In a gun battle with security forces, Indonesia’s most wanted militant with ties to the Islamic State (IS) group has been killed, said the military. It is being seen as a victory for the counter-terrorism campaign against extremists in the jungles of Sulawesi island. &nbsp;

According to Central Sulawesi province’s military chief Brig Gen Farid Makruf, Ali Kalora was one of two militants killed in the shootout. The chief identified the other suspected extremist as Jaka Ramadan. &nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;

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During a raid on Saturday, the two men were shot by a joint team of military and police officers in Central Sulawesi’s mountainous Parigi Moutong district, said Makruf. It borders Poso district, which is considered an extremist hotbed in the province. &nbsp;

“Ali Kalora was the most wanted terrorist and leader of MIT,” Makruf said, while referring to the East Indonesia Mujahideen militant group, which claims allegiance to IS.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/suicide-bomber-who-carried-out-kabul-airport-attack-was-arrested-in-delhi-earlier-claims-isis-k-414143" hreflang="en">Suicide bomber who carried out Kabul airport attack was arrested in Delhi earlier, claims ISIS-K</a> &nbsp;

The security forces are searching for the four remaining members of the group. &nbsp;

For several killings of police officers and Christians, the East Indonesia Mujahideen has claimed responsibility. &nbsp;

In Central Sulawesi, security operations have been intensified over recent months to capture members of the network. The group had pledged allegiance to IS in 2014.&nbsp;

In a gun battle with security forces, Indonesia’s most wanted militant with ties to the Islamic State (IS) group has been killed, said the military. It is being seen as a victory for the counter-terrorism campaign against extremists in the jungles of Sulawesi island.

In a gun battle with security forces, Indonesia’s most wanted militant with ties to the Islamic State (IS) group has been killed, said the military. It is being seen as a victory for the counter-terrorism campaign against extremists in the jungles of Sulawesi island. According to Central Sulawesi province’s military chief Brig Gen Farid Makruf, Ali Kalora was one of two militants killed in the shootout. The chief identified the other suspected extremist as Jaka Ramadan. Watch: × During a raid on Saturday, the two men were shot by a joint team of military and police officers in Central Sulawesi’s mountainous Parigi Moutong district, said Makruf. It borders Poso district, which is considered an extremist hotbed in the province. “Ali Kalora was the most wanted terrorist and leader of MIT,” Makruf said, while referring to the East Indonesia Mujahideen militant group, which claims allegiance to IS. Also Read | Suicide bomber who carried out Kabul airport attack was arrested in Delhi earlier, claims ISIS-K The security forces are searching for the four remaining members of the group. For several killings of police officers and Christians, the East Indonesia Mujahideen has claimed responsibility. In Central Sulawesi, security operations have been intensified over recent months to capture members of the network. The group had pledged allegiance to IS in 2014.

Indonesia’s most wanted militant with ties to IS killed in gun battle

In a stern message, President Ebrahim Raisi warned on Saturday that Iran will not allow the Islamic State group to establish a presence on the country's border with Afghanistan. &nbsp;&nbsp;

While winding up a visit to Tajikistan, Raisi said, "We will not allow terrorist organisations and IS to set up next to our border and strike other countries and the region." &nbsp;

The president told state television, "The presence of IS in Afghanistan is dangerous not only for Afghanistan but also for the region." &nbsp;

Watch | Mckenzie: Strike meant to target suspected Islamic State operation&nbsp;

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Calling for a government with representation for all Afghans, Raisi said on Saturday, "A government belonging to only one ethnic or political group cannot solve Afghanistan's problems."&nbsp;&nbsp;

Belonging almost entirely to the Pashtun ethnic group, Afghanistan's new rulers have formed a government composed entirely of Taliban. &nbsp;

After the withdrawal of Western troops and the Taliban seizing control, Iran's President Ebrahim Raisi had earlier called for elections in Afghanistan to determine the future of the country. He hoped it can help the return of peace to the region.

Also Read:&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-replace-womens-affairs-ministry-with-virtue-and-vice-in-afghanistan-413998" hreflang="en">Taliban replace women's affairs ministry with virtue and vice in Afghanistan &nbsp;</a>

Raisi had said the Afghan people should vote to determine their own government 'as soon as possible', while speaking on state TV on Saturday. &nbsp;&nbsp;

"A government should be established there, which is elected by the votes and the will of the people," Raisi said. &nbsp;

"The Islamic Republic has always sought peace and calm in Afghanistan, and an end to bloodshed and fratricide, and the sovereignty of the people's will. We support a government elected by the Afghan people," he added. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

In a stern message, President Ebrahim Raisi warned on Saturday that Iran will not allow the Islamic State group to establish a presence on the country's border with Afghanistan.

In a stern message, President Ebrahim Raisi warned on Saturday that Iran will not allow the Islamic State group to establish a presence on the country's border with Afghanistan. While winding up a visit to Tajikistan, Raisi said, "We will not allow terrorist organisations and IS to set up next to our border and strike other countries and the region." The president told state television, "The presence of IS in Afghanistan is dangerous not only for Afghanistan but also for the region." Watch | Mckenzie: Strike meant to target suspected Islamic State operation × Calling for a government with representation for all Afghans, Raisi said on Saturday, "A government belonging to only one ethnic or political group cannot solve Afghanistan's problems." Belonging almost entirely to the Pashtun ethnic group, Afghanistan's new rulers have formed a government composed entirely of Taliban. After the withdrawal of Western troops and the Taliban seizing control, Iran's President Ebrahim Raisi had earlier called for elections in Afghanistan to determine the future of the country. He hoped it can help the return of peace to the region. Also Read: Taliban replace women's affairs ministry with virtue and vice in Afghanistan Raisi had said the Afghan people should vote to determine their own government 'as soon as possible', while speaking on state TV on Saturday. "A government should be established there, which is elected by the votes and the will of the people," Raisi said. "The Islamic Republic has always sought peace and calm in Afghanistan, and an end to bloodshed and fratricide, and the sovereignty of the people's will. We support a government elected by the Afghan people," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Iran won't allow IS presence on Afghan border, says President Ebrahim Raisi  

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

Thirteen&nbsp;Iraqi&nbsp;policemen were killed in an Islamic State group&nbsp;attack&nbsp;against a checkpoint in the country's north early Sunday,&nbsp;security&nbsp;and medical sources said.

The&nbsp;attack, in the region of Al-Rashad around 65 kilometres (40 miles) south of Kirkuk city, took place just after midnight, a senior&nbsp;Iraqi&nbsp;police&nbsp;officer told AFP.

"Members of the Islamic State organisation targeted a federal&nbsp;police&nbsp;checkpoint," said the officer, who did not want to be named.&nbsp;

"Thirteen were killed and three wounded" among the&nbsp;security&nbsp;forces, the officer added.&nbsp;

A medical source based in Kirkuk confirmed the toll.

There was no immediate claim of responsibility.&nbsp;

IS seized swathes of Iraq in a lightning offensive in 2014, before being beaten back by a counter-insurgency campaign supported by a US-led military coalition.

The&nbsp;Iraqi&nbsp;government declared the Sunni extremists defeated in late 2017, but they retain sleeper cells which continue to hit&nbsp;security&nbsp;forces with asymmetric attacks.

Jihadist&nbsp;cells regularly target the&nbsp;Iraqi&nbsp;army and&nbsp;police&nbsp;in northern Iraq, but this&nbsp;attack&nbsp;was one of the most deadly this year.

<a href="Auckland knife attacker was on deportation notice, reveals New Zealand PM Jacinda Ardern">Also read |&nbsp;Auckland knife attacker was on deportation notice, reveals New Zealand PM Jacinda Ardern</a>

A July 19 bombing claimed by IS officially killed 30 people in the Al-Woheilat market in Sadr City, a Shiite suburb of Baghdad.

International coalition troops in Iraq currently number around 3,500, of which 2,500 are US troops.

But Washington has been drawing down its military presence amid attacks on facilities it uses by Iran-aligned armed groups and has said that from next year the role of US troops will be limited to training and advising their&nbsp;Iraqi&nbsp;counterparts.&nbsp;

Last Sunday, French President Emmanuel Macron visited&nbsp;Iraqi&nbsp;Kurdistan and expressed concern about an IS "resurgence" in both Iraq and Syria.

He also said that French soldiers deployed in Iraq as part of the international coalition will remain in the country "no matter what choices the Americans make".&nbsp;

Thirteen Iraqi policemen were killed in an Islamic State group attack against a checkpoint in the country's north early Sunday, security and medical sources said.

Thirteen Iraqi policemen were killed in an Islamic State group attack against a checkpoint in the country's north early Sunday, security and medical sources said. The attack, in the region of Al-Rashad around 65 kilometres (40 miles) south of Kirkuk city, took place just after midnight, a senior Iraqi police officer told AFP. "Members of the Islamic State organisation targeted a federal police checkpoint," said the officer, who did not want to be named. "Thirteen were killed and three wounded" among the security forces, the officer added. A medical source based in Kirkuk confirmed the toll. There was no immediate claim of responsibility. IS seized swathes of Iraq in a lightning offensive in 2014, before being beaten back by a counter-insurgency campaign supported by a US-led military coalition. The Iraqi government declared the Sunni extremists defeated in late 2017, but they retain sleeper cells which continue to hit security forces with asymmetric attacks. Jihadist cells regularly target the Iraqi army and police in northern Iraq, but this attack was one of the most deadly this year. Also read | Auckland knife attacker was on deportation notice, reveals New Zealand PM Jacinda Ardern A July 19 bombing claimed by IS officially killed 30 people in the Al-Woheilat market in Sadr City, a Shiite suburb of Baghdad. International coalition troops in Iraq currently number around 3,500, of which 2,500 are US troops. But Washington has been drawing down its military presence amid attacks on facilities it uses by Iran-aligned armed groups and has said that from next year the role of US troops will be limited to training and advising their Iraqi counterparts. Last Sunday, French President Emmanuel Macron visited Iraqi Kurdistan and expressed concern about an IS "resurgence" in both Iraq and Syria. He also said that French soldiers deployed in Iraq as part of the international coalition will remain in the country "no matter what choices the Americans make".

IS jihadist attack kills 13 Iraqi police: Security, medics

French President Emmanuel&nbsp;Macron&nbsp;was to pay a visit Sunday to the Islamic State group's&nbsp;former&nbsp;Iraqi&nbsp;stronghold&nbsp;Mosul, a day after vowing to keep troops in the country.

Macron&nbsp;made the commitment during a regional summit in Baghdad largely devoted to the fight against terrorism and the impact of the Taliban's takeover of Afghanistan as the US withdraws.

"No matter what choices the Americans make, we will maintain our presence in&nbsp;Iraq&nbsp;to fight against terrorism," he told a news conference on Saturday.

On Sunday, the French leader will set foot in&nbsp;Mosul, a Sunni Muslim city recaptured from the Islamic State group (IS) in 2017 after three years.

His visit to&nbsp;Mosul, a melting pot of&nbsp;Iraq's diverse ethnic and religious communities, is seen as an opportunity to renew his support for Christians in the Middle East.

Macron&nbsp;was to visit the Church of Our Lady of the Hour, a church that the UN's cultural agency UNESCO is working to restore.

France, which finances French-speaking Christian schools in the region, aims to boost the plight of Christians in the Middle East, as well as other minorities.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/unsc-does-not-refer-to-taliban-in-kabul-airport-attack-statement-409146">Also read |&nbsp;UNSC does not refer to Taliban in Kabul airport attack statement</a>

"This message is civilisational but also geopolitical. There will be no balance in&nbsp;Iraq&nbsp;if there is no respect for these communities," said the French president.

Macron&nbsp;was also due to make a stop at the site of&nbsp;Mosul's Al-Nuri mosque, where IS leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi had declared the establishment of a "caliphate" in 2014.

IS blew up the famed 12th century mosque in June 2017 as Iraqi forces closed in on the jihadists in&nbsp;Mosul's Old City.

UNESCO is now organising a vast project to rebuild it almost identically, with its famed leaning minaret.

The mosque and church are part of three reconstruction projects led by UNESCO and funded by the United Arab Emirates to the tune of $50 million.

The initiative, called "Reviving the Spirit of&nbsp;Mosul", the largest in the organisation's history, includes plans to rebuild Ottoman-style heritage houses as part of a European-funded project.

The French president on Friday visited the Shiite Muslim shrine of Imam Musa Al-Kadhim in northern Baghdad district of Kadhimiya, accompanied by Iraqi Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhemi.

It was the first such visit for a French president, he said.

Macron&nbsp;will also meet with young Iraqis, including entrepreneurs and students, at the University of&nbsp;Mosul.

He will later Sunday visit Arbil, capital of the autonomous region of Iraqi Kurdistan.

After a visit to French special forces at Camp Grenier, he will hold talks with Kurdish President Netchirvan Barzani, as well as his predecessor, Massud Barzani.

"I look forward to discuss bilateral ties, Iraqi elections and other pressing issues with President&nbsp;Macron. I remain grateful for France’s continued support to the Kurdistan Region and&nbsp;Iraq," the Iraqi Kurdish president tweeted.

Macron&nbsp;will also meet the family of a Peshmerga fighter killed by IS, to pay tribute to the Kurdish contribution to the fight against the jihadists.

French President Emmanuel Macron was to pay a visit Sunday to the Islamic State group's former Iraqi stronghold Mosul, a day after vowing to keep troops in the country.

