Turkey To Build Four Corvettes For Pakistan As President Erdogan Prioritises Ties With Pakistan. In 2017, when Turkey's President Erdogan visited India, India and Turkey defined their ties as a 'stable and friendly' partnership. Two years later, Turkey is singing a different tune. First Erdogan took the pro-Pakistan position on Kashmir issue, now Turkey is building a warship for Pakistan. Palki explains.

Gravitas: Erdogan Chooses Pakistan Over India As Turkey Builds Warship For Pakistan

Turkey & Pakistan Have Always Maintained Strong Ties. Despite That, Erdogan's Position On Kashmir Is Driven By Vested Interests & Economic Compulsions Pakistan and Turkey have historically maintained strong ties. Despite that, Turkey's President Erdogan's staunch support for Pakistan on Kashmir issue raises a few red flags. Turkey's support to Pakistan is driven by Erdogan's desire to exploit Pakistan as a market for the sale of weapons. This report analyses Turkey's ties with Pakistan.

Gravitas: Charting The Evolution Of Turkey-Pakistan Bilateral Ties

The Continued Support Of Turkey & Malaysia To Pakistan On Kashmir Is Based On Religion & Such Religious Congregation Is A Serious Problem On #WionEdit, @Palkisu analyses the unflinching support extended by Turkey and Malaysia to Pakistan on Kashmir issue. One, the congregation is based on religion and two, there are vested political benefits for all parties in this coalition. In simple terms, these countries are not guardians of Muslim community across the world.

Wion Edit: Turkey-malaysia-pakistan: Coalition Of Hypocrisy?

Pakistan on Wednesday summoned Indian Deputy High Commissioner Gaurav Ahluwalia following ceasefire violations along the Line of Control (LoC). 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bsf-jawan-sustains-minor-injuries-in-ceasefire-violation-by-pakistan-jks-kathua-252960">Pakistani troops</a> resorted to firing with small arms and shelling with mortars on Tuesday, Army sources said. 
 
Islamabad claimed that a 50-year-old woman was killed during the violation, while two other people sustained critical injuries, reported Dawn. Ahluwalia was summoned by Pakistan Foreign Office Spokesperson Mohammad Faisal. 
 
New Delhi has repeatedly urged <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistan-violates-ceasefire-in-jammu-kashmirs-poonch-indian-army-retaliating-252949">Pakistan to "respect" the 2003 ceasefire arrangement</a> between the two countries. 
 
The development comes amid heightened tensions between India and Pakistan after New Delhi's move to abrogate Article 370 that granted special status to Jammu and Kashmir. 
 
Last month, Indian High Commissioner to Pakistan Ajay Bisaria returned to New Delhi after Pakistan urged India to recall its envoy.

Pakistan on Wednesday summoned Indian Deputy High Commissioner Gaurav Ahluwalia following ceasefire violations along the Line of Control (LoC). Pakistani troops resorted to firing with small arms and shelling with mortars on Tuesday, Army sources said.

Pakistan on Wednesday summoned Indian Deputy High Commissioner Gaurav Ahluwalia following ceasefire violations along the Line of Control (LoC). Pakistani troops resorted to firing with small arms and shelling with mortars on Tuesday, Army sources said. Islamabad claimed that a 50-year-old woman was killed during the violation, while two other people sustained critical injuries, reported Dawn. Ahluwalia was summoned by Pakistan Foreign Office Spokesperson Mohammad Faisal. New Delhi has repeatedly urged Pakistan to "respect" the 2003 ceasefire arrangement between the two countries. The development comes amid heightened tensions between India and Pakistan after New Delhi's move to abrogate Article 370 that granted special status to Jammu and Kashmir. Last month, Indian High Commissioner to Pakistan Ajay Bisaria returned to New Delhi after Pakistan urged India to recall its envoy.

Pakistan summons Indian envoy following ceasefire violation along Line of Control

A Border Security Force (BSF) personnel sustained minor injuries in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistan-violates-ceasefire-in-jammu-kashmirs-poonch-indian-army-retaliating-252949">ceasefire violation</a> by Pakistan at Manyari post of Hiranagar in Kathua district, last night.

Constable Abhishek Roy, who received splinter injuries, is undergoing treatment at JMC hospital.

His condition is reported to be normal.

The Pakistani rangers violated ceasefire by firing 54 HE bombs, and 33 RDS&nbsp;with small weapons.

The BSF troops strongly retaliated to the firing.

A Border Security Force (BSF) personnel sustained minor injuries in ceasefire violation by Pakistan at Manyari post of Hiranagar in Kathua district, last night. Constable Abhishek Roy, who received splinter injuries, is undergoing treatment at JMC hospital.

A Border Security Force (BSF) personnel sustained minor injuries in ceasefire violation by Pakistan at Manyari post of Hiranagar in Kathua district, last night. Constable Abhishek Roy, who received splinter injuries, is undergoing treatment at JMC hospital. His condition is reported to be normal. The Pakistani rangers violated ceasefire by firing 54 HE bombs, and 33 RDS with small weapons. The BSF troops strongly retaliated to the firing.

Border Security Force jawan sustains injuries in ceasefire violation by Pakistan in Jammu and Kashmir's Kathua

Pakistan on Wednesday morning <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-and-kashmir-pakistan-violates-ceasefire-along-loc-in-shahpur-kerni-sectors-in-poonch-district-250938">violated ceasefire</a> along the Line of Control (LoC) in the Shahpur and Kirni sector in Pooch district of Jammu and Kashmir.

The Indian Army is retaliating befittingly to the unprovoked ceasefire violation.

Firing and shelling from across the border started at around 7:45 am IST today, with the Pakistani troops resorting to the firing of small arms and shelling with mortars.

Further details are awaited.

Pakistan on Wednesday morning violated ceasefire along the Line of Control (LoC) in the Shahpur and Kirni sector in Pooch district of Jammu and Kashmir. The Indian Army is retaliating befittingly to the unprovoked ceasefire violation.

Pakistan on Wednesday morning violated ceasefire along the Line of Control (LoC) in the Shahpur and Kirni sector in Pooch district of Jammu and Kashmir. The Indian Army is retaliating befittingly to the unprovoked ceasefire violation. Firing and shelling from across the border started at around 7:45 am IST today, with the Pakistani troops resorting to the firing of small arms and shelling with mortars. Further details are awaited.

Pakistan violates ceasefire in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch, Indian Army retaliating

Pakistan removes Maleeha Lodhi, appoints Munir Akram as UN envoy. Watch video to know more.

Pakistan removes Maleeha Lodhi, appoints Munir Akram as UN envoy

Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu on Tuesday appreciated the way India effectively unveiled its vision for lasting peace and development for humanity at the United Nations General Secretary (UNGA) and hit out at Pakistan for its mindset of 'violence, terrorism and warmongering for short-sighted vested interests'.

Addressing a gathering after presenting the 20th Lal Bahadur Shastri National Award for Excellence: 2019 to Plant Scientist Dr Manju Sharma, Naidu&nbsp;said that the recent session of UNGA presented a clear choice between peaceful coexistence and pursuit of conflicts bordering on perversion.

"Humanity had to choose the model of statesmanship showcased by India to march on the path of peaceful development, rather than the brinkmanship-model that has no concern for the larger good of humanity," the vice president&nbsp;said in an apparent attack on Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on his speech at UNGA.

Complimenting <a href="wionews.com/india-news/terrorism-is-the-biggest-global-challenge-for-humanitys-sake-lets-unite-against-terrorism-says-pm-narendra-modi-at-unga-252493">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> for taking a firm and dignified stand against Pakistan's "highly condemnable acts", Naidu said that PM Modi championed the cause of peace and prosperity for the larger good.

"It brought out in focus two diametrically opposite visions, statesmanship soaring high in the statement of PM Modi and its opposite of brinkmanship stooping too low," the Vice President said.

