Pakistan has failed to complete 25 of the 27 action points given by the international <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-to-stay-on-fatfs-grey-list-official-to-wion-222508">terror financing watchdog FATF</a> to check funding to terrorist groups such as LeT and JeM and frontal groups like Jamat-ud-Dawah and Falah-e-Insaniat Foundation.

With this, multilateral lenders like the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistans-currency-reaches-all-time-low-against-us-dollar-219221"> IMF</a>, the World Bank and the EU may continue downgrading Pakistan, making its financial situation more precarious.

The Paris-headquartered Financial Action Task Force has asked Pakistan to explain whether it has launched any investigation into the seven million US dollars allocated to maintain schools, madrasas, clinics and ambulances originally operated by terror groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jk-three-jem-terrorists-shot-in-pulwama-encounter-soldier-civilian-also-killed-219169">Jaish-e-Mohammed</a>, and LeT fronts Jamat-ud-Dawah and Falah-e-Insaniat Foundation.

JuD and FIF are founded by terror mastermind Hafiz Saeed.

LeT is responsible for a number of terrorist strikes in India, including the 2008 Mumbai attacks and the hijacking of an Indian Airlines aircraft to Afghanistan in 1999.

Most recently, it attacked a CRPF bus in Pulwama in Feb this year, killing 40 soldiers.

Pakistan is in deep trouble at the FATF meeting beginning Sunday in Florida in the US, people aware of the development said.

"It has been unable to complete 25 of its 27 action points. It has one last chance, till its 15-month deadline ends in October 2019, when the FATF Plenary will be held," one of them added.

In June 2018, Pakistan was placed in the 'Gray' list and given a 27-point action plan by FATF. This plan was reviewed at the last plenary in October 2018 and for the second time in February this year, when the country was again put into the 'Gray' list after India submitted new information about Pakistan-based terrorist groups.

The FATF continuing Pakistan in the 'Gray' list means its downgrading by IMF, World Bank, ADB, EU and also a reduction in risk rating by Moody's, S&amp;P and Fitch.

This will add to the financial problems of Pakistan, which is seeking aid from all possible international avenues.

In a bid to bluff the financial watchdog, Pakistani authorities have shown arrests of LeT, JeM, JuD and FiF cadres. But all were apprehended under its Maintenance of Public Order Act and not under the Anti-Terrorism Act, 1997.

Under the MPO Act, authorities cannot hold a detainee beyond 60 days.

Pakistan has detained JeM founder Masood Azhar and LeT founder Hafiz Saeed mostly under the laws that provide for detention for the apprehension of breach of peace; they have never been prosecuted under anti-terror laws.

The FATF implements UN designations, which do not warrant arrest. They ask only for the freeze of funds, denial of access to weapons and travel embargo. The financial watchdog also wants nations to impose penalties that are proportionate and dissuasive.

The MPO Act is not seen as satisfying either of the two conditions. Therefore, none of these arrests will satisfy the FATF or the UN Designations Committee.

Pakistan has also seized several hundred properties of LeT, JuD, FiF and JeM, including schools and madrasas.

However, these properties are now being run by its provincial governments.

The Punjab provincial government has allocated $2 million (Pakistani Rs 30 crore or Indian Rs 14 crore) per annum for their upkeep. Similarly, other provinces have allocated&nbsp;5 million US dollars.

The annual expense allocated by Pakistan totals $7 million (Pakistani Rs 105 or Indian Rs 49 crore).

The FATF has now asked Pakistan to explain whether there are any terror-funding investigations to unearth the sources and entities that funded these organisations with $7 million per annum for the past several years.

The FATF currently has 35 members and two regional organisations,&nbsp;the European Commission and the Gulf Cooperation Council.

In the last meeting of the FATF in Paris, the FATF said Pakistan should continue to work on implementing its action plan to address its strategic deficiencies, including by adequately demonstrating its proper understanding of the terror financing risks posed by the terrorist groups and conducting supervision on a risk-sensitive basis, demonstrating that remedial actions and sanctions are applied in cases of Anti-Money Laundering and Combating Financing of Terrorism violations and that these actions have an effect on AML/CFT compliance by financial institutions.

Pakistan, it said, should demonstrate that competent authorities are cooperating and taking action to identify and take enforcement action against illegal money or value transfer services, demonstrating that authorities are identifying cash couriers and enforcing controls on illicit movement of currency and understanding the risk of cash couriers being used for terror financing (TF), improving inter-agency coordination including between provincial and federal authorities on combating TF risks besides others.

Pakistan has failed to complete 25 of the 27 action points given by the international terror financing watchdog FATF to check funding to terrorist groups such as LeT and JeM and frontal groups like Jamat-ud-Dawah and Falah-e-Insaniat Foundation.

Pakistan has failed to complete 25 of the 27 action points given by the international terror financing watchdog FATF to check funding to terrorist groups such as LeT and JeM and frontal groups like Jamat-ud-Dawah and Falah-e-Insaniat Foundation. With this, multilateral lenders like the IMF, the World Bank and the EU may continue downgrading Pakistan, making its financial situation more precarious. The Paris-headquartered Financial Action Task Force has asked Pakistan to explain whether it has launched any investigation into the seven million US dollars allocated to maintain schools, madrasas, clinics and ambulances originally operated by terror groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba, Jaish-e-Mohammed, and LeT fronts Jamat-ud-Dawah and Falah-e-Insaniat Foundation. JuD and FIF are founded by terror mastermind Hafiz Saeed. LeT is responsible for a number of terrorist strikes in India, including the 2008 Mumbai attacks and the hijacking of an Indian Airlines aircraft to Afghanistan in 1999. Most recently, it attacked a CRPF bus in Pulwama in Feb this year, killing 40 soldiers. Pakistan is in deep trouble at the FATF meeting beginning Sunday in Florida in the US, people aware of the development said. "It has been unable to complete 25 of its 27 action points. It has one last chance, till its 15-month deadline ends in October 2019, when the FATF Plenary will be held," one of them added. In June 2018, Pakistan was placed in the 'Gray' list and given a 27-point action plan by FATF. This plan was reviewed at the last plenary in October 2018 and for the second time in February this year, when the country was again put into the 'Gray' list after India submitted new information about Pakistan-based terrorist groups. The FATF continuing Pakistan in the 'Gray' list means its downgrading by IMF, World Bank, ADB, EU and also a reduction in risk rating by Moody's, S&P and Fitch. This will add to the financial problems of Pakistan, which is seeking aid from all possible international avenues. In a bid to bluff the financial watchdog, Pakistani authorities have shown arrests of LeT, JeM, JuD and FiF cadres. But all were apprehended under its Maintenance of Public Order Act and not under the Anti-Terrorism Act, 1997. Under the MPO Act, authorities cannot hold a detainee beyond 60 days. Pakistan has detained JeM founder Masood Azhar and LeT founder Hafiz Saeed mostly under the laws that provide for detention for the apprehension of breach of peace; they have never been prosecuted under anti-terror laws. The FATF implements UN designations, which do not warrant arrest. They ask only for the freeze of funds, denial of access to weapons and travel embargo. The financial watchdog also wants nations to impose penalties that are proportionate and dissuasive. The MPO Act is not seen as satisfying either of the two conditions. Therefore, none of these arrests will satisfy the FATF or the UN Designations Committee. Pakistan has also seized several hundred properties of LeT, JuD, FiF and JeM, including schools and madrasas. However, these properties are now being run by its provincial governments. The Punjab provincial government has allocated $2 million (Pakistani Rs 30 crore or Indian Rs 14 crore) per annum for their upkeep. Similarly, other provinces have allocated 5 million US dollars. The annual expense allocated by Pakistan totals $7 million (Pakistani Rs 105 or Indian Rs 49 crore). The FATF has now asked Pakistan to explain whether there are any terror-funding investigations to unearth the sources and entities that funded these organisations with $7 million per annum for the past several years. The FATF currently has 35 members and two regional organisations, the European Commission and the Gulf Cooperation Council. In the last meeting of the FATF in Paris, the FATF said Pakistan should continue to work on implementing its action plan to address its strategic deficiencies, including by adequately demonstrating its proper understanding of the terror financing risks posed by the terrorist groups and conducting supervision on a risk-sensitive basis, demonstrating that remedial actions and sanctions are applied in cases of Anti-Money Laundering and Combating Financing of Terrorism violations and that these actions have an effect on AML/CFT compliance by financial institutions. Pakistan, it said, should demonstrate that competent authorities are cooperating and taking action to identify and take enforcement action against illegal money or value transfer services, demonstrating that authorities are identifying cash couriers and enforcing controls on illicit movement of currency and understanding the risk of cash couriers being used for terror financing (TF), improving inter-agency coordination including between provincial and federal authorities on combating TF risks besides others.

Pakistan fails to complete points given by terror financing watchdog FATF: Report

Pakistan on Monday decided in principle to let Prime Minister Narendra Modi's aircraft fly over its airspace to Bishkek in Kyrgyzstan where he has to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit on June 13-14, where his Pakistani counterpart Imran Khan would also be present.

Pakistan had fully closed its airspace on February 26 after an Indian Air Force (IAF) strike on a Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terror camp in Balakot. Since then, it has only opened two routes, both of them pass through southern Pakistan, of the total 11.

India requested Pakistan to let Prime Minister Modi's aircraft fly over its airspace to Bishkek in Kyrgyzstan.

The official confirmed to PTI that the Imran Khan government has approved in principle the Indian government's request to let Prime Minister Modi's aircraft fly over the Pakistani airspace to Bishkek.

"The Indian government will be conveyed about the decision once the procedural formalities are completed. The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) will also be directed to notify the airmen subsequently," the official said, adding Pakistan was hopeful that India would respond to its offer for peace dialogue.

He said Prime Minister Khan has recently written a letter to his Indian counterpart stressing Pakistan requires a solution for all geopolitical issues including Kashmir between the two neighbouring states.

The official further said Pakistan is still optimistic that India will respond to peace offer despite the fact both premiers were not meeting at the sidelines of the SCO Summit.

External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar in New Delhi said no bilateral meeting has been arranged between Prime Minister Modi and his Pakistani counterpart on the sidelines of the SCO Summit.

Pakistan had given special permission to India's then external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj to fly directly through Pakistani airspace to attend the SCO Foreign Ministers' meet in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, on May 21.

Apart from the two routes through southern Pakistan, the neighbouring country's airspace remains closed for commercial airliners.

The IAF announced on May 31 that all temporary restrictions imposed on Indian airspace post the Balakot airstrike have been removed. However, it is unlikely to benefit any commercial airliners unless Pakistan reciprocates and opens its complete airspace.

Among Indian airlines, the international operations of Air India and IndiGo have been affected by the closure of Pakistani airspace.

IndiGo, India's largest airline by the share in the domestic passenger market, has been unable to start direct flights from Delhi to Istanbul due to the closure of Pakistani airspace.

The low-cost carrier started the Delhi-Istanbul flight in March this year. It has to take the longer route every time over the Arabian Sea and make a stop either at Doha in Qatar or at Ahmedabad in Gujarat for refuelling.

Similarly, full-service carrier Air India is unable to fly non-stop flights from Delhi to the US since the closure of Pakistani airspace.

Pakistan, however, has extended its partial airspace ban on the eastern border with India until June 14.&nbsp;

Pakistan on Monday decided in principle to let Prime Minister Narendra Modi's aircraft fly over its airspace to Bishkek in Kyrgyzstan where he has to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit on June 13-14, where his Pakistani counterpart Imran Khan would also be present.

Pakistan on Monday decided in principle to let Prime Minister Narendra Modi's aircraft fly over its airspace to Bishkek in Kyrgyzstan where he has to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit on June 13-14, where his Pakistani counterpart Imran Khan would also be present. Pakistan had fully closed its airspace on February 26 after an Indian Air Force (IAF) strike on a Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terror camp in Balakot. Since then, it has only opened two routes, both of them pass through southern Pakistan, of the total 11. India requested Pakistan to let Prime Minister Modi's aircraft fly over its airspace to Bishkek in Kyrgyzstan. The official confirmed to PTI that the Imran Khan government has approved in principle the Indian government's request to let Prime Minister Modi's aircraft fly over the Pakistani airspace to Bishkek. "The Indian government will be conveyed about the decision once the procedural formalities are completed. The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) will also be directed to notify the airmen subsequently," the official said, adding Pakistan was hopeful that India would respond to its offer for peace dialogue. He said Prime Minister Khan has recently written a letter to his Indian counterpart stressing Pakistan requires a solution for all geopolitical issues including Kashmir between the two neighbouring states. The official further said Pakistan is still optimistic that India will respond to peace offer despite the fact both premiers were not meeting at the sidelines of the SCO Summit. External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar in New Delhi said no bilateral meeting has been arranged between Prime Minister Modi and his Pakistani counterpart on the sidelines of the SCO Summit. Pakistan had given special permission to India's then external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj to fly directly through Pakistani airspace to attend the SCO Foreign Ministers' meet in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, on May 21. Apart from the two routes through southern Pakistan, the neighbouring country's airspace remains closed for commercial airliners. The IAF announced on May 31 that all temporary restrictions imposed on Indian airspace post the Balakot airstrike have been removed. However, it is unlikely to benefit any commercial airliners unless Pakistan reciprocates and opens its complete airspace. Among Indian airlines, the international operations of Air India and IndiGo have been affected by the closure of Pakistani airspace. IndiGo, India's largest airline by the share in the domestic passenger market, has been unable to start direct flights from Delhi to Istanbul due to the closure of Pakistani airspace. The low-cost carrier started the Delhi-Istanbul flight in March this year. It has to take the longer route every time over the Arabian Sea and make a stop either at Doha in Qatar or at Ahmedabad in Gujarat for refuelling. Similarly, full-service carrier Air India is unable to fly non-stop flights from Delhi to the US since the closure of Pakistani airspace. Pakistan, however, has extended its partial airspace ban on the eastern border with India until June 14.

Pakistan decides to let PM Modi's plane fly over its airspace to Bishkek for SCO summit

India has requested Pakistan to let Prime Minister Narendra Modi's aircraft fly over its airspace to Bishkek in Kyrgyzstan where he has to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit on June 13 and June 14, said a senior government official.

Pakistan had fully closed its airspace on February 26 after an Indian Air Force (IAF) strike on a Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terror camp in Balakot. Since then, it has only opened two routes, both of them pass through southern Pakistan, of the total 11.

"We have requested Pakistan to let the PM's plane fly over its airspace through one of the routes that has not been opened as yet. The PM has to attend the SCO meet on June 13 and June 14," a senior government official said.

Pakistan had given special permission to India's then external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj to fly directly through Pakistani airspace to attend the SCO Foreign Ministers' meet in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, on May 21.

Apart from the two routes through southern Pakistan, the neighbouring country's airspace remains closed for commercial airliners.

The IAF announced on May 31 that all temporary restrictions imposed on Indian airspace post the Balakot airstrike have been removed. However, it is unlikely to benefit any commercial airliners unless Pakistan reciprocates and opens its complete airspace.

Among Indian airlines, the international operations of Air India and IndiGo have been affected by the closure of Pakistani airspace.

IndiGo, India's largest airline by a share in the domestic passenger market, has been unable to start direct flights from Delhi to Istanbul due to the closure of Pakistani airspace.