French President Emmanuel Macron was to pay a visit Sunday to the Islamic State group's former Iraqi stronghold Mosul, a day after vowing to keep troops in the country. Macron made the commitment during a regional summit in Baghdad largely devoted to the fight against terrorism and the impact of the Taliban's takeover of Afghanistan as the US withdraws. "No matter what choices the Americans make, we will maintain our presence in Iraq to fight against terrorism," he told a news conference on Saturday. On Sunday, the French leader will set foot in Mosul, a Sunni Muslim city recaptured from the Islamic State group (IS) in 2017 after three years. His visit to Mosul, a melting pot of Iraq's diverse ethnic and religious communities, is seen as an opportunity to renew his support for Christians in the Middle East. Macron was to visit the Church of Our Lady of the Hour, a church that the UN's cultural agency UNESCO is working to restore. France, which finances French-speaking Christian schools in the region, aims to boost the plight of Christians in the Middle East, as well as other minorities. Also read | UNSC does not refer to Taliban in Kabul airport attack statement "This message is civilisational but also geopolitical. There will be no balance in Iraq if there is no respect for these communities," said the French president. Macron was also due to make a stop at the site of Mosul's Al-Nuri mosque, where IS leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi had declared the establishment of a "caliphate" in 2014. IS blew up the famed 12th century mosque in June 2017 as Iraqi forces closed in on the jihadists in Mosul's Old City. UNESCO is now organising a vast project to rebuild it almost identically, with its famed leaning minaret. The mosque and church are part of three reconstruction projects led by UNESCO and funded by the United Arab Emirates to the tune of $50 million. The initiative, called "Reviving the Spirit of Mosul", the largest in the organisation's history, includes plans to rebuild Ottoman-style heritage houses as part of a European-funded project. The French president on Friday visited the Shiite Muslim shrine of Imam Musa Al-Kadhim in northern Baghdad district of Kadhimiya, accompanied by Iraqi Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhemi. It was the first such visit for a French president, he said. Macron will also meet with young Iraqis, including entrepreneurs and students, at the University of Mosul. He will later Sunday visit Arbil, capital of the autonomous region of Iraqi Kurdistan. After a visit to French special forces at Camp Grenier, he will hold talks with Kurdish President Netchirvan Barzani, as well as his predecessor, Massud Barzani. "I look forward to discuss bilateral ties, Iraqi elections and other pressing issues with President Macron. I remain grateful for France’s continued support to the Kurdistan Region and Iraq," the Iraqi Kurdish president tweeted. Macron will also meet the family of a Peshmerga fighter killed by IS, to pay tribute to the Kurdish contribution to the fight against the jihadists.

Macron visits IS former stronghold in Iraq's Mosul

As the Afghan crisis worsens and US troops move towards the August 31 deadline, the French President Emmanuel Macron has declared that France will stay back in Iraq even if the US troops withdraw.

His announcement came at a regional summit on Saturday in Iraq, that he attended as the threat of Taliban is spreading in the nearby areas of Afghanistan.

"No matter what choices the Americans make, we will maintain our presence in Iraq to fight against terrorism," Macron told a news conference in Baghdad.&nbsp;"We have the operational capacity to ensure this presence."

"We all know that we must not lower our guard, because Daesh (the Islamic State group) remains a threat, and I know that the fight against these terrorist groups is a priority of your government," Macron said.

He also added that&nbsp;France is in talks with the Taliban on humanitarian operations.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/united-states-announces-that-it-carried-out-a-drone-strike-in-eastern-afghanistan-408941">WATCH |</a>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/united-states-announces-that-it-carried-out-a-drone-strike-in-eastern-afghanistan-408941/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">&nbsp;</div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">Along with Macron,&nbsp;Qatar's Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, Dubai's ruler, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al-Maktoum, Kuwait's Prime Minister Sheikh Sabah Al-Khalid Al-Sabah and Turkey's foreign minister Mevlut Cavusoglu also attended the Baghdad summit.</div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">&nbsp;</div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">This summit comes at an important time when the Taliban has started its regime in Afghanistan, as the US withdraws its troops from the country. Meanwhile, ISIS-K has expressed its displeasure of Taliban's takeover of Afghanistan by launching deadly attacks that have taken more than 160 lives of locals in Kabul.</div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">&nbsp;</div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">However, the summit got overshadowed by the happenings in Afghanistan. However, Macron said that "given the geopolitical events, this conference has taken a special turn".</div>

As the Afghan crisis worsens and US troops move towards the August 31 deadline, the French President Emmanuel Macron has declared that France will stay back in Iraq even if the US troops withdraw.

As the Afghan crisis worsens and US troops move towards the August 31 deadline, the French President Emmanuel Macron has declared that France will stay back in Iraq even if the US troops withdraw. His announcement came at a regional summit on Saturday in Iraq, that he attended as the threat of Taliban is spreading in the nearby areas of Afghanistan. "No matter what choices the Americans make, we will maintain our presence in Iraq to fight against terrorism," Macron told a news conference in Baghdad. "We have the operational capacity to ensure this presence." "We all know that we must not lower our guard, because Daesh (the Islamic State group) remains a threat, and I know that the fight against these terrorist groups is a priority of your government," Macron said. He also added that France is in talks with the Taliban on humanitarian operations. WATCH | Along with Macron, Qatar's Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, Dubai's ruler, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al-Maktoum, Kuwait's Prime Minister Sheikh Sabah Al-Khalid Al-Sabah and Turkey's foreign minister Mevlut Cavusoglu also attended the Baghdad summit. This summit comes at an important time when the Taliban has started its regime in Afghanistan, as the US withdraws its troops from the country. Meanwhile, ISIS-K has expressed its displeasure of Taliban's takeover of Afghanistan by launching deadly attacks that have taken more than 160 lives of locals in Kabul. However, the summit got overshadowed by the happenings in Afghanistan. However, Macron said that "given the geopolitical events, this conference has taken a special turn".

France to stay in Iraq even if US troops withdraw: Emmanuel Macron

French President Emmanuel&nbsp;Macron&nbsp;is among leaders set to&nbsp;attend&nbsp;a regional&nbsp;summit&nbsp;Saturday in Iraq, with the Taliban's takeover of Afghanistan and a deadly jihadist attack in Kabul overshadowing the meeting.

Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi and Jordan's King Abdullah II are due at the&nbsp;Baghdad&nbsp;summit, while the foreign ministers of arch-foes Iran and Saudi Arabia will also be present.

Organisers have been tight-lipped on the agenda, but the meeting comes as Iraq, long a casualty of jihadist militancy, tries to establish itself as a mediator between Arab countries and Iran.

Iraq seeks to play a "unifying role" to tackle crises shaking the region, sources close to Iraqi Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhemi have said.

Oil-rich Iraq has been caught for years in a delicate balancing act between its two main allies, Iran and the United States.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kill-list-biden-says-us-troops-may-have-handed-a-list-of-american-citizens-to-taliban-408871">Also read |&nbsp;Kill list? Biden says US troops 'may' have handed a list of American citizens to Taliban</a>

Iran exerts major clout in Iraq through allied armed groups within the Hashed al-Shaabi, a powerful state-sponsored paramilitary network.

Baghdad&nbsp;has been brokering talks since April between US ally Riyadh and Tehran on mending ties severed in 2016.

Macron&nbsp;aims to highlight France's role in the region and its determination to press the fight against terrorism, his office said.

The French president considers Iraq "essential" to stability in the troubled Middle East, it added.

'More urgent than ever'

An Islamic State (IS) group affiliate claimed Thursday's suicide bombing in Kabul that killed scores of people, including 13 US service members.

The attack has revived global concerns that the extremist organisation, which seized swathes of Syria and Iraq before being routed from both countries, is emerging anew, analysts said.

The blast came during the final days of US-led evacuations from Afghanistan after the Taliban's lightning takeover.

"These events show that it has become more urgent than ever to back the political process in Iraq and involve its neighbours," a source close to&nbsp;Macron&nbsp;said.

"A solution to security threats in the region, including Daesh (IS), depends on a stable, sovereign and prosperous Iraq," the source added.

A decade after the 2003 US-led invasion that ousted dictator Saddam Hussein, IS in June 2014 announced a "caliphate" in territory seized in Syria and Iraq, routing the badly prepared Iraqi army without a fight and seizing almost a third of the country.

France was part of a US-led coalition established to battle the extremists.

Iraq declared IS territorially defeated in December 2017, but the group still retains sleeper cells and continues to claim bloody attacks.

New IS 'strides'

One of the deadliest was a July bombing that ripped through a crowded&nbsp;Baghdad&nbsp;market, killing&nbsp;over&nbsp;30 people on the eve of a key Muslim holiday.

According to Colin Clarke, senior research fellow at the Soufan Center, IS "still has access to tens of millions of dollars and will likely continue to rebuild its network throughout Iraq and Syria".&nbsp;

Its "primary goal at the moment is to have its affiliates maintain momentum until it can sufficiently rebuild its core in the Levant," he said.

"(IS) affiliates in sub-Saharan Africa and now Afghanistan will have the opportunity to make strides in the coming year."

In July, President Joe Biden said US combat operations in Iraq would end this year, but that US soldiers would continue to train, advise and support the country's military in the fight against IS.

Washington currently has 2,500 troops deployed to Iraq.&nbsp;

Rasha Al Aqeedi, senior analyst at Newlines Institute for Strategy and Policy, said coalition forces believed Iraq's security personnel could prevent another IS advance.

"Maybe they're not ideal, but they're good enough for America to leave the country believing that Iraq is not going to live through another 2014," she said.

French President Emmanuel Macron is among leaders set to attend a regional summit Saturday in Iraq, with the Taliban's takeover of Afghanistan and a deadly jihadist attack in Kabul overshadowing the meeting.

French President Emmanuel Macron is among leaders set to attend a regional summit Saturday in Iraq, with the Taliban's takeover of Afghanistan and a deadly jihadist attack in Kabul overshadowing the meeting. Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi and Jordan's King Abdullah II are due at the Baghdad summit, while the foreign ministers of arch-foes Iran and Saudi Arabia will also be present. Organisers have been tight-lipped on the agenda, but the meeting comes as Iraq, long a casualty of jihadist militancy, tries to establish itself as a mediator between Arab countries and Iran. Iraq seeks to play a "unifying role" to tackle crises shaking the region, sources close to Iraqi Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhemi have said. Oil-rich Iraq has been caught for years in a delicate balancing act between its two main allies, Iran and the United States. Also read | Kill list? Biden says US troops 'may' have handed a list of American citizens to Taliban Iran exerts major clout in Iraq through allied armed groups within the Hashed al-Shaabi, a powerful state-sponsored paramilitary network. Baghdad has been brokering talks since April between US ally Riyadh and Tehran on mending ties severed in 2016. Macron aims to highlight France's role in the region and its determination to press the fight against terrorism, his office said. The French president considers Iraq "essential" to stability in the troubled Middle East, it added. 'More urgent than ever' An Islamic State (IS) group affiliate claimed Thursday's suicide bombing in Kabul that killed scores of people, including 13 US service members. The attack has revived global concerns that the extremist organisation, which seized swathes of Syria and Iraq before being routed from both countries, is emerging anew, analysts said. The blast came during the final days of US-led evacuations from Afghanistan after the Taliban's lightning takeover. "These events show that it has become more urgent than ever to back the political process in Iraq and involve its neighbours," a source close to Macron said. "A solution to security threats in the region, including Daesh (IS), depends on a stable, sovereign and prosperous Iraq," the source added. A decade after the 2003 US-led invasion that ousted dictator Saddam Hussein, IS in June 2014 announced a "caliphate" in territory seized in Syria and Iraq, routing the badly prepared Iraqi army without a fight and seizing almost a third of the country. France was part of a US-led coalition established to battle the extremists. Iraq declared IS territorially defeated in December 2017, but the group still retains sleeper cells and continues to claim bloody attacks. New IS 'strides' One of the deadliest was a July bombing that ripped through a crowded Baghdad market, killing over 30 people on the eve of a key Muslim holiday. According to Colin Clarke, senior research fellow at the Soufan Center, IS "still has access to tens of millions of dollars and will likely continue to rebuild its network throughout Iraq and Syria". Its "primary goal at the moment is to have its affiliates maintain momentum until it can sufficiently rebuild its core in the Levant," he said. "(IS) affiliates in sub-Saharan Africa and now Afghanistan will have the opportunity to make strides in the coming year." In July, President Joe Biden said US combat operations in Iraq would end this year, but that US soldiers would continue to train, advise and support the country's military in the fight against IS. Washington currently has 2,500 troops deployed to Iraq. Rasha Al Aqeedi, senior analyst at Newlines Institute for Strategy and Policy, said coalition forces believed Iraq's security personnel could prevent another IS advance. "Maybe they're not ideal, but they're good enough for America to leave the country believing that Iraq is not going to live through another 2014," she said.

Macron to attend Baghdad summit amid fears over IS

French President Emmanuel&nbsp;Macron&nbsp;warned of the threat the Islamic State group poses ahead of an Iraqi&nbsp;summit&nbsp;Saturday overshadowed by the Taliban's takeover of&nbsp;Afghanistan&nbsp;and a deadly bombing in Kabul.

Organisers have been tight-lipped on the agenda of the&nbsp;summit&nbsp;in Baghdad, but the meeting also comes as&nbsp;Iraq, long a casualty of jihadist militancy, tries to establish itself as a mediator between Arab countries and Iran.

"We all know that we must not lower our guard, because Daesh (IS) remains a threat, and I know that the fight&nbsp;against&nbsp;these terrorist groups is a priority of your government,"&nbsp;Macron&nbsp;said, after a meeting with Iraqi Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhemi in Baghdad.

Iraq&nbsp;and France "are key partners in the war&nbsp;against&nbsp;terrorism," Kadhemi replied.

Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi and Jordan's King Abdullah II are due at the&nbsp;summit, while the foreign ministers of regional foes Iran and Saudi Arabia will also be present.

The prime minster of the United Arab Emirates, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al-Maktoum, as well as Kuwait's Prime Minister Sheikh Sabah Al-Khalid Al-Sabah are also expected to attend.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-airstrike-targets-is-in-afghanistan-in-response-to-deadly-suicide-attack-408905">Also read |&nbsp;US airstrike targets IS in Afghanistan in response to deadly suicide attack</a>

Iraq&nbsp;is seeking to play a "unifying role" to tackle crises shaking the region, sources close to&nbsp;Iraq's Kadhemi have said.

