Pakistan Taliban has demanded release of number of prisoners as a pre-condition to ceasefire talks with Pakistani government, Reuters said quoting sources within Pakistan Taliban.&nbsp;

The Pakistani Taliban, also known as Tehrik-i Taliban Pakistan or TTP and separate from the Afghan Taliban, have had two rounds of preliminary talks, facilitated by the Afghan Taliban, a commander based in the Afghan province of Kunar said.

Sirajuddin Haqqani, the head of Haqqani network and current interior minister of Taliban government in Afghanistan is helping the talks

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-supreme-leader-akhundzada-issues-a-warning-against-infiltrators-in-the-ranks-426859">Taliban supreme leader Akhundzada issues a warning against infiltrators in the ranks</a>

The TTP, which combines a number of jihadi and militant groups that have been fighting the government of Pakistan since 2007, is included on the U.S. State Department's list of foreign terrorist organisations.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan told Turkey's TRT television last month that government was in talks with parts of the TTP as part of a "reconciliation process".

The release of the prisoners is meant to be a confidence-building measure, three TTP commanders said, adding that the outcome of the talks was still uncertain.

"We aren't too hopeful of the immediate results of the talks but our leaders had demanded the release of prisoners if they are sincere in meaningful negotiations," a TTP commander told Reuters from Afghanistan's Kunar province.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/womens-rights-activist-and-economics-lecturer-frozan-safi-shot-dead-in-afghanistan-427159">Women’s rights activist and economics lecturer Frozan Safi shot dead in Afghanistan</a>

No comment was available from the Pakistani government. The interior ministry, foreign ministry and the ISPR, the armed forces communications wing, did not respond to emailed requests for comment.

According to negotiators, the two sides agreed not to issue statements either supporting or opposing the peace process or against each other till the accord is signed and made public.

TTP spokesman Muhammad Khurasani said in a text message the group had "never refused meaningful talks" but that there were no developments on the ground yet.

TTP attacks have killed and wounded thousands of civilians and Pakistani service personnel over the years but the group was badly weakened by the Pakistan military's Zarb-e-Azb operation in 2014 which drove it from its stronghold in North Waziristan.

(With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan Taliban has demanded release of number of prisoners as a pre-condition to ceasefire talks with Pakistani government, Reuters said quoting sources within Pakistan Taliban.

Pakistan Taliban has demanded release of number of prisoners as a pre-condition to ceasefire talks with Pakistani government, Reuters said quoting sources within Pakistan Taliban. The Pakistani Taliban, also known as Tehrik-i Taliban Pakistan or TTP and separate from the Afghan Taliban, have had two rounds of preliminary talks, facilitated by the Afghan Taliban, a commander based in the Afghan province of Kunar said. Sirajuddin Haqqani, the head of Haqqani network and current interior minister of Taliban government in Afghanistan is helping the talks Also Read | Taliban supreme leader Akhundzada issues a warning against infiltrators in the ranks The TTP, which combines a number of jihadi and militant groups that have been fighting the government of Pakistan since 2007, is included on the U.S. State Department's list of foreign terrorist organisations. Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan told Turkey's TRT television last month that government was in talks with parts of the TTP as part of a "reconciliation process". The release of the prisoners is meant to be a confidence-building measure, three TTP commanders said, adding that the outcome of the talks was still uncertain. "We aren't too hopeful of the immediate results of the talks but our leaders had demanded the release of prisoners if they are sincere in meaningful negotiations," a TTP commander told Reuters from Afghanistan's Kunar province. Also Read | Women’s rights activist and economics lecturer Frozan Safi shot dead in Afghanistan No comment was available from the Pakistani government. The interior ministry, foreign ministry and the ISPR, the armed forces communications wing, did not respond to emailed requests for comment. According to negotiators, the two sides agreed not to issue statements either supporting or opposing the peace process or against each other till the accord is signed and made public. TTP spokesman Muhammad Khurasani said in a text message the group had "never refused meaningful talks" but that there were no developments on the ground yet. TTP attacks have killed and wounded thousands of civilians and Pakistani service personnel over the years but the group was badly weakened by the Pakistan military's Zarb-e-Azb operation in 2014 which drove it from its stronghold in North Waziristan. (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan Taliban want prisoners released before ceasefire talks

As international donors gather in Geneva on Monday to discuss humanitarian relief for Afghanistan under Taliban rule, neighbours China and Pakistan have already reached out with aid and discussions of future assistance.

The economy in the war-torn country is in crisis and a humanitarian crisis is looming, experts say.

Yet the United States and other Western nations are reluctant to provide the Taliban with funds until the Islamist militant movement provides assurances that it will uphold human rights, and in particular the rights of women.

The country`s roughly $10 billion in foreign assets, held overseas, are also frozen.

"The understandable purpose is to deny these funds to the de facto Taliban administration," Deborah Lyons, the U.N. Secretary General`s special representative for Afghanistan, told the U.N. Security Council this week.&nbsp;

"The inevitable effect, however, will be a severe economic downturn that could throw many more millions into poverty and hunger, may generate a massive wave of refugees from Afghanistan, and indeed set Afghanistan back for generations."

Another possible effect could be to drive Afghanistan closer to its neighbours and close allies Pakistan and China, who have already sent planeloads of supplies to Afghanistan. They have also signalled they are open to ramped-up engagement.

China announced last week it would send $31 million worth of food and health supplies to Afghanistan, among the first foreign aid pledges since the Taliban took power last month.

Pakistan last week sent supplies such as cooking oil and medicine to authorities in Kabul, while the country`s foreign minister called on the international community to provide assistance without conditions and to unfreeze Afghanistan’s assets.

Minerals and Militancy

Pakistan has had deep ties with the Taliban and has been accused of supporting the group as it battled the US-backed government in Kabul for 20 years - charges denied by Islamabad.

China, with a strong alliance with Pakistan, has also been engaging with the Taliban. Some analysts said it was enticed by the country`s mineral wealth, including large reserves of lithium, a key component for electric vehicles.

China has also expressed concern about militancy that could spill over from Afghanistan across its border, which it wants the Taliban administration to help contain.

Beyond humanitarian aid, some experts and officials in the region say China's huge Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) could provide Afghanistan with long-term economic viability.

One possibility is Afghanistan joining the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), a central part of the BRI, under which Beijing has pledged over $60 billion for infrastructure projects in Pakistan, much of it in the form of loans.

"The Taliban would welcome joining CPEC, China would also be very happy," said Rustam Shah Mohmand, Pakistan`s former ambassador to Afghanistan.

China has not made any comment on the BRI but Foreign Minister Wang Yi has said Beijing is ready to actively discuss the resumption of China-Afghanistan freight trains and facilitate

Afghanistan`s interaction with the outside world, especially its access to humanitarian supplies.

Pakistan`s foreign office and a Taliban spokesperson did not immediately respond to request for comment.

Taliban, China Talk — Source

Taliban leaders in recent weeks have said they want good relations with China.

A senior Taliban source said discussions have taken place with China in Doha about possible investment opportunities. China is interested in mining in particular but any activity in the sector will be open to tender, the source said.

"The Taliban welcomes foreign investment that will benefit the country," he said.

Two sources in Afghanistan and Pakistan familiar with the matter said China had been proactively encouraging Afghanistan to join CPEC for years but had been met with a non-committal response from the previous U.S.-backed government.

The Taliban, with a need for economic stimulus and international recognition, seems more keen.

