show some action and Islamabad came up with this farce. Pakistan had no choice, the FATF scrutiny has worsened its financial troubles. The economy is in a shambles and after Pakistan was placed on the grey list, it became harder to get foreign loans. And Pakistan needs loans, it is negotiating the release of the third instalment of funds from the IMF. There is also the talk of the resumption of the military training programme with the United States. But the FATF designation handicaps Islamabad that brings us to the United States. In the early days of his presidency, Trump talked tough on Pakistan. But, as the American President winds down his first term, his hard-line seems just bluster and Islamabad still remains in the picture because of the Afghan peace deal. As Trump gears up to travel to India, his visit will be closely watched by Islamabad. It's an opportunity for the American President to call out Pakistan's action against Hafiz Saeed for what it is - a sham crackdown to escape the scrutiny of a global watchdog. (Disclaimer: WION Edit is the channel's take on the big events of the world)

WION Edit: Why Hafiz Saeed's conviction is an eyewash

Pakistan's government has approved a hefty subsidy package in a bid to offset the spiralling costs of basic food staples that threaten to undermine Prime Minister Imran Khan.

The move comes as the government already faces mounting pressure over inflation, tax increases, the devaluation of the rupee and other woes.

Khan's finance advisor Hafeez Sheikh said Wednesday the government had approved a five-month, 10 billion rupees ($64.8 million) package to alleviate the "soaring prices" of basic commodities, including food items such as wheat flour and sugar.

Under the package, some five million poorer Pakistanis would be able to buy discounted basics through the state-run Utility Stores Corporation (USC), which operates stores across the country.&nbsp;

The stores "will drastically bring down prices of at least 19 food items including wheat flour and sugar during the holy month of Ramadan" starting late April, Sheikh said.

The increasing food prices come as Pakistani farmers keep a wary eye on locust populations. Swarms of the insects have already attacked crops in the provinces of Punjab and Sindh.

Khan's opponents have seized on the food issue to attack the cricketer-turned-leader, who is about 18 months into his premiership.&nbsp;

Low tax yields and mounting debt, coupled with repeated devaluations of the rupee, soaring inflation and rising utility costs are driving discontent with Khan's administration.

Khan's administration says it has improved increasing fiscal and balance of payments deficits.

Pakistan's government has approved a hefty subsidy package in a bid to offset the spiralling costs of basic food staples that threaten to undermine Prime Minister Imran Khan.

Pakistan's government has approved a hefty subsidy package in a bid to offset the spiralling costs of basic food staples that threaten to undermine Prime Minister Imran Khan. The move comes as the government already faces mounting pressure over inflation, tax increases, the devaluation of the rupee and other woes. Khan's finance advisor Hafeez Sheikh said Wednesday the government had approved a five-month, 10 billion rupees ($64.8 million) package to alleviate the "soaring prices" of basic commodities, including food items such as wheat flour and sugar. Under the package, some five million poorer Pakistanis would be able to buy discounted basics through the state-run Utility Stores Corporation (USC), which operates stores across the country. The stores "will drastically bring down prices of at least 19 food items including wheat flour and sugar during the holy month of Ramadan" starting late April, Sheikh said. The increasing food prices come as Pakistani farmers keep a wary eye on locust populations. Swarms of the insects have already attacked crops in the provinces of Punjab and Sindh. Khan's opponents have seized on the food issue to attack the cricketer-turned-leader, who is about 18 months into his premiership. Low tax yields and mounting debt, coupled with repeated devaluations of the rupee, soaring inflation and rising utility costs are driving discontent with Khan's administration. Khan's administration says it has improved increasing fiscal and balance of payments deficits.

Pakistan unveils $64 million subsidy to tackle rising food prices

Hafiz Saeed: The man behind global terrorism

Pakistan's Anti-Terrorism Court on Wednesday convicted UN-designated terrorist Hafiz Saeed in the terror-financing case. The court sentenced Saeed for five-years and three-months in two terror financing cases. Fine of 150,000 was also imposed on Jamaat-ud-Dawa chief. Saeed is the mastermind of the 26/11 Mumbai attacks and was arrested 16 times in the past and released every time.

Pak court convicts 26/11 mastermind Hafiz Saeed in terror financing case

A Pakistani anti-terrorism court has sentenced Hafiz Muhammad Saeed, the founder of the Lashkar-e-Taiba armed group, to five and a three months in prison in two cases related to terrorism financing. watch report:

WION Dispatch: Pakistan acts against global terrorist Hafiz Saeed, 5 yrs & 3 months imprisonment

America's intelligence agency CIA spied on several countries including India and Pakistan. The latest report came weeks ahead of US President Donald Trump's visit to India. Meanwhile, Pakistan court convicted global terrorist Hafiz Saeed in terror financing case on Tuesday.

Here are the top ten stories of the day:

India, Pakistan and several other nations spied on by CIA through Swiss encryption firm

Encrypted messages from several countries were reportedly being read by the CIA for decades, including India, through its secretly-owned Switzerland-based company trusted by governments all over the world to keep the communications of their spies, soldiers and diplomats secret. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-pakistan-and-several-other-nations-spied-on-by-cia-through-swiss-encryption-firm-280330">Read more</a>

Pakistan court convicts 26/11 mastermind Hafiz Saeed in terror financing case

Pakistan's Anti-Terrorism Court on Wednesday convicted UN-designated terrorist Hafiz Saeed in two terror-financing cases. The court sentenced Saeed for five-years and three-months while a fine of Rs 150,000 was also imposed on Jamaat-ud-Dawa chief in each case.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-court-convicts-2611-mastermind-hafiz-saeed-in-terror-financing-case-280268">Read more</a>

Need some space? NASA has got the job for you

American astronauts are to ascend to the International Space Station – with an eye toward the Moon and Mars – as NASA announced that applications are being accepted from March 2 to 31 for the next class of Artemis Generation astronauts. Finalisation of candidates is to be completed by the middle of 2021.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nasa-expecting-applications-to-further-expeditions-to-the-moon-mars-and-beyond-280296">Read more</a>

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle to work with Goldman Sachs

Duke of Sussex Prince Harry is reportedly entering talks with controversial banking giant Goldman Sachs. The alleged negotiations between Sachs and the British royals could earn the latter upwards of £1billion in corporate deals.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/prince-harry-and-meghan-markle-to-work-with-goldman-sachs-280329">Read more</a>

US-Taliban breakthrough appears closer as Afghan President Ghani reports progress

The US and the Taliban appeared closer Wednesday to sealing a deal for an American troop withdrawal from Afghanistan, after Afghan President Ashraf Ghani reported "notable progress" in negotiations and a senior Taliban official said violence could be slashed in the coming days.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-taliban-breakthrough-appears-closer-as-ghani-reports-progress-280270">Read more</a>

Iran woman dies of suspected coronavirus infection

An Iranian woman has died of a suspected coronavirus infection, the state daily newspaper IRAN reported on Wednesday, without citing any sources.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-woman-dies-of-suspected-coronavirus-infection-280322">Read more</a>

Indonesia bans 600 nationals from returning home due to connections with ISIS

In a bold move, Indonesia has barred the return of more than 600 of its citizens as they are believed to be fighters of the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indonesia-bans-600-nationals-from-returning-home-due-to-connections-with-isis-280327">Read more</a>

Kremlin accuses Turkey of failing to 'neutralise terrorists' in Idlib

The Kremlin on Wednesday accused Turkey of failing to "neutralise terrorists" in Syria's last rebel bastion Idlib as tensions escalate with Ankara over the protracted conflict.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kremlin-accuses-turkey-of-failing-to-neutralise-terrorists-in-idlib-280328">&nbsp;Read more</a>

Google goes to court over EU antitrust fines

Google is seeking to overturn the first of three hefty European Union antitrust fines at Europe's second-highest court in a landmark case that could determine how EU enforcers take on US tech giants for abuse of market power.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/latest-business-news-google-goes-to-court-for-825-billion-euros-over-eu-antitrust-violations-280222">Read more</a>

Recurring radio signals heard from space after 16 days: Study

Scientists have observed a mysterious space signal deep from space which has been repeating in a 16-day cycle.