Oil-rich&nbsp;Iraq&nbsp;has been caught for years in a delicate balancing act between its two main allies, Iran and the United States.

Iran exerts major clout in&nbsp;Iraq&nbsp;through allied armed groups within the Hashed al-Shaabi, a powerful state-sponsored paramilitary network.

Baghdad has been brokering talks since April between US ally Riyadh and Tehran on mending ties severed in 2016.

Macron&nbsp;aims to highlight France's role in the region and its determination to press the fight&nbsp;against&nbsp;terrorism, his office said.

The French president considers&nbsp;Iraq&nbsp;"essential" to stability in the troubled Middle East, it added.

'More urgent than ever'

An IS affiliate claimed Thursday's suicide bombing in Kabul that killed scores of people, including 13 US service members.

The attack has revived global concerns that the extremist organisation, which seized swathes of Syria and&nbsp;Iraq&nbsp;before being routed from both countries, is emerging anew, analysts said.

The blast came during the final days of US-led evacuations from&nbsp;Afghanistan&nbsp;after the Taliban's lightning takeover.

"These events show that it has become more urgent than ever to back the political process in&nbsp;Iraq&nbsp;and involve its neighbours," a source close to&nbsp;Macron&nbsp;said.

"A solution to security threats in the region, including Daesh, depends on a stable, sovereign and prosperous&nbsp;Iraq," the source added.

A decade after the 2003 US-led invasion that ousted dictator Saddam Hussein, IS in June 2014 announced a "caliphate" in territory seized in Syria and&nbsp;Iraq, routing the badly prepared Iraqi army without a fight and seizing almost a third of the country.

France was part of a US-led coalition established to battle the extremists.

Iraq&nbsp;declared IS territorially defeated in December 2017, but the group still retains sleeper cells and continues to claim bloody attacks.

New IS 'strides'

One of the deadliest was a July bombing that ripped through a crowded Baghdad market, killing over 30 people on the eve of a key Muslim holiday.

According to Colin Clarke, senior research fellow at the Soufan Center, IS "still has access to tens of millions of dollars and will likely continue to rebuild its network throughout&nbsp;Iraq&nbsp;and Syria".

Its "primary goal at the moment is to have its affiliates maintain momentum until it can sufficiently rebuild its core in the Levant," he said.

"(IS) affiliates in sub-Saharan Africa and now&nbsp;Afghanistan&nbsp;will have the opportunity to make strides in the coming year."

In July, President Joe Biden said US combat operations in&nbsp;Iraq&nbsp;would end this year, but that US soldiers would continue to train, advise and support the country's military in the fight&nbsp;against&nbsp;IS.

Washington currently has 2,500 troops deployed to&nbsp;Iraq.

Rasha Al Aqeedi, senior analyst at Newlines Institute for Strategy and Policy, said coalition forces believed&nbsp;Iraq's security personnel could prevent another IS advance.

"Maybe they're not ideal, but they're good enough for America to leave the country believing that&nbsp;Iraq&nbsp;is not going to live through another 2014," she said.

French President Emmanuel Macron warned of the threat the Islamic State group poses ahead of an Iraqi summit Saturday overshadowed by the Taliban's takeover of Afghanistan and a deadly bombing in Kabul.

French President Emmanuel Macron warned of the threat the Islamic State group poses ahead of an Iraqi summit Saturday overshadowed by the Taliban's takeover of Afghanistan and a deadly bombing in Kabul. Organisers have been tight-lipped on the agenda of the summit in Baghdad, but the meeting also comes as Iraq, long a casualty of jihadist militancy, tries to establish itself as a mediator between Arab countries and Iran. "We all know that we must not lower our guard, because Daesh (IS) remains a threat, and I know that the fight against these terrorist groups is a priority of your government," Macron said, after a meeting with Iraqi Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhemi in Baghdad. Iraq and France "are key partners in the war against terrorism," Kadhemi replied. Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi and Jordan's King Abdullah II are due at the summit, while the foreign ministers of regional foes Iran and Saudi Arabia will also be present. The prime minster of the United Arab Emirates, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al-Maktoum, as well as Kuwait's Prime Minister Sheikh Sabah Al-Khalid Al-Sabah are also expected to attend. Also read | US airstrike targets IS in Afghanistan in response to deadly suicide attack Iraq is seeking to play a "unifying role" to tackle crises shaking the region, sources close to Iraq's Kadhemi have said. Oil-rich Iraq has been caught for years in a delicate balancing act between its two main allies, Iran and the United States. Iran exerts major clout in Iraq through allied armed groups within the Hashed al-Shaabi, a powerful state-sponsored paramilitary network. Baghdad has been brokering talks since April between US ally Riyadh and Tehran on mending ties severed in 2016. Macron aims to highlight France's role in the region and its determination to press the fight against terrorism, his office said. The French president considers Iraq "essential" to stability in the troubled Middle East, it added. 'More urgent than ever' An IS affiliate claimed Thursday's suicide bombing in Kabul that killed scores of people, including 13 US service members. The attack has revived global concerns that the extremist organisation, which seized swathes of Syria and Iraq before being routed from both countries, is emerging anew, analysts said. The blast came during the final days of US-led evacuations from Afghanistan after the Taliban's lightning takeover. "These events show that it has become more urgent than ever to back the political process in Iraq and involve its neighbours," a source close to Macron said. "A solution to security threats in the region, including Daesh, depends on a stable, sovereign and prosperous Iraq," the source added. A decade after the 2003 US-led invasion that ousted dictator Saddam Hussein, IS in June 2014 announced a "caliphate" in territory seized in Syria and Iraq, routing the badly prepared Iraqi army without a fight and seizing almost a third of the country. France was part of a US-led coalition established to battle the extremists. Iraq declared IS territorially defeated in December 2017, but the group still retains sleeper cells and continues to claim bloody attacks. New IS 'strides' One of the deadliest was a July bombing that ripped through a crowded Baghdad market, killing over 30 people on the eve of a key Muslim holiday. According to Colin Clarke, senior research fellow at the Soufan Center, IS "still has access to tens of millions of dollars and will likely continue to rebuild its network throughout Iraq and Syria". Its "primary goal at the moment is to have its affiliates maintain momentum until it can sufficiently rebuild its core in the Levant," he said. "(IS) affiliates in sub-Saharan Africa and now Afghanistan will have the opportunity to make strides in the coming year." In July, President Joe Biden said US combat operations in Iraq would end this year, but that US soldiers would continue to train, advise and support the country's military in the fight against IS. Washington currently has 2,500 troops deployed to Iraq. Rasha Al Aqeedi, senior analyst at Newlines Institute for Strategy and Policy, said coalition forces believed Iraq's security personnel could prevent another IS advance. "Maybe they're not ideal, but they're good enough for America to leave the country believing that Iraq is not going to live through another 2014," she said.

Macron warns against IS as Afghanistan overshadows Iraq summit

In response to the deadly&nbsp;suicide attack on&nbsp;Thursday,&nbsp;the United States military struck back at the Islamic State by bombing an IS member in Afghanistan on Saturday.&nbsp;The strike seems to have killed an Islamic State "planner".

The US Central Command said the strike took place in Nangarhar province, which borders Pakistan.&nbsp;"Initial indications are that we killed the target. We know of no civilian casualties," the US military said in a statement, referring to the strike.

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The devastating suicide bombing, which was claimed by the group, killed as many as 169 Afghans and 13 American service members at the Kabul airport.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: ISIS-K: Group behind the Kabul blasts

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On Thursday, US President Joe Biden said the perpetrators cannot hide, and he vowed to strike back at the Islamic State group's Afghanistan affiliate. "We will hunt you down and make you pay," Biden said.&nbsp;

A US official said on Friday, the suicide bomber seems to have carried around 25 pounds of explosives, loaded with shrapnel.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/south-asia/afghanistan-staff-details-left-behind-at-uk-kabul-embassy-report-408865" hreflang="en">Afghanistan staff details left behind at UK Kabul embassy: Report</a>

The&nbsp;blast created by the&nbsp;massive amount of explosives and spray of shrapnel was such huge that it killed US troops, who were inside the airport gate as well as troops and Afghans outside, said the official on condition of anonymity.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-tells-citizens-to-leave-kabul-airport-gates-immediately-408913" hreflang="en">US tells citizens to leave Kabul airport gates 'immediately'</a>

Generally, a suicide bomber carries from five to 10 pounds of explosives.&nbsp;According to the US officials, the IS bomber got to within several yards of the gate at Kabul airport, where Afghans were crowded in as part of the ongoing evacuation from Afghanistan.

Meanwhile, Western forces are also running the Afghan airlift while bracing for more attacks.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

In response to the deadly suicide attack on Thursday, the United States military struck back at the Islamic State by bombing an IS member in Afghanistan on Saturday.

In response to the deadly suicide attack on Thursday, the United States military struck back at the Islamic State by bombing an IS member in Afghanistan on Saturday. The strike seems to have killed an Islamic State "planner". The US Central Command said the strike took place in Nangarhar province, which borders Pakistan. "Initial indications are that we killed the target. We know of no civilian casualties," the US military said in a statement, referring to the strike. The devastating suicide bombing, which was claimed by the group, killed as many as 169 Afghans and 13 American service members at the Kabul airport. Watch | Gravitas: ISIS-K: Group behind the Kabul blasts × On Thursday, US President Joe Biden said the perpetrators cannot hide, and he vowed to strike back at the Islamic State group's Afghanistan affiliate. "We will hunt you down and make you pay," Biden said. A US official said on Friday, the suicide bomber seems to have carried around 25 pounds of explosives, loaded with shrapnel. Also Read | Afghanistan staff details left behind at UK Kabul embassy: Report The blast created by the massive amount of explosives and spray of shrapnel was such huge that it killed US troops, who were inside the airport gate as well as troops and Afghans outside, said the official on condition of anonymity. Also Read | US tells citizens to leave Kabul airport gates 'immediately' Generally, a suicide bomber carries from five to 10 pounds of explosives. According to the US officials, the IS bomber got to within several yards of the gate at Kabul airport, where Afghans were crowded in as part of the ongoing evacuation from Afghanistan. Meanwhile, Western forces are also running the Afghan airlift while bracing for more attacks. (With inputs from agencies)

US airstrike targets IS in Afghanistan in response to deadly suicide attack

US&nbsp;Secretary of State Antony Blinken said on Monday that 10,000 Islamic State fighters continue to be held in detention in camps run by the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), and that this situation was 'untenable'. 
 
Speaking at the opening of a meeting in Rome to renew international efforts to combat the Islamist militia, Blinken said Washington continued to urge countries, including the 78 member countries of the coalition against Islamic State, to take back their citizens, who had joined the group. 
 
"This situation is simply untenable. It just can't persist indefinitely. The United States continues to urge countries of origin, including coalition partners, to repatriate, rehabilitate, and where applicable, prosecute their citizens," Blinken said in his opening remarks. 
 
Another key element of defeating Islamic State on a permanent basis required addressing the threats from the group outside Iraq and Syria, and namely in Africa, Blinken said. 
 
Originally an offshoot of al Qaeda, Islamic State seized large swathes of Iraq and Syria from 2014, imposing a reign of terror with public beheadings and attacks by supporters abroad. 
 
Islamic State was declared militarily defeated in 2017 but has since waged a steady insurgency across parts of northern Iraq and a porous border with neighbouring Syria. 
 
Recent months have witnessed more than 25 deadly attacks that Iraqi officials attribute to Islamic State militants. The January bombing of a crowded Baghdad market killed more than 30 people. 
 
Militant groups linked to al Qaeda and Islamic State have also grown stronger in recent years, despite the deployment of thousands of regional, Western and UN&nbsp;troops across West Africa's Sahel region.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said on Monday that 10,000 Islamic State fighters continue to be held in detention in camps run by the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), and that this situation was 'untenable'.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said on Monday that 10,000 Islamic State fighters continue to be held in detention in camps run by the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), and that this situation was 'untenable'. Speaking at the opening of a meeting in Rome to renew international efforts to combat the Islamist militia, Blinken said Washington continued to urge countries, including the 78 member countries of the coalition against Islamic State, to take back their citizens, who had joined the group. "This situation is simply untenable. It just can't persist indefinitely. The United States continues to urge countries of origin, including coalition partners, to repatriate, rehabilitate, and where applicable, prosecute their citizens," Blinken said in his opening remarks. Another key element of defeating Islamic State on a permanent basis required addressing the threats from the group outside Iraq and Syria, and namely in Africa, Blinken said. Originally an offshoot of al Qaeda, Islamic State seized large swathes of Iraq and Syria from 2014, imposing a reign of terror with public beheadings and attacks by supporters abroad. Islamic State was declared militarily defeated in 2017 but has since waged a steady insurgency across parts of northern Iraq and a porous border with neighbouring Syria. Recent months have witnessed more than 25 deadly attacks that Iraqi officials attribute to Islamic State militants. The January bombing of a crowded Baghdad market killed more than 30 people. Militant groups linked to al Qaeda and Islamic State have also grown stronger in recent years, despite the deployment of thousands of regional, Western and UN troops across West Africa's Sahel region.

Blinken: 'Untenable' for 10,000 IS fighters still to be held in Syria

The jihadist&nbsp;Islamic&nbsp;State&nbsp;claimed it carried out this week's attack on a mosque on the outskirts of the Afghan capital that left 12 worshippers dead, SITE Intelligence Group reported.