"The best way forward and the immediately available alternative option for Afghanistan`s economic development is CPEC, which includes Pakistan and China," said Mushahid Hussain Sayed, a Pakistani senator and former chairman of the China-Pakistan Institute.

"The new administration in Kabul would also be receptive to this and they are keen on it."

For China, though, which already has mining interests in Afghanistan that have struggled to get off the ground, any further investment would come with risks attached, given the uncertain security situation in the country.

"Absolutely the security and stability of Afghanistan is also of importance to China," said Wang Huiyao, president of the Centre for China and Globalisation, a think-tank.

"But also links to Central Asia and the connectivity through the Belt and Road, it`s all related for the regional stability and prosperity...There`s a stake there for China."

As international donors gather in Geneva on Monday to discuss humanitarian relief for Afghanistan under Taliban rule, neighbours China and Pakistan have already reached out with aid and discussions of future assistance.

As international donors gather in Geneva on Monday to discuss humanitarian relief for Afghanistan under Taliban rule, neighbours China and Pakistan have already reached out with aid and discussions of future assistance. The economy in the war-torn country is in crisis and a humanitarian crisis is looming, experts say. Yet the United States and other Western nations are reluctant to provide the Taliban with funds until the Islamist militant movement provides assurances that it will uphold human rights, and in particular the rights of women. The country`s roughly $10 billion in foreign assets, held overseas, are also frozen. "The understandable purpose is to deny these funds to the de facto Taliban administration," Deborah Lyons, the U.N. Secretary General`s special representative for Afghanistan, told the U.N. Security Council this week. "The inevitable effect, however, will be a severe economic downturn that could throw many more millions into poverty and hunger, may generate a massive wave of refugees from Afghanistan, and indeed set Afghanistan back for generations." Another possible effect could be to drive Afghanistan closer to its neighbours and close allies Pakistan and China, who have already sent planeloads of supplies to Afghanistan. They have also signalled they are open to ramped-up engagement. China announced last week it would send $31 million worth of food and health supplies to Afghanistan, among the first foreign aid pledges since the Taliban took power last month. Pakistan last week sent supplies such as cooking oil and medicine to authorities in Kabul, while the country`s foreign minister called on the international community to provide assistance without conditions and to unfreeze Afghanistan’s assets. Minerals and Militancy Pakistan has had deep ties with the Taliban and has been accused of supporting the group as it battled the US-backed government in Kabul for 20 years - charges denied by Islamabad. China, with a strong alliance with Pakistan, has also been engaging with the Taliban. Some analysts said it was enticed by the country`s mineral wealth, including large reserves of lithium, a key component for electric vehicles. China has also expressed concern about militancy that could spill over from Afghanistan across its border, which it wants the Taliban administration to help contain. Beyond humanitarian aid, some experts and officials in the region say China's huge Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) could provide Afghanistan with long-term economic viability. One possibility is Afghanistan joining the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), a central part of the BRI, under which Beijing has pledged over $60 billion for infrastructure projects in Pakistan, much of it in the form of loans. "The Taliban would welcome joining CPEC, China would also be very happy," said Rustam Shah Mohmand, Pakistan`s former ambassador to Afghanistan. China has not made any comment on the BRI but Foreign Minister Wang Yi has said Beijing is ready to actively discuss the resumption of China-Afghanistan freight trains and facilitate Afghanistan`s interaction with the outside world, especially its access to humanitarian supplies. Pakistan`s foreign office and a Taliban spokesperson did not immediately respond to request for comment. Taliban, China Talk — Source Taliban leaders in recent weeks have said they want good relations with China. A senior Taliban source said discussions have taken place with China in Doha about possible investment opportunities. China is interested in mining in particular but any activity in the sector will be open to tender, the source said. "The Taliban welcomes foreign investment that will benefit the country," he said. Two sources in Afghanistan and Pakistan familiar with the matter said China had been proactively encouraging Afghanistan to join CPEC for years but had been met with a non-committal response from the previous U.S.-backed government. The Taliban, with a need for economic stimulus and international recognition, seems more keen. "The best way forward and the immediately available alternative option for Afghanistan`s economic development is CPEC, which includes Pakistan and China," said Mushahid Hussain Sayed, a Pakistani senator and former chairman of the China-Pakistan Institute. "The new administration in Kabul would also be receptive to this and they are keen on it." For China, though, which already has mining interests in Afghanistan that have struggled to get off the ground, any further investment would come with risks attached, given the uncertain security situation in the country. "Absolutely the security and stability of Afghanistan is also of importance to China," said Wang Huiyao, president of the Centre for China and Globalisation, a think-tank. "But also links to Central Asia and the connectivity through the Belt and Road, it`s all related for the regional stability and prosperity...There`s a stake there for China."

As West ponders aid for Afghanistan, China and Pakistan quick to provide relief

As US troops left <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-completes-military-withdrawal-from-afghanistan-409541">Afghanistan</a> on Tuesday, Pakistan's interior minister Sheikh Rashid Ahmad asserted that the Taliban has assured the Imran government that Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) militants in Afghanistan will not be allowed to carry out attacks on Pakistan.&nbsp;

"Taliban have reassured us that they will not allow TTP to carry out attacks on Pakistan&nbsp;territory. However, the Taliban have had a long-standing animosity with ISIS," Pakistan's interior minister said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/female-journalist-beheshta-arghand-flees-afghanistan-after-tv-interview-with-taliban-leader-409506">Also Read: Female journalist Beheshta Arghand flees Afghanistan after TV interview with Taliban leader</a>

Reports say the TTP has carried out attacks against the Pakistan army as the&nbsp;interior minister said, "TTP may also be present in Kunar and in the mountains of Nuristan."

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="http://13.235.153.162/videos/taliban-tells-afghans-stay-and-live-in-your-homeland-409567/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

At least two Pakistani soldiers were killed on Sunday amid firing from across the border in Afghanistan. The Pakistan army claimed it retaliated killing at least two or three attackers.

Sheikh Rasheed Ahmad said Pakistan expects the Taliban to ensure TTP does not use Afghanistan to launch attacks inside the country.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/watch-taliban-engages-in-celebratory-gunfire-as-us-troops-leave-2-fighters-die-due-to-gunshot-wound-409556">Watch: Taliban engages in celebratory gunfire as US troops leave</a>

Pakistan army spokesman Major General Babar had said earlier that he feared the violence could "spill" into the country even as Taliban's spokesman Zabihullah Muhaid had assured that the militant group won't allow any group to use Afghan soil to launch attacks against anyone.

Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan had claimed earlier that the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/international-community-should-guide-taliban-in-afghanistan-says-china-409436">Taliban</a> had freed its key leaders as it took control of Kabul on August 15.

Prisoners were reportedly freed after Taliban fighters broke into Bagram prison and released inmates.&nbsp;

(With inputs from Agencies)

As US troops left Afghanistan on Tuesday, Pakistan's interior minister Sheikh Rashid Ahmad asserted that the Taliban has assured the Imran government that Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) militants in Afghanistan will not be allowed to carry out attacks on Pakistan.