Asserting that terrorism was the enemy of mankind and that those who aid and abet terror and violence must be isolated, he said that India continued to firmly adhere to its values of peace, in spite of grave provocation from the neighbour who unabashedly aids and abets terrorism.

Pointing out that India, since time immemorial has always embraced the values of peace, tolerance, brotherhood and harmony, the Vice President said that India has handled the recent escalation of tensions with remarkable restraint, grace, and poise.

Paying his tributes to Lal Bahadur Shashtri, Naidu said that tall leaders like him firmly believed that peace was the first step to prosperity.

He said that their belief, which has deep roots in Indian philosophy, helped them handle and defuse extraordinarily volatile situations with ease and poise.

Referring to Shastri's address to the nation during the Indo-Pak war in 1965, the Vice President said that he proposed peaceful coexistence to bring an end to conflicts.

Asserting that a subcontinent at peace would benefit all and that constant strife, hostility, conflict and terror drag us all down, Naidu said that Shastri Ji's words serve as a guiding light in our efforts to bring peace and prosperity to the sub-continent.

The Vice President asked the youngsters to learn about the exemplary life of Lal Bahadur Shastri and draw inspiration from it to serve the nation with zeal and passion.

Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu on Tuesday appreciated the way India effectively unveiled its vision for lasting peace and development for humanity at the United Nations General Secretary (UNGA) and hit out at Pakistan for its mindset of 'violence, terrorism and warmongering for short-sighted vested interests'.

Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu on Tuesday appreciated the way India effectively unveiled its vision for lasting peace and development for humanity at the United Nations General Secretary (UNGA) and hit out at Pakistan for its mindset of 'violence, terrorism and warmongering for short-sighted vested interests'. Addressing a gathering after presenting the 20th Lal Bahadur Shastri National Award for Excellence: 2019 to Plant Scientist Dr Manju Sharma, Naidu said that the recent session of UNGA presented a clear choice between peaceful coexistence and pursuit of conflicts bordering on perversion. "Humanity had to choose the model of statesmanship showcased by India to march on the path of peaceful development, rather than the brinkmanship-model that has no concern for the larger good of humanity," the vice president said in an apparent attack on Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on his speech at UNGA. Complimenting Prime Minister Narendra Modi for taking a firm and dignified stand against Pakistan's "highly condemnable acts", Naidu said that PM Modi championed the cause of peace and prosperity for the larger good. "It brought out in focus two diametrically opposite visions, statesmanship soaring high in the statement of PM Modi and its opposite of brinkmanship stooping too low," the Vice President said. Asserting that terrorism was the enemy of mankind and that those who aid and abet terror and violence must be isolated, he said that India continued to firmly adhere to its values of peace, in spite of grave provocation from the neighbour who unabashedly aids and abets terrorism. Pointing out that India, since time immemorial has always embraced the values of peace, tolerance, brotherhood and harmony, the Vice President said that India has handled the recent escalation of tensions with remarkable restraint, grace, and poise. Paying his tributes to Lal Bahadur Shashtri, Naidu said that tall leaders like him firmly believed that peace was the first step to prosperity. He said that their belief, which has deep roots in Indian philosophy, helped them handle and defuse extraordinarily volatile situations with ease and poise. Referring to Shastri's address to the nation during the Indo-Pak war in 1965, the Vice President said that he proposed peaceful coexistence to bring an end to conflicts. Asserting that a subcontinent at peace would benefit all and that constant strife, hostility, conflict and terror drag us all down, Naidu said that Shastri Ji's words serve as a guiding light in our efforts to bring peace and prosperity to the sub-continent. The Vice President asked the youngsters to learn about the exemplary life of Lal Bahadur Shastri and draw inspiration from it to serve the nation with zeal and passion.

India at UNGA presented clear choice between peaceful coexistence and pursuit of conflicts: Vice President Venkaiah Naidu

A decision by Pakistan to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/day-after-imran-khan-returns-from-us-pakistan-removes-maleeha-lodhi-as-permanent-representative-to-un-252912">appoint a former diplomat as its ambassador to the United Nations</a> has sparked criticism over his alleged involvement in a domestic violence dispute in 2002.&nbsp;

Munir Akram "has been appointed as Permanent Representative of Pakistan to the United Nations in New York, in place of Dr. Maleeha Lodhi," the country's ministry of foreign affairs said in a statement late Monday.&nbsp;

Akram served a previous stint in the post from 2002 to 2008.

But in January 2003 the United States asked Pakistan to waive Akram's diplomatic immunity so that he could be prosecuted on assault charges.

According to press reports, New York police were called to Akram's home on December 10, 2002 by a woman who alleged the envoy had beaten her.

The woman told police dispatchers that the envoy had smashed her head into a wall, that her arm hurt and that he had hit her before, according to the newspaper accounts.

The case could have had potentially embarrassing diplomatic ramifications.&nbsp;

At the time, Pakistan was a key US ally in the war on terror, and had just taken up a seat on the UN Security Council, which was then considering whether to authorise military action against Iraq.

Akram, who enjoys full diplomatic immunity, was never charged.

Even so his return to the post ignited a swift backlash Tuesday, many from women angered over the decision.

"In the age of #MeToo, the appointment... sends absolutely the wrong message to Pakistan men AND women; being a domestic violence perpetrator will earn you not just protection from the government but also not harm your career," wrote feminist author Bina Shah in a statement posted on Twitter.&nbsp;

Others decried Akram's age -- he is in his 70s -- and his hawkishness over Pakistan's arch-rival India, with Pakistani media suggesting that his appointment hints at a new, more aggressive policy by Islamabad over the disputed region of Kashmir.

However many also praised him as a seasoned diplomat who would take up the role just as Pakistan is trying to rally the international community to challenge India over Kashmir.

The widely-respected Lodhi, who had served in the post for four years, said on Twitter that she had planned to move on after last week's UN General Assembly, and wished Akram luck in the role.

A decision by Pakistan to appoint a former diplomat as its ambassador to the United Nations has sparked criticism over his alleged involvement in a domestic violence dispute in 2002.

A decision by Pakistan to appoint a former diplomat as its ambassador to the United Nations has sparked criticism over his alleged involvement in a domestic violence dispute in 2002. Munir Akram "has been appointed as Permanent Representative of Pakistan to the United Nations in New York, in place of Dr. Maleeha Lodhi," the country's ministry of foreign affairs said in a statement late Monday. Akram served a previous stint in the post from 2002 to 2008. But in January 2003 the United States asked Pakistan to waive Akram's diplomatic immunity so that he could be prosecuted on assault charges. According to press reports, New York police were called to Akram's home on December 10, 2002 by a woman who alleged the envoy had beaten her. The woman told police dispatchers that the envoy had smashed her head into a wall, that her arm hurt and that he had hit her before, according to the newspaper accounts. The case could have had potentially embarrassing diplomatic ramifications. At the time, Pakistan was a key US ally in the war on terror, and had just taken up a seat on the UN Security Council, which was then considering whether to authorise military action against Iraq. Akram, who enjoys full diplomatic immunity, was never charged. Even so his return to the post ignited a swift backlash Tuesday, many from women angered over the decision. "In the age of #MeToo, the appointment... sends absolutely the wrong message to Pakistan men AND women; being a domestic violence perpetrator will earn you not just protection from the government but also not harm your career," wrote feminist author Bina Shah in a statement posted on Twitter. Others decried Akram's age -- he is in his 70s -- and his hawkishness over Pakistan's arch-rival India, with Pakistani media suggesting that his appointment hints at a new, more aggressive policy by Islamabad over the disputed region of Kashmir. However many also praised him as a seasoned diplomat who would take up the role just as Pakistan is trying to rally the international community to challenge India over Kashmir. The widely-respected Lodhi, who had served in the post for four years, said on Twitter that she had planned to move on after last week's UN General Assembly, and wished Akram luck in the role.