The explosion happened inside a mosque in Shakar Darah district of Kabul province during Friday prayers and shattered the relative calm of a three-day ceasefire agreed between the Taliban and the Afghan government.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/blast-in-kabul-mosque-kills-12-worshippers-shattering-eid-ceasefire-calm-385004">Blast in Kabul mosque kills 12 worshippers, shattering Eid ceasefire calm</a>

IS said its fighters had placed an explosive device inside the mosque and detonated it after worshippers arrived to offer prayers on the second day of the Eid al-Fitr holidays, the US monitor of jihadist groups said late Saturday.

The bombing killed the imam of the mosque, who was leading the prayers.

Friday was also the second day of a three-day ceasefire agreed by the Taliban and the government to mark Eid al-Fitr.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-celebrates-eid-amid-ceasefire-between-taliban-and-government-384764">Afghanistan celebrates Eid amid ceasefire between Taliban and government</a>

The temporary truce was announced after soaring violence since May 01, when the US military began formally withdrawing its last remaining troops from the country.

A series of blasts outside a girls' school in Kabul last week killed more than 50 people and wounded scores, most of them female students.

No group has so far claimed the attack, one of the deadliest in recent years.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bombings-kill-11-afghans-on-first-day-of-ceasefire-384816">Bombings kill 11 Afghans on first day of ceasefire</a>

In recent weeks, fighting between the Taliban and government forces had surged across several provinces before the ceasefire was agreed, including in the southern provinces of Kandahar and Helmand.

The jihadist Islamic State claimed it carried out this week's attack on a mosque on the outskirts of the Afghan capital that left 12 worshippers dead, SITE Intelligence Group reported.

The jihadist Islamic State claimed it carried out this week's attack on a mosque on the outskirts of the Afghan capital that left 12 worshippers dead, SITE Intelligence Group reported. The explosion happened inside a mosque in Shakar Darah district of Kabul province during Friday prayers and shattered the relative calm of a three-day ceasefire agreed between the Taliban and the Afghan government. Also read | Blast in Kabul mosque kills 12 worshippers, shattering Eid ceasefire calm IS said its fighters had placed an explosive device inside the mosque and detonated it after worshippers arrived to offer prayers on the second day of the Eid al-Fitr holidays, the US monitor of jihadist groups said late Saturday. The bombing killed the imam of the mosque, who was leading the prayers. Friday was also the second day of a three-day ceasefire agreed by the Taliban and the government to mark Eid al-Fitr. Also read | Afghanistan celebrates Eid amid ceasefire between Taliban and government The temporary truce was announced after soaring violence since May 01, when the US military began formally withdrawing its last remaining troops from the country. A series of blasts outside a girls' school in Kabul last week killed more than 50 people and wounded scores, most of them female students. No group has so far claimed the attack, one of the deadliest in recent years. Also Read | Bombings kill 11 Afghans on first day of ceasefire In recent weeks, fighting between the Taliban and government forces had surged across several provinces before the ceasefire was agreed, including in the southern provinces of Kandahar and Helmand.

IS claims Afghan mosque blast that killed 12 worshippers: SITE

Jihadists on Wednesday killed a policeman before blowing up two oil wells in Kirkuk, a northern province claimed by both&nbsp;Iraq's federal government and the Kurds, officials said.&nbsp;

A security official told AFP that "Islamic State group assailants" killed a policeman and "wounded two others".

The attackers then "blew up wells 177 and 183 at the Bay Hassan field," the oil ministry said in a statement.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iraqi-army-fires-rockets-at-base-hosting-americans-amid-delegation-visit-382772">Iraqi army fires rockets at base hosting Americans amid delegation visit</a>

The first fire was "brought under control in record time", but "firemen are still active at the second" well several hours after the attack, the ministry added.

Iraqi Kurdish peshmerga forces took control of Kirkuk, home to key oilfields including Bay Hassan, in June 2014 after federal forces withdrew in the face of an IS offensive.

In late 2017, Baghdad officially claimed victory against IS, after a grinding military campaign supported by a US-led coalition.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iraq-bans-terror-prank-television-shows-382730">Iraq bans terror prank television shows</a>&nbsp;

But the Kurds,&nbsp;who run an autonomous government in Arbil, and the federal government dispute ownership of Kirkuk's lucrative oilfields.&nbsp;

IS maintain an ability to perpetrate hit-and-run attacks, operating mainly at night and often exploiting the discord between Baghdad and Arbil. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Iraq&nbsp;is the second-biggest producer in the OPEC cartel of oil-producing nations.

Last month the oil ministry said it exported 88.4 million barrels for $5.5 billion.

Jihadists on Wednesday killed a policeman before blowing up two oil wells in Kirkuk, a northern province claimed by both Iraq's federal government and the Kurds, officials said.

Jihadists on Wednesday killed a policeman before blowing up two oil wells in Kirkuk, a northern province claimed by both Iraq's federal government and the Kurds, officials said. A security official told AFP that "Islamic State group assailants" killed a policeman and "wounded two others". The attackers then "blew up wells 177 and 183 at the Bay Hassan field," the oil ministry said in a statement. Also read | Iraqi army fires rockets at base hosting Americans amid delegation visit The first fire was "brought under control in record time", but "firemen are still active at the second" well several hours after the attack, the ministry added. Iraqi Kurdish peshmerga forces took control of Kirkuk, home to key oilfields including Bay Hassan, in June 2014 after federal forces withdrew in the face of an IS offensive. In late 2017, Baghdad officially claimed victory against IS, after a grinding military campaign supported by a US-led coalition. Also read | Iraq bans terror prank television shows But the Kurds, who run an autonomous government in Arbil, and the federal government dispute ownership of Kirkuk's lucrative oilfields. IS maintain an ability to perpetrate hit-and-run attacks, operating mainly at night and often exploiting the discord between Baghdad and Arbil. Iraq is the second-biggest producer in the OPEC cartel of oil-producing nations. Last month the oil ministry said it exported 88.4 million barrels for $5.5 billion.

IS 'blows up' Iraq oil wells, kills policeman: Officials

Police in Denmark said they on Tuesday have arrested six men, who are suspected of joining and financing the Islamic State group in Syria.&nbsp;

Two of those arrested, ages 29 and 30, allegedly travelled to Syria in 2014 where they were recruited by IS. They are suspected of violating Danish terror laws and, if found guilty, they face up to six years in jail. The 29-year-old man tried to reenter Syria in 2015, police said in a statement.&nbsp;

Five of them are also suspected of sending money to financially support the group. One of them, the 29-year-old, allegedly transferred funds from 2013 to 2017.&nbsp;

Police said in a statement that they believed that the 29-year-old man used the four others as middlemen for the money transfers. If found guilty of financing a terror group, they face up to 10 years in prison.&nbsp;

None of the men were identified in line with Danish practice. &nbsp;

The arrests of the men, ranging in age from 27 to 35, were made in Copenhagen and Aarhus, Denmark's second-largest city. Police and the Danish Security Intelligence Agency took part in the arrests. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Police in Denmark said they on Tuesday have arrested six men, who are suspected of joining and financing the Islamic State group in Syria. Two of those arrested, ages 29 and 30, allegedly travelled to Syria in 2014 where they were recruited by IS.

Police in Denmark said they on Tuesday have arrested six men, who are suspected of joining and financing the Islamic State group in Syria. Two of those arrested, ages 29 and 30, allegedly travelled to Syria in 2014 where they were recruited by IS. They are suspected of violating Danish terror laws and, if found guilty, they face up to six years in jail. The 29-year-old man tried to reenter Syria in 2015, police said in a statement. Five of them are also suspected of sending money to financially support the group. One of them, the 29-year-old, allegedly transferred funds from 2013 to 2017. Police said in a statement that they believed that the 29-year-old man used the four others as middlemen for the money transfers. If found guilty of financing a terror group, they face up to 10 years in prison. None of the men were identified in line with Danish practice. The arrests of the men, ranging in age from 27 to 35, were made in Copenhagen and Aarhus, Denmark's second-largest city. Police and the Danish Security Intelligence Agency took part in the arrests. (With inputs from agencies)

Denmark arrests 6 men for allegedly joining, financing IS 

Dragging a screaming lraqi actress wrapped in a fake suicide belt, television presenter Reslan Haddad, himself dressed up in a military uniform, pretends to just have rescued the blindfolded Nessma from a staged violent Islamic State attack on the outskirts of Baghdad.

Standing next to the middle-aged woman who meanwhile seemed to have fainted, Haddad casually threw some water over her face, after having removed her blindfold and revealing that the terrifying experience she just went through was only a prank.

Initially, "we called the guest and told her we are going to pay a visit to a displaced family", Haddad said&nbsp;from his living room in a Baghdad suburb, adding that the&nbsp;Iraqi celebrity was told she would deliver aid to an&nbsp;Iraqi family displaced by war and who had just returned home.

But shortly after their arrival at the family's home, the TV crew is attacked by a group of fake jihadists, among them Haddad dressed as an IS militant.

Both Haddad and Nessma have confirmed&nbsp;that the latter had no idea this was a prank.

In the shot following the staged attack, Nessma is seen lying blindfolded on the floor, and shouting out to her deceased brother, whom Haddad said &nbsp;"died as a martyr".

"Our message is to call for the return of the displaced. Secondly, our message is that our security forces shed blood, Islamic State was defeated by our forces", Haddad said, adding that "the message can't come through without sacrifices. Our security forces were sacrificed in order to spread their message. So the artist should endure, it is normal".

Nessma said that she was proud to have been part of the show as it represented what many&nbsp;Iraqis went through, while spreading the message that&nbsp;Iraqis were alive.

Nessma's episode so far got over one million of views on YouTube. But on social media, many&nbsp;Iraqis harshly criticised the show consisting of 25 similar episodes, to be broadcast during the month of Ramzan.

"This reminded me of the days of the Islamic State and what IS did to&nbsp;Iraqis when it was controlling our lands. To be honest, violence in our society is born from such practices. The violent society is made by violent media", writer and civil society activist Resli al-Maliki said while some questioned the health consequences the show might have on its guests.

Using the hashtag "Stop the 'Tannab Reslan' show", Twitter users criticised the series for being offensive to both&nbsp;Iraqis and security forces, while displaced families remained victims.

Thousands of&nbsp;Iraqis still suffer from the aftermath of the war against IS, many unable to return home due to insecurity and a lack of services in their hometowns.

The show received production support from the media department of&nbsp;Iraq's Popular Mobilisation Forces, the state-funded paramilitary goups, Haddad said.

While the jihadists were played by actors, the security forces in the show were real, Haddad said.

"By the way, there were a lot of details, things that I wanted to do to the guests, but I was scared for them. Much more terrifying things" Haddad said, refusing to reveal more details as he might consider using his ideas in future television shows.

(With inputs from agencies)

Dragging a screaming lraqi actress wrapped in a fake suicide belt, television presenter Reslan Haddad, himself dressed up in a military uniform, pretends to just have rescued the blindfolded Nessma from a staged violent Islamic State attack on the outskirts of Baghdad.

Dragging a screaming lraqi actress wrapped in a fake suicide belt, television presenter Reslan Haddad, himself dressed up in a military uniform, pretends to just have rescued the blindfolded Nessma from a staged violent Islamic State attack on the outskirts of Baghdad. Standing next to the middle-aged woman who meanwhile seemed to have fainted, Haddad casually threw some water over her face, after having removed her blindfold and revealing that the terrifying experience she just went through was only a prank. Initially, "we called the guest and told her we are going to pay a visit to a displaced family", Haddad said from his living room in a Baghdad suburb, adding that the Iraqi celebrity was told she would deliver aid to an Iraqi family displaced by war and who had just returned home. But shortly after their arrival at the family's home, the TV crew is attacked by a group of fake jihadists, among them Haddad dressed as an IS militant. Both Haddad and Nessma have confirmed that the latter had no idea this was a prank. In the shot following the staged attack, Nessma is seen lying blindfolded on the floor, and shouting out to her deceased brother, whom Haddad said "died as a martyr". "Our message is to call for the return of the displaced. Secondly, our message is that our security forces shed blood, Islamic State was defeated by our forces", Haddad said, adding that "the message can't come through without sacrifices. Our security forces were sacrificed in order to spread their message. So the artist should endure, it is normal". Nessma said that she was proud to have been part of the show as it represented what many Iraqis went through, while spreading the message that Iraqis were alive. Nessma's episode so far got over one million of views on YouTube. But on social media, many Iraqis harshly criticised the show consisting of 25 similar episodes, to be broadcast during the month of Ramzan. "This reminded me of the days of the Islamic State and what IS did to Iraqis when it was controlling our lands. To be honest, violence in our society is born from such practices. The violent society is made by violent media", writer and civil society activist Resli al-Maliki said while some questioned the health consequences the show might have on its guests. Using the hashtag "Stop the 'Tannab Reslan' show", Twitter users criticised the series for being offensive to both Iraqis and security forces, while displaced families remained victims. Thousands of Iraqis still suffer from the aftermath of the war against IS, many unable to return home due to insecurity and a lack of services in their hometowns. The show received production support from the media department of Iraq's Popular Mobilisation Forces, the state-funded paramilitary goups, Haddad said. While the jihadists were played by actors, the security forces in the show were real, Haddad said. "By the way, there were a lot of details, things that I wanted to do to the guests, but I was scared for them. Much more terrifying things" Haddad said, refusing to reveal more details as he might consider using his ideas in future television shows. (With inputs from agencies)

Islamic State TV prank triggers controversy in Iraq

Kurdish authorities in northeast Syria on Sunday handed over 34 orphaned children, whose parents were suspected of belonging to the Islamic State group, to a Russian delegation to be repatriated.

An AFP correspondent in the city of Qamishli said the children aged between three and 14 were handed over to a delegation headed by the Russian president's envoy for children's rights, Anna Kuznetsova.

Moscow has now repatriated at least 169 such children, Fener al-Kait of the Syrian Kurds' foreign affairs department told AFP on the sidelines of a handover ceremony.

He said other departures to the Russian Federation of orphaned children would follow from northeast Syria.