As US troops left Afghanistan on Tuesday, Pakistan's interior minister Sheikh Rashid Ahmad asserted that the Taliban has assured the Imran government that Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) militants in Afghanistan will not be allowed to carry out attacks on Pakistan. "Taliban have reassured us that they will not allow TTP to carry out attacks on Pakistan territory. However, the Taliban have had a long-standing animosity with ISIS," Pakistan's interior minister said. Also Read: Female journalist Beheshta Arghand flees Afghanistan after TV interview with Taliban leader Reports say the TTP has carried out attacks against the Pakistan army as the interior minister said, "TTP may also be present in Kunar and in the mountains of Nuristan." Watch: At least two Pakistani soldiers were killed on Sunday amid firing from across the border in Afghanistan. The Pakistan army claimed it retaliated killing at least two or three attackers. Sheikh Rasheed Ahmad said Pakistan expects the Taliban to ensure TTP does not use Afghanistan to launch attacks inside the country. Watch: Taliban engages in celebratory gunfire as US troops leave Pakistan army spokesman Major General Babar had said earlier that he feared the violence could "spill" into the country even as Taliban's spokesman Zabihullah Muhaid had assured that the militant group won't allow any group to use Afghan soil to launch attacks against anyone. Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan had claimed earlier that the Taliban had freed its key leaders as it took control of Kabul on August 15. Prisoners were reportedly freed after Taliban fighters broke into Bagram prison and released inmates. (With inputs from Agencies)

Taliban has reassured it won't allow TTP to attack us, says Pak minister

Pakistan’s support for Taliban in Afghanistan would eventually lead to endangering of the security of the war-ravaged nation, former Iranian president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad warned on Tuesday.

“All those who are supporting Taliban should know that if the Taliban settles down and takes power, they would soon revolt against themselves and endanger the security” of Afghanistan, he told WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma in an exclusive interview.

“Anybody in any part of the world who considers themselves as the basis and symbol of the religion and tries to force upon others its will by weapons and arms, is going to be a serious threat and danger to all nations.”

 
Ahmadinejad cautioned both Afghanistan's neighbours, regional nations and extra-regional powers against meddling in the country as US troops complete their withdrawal after 20 years.

The government in Kabul has persistently accused Pakistan of supporting Taliban. Pakistan President Imran Khan, in recent remarks, had defended the insurgent group, saying they are also regular Afghans.

None of the neighbours of Afghanistan—Iran, Pakistan, India, China— or Persian Gulf countries, NATO and Russia- &nbsp;should meddle in Afghanistan’s affairs, Ahmadinejad said.

On the future of Afghanistan, he said the will of the people should prevail.

“People of Afghanistan should elect their representatives. And none of these groups are the representatives of people of Afghanistan.”

Any group that takes weapons, attacks and occupies some parts of the country cannot call themselves the representatives of the nation and be entitled to rights, he said.

“If we accept this logic, then we will be accepting that the entire world would always be unstable , and whoever is more violent, would be dominant. Then rights and laws would be meaningless,” he said.

<o:p></o:p>

<o:p>&nbsp;Part of the interview will air on WION on Tuesday at 3:30 PM GMT.</o:p>

<o:p>&nbsp;</o:p>

Pakistan’s support for Taliban in Afghanistan would eventually lead to endangering of the security of the war-ravaged nation, former Iranian president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad warned on Tuesday.

Pakistan’s support for Taliban in Afghanistan would eventually lead to endangering of the security of the war-ravaged nation, former Iranian president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad warned on Tuesday. “All those who are supporting Taliban should know that if the Taliban settles down and takes power, they would soon revolt against themselves and endanger the security” of Afghanistan, he told WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma in an exclusive interview. “Anybody in any part of the world who considers themselves as the basis and symbol of the religion and tries to force upon others its will by weapons and arms, is going to be a serious threat and danger to all nations.” Ahmadinejad cautioned both Afghanistan's neighbours, regional nations and extra-regional powers against meddling in the country as US troops complete their withdrawal after 20 years. The government in Kabul has persistently accused Pakistan of supporting Taliban. Pakistan President Imran Khan, in recent remarks, had defended the insurgent group, saying they are also regular Afghans. None of the neighbours of Afghanistan—Iran, Pakistan, India, China— or Persian Gulf countries, NATO and Russia- should meddle in Afghanistan’s affairs, Ahmadinejad said. On the future of Afghanistan, he said the will of the people should prevail. “People of Afghanistan should elect their representatives. And none of these groups are the representatives of people of Afghanistan.” Any group that takes weapons, attacks and occupies some parts of the country cannot call themselves the representatives of the nation and be entitled to rights, he said. “If we accept this logic, then we will be accepting that the entire world would always be unstable , and whoever is more violent, would be dominant. Then rights and laws would be meaningless,” he said. Part of the interview will air on WION on Tuesday at 3:30 PM GMT.

Exclusive: Pakistan's support to Taliban will endanger security of Afghanistan, warns former Iran president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad

Taliban said on Wednesday claimed it had captured a key border crossing&nbsp;along the Pakistan frontier with US troops set to pull out&nbsp;completely in a few weeks.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The checkpoint Spin Boldak was reportedly seized by the Taliban, however, the Afghan government said its security forces had repelled the attack.

"The Mujahideen have captured an important border town called Wesh in Kandahar," Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid said in a statement.

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-taliban-executes-22-afghan-commandos-397934/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"With this, the important road between (Spin) Boldak and Chaman and Kandahar customs have come under Mujahideen control," it added.

Taliban had earlier captured areas in Herat, Farah and Kunduz provinces as it continues to make major headway in the country as US and NATO forces leave the country.

President Ashraf Ghani travelled to the northern province of Balkh on Tuesday to assess security and meet civilians.&nbsp;

Taliban had&nbsp;earlier taken control of&nbsp;checkpoints along Turkemenstein and Iran border areas&nbsp;including near Tajikistan as several Afghan soldiers poured into the country as the militant group made rapid inroads.

Taliban had earlier declared that it controls 85 per cent of territory in Afghanistan, however, it was&nbsp;dismissed by the government. Meanwhile, Russia's senior Afghanistan official Zamir Kabulov who is President Putin's special representative on Afghanistan asked the Afghan government to open proper negotiations with the Taliban.

A report in the British media said the UK will work with the Taliban if they become part of the government. The report quoted British defence minister Ben Wallace saying that it will review the relationship if they(Taliban) "behave in a way that is seriously against human rights".

(With inputs from Agencies)

Taliban said on Wednesday claimed it had captured a key border crossing along the Pakistan frontier with US troops set to pull out completely in a few weeks. The checkpoint Spin Boldak was reportedly seized by the Taliban, however, the Afghan government said its security forces had repelled the attack.

Taliban said on Wednesday claimed it had captured a key border crossing along the Pakistan frontier with US troops set to pull out completely in a few weeks. The checkpoint Spin Boldak was reportedly seized by the Taliban, however, the Afghan government said its security forces had repelled the attack. "The Mujahideen have captured an important border town called Wesh in Kandahar," Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid said in a statement. Watch: "With this, the important road between (Spin) Boldak and Chaman and Kandahar customs have come under Mujahideen control," it added. Taliban had earlier captured areas in Herat, Farah and Kunduz provinces as it continues to make major headway in the country as US and NATO forces leave the country. President Ashraf Ghani travelled to the northern province of Balkh on Tuesday to assess security and meet civilians. Taliban had earlier taken control of checkpoints along Turkemenstein and Iran border areas including near Tajikistan as several Afghan soldiers poured into the country as the militant group made rapid inroads. Taliban had earlier declared that it controls 85 per cent of territory in Afghanistan, however, it was dismissed by the government. Meanwhile, Russia's senior Afghanistan official Zamir Kabulov who is President Putin's special representative on Afghanistan asked the Afghan government to open proper negotiations with the Taliban. A report in the British media said the UK will work with the Taliban if they become part of the government. The report quoted British defence minister Ben Wallace saying that it will review the relationship if they(Taliban) "behave in a way that is seriously against human rights". (With inputs from Agencies)

Taliban claim control over key border crossing with Pakistan

Pakistani army has suffered major casualties during an operation against banned terror group Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan or Pakistan Taliban. The incident that happened on Monday saw the Pakistani army suffering 11 casualties includes Captain Abdul Basit from the 28 Baloch Regiment. Basit was on deputation to Thal Scouts of Pak Frontier Corps Wing.