Outcry as Pakistan appoints new UN envoy Munir Akram

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/iaf-receives-first-rafale-combat-aircraft-in-france-250884">Rafale jets</a> will greatly enhance the capabilities of the Indian Air Force (IAF) and will give the IAF an edge over Pakistan and China, new IAF Chief Air Chief Marshal RKS Bhadauria said on Monday. 
 
"Rafale is a very capable aircraft, once we induct it, it will be a gamechanger in terms of our operational capability and when we use it in combination with SU-30 and other fleets which we have, we would have a serious jump in our capability. It will give us an edge over Pakistan and China," Bhadauria told ANI soon after taking over as the 26th chief of the force. 
 
Incidentally, Bhadauria was the chairman of the Indian negotiation team for the Rs 60,000 crore 36 Rafale combat aircraft deal and played a significant role in getting deal cleared. The Rafale deal signed in 2016 is the biggest ever defence deal signed by India. 
 
The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/defence-minister-iaf-chief-to-visit-france-to-receive-first-indian-rafale-fighter-plane-244646">first Rafale Aircraft</a> to be inducted by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh in France will also have the tail number RB-01 written on it in recognition of the role played by the officer in it. 
 
Earlier, Bhadauria visited the National War Memorial to pay his tributes soon after taking charge as the IAF Chief today. 
 
"It is a matter of great honour for me to take over the charge of the IAF, which is one of the finest air forces in the world," he said. 
 
Speaking about the Balakot airstrikes carried out earlier this year by the IAF, Bhadauria said that the force was prepared for action and, "We were prepared then (before the Balakot airstrikes) and many of the acquisitions were part of the plan but we were able to expedite it and we will be ready for any challenges in the future too."&nbsp;

Rafale jets will greatly enhance the capabilities of the Indian Air Force (IAF) and will give the IAF an edge over Pakistan and China, new IAF Chief Air Chief Marshal RKS Bhadauria said on Monday.

Rafale jets will greatly enhance the capabilities of the Indian Air Force (IAF) and will give the IAF an edge over Pakistan and China, new IAF Chief Air Chief Marshal RKS Bhadauria said on Monday. "Rafale is a very capable aircraft, once we induct it, it will be a gamechanger in terms of our operational capability and when we use it in combination with SU-30 and other fleets which we have, we would have a serious jump in our capability. It will give us an edge over Pakistan and China," Bhadauria told ANI soon after taking over as the 26th chief of the force. Incidentally, Bhadauria was the chairman of the Indian negotiation team for the Rs 60,000 crore 36 Rafale combat aircraft deal and played a significant role in getting deal cleared. The Rafale deal signed in 2016 is the biggest ever defence deal signed by India. The first Rafale Aircraft to be inducted by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh in France will also have the tail number RB-01 written on it in recognition of the role played by the officer in it. Earlier, Bhadauria visited the National War Memorial to pay his tributes soon after taking charge as the IAF Chief today. "It is a matter of great honour for me to take over the charge of the IAF, which is one of the finest air forces in the world," he said. Speaking about the Balakot airstrikes carried out earlier this year by the IAF, Bhadauria said that the force was prepared for action and, "We were prepared then (before the Balakot airstrikes) and many of the acquisitions were part of the plan but we were able to expedite it and we will be ready for any challenges in the future too."

Rafale to give India edge over China and Pakistan, says new India Air Force chief Bhadauria

Activists of Baloch National Movement (BNM) on Monday held protests outside 10 Downing Street, the residence of British Prime Minister, to raise the issue of enforced disappearances in Pakistan`s southwestern province of Balochistan.

The activists said that hundreds of Baloch women and children have been abducted by the Pakistan military in Balochistan.

On May 14, Hani Gul Baloch, a student of medicine in Karachi, was abducted along with her fiance, Naseem Baloch. She was kept in military torture cells where she was tormented for three months.

Upon her release, she was expelled by the Hamdard Medical University.

"Pakistan`s intelligence agencies recently adopted a new policy of abducting Baloch women and children to pressurise the Baloch political activists, who are fighting against the injustices committed by the Pakistani military establishment in Balochistan," Hammal Haider Baloch, Foreign spokesperson of BNM said during the protest.

He added, "The situation is becoming worse. Now, we have information that there are more than 100 Baloch women who have been abducted by the Pakistani security forces. They are missing. We have reports that Pakistani intelligence agencies are abducting Baloch women and keeping them in secret torture cells that too in a very grim situation."

The protesters said that they wanted to inform the British Prime Minister`s office regarding the worst human rights situation in Balochistan.

Hakeem Baloch, President of BNM (UK), said in his address, "We wish to make the world aware of the fact that the Pakistani Army is abducting Baloch women. Recently, they abducted women from Awaran, Dera Bugti and Bolan and various other parts of Makran. They are also abducting Baloch women from Karachi. We want to let the world know that they must take action against such inhuman acts of Pakistan."

He added, "Pakistan is losing its power in Balochistan because the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor is not working in Balochistan. And, now to put pressure on the Baloch political activists and their leaders, they are abducting our women. We want the world to understand the problem of Baloch people and support them."

The Baloch activists have further initiated a social media campaign with hashtag #SaveBalochWomen to raise the issue on the global platform. 
&nbsp;

Activists of Baloch National Movement (BNM) on Monday held protests outside 10 Downing Street, the residence of British Prime Minister, to raise the issue of enforced disappearances in Pakistan`s southwestern province of Balochistan.

Activists of Baloch National Movement (BNM) on Monday held protests outside 10 Downing Street, the residence of British Prime Minister, to raise the issue of enforced disappearances in Pakistan`s southwestern province of Balochistan. The activists said that hundreds of Baloch women and children have been abducted by the Pakistan military in Balochistan. On May 14, Hani Gul Baloch, a student of medicine in Karachi, was abducted along with her fiance, Naseem Baloch. She was kept in military torture cells where she was tormented for three months. Upon her release, she was expelled by the Hamdard Medical University. "Pakistan`s intelligence agencies recently adopted a new policy of abducting Baloch women and children to pressurise the Baloch political activists, who are fighting against the injustices committed by the Pakistani military establishment in Balochistan," Hammal Haider Baloch, Foreign spokesperson of BNM said during the protest. He added, "The situation is becoming worse. Now, we have information that there are more than 100 Baloch women who have been abducted by the Pakistani security forces. They are missing. We have reports that Pakistani intelligence agencies are abducting Baloch women and keeping them in secret torture cells that too in a very grim situation." The protesters said that they wanted to inform the British Prime Minister`s office regarding the worst human rights situation in Balochistan. Hakeem Baloch, President of BNM (UK), said in his address, "We wish to make the world aware of the fact that the Pakistani Army is abducting Baloch women. Recently, they abducted women from Awaran, Dera Bugti and Bolan and various other parts of Makran. They are also abducting Baloch women from Karachi. We want to let the world know that they must take action against such inhuman acts of Pakistan." He added, "Pakistan is losing its power in Balochistan because the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor is not working in Balochistan. And, now to put pressure on the Baloch political activists and their leaders, they are abducting our women. We want the world to understand the problem of Baloch people and support them." The Baloch activists have further initiated a social media campaign with hashtag #SaveBalochWomen to raise the issue on the global platform.