The findings are included in the pre-print of a paper on arXiv. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/recurring-radio-signals-heard-from-space-after-16-days-280186">Read more</a>

 
&nbsp;

America's intelligence agency CIA spied on several countries including India and Pakistan. The latest report came weeks ahead of US President Donald Trump's visit to India.

America's intelligence agency CIA spied on several countries including India and Pakistan. The latest report came weeks ahead of US President Donald Trump's visit to India. Meanwhile, Pakistan court convicted global terrorist Hafiz Saeed in terror financing case on Tuesday. Here are the top ten stories of the day: India, Pakistan and several other nations spied on by CIA through Swiss encryption firm Encrypted messages from several countries were reportedly being read by the CIA for decades, including India, through its secretly-owned Switzerland-based company trusted by governments all over the world to keep the communications of their spies, soldiers and diplomats secret. Read more Pakistan court convicts 26/11 mastermind Hafiz Saeed in terror financing case Pakistan's Anti-Terrorism Court on Wednesday convicted UN-designated terrorist Hafiz Saeed in two terror-financing cases. The court sentenced Saeed for five-years and three-months while a fine of Rs 150,000 was also imposed on Jamaat-ud-Dawa chief in each case. Read more Need some space? NASA has got the job for you American astronauts are to ascend to the International Space Station – with an eye toward the Moon and Mars – as NASA announced that applications are being accepted from March 2 to 31 for the next class of Artemis Generation astronauts. Finalisation of candidates is to be completed by the middle of 2021. Read more Prince Harry and Meghan Markle to work with Goldman Sachs Duke of Sussex Prince Harry is reportedly entering talks with controversial banking giant Goldman Sachs. The alleged negotiations between Sachs and the British royals could earn the latter upwards of £1billion in corporate deals. Read more US-Taliban breakthrough appears closer as Afghan President Ghani reports progress The US and the Taliban appeared closer Wednesday to sealing a deal for an American troop withdrawal from Afghanistan, after Afghan President Ashraf Ghani reported "notable progress" in negotiations and a senior Taliban official said violence could be slashed in the coming days. Read more Iran woman dies of suspected coronavirus infection An Iranian woman has died of a suspected coronavirus infection, the state daily newspaper IRAN reported on Wednesday, without citing any sources. Read more Indonesia bans 600 nationals from returning home due to connections with ISIS In a bold move, Indonesia has barred the return of more than 600 of its citizens as they are believed to be fighters of the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria. Read more Kremlin accuses Turkey of failing to 'neutralise terrorists' in Idlib The Kremlin on Wednesday accused Turkey of failing to "neutralise terrorists" in Syria's last rebel bastion Idlib as tensions escalate with Ankara over the protracted conflict. Read more Google goes to court over EU antitrust fines Google is seeking to overturn the first of three hefty European Union antitrust fines at Europe's second-highest court in a landmark case that could determine how EU enforcers take on US tech giants for abuse of market power. Read more Recurring radio signals heard from space after 16 days: Study Scientists have observed a mysterious space signal deep from space which has been repeating in a 16-day cycle. The findings are included in the pre-print of a paper on arXiv. Read more

Top 10 world news today: Hafiz Saeed convicted, US-Taliban talks, Idlib crisis and more

Pakistan's Anti-Terrorism Court on Wednesday convicted <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-court-convicts-2611-mastermind-hafiz-saeed-in-terror-financing-case-280268">UN-designated terrorist Hafiz Saeed</a> in two&nbsp;terror-financing cases. The court sentenced Saeed for five-years and three-months while a fine of Rs 150,000 was also&nbsp;imposed on Jamaat-ud-Dawa chief in each case.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-accords-vip-treatment-to-un-designated-global-terrorist-hafiz-saeed-279475">Saeed is the mastermind of the 26/11 Mumbai attacks</a> and was arrested 16 times in the past and released every time.&nbsp;

The court had earlier reserved its verdict in the two cases on February 6.

In July last year, the top 13 members of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-court-defers-verdict-against-mumbai-terror-attack-mastermind-hafiz-saeed-279461">Jamaat-ud-Dawa</a> (JuD) were allegedly financing terrorism from the massive funds collected through non-profit organisations and trusts including Al-Anfaal Trust, Dawatul Irshad Trust, Muaz Bin Jabal Trust including Saeed who was booked in nearly two dozen cases for terror financing and money laundering under Pakistan's Anti-Terrorism Act (ATA), 1997.

Watch: Pakistan gives VIP treatment to global terrorist Hafiz Saeed

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Subsequently, Saeed was arrested by the Punjab counter-terrorism department on charges of terror financing while he was travelling from Lahore to Gujranwala.

A total of 23 FIRs were filed against 13 individuals belonging to the JuD, Lashkar-e-Taiba and Falah-i-Insaniyat foundation. Eleven of these 23 FIRs directly named Hafiz Saeed as the culprit.

In August last year, charge sheet in the cases were filed while the anti-terror court in Lahore commenced the hearing on November 30 last year.

 
(With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan's Anti-Terrorism Court on Wednesday convicted UN-designated terrorist Hafiz Saeed in two terror-financing cases. The court sentenced Saeed for five-years and three-months while a fine of Rs 150,000 was also imposed on Jamaat-ud-Dawa chief in each case.

Pakistan's Anti-Terrorism Court on Wednesday convicted UN-designated terrorist Hafiz Saeed in two terror-financing cases. The court sentenced Saeed for five-years and three-months while a fine of Rs 150,000 was also imposed on Jamaat-ud-Dawa chief in each case. Saeed is the mastermind of the 26/11 Mumbai attacks and was arrested 16 times in the past and released every time. The court had earlier reserved its verdict in the two cases on February 6. In July last year, the top 13 members of the Jamaat-ud-Dawa (JuD) were allegedly financing terrorism from the massive funds collected through non-profit organisations and trusts including Al-Anfaal Trust, Dawatul Irshad Trust, Muaz Bin Jabal Trust including Saeed who was booked in nearly two dozen cases for terror financing and money laundering under Pakistan's Anti-Terrorism Act (ATA), 1997. Watch: Pakistan gives VIP treatment to global terrorist Hafiz Saeed × Subsequently, Saeed was arrested by the Punjab counter-terrorism department on charges of terror financing while he was travelling from Lahore to Gujranwala. A total of 23 FIRs were filed against 13 individuals belonging to the JuD, Lashkar-e-Taiba and Falah-i-Insaniyat foundation. Eleven of these 23 FIRs directly named Hafiz Saeed as the culprit. In August last year, charge sheet in the cases were filed while the anti-terror court in Lahore commenced the hearing on November 30 last year. (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan court convicts 26/11 mastermind Hafiz Saeed in terror financing case

Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) of Pakistan has delayed the verdict against Mumbai attack mastermind and proscribed Jamaat-ud-Dawah (JuD) chief Hafiz Saeed in two terror financing cases.

Will 26/11 mastermind Hafiz Saeed be convicted?

The verdict against UN-designated global terrorist <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-hafiz-saeed-pleads-not-guilty-on-terrorism-financing-charges-269394">Hafiz Saeed</a>&nbsp;in the terror financing case is expected to come today.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-hafiz-saeed-pleads-not-guilty-on-terrorism-financing-charges-269394">Anti-Terrorism Court</a> (ATC) judge Arshad Hussain Bhatta is expected to announce the judgement, according to reports.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-accords-vip-treatment-to-un-designated-global-terrorist-hafiz-saeed-279475">Pakistan accords VIP treatment to UN-designated global terrorist Hafiz Saeed&nbsp;</a>

A Lahore court had earlier delayed the verdict of two terror-financing cases against 26/11 mastermind Hafiz Saeed.

Pakistan has arrested Saeed over a dozen time but hasn't&nbsp;convicted the UN-designated terrorist.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-court-to-announce-verdict-against-terrorist-hafiz-saeed-on-february-8-279249">Pakistan court to announce verdict against terrorist Hafiz Saeed on February 8</a>

In July last year, the top 13 members of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-hafiz-saeed-pleads-not-guilty-on-terrorism-financing-charges-269394">Jamaat-ud-Dawa</a> (JuD) were allegedly financing terrorism from the massive funds collected through non-profit organisations and trusts including Al-Anfaal Trust, Dawatul Irshad Trust, Muaz Bin Jabal Trust including Saeed who was&nbsp;booked in nearly two dozen cases for terror financing and money laundering under Pakistan's Anti-Terrorism Act (ATA), 1997.