The incident happened in Pakistan's northern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa or KPK province where 6 employees of Pakistan's Jazz Mobile Operator were abducted by a militia operating the region. The exact location is Kurram District of Kohat division of KPK. The Pakistani forces had gone to rescue the abducted employees when the incident happened.

TTP has been behind a number of terror attacks in the country, including the recent bomb explosion near the Serena Hotel in Quetta, a location where the Chinese envoy to Pakistan was staying.

The development comes even as the Afghan Taliban, which is supported by Pakistan has been making territorial gains in Afghanistan. The increased violence level by the Afghan Taliban comes&nbsp;as Americans withdraw from the country after 20 years.

Pakistani army has suffered major casualties during an operation against banned terror group Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan or Pakistan Taliban. The incident that happened on Monday saw the Pakistani army suffering 11 casualties includes Captain Abdul Basit from the 28 Baloch Regiment.

Pakistani army has suffered major casualties during an operation against banned terror group Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan or Pakistan Taliban. The incident that happened on Monday saw the Pakistani army suffering 11 casualties includes Captain Abdul Basit from the 28 Baloch Regiment. Basit was on deputation to Thal Scouts of Pak Frontier Corps Wing. The incident happened in Pakistan's northern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa or KPK province where 6 employees of Pakistan's Jazz Mobile Operator were abducted by a militia operating the region. The exact location is Kurram District of Kohat division of KPK. The Pakistani forces had gone to rescue the abducted employees when the incident happened. TTP has been behind a number of terror attacks in the country, including the recent bomb explosion near the Serena Hotel in Quetta, a location where the Chinese envoy to Pakistan was staying. The development comes even as the Afghan Taliban, which is supported by Pakistan has been making territorial gains in Afghanistan. The increased violence level by the Afghan Taliban comes as Americans withdraw from the country after 20 years.

Pak army suffers major casualties during operation against Pakistan Taliban

Pakistan Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/imran-khan">Imran Khan </a>has vowed to wipe out terror in his country.

This tall promise came shortly after a suicide attack in Balochistan. On Wednesday night, 50 kgs of RDX exploded at a luxury hotel in Quetta.

Watch |&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-chinese-ambassador-was-on-target-in-quetta-blast-379343/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The Serena Hotel in Quetta is located right next to the Iranian consulate and the provincial assembly of Balochistan.

As many as four people were killed and 11 have been injured.&nbsp;The Tehreek-e-Taliban, an offshoot of the Afghan Taliban, claimed responsibility for the attack and Islamabad says their target was the Chinese ambassador to Pakistan.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-deadly-blast-at-luxury-hotel-housing-chinese-ambassador-kills-four-379141">Pakistan: Deadly blast at luxury hotel housing Chinese ambassador kills four</a>

"This incident occurred after Iftar (breaking of fast). The car was parked in the parking lot of the Serena Hotel. The blast killed four people&nbsp;and injured 11. One of our police constables is among the injured," Mir Ziaullah Langove, Balochistan provincial minister, said.&nbsp;

Nong Rong, the Chinese ambassador to Pakistan, was staying at the hotel with four other Chinese delegates.

He was out for a meeting at the time of the explosion.

In Beijing, the Chinese foreign ministry is alarmed and has condemned the attack, promising to firmly support Pakistan's anti-terrorism efforts.

"China strongly condemns the terrorist attack, expresses its condolences to the tragic victims and extends its sympathy to the injured," Wang Wenbin, foreign ministry spokesperson, said. &nbsp;

"China will continue to firmly support Pakistan's counter-terrorism efforts, jointly maintain and promote regional security and stability, and ensure the safety of Chinese personnel and institutions in Pakistan."

In Islamabad, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan said he was saddened by the loss of innocent lives, promising to not let the scourge of terrorism re-emerge.

However, the people of Balochistan will tell you this promise means nothing.&nbsp;The province has seen six decades of insurgency by separatists who want independence from Pakistan. Their objective is to end Islamabad's monopoly and exploitation of the province's mineral resources.

This conflict intensified with the onset of China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) in 2017, which is increasingly turning Balochistan into a Chinese colony.

Billions of dollars are flowing into the regions, thousands of outsiders are getting jobs, but the Baloch people continue to toil in poverty as they are pushed to the margins.

In recent years, they have carried out multiple attacks on Chinese investments.

Three Chinese nationals were injured in a suicide attack near Quetta in 2018.&nbsp;In 2019, gunmen stormed a hotel in the Chinese-run Gwadar seaport, killing five people. And in 2020, Baloch insurgents stormed the Karachi Stock Exchange, in which nine people were killed.&nbsp;

With the latest suicide attack that targeted the Chinese ambassador, it has become absolutely clear that Balochistan is slowly becoming China's Achilles'&nbsp;heel.

It is becoming a big problem for China's mega Belt and Road Initiative and the jewel in its crown, the CPEC.&nbsp;

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has vowed to wipe out terror in his country. This tall promise came shortly after a suicide attack in Balochistan. On Wednesday night, 50 kgs of RDX exploded at a luxury hotel in Quetta.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has vowed to wipe out terror in his country. This tall promise came shortly after a suicide attack in Balochistan. On Wednesday night, 50 kgs of RDX exploded at a luxury hotel in Quetta. Watch | The Serena Hotel in Quetta is located right next to the Iranian consulate and the provincial assembly of Balochistan. As many as four people were killed and 11 have been injured. The Tehreek-e-Taliban, an offshoot of the Afghan Taliban, claimed responsibility for the attack and Islamabad says their target was the Chinese ambassador to Pakistan. Also read | Pakistan: Deadly blast at luxury hotel housing Chinese ambassador kills four "This incident occurred after Iftar (breaking of fast). The car was parked in the parking lot of the Serena Hotel. The blast killed four people and injured 11. One of our police constables is among the injured," Mir Ziaullah Langove, Balochistan provincial minister, said. Nong Rong, the Chinese ambassador to Pakistan, was staying at the hotel with four other Chinese delegates. He was out for a meeting at the time of the explosion. In Beijing, the Chinese foreign ministry is alarmed and has condemned the attack, promising to firmly support Pakistan's anti-terrorism efforts. "China strongly condemns the terrorist attack, expresses its condolences to the tragic victims and extends its sympathy to the injured," Wang Wenbin, foreign ministry spokesperson, said. "China will continue to firmly support Pakistan's counter-terrorism efforts, jointly maintain and promote regional security and stability, and ensure the safety of Chinese personnel and institutions in Pakistan." In Islamabad, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan said he was saddened by the loss of innocent lives, promising to not let the scourge of terrorism re-emerge. However, the people of Balochistan will tell you this promise means nothing. The province has seen six decades of insurgency by separatists who want independence from Pakistan. Their objective is to end Islamabad's monopoly and exploitation of the province's mineral resources. This conflict intensified with the onset of China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) in 2017, which is increasingly turning Balochistan into a Chinese colony. Billions of dollars are flowing into the regions, thousands of outsiders are getting jobs, but the Baloch people continue to toil in poverty as they are pushed to the margins. In recent years, they have carried out multiple attacks on Chinese investments. Three Chinese nationals were injured in a suicide attack near Quetta in 2018. In 2019, gunmen stormed a hotel in the Chinese-run Gwadar seaport, killing five people. And in 2020, Baloch insurgents stormed the Karachi Stock Exchange, in which nine people were killed. With the latest suicide attack that targeted the Chinese ambassador, it has become absolutely clear that Balochistan is slowly becoming China's Achilles' heel. It is becoming a big problem for China's mega Belt and Road Initiative and the jewel in its crown, the CPEC.