Baloch activists hold protest in London against enforced disappearance of women in Balochistan

Is Defence The Bedrock Of Saudi Arabia-Pakistan Ties? Saudi Arabia and Pakistan have shared strong ties for several decades. Pakistan is dependent on Saudi Arabia's financial support for its survival. In turn, Islamabad fights Saudi Arabia's wars in the region. This report explores the longstanding defence ties between the two countries

Gravitas: Saudi Arabia-Pakistan defence ties: An analysis

Three years ago, when suicide terrorists attacked an Army camp at Uri, close to the LoC, they killed 19 soldiers but kindled a flame that spread like a fire. There were terrorist attacks earlier with a higher body count. There were suicide squads that had wreaked havoc before. But somehow this time, it was different. Several high-profile incidents had taken place that year. Suicide attack at Pathankot Air Base in January, biggest hostage situation in six storeyed EDI Building in Pampore in February, Kashmir Valley on the boil after terrorist leader Burhan Wani’s elimination in July. Right timing an audacious military plan backed by bold leadership that not only took ownership, but also converged other instruments of power to multiply the pressure on Pakistan.&nbsp;

Swift retaliation at terrorist launch pads across the line of control (LoC) followed with a stated intent served a twofold purpose. One, India had found space below the nuclear threshold, which we colloquially hear as being said, ‘…called their nuclear bluff’. The second and more importantly, we had now established our stance of dissuasion. For over three decades Pakistan has been waging a proxy war and pushing in terrorists into J&amp;K across the LoC, inter alia. Our response has been largely defensive and restricted to the confines of the LoC. By following the concept of ‘hot pursuit’ we’ve taken the battle to the enemy’s territory, as we would say in military parlance. The doctrine of hot pursuit owes its origin to the law of the seas, at a time when smuggling and piracy were rampant, this customary doctrine emerged to empower a coastal state to pursue on to the high seas a vessel that had violated its laws within its waters.&nbsp;

Over the years, some countries have expanded the doctrine of hot pursuit on land, to justify the breaches of territorial sovereignty of foreign states as part of the ongoing pursuit of offenders. It started in 1986 when South Africa sought to justify its incursions into neighbouring African states against rebels. More recently, it has been employed by the United States regarding Taliban militants crossing into Pakistan or by Turkey regarding its attacks on Kurdistan Workers Party bases in Northern Iraq, also by Colombia regarding its raid on a Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia camp in Ecuador in 2008.

Two years later when a similar high-profile suicide attack at Pulwama caused a larger number of casualties, the whole country expected another bold ‘surgical strike’, as the September retaliation at terrorist launch pads in POK had come to be known. Precise airstrikes were launched within 12 days, striking at the roots of terror far deep inside Pakistan. And like before, we announced to the world and to Pakistan, our intent and purpose. In both cases, India arguably found heartening international support against terrorist endeavours. The world has little patience for terrorism or its sponsors. India had firmly shed the soft-state tag.

Two other unconnected incidents have helped India cement it’s resolve and gain more confidence in initiating strong steps in support of bold decisions taken in the national interest, a veritable departure from the past practices notwithstanding. First, it was our operations against the Northeast insurgents camps in Myanmar, and second, was our standing up to China resolutely to defend the interest of Bhutan in Dolam Plateau in 2017. Is this the new normal? Has India announced a paradigm shift? Have we redrawn our red lines? And statedly so? These strong responses may seem like a one-off raid or strike, but a great deal of preparation and planning goes into it. Planning and execution of the operation itself is not the only facet. Planning and preparation for the possible enemy retaliation and being ready for all scenarios is the larger part. This includes diplomatic fallout as well. Mobilisation of international opinion against terrorism has to be balanced with other elements of state policy as well. Economic or commercial linkages were also leveraged.

India has taken a bold stand. Why must we continue to adopt such a strong response posture? Let us take a look at the emerging situation in Afghanistan. If USA pulls out soon, owing to its domestic compulsions, we may witness a situation like the nineties, with Pakistan in control (or not) of jihadis of different hues. And a there would natural inclination on their part to push them across the LoC, lest they destabilise their territory. It will also serve their agenda of reinvigorating proxy war in Kashmir. While we must prepare ourselves against this scenario, we must also take heart from the fact that India’s preparedness on the line of control today is far better than it was three decades ago. Our troop deployment, as well as weapon &amp; equipment profile, is much more robust now and there is an LC fence in place. However, our biggest card should be this new, bold response posture of taking the battle to enemy territory, if required. Therefore it is in India’s interest that this new dissuasive stand that we have started adopting must continue, the mode and modalities of dissuasion can change, must change actually. 
 
(This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-tackling-terrorism-smartly-2793140">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL) &nbsp;

Three years ago, when suicide terrorists attacked an Army camp at Uri, close to the LoC, they killed 19 soldiers but kindled a flame that spread like a fire. There were terrorist attacks earlier with a higher body count.

Three years ago, when suicide terrorists attacked an Army camp at Uri, close to the LoC, they killed 19 soldiers but kindled a flame that spread like a fire. There were terrorist attacks earlier with a higher body count. There were suicide squads that had wreaked havoc before. But somehow this time, it was different. Several high-profile incidents had taken place that year. Suicide attack at Pathankot Air Base in January, biggest hostage situation in six storeyed EDI Building in Pampore in February, Kashmir Valley on the boil after terrorist leader Burhan Wani’s elimination in July. Right timing an audacious military plan backed by bold leadership that not only took ownership, but also converged other instruments of power to multiply the pressure on Pakistan. Swift retaliation at terrorist launch pads across the line of control (LoC) followed with a stated intent served a twofold purpose. One, India had found space below the nuclear threshold, which we colloquially hear as being said, ‘…called their nuclear bluff’. The second and more importantly, we had now established our stance of dissuasion. For over three decades Pakistan has been waging a proxy war and pushing in terrorists into J&K across the LoC, inter alia. Our response has been largely defensive and restricted to the confines of the LoC. By following the concept of ‘hot pursuit’ we’ve taken the battle to the enemy’s territory, as we would say in military parlance. The doctrine of hot pursuit owes its origin to the law of the seas, at a time when smuggling and piracy were rampant, this customary doctrine emerged to empower a coastal state to pursue on to the high seas a vessel that had violated its laws within its waters. Over the years, some countries have expanded the doctrine of hot pursuit on land, to justify the breaches of territorial sovereignty of foreign states as part of the ongoing pursuit of offenders. It started in 1986 when South Africa sought to justify its incursions into neighbouring African states against rebels. More recently, it has been employed by the United States regarding Taliban militants crossing into Pakistan or by Turkey regarding its attacks on Kurdistan Workers Party bases in Northern Iraq, also by Colombia regarding its raid on a Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia camp in Ecuador in 2008. Two years later when a similar high-profile suicide attack at Pulwama caused a larger number of casualties, the whole country expected another bold ‘surgical strike’, as the September retaliation at terrorist launch pads in POK had come to be known. Precise airstrikes were launched within 12 days, striking at the roots of terror far deep inside Pakistan. And like before, we announced to the world and to Pakistan, our intent and purpose. In both cases, India arguably found heartening international support against terrorist endeavours. The world has little patience for terrorism or its sponsors. India had firmly shed the soft-state tag. Two other unconnected incidents have helped India cement it’s resolve and gain more confidence in initiating strong steps in support of bold decisions taken in the national interest, a veritable departure from the past practices notwithstanding. First, it was our operations against the Northeast insurgents camps in Myanmar, and second, was our standing up to China resolutely to defend the interest of Bhutan in Dolam Plateau in 2017. Is this the new normal? Has India announced a paradigm shift? Have we redrawn our red lines? And statedly so? These strong responses may seem like a one-off raid or strike, but a great deal of preparation and planning goes into it. Planning and execution of the operation itself is not the only facet. Planning and preparation for the possible enemy retaliation and being ready for all scenarios is the larger part. This includes diplomatic fallout as well. Mobilisation of international opinion against terrorism has to be balanced with other elements of state policy as well. Economic or commercial linkages were also leveraged. India has taken a bold stand. Why must we continue to adopt such a strong response posture? Let us take a look at the emerging situation in Afghanistan. If USA pulls out soon, owing to its domestic compulsions, we may witness a situation like the nineties, with Pakistan in control (or not) of jihadis of different hues. And a there would natural inclination on their part to push them across the LoC, lest they destabilise their territory. It will also serve their agenda of reinvigorating proxy war in Kashmir. While we must prepare ourselves against this scenario, we must also take heart from the fact that India’s preparedness on the line of control today is far better than it was three decades ago. Our troop deployment, as well as weapon & equipment profile, is much more robust now and there is an LC fence in place. However, our biggest card should be this new, bold response posture of taking the battle to enemy territory, if required. Therefore it is in India’s interest that this new dissuasive stand that we have started adopting must continue, the mode and modalities of dissuasion can change, must change actually. (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)

India has taken the battle to enemy’s territory through surgical strike

Honour killings have claimed over 70 live in the rural parts of Sindh during the first six months of 2019, according to official figures in the local media.