The low-cost carrier started the Delhi-Istanbul flight in March this year. It has to take the longer route every time over the Arabian Sea and make a stop either at Doha in Qatar or at Ahmedabad in Gujarat for refuelling.

Similarly, full-service carrier Air India is unable to fly non-stop flights from Delhi to the US since the closure of Pakistani airspace.

India has requested Pakistan to let Prime Minister Narendra Modi's aircraft fly over its airspace to Bishkek in Kyrgyzstan where he has to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit on June 13 and June 14, said a senior government official.

India has requested Pakistan to let Prime Minister Narendra Modi's aircraft fly over its airspace to Bishkek in Kyrgyzstan where he has to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit on June 13 and June 14, said a senior government official. Pakistan had fully closed its airspace on February 26 after an Indian Air Force (IAF) strike on a Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terror camp in Balakot. Since then, it has only opened two routes, both of them pass through southern Pakistan, of the total 11. "We have requested Pakistan to let the PM's plane fly over its airspace through one of the routes that has not been opened as yet. The PM has to attend the SCO meet on June 13 and June 14," a senior government official said. Pakistan had given special permission to India's then external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj to fly directly through Pakistani airspace to attend the SCO Foreign Ministers' meet in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, on May 21. Apart from the two routes through southern Pakistan, the neighbouring country's airspace remains closed for commercial airliners. The IAF announced on May 31 that all temporary restrictions imposed on Indian airspace post the Balakot airstrike have been removed. However, it is unlikely to benefit any commercial airliners unless Pakistan reciprocates and opens its complete airspace. Among Indian airlines, the international operations of Air India and IndiGo have been affected by the closure of Pakistani airspace. IndiGo, India's largest airline by a share in the domestic passenger market, has been unable to start direct flights from Delhi to Istanbul due to the closure of Pakistani airspace. The low-cost carrier started the Delhi-Istanbul flight in March this year. It has to take the longer route every time over the Arabian Sea and make a stop either at Doha in Qatar or at Ahmedabad in Gujarat for refuelling. Similarly, full-service carrier Air India is unable to fly non-stop flights from Delhi to the US since the closure of Pakistani airspace.

India requests Pakistan to let PM Modi's flight pass through its airspace during Kyrgyzstan visit

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has written a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi while it's Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi has written to his Indian counterpart&nbsp;Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, pitching for talks between New Delhi and Islamabad.&nbsp;

According to Pakistan government sources, the letters underscored Pakistan's consistent policy of peaceful neighbourhood and the vision of working for durable peace and stability in South Asia.

Adding further, the sources said letter&nbsp;emphasised on the need to work together, on the basis of mutual respect and trust, to address challenges faced by people of both the countries, including poverty and underdevelopment.

The&nbsp;letter also called for the need to advance the goals of regional peace, progress and prosperity through collective endeavours was also underscored.

Ties between the two neighbouring countries have remained frayed since the February 14 Pulwama suicide bombing that left 40 CRPF personnel dead. Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), a United Nations-listed terror group, has claimed the responsibility for the attack

Pakistan's overture comes against the backdrop of the visit of Pakistan Foreign Secretary Sohail Mahmood to India on Eid, during which he offered Namaz at Delhi's historic Jama Masjid. The Minister of External Affairs termed the visit purely "personal".

Meanwhile, the MEA has rejected the reports of a formal meeting between PM Modi and his counterpart Imran Khan on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) next week in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan but a pull aside not ruled out.

"To the best of my knowledge no meeting has been planned between PM Modi and Pakistan PM Imran Khan at the SCO Summit in Bishkek," MEA Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar told WION.

Following the Pulwama attack, India went into overdrive to target Pakistan from multiple fronts. The country's military planes struck a terrorist training camp in Pakistan's Balakot on February 26, prompting a counter-offensive by Pakistan the next day. At the same time, New Delhi worked the diplomatic phone lines to isolate Pakistan internationally.

The first breakthrough came after China allowed the UN to list JeM chief Masood Azhar as a global terrorist.

Breaking the ice in bilateral ties, Imran Khan on May 26 spoke to PM Modi on phone and expressed his desire to work together for peace and prosperity in the region.

Modi on his part called for creating trust and an environment free of violence and terrorism for fostering peace and prosperity in the region.

India has rejected Pakistan's offer of talks, maintaining that terror and talks cannot go together.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has written a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi while it's Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi has written to his Indian counterpart Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, pitching for talks between New Delhi and Islamabad.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has written a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi while it's Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi has written to his Indian counterpart Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, pitching for talks between New Delhi and Islamabad. According to Pakistan government sources, the letters underscored Pakistan's consistent policy of peaceful neighbourhood and the vision of working for durable peace and stability in South Asia. Adding further, the sources said letter emphasised on the need to work together, on the basis of mutual respect and trust, to address challenges faced by people of both the countries, including poverty and underdevelopment. The letter also called for the need to advance the goals of regional peace, progress and prosperity through collective endeavours was also underscored. Ties between the two neighbouring countries have remained frayed since the February 14 Pulwama suicide bombing that left 40 CRPF personnel dead. Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), a United Nations-listed terror group, has claimed the responsibility for the attack Pakistan's overture comes against the backdrop of the visit of Pakistan Foreign Secretary Sohail Mahmood to India on Eid, during which he offered Namaz at Delhi's historic Jama Masjid. The Minister of External Affairs termed the visit purely "personal". Meanwhile, the MEA has rejected the reports of a formal meeting between PM Modi and his counterpart Imran Khan on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) next week in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan but a pull aside not ruled out. "To the best of my knowledge no meeting has been planned between PM Modi and Pakistan PM Imran Khan at the SCO Summit in Bishkek," MEA Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar told WION. Following the Pulwama attack, India went into overdrive to target Pakistan from multiple fronts. The country's military planes struck a terrorist training camp in Pakistan's Balakot on February 26, prompting a counter-offensive by Pakistan the next day. At the same time, New Delhi worked the diplomatic phone lines to isolate Pakistan internationally. The first breakthrough came after China allowed the UN to list JeM chief Masood Azhar as a global terrorist. Breaking the ice in bilateral ties, Imran Khan on May 26 spoke to PM Modi on phone and expressed his desire to work together for peace and prosperity in the region. Modi on his part called for creating trust and an environment free of violence and terrorism for fostering peace and prosperity in the region. India has rejected Pakistan's offer of talks, maintaining that terror and talks cannot go together.

Pakistan's Imran Khan writes to PM Modi, seeks to maintain peaceful neighbourhood

An anti-terrorism court in Pakistan has sentenced three activists of the Masood Azhar-led Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) for five years each in jail for arranging funds for the proscribed terror outfit amid pressure from the global community to rein in militant groups.

The Anti-Terrorism Court found the trio guilty in three separate cases on Friday after funds collected for the militant outfit were recovered from them. They were sent to central prison in Gujranwala in Punjab province.

The convicts M Iftikhar, Muhammad Ajmal and Bilal were also fined Rs 45,000, Rs 50,000 and Rs 40,000 respectively besides the sentence.

The Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) in Gujranwala had earlier registered a case against them, the Express Tribune reported.

According to Punjab CTD spokesperson, the investigations and prosecutions "are being followed to stop proscribed organisations from indulging in terror financing."

The spokesperson warned these organisations and their leaders to desist from such acts or action would be taken against them.

Pakistan launched a crackdown against supporters of militant outfits after pressure from the international community to stop support to the militant groups.

Three members of the Mumbai attack mastermind Hafiz Saeed-led Jamaat-ud-Dawa were arrested Thursday on charges of terror financing in Punjab province.

Six JeM members were arrested for allegedly collecting funds for the terror group on Wednesday.

On Monday, three terrorists belonging to the Islamic State (IS) and Lashkar-e-Jhangvi (LeJ) militant groups were arrested by the CTD officials in Pakistan's Punjab province.

Last week, six activists of the JeM and the Lashkar-e-Jhangvi (LeJ) were arrested by the CTD from Gujranwala, Rawalpindi, Multan and Lahore for allegedly collecting funds to finance terrorism.

Paris-based international terror financing watchdog FATF in June last year placed Pakistan onto its watch list in a bid to push the country to halt support for militant groups.

In February, the FATF decided to continue the 'Grey' listing of Pakistan for its failure to stop funding of terrorist groups such as the JeM, the Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and the JuD.

The Pakistan government arrested over 100 members of banned outfits including JeM chief Azhar's son and brother and also taken control of JeM, JuD and FIF's properties including seminaries and mosques across the country.&nbsp;

An anti-terrorism court in Pakistan has sentenced three activists of the Masood Azhar-led Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) for five years each in jail for arranging funds for the proscribed terror outfit amid pressure from the global community to rein in militant groups.

An anti-terrorism court in Pakistan has sentenced three activists of the Masood Azhar-led Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) for five years each in jail for arranging funds for the proscribed terror outfit amid pressure from the global community to rein in militant groups. The Anti-Terrorism Court found the trio guilty in three separate cases on Friday after funds collected for the militant outfit were recovered from them. They were sent to central prison in Gujranwala in Punjab province. The convicts M Iftikhar, Muhammad Ajmal and Bilal were also fined Rs 45,000, Rs 50,000 and Rs 40,000 respectively besides the sentence. The Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) in Gujranwala had earlier registered a case against them, the Express Tribune reported. According to Punjab CTD spokesperson, the investigations and prosecutions "are being followed to stop proscribed organisations from indulging in terror financing." The spokesperson warned these organisations and their leaders to desist from such acts or action would be taken against them. Pakistan launched a crackdown against supporters of militant outfits after pressure from the international community to stop support to the militant groups. Three members of the Mumbai attack mastermind Hafiz Saeed-led Jamaat-ud-Dawa were arrested Thursday on charges of terror financing in Punjab province. Six JeM members were arrested for allegedly collecting funds for the terror group on Wednesday. On Monday, three terrorists belonging to the Islamic State (IS) and Lashkar-e-Jhangvi (LeJ) militant groups were arrested by the CTD officials in Pakistan's Punjab province. Last week, six activists of the JeM and the Lashkar-e-Jhangvi (LeJ) were arrested by the CTD from Gujranwala, Rawalpindi, Multan and Lahore for allegedly collecting funds to finance terrorism. Paris-based international terror financing watchdog FATF in June last year placed Pakistan onto its watch list in a bid to push the country to halt support for militant groups. In February, the FATF decided to continue the 'Grey' listing of Pakistan for its failure to stop funding of terrorist groups such as the JeM, the Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and the JuD. The Pakistan government arrested over 100 members of banned outfits including JeM chief Azhar's son and brother and also taken control of JeM, JuD and FIF's properties including seminaries and mosques across the country.

Pakistan court sentences three Jaish-e-Mohammed activists for terror funding

Pakistan is ready to hold talks with the new Indian government to resolve all outstanding issues, Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi has said. 
Addressing an Iftar dinner in Multan on Saturday, Qureshi said both India and Pakistan should sit on negotiation table to solve issues for the sake ofprosperity and peace of the region, state-run Radio Pakistan reported.

His remarks came two days after Prime Minister Narendra Modi Thursday led his Bharatiya Janata Party towards a super-sized victory for a second term in office.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Thursday congratulated Modi on his electoral triumph and expressed a desire to work with him for peace and prosperity in the region.

"I congratulate Prime Minister Modi on the electoral victory of BJP and allies. Look forward to working with him for peace, progress and prosperity in South Asia," Khan tweeted in both English and Urdu.

In April, Khan said he believed there may be a better chance of peace talks with India and settle the Kashmir issue if Modi's party wins the general elections.

The results of India's general elections are very significant for Pakistan as the new government in New Delhi will determine the course of Indo-Pakistan ties, which were pushed to a new low after the Pulwama terror attack.

Just a day before the announcement of results, Qureshi and his Indian counterpart Sushma Swaraj on Wednesday exchanged pleasantries on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Council of Foreign Ministers' meeting in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan. He conveyed to her Pakistan's desire to resolve all issues through dialogue.

Tensions flared up between India and Pakistan after a suicide bomber of Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) killed 40 CRPF personnel in Kashmir's Pulwama district on February 14.

Amid mounting outrage, the Indian Air Force (IAF) carried out a counter-terror operation, hitting the biggest JeM training camp in Balakot, deep inside

Pakistan on February 26. The next day, Pakistan Air Force retaliated and downed a MiG-21 in aerial combat and captured an IAF pilot, who was handed over to India.&nbsp;

Pakistan is ready to hold talks with the new Indian government to resolve all outstanding issues, Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi has said. Addressing an Iftar dinner in Multan on Saturday, Qureshi said both India and Pakistan should sit on negotiation table to solve issues for the sake ofprosperity and peace of the region, state-run Radio Pakistan reported.

Pakistan is ready to hold talks with the new Indian government to resolve all outstanding issues, Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi has said. Addressing an Iftar dinner in Multan on Saturday, Qureshi said both India and Pakistan should sit on negotiation table to solve issues for the sake ofprosperity and peace of the region, state-run Radio Pakistan reported. His remarks came two days after Prime Minister Narendra Modi Thursday led his Bharatiya Janata Party towards a super-sized victory for a second term in office. Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Thursday congratulated Modi on his electoral triumph and expressed a desire to work with him for peace and prosperity in the region. "I congratulate Prime Minister Modi on the electoral victory of BJP and allies. Look forward to working with him for peace, progress and prosperity in South Asia," Khan tweeted in both English and Urdu. In April, Khan said he believed there may be a better chance of peace talks with India and settle the Kashmir issue if Modi's party wins the general elections. The results of India's general elections are very significant for Pakistan as the new government in New Delhi will determine the course of Indo-Pakistan ties, which were pushed to a new low after the Pulwama terror attack. Just a day before the announcement of results, Qureshi and his Indian counterpart Sushma Swaraj on Wednesday exchanged pleasantries on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Council of Foreign Ministers' meeting in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan. He conveyed to her Pakistan's desire to resolve all issues through dialogue. Tensions flared up between India and Pakistan after a suicide bomber of Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) killed 40 CRPF personnel in Kashmir's Pulwama district on February 14. Amid mounting outrage, the Indian Air Force (IAF) carried out a counter-terror operation, hitting the biggest JeM training camp in Balakot, deep inside Pakistan on February 26. The next day, Pakistan Air Force retaliated and downed a MiG-21 in aerial combat and captured an IAF pilot, who was handed over to India.

Pakistan ready to hold talks with new Indian government: Shah Mahmood Qureshi

Six militants have been arrested for allegedly collecting funds for terror outfits Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and Lashkar-e-Jhangvi (LeJ) in Punjab province, as Pakistani security forces have launched a crackdown on terror financing after mounting pressure from the global community.

The Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) of Punjab government arrested the six members of the proscribed organisations from various parts of the province for collecting funds for financing terrorism, CTD spokesman said in a statement.

The CTD said those arrested were collecting funds for terror financing for their proscribed organisations - JeM and LeJ. No member of any proscribed organisation wil allowed to collect funds for financing terrorism and extremism under the law of land,? the CTD said in a statement.

Cases have been registered against the suspects under anti-terrorism law for committing offences of terrorism financing.