Why Quetta blast is a big concern for China's ambitious projects

A controversial tweet allegedly by Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan(TTP)&nbsp;terrorist who had reportedly&nbsp;shot and wounded Nobel laureate Malala Yousafzai in 2012 threatened her in a tweet saying, "We will end what we had started this time around."

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This is the ex-spokesperson of Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan who claims responsibility for the attack on me and many innocent people. He is now threatening people on social media. How did he escape <a href="https://twitter.com/OfficialDGISPR?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@OfficialDGISPR</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/ImranKhanPTI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ImranKhanPTI</a>? <a href="https://t.co/1RDdZaxprs">https://t.co/1RDdZaxprs</a>
— Malala (@Malala) <a href="https://twitter.com/Malala/status/1361671823977570310?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 16, 2021</a></blockquote>
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“Come back to your original home in Swat, we have special unfinished business with you [Malala] and your father. We will end what we had started this time around,”&nbsp;Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan's(TTP)&nbsp;Ehsanullah Ehsan allegedly wrote.

Malala retorted asking the Pakistan government and the military: "This is the ex-spokesperson of Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan who claims responsibility for the attack on me and many innocent people. He is now threatening people on social media. How did he escape?"

However, Dr Arslan Khalid, focal person to PM Imran Khan on digital media&nbsp;said: "It's a fake account and there is zero tolerance for extremism in Pakistan."&nbsp;

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It's a fake account and there is zero tolerance for extremism in Pakistan. Have forwarded this fake account to authorities and Twitter as such miscreants using fake accounts and spreading hate shouldn't be allowed on any social media platform<a href="https://t.co/AYih1pyduV">https://t.co/AYih1pyduV</a>
— Dr Arslan Khalid (@arslankhalid_m) <a href="https://twitter.com/arslankhalid_m/status/1361672634379952130?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 16, 2021</a></blockquote>
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"Have forwarded this fake&nbsp;account to authorities and Twitter as such miscreants using fake accounts and spreading hate shouldn't be allowed on any social media platform," Khalid added.

Twitter moved quickly to permanently suspend the account after the threatening post. Taliban's Ehsanullah Ehsan was arrested in 2017 but had escaped in 2020 from a Pakistan safe house while in the custody of Pakistani intelligence.

The Pakistan-Taliban spokesman has been accused of carrying out the 2014 attack on a Pakistani Army public school in which 134 mostly children were killed.

Ehsan had claimed responsibility for the 2012 shooting of Malala in Swat Valley. A gunman had walked up to Yousafzai on a school bus in which she was travelling, asked her name and then fired three bullets. Malala who was 15 at the time survived the attack and shifted to the UK. Her father, Ziauddin Yousafzai was a teacher in Swat Valley.

Malala who is a strident campaigner for girl's education had recently urged the Boris Johnson government not to cut overseas aid. In a tweet on Tuesday, Malala had reminded UK finance minister Rishi Sunak and PM Johnson of the 0.7 per cent pledge, renewed in last year's Conservative election manifesto, saying: "When you announce spending priorities... I hope you'll deliver on that promise."

Yousafzai had also recently tweeted over the brutal killings of Hazara miners. "I request that PM @ImranKhanPTI meet with the victims' families as soon as possible," &nbsp;she had said.

A controversial tweet allegedly by Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan(TTP) terrorist who had reportedly shot and wounded Nobel laureate Malala Yousafzai in 2012 threatened her in a tweet saying, "We will end what we had started this time around.

A controversial tweet allegedly by Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan(TTP) terrorist who had reportedly shot and wounded Nobel laureate Malala Yousafzai in 2012 threatened her in a tweet saying, "We will end what we had started this time around." This is the ex-spokesperson of Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan who claims responsibility for the attack on me and many innocent people. He is now threatening people on social media. How did he escape @OfficialDGISPR @ImranKhanPTI? https://t.co/1RDdZaxprs — Malala (@Malala) February 16, 2021 × “Come back to your original home in Swat, we have special unfinished business with you [Malala] and your father. We will end what we had started this time around,” Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan's(TTP) Ehsanullah Ehsan allegedly wrote. Malala retorted asking the Pakistan government and the military: "This is the ex-spokesperson of Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan who claims responsibility for the attack on me and many innocent people. He is now threatening people on social media. How did he escape?" However, Dr Arslan Khalid, focal person to PM Imran Khan on digital media said: "It's a fake account and there is zero tolerance for extremism in Pakistan." It's a fake account and there is zero tolerance for extremism in Pakistan. Have forwarded this fake account to authorities and Twitter as such miscreants using fake accounts and spreading hate shouldn't be allowed on any social media platformhttps://t.co/AYih1pyduV — Dr Arslan Khalid (@arslankhalid_m) February 16, 2021 × "Have forwarded this fake account to authorities and Twitter as such miscreants using fake accounts and spreading hate shouldn't be allowed on any social media platform," Khalid added. Twitter moved quickly to permanently suspend the account after the threatening post. Taliban's Ehsanullah Ehsan was arrested in 2017 but had escaped in 2020 from a Pakistan safe house while in the custody of Pakistani intelligence. The Pakistan-Taliban spokesman has been accused of carrying out the 2014 attack on a Pakistani Army public school in which 134 mostly children were killed. Ehsan had claimed responsibility for the 2012 shooting of Malala in Swat Valley. A gunman had walked up to Yousafzai on a school bus in which she was travelling, asked her name and then fired three bullets. Malala who was 15 at the time survived the attack and shifted to the UK. Her father, Ziauddin Yousafzai was a teacher in Swat Valley. Malala who is a strident campaigner for girl's education had recently urged the Boris Johnson government not to cut overseas aid. In a tweet on Tuesday, Malala had reminded UK finance minister Rishi Sunak and PM Johnson of the 0.7 per cent pledge, renewed in last year's Conservative election manifesto, saying: "When you announce spending priorities... I hope you'll deliver on that promise." Yousafzai had also recently tweeted over the brutal killings of Hazara miners. "I request that PM @ImranKhanPTI meet with the victims' families as soon as possible," she had said.

'Zero tolerance for extremism': Fake Taliban Twitter handle targets Malala

Afghan govt has said that Pakistan Taliban had a role in the Helmand attacks and Afghan forces have killed around 200 Pakistani nationals involved in the incident.&nbsp;

Afghan Interior Ministry spokesman Tariq Arian speaking to WION from Kabul said, &nbsp;"The Helmand attacks, planned by the Taliban, more than 200 Pakistani Taliban had participated in it and our Afghan National Defense and Security Forces (ANDSF) killed all the Taliban. This includes the Pakistani Taliban."