Official estimates said 78 people were killed between January to June this year in parts of Sindh as part of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-court-reserves-verdict-in-qandeel-baloch-case-verdict-tomorrow-252213">honour killings</a> also known as 'Karo-Kari', leading to registration of 65 cases, reported The Dawn.

Adding that 90 per cent of the cases were pending trial citing various reasons, the official data said an investigation by police into the majority of the cases remain inconclusive.

This comes after Inspector General of Police (IG) Syed Kaleem Imam chaired a meeting to look into the status of investigations into Karo-Kari killings in the region.

Imam had directed the police to prepare a detailed report on a case-to-case basis about the conviction and release of people in connection with Karo-Kari killings across the province.

Besides, he urged officials to ensure no loopholes are left during the probe and the same was adequately pursued before courts.

According to police, Karo-Kari killings, a heinous trend criticised by the authorities as well as human rights organisations, continues unabated as they find it hard to investigate such killings as both aggrieved and accused parties generally belong to the same family or tribe.

Honour killings have claimed over 70 live in the rural parts of Sindh during the first six months of 2019, according to official figures in the local media. Official estimates said 78 people were killed between January to June this year in parts of Sindh as part of honour killings also known as 'Karo-Kari', leading to registration of 65 cases, reported The Dawn.

Honour killings have claimed over 70 live in the rural parts of Sindh during the first six months of 2019, according to official figures in the local media. Official estimates said 78 people were killed between January to June this year in parts of Sindh as part of honour killings also known as 'Karo-Kari', leading to registration of 65 cases, reported The Dawn. Adding that 90 per cent of the cases were pending trial citing various reasons, the official data said an investigation by police into the majority of the cases remain inconclusive. This comes after Inspector General of Police (IG) Syed Kaleem Imam chaired a meeting to look into the status of investigations into Karo-Kari killings in the region. Imam had directed the police to prepare a detailed report on a case-to-case basis about the conviction and release of people in connection with Karo-Kari killings across the province. Besides, he urged officials to ensure no loopholes are left during the probe and the same was adequately pursued before courts. According to police, Karo-Kari killings, a heinous trend criticised by the authorities as well as human rights organisations, continues unabated as they find it hard to investigate such killings as both aggrieved and accused parties generally belong to the same family or tribe.

Pakistan: 'Karo- Kari' killings claim over 70 lives in 6 months in Sindh

Baloch leader Mehran Marri on Saturday slammed Pakistan Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/paksitan-pm-to-visit-earthquake-hit-areas-in-pok-252780">Imran Khan</a> over his recent admittance of the country having had cultivated radical factions in the 1980s, saying that the world can perceive the insincerity of such admittance aimed at changing the country's image at the global stage. 
 
"This is the first time that Pakistan's puppet Prime Minister accepted, on an international forum like the [United Nations] security council, that it harboured and trained terrorists in the 80s and 90s and now it is sorry for what it did. I think everyone can see through that statement. They are just saying this to get the funds from the US in the begging bowl," Marri said. 
 
Khan, in his address, had admitted to Pakistan's role in training jihadists during the late 1980s and 1990s and sustaining contacts with them. 
 
"Khan tried to portray that his country was a champion of Islam. By reciting a few verses, he tried to gain the support of the Islamic world. But I don't think that is the case. Everyone knows the reality of Pakistan and its military leadership and its puppet government," he said. 
 
Marri deemed Khan's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/subramaniam-swamy-calls-imran-khans-unga-address-roadside-speech-252602">speech as another failed attempt</a> by the country to drum up global support over the Kashmir issue. 
 
"It is funny to see that the Pakistani military and its operatives are so anxious about the Kashmir issue that they are operating as an NGO, running across the planet, trying to lobby countries,&nbsp;to talk about the Kashmir issue," Marri said. 
 
"Their incompetence is so visible in the fact that last Friday, they missed the deadline to pass... gather support for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/imran-khan-goofs-up-at-unga-calls-pm-modi-indian-president-252548">U.N. resolution on Kashmir</a>. Obviously they did not have the numbers. But to miss the deadline seems like a high school homework that they missed. Incompetence is so visible in this banana republic," he added. 
 
Pakistan has repeatedly been snubbed on international platforms and countries across the world alike on the Kashmir issue. India has maintained that the abrogation of Article 370 of the constitution that accorded special status to Jammu and Kashmir is its internal matter - a stance which has been supported by several countries, including the SAARC (South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation)&nbsp;nations.

Baloch leader Mehran Marri on Saturday slammed Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan over his recent admittance of the country having had cultivated radical factions in the 1980s, saying that the world can perceive the insincerity of such admittance aimed at changing the country's image at the global stage.

Baloch leader Mehran Marri on Saturday slammed Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan over his recent admittance of the country having had cultivated radical factions in the 1980s, saying that the world can perceive the insincerity of such admittance aimed at changing the country's image at the global stage. "This is the first time that Pakistan's puppet Prime Minister accepted, on an international forum like the [United Nations] security council, that it harboured and trained terrorists in the 80s and 90s and now it is sorry for what it did. I think everyone can see through that statement. They are just saying this to get the funds from the US in the begging bowl," Marri said. Khan, in his address, had admitted to Pakistan's role in training jihadists during the late 1980s and 1990s and sustaining contacts with them. "Khan tried to portray that his country was a champion of Islam. By reciting a few verses, he tried to gain the support of the Islamic world. But I don't think that is the case. Everyone knows the reality of Pakistan and its military leadership and its puppet government," he said. Marri deemed Khan's speech as another failed attempt by the country to drum up global support over the Kashmir issue. "It is funny to see that the Pakistani military and its operatives are so anxious about the Kashmir issue that they are operating as an NGO, running across the planet, trying to lobby countries, to talk about the Kashmir issue," Marri said. "Their incompetence is so visible in the fact that last Friday, they missed the deadline to pass... gather support for U.N. resolution on Kashmir. Obviously they did not have the numbers. But to miss the deadline seems like a high school homework that they missed. Incompetence is so visible in this banana republic," he added. Pakistan has repeatedly been snubbed on international platforms and countries across the world alike on the Kashmir issue. India has maintained that the abrogation of Article 370 of the constitution that accorded special status to Jammu and Kashmir is its internal matter - a stance which has been supported by several countries, including the SAARC (South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation) nations.

World can sense insincerity of Imran Khan's UNGA address, says Baloch leader Mehran Marri

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Saturday departed for Pakistan on a commercial aircraft, after a special jet given to him by the Saudi Arabian government, had developed a technical glitch minutes after taking off from New York airport.

Khan and his entourage left New York at around 2 pm (local time) and are enroute to Jeddah on a Saudi Airlines` flight. The plane is expected to make a technical halt in Jeddah on Sunday at around 8:40 am, The Dawn reported.

After a brief stopover in Jeddah, Khan is expected to reach Pakistan on Sunday evening.

On Friday evening, Khan and his delegation had departed from New York`s John F Kennedy International Airport on the special jet given by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman, during the prime minister`s visit to Saudi Arabia earlier this month.

However, the aircraft turned back and made an emergency landing at the New York airport after a technical glitch developed.

Pakistan`s envoy to the UN, Maleeha Lodhi, who had earlier seen off Khan, rushed back to the airport.

Khan and his entourage waited at the airport for some time as technicians were trying to fix the fault. However, the technicians said that glitch would be rectified by Saturday morning.

Lodhi, meanwhile, had escorted Khan back to the Roosevelt Hotel in the city, where he was staying during his week-long visit to the US for attending the 73rd session of the UN General Assembly (UNGA).