Muhammad Zahid and Irfan Ahmad of JeM were arrested from Gujranwala, and Zafar Iqbal of JeM from Rawalpindi. Similarly, Muhammad Hanzala and Hamza of LeJ were arrested from Lahore while Ijaz Ahmad of the same banned organisation from Multan.&nbsp;

Paris-based international terror financing watchdog FATF in June last year placed Pakistan onto its watch list in a bid to push the country to halt support for militant groups.

In February, the FATF decided to continue the 'Grey' listing of Pakistan for its failure to stop funding of terrorist groups such as the JeM, the Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and the JuD.

The Pakistan government have arrested over 100 members of banned outfits including JeM chief Masood Azhar's son and brother and also taken control of JeM, JuD and FIF's properties including seminaries and mosques across the country.

The crackdown came amid tensions with India following a suicide attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama district on February 14 by the JeM that killed 40 CRPF soldiers.

The Pakistan government has termed the action in accordance with the National Action Plan and meeting the obligations of the FATF.

Six militants have been arrested for allegedly collecting funds for terror outfits Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and Lashkar-e-Jhangvi (LeJ) in Punjab province, as Pakistani security forces have launched a crackdown on terror financing after mounting pressure from the global community.

Six militants have been arrested for allegedly collecting funds for terror outfits Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and Lashkar-e-Jhangvi (LeJ) in Punjab province, as Pakistani security forces have launched a crackdown on terror financing after mounting pressure from the global community. The Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) of Punjab government arrested the six members of the proscribed organisations from various parts of the province for collecting funds for financing terrorism, CTD spokesman said in a statement. The CTD said those arrested were collecting funds for terror financing for their proscribed organisations - JeM and LeJ. No member of any proscribed organisation wil allowed to collect funds for financing terrorism and extremism under the law of land,? the CTD said in a statement. Cases have been registered against the suspects under anti-terrorism law for committing offences of terrorism financing. Muhammad Zahid and Irfan Ahmad of JeM were arrested from Gujranwala, and Zafar Iqbal of JeM from Rawalpindi. Similarly, Muhammad Hanzala and Hamza of LeJ were arrested from Lahore while Ijaz Ahmad of the same banned organisation from Multan. Paris-based international terror financing watchdog FATF in June last year placed Pakistan onto its watch list in a bid to push the country to halt support for militant groups. In February, the FATF decided to continue the 'Grey' listing of Pakistan for its failure to stop funding of terrorist groups such as the JeM, the Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and the JuD. The Pakistan government have arrested over 100 members of banned outfits including JeM chief Masood Azhar's son and brother and also taken control of JeM, JuD and FIF's properties including seminaries and mosques across the country. The crackdown came amid tensions with India following a suicide attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama district on February 14 by the JeM that killed 40 CRPF soldiers. The Pakistan government has termed the action in accordance with the National Action Plan and meeting the obligations of the FATF.

Pakistan arrests six for collecting funds for Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Jhangvi

The Imran Khan-led Pakistan government is actively considering appointing a National Security Advisor to revive backchannel diplomacy with India to iron out issues hindering the resumption of peace talks between the two nuclear-armed neighbours, official sources said on Sunday.

Since assuming the office in August last year, Prime Minister Imran Khan repeatedly reached out to India for the resumption of peace talks on all outstanding issues.&nbsp;

But India has made it clear to Pakistan that terrorism and dialogue will not go hand-in-hand.

The likely appointment of the NSA is meant for reviving the backchannel diplomacy with India to sort out some of the pressing issues between the two nuclear-armed neighbours, the official sources privy to the development was quoted as saying by the Express Tribune.

A senior official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said that the government was likely to appoint a retired military official as the National Security Advisor (NSA).&nbsp;

He said certain names were under consideration but no final decision has been taken yet.

The relationship between the two neighbouring nations currently is at all-time low after a Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) suicide bomber attacked a CRPF convoy in Pulwama in Jammu and Kashmir on February 14 that killed 40 soldiers.&nbsp;

Amid mounting outrage, the Indian Air Force (IAF) carried out a counter-terror operation, hitting what it said was a JeM training camp in Balakot, deep inside Pakistan on February 26.

The next day, the PAF retaliated and downed a MiG-21 in aerial combat and captured IAF Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman, who was later released and handed over to India on March 1.&nbsp;

Now, with the almost two-month-long election exercise getting over, the Pakistan government is considering options on how to resume talks with India.

Pakistan believes that the new government in India after the general elections would be more receptive to Khan's offer of peace talks.

When asked about the prospects of resumption of talks given the current hostilities, the official said Pakistan was optimistic.&nbsp;

The reason for this optimism stems from the fact that new government, whether it is formed by the ruling BJP or the Congress, is unlikely to follow the pre-election rhetoric, he said.

One of the options includes the appointment of the NSA to revive the backchannel with India.&nbsp;

In the past, the two countries often used backchannel through the NSAs to prepare ground for any talks.

In 2015, Pakistan's NSA Lt General (retd) Naseer Khan Janjua and his Indian counterpart Ajit Doval were instrumental in breaking the ice.&nbsp;

The two held meetings in Bangkok leading to the agreement between the two foreign ministers for the resumption of the composite dialogue.

The leadership of the two countries used their respective NSAs to communicate on important issues.

Talking to foreign journalists last month, Khan had said that there might be a better chance of peace talks with India if Modi returned to power.

"If the next Indian government is led by the opposition Congress party, it might be too scared to seek a settlement with Pakistan over Indian-occupied Kashmir (IoK), fearing a backlash from the right," the prime minister told a small group of foreign journalists in an interview.

"Perhaps if the BJP a right-wing party wins, some kind of settlement on Kashmir could be reached."

Khan's statement stirred a heated debate both in Pakistan as well as in India, where Modi's opponents mocked him as Pakistan's ally.

In Pakistan, opposition parties criticised Khan for making an 'undiplomatic statement' and also supporting Modi despite his hostile policies.&nbsp;

The Imran Khan-led Pakistan government is actively considering appointing a National Security Advisor to revive backchannel diplomacy with India to iron out issues hindering the resumption of peace talks between the two nuclear-armed neighbours, official sources said on Sunday.

The Imran Khan-led Pakistan government is actively considering appointing a National Security Advisor to revive backchannel diplomacy with India to iron out issues hindering the resumption of peace talks between the two nuclear-armed neighbours, official sources said on Sunday. Since assuming the office in August last year, Prime Minister Imran Khan repeatedly reached out to India for the resumption of peace talks on all outstanding issues. But India has made it clear to Pakistan that terrorism and dialogue will not go hand-in-hand. The likely appointment of the NSA is meant for reviving the backchannel diplomacy with India to sort out some of the pressing issues between the two nuclear-armed neighbours, the official sources privy to the development was quoted as saying by the Express Tribune. A senior official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said that the government was likely to appoint a retired military official as the National Security Advisor (NSA). He said certain names were under consideration but no final decision has been taken yet. The relationship between the two neighbouring nations currently is at all-time low after a Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) suicide bomber attacked a CRPF convoy in Pulwama in Jammu and Kashmir on February 14 that killed 40 soldiers. Amid mounting outrage, the Indian Air Force (IAF) carried out a counter-terror operation, hitting what it said was a JeM training camp in Balakot, deep inside Pakistan on February 26. The next day, the PAF retaliated and downed a MiG-21 in aerial combat and captured IAF Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman, who was later released and handed over to India on March 1. Now, with the almost two-month-long election exercise getting over, the Pakistan government is considering options on how to resume talks with India. Pakistan believes that the new government in India after the general elections would be more receptive to Khan's offer of peace talks. When asked about the prospects of resumption of talks given the current hostilities, the official said Pakistan was optimistic. The reason for this optimism stems from the fact that new government, whether it is formed by the ruling BJP or the Congress, is unlikely to follow the pre-election rhetoric, he said. One of the options includes the appointment of the NSA to revive the backchannel with India. In the past, the two countries often used backchannel through the NSAs to prepare ground for any talks. In 2015, Pakistan's NSA Lt General (retd) Naseer Khan Janjua and his Indian counterpart Ajit Doval were instrumental in breaking the ice. The two held meetings in Bangkok leading to the agreement between the two foreign ministers for the resumption of the composite dialogue. The leadership of the two countries used their respective NSAs to communicate on important issues. Talking to foreign journalists last month, Khan had said that there might be a better chance of peace talks with India if Modi returned to power. "If the next Indian government is led by the opposition Congress party, it might be too scared to seek a settlement with Pakistan over Indian-occupied Kashmir (IoK), fearing a backlash from the right," the prime minister told a small group of foreign journalists in an interview. "Perhaps if the BJP a right-wing party wins, some kind of settlement on Kashmir could be reached." Khan's statement stirred a heated debate both in Pakistan as well as in India, where Modi's opponents mocked him as Pakistan's ally. In Pakistan, opposition parties criticised Khan for making an 'undiplomatic statement' and also supporting Modi despite his hostile policies.

Pakistan considering appointing NSA to resume backchannel diplomacy: Sources

Top Jaish-e-Mohammed commander of Pakistani origin was among the three terrorists killed in an <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jk-three-jem-terrorists-shot-in-pulwama-encounter-soldier-civilian-also-killed-219169">encounter which broke out in Jammu and Kashmir's Dalipora area of Pulwama</a> district on Thursday.&nbsp;

The encounter also claimed the life of one army personnel and a civilian during the exchange of gunfire.

On specific inputs about the presence of terrorists in the area, J&amp;K police along with 55 Rashtriya Rifles unit of the Indian Army and CRPF launched a cordon and search operation in the village.&nbsp;

Army personnel, identified as Sandeep, succumbed to injuries at army's 92 base hospital in Srinagar. Sandeep was part of a team which was close to the encounter spot and was fired upon as they zeroed in on them.

During the operation, two army men and a civilian also received injuries who are now being treated at the hospital.

"As the Police and security forces were evacuating civilians from the neighbourhood area around the target house, the hiding terrorists fired indiscriminately. In the process, one Army soldier Sandeep attained martyrdom and one civilian Rayees Dar also lost his life," J&amp;K police said in a statement.&nbsp;

The killing of Khalid, a top commander of Jaish, is also seen as a major success for the security agencies. Sources in the police say that Khalid was active in Kashmir for few years and was wanted in the 2017 suicide attack on a CRPF camp in Lethpora, Pulwama, that left five paramilitary personnel dead.

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Police identified the other two local terrorists as Naseer Pandith, a resident of Kareemabad in Pulwama and Umar Mir of Shopian and said that the duo was involved in several terror crimes and killing of a policeman on the eve of EID last year.&nbsp;

Intense clashes were also witnessed around the encounter spot and police used tear smoke shells and pellets to disperse the protestors.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, three more terrorists were killed in another encounter between security forces and terrorists in south Kashmir’s Shopian district.&nbsp;

Two bodies have been recovered from the debris while the search for the third is going on.&nbsp;

Sources say all of them belong to Hizb-ul-Mujahideen outfit.

Top Jaish-e-Mohammed commander of Pakistani origin was among the three terrorists killed in an encounter which broke out in Jammu and Kashmir's Dalipora area of Pulwama district on Thursday.

Top Jaish-e-Mohammed commander of Pakistani origin was among the three terrorists killed in an encounter which broke out in Jammu and Kashmir's Dalipora area of Pulwama district on Thursday. The encounter also claimed the life of one army personnel and a civilian during the exchange of gunfire. On specific inputs about the presence of terrorists in the area, J&K police along with 55 Rashtriya Rifles unit of the Indian Army and CRPF launched a cordon and search operation in the village. Army personnel, identified as Sandeep, succumbed to injuries at army's 92 base hospital in Srinagar. Sandeep was part of a team which was close to the encounter spot and was fired upon as they zeroed in on them. During the operation, two army men and a civilian also received injuries who are now being treated at the hospital. "As the Police and security forces were evacuating civilians from the neighbourhood area around the target house, the hiding terrorists fired indiscriminately. In the process, one Army soldier Sandeep attained martyrdom and one civilian Rayees Dar also lost his life," J&K police said in a statement. The killing of Khalid, a top commander of Jaish, is also seen as a major success for the security agencies. Sources in the police say that Khalid was active in Kashmir for few years and was wanted in the 2017 suicide attack on a CRPF camp in Lethpora, Pulwama, that left five paramilitary personnel dead. × Police identified the other two local terrorists as Naseer Pandith, a resident of Kareemabad in Pulwama and Umar Mir of Shopian and said that the duo was involved in several terror crimes and killing of a policeman on the eve of EID last year. Intense clashes were also witnessed around the encounter spot and police used tear smoke shells and pellets to disperse the protestors. Meanwhile, three more terrorists were killed in another encounter between security forces and terrorists in south Kashmir’s Shopian district. Two bodies have been recovered from the debris while the search for the third is going on. Sources say all of them belong to Hizb-ul-Mujahideen outfit.

J&K: Three JeM terrorists shot in Pulwama encounter; soldier, civilian also killed

Pakistan's&nbsp;Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) has banned 11 organisations linked to outlawed organisations, sources&nbsp;at Pakistani Ministry of Interior said.

In continuation to National Action Plan, the Federal government has banned organisations associated with banned groups such as&nbsp;Jamaat ud Dawa, Filah e Insaniyat Foundation and Jaish-e-Mohammed, sources added.

The final decision to ban these organisations was taken by Interior Minister Brigadier (retd) Ijaz Shah as under Anti-Terrorism Act 1997, a decision to ban and place organisations under observation is taken by the Ministry of Interior.

According to sources, CTD Lahore and CTD Karachi observed these organisations, following which it recommended their ban.&nbsp;

Following are the 11 organisations:-

<ol>
	<li>Al Anfal Trust</li>
	<li>Idara-e-Khidmat-e-Khalq</li>
	<li>Al Dawat ul Irshaad</li>
	<li>Al Fazal foundation and trust</li>
	<li>Mosc and Welfare trust</li>
	<li>Al Madina Foundation</li>
	<li>Moaz bin Jabl education trust</li>
	<li>Al Esaar Foundation</li>
	<li>Al Rahmat Trust organization</li>
	<li>Al Hamad Trust</li>
	<li>Al Furqan Trust</li>
</ol>

Pakistan's Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) has banned 11 organisations linked to outlawed organisations, sources at Pakistani Ministry of Interior said. In continuation to National Action Plan, the Federal government has banned organisations associated with banned groups such as Jamaat ud Dawa, Filah e Insaniyat Foundation and Jaish-e-Mohammed, sources added.

Pakistan's Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) has banned 11 organisations linked to outlawed organisations, sources at Pakistani Ministry of Interior said. In continuation to National Action Plan, the Federal government has banned organisations associated with banned groups such as Jamaat ud Dawa, Filah e Insaniyat Foundation and Jaish-e-Mohammed, sources added. The final decision to ban these organisations was taken by Interior Minister Brigadier (retd) Ijaz Shah as under Anti-Terrorism Act 1997, a decision to ban and place organisations under observation is taken by the Ministry of Interior. According to sources, CTD Lahore and CTD Karachi observed these organisations, following which it recommended their ban. Following are the 11 organisations:- Al Anfal Trust Idara-e-Khidmat-e-Khalq Al Dawat ul Irshaad Al Fazal foundation and trust Mosc and Welfare trust Al Madina Foundation Moaz bin Jabl education trust Al Esaar Foundation Al Rahmat Trust organization Al Hamad Trust Al Furqan Trust

Pakistan counter-terrorism department bans 11 organisations linked to outlawed groups

Just days after Pakistan said it was willing to take Indian journalists to the site of the Balakot air strike, a new report has pegged the number of Jaish-e-Mohammed members killed at between 130 and 170. Italian journalist and author Francesca Marino, in a piece published in StringerAsia, said the strike carried out by India in the wee hours of February 26 “immediately killed a large number of JeM cadres.”