Moscow has also been repatriating children abandoned in Iraq since the collapse of the jihadists' "caliphate" straddling both Arab states.

Syria's Kurds have repeatedly urged the international community to repatriate foreign nationals held in crowded camps in northeast Syria.

Their calls have largely fallen on deaf ears with only limited numbers, mostly children, allowed to return home so far.

Kurdish authorities in northeast Syria on Sunday handed over 34 orphaned children, whose parents were suspected of belonging to the Islamic State group, to a Russian delegation to be repatriated.

Kurdish authorities in northeast Syria on Sunday handed over 34 orphaned children, whose parents were suspected of belonging to the Islamic State group, to a Russian delegation to be repatriated. An AFP correspondent in the city of Qamishli said the children aged between three and 14 were handed over to a delegation headed by the Russian president's envoy for children's rights, Anna Kuznetsova. Moscow has now repatriated at least 169 such children, Fener al-Kait of the Syrian Kurds' foreign affairs department told AFP on the sidelines of a handover ceremony. He said other departures to the Russian Federation of orphaned children would follow from northeast Syria. Moscow has also been repatriating children abandoned in Iraq since the collapse of the jihadists' "caliphate" straddling both Arab states. Syria's Kurds have repeatedly urged the international community to repatriate foreign nationals held in crowded camps in northeast Syria. Their calls have largely fallen on deaf ears with only limited numbers, mostly children, allowed to return home so far.

Russia repatriates 34 orphans of IS families from Syria

Kurdish forces arrested dozens in an operation launched to apprehend suspected family members of Islamic State militant in a camp in northeast Syria.

Al-Hol is the largest such settlement controlled by Kurdish authorities, who warn it is emerging as an extremist powder keg following dozens of murders in the camp since the start of the year.

The camp has almost 62,000 people, mostly women and children. The residents include Syrians, Iraqi and thousands from Europe and Asia.

"More than thirty women and men have been arrested" in a sweeping anti-IS operation in and around the Al-Hol camp, said Rami Abdul Rahman, head of the Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights.

"The arrests are ongoing" as part of a days-long operation by the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), which is the Kurdish regional administration's main fighting force, the Kurdish YPG militia and a local police force, Abdul Rahman said.

Syrians and foreigners "suspected of supporting IS" have been arrested, he said.

SDF officials confirmed the operation, with one of them saying it would run at least 10 days.

An SDF statement said 5,000 security personnel were deployed in Al-Hol to "protect residents" during the sweep.

It said nine people, including an "ISIS leader" had been detained so far.

A video released by the YPG showed the militia marching off a group of men towards vehicles.

(With AFP inputs)

Kurdish forces arrested dozens in an operation launched to apprehend suspected family members of Islamic State militant in a camp in northeast Syria. Al-Hol is the largest such settlement controlled by Kurdish authorities, who warn it is emerging as an extremist powder keg following dozens of murders in the camp since the start of the year.

Kurdish forces arrested dozens in an operation launched to apprehend suspected family members of Islamic State militant in a camp in northeast Syria. Al-Hol is the largest such settlement controlled by Kurdish authorities, who warn it is emerging as an extremist powder keg following dozens of murders in the camp since the start of the year. The camp has almost 62,000 people, mostly women and children. The residents include Syrians, Iraqi and thousands from Europe and Asia. "More than thirty women and men have been arrested" in a sweeping anti-IS operation in and around the Al-Hol camp, said Rami Abdul Rahman, head of the Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights. "The arrests are ongoing" as part of a days-long operation by the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), which is the Kurdish regional administration's main fighting force, the Kurdish YPG militia and a local police force, Abdul Rahman said. Syrians and foreigners "suspected of supporting IS" have been arrested, he said. SDF officials confirmed the operation, with one of them saying it would run at least 10 days. An SDF statement said 5,000 security personnel were deployed in Al-Hol to "protect residents" during the sweep. It said nine people, including an "ISIS leader" had been detained so far. A video released by the YPG showed the militia marching off a group of men towards vehicles. (With AFP inputs)

Kurdish forces arrest dozens in security sweep against IS families

The two neighbouring countries, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/australia-and-new-zealand">Australia and New Zealand</a> seem to be in a bad position with each other over the nationality of the terrorist arrested in Turkey.

A 26-year-old woman was reportedly arrested this week in Turkey with her two children. The woman was arrested by the Turkish authorities near the Syrian border and is believed to be a member of the Islamic State extremist group.

This woman is believed to hold dual citizenship of Australia and New Zealand. However, Australia seems to be backing away from taking her responsibility.

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New Zealand's Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, this time, has not shied away from telling her Australian counterpart that his country is at "wrong" this time.

"Any fair minded person would consider this person an Australian and that is my view too," Ardern said in a statement. "We believe Australia has abdicated its responsibilities."

It is believed the accused had spent the majority of her childhood and adult life in Australia and also has her family members settled there. However, the Australian government has shrieked from taking her responsibility, which has now angered Ardern.

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"It is wrong that New Zealand should shoulder the responsibility for a situation involving a woman who has not lived in New Zealand since she was six," Ardern said. "(The woman) has resided in Australia since that time, has her family in Australia and left for Syria from Australia on her Australian passport."

Ardern has accused Australia of cancelling her citizenship after her arrest, leaving New Zealand solely responsible for her terrorism-related activities and involvements.

Australia PM Scott Morrison, meanwhile, has defended this action as the best possible way to ensure the nation's security interests.&nbsp;

"We do not want to see terrorists who fought with terrorism organisations enjoying privileges of citizenship, which I think they forfeit the second they engage as an enemy of our country," Morrison said in a press conference.&nbsp;

However, he has also ensured that he will have a dialogue with Ardern. "There is still a lot more unknown about this case and where it sits and where it may go to next," he said.

Ardern has also requested Morrison to consider the future of the two children too, who have been caught in the crossfire through no fault of their own.

"Coming to New Zealand, where they have no immediate family, would not be in their best interests. We know that young children thrive best when surrounded by people who love them," she said.

The two neighbouring countries, Australia and New Zealand seem to be in a bad position with each other over the nationality of the terrorist arrested in Turkey. A 26-year-old woman was reportedly arrested this week in Turkey with her two children.

The two neighbouring countries, Australia and New Zealand seem to be in a bad position with each other over the nationality of the terrorist arrested in Turkey. A 26-year-old woman was reportedly arrested this week in Turkey with her two children. The woman was arrested by the Turkish authorities near the Syrian border and is believed to be a member of the Islamic State extremist group. This woman is believed to hold dual citizenship of Australia and New Zealand. However, Australia seems to be backing away from taking her responsibility. Also read| Google and Facebook 'close' to deals with Australian media New Zealand's Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, this time, has not shied away from telling her Australian counterpart that his country is at "wrong" this time. "Any fair minded person would consider this person an Australian and that is my view too," Ardern said in a statement. "We believe Australia has abdicated its responsibilities." It is believed the accused had spent the majority of her childhood and adult life in Australia and also has her family members settled there. However, the Australian government has shrieked from taking her responsibility, which has now angered Ardern. Also read| New Zealand confirms first case of UK variant amid Auckland lockdown "It is wrong that New Zealand should shoulder the responsibility for a situation involving a woman who has not lived in New Zealand since she was six," Ardern said. "(The woman) has resided in Australia since that time, has her family in Australia and left for Syria from Australia on her Australian passport." Ardern has accused Australia of cancelling her citizenship after her arrest, leaving New Zealand solely responsible for her terrorism-related activities and involvements. Australia PM Scott Morrison, meanwhile, has defended this action as the best possible way to ensure the nation's security interests. "We do not want to see terrorists who fought with terrorism organisations enjoying privileges of citizenship, which I think they forfeit the second they engage as an enemy of our country," Morrison said in a press conference. However, he has also ensured that he will have a dialogue with Ardern. "There is still a lot more unknown about this case and where it sits and where it may go to next," he said. Ardern has also requested Morrison to consider the future of the two children too, who have been caught in the crossfire through no fault of their own. "Coming to New Zealand, where they have no immediate family, would not be in their best interests. We know that young children thrive best when surrounded by people who love them," she said.

'It is wrong': New Zealand-Australia clash over responsibility of terrorist with dual nationality

Islamic State group jihadists killed 19 Syrian regime personnel and allied militia fighters in the central province of Hama on Wednesday, a Britain-based war monitor said.

"Nineteen regime fighters and allied militia forces were killed in an IS attack, including 11 members of the Baqir Brigade," a local Iran-backed militia, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said.

The war monitor said the "surprise attack" on Wednesday morning targeted regime positions in eastern Hama, the site of recent clashes between regime forces and jihadists.

Observatory head Rami Abdul Rahman called it the deadliest IS attack this year.

IS overran large parts of Syria and Iraq and proclaimed a cross-border "caliphate" in 2014, before multiple offensives in the two countries led to its territorial defeat.

The group lost its last scrap of territory in Syria in March 2019, but in recent months it has ramped up attacks against regime forces, especially in the east of the country bordering Iraq.

In December last year, IS killed nearly 40 Syrian troops in an ambush of a bus carrying soldiers travelling home for the holidays.&nbsp;

According to the Observatory, IS attacks have killed more than 1,200 regime fighters and allied militia forces since March 2019.

The war in Syria has killed more than 387,000 people since it started in 2011, the Observatory says.

Islamic State group jihadists killed 19 Syrian regime personnel and allied militia fighters in the central province of Hama on Wednesday, a Britain-based war monitor said.

Islamic State group jihadists killed 19 Syrian regime personnel and allied militia fighters in the central province of Hama on Wednesday, a Britain-based war monitor said. "Nineteen regime fighters and allied militia forces were killed in an IS attack, including 11 members of the Baqir Brigade," a local Iran-backed militia, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said. The war monitor said the "surprise attack" on Wednesday morning targeted regime positions in eastern Hama, the site of recent clashes between regime forces and jihadists. Observatory head Rami Abdul Rahman called it the deadliest IS attack this year. IS overran large parts of Syria and Iraq and proclaimed a cross-border "caliphate" in 2014, before multiple offensives in the two countries led to its territorial defeat. The group lost its last scrap of territory in Syria in March 2019, but in recent months it has ramped up attacks against regime forces, especially in the east of the country bordering Iraq. In December last year, IS killed nearly 40 Syrian troops in an ambush of a bus carrying soldiers travelling home for the holidays. According to the Observatory, IS attacks have killed more than 1,200 regime fighters and allied militia forces since March 2019. The war in Syria has killed more than 387,000 people since it started in 2011, the Observatory says.

IS attack kills 19 in central Syria

Islamic State group fighters killed at least seven regime loyalists in eastern Syria on Saturday.

The attack came as the militia fighters were sweeping the town of Al-Shola for jihadist remnants. This is the latest in a series of deadly jihadist attacks.

"Seven members of the National Defence Forces, a pro-regime militia, were killed in clashes with an IS sleeper cell in the eastern province of Deir Ezzor," the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said.

The death toll is expected to climb, as IS gunmen wounded several other militia fighters.

The region, near the border with Iraq, was formerly a stronghold of the jihadist group.&nbsp;

Last week, the Observatory said IS gunmen in central Syria had ambushed a bus carrying government soldiers in the Wadi al-Azib area of Hama province. The ambush late Sunday resulted in the deaths of eight soldiers, four allied fighters and three civilians, the Observatory said.&nbsp;

The IS was behind a December 30 bus ambush in Deir Ezzor province, which killed at least 37 Syrian soldiers.

IS in 2014 overran large parts of Syria and Iraq and proclaimed a cross-border "caliphate" before multiple offensives in the two countries led to its territorial defeat.

The group was overcome in Syria in March 2019, but sleeper cells continue to launch attacks in the vast Badia desert running from central Syria eastwards to the border with Iraq.

The Observatory says IS attacks have since March 2019 killed more than 1,100 pro-regime fighters, including Syrian troops and foreign paramilitaries.&nbsp;

More than 387,000 people have been killed and millions forced from their homes since Syria's civil war broke out in 2011.

Islamic State group fighters killed at least seven regime loyalists in eastern Syria on Saturday. The attack came as the militia fighters were sweeping the town of Al-Shola for jihadist remnants.

Islamic State group fighters killed at least seven regime loyalists in eastern Syria on Saturday. The attack came as the militia fighters were sweeping the town of Al-Shola for jihadist remnants. This is the latest in a series of deadly jihadist attacks. "Seven members of the National Defence Forces, a pro-regime militia, were killed in clashes with an IS sleeper cell in the eastern province of Deir Ezzor," the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said. The death toll is expected to climb, as IS gunmen wounded several other militia fighters. The region, near the border with Iraq, was formerly a stronghold of the jihadist group. Last week, the Observatory said IS gunmen in central Syria had ambushed a bus carrying government soldiers in the Wadi al-Azib area of Hama province. The ambush late Sunday resulted in the deaths of eight soldiers, four allied fighters and three civilians, the Observatory said. The IS was behind a December 30 bus ambush in Deir Ezzor province, which killed at least 37 Syrian soldiers. IS in 2014 overran large parts of Syria and Iraq and proclaimed a cross-border "caliphate" before multiple offensives in the two countries led to its territorial defeat. The group was overcome in Syria in March 2019, but sleeper cells continue to launch attacks in the vast Badia desert running from central Syria eastwards to the border with Iraq. The Observatory says IS attacks have since March 2019 killed more than 1,100 pro-regime fighters, including Syrian troops and foreign paramilitaries. More than 387,000 people have been killed and millions forced from their homes since Syria's civil war broke out in 2011.

IS attack kills seven regime loyalists in eastern Syria

The four men accused of being accomplices&nbsp;in the killing of an 85-year-old&nbsp;French priest&nbsp;will face a trial by a special jury, which in France is reserved for the most serious crimes.