Officials had remarked earlier that if the plane is not fixed by Saturday morning, Khan would take a commercial flight back to Pakistan.

On Friday, Khan had delivered his maiden speech at the UNGA, which exceeded the allotted time limit of around 15 to 20 minutes. In his over half-an-hour speech, Khan continued his anti-India rant over Kashmir, drumming up hysteria over a nuclear war with India.

Hitting back at Khan`s anti-India rhetoric address, India said the Pakistan Prime Minister`s threat of unleashing nuclear devastation qualifies as brinksmanship and not statesmanship.&nbsp;

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Saturday departed for Pakistan on a commercial aircraft, after a special jet given to him by the Saudi Arabian government, had developed a technical glitch minutes after taking off from New York airport.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Saturday departed for Pakistan on a commercial aircraft, after a special jet given to him by the Saudi Arabian government, had developed a technical glitch minutes after taking off from New York airport. Khan and his entourage left New York at around 2 pm (local time) and are enroute to Jeddah on a Saudi Airlines` flight. The plane is expected to make a technical halt in Jeddah on Sunday at around 8:40 am, The Dawn reported. After a brief stopover in Jeddah, Khan is expected to reach Pakistan on Sunday evening. On Friday evening, Khan and his delegation had departed from New York`s John F Kennedy International Airport on the special jet given by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman, during the prime minister`s visit to Saudi Arabia earlier this month. However, the aircraft turned back and made an emergency landing at the New York airport after a technical glitch developed. Pakistan`s envoy to the UN, Maleeha Lodhi, who had earlier seen off Khan, rushed back to the airport. Khan and his entourage waited at the airport for some time as technicians were trying to fix the fault. However, the technicians said that glitch would be rectified by Saturday morning. Lodhi, meanwhile, had escorted Khan back to the Roosevelt Hotel in the city, where he was staying during his week-long visit to the US for attending the 73rd session of the UN General Assembly (UNGA). Officials had remarked earlier that if the plane is not fixed by Saturday morning, Khan would take a commercial flight back to Pakistan. On Friday, Khan had delivered his maiden speech at the UNGA, which exceeded the allotted time limit of around 15 to 20 minutes. In his over half-an-hour speech, Khan continued his anti-India rant over Kashmir, drumming up hysteria over a nuclear war with India. Hitting back at Khan`s anti-India rhetoric address, India said the Pakistan Prime Minister`s threat of unleashing nuclear devastation qualifies as brinksmanship and not statesmanship.

After hours-long delay, Imran Khan departs for Pakistan on commercial aircraft

India's sacthing reply to Pak's rant, says 'Pak PM abused opportunity at UN'. Watch video to know more.

India's scathing reply to Pak's rant, says 'Pak PM abused opportunity at UN'

Team WION analyses the big United Nations faceoff. Watch video to know more.

Team WION analyses the big United Nations faceoff

India replies to Pak PM's criticism at the UNGA. Watch video to know more.

India replies to Pak PM's criticism at the UNGA

Security forces on Saturday shot dead <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-and-kashmir-exchange-of-fire-between-security-forces-and-two-suspected-terrorists-at-batote-252575">three terrorists</a>&nbsp;who were holding hostage a civilian inside a house in Batote town of Ramban district. 
 
The hostage was rescued safely but one Army personnel was killed in the joint operation conducted jointly by the&nbsp;Army, Jammu and Kashmir police and CRPF officials in the Jammu-Srinagar Highway town. 
 
Two Army personnel and one official from the Jammu and Kashmir police also sustained injuries in the encounter with the terrorists, which had been going on since the morning. 
 
"Three terrorists have been killed. The hostage has been rescued. Two police officials sustained bullet injuries and an Army personnel died. Operation is over now. They are the same terrorists who were seen in the morning," Jammu Inspector General of Police (IG) Mukesh Singh told ANI. 
 
Three <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/clear-attempt-at-pandering-to-vote-bank-interests-india-condemns-labour-party-motion-on-kashmir-252103">terrorists</a> entered a house in Batote in the morning while attempting to flee the security forces after engaging in a gunfight with them. 
 
The encounter started after two of three terrorists tried to stop a civilian vehicle at Batote on the National Highway (NH) 244 but the owner did not stop the vehicle and informed the Army Quick Reaction Team (QRT). 
 
The Public Relations Officer (PRO), Defence, Jammu said: "The QRT reacted promptly, established contact with the two individuals and an exchange of fire took place."

Joint parties of Police, Army, and CRPF cordoned the area and exchange of fire ensued during which terrorists took shelter in a house. 
 
"We got the information that terrorists have held a civilian hostage. We attempted to persuade terrorists to surrender. They refused to surrender even though they initially said they would. Their motive was to delay. SSP Ramban gave them a final warning to surrender and later we took action. It was a neat and clean action. Three terrorists have been eliminated and the hostage has been rescued," Deputy Inspector General, CRPF PC Jha said. 
 
Earlier, Army had the information of "possibly" <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistans-bid-to-internationalise-kashmir-fails-world-leans-on-indias-side-252264">five terrorists</a> inside the house where they had taken a local resident hostage. 
 
"One Mr Vijay (also known as Vijay Tailor) is a hostage in the house where the terrorists are holed up. The complex has an electronics shop in the front and house towards the rear. Vijay is the owner. Possibly five terrorists inside the house. They have so far refused to surrender. Exchange of firing is going on," Army said in a statement earlier.

Two AK rifles and one pistol were recovered from the possession of terrorists.

Security forces on Saturday shot dead three terrorists who were holding hostage a civilian inside a house in Batote town of Ramban district. The hostage was rescued safely but one Army personnel was killed in the joint operation conducted jointly by the Army, Jammu and Kashmir police and CRPF officials in the Jammu-Srinagar Highway town.

Security forces on Saturday shot dead three terrorists who were holding hostage a civilian inside a house in Batote town of Ramban district. The hostage was rescued safely but one Army personnel was killed in the joint operation conducted jointly by the Army, Jammu and Kashmir police and CRPF officials in the Jammu-Srinagar Highway town. Two Army personnel and one official from the Jammu and Kashmir police also sustained injuries in the encounter with the terrorists, which had been going on since the morning. "Three terrorists have been killed. The hostage has been rescued. Two police officials sustained bullet injuries and an Army personnel died. Operation is over now. They are the same terrorists who were seen in the morning," Jammu Inspector General of Police (IG) Mukesh Singh told ANI. Three terrorists entered a house in Batote in the morning while attempting to flee the security forces after engaging in a gunfight with them. The encounter started after two of three terrorists tried to stop a civilian vehicle at Batote on the National Highway (NH) 244 but the owner did not stop the vehicle and informed the Army Quick Reaction Team (QRT). The Public Relations Officer (PRO), Defence, Jammu said: "The QRT reacted promptly, established contact with the two individuals and an exchange of fire took place." Joint parties of Police, Army, and CRPF cordoned the area and exchange of fire ensued during which terrorists took shelter in a house. "We got the information that terrorists have held a civilian hostage. We attempted to persuade terrorists to surrender. They refused to surrender even though they initially said they would. Their motive was to delay. SSP Ramban gave them a final warning to surrender and later we took action. It was a neat and clean action. Three terrorists have been eliminated and the hostage has been rescued," Deputy Inspector General, CRPF PC Jha said. Earlier, Army had the information of "possibly" five terrorists inside the house where they had taken a local resident hostage. "One Mr Vijay (also known as Vijay Tailor) is a hostage in the house where the terrorists are holed up. The complex has an electronics shop in the front and house towards the rear. Vijay is the owner. Possibly five terrorists inside the house. They have so far refused to surrender. Exchange of firing is going on," Army said in a statement earlier. Two AK rifles and one pistol were recovered from the possession of terrorists.