WION Exclusive: Watch exclusive talk of WION with Journalist 'Francesca Marino' directly from Rome

Pakistan's interior ministry has asked the provincial governments to ensure that the ban on outlawed groups, including Jaish-e-Mohammed, LeT and Jamaat-ud-Dawa, from collecting donations was strictly enforced during the month of Ramazan, a media report said Sunday.

The ministry issued instructions to the provinces on Saturday to keep banned and under-observation organisations under strict surveillance, the Express Tribune reported.

The provincial governments have started monitoring these outfits, it said.

Citing sources, the paper said that the ministry directed the provincial governments to ensure that the ban on outlawed outfits from collecting Zakat, alms or donations was strictly enforced during the month of Ramazan.

The provincial governments have been instructed to inform the public that under the Anti-terrorism Act 1997 and UN Security Council Act 1948, banned organisations could not be provided with any support or financial assistance as it was a crime punishable by imprisonment between five and 10 years and fine, the paper said.

According to reports, people in Pakistan donate up to $4.5 billion annually, mostly in the Muslim holy month of Ramazan, to help the poor and needy in the name of charity.&nbsp;

The government often claims that it is cracking down on banned groups, but many continue to raise money and collect Zakat or donations.

Last year, the authorities announced a programme to prevent banned militant groups from getting hands on billions of rupees in public donations and charities.

The dozens of banned groups include Jaish-e-Mohammed, Lashkar-e-Taiba, Sipah-e-Sahaba Pakistan, al-Qaeda, Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan, East Turkmenistan Islamic Movement, Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan, ISIS, Lashkar-e-Jhangvi, Jamaat-ud-Dawa, Falah-e-Insaniyat Foundation and Pak-Turk international CAJ Education Foundation.&nbsp;

According to the ministry, the government has taken 589 madrassas, schools, dispensaries, hospitals and ambulances belonging to banned groups into its custody.&nbsp;

Pakistan's interior ministry has asked the provincial governments to ensure that the ban on outlawed groups, including Jaish-e-Mohammed, LeT and Jamaat-ud-Dawa, from collecting donations was strictly enforced during the month of Ramazan, a media report said Sunday.

Pakistan's interior ministry has asked the provincial governments to ensure that the ban on outlawed groups, including Jaish-e-Mohammed, LeT and Jamaat-ud-Dawa, from collecting donations was strictly enforced during the month of Ramazan, a media report said Sunday. The ministry issued instructions to the provinces on Saturday to keep banned and under-observation organisations under strict surveillance, the Express Tribune reported. The provincial governments have started monitoring these outfits, it said. Citing sources, the paper said that the ministry directed the provincial governments to ensure that the ban on outlawed outfits from collecting Zakat, alms or donations was strictly enforced during the month of Ramazan. The provincial governments have been instructed to inform the public that under the Anti-terrorism Act 1997 and UN Security Council Act 1948, banned organisations could not be provided with any support or financial assistance as it was a crime punishable by imprisonment between five and 10 years and fine, the paper said. According to reports, people in Pakistan donate up to $4.5 billion annually, mostly in the Muslim holy month of Ramazan, to help the poor and needy in the name of charity. The government often claims that it is cracking down on banned groups, but many continue to raise money and collect Zakat or donations. Last year, the authorities announced a programme to prevent banned militant groups from getting hands on billions of rupees in public donations and charities. The dozens of banned groups include Jaish-e-Mohammed, Lashkar-e-Taiba, Sipah-e-Sahaba Pakistan, al-Qaeda, Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan, East Turkmenistan Islamic Movement, Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan, ISIS, Lashkar-e-Jhangvi, Jamaat-ud-Dawa, Falah-e-Insaniyat Foundation and Pak-Turk international CAJ Education Foundation. According to the ministry, the government has taken 589 madrassas, schools, dispensaries, hospitals and ambulances belonging to banned groups into its custody.

Keep banned groups in check during Ramazan: Pakistan interior ministry to provinces

A 35-year-old Pakistani-American national has been arrested by the FBI on his arrival from Pakistan for being in contact with two UN-proscribed terror groups the Islamic State and JeM.

Waqar Ul-Hassan, a naturalised US citizen who moved to America at the age of 15, was arrested at the Charlotte Douglas International Airport in North Carolina on Tuesday.

Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) chief Masood Azhar was designated as a global terrorist by the UN on May 1.

Hassan was arrested on two counts of making false statements in 2015 about his contacts with terrorist groups.

If convicted, he faces up to eight years of imprisonment.

According to court documents, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) in 2014 received information that he was in contact with terrorist organisations.

During an interview with the FBI, he denied having any contacts with the terrorist groups or helping them.

Later in November 2015, Hassan during another interview with the FBI admitted that he had lied and was in contact with two terrorist groups -- the Islamic State and JeM.

He acknowledged being untruthful in previous FBI interviews regarding his knowledge of persons associated with foreign terrorist organisations.

The FBI said Hassan admitted to extensive contacts with a JeM recruiter, who he identified by name. He also admitted to exchanging phone numbers with the recruiter and having several conversations about extremism with him.

Hassan further admitted he travelled to - and stayed with - JeM extremists for two or three days in 2014, travelled in Pakistan in 2013 and 2014 to collect money and food for JeM extremists and passed out recruiting newspapers for JeM in Pakistan in 2014, the FBI said.

Hassan admitted that he had not been truthful because he knew JeM was a terrorist group.

"Between 2013 and 2014 I travelled... around&nbsp;Gujrat (in Pakistan) and surrounding area collecting money and food for Jaish Mujahideen two or three times. In 2014, while staying with Jaish Mujahideen they told me about an attack on Indian soldier they conducted the previous year. They showed me a news video of the attack," Hassan said in a written statement to the FBI, according to court documents.

"I also past out a newspaper that Jaish Mujahideen uses to recruit people and collect money. I lied because I was scared of getting in trouble because I participated in collecting money, food and passing out the newspaper for Jaish Mujahadin which is a terrorist group but they also help the poor in Pakistan," he said.

Hassan was born on February 10, 1984, in Uttam Gujrat, Pakistan. He moved with his family to Brooklyn, New York in 1999 at the age of fifteen. He became a naturalised United States citizen in 2002 but retained citizenship in Pakistan.

Hassan told investigators that he was in contact with IS as well.

The complaint said because he was angry about what was happening to Muslims around the world, he was serious about sending $175 to Jihadists in Syria.

Hassan said that he did not send the money because he did not have a way to get the money there.&nbsp;

A 35-year-old Pakistani-American national has been arrested by the FBI on his arrival from Pakistan for being in contact with two UN-proscribed terror groups the Islamic State and JeM.

A 35-year-old Pakistani-American national has been arrested by the FBI on his arrival from Pakistan for being in contact with two UN-proscribed terror groups the Islamic State and JeM. Waqar Ul-Hassan, a naturalised US citizen who moved to America at the age of 15, was arrested at the Charlotte Douglas International Airport in North Carolina on Tuesday. Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) chief Masood Azhar was designated as a global terrorist by the UN on May 1. Hassan was arrested on two counts of making false statements in 2015 about his contacts with terrorist groups. If convicted, he faces up to eight years of imprisonment. According to court documents, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) in 2014 received information that he was in contact with terrorist organisations. During an interview with the FBI, he denied having any contacts with the terrorist groups or helping them. Later in November 2015, Hassan during another interview with the FBI admitted that he had lied and was in contact with two terrorist groups -- the Islamic State and JeM. He acknowledged being untruthful in previous FBI interviews regarding his knowledge of persons associated with foreign terrorist organisations. The FBI said Hassan admitted to extensive contacts with a JeM recruiter, who he identified by name. He also admitted to exchanging phone numbers with the recruiter and having several conversations about extremism with him. Hassan further admitted he travelled to - and stayed with - JeM extremists for two or three days in 2014, travelled in Pakistan in 2013 and 2014 to collect money and food for JeM extremists and passed out recruiting newspapers for JeM in Pakistan in 2014, the FBI said. Hassan admitted that he had not been truthful because he knew JeM was a terrorist group. "Between 2013 and 2014 I travelled... around Gujrat (in Pakistan) and surrounding area collecting money and food for Jaish Mujahideen two or three times. In 2014, while staying with Jaish Mujahideen they told me about an attack on Indian soldier they conducted the previous year. They showed me a news video of the attack," Hassan said in a written statement to the FBI, according to court documents. "I also past out a newspaper that Jaish Mujahideen uses to recruit people and collect money. I lied because I was scared of getting in trouble because I participated in collecting money, food and passing out the newspaper for Jaish Mujahadin which is a terrorist group but they also help the poor in Pakistan," he said. Hassan was born on February 10, 1984, in Uttam Gujrat, Pakistan. He moved with his family to Brooklyn, New York in 1999 at the age of fifteen. He became a naturalised United States citizen in 2002 but retained citizenship in Pakistan. Hassan told investigators that he was in contact with IS as well. The complaint said because he was angry about what was happening to Muslims around the world, he was serious about sending $175 to Jihadists in Syria. Hassan said that he did not send the money because he did not have a way to get the money there.

FBI arrests Pakistani-American at airport for links to JeM, Islamic State

Strangely Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) chief Masood Azhar’s long-awaited designation as an international terrorist by the UN Security Council (UNSC) on May 1 evoked celebration on both sides of the border, in India and in Pakistan.

The Indian side had much to celebrate the naming and shaming of Masood &nbsp;Azhar, long a thorn in its side. Azhar founded the JeM in 2000 post his release from an Indian prison in exchange for the passengers held hostage after the much-publicised hijacking of Indian Airlines Flight 814 at the end of December 1999.

Azhar and his JeM are known to have not only perpetrated the dastardly Pulwama car bomb attack on February 14 &nbsp;which killed 40 CRPF personnel but also the attack on the Pathankot Air Force Station in January 2016 and on Indian Parliament in December 2001, among many others. JeM was already designated as a terrorist organisation by various countries including Pakistan itself, UK, US and the UN but attempts in the UNSC to proscribe its leader Masood Azhar failed four times over the last ten years due to the intransigence of China which placed obstacles in the way.

After the Pulwama attack as pressure built up, France and UK joined by the US re-initiated the process on March 13 to label Masood Azhar an international terrorist. However, the process came a cropper in the face of China’s demands to put it on hold pending more information. Under much diplomatic pressure from India and the US, China finally gave its assent which led to the action by the UNSC on May 1. The only slightly awkward thing in it is the absence of any specific mention of the Pulwama carnage and the hand of Azhar behind it. It has given scope to Pakistan to stamp India’s diplomatic victory as a pyrrhic one.&nbsp;

So what is there for Pakistan to celebrate? The sheer idiocy of that nation, its leadership, people and a hugely controlled media became evident when they collectively perceived that the absence of the mention of the Pulwama attack or any specific reference to Azhar’s involvement in Kashmir was a great diplomatic victory for Pakistan.&nbsp;

The spin, for which Pakistan is well known, also attempts to whitewash its entire sponsorship of the proxy war in J&amp;K with perceived certification from the UNSC. The world reads sufficiently between the lines and realises that it was perhaps at China’s insistence that Pulwama and the JeM chief’s personal involvement in Kashmir were omitted from the draft resolution. That is as far as China could be convinced to go even in the light of pressure brought on by trade issues with the US, the spirit of the Wuhan dialogue and the overall emerging strategic environment around South West Asia. Pakistan’s lack of subtlety is reflected by ignorance of the context of the proscription which stares in the face. The world is aware that the process of the UNSC commenced this time, with Pulwama and the final proscription was a progression of events commencing with the February 2019 condemnation by the UNSC. UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres had then reiterated his strong condemnation of the Pulwama attack. It will only be with wishful thinking that Pakistan will not perceive the effect of this proscription on the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) proceedings, which could certify insufficiency of efforts by Pakistan to curb terror activities from its soil.&nbsp;

Even with cause for celebration in India, most people appeared to overestimate and misread the effect of the UNSC action. I had queries inquiring how soon this would affect JeM’s capability in Kashmir, especially in light of recent achievements of the Army against JeM cadres. What we need to understand is that Azhar’s proscription is not the last act to marginalise him and the JeM; it’s just about the beginning. Lashkar e Taiyaba (LeT) leader Hafiz Sayeed’s similar proscription and placement of a $10 million bounty on his head had little effect on LeT capability and intent on the ground.&nbsp;

The foreign terrorist (FT) group structures are today much reliant on the separatist networks due to extensive army control over infiltration. The army and police must work towards prevention of the creation of alternative leadership and induction of fresh local cadres, to keep the initiative.

Virtually in anticipation of the UNSC decision, Pakistan ISPR chief Maj Gen Asif Ghafoor conducted a long presser two days prior. He went hammer and tongs after the Pashtoon Tahafuz Movement (PTM) to balance the effect of the UNSC proceedings, accusing PTM of sponsorship from India and Afghanistan. He then warned India that Pakistan was not the same country which succumbed in 1971 and continued to deny the impact of Balakot attack.

This is a new normal with Pakistan’s deep state which must be read in conjunction with its celebration of the proscription of Masood Azhar by the UNSC. It strongly believes that with each climb of a rung on the military escalatory ladder India only proves that in the threshold below conventional war Pakistan can match it action for action; even in the conventional fold, it has enough in its nuclear arsenal to deter or dissuade Indian adventurism. Given this belief and the idea that Azhar’s proscription is not linked to Kashmir, the Pakistani deep state could feel encouraged to continue with acts of proxy war.&nbsp;

Should India, therefore, brace itself for more terror against itself? What the next government will need to do is to continue playing aggressively in the diplomatic field. Pakistan is financially on the back foot. The pressure at the FATF, with the big powers and engagement with China in the Wuhan spirit, may discourage Pakistan’s deep state from attempting to do something spectacular early in the tenure of the next government.&nbsp;

(This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-masood-azhar-s-proscription-2745709">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

Strangely Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) chief Masood Azhar’s long-awaited designation as an international terrorist by the UN Security Council (UNSC) on May 1 evoked celebration on both sides of the border, in India and in Pakistan.