Subsequently, Saeed was arrested by the Punjab counter-terrorism department on charges of terror financing while he was travelling from Lahore to Gujranwala.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-hafiz-saeed-pleads-not-guilty-on-terrorism-financing-charges-269394">Hafiz Saeed pleads not guilty on terrorism financing charges</a>

A total of 23 FIRs&nbsp;were filed against 13 individuals belonging to the JuD, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-hafiz-saeed-pleads-not-guilty-on-terrorism-financing-charges-269394">Lashker-e-Taiba</a> and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-hafiz-saeed-pleads-not-guilty-on-terrorism-financing-charges-269394">Falah-i-Insaniyat</a> foundation. Eleven&nbsp;of these 23 FIRs&nbsp;directly named Hafiz Saeed as the culprit.

In August last year,&nbsp;chargesheet in the cases were filed while the anti-terror court in Lahore commenced the hearing on November 30 last year.

Acting swiftly the anti-terror court&nbsp;Lahore had indicted Saeed on December 11 and the cases were heard on a daily bases from December 16.

In December, twenty of&nbsp;the ATC&nbsp;at Gujranwala too indicted Saeed under the charges of funding terror groups through shell organisations.

Both the cases were later clubbed together and heard at the Lahore ATC.

The defence completed its argument on January 30, 2020 while the prosecution carried on with its argument.

The hearings had concluded on February 6.&nbsp;Meanwhile,&nbsp;Saeed remains in the central jail in Lahore.

Saeed is&nbsp;the mastermind of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-hafiz-saeed-pleads-not-guilty-on-terrorism-financing-charges-269394">26/11 Mumbai</a> attacks and was&nbsp;arrested 16 times in the past and released every time.&nbsp;

The verdict against UN-designated global terrorist Hafiz Saeed in the terror financing case is expected to come today. Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) judge Arshad Hussain Bhatta is expected to announce the judgement, according to reports.

The verdict against UN-designated global terrorist Hafiz Saeed in the terror financing case is expected to come today. Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) judge Arshad Hussain Bhatta is expected to announce the judgement, according to reports. Also read: Pakistan accords VIP treatment to UN-designated global terrorist Hafiz Saeed A Lahore court had earlier delayed the verdict of two terror-financing cases against 26/11 mastermind Hafiz Saeed. Pakistan has arrested Saeed over a dozen time but hasn't convicted the UN-designated terrorist. Also read: Pakistan court to announce verdict against terrorist Hafiz Saeed on February 8 In July last year, the top 13 members of the Jamaat-ud-Dawa (JuD) were allegedly financing terrorism from the massive funds collected through non-profit organisations and trusts including Al-Anfaal Trust, Dawatul Irshad Trust, Muaz Bin Jabal Trust including Saeed who was booked in nearly two dozen cases for terror financing and money laundering under Pakistan's Anti-Terrorism Act (ATA), 1997. Subsequently, Saeed was arrested by the Punjab counter-terrorism department on charges of terror financing while he was travelling from Lahore to Gujranwala. Also read: Hafiz Saeed pleads not guilty on terrorism financing charges A total of 23 FIRs were filed against 13 individuals belonging to the JuD, Lashker-e-Taiba and Falah-i-Insaniyat foundation. Eleven of these 23 FIRs directly named Hafiz Saeed as the culprit. In August last year, chargesheet in the cases were filed while the anti-terror court in Lahore commenced the hearing on November 30 last year. Acting swiftly the anti-terror court Lahore had indicted Saeed on December 11 and the cases were heard on a daily bases from December 16. In December, twenty of the ATC at Gujranwala too indicted Saeed under the charges of funding terror groups through shell organisations. Both the cases were later clubbed together and heard at the Lahore ATC. The defence completed its argument on January 30, 2020 while the prosecution carried on with its argument. The hearings had concluded on February 6. Meanwhile, Saeed remains in the central jail in Lahore. Saeed is the mastermind of the 26/11 Mumbai attacks and was arrested 16 times in the past and released every time.

Pakistan court verdict on Hafiz Saeed's terror financing case today

An Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) in Lahore on Thursday reserved its verdicts against Mumbai attack mastermind and proscribed Jamaat-ud-Dawah (JuD) chief Hafiz Saeed in two terror financing cases, Pakistani media reported. ATC judge Arshad Hussain Bhatta will announce the verdicts in both cases on today (February 8).

Anti-Terrorism Court of Pakistan to pronounce verdict on Hafiz Saeed today

In a shocking turn of events, Pakistan authorities accorded VIP treatment to UN-designated global terrorist Hafiz Saeed in Pakistan. Saeed was brought in two identical bulletproof vehicles used by diplomats and dignitaries in Pakistan.

Pakistan gives VIP treatment to global terrorist Hafiz Saeed

In a shocking turn of events, Pakistan authorities accorded VIP treatment to UN-designated global terrorist Hafiz Saeed in Pakistan.

Exclusive pictures of armoured vehicles in which Saeed was brought to court accessed by WION proved that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-court-defers-verdict-against-mumbai-terror-attack-mastermind-hafiz-saeed-279461">26/11 terror attack mastermind</a> was accorded same privilege usually reserved for VIPs and visiting dignitaries.

Saeed was brought in two identical bulletproof vehicles used by diplomats and dignitaries in Pakistan.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Hafiz Saeed verdict delayed to February 11

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&nbsp;

Prisoners of such crimes are usually brought in a police Armored Personnel Carrier(APC). Saeed was also brought in an APC earlier but today was different. This comes at a time when his conviction could have been announced.

In Pakistan, former prime ministers have been brought in APC. Former PMs Nawaz Sharif, Shahid Khaqan Abbasi, former President Asif Ali Zardari and of late former interior minister Ahsan Iqbal have not been given such protocol, the one that was accorded to Saeed today at the Lahore anti-terror court.

Earlier Sharif and Zardari were accorded similar treatment after they had requested but what shocked many today was the treatment given to Saeed without even he requesting for the same. &nbsp;&nbsp;

In a shocking turn of events, Pakistan authorities accorded VIP treatment to UN-designated global terrorist Hafiz Saeed in Pakistan. Exclusive pictures of armoured vehicles in which Saeed was brought to court accessed by WION proved that 26/11 terror attack mastermind was accorded same privilege usually reserved for VIPs and visiting dignitaries.

In a shocking turn of events, Pakistan authorities accorded VIP treatment to UN-designated global terrorist Hafiz Saeed in Pakistan. Exclusive pictures of armoured vehicles in which Saeed was brought to court accessed by WION proved that 26/11 terror attack mastermind was accorded same privilege usually reserved for VIPs and visiting dignitaries. Saeed was brought in two identical bulletproof vehicles used by diplomats and dignitaries in Pakistan. Watch: Hafiz Saeed verdict delayed to February 11 × Prisoners of such crimes are usually brought in a police Armored Personnel Carrier(APC). Saeed was also brought in an APC earlier but today was different. This comes at a time when his conviction could have been announced. In Pakistan, former prime ministers have been brought in APC. Former PMs Nawaz Sharif, Shahid Khaqan Abbasi, former President Asif Ali Zardari and of late former interior minister Ahsan Iqbal have not been given such protocol, the one that was accorded to Saeed today at the Lahore anti-terror court. Earlier Sharif and Zardari were accorded similar treatment after they had requested but what shocked many today was the treatment given to Saeed without even he requesting for the same.

Pakistan accords VIP treatment to UN-designated global terrorist Hafiz Saeed 

Pakistan special anti-terror court on Saturday set February 11 as the next date for announcing&nbsp;the verdict in terror financing cases against Mumbai terror attack mastermind Hafiz Saeed.

Earlier, high drama prevailed at the anti-terror court in Lahore as it announced new date to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-court-to-announce-verdict-against-terrorist-hafiz-saeed-on-february-8-279249">pronounce the verdic</a>t in the contentious case.&nbsp;

Reporters were barred from attending the hearing even as Saeed was produced in the court amid heightened security.&nbsp;

Saeed moved a plea seeking a delay in the announcement of the verdict. In his plea, he stated&nbsp;that pending cases should be heard at first and added, that verdict on all the cases should be announced together.