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-strongly-rejects-claims-of-its-territory-being-used-for-terror-acts-against-pakistan-343314">Afghanistan 'strongly' rejects claims of its territory being used for terror acts against Pakistan</a>

Helmand province in southern Afghanistan has a major uptick in violence in the last few weeks. The violence comes even as the US plans to withdraw from the country by Christmas, sparking concerns of Pakistan increasing its foothold in the country.&nbsp;

He highlighted that the Afghan and Pakistan Taliban has cooperation and "they had planned to attack ANDSF near the city of Helmand and district of Kandahar."&nbsp;

Adding, "It was a success for our forces and we have shared the list of Taliban commanders, including Pakistani Taliban. More than 300 Pakistani Taliban had participated in this. Our ANDSF had success in other provinces like Kunduz. "

He pointed out that in other provinces of Afghanistan, like Kandahar, "Taliban had planned attacks on ANDSF and response by us saw the killing of the Taliban, and they had casualties."

Taliban and the Afghan government are in talks in Doha, which are leading nowhere. &nbsp;This year saw 2 important pacts, the Taliban and US govt pact in February, and in September start of talks in Doha. Despite the signing of a pact, and the start of talks, the Taliban is unwilling to reduce violence in the country.&nbsp;

Afghan govt has said that Pakistan Taliban had a role in the Helmand attacks and Afghan forces have killed around 200 Pakistani nationals involved in the incident.

Afghan govt has said that Pakistan Taliban had a role in the Helmand attacks and Afghan forces have killed around 200 Pakistani nationals involved in the incident. Afghan Interior Ministry spokesman Tariq Arian speaking to WION from Kabul said, "The Helmand attacks, planned by the Taliban, more than 200 Pakistani Taliban had participated in it and our Afghan National Defense and Security Forces (ANDSF) killed all the Taliban. This includes the Pakistani Taliban." Also read | Afghanistan 'strongly' rejects claims of its territory being used for terror acts against Pakistan Helmand province in southern Afghanistan has a major uptick in violence in the last few weeks. The violence comes even as the US plans to withdraw from the country by Christmas, sparking concerns of Pakistan increasing its foothold in the country. He highlighted that the Afghan and Pakistan Taliban has cooperation and "they had planned to attack ANDSF near the city of Helmand and district of Kandahar." Adding, "It was a success for our forces and we have shared the list of Taliban commanders, including Pakistani Taliban. More than 300 Pakistani Taliban had participated in this. Our ANDSF had success in other provinces like Kunduz. " He pointed out that in other provinces of Afghanistan, like Kandahar, "Taliban had planned attacks on ANDSF and response by us saw the killing of the Taliban, and they had casualties." Taliban and the Afghan government are in talks in Doha, which are leading nowhere. This year saw 2 important pacts, the Taliban and US govt pact in February, and in September start of talks in Doha. Despite the signing of a pact, and the start of talks, the Taliban is unwilling to reduce violence in the country.

Pakistani Taliban was involved in Helmand attacks: Afghan Interior Minister spokesperson to WION

Former Pakistani Taliban spokesperson Ehsanullah Ehsan has said Pakistani authorities had given him a hit list of people who they would like to be killed in the north-western province of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

He, in the audio that is in the possession of WION, claimed that after some time of his surrender he was given the list of prominent voices in order to facilitate the Pakistani state in eliminating rogue elements.

According to the audio Eshan said, "I was asked to lead a death squad.. and the list included people from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and they were Pashtuns from all walks of life including Journalists".&nbsp;

(Mujhe Kaha gaya ki ap ik death squad ko lead karein..aur ap gadaron aur mulk key dushmanon key khilaf kam shuru karey..Jo list muje diya gaya usmai zyada tar afrad ka taluk Khyber Pakhtunkhwa se tha aur woh sab pashtun they jis mai zindgi key har shobey se talku rakhney waley afrad key name they, jin mai pashtun safee afrad key name bhi shamil thei)

In the audio, he talked about his conversations with military intelligence and the parleys that took place.&nbsp;

Ehsanullah Ehsan, spokesman Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) had escaped Pakistani custody earlier this year. Ehsan as spokesperson claimed the group was responsible for shooting Malala Yousafzai, 2014 Wagah border suicide attack and other terror attacks in the South Asian country.

The development comes even as more than 30 women journalists in Pakistan have in a joint statement highlighted the "vicious attacks" on them through social media.&nbsp;

The statement said: "The online attacks are instigated by government officials and then amplified by a large number of Twitter accounts, which declare their affiliation to the ruling party."&nbsp;

The statement demands, "hold all such individuals within the government accountable and take action against them" and Standing Committees on Human Rights of the upper and lower house of parliament to take notice of these developments.

Women journalists include Benazir Shah, Amber Shamsi, Munizae Jahangir, Gul Bukhari, Gulalai Ismail.&nbsp;

Last year saw the killing of Arooj Iqbal, a 27-year-old women journalist who was shot dead in Lahore. While the main suspect is her husband, Arooj's family told RSF Reporters Without Borders that, "Arooj was clearly targeted because of her journalism work".

Pakistan is ranked 145th out of 180 countries and territories in RSF's 2020 World Press Freedom Index.

Former Pakistani Taliban spokesperson Ehsanullah Ehsan has said Pakistani authorities had given him a hit list of people who they would like to be killed in the north-western province of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

Former Pakistani Taliban spokesperson Ehsanullah Ehsan has said Pakistani authorities had given him a hit list of people who they would like to be killed in the north-western province of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. He, in the audio that is in the possession of WION, claimed that after some time of his surrender he was given the list of prominent voices in order to facilitate the Pakistani state in eliminating rogue elements. According to the audio Eshan said, "I was asked to lead a death squad.. and the list included people from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and they were Pashtuns from all walks of life including Journalists". (Mujhe Kaha gaya ki ap ik death squad ko lead karein..aur ap gadaron aur mulk key dushmanon key khilaf kam shuru karey..Jo list muje diya gaya usmai zyada tar afrad ka taluk Khyber Pakhtunkhwa se tha aur woh sab pashtun they jis mai zindgi key har shobey se talku rakhney waley afrad key name they, jin mai pashtun safee afrad key name bhi shamil thei) In the audio, he talked about his conversations with military intelligence and the parleys that took place. Ehsanullah Ehsan, spokesman Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) had escaped Pakistani custody earlier this year. Ehsan as spokesperson claimed the group was responsible for shooting Malala Yousafzai, 2014 Wagah border suicide attack and other terror attacks in the South Asian country. The development comes even as more than 30 women journalists in Pakistan have in a joint statement highlighted the "vicious attacks" on them through social media. The statement said: "The online attacks are instigated by government officials and then amplified by a large number of Twitter accounts, which declare their affiliation to the ruling party." The statement demands, "hold all such individuals within the government accountable and take action against them" and Standing Committees on Human Rights of the upper and lower house of parliament to take notice of these developments. Women journalists include Benazir Shah, Amber Shamsi, Munizae Jahangir, Gul Bukhari, Gulalai Ismail. Last year saw the killing of Arooj Iqbal, a 27-year-old women journalist who was shot dead in Lahore. While the main suspect is her husband, Arooj's family told RSF Reporters Without Borders that, "Arooj was clearly targeted because of her journalism work". Pakistan is ranked 145th out of 180 countries and territories in RSF's 2020 World Press Freedom Index.