Jacques Hamel was killed in cold blood in July 2016 as a group of men from the Islamic State (IS) group slit his throat&nbsp;at the foot of the altar. The two murderers were killed by the police, and four others were arrested on the suspicion of being accomplices of the murderers.

The news agency AFP has released exclusive information that the&nbsp;investigating magistrates said the four would face a special jury court, meeting a demand by prosecutors last month.

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One of the main accused is&nbsp;Rachid Kassim, who is being believed to be an IS recruiter and has also been accused of instigating the incident. Although he was assumed dead in Iraq in 2017, he&nbsp;will be tried in absentia as his death has never been confirmed.

The other three face less serious charges of having involvement with a terrorist organisation. One of these three has been identified as&nbsp;Yassine S. who has admitted to travelling with the murderers to apparently "to learn about religion" but has also claimed to have left their company a day before the attack. The other two, identified as&nbsp;Jean-Philippe Steven Jean-Louis and Farid K., are also being charged with being a part of the terrorist group, despite being aware of the intent of the murderers.

The four will be put on trial soon, now, years after the French priest was murdered in cold blood. His death was followed by a series of attack in the capital city of France.

The four men accused of being accomplices in the killing of an 85-year-old French priest will face a trial by a special jury, which in France is reserved for the most serious crimes.

The four men accused of being accomplices in the killing of an 85-year-old French priest will face a trial by a special jury, which in France is reserved for the most serious crimes. Jacques Hamel was killed in cold blood in July 2016 as a group of men from the Islamic State (IS) group slit his throat at the foot of the altar. The two murderers were killed by the police, and four others were arrested on the suspicion of being accomplices of the murderers. The news agency AFP has released exclusive information that the investigating magistrates said the four would face a special jury court, meeting a demand by prosecutors last month. Also read| Macron 'shocked' to hear Black music producer being beaten by French police; officers detained One of the main accused is Rachid Kassim, who is being believed to be an IS recruiter and has also been accused of instigating the incident. Although he was assumed dead in Iraq in 2017, he will be tried in absentia as his death has never been confirmed. The other three face less serious charges of having involvement with a terrorist organisation. One of these three has been identified as Yassine S. who has admitted to travelling with the murderers to apparently "to learn about religion" but has also claimed to have left their company a day before the attack. The other two, identified as Jean-Philippe Steven Jean-Louis and Farid K., are also being charged with being a part of the terrorist group, despite being aware of the intent of the murderers. The four will be put on trial soon, now, years after the French priest was murdered in cold blood. His death was followed by a series of attack in the capital city of France.

Four accused of killing French priest in 2016 to face special jury trial

The Islamic State group claimed responsibility Tuesday for a deadly shooting rampage in Vienna the day before, the group said in a statement on its Telegram channels.

The statement identified "a soldier of the caliphate" as being responsible for the assault on Monday night in the Austrian capital that left four people dead.

In a separate statement, accompanied by a photograph of the armed assailant, IS propaganda arm Amaq cited "a gun attack yesterday (Monday) by an Islamic State fighter in the city of Vienna".

(More details awaited)

The Islamic State group claimed responsibility Tuesday for a deadly shooting rampage in Vienna the day before, the group said in a statement on its Telegram channels.

The Islamic State group claimed responsibility Tuesday for a deadly shooting rampage in Vienna the day before, the group said in a statement on its Telegram channels. The statement identified "a soldier of the caliphate" as being responsible for the assault on Monday night in the Austrian capital that left four people dead. In a separate statement, accompanied by a photograph of the armed assailant, IS propaganda arm Amaq cited "a gun attack yesterday (Monday) by an Islamic State fighter in the city of Vienna". (More details awaited)

Islamic State group claims responsibility for Vienna attack

In a big revelation, Austria's interior minister said on Wednesday that Austria's domestic intelligence service had received warning that the Islamic State sympathiser wanted to procure ammunition. The man later went on to carry out a deadly shooting in Vienna. Austria's interior minister said that the Austrian domestic intelligence had received the warning from neighbouring Slovakia.

"In the last few hours information has come to light that some time prior to the terror attack, Slovakian intelligence informed (Austria's domestic intelligence service) the BVT about the attacker. The information was that he wanted to get ammunition," Karl Nehammer told a press conference.

Four people were killed when Kujtim Fejzulai, described as a 20-year-old IS sympathiser who had spent time in prison, opened fire with a Kalashnikov in a busy area of the Austrian capital the day before the country went into a new coronavirus lockdown.

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Police shot the gunman dead on Monday and later swooped on 18 different addresses and made 14 arrests as they looked for possible accomplices and sought to determine if he had acted alone.&nbsp;

The Vienna terror attack has been claimed by Islamic State (IS). It said on Tuesday that "soldier of the caliphate" was responsible for the carnage, according to its propaganda agency. Austrian Chancellor Sebastian Kurz called for a European response to "political Islam".

(With AFP inputs)

In a big revelation, Austria's interior minister said on Wednesday that Austria's domestic intelligence service had received warning that the Islamic State sympathiser wanted to procure ammunition.

In a big revelation, Austria's interior minister said on Wednesday that Austria's domestic intelligence service had received warning that the Islamic State sympathiser wanted to procure ammunition. The man later went on to carry out a deadly shooting in Vienna. Austria's interior minister said that the Austrian domestic intelligence had received the warning from neighbouring Slovakia. "In the last few hours information has come to light that some time prior to the terror attack, Slovakian intelligence informed (Austria's domestic intelligence service) the BVT about the attacker. The information was that he wanted to get ammunition," Karl Nehammer told a press conference. Four people were killed when Kujtim Fejzulai, described as a 20-year-old IS sympathiser who had spent time in prison, opened fire with a Kalashnikov in a busy area of the Austrian capital the day before the country went into a new coronavirus lockdown. Also Read | Austria thanks India for standing in difficult times; says will defend our open societies Police shot the gunman dead on Monday and later swooped on 18 different addresses and made 14 arrests as they looked for possible accomplices and sought to determine if he had acted alone. The Vienna terror attack has been claimed by Islamic State (IS). It said on Tuesday that "soldier of the caliphate" was responsible for the carnage, according to its propaganda agency. Austrian Chancellor Sebastian Kurz called for a European response to "political Islam". (With AFP inputs)

Vienna terror attack: Austria was warned about the attacker, says minister

Tanzanian police have said that about 300 jihadists launched a cross-border attack from Mozambique last week, confirming an earlier claim by the Islamic State group.&nbsp;

"It's true that about 300 terrorists from Mozambique attacked our station at Kitaya in (southern) Mtwara last week and killed some people," said police chief Simon Sirro in a videotaped press conference viewed by AFP Thursday.

Islamic State Central Africa Province (ISCAP), affiliated with the Islamic State group, last week claimed it had mounted an attack in Mtwara, near the Mozambican border, on October 14.

The group has carried out a wave of attacks in Mozambique since 2017, killing more than 1,500 people and displacing 250,000, according to conflict data provider ACLED.&nbsp;

Tanzania is set to hold a presidential election on October 28.

Tanzanian police have said that about 300 jihadists launched a cross-border attack from Mozambique last week, confirming an earlier claim by the Islamic State group.

Tanzanian police have said that about 300 jihadists launched a cross-border attack from Mozambique last week, confirming an earlier claim by the Islamic State group. "It's true that about 300 terrorists from Mozambique attacked our station at Kitaya in (southern) Mtwara last week and killed some people," said police chief Simon Sirro in a videotaped press conference viewed by AFP Thursday. Islamic State Central Africa Province (ISCAP), affiliated with the Islamic State group, last week claimed it had mounted an attack in Mtwara, near the Mozambican border, on October 14. The group has carried out a wave of attacks in Mozambique since 2017, killing more than 1,500 people and displacing 250,000, according to conflict data provider ACLED. Tanzania is set to hold a presidential election on October 28.

Tanzania hit by recent IS attack near Mozambique border: police

Switzerland has arrested four people on suspicions of links with the Jihadist organisations&nbsp;Al-Qaeda and the Islamic State (IS) group.

The four suspects, three men and one woman, were arrested while the authorities were conducting sear operations in the&nbsp;canton of Fribourg in western Switzerland.

Out of the four, three are from Kosovo and one is from&nbsp;Macedonia. None of them have been identified in the public by the authorities yet.

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The attorney general's office, or MPC, said that due to the high risk of collusion, "the house searches and arrests were all carried out simultaneously."

The four suspects were arrested on the charges of defying the law which prohibits locals from establishing any ties with&nbsp;both Al-Qaeda and IS and related organisations, as well as supporting or being members of a criminal organisation.

The news broke out after the four suspects had already been questions, and two of them — the 28-year-old Kosovar woman and the 29-year-old Macedonian man — had been released. However,&nbsp;a 26-year-old Kosovar man and a 29-year old Swiss-Kosovar dual national are still in custody of the authorities.

Switzerland has arrested four people on suspicions of links with the Jihadist organisations Al-Qaeda and the Islamic State (IS) group. The four suspects, three men and one woman, were arrested while the authorities were conducting sear operations in the canton of Fribourg in western Switzerland.

Switzerland has arrested four people on suspicions of links with the Jihadist organisations Al-Qaeda and the Islamic State (IS) group. The four suspects, three men and one woman, were arrested while the authorities were conducting sear operations in the canton of Fribourg in western Switzerland. Out of the four, three are from Kosovo and one is from Macedonia. None of them have been identified in the public by the authorities yet. Also read: NIA arrests 10th suspected Al-Qaeda terrorist from Bengal’s Murshidabad The attorney general's office, or MPC, said that due to the high risk of collusion, "the house searches and arrests were all carried out simultaneously." The four suspects were arrested on the charges of defying the law which prohibits locals from establishing any ties with both Al-Qaeda and IS and related organisations, as well as supporting or being members of a criminal organisation. The news broke out after the four suspects had already been questions, and two of them — the 28-year-old Kosovar woman and the 29-year-old Macedonian man — had been released. However, a 26-year-old Kosovar man and a 29-year old Swiss-Kosovar dual national are still in custody of the authorities.

Switzerland questions four with suspected links to Al-Qaeda, IS; two released

Prosecutors in Washington have charged a US citizen for joining the so-called Islamic State group in Syria, according to a statement from the Justice Department Wednesday.&nbsp;

The charges allege that Lirim Sylejmani conspired to provide and provided material support to IS, which the United States has classified as a terrorist organization, between 2015 and 2019.&nbsp;

The department also claimed he received military training from the self-styled caliphate.&nbsp;

"The defendant is a US citizen who abandoned the country that welcomed him to join ISIS in Syria," acting US Attorney Sherwin said in the statement of Sylejmani, who was born in Kosovo. "He will now be held accountable for his actions in an American courtroom."

Sylejmani was captured by the US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) last year, according to the statement, before facing investigation by the FBI's Washington Field Office Joint Terrorism Task Force.

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The question of how to handle captured foreign IS fighters has vexed Western governments, with the US vying for European countries to repatriate and try their own citizens.&nbsp;

Nations such as France and Britain reject the return of battle-hardened supporters of the ultra-violent IS group, which has claimed responsibility for a slew of grisly attacks against civilians.

Some European governments, including Britain, have revoked the citizenship of a number of citizens over alleged IS links.&nbsp;

But the US has pushed back against these approaches.&nbsp;

"Leaving them in the desert is not an effective solution. It makes it more likely they're going to find their way back to the battlefield, and accepting that risk is not being tough on terrorism," the US State Department's counterterrorism coordinator Nathan Sales told a meeting in Brussels last year.&nbsp;

Plus, it could put an undue burden on Middle Eastern countries already dealing with their own former IS-fighter citizens, according to the US.&nbsp;

The EU-backed Genocide Network this spring advocated that returning IS foreign fighters should be charged with war crimes under international law — such as genocide or crimes against humanity — in addition to whatever terrorism charges they may face at home.&nbsp;

As of May, some 2,000 fighters were still detained by Syrian forces and another 1,000 were in detention in Iraq, many of them European citizens mainly from France, Britain and Germany.

Prosecutors in Washington have charged a US citizen for joining the so-called Islamic State group in Syria, according to a statement from the Justice Department Wednesday.

Prosecutors in Washington have charged a US citizen for joining the so-called Islamic State group in Syria, according to a statement from the Justice Department Wednesday. The charges allege that Lirim Sylejmani conspired to provide and provided material support to IS, which the United States has classified as a terrorist organization, between 2015 and 2019. The department also claimed he received military training from the self-styled caliphate. "The defendant is a US citizen who abandoned the country that welcomed him to join ISIS in Syria," acting US Attorney Sherwin said in the statement of Sylejmani, who was born in Kosovo. "He will now be held accountable for his actions in an American courtroom." Sylejmani was captured by the US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) last year, according to the statement, before facing investigation by the FBI's Washington Field Office Joint Terrorism Task Force. Also read| UK brings back child trapped in Syria: Dominic Raab The question of how to handle captured foreign IS fighters has vexed Western governments, with the US vying for European countries to repatriate and try their own citizens. Nations such as France and Britain reject the return of battle-hardened supporters of the ultra-violent IS group, which has claimed responsibility for a slew of grisly attacks against civilians. Some European governments, including Britain, have revoked the citizenship of a number of citizens over alleged IS links. But the US has pushed back against these approaches. "Leaving them in the desert is not an effective solution. It makes it more likely they're going to find their way back to the battlefield, and accepting that risk is not being tough on terrorism," the US State Department's counterterrorism coordinator Nathan Sales told a meeting in Brussels last year. Plus, it could put an undue burden on Middle Eastern countries already dealing with their own former IS-fighter citizens, according to the US. The EU-backed Genocide Network this spring advocated that returning IS foreign fighters should be charged with war crimes under international law — such as genocide or crimes against humanity — in addition to whatever terrorism charges they may face at home. As of May, some 2,000 fighters were still detained by Syrian forces and another 1,000 were in detention in Iraq, many of them European citizens mainly from France, Britain and Germany.