Prosecution Lawyer Abdur Rauf Wattoo argued that since the trial in two cases has concluded, the court should announce the verdict on those&nbsp;two cases without any delay.

The court, however, deferred the matter until February 11, 2020.&nbsp;

Pakistan special anti-terror court on Saturday set February 11 as the next date for announcing the verdict in terror financing cases against Mumbai terror attack mastermind Hafiz Saeed.

Pakistan special anti-terror court on Saturday set February 11 as the next date for announcing the verdict in terror financing cases against Mumbai terror attack mastermind Hafiz Saeed. Earlier, high drama prevailed at the anti-terror court in Lahore as it announced new date to pronounce the verdict in the contentious case. Reporters were barred from attending the hearing even as Saeed was produced in the court amid heightened security. Saeed moved a plea seeking a delay in the announcement of the verdict. In his plea, he stated that pending cases should be heard at first and added, that verdict on all the cases should be announced together. Prosecution Lawyer Abdur Rauf Wattoo argued that since the trial in two cases has concluded, the court should announce the verdict on those two cases without any delay. The court, however, deferred the matter until February 11, 2020.

Pakistan court defers verdict against Mumbai terror attack mastermind Hafiz Saeed

Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) of Pakistan has delayed the verdict against Mumbai attack mastermind and proscribed Jamaat-ud-Dawah (JuD) chief Hafiz Saeed in two terror financing cases. The verdict was supposed to be given today (February 8) and is now delayed to February 11.

Pakistan: Hafiz Saeed verdict delayed to February 11

Hafiz Saeed present at Anti-Terrorism Court of Pakistan

An Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) in Lahore on Thursday reserved its verdicts against Mumbai attack mastermind and proscribed <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-hafiz-saeed-pleads-not-guilty-on-terrorism-financing-charges-269394">Jamaat-ud-Dawah</a> (JuD) chief <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-hafiz-saeed-pleads-not-guilty-on-terrorism-financing-charges-269394">Hafiz Saeed</a> in two terror financing cases, Pakistani media reported.

ATC judge Arshad Hussain Bhatta will announce the verdicts in both cases on February 8, according to reports.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-hafiz-saeed-pleads-not-guilty-on-terrorism-financing-charges-269394">Pakistan: Hafiz Saeed pleads not guilty on terrorism financing charges</a>

In July last year, the top 13 members of the JuD, including <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-hafiz-saeed-pleads-not-guilty-on-terrorism-financing-charges-269394">Saeed</a>, were booked in nearly two dozen cases for terror financing and money laundering under Pakistan's <a href="Pakistan should do more to take non-reversible action against terror: United Kingdom">Anti-Terrorism Act</a> (ATA), 1997.

Subsequently, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-hafiz-saeed-pleads-not-guilty-on-terrorism-financing-charges-269394">Saeed </a>was arrested by the Punjab Counter-Terrorism Department on charges of terror financing while he was travelling from Lahore to Gujranwala.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/why-pakistans-heart-bleeds-for-hafiz-saeed-252370">Why Pakistan’s heart bleeds for Hafiz Saeed?</a>

According to the CTD, JuD was financing terrorism from the massive funds collected through non-profit organisations and trusts including Al-Anfaal Trust, Dawatul Irshad Trust, Muaz Bin Jabal Trust, etc.

In December, last year, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-hafiz-saeed-pleads-not-guilty-on-terrorism-financing-charges-269394">Saeed </a>was indicted on charges of terror financing.

The indictment came ahead of a meeting by the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-pakistan-may-end-up-being-pushed-in-financial-action-task-force-fatf-grey-list-256100">Financial Action Task Force </a>(FATF) later this year which will decide whether Pakistan will be blacklisted over its failure to curb terror funding.

An Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) in Lahore on Thursday reserved its verdicts against Mumbai attack mastermind and proscribed Jamaat-ud-Dawah (JuD) chief Hafiz Saeed in two terror financing cases, Pakistani media reported.

An Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) in Lahore on Thursday reserved its verdicts against Mumbai attack mastermind and proscribed Jamaat-ud-Dawah (JuD) chief Hafiz Saeed in two terror financing cases, Pakistani media reported. ATC judge Arshad Hussain Bhatta will announce the verdicts in both cases on February 8, according to reports. Also read: Pakistan: Hafiz Saeed pleads not guilty on terrorism financing charges In July last year, the top 13 members of the JuD, including Saeed, were booked in nearly two dozen cases for terror financing and money laundering under Pakistan's Anti-Terrorism Act (ATA), 1997. Subsequently, Saeed was arrested by the Punjab Counter-Terrorism Department on charges of terror financing while he was travelling from Lahore to Gujranwala. Also read: Why Pakistan’s heart bleeds for Hafiz Saeed? According to the CTD, JuD was financing terrorism from the massive funds collected through non-profit organisations and trusts including Al-Anfaal Trust, Dawatul Irshad Trust, Muaz Bin Jabal Trust, etc. In December, last year, Saeed was indicted on charges of terror financing. The indictment came ahead of a meeting by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) later this year which will decide whether Pakistan will be blacklisted over its failure to curb terror funding.

Pakistan court to announce verdict against terrorist Hafiz Saeed on February 8

Mumbai terror attack mastermind and Jamaat-ud-Dawa (JuD) chief, Hafiz Saeed on Friday pleaded not guilty on Friday in a second case on charges of financing terrorism, news agency Reuters reported while quoting lawyers.

Arrested by Pakistan's counterterrorism police in July, Saeed was presented in an anti-terrorism court in Pakistan's Lahore city today. He was booked in nearly two dozen cases for terror financing and money laundering under Pakistan's Anti-Terrorism Act (ATA), 1997.

Founder of Lashkar-e-Taiba, Saied was indicted on similar charges in another case on December 11.

The indictments came ahead of a meeting of world financial watchdog Financial Action Task Force (FATF) early next year that will decide whether to blacklist Pakistan for its failure to curb terror financing.

The global taskforce kept the country on its grey list for an extended period up to February 2020 and warned that Islamabad would be blacklisted if it did not comply with the remaining 22 out of 27 points related to anti-money laundering and counter-terrorist financing.

&nbsp;

Mumbai terror attack mastermind and Jamaat-ud-Dawa (JuD) chief, Hafiz Saeed on Friday pleaded not guilty on Friday in a second case on charges of financing terrorism, news agency Reuters reported while quoting lawyers.

Mumbai terror attack mastermind and Jamaat-ud-Dawa (JuD) chief, Hafiz Saeed on Friday pleaded not guilty on Friday in a second case on charges of financing terrorism, news agency Reuters reported while quoting lawyers. Arrested by Pakistan's counterterrorism police in July, Saeed was presented in an anti-terrorism court in Pakistan's Lahore city today. He was booked in nearly two dozen cases for terror financing and money laundering under Pakistan's Anti-Terrorism Act (ATA), 1997. Founder of Lashkar-e-Taiba, Saied was indicted on similar charges in another case on December 11. The indictments came ahead of a meeting of world financial watchdog Financial Action Task Force (FATF) early next year that will decide whether to blacklist Pakistan for its failure to curb terror financing. The global taskforce kept the country on its grey list for an extended period up to February 2020 and warned that Islamabad would be blacklisted if it did not comply with the remaining 22 out of 27 points related to anti-money laundering and counter-terrorist financing.

Pakistan: Hafiz Saeed pleads not guilty on terrorism financing charges

An anti-terrorism court in Pakistan on December 12 indicted Mumbai terror attack mastermind Hafiz Saeed on terror financing charges. On July 17, the Punjab Police Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) registered 23 FIRs against Saeed and his accomplices on charges of "terror funding" in various cities in the province of Punjab and arrested the Jammat-ud-Dawah (JuD) chief.

Hafiz Saeed indicted by Pakistan Court on terror financing charges

An anti-terrorism court in Lahore on Wednesday indicted Mumbai terror attack mastermind and Jamaat-ud-Dawa (JuD) chief, Hafiz Saeed, on terror financing charges.

Judge Malik Arshad Bhutta indicted Saeed and four other JuD leaders who were booked in July in offences related to terror financing, Pakistan media reported.