Pak state asked me to lead death squad, says ex-Pak Taliban spokesman Ehsanullah Ehsan

The United Nations has designated Pakistan Taliban's leader Noor Wali Mehsud as a global terrorist for participating in the financing, planning and perpetrating acts on behalf of and in support of entities associated with al-Qaida and ISIS.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-denies-unfreezing-of-hafiz-saeed-five-other-terrorists-bank-accounts-313103#:~:text=Pakistan%20said%20on%20Monday%20that,Saeed's%20account%20has%20been%20restored.">Also read: Pakistan denies unfreezing of Hafiz Saeed, five other terrorists' bank accounts</a> 
 
The UN Security Council's 1267 ISIL and Al-Qaida Sanctions Committee added Mehsud, 42, to the ISIL (Da'esh) and Al-Qaida Sanctions List on Thursday, subjecting the Pakistani national to an assets freeze, travel ban and arms embargo. 
 
Meanhwile, the US welcomed the development saying theat the TTP was responsible for many deadly terrorist attacks in Pakistan.&nbsp;

The United States Department of South and Central Asian Affairs (SCA) has tweeted that "Welcome news that the @UN has added Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan leader Noor Wali Mehsud to its ISIL &amp; AQ sanctions list. TTP is responsible for many deadly terrorist attacks in Pakistan. The United States domestically designated Noor Wali as a terrorist in September 2019.

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Welcome news that the <a href="https://twitter.com/UN?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@UN</a> has added Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan leader Noor Wali Mehsud to its ISIL &amp; AQ sanctions list. TTP is responsible for many deadly terrorist attacks in Pakistan. The United States domestically designated Noor Wali as a terrorist in September 2019.
— State_SCA (@State_SCA) <a href="https://twitter.com/State_SCA/status/1283893734518685697?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 16, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The Sanctions Committee said that Mehsud was listed for participating in the financing, planning, facilitating or perpetrating of acts or activities by, in conjunction with, under the name of, on behalf of, or in support of entities associated with al-Qaida. 
 
In June 2018, Mehsud was named the leader of Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan, following the death of former TTP leader Maulana Fazlullah.

The TTP was blacklisted by the UN on July 29, 2011, for its association with al-Qaida.

Blacklisting by the Security Council entails that all states are required to freeze without delay the funds and other financial assets or economic resources of designated individuals and entities.

They are also required to prevent the entry into or transit through their territories by the designated individuals and prevent the direct or indirect supply, sale and transfer from their territories or by their nationals outside their territories, or using their flag vessels or aircraft, of arms and related materiel of all types, spare parts, and technical advice, assistance, or training related to military activities, to designated individuals and entities.

(With inputs from agencies)

The United Nations has designated Pakistan Taliban's leader Noor Wali Mehsud as a global terrorist for participating in the financing, planning and perpetrating acts on behalf of and in support of entities associated with al-Qaida and ISIS.

The United Nations has designated Pakistan Taliban's leader Noor Wali Mehsud as a global terrorist for participating in the financing, planning and perpetrating acts on behalf of and in support of entities associated with al-Qaida and ISIS. Also read: Pakistan denies unfreezing of Hafiz Saeed, five other terrorists' bank accounts The UN Security Council's 1267 ISIL and Al-Qaida Sanctions Committee added Mehsud, 42, to the ISIL (Da'esh) and Al-Qaida Sanctions List on Thursday, subjecting the Pakistani national to an assets freeze, travel ban and arms embargo. Meanhwile, the US welcomed the development saying theat the TTP was responsible for many deadly terrorist attacks in Pakistan. The United States Department of South and Central Asian Affairs (SCA) has tweeted that "Welcome news that the @UN has added Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan leader Noor Wali Mehsud to its ISIL & AQ sanctions list. TTP is responsible for many deadly terrorist attacks in Pakistan. The United States domestically designated Noor Wali as a terrorist in September 2019. Welcome news that the @UN has added Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan leader Noor Wali Mehsud to its ISIL & AQ sanctions list. TTP is responsible for many deadly terrorist attacks in Pakistan. The United States domestically designated Noor Wali as a terrorist in September 2019. — State_SCA (@State_SCA) July 16, 2020 × The Sanctions Committee said that Mehsud was listed for participating in the financing, planning, facilitating or perpetrating of acts or activities by, in conjunction with, under the name of, on behalf of, or in support of entities associated with al-Qaida. In June 2018, Mehsud was named the leader of Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan, following the death of former TTP leader Maulana Fazlullah. The TTP was blacklisted by the UN on July 29, 2011, for its association with al-Qaida. Blacklisting by the Security Council entails that all states are required to freeze without delay the funds and other financial assets or economic resources of designated individuals and entities. They are also required to prevent the entry into or transit through their territories by the designated individuals and prevent the direct or indirect supply, sale and transfer from their territories or by their nationals outside their territories, or using their flag vessels or aircraft, of arms and related materiel of all types, spare parts, and technical advice, assistance, or training related to military activities, to designated individuals and entities. (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan Taliban’s group leader Noor Wali Mehsud designated as global terrorist by United Nations

A Pakistani religious teacher who spent six months with "American Taliban" John Walker Lindh has hailed his release, describing him as a "good person" who became upset over the situation in Afghanistan, Kashmir and Palestine.

Lindh symbolised betrayal for the US when he was captured, bearded and dishevelled while fighting for the Taliban in the Afghan city of Mazar-i-Sharif in 2001.

His release from prison on Thursday -- three years before the end of his 20-year sentence -- has reawakened memories of the September 11 attacks and underscored the tragedy of the US invasion of Afghanistan, where civilians are paying a deadly price as the war grinds on.

President Donald Trump said he was upset about the release, but government lawyers had told him there was no legal way to keep him in prison.

"We'll be watching him and watching him closely," Trump told reporters.

But Mohammad Iltimas, who taught Lindh for six months at a Muslim school near the Afghan border in Pakistan's northwest, said he was happy to hear of the decision to release him.

"He was such a pure person, such a positive-thinking man," Iltimas told AFP.

Iltimas said Lindh came to his school -- the Madrassa Arabia Hussania, outside the city of Bannu -- in December 2000, and stayed until May or April of the next year.&nbsp;

"He wanted to memorise the Koran," he said, describing how Lindh could often be seen listening to Koranic verses on a tape recorder or learning Pashto.

"He was such a good student, pious and focused on his studies, I never saw him sitting idle. He was not interested in sports. He was such a serious and committed person to his cause."

Lindh was "upset over the situation in Afghanistan, Kashmir and Palestine", said Iltimas.&nbsp;

At the time, the Taliban regime which controlled most of Afghanistan was engaged in a bloody fight with the rebellious Northern Alliance.

Soon the madrassa student enlisted in the Taliban's ranks.

After the United States intervened in Afghanistan following the September 11, 2001 attacks, Lindh was one of the hundreds of Taliban fighters captured by Northern Alliance forces on November 25.

He revealed his American identity to two CIA officers in the city of Mazar-i-Sharif.&nbsp;

One of them, Johnny Micheal Spann, was killed in a prisoner revolt hours after he interrogated Lindh, making him the first American killed in the post-9/11 conflict in Afghanistan.

'Too brave or too stupid'

Mazar residents who remembered Lindh described to AFP their shock on hearing that an American had been captured fighting for the Islamist militants.

"People were asking how is that possible," recalled 40-year-old resident Khayber Ibrahimi.