Security forces kill three terrorists in Kashmir

India slams China over CPEC

The first secretary to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Maitra holds the official designation of the Deputy Secretary (DS) of the Policy Planning and Research (PP&R) Division. An IFS officer of the 2008 batch, she was awarded the EAM's Ambassador Bimal Sanyal Memorial Prize Gold Medal Best Officer Trainee in 2009.

Who is Vidisha Maitra?

The United States on Friday reiterated that Pakistan should continue taking sustained and verifiable action against terrorist groups operating on its soil to prevent future attacks and promote regional stability in the region in line with its international obligations. 
 
This comes after the U.N. Security Council (UNSC) had approved a request by Pakistan to allow global terrorist Hafiz Saeed to access his bank accounts for 'basic expenses' to help his family. 
 
"Basic exemption requests for U.N.-designated individuals are consistent with every member state's responsibilities regarding the disposition of funds to U.N.-designated individuals residing in their territory," a State Department spokesperson told ANI. 
 
"We continue to encourage all member states to fully abide by and implement their obligations under UN sanctions regimes. This includes submitting basic exemption requests for UN-designated individuals and entities, as needed," the spokesperson said. 
 
However, the spokesperson outlined that all member states are encouraged to take appropriate action to arrest and prosecute terrorists. 
"In line with its international obligations, Pakistan must continue to take sustained and verifiable action against terrorist groups to prevent future attacks and promote regional stability," the spokesperson remarked. 
 
In a letter dated August 15, the U.N. Sanctions Committee said it had received a letter from Pakistan seeking permission to allow Saeed "certain expenditure" from his frozen bank account. The Chair said that the request was approved after "no objection" had been received from any member. 
 
"The chair has the honour to refer to his draft letter to the Islamic Republic of Pakistan communicating the committee's decision with respect to the intention of the Pakistani authorities to authorise certain expenditures to the benefit of Hafiz Muhammad Saeed (QDi.236), Haji Muhammad Ashraf (QDI.265) and Zafar Iqbal (QDI.308) to cover basic expenses, as specified in the note verbale of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan pursuant to paragraph 81 (a) of resolution 2368 (2017)," the letter read. 
 
"The chair wishes to inform the members that no objections were placed by the set dateline of 15 August 2019 at 3:00 p.m. for the consideration of the draft letter. Consequently, the letter is approved, and the chair will instruct the Secretariat to dispatch it," it said. 
 
Pakistan, which has time and again proven to be a safe haven for global terrorists, has based its request by outlining the monthly expenses requirement of Jammat-ud-Dawah (JuD) chief Saeed, who it claims, has to support a family of four. 
 
Being a proscribed terrorist, Saeed is subjected to comprehensive economic and trade sanctions such as arms embargoes, travel bans, and financial or commodity restrictions. 
 
Saeed, who has been designated as global terrorists by the United States, the United Nations, and the European Union, was the mastermind behind the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks that claimed 166 lives.&nbsp;

The United States on Friday reiterated that Pakistan should continue taking sustained and verifiable action against terrorist groups operating on its soil to prevent future attacks and promote regional stability in the region in line with its international obligations.

The United States on Friday reiterated that Pakistan should continue taking sustained and verifiable action against terrorist groups operating on its soil to prevent future attacks and promote regional stability in the region in line with its international obligations. This comes after the U.N. Security Council (UNSC) had approved a request by Pakistan to allow global terrorist Hafiz Saeed to access his bank accounts for 'basic expenses' to help his family. "Basic exemption requests for U.N.-designated individuals are consistent with every member state's responsibilities regarding the disposition of funds to U.N.-designated individuals residing in their territory," a State Department spokesperson told ANI. "We continue to encourage all member states to fully abide by and implement their obligations under UN sanctions regimes. This includes submitting basic exemption requests for UN-designated individuals and entities, as needed," the spokesperson said. However, the spokesperson outlined that all member states are encouraged to take appropriate action to arrest and prosecute terrorists. "In line with its international obligations, Pakistan must continue to take sustained and verifiable action against terrorist groups to prevent future attacks and promote regional stability," the spokesperson remarked. In a letter dated August 15, the U.N. Sanctions Committee said it had received a letter from Pakistan seeking permission to allow Saeed "certain expenditure" from his frozen bank account. The Chair said that the request was approved after "no objection" had been received from any member. "The chair has the honour to refer to his draft letter to the Islamic Republic of Pakistan communicating the committee's decision with respect to the intention of the Pakistani authorities to authorise certain expenditures to the benefit of Hafiz Muhammad Saeed (QDi.236), Haji Muhammad Ashraf (QDI.265) and Zafar Iqbal (QDI.308) to cover basic expenses, as specified in the note verbale of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan pursuant to paragraph 81 (a) of resolution 2368 (2017)," the letter read. "The chair wishes to inform the members that no objections were placed by the set dateline of 15 August 2019 at 3:00 p.m. for the consideration of the draft letter. Consequently, the letter is approved, and the chair will instruct the Secretariat to dispatch it," it said. Pakistan, which has time and again proven to be a safe haven for global terrorists, has based its request by outlining the monthly expenses requirement of Jammat-ud-Dawah (JuD) chief Saeed, who it claims, has to support a family of four. Being a proscribed terrorist, Saeed is subjected to comprehensive economic and trade sanctions such as arms embargoes, travel bans, and financial or commodity restrictions. Saeed, who has been designated as global terrorists by the United States, the United Nations, and the European Union, was the mastermind behind the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks that claimed 166 lives.

Pakistan must take sustained and verifiable action against terrorists: United States

WION USA Direct: Pakistan Misleads the world, again

WION USA Direct: Pakistan Talks Bloodbath at U.N.

Exposing the double standards of Pakistan, the United States has asked Pakistan to express "same level" of concern about Muslims detentions in Western China as they do for Kashmir.

"I would like to see the same level of concern expressed also about Muslims who are being detained in Western China, literally in concentration-like conditions. And so being concerned about the human rights of Muslims does extend more broadly than Kashmir, and you've seen the administration very involved here during the UN General Assembly and trying to shine a light on the horrific conditions that continue to exist for Muslims throughout China," said Alice Wells, US Acting Assistant Secretary for South and Central Asia on Thursday while replying to a question about Pakistan PM's alleged concerns about Kashmir.

<iframe data-google-container-id="5" data-load-complete="true" frameborder="0" height="1" id="google_ads_iframe_/6516239/outofpage_1x1_desktop_0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" name="google_ads_iframe_/6516239/outofpage_1x1_desktop_0" scrolling="no" srcdoc="" title="3rd party ad content" width="1"></iframe>Wells reaction came as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/pakistan-is-desperate-because-its-left-with-no-option-on-jammu-and-kashmir-247611">Pakistan</a> has ramped up its rhetoric against India over the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/removal-of-article-370-heralds-an-era-of-progress-for-jammu-and-kashmir-242889">abrogation of the special status of Jammu and Kashmir</a> and expressing concern over the situation of Muslims in the region.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan even had called himself an ambassador of Kashmiri people.

However, when it comes to China's treatment of Muslims, Pakistan has been mum and when asked to comment on it, the Pakistan PM has tried to brush it aside saying that there is a lot going on in its own country.

China has been condemned internationally for cracking down on the minorities living in their countries.

China has been accused of oppressing the Uighur by sending them to mass detention camps, interfering in their religious activities and sending the community to undergo some form of forceful re-education or indoctrination.

In an exclusive interview to Al Jazeera that was aired on August 14, Imran Khan talked in length about his version of conditions of Kashmiris and how BJP led government is "racist" and "fascist" while shockingly expressing complete ignorance on the issues being faced by Uighur Muslims.

During the interview when journalist Mohammed Jamjoom asked Khan whether he had ever got a chance to discuss the issue of Uighur Muslims with Chinese President Xi Jinping, Khan replied that he does not know "much" about the problem and Beijing is Islamabad's "best friend".

Exposing the double standards of Pakistan, the United States has asked Pakistan to express "same level" of concern about Muslims detentions in Western China as they do for Kashmir.