Later in the day Judge, who heard the case, adjourned the proceedings until Thursday.

Earlier on Saturday, the court had delayed the indictment due to the unavailability of one of the accused in a case filed by the Punjab Counterterrorism Department (CTD) on charges of terror financing.

In July this year, the top 13 members of the JuD, including Saeed, were booked in nearly two dozen cases for terror financing and money laundering under Pakistan`s Anti-Terrorism Act (ATA), 1997.

The CTD, which registered the cases in five cities of Punjab province, had said that JuD was financing terror from massive funds collected through non-profit organisations and trusts.&nbsp;

These organisations were subsequently banned in April after the CTD had found that they had links with the JuD and its top leadership.

Subsequently, Saeed was arrested from Gujranwala on charges of terror financing by the Punjab CTD. He is currently lodged at Kot Lakhpat Jail in Lahore.

The indictment comes ahead of a meeting by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) next year which will decide whether Pakistan will be blacklisted over its failure to curb terror funding.

The global taskforce kept the country on its grey list for an extended period up to February 2020 and warned that Islamabad would be blacklisted if it did not comply with the remaining 22 out of 27 points related to anti-money laundering and counter-terrorist financing.&nbsp;

(With inputs from ANI)

An anti-terrorism court in Lahore on Wednesday indicted Mumbai terror attack mastermind and Jamaat-ud-Dawa (JuD) chief, Hafiz Saeed, on terror financing charges.

An anti-terrorism court in Lahore on Wednesday indicted Mumbai terror attack mastermind and Jamaat-ud-Dawa (JuD) chief, Hafiz Saeed, on terror financing charges. Judge Malik Arshad Bhutta indicted Saeed and four other JuD leaders who were booked in July in offences related to terror financing, Pakistan media reported. Later in the day Judge, who heard the case, adjourned the proceedings until Thursday. Earlier on Saturday, the court had delayed the indictment due to the unavailability of one of the accused in a case filed by the Punjab Counterterrorism Department (CTD) on charges of terror financing. In July this year, the top 13 members of the JuD, including Saeed, were booked in nearly two dozen cases for terror financing and money laundering under Pakistan`s Anti-Terrorism Act (ATA), 1997. The CTD, which registered the cases in five cities of Punjab province, had said that JuD was financing terror from massive funds collected through non-profit organisations and trusts. These organisations were subsequently banned in April after the CTD had found that they had links with the JuD and its top leadership. Subsequently, Saeed was arrested from Gujranwala on charges of terror financing by the Punjab CTD. He is currently lodged at Kot Lakhpat Jail in Lahore. The indictment comes ahead of a meeting by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) next year which will decide whether Pakistan will be blacklisted over its failure to curb terror funding. The global taskforce kept the country on its grey list for an extended period up to February 2020 and warned that Islamabad would be blacklisted if it did not comply with the remaining 22 out of 27 points related to anti-money laundering and counter-terrorist financing. (With inputs from ANI)

Pakistan court indicts Mumbai terror attack mastermind Hafiz Saeed in terror financing case

A rally was organised outside the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/representatives-of-pak-embassy-abu-dhabi-to-attend-oic-meet-200551">Pakistan embassy</a> in Washington on Sunday to protest against Islamabad sponsored terrorism.

Two congressional candidates from Virginia and American veterans who fought and worked in Afghanistan were among those who participated in the rally 'Veterans Rally against terror state Pakistan'.

Demonstrators held placards and chanted slogans against Pakistan for sponsoring terrorism. A few protesters were seen holding a banner that read, 'Pakistan has been involved in more than 90 per cent of all terror attack that has happened in the past 20 years within the United States'.

Pakistan has been repeatedly asked by the international community to take action against state-sponsored terrorism.

The demonstrators also held posters demanding <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/2611-mumbai-attacks-pm-narendra-modi-pens-emotional-letter-to-israeli-survivor-moshe-265779">26/11 Mumbai </a>attack culprits to be brought to justice.

Mumbai had come to a standstill <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/11-year-of-2611-mumbai-attack-see-how-the-world-cinema-has-narrated-the-deadliest-memories-264627">11 years ago</a> on November 26 when 10 Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terrorists who came to the city via sea route from Pakistan carried out a series of coordinated shooting and bombing attacks that killed 166 people and injured over 300 in India's financial capital.

India has repeatedly asked Pakistan to take action against the terrorist groups operating from its soil. However, the architects of Mumbai attack like Hafiz Saeed, Maulana Zakiur Rehman Lakhvi and Sufayan Zafar continue to receive Pakistan's military patronage.

A rally was organised outside the Pakistan embassy in Washington on Sunday to protest against Islamabad sponsored terrorism. Two congressional candidates from Virginia and American veterans who fought and worked in Afghanistan were among those who participated in the rally 'Veterans Rally against terror state Pakistan'.

A rally was organised outside the Pakistan embassy in Washington on Sunday to protest against Islamabad sponsored terrorism. Two congressional candidates from Virginia and American veterans who fought and worked in Afghanistan were among those who participated in the rally 'Veterans Rally against terror state Pakistan'. Demonstrators held placards and chanted slogans against Pakistan for sponsoring terrorism. A few protesters were seen holding a banner that read, 'Pakistan has been involved in more than 90 per cent of all terror attack that has happened in the past 20 years within the United States'. Pakistan has been repeatedly asked by the international community to take action against state-sponsored terrorism. The demonstrators also held posters demanding 26/11 Mumbai attack culprits to be brought to justice. Mumbai had come to a standstill 11 years ago on November 26 when 10 Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terrorists who came to the city via sea route from Pakistan carried out a series of coordinated shooting and bombing attacks that killed 166 people and injured over 300 in India's financial capital. India has repeatedly asked Pakistan to take action against the terrorist groups operating from its soil. However, the architects of Mumbai attack like Hafiz Saeed, Maulana Zakiur Rehman Lakhvi and Sufayan Zafar continue to receive Pakistan's military patronage.

US: Rally outside Pakistan embassy against Islamabad sponsored terrorism

Breather for 26/11 attack mastermind Hafiz Saeed. India slams Pakistan on Saeed.

Breather for 26/11 attack mastermind

A Lahore court on Saturday deferred Jama'at-ud-Da'wah (JuD) chief Hafiz Saeed's indictment in terror financing case as co-accused Malik Zafar was not present at court.

A Lahore court on Saturday deferred Jama'at-ud-Da'wah (JuD) chief Hafiz Saeed's indictment in terror financing case as co-accused Malik Zafar was not present at court. Court has now fixed December 11 as next date of hearing in order to frame charges against Saeed and the co-accused in the case. Saeed was produced before the Lahore anti-terrorism court in connection with a terror funding case. Saeed was booked under a dozen charges of terror financing on July 3 and arrested. He was charge-sheeted in misuse of property and using it for terror funding in Mandi Bahauddin on August 7 and the trial is currently underway. He was to be indicted in the Lahore court today. In all, 23 cases have been registered against 13 individuals and Saeed is directly involved in 11 cases. Cases against the leadership of JuD (Jamat ud Dawa), LeT (Lashkar-e-Taiba) & FIF (Falah-i-Insaniyat Foundation) for making assets from terrorism financing through the following Trusts/NPOs: Dawat ul Irshad Trust, Muaz Bin Jabal Trust, Al-Anfaal Trust, Al Hamd Trust, Al Madina Foundation Trust.

Lahore court defers Hafiz Saeed's indictment in terror funding case 

Hafiz Saeed, the founder of terror outfit Jamat-ud-Dawah (JuD), will be prosecuted for terror financing charges by an Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) in Pakistan this month. The Lahore ATC held a hearing in this regard on Saturday and fixed the date as December 7 for the indictment for Hafiz Saeed and the others.

Pakistan: Hafiz Saeed to face trial next month

An Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) in Lahore announced on Saturday that it would "indict" the Mumbai terror attack mastermind Hafiz Saeed and seven other members of the banned outfit Jamaat-ud-Dawa (JuD) on December 7 on charges of terror financing, Pakistan media reported.

The December 7 date was fixed by the ATC judge Malik Arshad Bhutta during a hearing against Saeed and his accomplices -- Hafiz Abdul Rehman Makki, Hafiz Abdul Salam bin Mohammad, Professor Zafar Iqbal, Mohammad Ashraf, Mohammad Yahya Aziz, among others -- on terror financing, reported Dawn.