Strangely Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) chief Masood Azhar’s long-awaited designation as an international terrorist by the UN Security Council (UNSC) on May 1 evoked celebration on both sides of the border, in India and in Pakistan. The Indian side had much to celebrate the naming and shaming of Masood Azhar, long a thorn in its side. Azhar founded the JeM in 2000 post his release from an Indian prison in exchange for the passengers held hostage after the much-publicised hijacking of Indian Airlines Flight 814 at the end of December 1999. Azhar and his JeM are known to have not only perpetrated the dastardly Pulwama car bomb attack on February 14 which killed 40 CRPF personnel but also the attack on the Pathankot Air Force Station in January 2016 and on Indian Parliament in December 2001, among many others. JeM was already designated as a terrorist organisation by various countries including Pakistan itself, UK, US and the UN but attempts in the UNSC to proscribe its leader Masood Azhar failed four times over the last ten years due to the intransigence of China which placed obstacles in the way. After the Pulwama attack as pressure built up, France and UK joined by the US re-initiated the process on March 13 to label Masood Azhar an international terrorist. However, the process came a cropper in the face of China’s demands to put it on hold pending more information. Under much diplomatic pressure from India and the US, China finally gave its assent which led to the action by the UNSC on May 1. The only slightly awkward thing in it is the absence of any specific mention of the Pulwama carnage and the hand of Azhar behind it. It has given scope to Pakistan to stamp India’s diplomatic victory as a pyrrhic one. So what is there for Pakistan to celebrate? The sheer idiocy of that nation, its leadership, people and a hugely controlled media became evident when they collectively perceived that the absence of the mention of the Pulwama attack or any specific reference to Azhar’s involvement in Kashmir was a great diplomatic victory for Pakistan. The spin, for which Pakistan is well known, also attempts to whitewash its entire sponsorship of the proxy war in J&K with perceived certification from the UNSC. The world reads sufficiently between the lines and realises that it was perhaps at China’s insistence that Pulwama and the JeM chief’s personal involvement in Kashmir were omitted from the draft resolution. That is as far as China could be convinced to go even in the light of pressure brought on by trade issues with the US, the spirit of the Wuhan dialogue and the overall emerging strategic environment around South West Asia. Pakistan’s lack of subtlety is reflected by ignorance of the context of the proscription which stares in the face. The world is aware that the process of the UNSC commenced this time, with Pulwama and the final proscription was a progression of events commencing with the February 2019 condemnation by the UNSC. UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres had then reiterated his strong condemnation of the Pulwama attack. It will only be with wishful thinking that Pakistan will not perceive the effect of this proscription on the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) proceedings, which could certify insufficiency of efforts by Pakistan to curb terror activities from its soil. Even with cause for celebration in India, most people appeared to overestimate and misread the effect of the UNSC action. I had queries inquiring how soon this would affect JeM’s capability in Kashmir, especially in light of recent achievements of the Army against JeM cadres. What we need to understand is that Azhar’s proscription is not the last act to marginalise him and the JeM; it’s just about the beginning. Lashkar e Taiyaba (LeT) leader Hafiz Sayeed’s similar proscription and placement of a $10 million bounty on his head had little effect on LeT capability and intent on the ground. The foreign terrorist (FT) group structures are today much reliant on the separatist networks due to extensive army control over infiltration. The army and police must work towards prevention of the creation of alternative leadership and induction of fresh local cadres, to keep the initiative. Virtually in anticipation of the UNSC decision, Pakistan ISPR chief Maj Gen Asif Ghafoor conducted a long presser two days prior. He went hammer and tongs after the Pashtoon Tahafuz Movement (PTM) to balance the effect of the UNSC proceedings, accusing PTM of sponsorship from India and Afghanistan. He then warned India that Pakistan was not the same country which succumbed in 1971 and continued to deny the impact of Balakot attack. This is a new normal with Pakistan’s deep state which must be read in conjunction with its celebration of the proscription of Masood Azhar by the UNSC. It strongly believes that with each climb of a rung on the military escalatory ladder India only proves that in the threshold below conventional war Pakistan can match it action for action; even in the conventional fold, it has enough in its nuclear arsenal to deter or dissuade Indian adventurism. Given this belief and the idea that Azhar’s proscription is not linked to Kashmir, the Pakistani deep state could feel encouraged to continue with acts of proxy war. Should India, therefore, brace itself for more terror against itself? What the next government will need to do is to continue playing aggressively in the diplomatic field. Pakistan is financially on the back foot. The pressure at the FATF, with the big powers and engagement with China in the Wuhan spirit, may discourage Pakistan’s deep state from attempting to do something spectacular early in the tenure of the next government. (This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

Masood Azhar’s proscription

Pakistan has issued an official order to freeze the assets and impose a travel ban on Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhar after the United Nations declared him a "global terrorist".

In a notification issued Wednesday, the foreign ministry said, "the Federal Government is pleased to order that the Resolution 2368 (2017) be fully implemented" against Azhar.

The government directed officials to take actions "as appropriate for the implementation of sanctions" against the JeM chief, according to the notification. 
Azhar is also banned from selling or purchasing arms and ammunition.

In a major diplomatic win for India, the United Nations designated Pakistan-based Azhar as a "global terrorist" after China lifted its hold on a proposal by the US, the UK and France to blacklist him.

The US, the UK and France had moved the proposal to designate Azhar as a "global terrorist" in the UN Security Council's 1267 Al Qaeda Sanctions Committee in February, just days after the deadly Pulwama terror attack carried out by the JeM in Jammu and Kashmir.

Pakistan foreign office spokesman Mohammad Faisal on Wednesday said that Pakistan would "immediately enforce the sanctions" imposed on Azhar.&nbsp;

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&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Pakistan has issued an official order to freeze the assets and impose a travel ban on Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhar after the United Nations declared him a "global terrorist".

Pakistan has issued an official order to freeze the assets and impose a travel ban on Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhar after the United Nations declared him a "global terrorist". In a notification issued Wednesday, the foreign ministry said, "the Federal Government is pleased to order that the Resolution 2368 (2017) be fully implemented" against Azhar. The government directed officials to take actions "as appropriate for the implementation of sanctions" against the JeM chief, according to the notification. Azhar is also banned from selling or purchasing arms and ammunition. In a major diplomatic win for India, the United Nations designated Pakistan-based Azhar as a "global terrorist" after China lifted its hold on a proposal by the US, the UK and France to blacklist him. The US, the UK and France had moved the proposal to designate Azhar as a "global terrorist" in the UN Security Council's 1267 Al Qaeda Sanctions Committee in February, just days after the deadly Pulwama terror attack carried out by the JeM in Jammu and Kashmir. Pakistan foreign office spokesman Mohammad Faisal on Wednesday said that Pakistan would "immediately enforce the sanctions" imposed on Azhar. ×

Pakistan issues orders to freeze Masood Azhar's assets, imposes travel ban

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-10-years-china-has-done-the-right-thing-white-house-official-on-un-listing-masood-azhar-as-global-terrorist-215194">After 10 years, China has done the right thing: White House official on UN listing Masood Azhar as global terrorist</a>

The UN declaring Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhar a global terrorist demonstrates an international commitment to rooting out terrorism in Pakistan and bringing security and stability to South Asia, the Trump administration said Wednesday, expressing hope that Islamabad will take sustained and irreversible action against terror groups operating from its soil.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uks-may-sacks-defence-minister-williamson-over-huawei-leak-215201">UK PM Theresa May sacks defence minister Williamson over Huawei leak</a>

British Prime Minister Theresa May on Wednesday sacked Defence Secretary Gavin Williamson following a probe into the leak of news that Britain had conditionally allowed China's Huawei to develop its 5G network.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-attorney-general-william-barr-refuses-to-testify-before-house-judiciary-committee-on-mueller-report-215205">US Attorney General William Barr refuses to testify before House Judiciary Committee on Mueller report</a>

US Attorney General Bill Barr rejected allegations in a Senate hearing Wednesday that he had whitewashed the Mueller Russian interference report to protect President Donald Trump, but then refused to appear before the House to answer similar questions.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-signs-bill-to-steer-russian-net-traffic-away-from-foreign-servers-215193">Putin signs bill to steer Russian net traffic away from foreign servers</a>

President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday signed into law a "sovereign internet" bill which will allow Russian authorities to isolate the country's internet, a move decried by rights groups.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/clashes-break-out-at-venezuela-may-day-protest-215199">Clashes break out at Venezuela May Day protest</a>

Clashes broke out between opposition supporters and Venezuela's armed forces in the capital Caracas on Wednesday during May Day protests with opposition leader Juan Guaido attempting to rally demonstrators against President Nicolas Maduro.

After 10 years, China has done the right thing: White House official on UN listing Masood Azhar as global terrorist The UN declaring Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhar a global terrorist demonstrates an international commitment to rooting out terrorism in Pakistan and bringing security and stability to South Asia, the Trump administration said Wednesday, expressing hope that Islamabad will take sustained and irreversible action against terror groups operating from its soil.

After 10 years, China has done the right thing: White House official on UN listing Masood Azhar as global terrorist The UN declaring Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhar a global terrorist demonstrates an international commitment to rooting out terrorism in Pakistan and bringing security and stability to South Asia, the Trump administration said Wednesday, expressing hope that Islamabad will take sustained and irreversible action against terror groups operating from its soil. UK PM Theresa May sacks defence minister Williamson over Huawei leak British Prime Minister Theresa May on Wednesday sacked Defence Secretary Gavin Williamson following a probe into the leak of news that Britain had conditionally allowed China's Huawei to develop its 5G network. US Attorney General William Barr refuses to testify before House Judiciary Committee on Mueller report US Attorney General Bill Barr rejected allegations in a Senate hearing Wednesday that he had whitewashed the Mueller Russian interference report to protect President Donald Trump, but then refused to appear before the House to answer similar questions. Putin signs bill to steer Russian net traffic away from foreign servers President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday signed into law a "sovereign internet" bill which will allow Russian authorities to isolate the country's internet, a move decried by rights groups. Clashes break out at Venezuela May Day protest Clashes broke out between opposition supporters and Venezuela's armed forces in the capital Caracas on Wednesday during May Day protests with opposition leader Juan Guaido attempting to rally demonstrators against President Nicolas Maduro.

News brief: Big stories of the day

The UN declaring Jaish-e-Mohammed chief<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/masood-azhar-named-global-terrorist-how-it-will-affect-the-jem-chief-215077"> </a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/pakistan/jem-chief-masood-azhar-designated-as-a-global-terrorist-in-un-sanctions-list-215076">Masood Azhar a global terrorist</a> demonstrates an international commitment to rooting out terrorism in Pakistan and bringing security and stability to South Asia, the Trump administration said Wednesday, expressing hope that Islamabad will take sustained and irreversible action against terror groups operating from its soil.

Welcoming <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/found-no-objection-to-list-azhar-after-studying-revised-materials-china-215122">China's decision to lift its hold on the proposal</a> to blacklist the Pakistan-based JeM chief, a senior Trump administration official during a conference call with reporters said after 10 years China has done the right thing by lifting its blockade.

"I think China seems to have understood that it was increasingly important that its actions on the international stage on terrorism matched its rhetoric," the White House official said on the condition of anonymity.

Pulwama attack, the official noted was just the latest in the terrorist attacks that this "deadly group"&nbsp;has conducted.

"Designating Azhar demonstrates an international commitment to rooting out terrorism in Pakistan and bringing security and stability to South Asia," the official said, adding that this designation is critically important and it was a long time coming.

This designation, the official said, is in line with Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan's stated commitment to crack down on militancy inside Pakistan and his acknowledgement that prosperity and development in Pakistan are contingent on maintaining regional stability.

"So we acknowledged that this designation is a good step forward and we look forward to how Pakistan would use this international designation press forward on its own stated commitment,"&nbsp;the official said.

"The US will continue to monitor the situation in Pakistan to determine whether the recent positive statements from the prime minister will translate into irreversible steps"&nbsp;to end terrorist and militant safe haven inside Pakistan," the official said.

"All too often the world has seen a familiar pattern of Pakistan taking temporary steps against militants following immediately terrorist attacks, only to reverse those positive steps a few months later when the heat is off," the official said, adding that the history of the effort behind this listing demonstrates Pakistan has in the past been reluctant to divorce itself from terrorist proxy groups.

"China's willingness to shield Pakistan in these policies has been unhelpful to establishing regional stability. China acting on behalf of Pakistan has prevented the designation of Azhar on multiple occasions over the last decade,"&nbsp;the senior administration official alleged.

The official noted that this listing that will help to "avoid a re-escalation"&nbsp;of India-Pak tension, by holding Pakistan accountable on its international obligations.

"This designation serves as a forcing function for Pakistan, to implement their stated commitments to peace and stability and to rooting out terrorism from Pakistani soil."

"We have seen Pakistan taking some steps against Jaish-e-Mohammed following the Pulwama attack. However, there are additional steps that Pakistan could take to show an irreversible commitment and to permanently put these kinds of groups out of business,"&nbsp;the official said.

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Lashkar-e-Taiba and Haqqani networks are the other two groups among others, the official said.

"These steps could include things like arresting leaders and disrupting their ability to communicate and travel and shutting down affiliated businesses like their charity wings," the US official demanded.

"We remain hopeful that Pakistan will continue to move in this direction and that today's designation will assist in that effort,"&nbsp;said the senior administration official.

Responding to questions, the two senior officials who briefed reporters did not give any insight into why reference to Pulwama attack was taken off from the final resolution.

The officials said they would not go into the internal deliberations at the UN Security Council.

"China probably came to the conclusion that it needed to do the right thing, be on the right side. And that it can no longer afford for the sake of its international reputation to continue blocking what it was so obvious that down this was a deadly group and that leader is responsible for these deadly attacks,"&nbsp;the official said.

"China came to realise that it should match its action on international terrorism. This was the culmination of a 10 years process," the official said.&nbsp;

The UN declaring Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhar a global terrorist demonstrates an international commitment to rooting out terrorism in Pakistan and bringing security and stability to South Asia, the Trump administration said Wednesday, expressing hope that Islamabad will take sustained and irreversible action against terror groups operating from its soil.

The UN declaring Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhar a global terrorist demonstrates an international commitment to rooting out terrorism in Pakistan and bringing security and stability to South Asia, the Trump administration said Wednesday, expressing hope that Islamabad will take sustained and irreversible action against terror groups operating from its soil. Welcoming China's decision to lift its hold on the proposal to blacklist the Pakistan-based JeM chief, a senior Trump administration official during a conference call with reporters said after 10 years China has done the right thing by lifting its blockade. "I think China seems to have understood that it was increasingly important that its actions on the international stage on terrorism matched its rhetoric," the White House official said on the condition of anonymity. Pulwama attack, the official noted was just the latest in the terrorist attacks that this "deadly group" has conducted. "Designating Azhar demonstrates an international commitment to rooting out terrorism in Pakistan and bringing security and stability to South Asia," the official said, adding that this designation is critically important and it was a long time coming. This designation, the official said, is in line with Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan's stated commitment to crack down on militancy inside Pakistan and his acknowledgement that prosperity and development in Pakistan are contingent on maintaining regional stability. "So we acknowledged that this designation is a good step forward and we look forward to how Pakistan would use this international designation press forward on its own stated commitment," the official said. "The US will continue to monitor the situation in Pakistan to determine whether the recent positive statements from the prime minister will translate into irreversible steps" to end terrorist and militant safe haven inside Pakistan," the official said. "All too often the world has seen a familiar pattern of Pakistan taking temporary steps against militants following immediately terrorist attacks, only to reverse those positive steps a few months later when the heat is off," the official said, adding that the history of the effort behind this listing demonstrates Pakistan has in the past been reluctant to divorce itself from terrorist proxy groups. "China's willingness to shield Pakistan in these policies has been unhelpful to establishing regional stability. China acting on behalf of Pakistan has prevented the designation of Azhar on multiple occasions over the last decade," the senior administration official alleged. The official noted that this listing that will help to "avoid a re-escalation" of India-Pak tension, by holding Pakistan accountable on its international obligations. "This designation serves as a forcing function for Pakistan, to implement their stated commitments to peace and stability and to rooting out terrorism from Pakistani soil." "We have seen Pakistan taking some steps against Jaish-e-Mohammed following the Pulwama attack. However, there are additional steps that Pakistan could take to show an irreversible commitment and to permanently put these kinds of groups out of business," the official said. × Lashkar-e-Taiba and Haqqani networks are the other two groups among others, the official said. "These steps could include things like arresting leaders and disrupting their ability to communicate and travel and shutting down affiliated businesses like their charity wings," the US official demanded. "We remain hopeful that Pakistan will continue to move in this direction and that today's designation will assist in that effort," said the senior administration official. Responding to questions, the two senior officials who briefed reporters did not give any insight into why reference to Pulwama attack was taken off from the final resolution. The officials said they would not go into the internal deliberations at the UN Security Council. "China probably came to the conclusion that it needed to do the right thing, be on the right side. And that it can no longer afford for the sake of its international reputation to continue blocking what it was so obvious that down this was a deadly group and that leader is responsible for these deadly attacks," the official said. "China came to realise that it should match its action on international terrorism. This was the culmination of a 10 years process," the official said.