US charges citizen with providing support to IS

Britain has successfully brought back a child who was trapped in Syria, out of dozens of such children who are trapped in the&nbsp;war-torn country.

The news was announced by&nbsp;British Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab on twitter, who wrote, "Pleased we have been able to bring home a British child from Syria. As I have said previously, we assess each case carefully. Safely facilitating the return of orphans or unaccompanied British children, where possible, is the right thing to do."

However, no further details are expected to be revealed as the issue invoces a minor.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-starts-investigating-9-pakistani-terrorists-held-in-syria-323251">Also read:&nbsp;US starts investigating 9 Pakistani terrorists held in Syria</a>

As per reports by various charities and government groups, close to 60 British children are trapped in Syria. The UK has been actively trying to get these children, many of whom are orphans, back to their home country.

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Pleased we have been able to bring home a British child from Syria. As I have said previously, we assess each case carefully. Safely facilitating the return of orphans or unaccompanied British children, where possible, is the right thing to do.
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The news was hugely welcomed in the country, especially after the recent criticism faced by the government for apparently&nbsp;efusing to help nationals including children to return home after they or their parents were accused of joining the Islamic State militant group.

&nbsp;Meanwhle, there has been no change in the existing policy of stripping off the citizenship of the locals who travel to Syria to support terrorist groups such as the IS.

Britain has successfully brought back a child who was trapped in Syria, out of dozens of such children who are trapped in the war-torn country. The news was announced by British Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab on twitter, who wrote, "Pleased we have been able to bring home a British child from Syria.

Britain has successfully brought back a child who was trapped in Syria, out of dozens of such children who are trapped in the war-torn country. The news was announced by British Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab on twitter, who wrote, "Pleased we have been able to bring home a British child from Syria. As I have said previously, we assess each case carefully. Safely facilitating the return of orphans or unaccompanied British children, where possible, is the right thing to do." However, no further details are expected to be revealed as the issue invoces a minor. Also read: US starts investigating 9 Pakistani terrorists held in Syria As per reports by various charities and government groups, close to 60 British children are trapped in Syria. The UK has been actively trying to get these children, many of whom are orphans, back to their home country. Pleased we have been able to bring home a British child from Syria. As I have said previously, we assess each case carefully. Safely facilitating the return of orphans or unaccompanied British children, where possible, is the right thing to do. — Dominic Raab (@DominicRaab) September 16, 2020 × The news was hugely welcomed in the country, especially after the recent criticism faced by the government for apparently efusing to help nationals including children to return home after they or their parents were accused of joining the Islamic State militant group. Meanwhle, there has been no change in the existing policy of stripping off the citizenship of the locals who travel to Syria to support terrorist groups such as the IS.

UK brings back child trapped in Syria: Dominic Raab

In a major setback to Prime Minister Imran Khan, the US&nbsp;is probing Pakistanis who were fighting for the Islamic State in Syria.

At least 29 Pakistanis have been caught by the US-backed Kurdish-Syrian democratic forces, and nine of them are women. They are all being interrogated by the US.

The interrogations will focus on&nbsp;who sent them to fight for the Islamic State, their previous affiliations&nbsp;with terror groups in Pakistan and if they have links with Pakistan's secret agency Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI).

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/flash-floods-ravage-region-around-kabul-at-least-46-dead-in-afghanistan-323178">Also read:&nbsp;Flash floods ravage region around Kabul, at least 46 dead in Afghanistan</a>

For Prime Minister Imran Khan, this is another embarrassment and&nbsp;it has come at the worst possible time. In October, the FATF (Financial Action Task Force) is set to review Pakistan's record.

The FATF is a terror financing watchdog, and Pakistan has been on its grey list. It should be in the black list, but countries such as China, Turkey and Malaysia save Pakistan from that, so it remains in the grey list.

Pakistan wants to step out of this grey list but&nbsp;revelations like these&nbsp;will make sure it stays where it is.

Meanwhile, the people of Pakistan are worried as the floods are destroying their houses and resources. Heavy rains have killed at least 90 people and damaged 1,000 homes across the country. The city of Karachi is living under water. The locals are frustratedwith the government as this happens&nbsp;every monsoon season.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/heavy-monsoon-rains-trigger-flash-floods-in-afghanistan-and-pakistan-323241">Have a look:&nbsp;Heavy monsoon rains trigger flash floods in Afghanistan and Pakistan</a>

Three days of monsoon rains have left Pakistan flooded with more than 90 fatalities, and thousands of homes destroyed.

Nearly 23 people have been declared dead in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa,&nbsp;15 are dead in Baluchistan, eight have died&nbsp;in Pakistan's Punjab, and&nbsp;13 reported dead elsewhere in Pakistan, including three in Pak-occupied Kashmir.

The province of Sindh is the worst affected where 31 have been declared dead.

31 dead --- in the annual monsoon deluge.

"You can see there is havoc. People are so annoyed. No vehicle can pass through the streets as all ways are inundated. We appeal to the government that must do something and clean storm nullahs (storm water drains) so the people would take a breath of relief," a local said.

At least eight people have died in Karachi alone, mostly due to electrocution and drowning.

To top this, now, sewage water is flooding homes in low-lying areas. Earlier this month, troops helped pump out rainwater, and this time disaster relief is yet to arrive.

Locals have alleged that the residents have had to save their homes, resources and their families on their own with no help from the government.

Every year, many cities 'go under' after heavy rains due to poor city planning. In the case of Karachi, it is due to outdated sewage systems.

In a major setback to Prime Minister Imran Khan, the US is probing Pakistanis who were fighting for the Islamic State in Syria. At least 29 Pakistanis have been caught by the US-backed Kurdish-Syrian democratic forces, and nine of them are women.

In a major setback to Prime Minister Imran Khan, the US is probing Pakistanis who were fighting for the Islamic State in Syria. At least 29 Pakistanis have been caught by the US-backed Kurdish-Syrian democratic forces, and nine of them are women. They are all being interrogated by the US. The interrogations will focus on who sent them to fight for the Islamic State, their previous affiliations with terror groups in Pakistan and if they have links with Pakistan's secret agency Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI). Also read: Flash floods ravage region around Kabul, at least 46 dead in Afghanistan For Prime Minister Imran Khan, this is another embarrassment and it has come at the worst possible time. In October, the FATF (Financial Action Task Force) is set to review Pakistan's record. The FATF is a terror financing watchdog, and Pakistan has been on its grey list. It should be in the black list, but countries such as China, Turkey and Malaysia save Pakistan from that, so it remains in the grey list. Pakistan wants to step out of this grey list but revelations like these will make sure it stays where it is. Meanwhile, the people of Pakistan are worried as the floods are destroying their houses and resources. Heavy rains have killed at least 90 people and damaged 1,000 homes across the country. The city of Karachi is living under water. The locals are frustratedwith the government as this happens every monsoon season. Have a look: Heavy monsoon rains trigger flash floods in Afghanistan and Pakistan Three days of monsoon rains have left Pakistan flooded with more than 90 fatalities, and thousands of homes destroyed. Nearly 23 people have been declared dead in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, 15 are dead in Baluchistan, eight have died in Pakistan's Punjab, and 13 reported dead elsewhere in Pakistan, including three in Pak-occupied Kashmir. The province of Sindh is the worst affected where 31 have been declared dead. 31 dead --- in the annual monsoon deluge. "You can see there is havoc. People are so annoyed. No vehicle can pass through the streets as all ways are inundated. We appeal to the government that must do something and clean storm nullahs (storm water drains) so the people would take a breath of relief," a local said. At least eight people have died in Karachi alone, mostly due to electrocution and drowning. To top this, now, sewage water is flooding homes in low-lying areas. Earlier this month, troops helped pump out rainwater, and this time disaster relief is yet to arrive. Locals have alleged that the residents have had to save their homes, resources and their families on their own with no help from the government. Every year, many cities 'go under' after heavy rains due to poor city planning. In the case of Karachi, it is due to outdated sewage systems.

Monsoon floods, Pakistani terrorists in Syria: Troubles for Imran Khan increase

The United States has started investigating Pakistani's role in the Islamic State movement in Syria after the&nbsp;Kurd Syrian Democratic Forces released a list of 29 names of Paksitanis are in custody.

This can, as per experts, complicate things for the Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan who is already stuck in the damage caused by his unsuccessful attempt to get two important FATF-linked legislations enacted

The list includes names of four Pakistanis who claim to have citizenship of countries such as Turkey and Sudan.&nbsp;Nine out of the 29 terrorists are women fighters.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-urges-taliban-leaders-to-start-peace-talks-323092">Also read:&nbsp;Pakistan urges Taliban leaders to start peace talks</a>

The terrorists are being interrogated about their mission and their past connections with various terrorist groups.&nbsp;“The American security forces are currently interrogating these Pakistani nationals including who sent them to fight for IS in Syria and their past affiliations with terrorist groups like the Al Qaida or any other pan-Islamic group based in Pakistan. As the Pakistani deep state is involved with the so-called Islamic State of Khorasan Province in Afghanistan, the interrogation will also reveal its role if any,” said a counter-terror official in know of the list.

The terrorists were in Syria to fight for the so-called Islamic State, which is an ultra-onservative radical Sunni movement in Iraq and Syria, and has increased in the past decade.

Reports claim the terrorists are freelancers as the Islamic State does not hold any territory&nbsp;in Iraq or Syria.

The United States has started investigating Pakistani's role in the Islamic State movement in Syria after the Kurd Syrian Democratic Forces released a list of 29 names of Paksitanis are in custody.

The United States has started investigating Pakistani's role in the Islamic State movement in Syria after the Kurd Syrian Democratic Forces released a list of 29 names of Paksitanis are in custody. This can, as per experts, complicate things for the Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan who is already stuck in the damage caused by his unsuccessful attempt to get two important FATF-linked legislations enacted The list includes names of four Pakistanis who claim to have citizenship of countries such as Turkey and Sudan. Nine out of the 29 terrorists are women fighters. Also read: Pakistan urges Taliban leaders to start peace talks The terrorists are being interrogated about their mission and their past connections with various terrorist groups. “The American security forces are currently interrogating these Pakistani nationals including who sent them to fight for IS in Syria and their past affiliations with terrorist groups like the Al Qaida or any other pan-Islamic group based in Pakistan. As the Pakistani deep state is involved with the so-called Islamic State of Khorasan Province in Afghanistan, the interrogation will also reveal its role if any,” said a counter-terror official in know of the list. The terrorists were in Syria to fight for the so-called Islamic State, which is an ultra-onservative radical Sunni movement in Iraq and Syria, and has increased in the past decade. Reports claim the terrorists are freelancers as the Islamic State does not hold any territory in Iraq or Syria.

US starts investigating 9 Pakistani terrorists held in Syria

Afghanistan has killed Assadullah Orakzai, the intelligence head for the Islamic State Khorasan Province (ISKP), National Directorate of Security (NDS) says.

The group is responsible for carrying out the March 25 Kabul gurdwara attack in which at least 25 Sikhs were killed.

The NDS told TOLO News that the IS commander was killed on Saturday during an operation near Jalalabad city, the capial of Nangarhar province.

"The Special Units of the NDS have eliminated Ziaurrahman known as Assadullah Orakzai, the native of Akhel Orakzai agency of Pakistan during a targeted operation," the agency said in a statement.

Orakzai was involved in plotting deadly attacks on a number of military and civilian targets in Afghanistan.

On April 4, the NDS announced the arrest of Abdullah Orakzai, who is known as Aslam Farooqi, the leader of the ISKP and 19 other IS members.

Afghanistan has killed Assadullah Orakzai, the intelligence head for the Islamic State Khorasan Province (ISKP), National Directorate of Security (NDS) says. The group is responsible for carrying out the March 25 Kabul gurdwara attack in which at least 25 Sikhs were killed.

Afghanistan has killed Assadullah Orakzai, the intelligence head for the Islamic State Khorasan Province (ISKP), National Directorate of Security (NDS) says. The group is responsible for carrying out the March 25 Kabul gurdwara attack in which at least 25 Sikhs were killed. The NDS told TOLO News that the IS commander was killed on Saturday during an operation near Jalalabad city, the capial of Nangarhar province. "The Special Units of the NDS have eliminated Ziaurrahman known as Assadullah Orakzai, the native of Akhel Orakzai agency of Pakistan during a targeted operation," the agency said in a statement. Orakzai was involved in plotting deadly attacks on a number of military and civilian targets in Afghanistan. On April 4, the NDS announced the arrest of Abdullah Orakzai, who is known as Aslam Farooqi, the leader of the ISKP and 19 other IS members.

IS intel chief reportedly killed in Afghanistan

By Aviva Guttmann

In the shadow of the coronavirus pandemic, the crises of tomorrow can fester. A resurgence of Islamic State (IS) is likely to be one of them.

In recent weeks, IS has carried out a spate of attacks on security forces in Iraq and different areas of Syria. There are striking similarities between these current developments and events that happened in 2013-14 as IS seized huge swathes of territory in Iraq and Syria.

The threat of a resurgent IS is mounting and governments around the world could be about to make the same mistake again of missing it and reacting too late. Based on my ongoing research investigating why the rise of IS in 2013 came as a strategic surprise to European governments, I’ve identified the seven most eye-catching parallels between 2013 and today.

1. Declared dead prematurely

After the death of Osama Bin Laden in 2011, the various branches of al-Qaida in Afghanistan and Pakistan, Syria and Iraq, Yemen, the Horn of Africa, and the Sahel and Maghreb refocused more locally. The remaining leadership directly addressed grievances against their respective local governments. Al-Qaida seemed to be on the defensive and leaders in Europe and the US expected it to stop posing a national threat.