During the hearing, the court was provided with the copies of nearly two dozen cases registered against the JuD leaders, said Deputy Prosecutor General Abdul Rauf Watoo.

"As per the law, after the provision of copies to the court, the trial begins. The first step of a trial is an indictment," explained DPG Watoo.

The state's counsel requested the court to hold daily hearings since the copies had been provided, following which the lawyers for the JuD leaders argued that they should be given a week's time so that they can carefully examine the documents and prepare their arguments.

Back in July, the top 13 members of the JuD including Saeed were booked in nearly two dozen cases for terror financing and money laundering under Pakistan's Anti-Terrorism Act (ATA), 1997.

Subsequently, Saeed was arrested from Gujranwala on charges of terror financing by the Punjab Counterterrorism Department (CTD).

An Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) in Lahore announced on Saturday that it would "indict" the Mumbai terror attack mastermind Hafiz Saeed and seven other members of the banned outfit Jamaat-ud-Dawa (JuD) on December 7 on charges of terror financing, Pakistan media reported.

An Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) in Lahore announced on Saturday that it would "indict" the Mumbai terror attack mastermind Hafiz Saeed and seven other members of the banned outfit Jamaat-ud-Dawa (JuD) on December 7 on charges of terror financing, Pakistan media reported. The December 7 date was fixed by the ATC judge Malik Arshad Bhutta during a hearing against Saeed and his accomplices -- Hafiz Abdul Rehman Makki, Hafiz Abdul Salam bin Mohammad, Professor Zafar Iqbal, Mohammad Ashraf, Mohammad Yahya Aziz, among others -- on terror financing, reported Dawn. During the hearing, the court was provided with the copies of nearly two dozen cases registered against the JuD leaders, said Deputy Prosecutor General Abdul Rauf Watoo. "As per the law, after the provision of copies to the court, the trial begins. The first step of a trial is an indictment," explained DPG Watoo. The state's counsel requested the court to hold daily hearings since the copies had been provided, following which the lawyers for the JuD leaders argued that they should be given a week's time so that they can carefully examine the documents and prepare their arguments. Back in July, the top 13 members of the JuD including Saeed were booked in nearly two dozen cases for terror financing and money laundering under Pakistan's Anti-Terrorism Act (ATA), 1997. Subsequently, Saeed was arrested from Gujranwala on charges of terror financing by the Punjab Counterterrorism Department (CTD).

Pakistan: Hafiz Saeed to be indicted in terror financing case on December 7

Pakistan has failed to "significantly limit" major terror outfits like Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) from funding, recruiting and training their fighters on its soil and has allowed candidates "overtly" affiliated with their front organisations to contest the general elections in July last year, according to a report released by the US State Department.

Pakistan has failed to "significantly limit" major terror outfits like Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) from funding, recruiting and training their fighters on its soil and has allowed candidates "overtly" affiliated with their front organisations to contest the general elections in July last year, according to a report released by the US State Department. According to the `Country Reports on Terrorism 2018`, Pakistan has failed to restrict the Afghan Taliban and the Haqqani Network from operating in safe havens on its soil, despite Islamabad`s open support for a political reconciliation between the Afghan Taliban and Afghan government.While the report noted Pakistan`s efforts in connection to the implementation of conditions laid down by Financial Action Task Force (FATF), it slammed the country for failing to uniformly implement UN sanctions against outfits like LeT and its affiliates. "Although the Pakistani government voiced support for political reconciliation between the Afghan government and the Afghan Taliban, it did not restrict the Afghan Taliban and the Haqqani Network (HQN) from operating in Pakistan-based safe havens and threatening the US and Afghan forces in Afghanistan," it said. "The government failed to significantly limit Lashkar e- Tayyiba (LeT) and Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) from raising money, recruiting, and training in Pakistan and allowed candidates overtly affiliated with LeT front organisations to contest the July general elections," the report said, referring to the Milli Muslim League (MML) founded by global terrorist Hafiz Saeed, which fielded candidates in the 2018 polls. The document highlighted significant terror attacks in Pakistan in 2018, which was conducted by several outfits like Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), Jamaat-ul-Ahrar (JuA), Islamic State`s Khorasan Province (ISIS-K), and the sectarian group Lashkar-e- Jhangvi al-Alami (LJA). "Pakistan experienced significant terrorist threats in 2018, although the number of attacks and casualties has continued to decrease from previous years. The major terrorist groups that focused on conducting attacks in Pakistan included Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), Jamaat-ul- Ahrar (JuA), Islamic State`s Khorasan Province (ISIS-K), and the sectarian group Lashkar-e- Jhangvi al-Alami (LJA). ISIS-K claimed several major attacks against Pakistani targets, some of which may have been conducted in collaboration with other terrorist groups," the report said. Terror groups conducted attacks against governmental, non-governmental, and diplomatic targets in Balochistan and Sindh provinces, it continued."Groups located in Pakistan, but focused on conducting attacks outside the country, included the Afghan Taliban, HQN, LeT and its affiliated front organisations, and JeM. Terrorists used a range of tactics to attack individuals, schools, markets, government institutions, and places of worship, including IEDs, VBIEDs, suicide bombings, targeted assassinations, and rocket-propelled grenades," the report underlined. The terror outfits targetted civilians, journalists, community leaders, security forces, law enforcement agents, and schools killing and injuring hundreds in 2018, the report noted adding, that religious minorities faced significant threats from the terror groups. The report said that Pakistan, being a member of the Asia/Pacific Group on Money Laundering (APG), a FATF-style regional body, agreed to implement international standards to combat money laundering, terrorism finance, and proliferation finance. While the country "criminalises terrorist financing through the Antiterrorism Act, the implementation remains uneven"."In June 2018, the FATF placed Pakistan on its `grey list` for deficiencies across its AML/CFT regimes, specifically citing concerns over Pakistan`s failure to fully implement the UN Security Council ISIL (Daesh) and al-Qaeda sanctions regime. FATF noted that UN-listed entities, including LeT and its affiliates, were not effectively prohibited from raising funds in Pakistan, or being denied financial services," it said."Although Pakistan`s laws technically comply with international AML/CFT standards, authorities failed to uniformly implement UN sanctions related to designated entities and individuals such as LeT and its affiliates, which continued to make use of economic resources and raise funds," the report noted.

Pak failed to 'significantly limit' funding, recruitment by LeT, JeM on its soil: US Report

The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) has retained Pakistan under the Grey List, warning Islamabad of serious actions for failing to check money laundering and terror financing.

Pakistan has failed to meet 22 out of 27 tasks to control funding to terror groups operating from its soil. FATF has now granted Islamabad time till February 2020 to fulfil the full action plan.

Pakistan escaped the blacklist with the backing of Turkey, Malaysia and China. India is clearly upset that Islamabad has been given another four months to achieve all the targets to get itself off the grey list.

As part of punitive action to express displeasure over Ankara's stance on the abrogation of Article 370 and support to Pakistan at FATF plenary in Paris, India has called off Prime Minister Narendra Modi's proposed visit to Turkey.

India is also weighing a range of diplomatic actions against Malaysia which may include restricting imports of palm oil and other goods.

If Islamabad fails to make significant progress in the next four months, it will join North Korea and Iran on the FATF blacklist which would have huge impact on its already fragile economy.&nbsp;

Since the abrogation of Article 370, Pakistan has been crying foul over Kashmir to seek the attention of global leaders, but most leaders supported India calling Kashmir a bilateral issue between the two neighbours.

Within hours of FATF Plenary, Pakistan tried to export terror into India violating the ceasefire along the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir. In retaliation, the Indian Army destroyed three terror camps in PoK.

The country has accused India of pushing Pakistan on the blacklist with the help of some countries. FATF 2020 deadline is critical for Pakistan. Rather than engaging in cross-border terrorism and blaming India for everything, Islamabad should take sustainable actions against terrorist groups within its territory. &nbsp;

There are high chances of Pakistan&nbsp;being formally blacklisted by FATF once the February 2020 deadline expires. The need of the hour is to address the issues of terror-funding and money laundering so that it doesn't miss last chance to exit the FATF grey list.