After 10 years, China has done the right thing: White House official on UN listing Masood Azhar as global terrorist

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has expressed hope that all member states will abide by the decision of the sanctions committee of the world body which imposed an arms embargo, asset freeze and travel ban on Pakistan-based JeM chief <a href="https://www.wionews.com/pakistan/jem-chief-masood-azhar-designated-as-a-global-terrorist-in-un-sanctions-list-215076">Masood Azhar.</a>

The UN sanctions committee on the Islamic State and Al-Qaeda on Wednesday announced the designation of Azhar, leader of Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), over its ties to Al-Qaida.

The JeM has claimed responsibility for the Pulwama suicide attack that killed 40 CRPF soldiers and led to a spike in military tensions between India and Pakistan.

In response to a question on Guterres' reaction, his spokesman said: "This is the work of a well-established mechanism through the Sanctions Committee of the Security Council. It is a big part of the United Nations work in the fight against terrorism".

"It's always good when all member states of the security council agree on something. We would, of course, hope that all member states abide by those decisions," he said.

The United Nations designated Azhar as a "global terrorist" after China lifted its hold on a proposal to blacklist him.

The US, France along with the UK had moved the proposal to designate Azhar as a "global terrorist" in the UN Security Council's 1267 Al-Qaeda Sanctions Committee in February.

A Security Council member said that Germany, Belgium and Poland also co-sponsored the proposal, adding that there has been new unity and these three delegations also supported the proposal to list Azhar.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has expressed hope that all member states will abide by the decision of the sanctions committee of the world body which imposed an arms embargo, asset freeze and travel ban on Pakistan-based JeM chief Masood Azhar.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has expressed hope that all member states will abide by the decision of the sanctions committee of the world body which imposed an arms embargo, asset freeze and travel ban on Pakistan-based JeM chief Masood Azhar. The UN sanctions committee on the Islamic State and Al-Qaeda on Wednesday announced the designation of Azhar, leader of Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), over its ties to Al-Qaida. The JeM has claimed responsibility for the Pulwama suicide attack that killed 40 CRPF soldiers and led to a spike in military tensions between India and Pakistan. In response to a question on Guterres' reaction, his spokesman said: "This is the work of a well-established mechanism through the Sanctions Committee of the Security Council. It is a big part of the United Nations work in the fight against terrorism". "It's always good when all member states of the security council agree on something. We would, of course, hope that all member states abide by those decisions," he said. The United Nations designated Azhar as a "global terrorist" after China lifted its hold on a proposal to blacklist him. The US, France along with the UK had moved the proposal to designate Azhar as a "global terrorist" in the UN Security Council's 1267 Al-Qaeda Sanctions Committee in February. A Security Council member said that Germany, Belgium and Poland also co-sponsored the proposal, adding that there has been new unity and these three delegations also supported the proposal to list Azhar.

All members should abide by UN sanctions committee's decision on Masood Azhar: UN chief Antonio Guterres

Finance Minister Arun Jaitley hailed the listing of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/masood-azhar-listing-rare-bonhomie-as-unsc-president-says-sanctity-preserved-215300">Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhar</a> as a global terrorist by the UN Security Council (UNSC). At the same time, he also attacked the opposition accusing them of not celebrating the major diplomatic win for India.

"The listing of Masood Azhar by UNSC is a big victory for India and its diplomacy. Azhar and his organisation had been trying to target India for decades. Azhar could not be declared an international terrorist thrice in the past due to a technical hold. But India's influence, its diplomatic pressure and recent developments brought together many countries who wanted Azhar to be declared an international terrorist. And China was forced to remove its technical hold," Jaitley said at a press conference in New Delhi on Thursday.

It is a matter of great pride for the country as well as the Narendra Modi government, he added.

Slamming the opposition, Jaitley said, "If India wins, all Indians win, but unfortunately, some friends in opposition feel they may pay a political price if they join the celebration. They had questioned the airstrike on terror strongholds in Balakot and claimed that 'we also carried out an invisible surgical strike'."

India was trying for this for a decade and the opposition demeans the country's victory by calling the listing as insignificant, Jaitley said.

The 1267 Sanctions Committee of the UNSC on Wednesday announced the designation of Azhar, leader of Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), over its ties to Al-Qaeda.

The US, France along with the UK had moved the proposal to designate Azhar as a "global terrorist" in UNSC in February, just days after the deadly Pulwama terror attack.

The JeM has claimed responsibility for the Pulwama attack that killed 40 CRPF soldiers and led to a spike in military tensions between India and Pakistan.

China, a veto-wielding permanent member of the UNSC, was the sole hold-out in the 15-nation body on the bid to blacklist Azhar, blocking attempts by placing a "technical hold" and asking for "more time to examine" the proposal.

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&nbsp;

Finance Minister Arun Jaitley hailed the listing of Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhar as a global terrorist by the UN Security Council (UNSC). At the same time, he also attacked the opposition accusing them of not celebrating the major diplomatic win for India.

Finance Minister Arun Jaitley hailed the listing of Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhar as a global terrorist by the UN Security Council (UNSC). At the same time, he also attacked the opposition accusing them of not celebrating the major diplomatic win for India. "The listing of Masood Azhar by UNSC is a big victory for India and its diplomacy. Azhar and his organisation had been trying to target India for decades. Azhar could not be declared an international terrorist thrice in the past due to a technical hold. But India's influence, its diplomatic pressure and recent developments brought together many countries who wanted Azhar to be declared an international terrorist. And China was forced to remove its technical hold," Jaitley said at a press conference in New Delhi on Thursday. It is a matter of great pride for the country as well as the Narendra Modi government, he added. Slamming the opposition, Jaitley said, "If India wins, all Indians win, but unfortunately, some friends in opposition feel they may pay a political price if they join the celebration. They had questioned the airstrike on terror strongholds in Balakot and claimed that 'we also carried out an invisible surgical strike'." India was trying for this for a decade and the opposition demeans the country's victory by calling the listing as insignificant, Jaitley said. The 1267 Sanctions Committee of the UNSC on Wednesday announced the designation of Azhar, leader of Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), over its ties to Al-Qaeda. The US, France along with the UK had moved the proposal to designate Azhar as a "global terrorist" in UNSC in February, just days after the deadly Pulwama terror attack. The JeM has claimed responsibility for the Pulwama attack that killed 40 CRPF soldiers and led to a spike in military tensions between India and Pakistan. China, a veto-wielding permanent member of the UNSC, was the sole hold-out in the 15-nation body on the bid to blacklist Azhar, blocking attempts by placing a "technical hold" and asking for "more time to examine" the proposal. ×

Opposition not celebrating moment of great pride: Arun Jaitley on Masood Azhar listing

The Ministry of External Affairs on Monday said that that all evidence of terrorist activities of Pakistan-based terror outfit Jaish-e-Mohammed and its leader Masood Azhar have been shared with China.&nbsp;

The MEA stated that the 1267 Sanctions Committee and other UN-authorised bodies will now take a decision on Azhar's listing, adding that "India will continue to pursue all avenues to ensure that terrorist leaders who are involved in heinous attacks on our citizens are brought to justice."&nbsp;

The MEA's response was to a media query on discussions with China on the 1267 listing of JeM leader Masood Azhar during foreign secretary <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/foreign-secretary-vijay-gokhale-visits-china-talks-on-masood-azhar-possible-212484">Vijay Gokhale's recent visit to Beijing</a>.&nbsp;

Gokhale's visit comes even as India and China mark one year since the Wuhan informal summit that took place in April 2018.

Foreign secretary Gokhale also called on the Chinese foreign minister and state councillor Wang Yi.

Meanwhile when asked about if Masood Azhar was raised by India during the talks, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Geng Shuang said, "The common interests of China and India are far greater than the differences between the two sides."

"We hope that the two sides will continue to strengthen coordination and cooperation and maintain the positive momentum of the sound development of bilateral relations. In this regard, China is ready to work with India," he added.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/firmly-oppose-forcing-new-resolution-through-unsc-on-masood-azhar-china-211140">China on Wednesday dismissed reports</a> that it had been served an ultimatum until April 23 by the US, UK and France to lift its "technical hold" on designating Pakistan-based JeM chief Masood Azhar as a global terrorist but claimed that the vexed issue is moving towards settlement.

Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Lu Kang said, "I don't know where you get such information."

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MEA: It's now for the 1267 Sanctions Committee&amp;other authorized bodies of UN to take a decision on listing of Masood Azhar. India will continue to pursue all avenues to ensure that terrorist leaders who are involved in heinous attacks on our citizens are brought to justice. (2/2) <a href="https://t.co/HsQzEMGgiA">https://t.co/HsQzEMGgiA</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1120277138412855298?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 22, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Meanwhile, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/will-not-be-pressured-by-anyone-on-masood-azhar-pakistan-foreign-office-211606">Pakistan will not be "pressured"</a> by anyone on the issue of banning Masood Azhar, a top official here said on Thursday, a day after China dismissed reports that the US, the UK and France have served an ultimatum to Beijing to lift its "technical hold" on designating the JeM chief as a global terrorist by the UN.

Pak's foreign office spokesman Mohammad Faisal said that Pakistan has a clear stance on Azhar.

After the Pulwama attack, a fresh proposal to designate Azhar under the 1267 Al Qaeda Sanctions Committee of the UN Security Council was moved by France, the UK and the US.

However, China blocked the bid by putting a "technical hold" on the proposal. Following this, the US backed by the UK and France moved directly to UN Security Council (UNSC) to blacklist Azhar.

China, a veto-wielding member of the UNSC, had opposed the move, saying the issue should be resolved at the 1267 Committee itself which also functioned under the top UN body.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The Ministry of External Affairs on Monday said that that all evidence of terrorist activities of Pakistan-based terror outfit Jaish-e-Mohammed and its leader Masood Azhar have been shared with China.

The Ministry of External Affairs on Monday said that that all evidence of terrorist activities of Pakistan-based terror outfit Jaish-e-Mohammed and its leader Masood Azhar have been shared with China. The MEA stated that the 1267 Sanctions Committee and other UN-authorised bodies will now take a decision on Azhar's listing, adding that "India will continue to pursue all avenues to ensure that terrorist leaders who are involved in heinous attacks on our citizens are brought to justice." The MEA's response was to a media query on discussions with China on the 1267 listing of JeM leader Masood Azhar during foreign secretary Vijay Gokhale's recent visit to Beijing. Gokhale's visit comes even as India and China mark one year since the Wuhan informal summit that took place in April 2018. Foreign secretary Gokhale also called on the Chinese foreign minister and state councillor Wang Yi. Meanwhile when asked about if Masood Azhar was raised by India during the talks, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Geng Shuang said, "The common interests of China and India are far greater than the differences between the two sides." "We hope that the two sides will continue to strengthen coordination and cooperation and maintain the positive momentum of the sound development of bilateral relations. In this regard, China is ready to work with India," he added. China on Wednesday dismissed reports that it had been served an ultimatum until April 23 by the US, UK and France to lift its "technical hold" on designating Pakistan-based JeM chief Masood Azhar as a global terrorist but claimed that the vexed issue is moving towards settlement. Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Lu Kang said, "I don't know where you get such information." MEA: It's now for the 1267 Sanctions Committee&other authorized bodies of UN to take a decision on listing of Masood Azhar. India will continue to pursue all avenues to ensure that terrorist leaders who are involved in heinous attacks on our citizens are brought to justice. (2/2) https://t.co/HsQzEMGgiA — ANI (@ANI) April 22, 2019 × Meanwhile, Pakistan will not be "pressured" by anyone on the issue of banning Masood Azhar, a top official here said on Thursday, a day after China dismissed reports that the US, the UK and France have served an ultimatum to Beijing to lift its "technical hold" on designating the JeM chief as a global terrorist by the UN. Pak's foreign office spokesman Mohammad Faisal said that Pakistan has a clear stance on Azhar. After the Pulwama attack, a fresh proposal to designate Azhar under the 1267 Al Qaeda Sanctions Committee of the UN Security Council was moved by France, the UK and the US. However, China blocked the bid by putting a "technical hold" on the proposal. Following this, the US backed by the UK and France moved directly to UN Security Council (UNSC) to blacklist Azhar. China, a veto-wielding member of the UNSC, had opposed the move, saying the issue should be resolved at the 1267 Committee itself which also functioned under the top UN body. (With inputs from agencies)

All evidence on Masood Azhar, Jaish shared with China, will continue to pursue all avenues: India 

Pakistan will not be "pressured" by anyone on the issue of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/firmly-oppose-forcing-new-resolution-through-unsc-on-masood-azhar-china-211140">banning Masood Azhar,</a> a top official here said on Thursday, a day after China dismissed reports that the US, the UK and France have served an ultimatum to Beijing to lift its "technical hold" on designating the JeM chief as a global terrorist by the UN.

Foreign Office spokesman Mohammad Faisal said that Pakistan has a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/masood-azhar-listing-as-global-terrorist-us-calls-for-public-voting-at-un-security-council-206170">clear stance on Azhar</a>.

India says Pakistan-based Azhar's Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terror group was behind the deadly February 14 attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama district in which over 40 CRPF personnel were killed.

Asked about China putting a technical hold to prevent Azhar from being designated a global terrorist at the UN, Faisal said: "Whatever decision Pakistan takes in this regard will be in its national interest. Pakistan will not be pressured by anyone".

China on Wednesday had dismissed reports that the US, the UK and France had served an ultimatum to Beijing to lift its "technical hold" by April 23 on branding Azhar as a global terrorist by the UN but claimed the vexed issue was "moving towards settlement".

After the Pulwama attack, a fresh proposal to designate Azhar under the 1267 Al Qaeda Sanctions Committee of the UN Security Council was moved by France, the US and the UK.

However, China, a close ally of Pakistan, blocked the bid by putting a "technical hold" on the proposal. Following this, the US, backed by the UK and France, moved directly to the UN Security Council (UNSC) to blacklist Azhar.

China, a veto-wielding member of the UNSC, opposed the move, saying the issue should be resolved at the 1267 Committee itself which also functioned under the top UN body.

China, which has previously blocked bids to blacklist Azhar thrice, stalled it once again at the 1267 Committee of the UN on March 14 by putting a "technical hold". 
&nbsp;

Pakistan will not be "pressured" by anyone on the issue of banning Masood Azhar, a top official here said on Thursday, a day after China dismissed reports that the US, the UK and France have served an ultimatum to Beijing to lift its "technical hold" on designating the JeM chief as a global terrorist by the UN.