Exposing the double standards of Pakistan, the United States has asked Pakistan to express "same level" of concern about Muslims detentions in Western China as they do for Kashmir. "I would like to see the same level of concern expressed also about Muslims who are being detained in Western China, literally in concentration-like conditions. And so being concerned about the human rights of Muslims does extend more broadly than Kashmir, and you've seen the administration very involved here during the UN General Assembly and trying to shine a light on the horrific conditions that continue to exist for Muslims throughout China," said Alice Wells, US Acting Assistant Secretary for South and Central Asia on Thursday while replying to a question about Pakistan PM's alleged concerns about Kashmir. Wells reaction came as Pakistan has ramped up its rhetoric against India over the abrogation of the special status of Jammu and Kashmir and expressing concern over the situation of Muslims in the region. Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan even had called himself an ambassador of Kashmiri people. However, when it comes to China's treatment of Muslims, Pakistan has been mum and when asked to comment on it, the Pakistan PM has tried to brush it aside saying that there is a lot going on in its own country. China has been condemned internationally for cracking down on the minorities living in their countries. China has been accused of oppressing the Uighur by sending them to mass detention camps, interfering in their religious activities and sending the community to undergo some form of forceful re-education or indoctrination. In an exclusive interview to Al Jazeera that was aired on August 14, Imran Khan talked in length about his version of conditions of Kashmiris and how BJP led government is "racist" and "fascist" while shockingly expressing complete ignorance on the issues being faced by Uighur Muslims. During the interview when journalist Mohammed Jamjoom asked Khan whether he had ever got a chance to discuss the issue of Uighur Muslims with Chinese President Xi Jinping, Khan replied that he does not know "much" about the problem and Beijing is Islamabad's "best friend".

Pakistan called out by US for staying mum over China's treatment of Muslims

Pak FM Mehmood Qureshi evades WION's questions over terror. Watch video to know more.

Pak FM Mehmood Qureshi evades WION's questions over terror

A plane towing a banner with the message 'U.N must help end human rights abuses in Balochistan' circled the Statue of Liberty in New York , hours before Pakistan's Prime minister Imran Khan's address to the United Nations General Assembly.

The initiative was part of the continuing campaign by human rights campaigners from the World Baloch Organisation (WBO) to highlight the dire human rights situation in Balochistan and attempt to bring international attention to the grave issue.

The mineral-rich restive region in Pakistan has for decades been subjected to Pakistan military's oppressive rule.

The plane flew down the Hudson River along the city's skyline and circled ten times around the Statue of Liberty, the symbol of hope and freedom, grabbing the attention of thousands from the city and on Liberty Island.

The WBO believes the banners will serve as a reminder to world powers in the city to speak up against the dire human rights situation in Balochistan where there is a state-imposed media black-out.

According to the Commission of Inquiry on Enforced Disappearances, an entity established by the Pakistani government, 5000 cases of enforced disappearances have been registered since 2014. Most of them are still unresolved.

Independent local and international human rights organisations have put the numbers much higher.&nbsp;

20,000 people have reportedly been abducted only from Balochistan, out of which more than 2,500 have turned up dead as bullet-riddled dead bodies, bearing signs of extreme torture.

Earlier billboards were also seen in the city carrying messages such as "Baloch Lives Also Matter" and "Justice for Balochistan" in a bid to capture the attention of thousands of people who are in the city to attend the General assembly.

Pakistan`s establishment has been long criticized over its practice of enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings by International bodies and local human rights organisations that dare to speak out on the issue.

Before being elected as Prime Minister, Imran Khan had admitted in multiple TV interviews the involvement of Pakistan`s intelligence agencies in enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings and vowed to resign if he was unable to put an end to the practice, holding those involved responsible.

Families of the abducted victims have long been protesting for the safe recovery of their loved ones in the provincial capital Quetta, and their protest camp has now completed more than 3500 days.

Organisers of the campaign have been engaged in efforts to highlight the worsening human rights situation in Balochistan at international platforms, organising events around Europe and in the United States and focusing on advocacy activities in the European Parliament, the US parliamentary houses, and the United Nations.&nbsp; 
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A plane towing a banner with the message 'U.N must help end human rights abuses in Balochistan' circled the Statue of Liberty in New York , hours before Pakistan's Prime minister Imran Khan's address to the United Nations General Assembly.

A plane towing a banner with the message 'U.N must help end human rights abuses in Balochistan' circled the Statue of Liberty in New York , hours before Pakistan's Prime minister Imran Khan's address to the United Nations General Assembly. The initiative was part of the continuing campaign by human rights campaigners from the World Baloch Organisation (WBO) to highlight the dire human rights situation in Balochistan and attempt to bring international attention to the grave issue. The mineral-rich restive region in Pakistan has for decades been subjected to Pakistan military's oppressive rule. The plane flew down the Hudson River along the city's skyline and circled ten times around the Statue of Liberty, the symbol of hope and freedom, grabbing the attention of thousands from the city and on Liberty Island. The WBO believes the banners will serve as a reminder to world powers in the city to speak up against the dire human rights situation in Balochistan where there is a state-imposed media black-out. According to the Commission of Inquiry on Enforced Disappearances, an entity established by the Pakistani government, 5000 cases of enforced disappearances have been registered since 2014. Most of them are still unresolved. Independent local and international human rights organisations have put the numbers much higher. 20,000 people have reportedly been abducted only from Balochistan, out of which more than 2,500 have turned up dead as bullet-riddled dead bodies, bearing signs of extreme torture. Earlier billboards were also seen in the city carrying messages such as "Baloch Lives Also Matter" and "Justice for Balochistan" in a bid to capture the attention of thousands of people who are in the city to attend the General assembly. Pakistan`s establishment has been long criticized over its practice of enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings by International bodies and local human rights organisations that dare to speak out on the issue. Before being elected as Prime Minister, Imran Khan had admitted in multiple TV interviews the involvement of Pakistan`s intelligence agencies in enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings and vowed to resign if he was unable to put an end to the practice, holding those involved responsible. Families of the abducted victims have long been protesting for the safe recovery of their loved ones in the provincial capital Quetta, and their protest camp has now completed more than 3500 days. Organisers of the campaign have been engaged in efforts to highlight the worsening human rights situation in Balochistan at international platforms, organising events around Europe and in the United States and focusing on advocacy activities in the European Parliament, the US parliamentary houses, and the United Nations.

US: Plane circles Statue of Liberty with message urging UN to help end rights abuses in Balochistan

As Pakistan continues to pursue its one-point agenda to internationalise the Kashmir issue at the UNGA, protesters have thronged the streets of New York against human rights violations in the South Asian country.

WION's diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal reported on trucks stationed in New York, highlighting human rights abuses in Karachi.

"Not just this, across the New York City, there have been banners on human rights violations in Pakistan's Balochistan, Karachi," Sibal said in his ground report from New York.

Meanwhile, Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi evaded questions on Pakistan's support to terror mastermind Hafiz Saeed.

Right outside the venue of SAARC foreign minister's meeting, Sidhant Sibal asked Qureshi why is Pakistan supporting Saaed only to meet with an evading Pak FM.

As Pakistan continues to pursue its one-point agenda to internationalise the Kashmir issue at the UNGA, protesters have thronged the streets of New York against human rights violations in the South Asian country.

As Pakistan continues to pursue its one-point agenda to internationalise the Kashmir issue at the UNGA, protesters have thronged the streets of New York against human rights violations in the South Asian country. WION's diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal reported on trucks stationed in New York, highlighting human rights abuses in Karachi. "Not just this, across the New York City, there have been banners on human rights violations in Pakistan's Balochistan, Karachi," Sibal said in his ground report from New York. Meanwhile, Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi evaded questions on Pakistan's support to terror mastermind Hafiz Saeed. Right outside the venue of SAARC foreign minister's meeting, Sidhant Sibal asked Qureshi why is Pakistan supporting Saaed only to meet with an evading Pak FM.

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