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL) &nbsp;

The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) has retained Pakistan under the Grey List, warning Islamabad of serious actions for failing to check money laundering and terror financing.

The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) has retained Pakistan under the Grey List, warning Islamabad of serious actions for failing to check money laundering and terror financing. Pakistan has failed to meet 22 out of 27 tasks to control funding to terror groups operating from its soil. FATF has now granted Islamabad time till February 2020 to fulfil the full action plan. Pakistan escaped the blacklist with the backing of Turkey, Malaysia and China. India is clearly upset that Islamabad has been given another four months to achieve all the targets to get itself off the grey list. As part of punitive action to express displeasure over Ankara's stance on the abrogation of Article 370 and support to Pakistan at FATF plenary in Paris, India has called off Prime Minister Narendra Modi's proposed visit to Turkey. India is also weighing a range of diplomatic actions against Malaysia which may include restricting imports of palm oil and other goods. If Islamabad fails to make significant progress in the next four months, it will join North Korea and Iran on the FATF blacklist which would have huge impact on its already fragile economy. Since the abrogation of Article 370, Pakistan has been crying foul over Kashmir to seek the attention of global leaders, but most leaders supported India calling Kashmir a bilateral issue between the two neighbours. Within hours of FATF Plenary, Pakistan tried to export terror into India violating the ceasefire along the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir. In retaliation, the Indian Army destroyed three terror camps in PoK. The country has accused India of pushing Pakistan on the blacklist with the help of some countries. FATF 2020 deadline is critical for Pakistan. Rather than engaging in cross-border terrorism and blaming India for everything, Islamabad should take sustainable actions against terrorist groups within its territory. There are high chances of Pakistan being formally blacklisted by FATF once the February 2020 deadline expires. The need of the hour is to address the issues of terror-funding and money laundering so that it doesn't miss last chance to exit the FATF grey list. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

February 2020 deadline crucial for Pakistan to exit FATF Grey List

Hafiz Saeed is still the power broker in Pakistan despite being in jail. Watch this video to know more.

Salahuddin's father: Hafiz Saeed called me and gave me three options

An annual mutual evaluation report, October 2019 of the Asia-Pacific group of FATF got released which mentioned that 'Pak not acting against terror outfits & No action against JuD & Hafiz Saeed'. This report may lead to a great role in the blacklisting of Pak in FATF.

FATF's Mutual Evaluation Report: 'Pak not acting against terror outfits'

The Lahore High Court on Monday accepted an application of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-anti-terror-court-grants-interim-pre-arrest-bail-to-hafiz-saeed-in-seminary-land-case-236176">Jamaat-ud-Dawah (JuD) chief Hafiz Saeed</a>, challenging his arrest in the terror-financing case. 
 
The two-member bench of the Lahore HC, after hearing the arguments, has sought a detailed report from the Punjab government and counter-terrorism department in this regard on October 28. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistan-must-account-for-basic-expenses-being-given-to-hafiz-saeed-us-252624">The UN-designated global terrorist</a> was arrested on July 17 in connection with the terror-financing case while on his way from Lahore to Gujranwala. The terrorist was charged with gathering funds for banned outfits. 
 
On July 3, the top 13 leaders of the banned JuD, including Saeed and Naib Emir Abdul Rehman Makki, were booked in nearly two dozen cases of terror financing and money laundering under the Anti-Terrorism Act, 1997.

The Lahore High Court on Monday accepted an application of Jamaat-ud-Dawah (JuD) chief Hafiz Saeed, challenging his arrest in the terror-financing case. The two-member bench of the Lahore HC, after hearing the arguments, has sought a detailed report from the Punjab government and counter-terrorism department in this regard on October 28.

The Lahore High Court on Monday accepted an application of Jamaat-ud-Dawah (JuD) chief Hafiz Saeed, challenging his arrest in the terror-financing case. The two-member bench of the Lahore HC, after hearing the arguments, has sought a detailed report from the Punjab government and counter-terrorism department in this regard on October 28. The UN-designated global terrorist was arrested on July 17 in connection with the terror-financing case while on his way from Lahore to Gujranwala. The terrorist was charged with gathering funds for banned outfits. On July 3, the top 13 leaders of the banned JuD, including Saeed and Naib Emir Abdul Rehman Makki, were booked in nearly two dozen cases of terror financing and money laundering under the Anti-Terrorism Act, 1997.

Lahore High Court accepts Hafiz Saaed's application challenging his arrest in terror financing case

There have been recent rumours about an impending military coup in Pakistan. That is not something new or surprising in that country, since civilian rule is a nominal mask for military dictatorship. 
 
Pakistan is not a normal country with political leaders, a Parliament, a constitution, the army and other branches of the state. It is one of the few places in the world where the army owns a country and runs it. The army is also in charge of a substantial portion of its economy.&nbsp;

After Indian action on Article 370, Pakistan appears to be very concerned about our 'secular’ fabric. They are trying to raise the issue in every way possible, without success.

In their ignorance or over enthusiasm, they claim that Kashmir is the jugular 'vain’ of Pakistan, as a recent press release by their official spokesperson, Director General ISPR revealed: “Pak Army is fully configured, prepared &amp; determined to defend honour, dignity &amp; territorial integrity of motherland at all cost. Kashmir is jugular vain (sic) of Pakistan &amp; no compromise shall be made which denies right of self-determination to our brave Kashmiri brethren” - COAS. Such is their level of vain about the jugular!&nbsp;

Their Constitution – the 1973 version visualises– to quote from its preamble, “Whereas sovereignty over the entire Universe belongs to Almighty Allah alone, and the authority to be exercised by the people of Pakistan within the limits prescribed by Him is a sacred trust; wherein the principles of democracy, freedom, equality, tolerance and social justice, as enunciated by Islam, shall be fully observed”&nbsp;

It is the Pakistani Army which is the chosen instrument to implement the will of God. This was clearly enunciated by its former Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Ashfaq Parvez Kayani; protecting Islam and protecting Pakistan are the sovereign duties of the armed forces. Actually, Kayani suggested that the role of army is more than protecting the country – it is to protect the idea and religion.&nbsp;

An UN investigating team appointed by former Pakistan President Asif Zardari probing the death of slain Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto could interview all civil leaders, including the PM and the President, but not the military brass. When the army objected to the Kerry–Lugar bill, the President had to bring in Kerry himself to convince the army chief.&nbsp;

It does not stop there. The army does not recognise some sects of Islam as Muslims. Ahmadis are an example. Abdus Salam, a Pak-origin scientist got the Nobel Prize in Physics, along with Steven Wienberg in 1979. His home town municipality erected an arch in memory of him, which said: ‘First Muslim Nobel Laureate in Physics’. There was a big hue and cry since he was an Ahmadi. So the word Muslim was erased. The revised plaque read: “First Nobel Laureate in Physics”!

Very recently, an MP brought a bill in the Pakistan senate to allow non-Muslims to occupy positions like Prime Minister, President etc. That was out rightly rejected by the parliamentarians. Forget about other ethnic groups like Hindus and Christians, minorities even within Islamic sects like Ahmadis and Bahais cannot occupy high constitutional positions.

In India, the defence minister can ask the army chief to court martial a General, but in Pakistan, any such attempt will result in a coup. That is why Pakistan always negotiates with a gun to its own head. It wants to assert its suicidal tendencies.&nbsp;

Many studies have found that a large number of companies in Pakistan are ultimately owned by Fauji Foundation (FF), Army Welfare Trust (AWT), Bahria Foundation (BF) and Shaheen Foundation (SF), all different wings of its armed forces.

Also, a significant portion of its GDP is attributed to army-controlled entities. (See Military Inc. inside Pakistan’s Military Economy Ayesha Siddiqa—OUP—2007). &nbsp;One can easily conclude that the Pakistan economy and its army and spy agency, ISI, are synonymous.