Pakistan will not be "pressured" by anyone on the issue of banning Masood Azhar, a top official here said on Thursday, a day after China dismissed reports that the US, the UK and France have served an ultimatum to Beijing to lift its "technical hold" on designating the JeM chief as a global terrorist by the UN. Foreign Office spokesman Mohammad Faisal said that Pakistan has a clear stance on Azhar. India says Pakistan-based Azhar's Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terror group was behind the deadly February 14 attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama district in which over 40 CRPF personnel were killed. Asked about China putting a technical hold to prevent Azhar from being designated a global terrorist at the UN, Faisal said: "Whatever decision Pakistan takes in this regard will be in its national interest. Pakistan will not be pressured by anyone". China on Wednesday had dismissed reports that the US, the UK and France had served an ultimatum to Beijing to lift its "technical hold" by April 23 on branding Azhar as a global terrorist by the UN but claimed the vexed issue was "moving towards settlement". After the Pulwama attack, a fresh proposal to designate Azhar under the 1267 Al Qaeda Sanctions Committee of the UN Security Council was moved by France, the US and the UK. However, China, a close ally of Pakistan, blocked the bid by putting a "technical hold" on the proposal. Following this, the US, backed by the UK and France, moved directly to the UN Security Council (UNSC) to blacklist Azhar. China, a veto-wielding member of the UNSC, opposed the move, saying the issue should be resolved at the 1267 Committee itself which also functioned under the top UN body. China, which has previously blocked bids to blacklist Azhar thrice, stalled it once again at the 1267 Committee of the UN on March 14 by putting a "technical hold".

Will not be pressured by anyone on Masood Azhar: Pakistan foreign office

The National Investigation Agency on Saturday arrested a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jem-chief-masood-azhars-nephew-mohammad-umar-killed-in-jk-encounter-207826">Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM)</a> operative over his involvement in the 2017 terror attack on a CRPF camp in Lethpora in South Kashmir, officials said.

The accused identified as Syed Hilal Andrabi, an overground worker of the JeM and is allegedly a key conspirator who provided logistic support in the form of sheltering the terrorists and conducting reconnaissance of the CRPF group centre before the attack was carried out.

During the investigation, the trio which carried out the terror attack in 2017 was identified as Fardeen Ahmad Khandey, Manzoor Baba both residents of Pulwama district and a Pakistani terrorist Abdul Shakoor.

''All three terrorists were killed in the encounter. In this attack, 5 CRPF personnel were martyred and three were grievously injured," a statement from the NIA read.

''After his arrest from Jammu, accused Syed Hilal Andrabi was produced before the competent court and his five days’ police custody has been obtained for unearthing the larger conspiracy behind this attack,'' the statement said.

The terrorist attack on the CRPF group centre occurred on December 31, 2017, by three terrorists of proscribed terrorist of JeM.

Further investigation in the matter is underway.

The National Investigation Agency on Saturday arrested a Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) operative over his involvement in the 2017 terror attack on a CRPF camp in Lethpora in South Kashmir, officials said.

The National Investigation Agency on Saturday arrested a Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) operative over his involvement in the 2017 terror attack on a CRPF camp in Lethpora in South Kashmir, officials said. The accused identified as Syed Hilal Andrabi, an overground worker of the JeM and is allegedly a key conspirator who provided logistic support in the form of sheltering the terrorists and conducting reconnaissance of the CRPF group centre before the attack was carried out. During the investigation, the trio which carried out the terror attack in 2017 was identified as Fardeen Ahmad Khandey, Manzoor Baba both residents of Pulwama district and a Pakistani terrorist Abdul Shakoor. ''All three terrorists were killed in the encounter. In this attack, 5 CRPF personnel were martyred and three were grievously injured," a statement from the NIA read. ''After his arrest from Jammu, accused Syed Hilal Andrabi was produced before the competent court and his five days’ police custody has been obtained for unearthing the larger conspiracy behind this attack,'' the statement said. The terrorist attack on the CRPF group centre occurred on December 31, 2017, by three terrorists of proscribed terrorist of JeM. Further investigation in the matter is underway.

NIA arrests key conspirator in 2017 J&K terror attack

Police on Monday arrested a most wanted Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terrorist in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;

Faiyaz Ahmed Lone, a resident of Kupwara in Jammu and Kashmir, has been evading arrest since 2015.

The arrest was made by Special Cell, Delhi.

Lone was carrying a reward of Rs 2 lakh on his head.

Police on Monday arrested a most wanted Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terrorist in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir. Faiyaz Ahmed Lone, a resident of Kupwara in Jammu and Kashmir, has been evading arrest since 2015.

Police on Monday arrested a most wanted Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terrorist in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir. Faiyaz Ahmed Lone, a resident of Kupwara in Jammu and Kashmir, has been evading arrest since 2015. The arrest was made by Special Cell, Delhi. Lone was carrying a reward of Rs 2 lakh on his head.

Wanted JeM terrorist Faiyaz Ahmad Lone arrested in Srinagar 

Pakistan Army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa will brief the parliamentarians next week on "hostile situation at the Line of Control" in the aftermath of recent tension with India, media reports said on Sunday.

The briefing, to be held at the General Headquarters (GHQ) in Rawalpindi on April 4, will be attended by the members of standing committees of the National Assembly and Senate on defence, Dawn reported.

General Bajwa will "brief the parliamentarians on hostile situation at the Line of Control", it said.

The paper said that it will be the second briefing by the army chief to the parliamentarians over one month.

Earlier, parliamentarians were briefed in an in-camera session held at Parliament House on February 27, the day the Pakistan Air Force carried out a raid in India. However, Prime Minister Imran Khan did not attend the briefing.

This week's briefing would be attended by a number of prominent leaders from the opposition parties, including former ministers, as they are members of the two committees.

According to a notification issued by the National Assembly Secretariat, chairman of the NA committee Amjad Ali Khan would lead the delegation of members of the National Assembly, the lower house.

Defence Minister Pervez Khattak has also been invited as he is an ex-officio member of both standing committees.

The lawmakers have been told to assemble at Gate No 1 of Parliament House at 10 a.M. And those who intend to proceed directly to GHQ have been asked to provide registration numbers of their vehicles before the meeting.

A notification issued by the Senate Secretariat says that Chairman of Senate standing committee on defence Azam Swati will lead the Senate members.

A few days ago Prime Minister Khan had said that the "possibility of a misadventure" from India could not be ignored.

Earlier, Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi had said that the armed forces needed to remain alert.

Tensions between India and Pakistan escalated after the February 14 attack by Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed in Pulwama that killed 40 CRPF soldiers.

Amid mounting outrage, the Indian Air Force carried out a counter-terror operation, hitting what it said was a JeM training camp in Balakot, deep inside

Pakistan on February 26. The next day, Pakistan Air Force retaliated and downed a MiG-21 in aerial combat and captured an Indian pilot, who was handed over to India later.

Pakistan Army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa will brief the parliamentarians next week on "hostile situation at the Line of Control" in the aftermath of recent tension with India, media reports said on Sunday.

Pakistan Army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa will brief the parliamentarians next week on "hostile situation at the Line of Control" in the aftermath of recent tension with India, media reports said on Sunday. The briefing, to be held at the General Headquarters (GHQ) in Rawalpindi on April 4, will be attended by the members of standing committees of the National Assembly and Senate on defence, Dawn reported. General Bajwa will "brief the parliamentarians on hostile situation at the Line of Control", it said. The paper said that it will be the second briefing by the army chief to the parliamentarians over one month. Earlier, parliamentarians were briefed in an in-camera session held at Parliament House on February 27, the day the Pakistan Air Force carried out a raid in India. However, Prime Minister Imran Khan did not attend the briefing. This week's briefing would be attended by a number of prominent leaders from the opposition parties, including former ministers, as they are members of the two committees. According to a notification issued by the National Assembly Secretariat, chairman of the NA committee Amjad Ali Khan would lead the delegation of members of the National Assembly, the lower house. Defence Minister Pervez Khattak has also been invited as he is an ex-officio member of both standing committees. The lawmakers have been told to assemble at Gate No 1 of Parliament House at 10 a.M. And those who intend to proceed directly to GHQ have been asked to provide registration numbers of their vehicles before the meeting. A notification issued by the Senate Secretariat says that Chairman of Senate standing committee on defence Azam Swati will lead the Senate members. A few days ago Prime Minister Khan had said that the "possibility of a misadventure" from India could not be ignored. Earlier, Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi had said that the armed forces needed to remain alert. Tensions between India and Pakistan escalated after the February 14 attack by Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed in Pulwama that killed 40 CRPF soldiers. Amid mounting outrage, the Indian Air Force carried out a counter-terror operation, hitting what it said was a JeM training camp in Balakot, deep inside Pakistan on February 26. The next day, Pakistan Air Force retaliated and downed a MiG-21 in aerial combat and captured an Indian pilot, who was handed over to India later.

Pakistan Army chief to brief parliamentarians on 'hostile situation' at LoC

Two Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorists have been killed in an encounter with security forces on the outskirts of Srinagar following the inputs about their presence in the area.

After receiving inputs about their presence, joint forces of the Indian army, Jammu and Kashmir police and CRPF launched a joint cordon-and-search operation in Sutsu Kalan area of Chattergam in Budgam district.&nbsp;

Five Indian army personnel were also injured in the operation, all of them have received splinter injuries from a grenade fired by a terrorist.&nbsp;

They have been shifted to the army’s 92 base hospital for treatment.

Sources told WION that forces had inputs about the presence of three terrorists. A police official said that arms and ammunition have also been recovered from the spot.

Sources added that an advance rifle which was used to snipe out forces in the area was also recovered from the slain terrorists.&nbsp;

The identity of the slain terrorists wasn’t immediately known.&nbsp;

Two Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorists have been killed in an encounter with security forces on the outskirts of Srinagar following the inputs about their presence in the area.

Two Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorists have been killed in an encounter with security forces on the outskirts of Srinagar following the inputs about their presence in the area. After receiving inputs about their presence, joint forces of the Indian army, Jammu and Kashmir police and CRPF launched a joint cordon-and-search operation in Sutsu Kalan area of Chattergam in Budgam district. Five Indian army personnel were also injured in the operation, all of them have received splinter injuries from a grenade fired by a terrorist. They have been shifted to the army’s 92 base hospital for treatment. Sources told WION that forces had inputs about the presence of three terrorists. A police official said that arms and ammunition have also been recovered from the spot. Sources added that an advance rifle which was used to snipe out forces in the area was also recovered from the slain terrorists. The identity of the slain terrorists wasn’t immediately known.

J&K: Security forces gun down two Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorists near Srinagar

The United States on Wednesday circulated a draft resolution to the UN Security Council that would blacklist the leader of a Pakistan-based Islamist group as a terrorist, setting up a potential clash with China over the move.

China earlier this month put on hold a request to put <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/hopeful-that-all-eu-member-states-will-back-listing-of-jem-chief-masood-azhar-as-terrorist-germany-205700">Masood Azhar, leader of the Jaish-e-Mohammed</a> (JeM) on the UN sanctions list, over his alleged ties to Al-Qaeda.

That request stalled in a UN sanctions committee, prompting the United States to turn directly to the Security Council with the proposed resolution blacklisting Azhar.

Jaish-e-Mohammed has claimed responsibility for the February 14 attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama that killed 40 Indian troops and stoked tensions between India and Pakistan.

The draft resolution obtained by AFP condemns the suicide bombing and decides that Azhar will be added to the UN Al-Qaeda and Islamic State&nbsp;sanctions blacklist.

That would subject Azhar, co-founder of the JeM, to a global travel ban, an assets freeze and an arms embargo.

It remained unclear when a vote would be held on the draft resolution, which could face a veto from China, one of the five permanent council members along with Britain, France, Russia and the United States.

There have been four attempts through a UN sanctions committee to add&nbsp;Azhar to the blacklist. China blocked three previous requests and put a technical hold on the latest one, which could last up to nine months. JeM itself has been on the UN terror list since 2001.

Azhar is linked to terrorism for "participating in the financing, planning, facilitating, preparing, or perpetrating of acts or activities" carried out by JeM, according to an annex to the draft.

The draft resolution is backed by France and Britain, which joined the United States earlier this month in pushing for sanctions against Azhar in the Al-Qaeda and Islamic State committee.

China has been accused by Western diplomats of protecting Pakistan's interests in the latest standoff with India.

But Beijing has defended its decision by arguing it had adopted a "responsible attitude" in dealing "with this issue with relevant parties via thorough consultation," foreign ministry spokesman Lu Kang said.

The Chinese mission to the United Nations did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Tensions between India and Pakistan have soared since last month's attack in Jammu and Kashmir that prompted tit-for-tat air raids, fueling fears of an all-out conflict between the two nuclear-armed countries.

The United States on Wednesday circulated a draft resolution to the UN Security Council that would blacklist the leader of a Pakistan-based Islamist group as a terrorist, setting up a potential clash with China over the move.

The United States on Wednesday circulated a draft resolution to the UN Security Council that would blacklist the leader of a Pakistan-based Islamist group as a terrorist, setting up a potential clash with China over the move. China earlier this month put on hold a request to put Masood Azhar, leader of the Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) on the UN sanctions list, over his alleged ties to Al-Qaeda. That request stalled in a UN sanctions committee, prompting the United States to turn directly to the Security Council with the proposed resolution blacklisting Azhar. Jaish-e-Mohammed has claimed responsibility for the February 14 attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama that killed 40 Indian troops and stoked tensions between India and Pakistan. The draft resolution obtained by AFP condemns the suicide bombing and decides that Azhar will be added to the UN Al-Qaeda and Islamic State sanctions blacklist. That would subject Azhar, co-founder of the JeM, to a global travel ban, an assets freeze and an arms embargo. It remained unclear when a vote would be held on the draft resolution, which could face a veto from China, one of the five permanent council members along with Britain, France, Russia and the United States. There have been four attempts through a UN sanctions committee to add Azhar to the blacklist. China blocked three previous requests and put a technical hold on the latest one, which could last up to nine months. JeM itself has been on the UN terror list since 2001. Azhar is linked to terrorism for "participating in the financing, planning, facilitating, preparing, or perpetrating of acts or activities" carried out by JeM, according to an annex to the draft. The draft resolution is backed by France and Britain, which joined the United States earlier this month in pushing for sanctions against Azhar in the Al-Qaeda and Islamic State committee. China has been accused by Western diplomats of protecting Pakistan's interests in the latest standoff with India. But Beijing has defended its decision by arguing it had adopted a "responsible attitude" in dealing "with this issue with relevant parties via thorough consultation," foreign ministry spokesman Lu Kang said. The Chinese mission to the United Nations did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Tensions between India and Pakistan have soared since last month's attack in Jammu and Kashmir that prompted tit-for-tat air raids, fueling fears of an all-out conflict between the two nuclear-armed countries.