Similarly to today, it was misleading to hope that IS would decline after its leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi was killed in October 2019 in a US special forces raid. Like when it emerged out of al-Qaida in Iraq, IS might very well resurge under its new leader, Amir Mohammed Abdul Rahman al-Mawli al-Salbi.

2. Risk of prison breaks 
 
One of IS’s most successful operations was its 2012-13 prison escape campaign Breaking the Walls to free veteran fighters. The campaign was remarkable due to its length and level of organisation, including the major break of Abu Ghraib, Iraq in July 2013 in which more than 500 prisoners escaped.

The IS prisons in northern Syria are currently run by the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), the primarily Kurdish militia that defeated IS with the support of the west. Overcrowded and understaffed, the SDF has called these prisons a ticking time bomb.

According to Iraqi intelligence, IS has been preparing a prison break campaign, which it calls Break Down the Fences. A systematic prison break campaign similar to Breaking the Walls could pave the way for a resurgence of IS in Iraq and Syria.

3. Car bombs and insurgency attacks 
 
In 2013 more than 8,000 Iraqis were killed by IS, mainly through choreographed suicide bombings. Today, IS is again launching increasingly sophisticated insurgent attacks in Syria and Iraq. This type of violence might be a prelude to a more forceful military return of IS in northern Iraq.

Concentrated in areas beyond the reach of Iraqi and Kurdish security forces, in January a UN report warned that IS is preparing for a steady and gradual return.

4. Western fatigue 
 
The coalition against IS proclaimed that the group had been defeated in March 2019 when it liberated Baghuz, the last city under control of the group. Should IS surge again, the coalition’s efforts would have been in vain. Military action would have to be continued, the SDF further reinforced, and the Iraqi security forces strengthened – not what western governments were hoping for.

In 2013, US and UK public opinion was very negative about the Iraq war, which was largely considered a failure. This resulting “war fatigue” and the desire to militarily leave the Middle East affected the UK’s decision not to intervene in Syria in 2013.

Today’s politicians are wary of contributing resources once again to the fight against this never-ending Jihadi whack-a-mole. The Iraqi parliament’s non-binding resolution to expel US troops after the American assassination of Iranian General Qassem Soleimani in January has added another layer of complication.

5. Risk of a power vacuum in Iraq 
 
In a difference to 2013, the highly polarised sectarian divide between Sunnis and Shias in Iraq – one of the root causes of IS’s appeal to frustrated Iraqi Sunnis – seems to have faded. Yet, Iraq still has a very fragile government and a newly designated prime minister, Mustafa al-Kadhimi, who faces huge challenges.

For the time being the government is holding, although further protests like those which began in October 2019, a lack of reforms, and a weakening economy might destabilise the country. Another round of chaos caused by a collapsing government would quickly be exploited by IS to recruit disenchanted citizens.

6. Risk of a power vacuum in Syria

One element that helped IS gain strength in 2013-14 was the ongoing war in Syria, which created a power vacuum that was filled by IS. Other factors that contributed to the group’s success included the departure of US troops from Iraq in late 2011; and Turkey’s subsequent policy to relax its border controls with Syria, which allowed foreign fighters to join IS.

Today, the Syrian civil war and foreign actors might facilitate an IS revival. American disengagement from northern Syria and Turkey’s military campaign in the country that started in October 2019 forced the SDF to redirect its forces towards the north-east. The SDF therefore has fewer resources to devote to the sustained efforts that are needed to prevent IS from resurging.

In early March 2020, a Turkish-Russian deal was concluded, which among others agreed to stop the fighting in Idlib in Syria’s north west. Yet, given the strategic and symbolic importance of Idlib for those involved in the conflict, experts fear that the deal might not last.

Meanwhile, the SDF’s redeployment of forces to defend Kurdish regions against the Turkish incursion has already opened the door for IS to regain footholds in the Deir Ezzor area, IS’s last stronghold before its territorial defeat in March 2019.

7. Foreign fighters and a global presence 
 
In 2013 and 2014, IS was able to attract large numbers of foreign fighters, at the time estimated at 11,000 from 74 nations.

While the flow of foreign fighters coming to Iraq and Syria has now nearly halted, IS still maintains strong propaganda machinery. Groups around the world have kept affiliations with IS, such as in West Africa and south-east Asia, and IS still has the capacity to prepare or inspire terrorist attacks around the world.

Given these elements, it seems highly probable that IS will regroup, gain territories, and pose a global threat once again. With coronavirus now clouding the picture, governments around the world have neither paid attention nor devoted enough resources to prevent a possible IS surge.

The international community would be wise to learn from 2013 and tackle each of these different warning signals now. Addressing them individually is much more feasible and could prevent IS from rising again. 
 
(Aviva Guttmann is Research Associate in Intelligence and International Security, King's College London) 
 
(This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/islamic-state-could-be-about-to-hit-back-and-the-world-is-paying-little-attention-136340">original article)</a> &nbsp;

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

By Aviva Guttmann In the shadow of the coronavirus pandemic, the crises of tomorrow can fester. A resurgence of Islamic State (IS) is likely to be one of them. In recent weeks, IS has carried out a spate of attacks on security forces in Iraq and different areas of Syria.

By Aviva Guttmann In the shadow of the coronavirus pandemic, the crises of tomorrow can fester. A resurgence of Islamic State (IS) is likely to be one of them. In recent weeks, IS has carried out a spate of attacks on security forces in Iraq and different areas of Syria. There are striking similarities between these current developments and events that happened in 2013-14 as IS seized huge swathes of territory in Iraq and Syria. The threat of a resurgent IS is mounting and governments around the world could be about to make the same mistake again of missing it and reacting too late. Based on my ongoing research investigating why the rise of IS in 2013 came as a strategic surprise to European governments, I’ve identified the seven most eye-catching parallels between 2013 and today. 1. Declared dead prematurely After the death of Osama Bin Laden in 2011, the various branches of al-Qaida in Afghanistan and Pakistan, Syria and Iraq, Yemen, the Horn of Africa, and the Sahel and Maghreb refocused more locally. The remaining leadership directly addressed grievances against their respective local governments. Al-Qaida seemed to be on the defensive and leaders in Europe and the US expected it to stop posing a national threat. Similarly to today, it was misleading to hope that IS would decline after its leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi was killed in October 2019 in a US special forces raid. Like when it emerged out of al-Qaida in Iraq, IS might very well resurge under its new leader, Amir Mohammed Abdul Rahman al-Mawli al-Salbi. 2. Risk of prison breaks One of IS’s most successful operations was its 2012-13 prison escape campaign Breaking the Walls to free veteran fighters. The campaign was remarkable due to its length and level of organisation, including the major break of Abu Ghraib, Iraq in July 2013 in which more than 500 prisoners escaped. The IS prisons in northern Syria are currently run by the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), the primarily Kurdish militia that defeated IS with the support of the west. Overcrowded and understaffed, the SDF has called these prisons a ticking time bomb. According to Iraqi intelligence, IS has been preparing a prison break campaign, which it calls Break Down the Fences. A systematic prison break campaign similar to Breaking the Walls could pave the way for a resurgence of IS in Iraq and Syria. 3. Car bombs and insurgency attacks In 2013 more than 8,000 Iraqis were killed by IS, mainly through choreographed suicide bombings. Today, IS is again launching increasingly sophisticated insurgent attacks in Syria and Iraq. This type of violence might be a prelude to a more forceful military return of IS in northern Iraq. Concentrated in areas beyond the reach of Iraqi and Kurdish security forces, in January a UN report warned that IS is preparing for a steady and gradual return. 4. Western fatigue The coalition against IS proclaimed that the group had been defeated in March 2019 when it liberated Baghuz, the last city under control of the group. Should IS surge again, the coalition’s efforts would have been in vain. Military action would have to be continued, the SDF further reinforced, and the Iraqi security forces strengthened – not what western governments were hoping for. In 2013, US and UK public opinion was very negative about the Iraq war, which was largely considered a failure. This resulting “war fatigue” and the desire to militarily leave the Middle East affected the UK’s decision not to intervene in Syria in 2013. Today’s politicians are wary of contributing resources once again to the fight against this never-ending Jihadi whack-a-mole. The Iraqi parliament’s non-binding resolution to expel US troops after the American assassination of Iranian General Qassem Soleimani in January has added another layer of complication. 5. Risk of a power vacuum in Iraq In a difference to 2013, the highly polarised sectarian divide between Sunnis and Shias in Iraq – one of the root causes of IS’s appeal to frustrated Iraqi Sunnis – seems to have faded. Yet, Iraq still has a very fragile government and a newly designated prime minister, Mustafa al-Kadhimi, who faces huge challenges. For the time being the government is holding, although further protests like those which began in October 2019, a lack of reforms, and a weakening economy might destabilise the country. Another round of chaos caused by a collapsing government would quickly be exploited by IS to recruit disenchanted citizens. 6. Risk of a power vacuum in Syria One element that helped IS gain strength in 2013-14 was the ongoing war in Syria, which created a power vacuum that was filled by IS. Other factors that contributed to the group’s success included the departure of US troops from Iraq in late 2011; and Turkey’s subsequent policy to relax its border controls with Syria, which allowed foreign fighters to join IS. Today, the Syrian civil war and foreign actors might facilitate an IS revival. American disengagement from northern Syria and Turkey’s military campaign in the country that started in October 2019 forced the SDF to redirect its forces towards the north-east. The SDF therefore has fewer resources to devote to the sustained efforts that are needed to prevent IS from resurging. In early March 2020, a Turkish-Russian deal was concluded, which among others agreed to stop the fighting in Idlib in Syria’s north west. Yet, given the strategic and symbolic importance of Idlib for those involved in the conflict, experts fear that the deal might not last. Meanwhile, the SDF’s redeployment of forces to defend Kurdish regions against the Turkish incursion has already opened the door for IS to regain footholds in the Deir Ezzor area, IS’s last stronghold before its territorial defeat in March 2019. 7. Foreign fighters and a global presence In 2013 and 2014, IS was able to attract large numbers of foreign fighters, at the time estimated at 11,000 from 74 nations. While the flow of foreign fighters coming to Iraq and Syria has now nearly halted, IS still maintains strong propaganda machinery. Groups around the world have kept affiliations with IS, such as in West Africa and south-east Asia, and IS still has the capacity to prepare or inspire terrorist attacks around the world. Given these elements, it seems highly probable that IS will regroup, gain territories, and pose a global threat once again. With coronavirus now clouding the picture, governments around the world have neither paid attention nor devoted enough resources to prevent a possible IS surge. The international community would be wise to learn from 2013 and tackle each of these different warning signals now. Addressing them individually is much more feasible and could prevent IS from rising again. (Aviva Guttmann is Research Associate in Intelligence and International Security, King's College London) (This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Islamic State could be about to hit back – and the world is paying little attention

An Indonesian maid was jailed for two years in Singapore Thursday for giving money to an Islamic State-linked terror outfit blamed for a string of attacks in her home country.&nbsp;

The affluent city-state is home to over 250,000 maids from neighbouring Indonesia and has seen a string of cases where foreign domestic helpers have allegedly been radicalised.&nbsp;

Anindia Afiyantari donated Sg$130 (US$94) last year to charities used as fronts by Indonesia-based Jamaah Ansharut Daulah (JAD), described by prosecutors as among "the most dangerous terrorist organisations" in Southeast Asia.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indonesia-seizes-half-a-million-virus-masks-amid-panic-buying-284196">Indonesia seizes half a million virus masks amid panic buying</a>

It has been blamed for attacks, including the stabbing of President Joko Widodo's chief security minister Wiranto and deadly suicide bombings at several churches.

"The accused's actions of plotting to finance terrorist acts... strike at the very heart of Singapore's harmony," prosecutors said, according to court documents.

The 33-year-old who earned Sg$600 a month was introduced to radical religious teachings by other Indonesian domestic helpers in Singapore.

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indonesia-two-hurt-in-suspected-grenade-blast-near-presidential-palace-265828">Indonesia: Two hurt in suspected grenade blast near presidential palace</a>

As well as donating to charities, she uploaded videos of bombings and killings by the Islamic State group on Facebook and created new accounts when her posts were blocked, prosecutors said.

The jihadists controlled large areas of Iraq and Syria until their defeat last year.

Two other Indonesian maids were jailed in Singapore last month one for 18 months and the other 45 months after pleading guilty to charges of financing terrorism.

An Indonesian maid was jailed for two years in Singapore Thursday for giving money to an Islamic State-linked terror outfit blamed for a string of attacks in her home country.

An Indonesian maid was jailed for two years in Singapore Thursday for giving money to an Islamic State-linked terror outfit blamed for a string of attacks in her home country. The affluent city-state is home to over 250,000 maids from neighbouring Indonesia and has seen a string of cases where foreign domestic helpers have allegedly been radicalised. Anindia Afiyantari donated Sg$130 (US$94) last year to charities used as fronts by Indonesia-based Jamaah Ansharut Daulah (JAD), described by prosecutors as among "the most dangerous terrorist organisations" in Southeast Asia. Also read: Indonesia seizes half a million virus masks amid panic buying It has been blamed for attacks, including the stabbing of President Joko Widodo's chief security minister Wiranto and deadly suicide bombings at several churches. "The accused's actions of plotting to finance terrorist acts... strike at the very heart of Singapore's harmony," prosecutors said, according to court documents. The 33-year-old who earned Sg$600 a month was introduced to radical religious teachings by other Indonesian domestic helpers in Singapore. Also see: Indonesia: Two hurt in suspected grenade blast near presidential palace As well as donating to charities, she uploaded videos of bombings and killings by the Islamic State group on Facebook and created new accounts when her posts were blocked, prosecutors said. The jihadists controlled large areas of Iraq and Syria until their defeat last year. Two other Indonesian maids were jailed in Singapore last month one for 18 months and the other 45 months after pleading guilty to charges of financing terrorism.

Singapore jails Indonesian maid for funding IS-linked group

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