At least 70% of the market capitalisation of the Karachi stock exchange is owned by the army and other related groups. Hence, never think of Pakistan without its army, whoever may be temporarily and nominally ruling that country.&nbsp;

At the moment, Pakistan is facing acute economic crisis. Its inflation rate is around 13% and the rupee has declined by more than 25% this year. Its GDP growth rate has fallen to sub-3% and there is a move to put it on black list by FATF because of its role in terror financing. A group of industrialists and businessmen recently met the powerful Pakistan army chief, Gen Qamar Javed Bajwa, without Prime Minister Imran Khan being present at the meeting. It is to be noted that the army chief is a member of the Prime Minister’s Development Council.&nbsp;

If the economy is in crisis, the main loser will be the defence forces since they control a significant portion of it. They are certainly not going to allow the benefits to go away from them.

There will be attempts to side line Imran Khan, who is considered as a 'selected’ PM rather than an elected one. Hence there is every possibility that he may be thrown out and once again, the actual rulers, namely the Army and ISI will assume power. As we have explained, Pakistan is the only place in the world in which the army has a country. 
 
There have been recent rumours about an impending military coup in Pakistan. That is not something new or surprising in that country, since civilian rule is a nominal mask for military dictatorship.

Also, a significant portion of its GDP is attributed to army-controlled entities. (See Military Inc. inside Pakistan’s Military Economy Ayesha Siddiqa—OUP—2007). &nbsp;One can easily conclude that the Pakistan economy and its army and spy agency, ISI, are synonymous.

At least 70% of the market capitalisation of the Karachi stock exchange is owned by the army and other related groups. Hence, never think of Pakistan without its army, whoever may be temporarily and nominally ruling that country.&nbsp;

At the moment, Pakistan is facing acute economic crisis. Its inflation rate is around 13% and the rupee has declined by more than 25% this year. Its GDP growth rate has fallen to sub-3% and there is a move to put it on black list by FATF because of its role in terror financing. A group of industrialists and businessmen recently met the powerful Pakistan army chief, Gen Qamar Javed Bajwa, without Prime Minister Imran Khan being present at the meeting. It is to be noted that the army chief is a member of the Prime Minister’s Development Council.&nbsp;

If the economy is in crisis, the main loser will be the defence forces since they control a significant portion of it. They are certainly not going to allow the benefits to go away from them.

There will be attempts to side line Imran Khan, who is considered as a 'selected’ PM rather than an elected one. Hence there is every possibility that he may be thrown out and once again, the actual rulers, namely the Army and ISI will assume power. As we have explained, Pakistan is the only place in the world in which the army has a country.

(This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-pak-an-army-with-a-country-2795225">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL) &nbsp;

There have been recent rumours about an impending military coup in Pakistan. That is not something new or surprising in that country, since civilian rule is a nominal mask for military dictatorship.

There have been recent rumours about an impending military coup in Pakistan. That is not something new or surprising in that country, since civilian rule is a nominal mask for military dictatorship. Pakistan is not a normal country with political leaders, a Parliament, a constitution, the army and other branches of the state. It is one of the few places in the world where the army owns a country and runs it. The army is also in charge of a substantial portion of its economy. After Indian action on Article 370, Pakistan appears to be very concerned about our 'secular’ fabric. They are trying to raise the issue in every way possible, without success. In their ignorance or over enthusiasm, they claim that Kashmir is the jugular 'vain’ of Pakistan, as a recent press release by their official spokesperson, Director General ISPR revealed: “Pak Army is fully configured, prepared & determined to defend honour, dignity & territorial integrity of motherland at all cost. Kashmir is jugular vain (sic) of Pakistan & no compromise shall be made which denies right of self-determination to our brave Kashmiri brethren” - COAS. Such is their level of vain about the jugular! Their Constitution – the 1973 version visualises– to quote from its preamble, “Whereas sovereignty over the entire Universe belongs to Almighty Allah alone, and the authority to be exercised by the people of Pakistan within the limits prescribed by Him is a sacred trust; wherein the principles of democracy, freedom, equality, tolerance and social justice, as enunciated by Islam, shall be fully observed” It is the Pakistani Army which is the chosen instrument to implement the will of God. This was clearly enunciated by its former Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Ashfaq Parvez Kayani; protecting Islam and protecting Pakistan are the sovereign duties of the armed forces. Actually, Kayani suggested that the role of army is more than protecting the country – it is to protect the idea and religion. An UN investigating team appointed by former Pakistan President Asif Zardari probing the death of slain Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto could interview all civil leaders, including the PM and the President, but not the military brass. When the army objected to the Kerry–Lugar bill, the President had to bring in Kerry himself to convince the army chief. It does not stop there. The army does not recognise some sects of Islam as Muslims. Ahmadis are an example. Abdus Salam, a Pak-origin scientist got the Nobel Prize in Physics, along with Steven Wienberg in 1979. His home town municipality erected an arch in memory of him, which said: ‘First Muslim Nobel Laureate in Physics’. There was a big hue and cry since he was an Ahmadi. So the word Muslim was erased. The revised plaque read: “First Nobel Laureate in Physics”! Very recently, an MP brought a bill in the Pakistan senate to allow non-Muslims to occupy positions like Prime Minister, President etc. That was out rightly rejected by the parliamentarians. Forget about other ethnic groups like Hindus and Christians, minorities even within Islamic sects like Ahmadis and Bahais cannot occupy high constitutional positions. In India, the defence minister can ask the army chief to court martial a General, but in Pakistan, any such attempt will result in a coup. That is why Pakistan always negotiates with a gun to its own head. It wants to assert its suicidal tendencies. Many studies have found that a large number of companies in Pakistan are ultimately owned by Fauji Foundation (FF), Army Welfare Trust (AWT), Bahria Foundation (BF) and Shaheen Foundation (SF), all different wings of its armed forces. Also, a significant portion of its GDP is attributed to army-controlled entities. (See Military Inc. inside Pakistan’s Military Economy Ayesha Siddiqa—OUP—2007). One can easily conclude that the Pakistan economy and its army and spy agency, ISI, are synonymous. At least 70% of the market capitalisation of the Karachi stock exchange is owned by the army and other related groups. Hence, never think of Pakistan without its army, whoever may be temporarily and nominally ruling that country. At the moment, Pakistan is facing acute economic crisis. Its inflation rate is around 13% and the rupee has declined by more than 25% this year. Its GDP growth rate has fallen to sub-3% and there is a move to put it on black list by FATF because of its role in terror financing. A group of industrialists and businessmen recently met the powerful Pakistan army chief, Gen Qamar Javed Bajwa, without Prime Minister Imran Khan being present at the meeting. It is to be noted that the army chief is a member of the Prime Minister’s Development Council. If the economy is in crisis, the main loser will be the defence forces since they control a significant portion of it. They are certainly not going to allow the benefits to go away from them. There will be attempts to side line Imran Khan, who is considered as a 'selected’ PM rather than an elected one. Hence there is every possibility that he may be thrown out and once again, the actual rulers, namely the Army and ISI will assume power. As we have explained, Pakistan is the only place in the world in which the army has a country. There have been recent rumours about an impending military coup in Pakistan. That is not something new or surprising in that country, since civilian rule is a nominal mask for military dictatorship. Also, a significant portion of its GDP is attributed to army-controlled entities. (See Military Inc. inside Pakistan’s Military Economy Ayesha Siddiqa—OUP—2007). One can easily conclude that the Pakistan economy and its army and spy agency, ISI, are synonymous. At least 70% of the market capitalisation of the Karachi stock exchange is owned by the army and other related groups. Hence, never think of Pakistan without its army, whoever may be temporarily and nominally ruling that country. At the moment, Pakistan is facing acute economic crisis. Its inflation rate is around 13% and the rupee has declined by more than 25% this year. Its GDP growth rate has fallen to sub-3% and there is a move to put it on black list by FATF because of its role in terror financing. A group of industrialists and businessmen recently met the powerful Pakistan army chief, Gen Qamar Javed Bajwa, without Prime Minister Imran Khan being present at the meeting. It is to be noted that the army chief is a member of the Prime Minister’s Development Council. If the economy is in crisis, the main loser will be the defence forces since they control a significant portion of it. They are certainly not going to allow the benefits to go away from them. There will be attempts to side line Imran Khan, who is considered as a 'selected’ PM rather than an elected one. Hence there is every possibility that he may be thrown out and once again, the actual rulers, namely the Army and ISI will assume power. As we have explained, Pakistan is the only place in the world in which the army has a country. (This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Pakistan: An army with a country

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