Masood Azhar listing as global terrorist: US circulates draft resolution to United Nations Security Council

In a major development, the US has called for a public vote on the listing of Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) chief Masood Azhar as a global terrorist. The US has for now circulated a draft resolution in the UN Security Council.&nbsp;

The draft resolution does not require a consensus like with the UNSC 1267 committee. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-protecting-violent-islamic-terror-groups-from-un-sanctions-mike-pompeo-206163">China had only this month vetoed a proposal by the committee to list Masood as a terrorist</a>.&nbsp;

Instead, the US's draft resolution needs nine votes in favour from the 15 UNSC members and no vetoes by permanent members China, Russia, the United States, France and Britain to pass. (That means China can veto it again.)&nbsp;

It remains unclear when the vote on the resolution will be held but when it is, it will be a public vote. This public vote will bypass the 1267 committee mode to designate Azhar a global terrorist.&nbsp;

The US, UK, and France had after the Pulwama terrorist attack last month proposed the designation of Masood Azhar as a global terrorist, but China put a technical hold on the move on March 13.&nbsp;

China has previously blocked the listing of Masood Azhar three times — in 2009, in 2016 and in 2017.

&nbsp;The JeM, of which Azhar is a co-founder, had claimed responsibility for the February 14 Pulwama terrorist attack that killed over 40 Indian security personnel.

In a major development, the US has called for a public vote on the listing of Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) chief Masood Azhar as a global terrorist. The US has for now circulated a draft resolution in the UN Security Council.

In a major development, the US has called for a public vote on the listing of Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) chief Masood Azhar as a global terrorist. The US has for now circulated a draft resolution in the UN Security Council. The draft resolution does not require a consensus like with the UNSC 1267 committee. China had only this month vetoed a proposal by the committee to list Masood as a terrorist. Instead, the US's draft resolution needs nine votes in favour from the 15 UNSC members and no vetoes by permanent members China, Russia, the United States, France and Britain to pass. (That means China can veto it again.) It remains unclear when the vote on the resolution will be held but when it is, it will be a public vote. This public vote will bypass the 1267 committee mode to designate Azhar a global terrorist. The US, UK, and France had after the Pulwama terrorist attack last month proposed the designation of Masood Azhar as a global terrorist, but China put a technical hold on the move on March 13. China has previously blocked the listing of Masood Azhar three times — in 2009, in 2016 and in 2017. The JeM, of which Azhar is a co-founder, had claimed responsibility for the February 14 Pulwama terrorist attack that killed over 40 Indian security personnel.

Listing of Masood Azhar as global terrorist: US calls for public vote in UNSC

Three terrorists affiliated with the proscribed terror outfit <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pulwama-terror-attack-delhi-polices-special-cell-arrests-close-aide-of-jem-mastermind-mudasir-khan-204827">Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM)</a> were arrested on Sunday, officials informed.

The action was taken based on a credible input and the three car-borne terrorists were arrested by police and security forces informed Jammu and Kashmir police.

J&amp;K Police also added that incriminating material including ammunition and live rounds were recovered after the arrest.

A case has been registered and the investigation is under process.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Three terrorists affiliated with the proscribed terror outfit Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) were arrested on Sunday, officials informed. The action was taken based on a credible input and the three car-borne terrorists were arrested by police and security forces informed Jammu and Kashmir police.

Three terrorists affiliated with the proscribed terror outfit Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) were arrested on Sunday, officials informed. The action was taken based on a credible input and the three car-borne terrorists were arrested by police and security forces informed Jammu and Kashmir police. J&K Police also added that incriminating material including ammunition and live rounds were recovered after the arrest. A case has been registered and the investigation is under process.

Jammu and Kashmir: Three JeM terrorists arrested

Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorist Sajjad Khan has been arrested by Delhi Police Special Cell. Khan is believed to be a close associate of Pulwama terror attack mastermind Mudassir who had been killed earlier this month.&nbsp;

Sajjad Khan, 27, a resident of Pulwama was arrested near the Lajpat Rai market late Thursday night, officials said.

"Mudasir, the mastermind of Pulwama attack was killed in an exchange of fire with security forces in Jammu and Kashmir recently," Pramod Singh Kushwah, Deputy Commissioner of Police (Special Cell) said.

Sajjad was tasked by Mudassir to establish a sleeper cell in Delhi, the officer added.&nbsp;

Jammu and Kashmir Police and the Army in Srinagar held a joint briefing earlier this month. T<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/key-pulwama-conspirator-killed-in-tral-encounter-today-44-terrorists-eliminated-in-first-70-days-of-2019-army-jk-police-202613">op officials told media that the security forces had "eliminated" another JeM commander</a>, a key conspirator of the Pulwama terror attack.&nbsp;

The briefing was jointly addressed by Lt General KJS Dhillon, GoC 15 Corps, and SP Pani, IG, J&amp;K Police.

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Jaish e Mohammad terrorist Sajjad Khan arrested by Delhi Police Special Cell. He was a close associate of Pulwama attack mastermind Mudassir who had been eliminated earlier this month
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"In last 21 days, we have eliminated 18 terrorists, out of the 14 being from JeM, 6 out of 14 were main commanders. JeM's 2nd commander Mudasir-main conspirator in national highway convoy attack has also been eliminated," Dhillon, Corps Commander of the Chinar Corps, said. Pakistani militant Khalid was also killed in the encounter.&nbsp;

"The main conspirators (of Pulwama) Mudasir and Kamran have been killed. We have gone with all force against JeM. Six terrorists killed since attack are A+ category," he said.&nbsp;

The officials added that in the first 70 days of 2019, security forces have been successful in eliminating 44 terrorists, mainly from Jaish-e-Mohammed. "Against 1629 ceasefire violations along Line of Control in 2018, this year 478 ceasefire violations have already taken place along LoC," the officials stated.&nbsp;

Over 40 Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel were killed in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama district after a JeM terrorist rammed an explosive-laden vehicle into their bus, which was part of a convoy going to Srinagar from Jammu in February.&nbsp;

Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorist Sajjad Khan has been arrested by Delhi Police Special Cell. Khan is believed to be a close associate of Pulwama terror attack mastermind Mudassir who had been killed earlier this month.

Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorist Sajjad Khan has been arrested by Delhi Police Special Cell. Khan is believed to be a close associate of Pulwama terror attack mastermind Mudassir who had been killed earlier this month. Sajjad Khan, 27, a resident of Pulwama was arrested near the Lajpat Rai market late Thursday night, officials said. "Mudasir, the mastermind of Pulwama attack was killed in an exchange of fire with security forces in Jammu and Kashmir recently," Pramod Singh Kushwah, Deputy Commissioner of Police (Special Cell) said. Sajjad was tasked by Mudassir to establish a sleeper cell in Delhi, the officer added. Jammu and Kashmir Police and the Army in Srinagar held a joint briefing earlier this month. Top officials told media that the security forces had "eliminated" another JeM commander, a key conspirator of the Pulwama terror attack. The briefing was jointly addressed by Lt General KJS Dhillon, GoC 15 Corps, and SP Pani, IG, J&K Police. Jaish e Mohammad terrorist Sajjad Khan arrested by Delhi Police Special Cell. He was a close associate of Pulwama attack mastermind Mudassir who had been eliminated earlier this month — ANI (@ANI) March 22, 2019 × "In last 21 days, we have eliminated 18 terrorists, out of the 14 being from JeM, 6 out of 14 were main commanders. JeM's 2nd commander Mudasir-main conspirator in national highway convoy attack has also been eliminated," Dhillon, Corps Commander of the Chinar Corps, said. Pakistani militant Khalid was also killed in the encounter. "The main conspirators (of Pulwama) Mudasir and Kamran have been killed. We have gone with all force against JeM. Six terrorists killed since attack are A+ category," he said. The officials added that in the first 70 days of 2019, security forces have been successful in eliminating 44 terrorists, mainly from Jaish-e-Mohammed. "Against 1629 ceasefire violations along Line of Control in 2018, this year 478 ceasefire violations have already taken place along LoC," the officials stated. Over 40 Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel were killed in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama district after a JeM terrorist rammed an explosive-laden vehicle into their bus, which was part of a convoy going to Srinagar from Jammu in February.

Pulwama terror attack: Delhi Police's Special Cell arrests close aide of JeM mastermind Mudasir Khan

Restrictions over large swathes of Pakistani airspace continued to affect numerous flight routes, officials said Tuesday, weeks after clashes between Pakistan and India brought the nuclear-armed rivals to the brink of war.

The continued constraints come weeks after Pakistani authorities said they had fully reopened the country's airspace after it was closed for days following clashes and aerial dogfights between the two countries late last month. &nbsp;

"All entry and exit points to and from India remain closed," a senior Pakistan official told AFP on the condition of anonymity, saying the decision to keep portions of the country's airspace closed was reviewed daily by authorities.

The closure of large swathes of the eastern airspace effectively shuts off major international flight routes in and out of Islamabad and Lahore along with select domestic routes.

"At least seven domestic and four international destinations are suspended," Pakistan International Airlines spokesman Mashud Tajwar said.

The national carrier's operations to India, Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur have all been suspended for nearly a month causing heavy losses to the already struggling airline.

"We can't give off-hand estimates of the losses but yes the losses have been occurring for sure," Tajwar told AFP.

Aviation experts said the ongoing restrictions have also affected Indian flights headed west over Pakistan.

"Indian airlines are suffering much more compared to Pakistan because their westward operations are much bigger," said Sajid Habib, a former chief of state-run Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).

Information from online flight tracker flightradar24 showed no flights along the border between the two countries.&nbsp;

The crisis between the countries was first sparked by a suicide bombing in Indian-administered Kashmir last month that killed 40 Indian security personnel and was later claimed by the Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed.

Days later India responded with a cross-border air raid on Pakistan that kicked off a quick succession of attacks and dogfights between the arch-rivals over the disputed Kashmir frontier that spurred fears of wider war erupting.

Pakistani and Indian soldiers have continued to fire over the Line of Control -- the de-facto border dividing Kashmir, killing several civilians on both sides.

Kashmir has been divided between India and Pakistan since the end of British colonial rule in 1947.

Both claim the Himalayan territory in full and have fought two wars over it.

The ongoing flight restrictions come as the government prepares to close the airspace over the capital for half a day for Pakistan Day on March 23, with Islamabad set to host a parade accompanied by a military air show.

Restrictions over large swathes of Pakistani airspace continued to affect numerous flight routes, officials said Tuesday, weeks after clashes between Pakistan and India brought the nuclear-armed rivals to the brink of war.

Restrictions over large swathes of Pakistani airspace continued to affect numerous flight routes, officials said Tuesday, weeks after clashes between Pakistan and India brought the nuclear-armed rivals to the brink of war. The continued constraints come weeks after Pakistani authorities said they had fully reopened the country's airspace after it was closed for days following clashes and aerial dogfights between the two countries late last month. "All entry and exit points to and from India remain closed," a senior Pakistan official told AFP on the condition of anonymity, saying the decision to keep portions of the country's airspace closed was reviewed daily by authorities. The closure of large swathes of the eastern airspace effectively shuts off major international flight routes in and out of Islamabad and Lahore along with select domestic routes. "At least seven domestic and four international destinations are suspended," Pakistan International Airlines spokesman Mashud Tajwar said. The national carrier's operations to India, Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur have all been suspended for nearly a month causing heavy losses to the already struggling airline. "We can't give off-hand estimates of the losses but yes the losses have been occurring for sure," Tajwar told AFP. Aviation experts said the ongoing restrictions have also affected Indian flights headed west over Pakistan. "Indian airlines are suffering much more compared to Pakistan because their westward operations are much bigger," said Sajid Habib, a former chief of state-run Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). Information from online flight tracker flightradar24 showed no flights along the border between the two countries. The crisis between the countries was first sparked by a suicide bombing in Indian-administered Kashmir last month that killed 40 Indian security personnel and was later claimed by the Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed. Days later India responded with a cross-border air raid on Pakistan that kicked off a quick succession of attacks and dogfights between the arch-rivals over the disputed Kashmir frontier that spurred fears of wider war erupting. Pakistani and Indian soldiers have continued to fire over the Line of Control -- the de-facto border dividing Kashmir, killing several civilians on both sides. Kashmir has been divided between India and Pakistan since the end of British colonial rule in 1947. Both claim the Himalayan territory in full and have fought two wars over it. The ongoing flight restrictions come as the government prepares to close the airspace over the capital for half a day for Pakistan Day on March 23, with Islamabad set to host a parade accompanied by a military air show.

Pakistani airspace restrictions keep routes closed, carriers off balance

At a time when tensions with Pakistan are heightened, the Defence Ministry is likely to consider a proposal to buy 10 lakh multi-mode hand grenades for the Indian Army under the 'Make in India' project in the military sector.

''A proposal for buying 10 lakh hand grenades from an Indian firm would be considered by the Defence Ministry at a high-level meeting to be chaired by Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman this week,'' government sources told ANI.

The more than Rs 500 crore proposal is critical as the government has already taken care of the main personal weapon requirements of the Army soldiers by signing two contracts for modern rifles.

In the first case, a contract worth over Rs 700 crore for around 75,000 Sig Sauer assault rifles from an American firm has been signed while a joint venture has been formed with Russia to manufacture 7.5 lakh modern AK-203 assault rifles.

The project for acquiring new hand grenades is required for the replacement of the existing HE-36 grenades manufactured by the Ordnance Factory Board.&nbsp;

The multi-mode grenades have been developed by the DRDO and a production agency has been selected to manufacture them in large numbers.&nbsp;

Hand grenades are among the few critical weapons that soldiers need in the time of war as they can be used to cause heavy&nbsp; 
damage to enemy positions or bunkers apart from taking out their soldiers.

Tensions between India and Pakistan have been heightened after the Pulwama attack on February 14 in which 40 CRPF personnel lost their lives.

India avenged the attack by striking the Balakot terrorist training camp of Jaish-e-Mohammed in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province of Pakistan.

At a time when tensions with Pakistan are heightened, the Defence Ministry is likely to consider a proposal to buy 10 lakh multi-mode hand grenades for the Indian Army under the 'Make in India' project in the military sector.

At a time when tensions with Pakistan are heightened, the Defence Ministry is likely to consider a proposal to buy 10 lakh multi-mode hand grenades for the Indian Army under the 'Make in India' project in the military sector. ''A proposal for buying 10 lakh hand grenades from an Indian firm would be considered by the Defence Ministry at a high-level meeting to be chaired by Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman this week,'' government sources told ANI. The more than Rs 500 crore proposal is critical as the government has already taken care of the main personal weapon requirements of the Army soldiers by signing two contracts for modern rifles. In the first case, a contract worth over Rs 700 crore for around 75,000 Sig Sauer assault rifles from an American firm has been signed while a joint venture has been formed with Russia to manufacture 7.5 lakh modern AK-203 assault rifles. The project for acquiring new hand grenades is required for the replacement of the existing HE-36 grenades manufactured by the Ordnance Factory Board. The multi-mode grenades have been developed by the DRDO and a production agency has been selected to manufacture them in large numbers. Hand grenades are among the few critical weapons that soldiers need in the time of war as they can be used to cause heavy damage to enemy positions or bunkers apart from taking out their soldiers. Tensions between India and Pakistan have been heightened after the Pulwama attack on February 14 in which 40 CRPF personnel lost their lives. India avenged the attack by striking the Balakot terrorist training camp of Jaish-e-Mohammed in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province of Pakistan.

Defence Ministry plans to buy 10 lakh hand grenades for combat troops

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