"I think he must have been too brave or too stupid to have gone with the Taliban," he told AFP.

In July 2002 plea deal, Lindh admitted charges of illegally aiding the Taliban and carrying weapons and explosives.

By most accounts, he clung firmly to his faith throughout his imprisonment.

An internal 2017 report from the US National Counterterrorism Center, obtained by the Foreign Policy website, said that Lindh "continued to advocate for global jihad and to write and translate violent extremist texts".

The claim was not supported by public evidence.&nbsp;

Iltimas told AFP that Lindh had written him from prison, although AFP was unable to immediately verify the claim.&nbsp;

When Lindh left for Afghanistan, Iltimas said, he left some of his possessions behind at the madrassa, claiming he would return.

"I still have that stuff -- his briefcase, books, shoes, clothes, notebooks," Iltimas told AFP.

"People at the time used to ask me if I had changed him into a jihadi," he said.

"I always replied to them that I turned him to education, and changed him as a scholar."

Now 38, Lindh will settle in Virginia under strict probation terms that limit his ability to go online or contact any other Islamists.

In Afghanistan, where he was captured, the Taliban are once again resurgent, Afghan civilians desperate for peace, and the US eager to escape what has become the longest war in its history.

A Pakistani religious teacher who spent six months with "American Taliban" John Walker Lindh has hailed his release, describing him as a "good person" who became upset over the situation in Afghanistan, Kashmir and Palestine.

A Pakistani religious teacher who spent six months with "American Taliban" John Walker Lindh has hailed his release, describing him as a "good person" who became upset over the situation in Afghanistan, Kashmir and Palestine. Lindh symbolised betrayal for the US when he was captured, bearded and dishevelled while fighting for the Taliban in the Afghan city of Mazar-i-Sharif in 2001. His release from prison on Thursday -- three years before the end of his 20-year sentence -- has reawakened memories of the September 11 attacks and underscored the tragedy of the US invasion of Afghanistan, where civilians are paying a deadly price as the war grinds on. President Donald Trump said he was upset about the release, but government lawyers had told him there was no legal way to keep him in prison. "We'll be watching him and watching him closely," Trump told reporters. But Mohammad Iltimas, who taught Lindh for six months at a Muslim school near the Afghan border in Pakistan's northwest, said he was happy to hear of the decision to release him. "He was such a pure person, such a positive-thinking man," Iltimas told AFP. Iltimas said Lindh came to his school -- the Madrassa Arabia Hussania, outside the city of Bannu -- in December 2000, and stayed until May or April of the next year. "He wanted to memorise the Koran," he said, describing how Lindh could often be seen listening to Koranic verses on a tape recorder or learning Pashto. "He was such a good student, pious and focused on his studies, I never saw him sitting idle. He was not interested in sports. He was such a serious and committed person to his cause." Lindh was "upset over the situation in Afghanistan, Kashmir and Palestine", said Iltimas. At the time, the Taliban regime which controlled most of Afghanistan was engaged in a bloody fight with the rebellious Northern Alliance. Soon the madrassa student enlisted in the Taliban's ranks. After the United States intervened in Afghanistan following the September 11, 2001 attacks, Lindh was one of the hundreds of Taliban fighters captured by Northern Alliance forces on November 25. He revealed his American identity to two CIA officers in the city of Mazar-i-Sharif. One of them, Johnny Micheal Spann, was killed in a prisoner revolt hours after he interrogated Lindh, making him the first American killed in the post-9/11 conflict in Afghanistan. 'Too brave or too stupid' Mazar residents who remembered Lindh described to AFP their shock on hearing that an American had been captured fighting for the Islamist militants. "People were asking how is that possible," recalled 40-year-old resident Khayber Ibrahimi. "I think he must have been too brave or too stupid to have gone with the Taliban," he told AFP. In July 2002 plea deal, Lindh admitted charges of illegally aiding the Taliban and carrying weapons and explosives. By most accounts, he clung firmly to his faith throughout his imprisonment. An internal 2017 report from the US National Counterterrorism Center, obtained by the Foreign Policy website, said that Lindh "continued to advocate for global jihad and to write and translate violent extremist texts". The claim was not supported by public evidence. Iltimas told AFP that Lindh had written him from prison, although AFP was unable to immediately verify the claim. When Lindh left for Afghanistan, Iltimas said, he left some of his possessions behind at the madrassa, claiming he would return. "I still have that stuff -- his briefcase, books, shoes, clothes, notebooks," Iltimas told AFP. "People at the time used to ask me if I had changed him into a jihadi," he said. "I always replied to them that I turned him to education, and changed him as a scholar." Now 38, Lindh will settle in Virginia under strict probation terms that limit his ability to go online or contact any other Islamists. In Afghanistan, where he was captured, the Taliban are once again resurgent, Afghan civilians desperate for peace, and the US eager to escape what has become the longest war in its history.

Pakistani who taught 'American Taliban' hails his release

Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi, who arrived Kuwait on Saturday, will discuss bilateral relations, including visa issues, during a series of meetings with his Kuwaiti counterpart and other top leaders, Foreign office said here.&nbsp;

The tension between Iran and the US, talks with Taliban and regional security situation will also be discussed during Qureshi's two-day visit to the oil-rich nation.

Earlier, before his departure, Qureshi told media that he was carrying a special letter of Prime Minister Imran Khan for the Emir of Kuwait.

He expressed confidence that his visit will help to further strengthen relations between the two nations.

Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi, who arrived Kuwait on Saturday, will discuss bilateral relations, including visa issues, during a series of meetings with his Kuwaiti counterpart and other top leaders, Foreign office said here.

Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi, who arrived Kuwait on Saturday, will discuss bilateral relations, including visa issues, during a series of meetings with his Kuwaiti counterpart and other top leaders, Foreign office said here. The tension between Iran and the US, talks with Taliban and regional security situation will also be discussed during Qureshi's two-day visit to the oil-rich nation. Earlier, before his departure, Qureshi told media that he was carrying a special letter of Prime Minister Imran Khan for the Emir of Kuwait. He expressed confidence that his visit will help to further strengthen relations between the two nations.

Pakistan foreign minister to discuss bilateral ties, visa issues with Kuwaiti leaders

Tehrik-i Taliban Pakistan (TTP), the Pakistani Taliban, claimed responsibility for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/blast-in-pakistani-city-quetta-kills-four-police-officials-218489">Pakistan's Quetta blast</a> in which four policemen were killed.

An improvised bomb rigged to a motorcycle exploded near a mosque yesterday injuring at least eleven people injured including two policemen.

According to a report, Tehrik-i Taliban Pakistan claimed responsibility in an emailed statement.

The attack came two days after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/five-dead-in-pakistan-luxury-hotel-attack-military-218136">Baloch separatists attacked a luxury hotel</a> in the province's second city, Gwadar, where development of a port is the flagship project of a multi-billion dollar Chinese infrastructure initiative in Pakistan.

Five people including a soldier died in the hotel attack, which also left all three terrorists dead.

The violence came during the Muslim holy fasting month of Ramadan.&nbsp;

Balochistan, Pakistan's largest and poorest province which borders Afghanistan and Iran, is rife with Islamist, separatist and sectarian insurgencies.&nbsp;

The Pakistani military has been waging war on militants there since 2004, and security forces are frequently targeted.

Rights activists accuse the military of abuses, which it denies.

Balochistan is key to the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), part of Beijing's Belt and Road initiative.&nbsp;

CPEC seeks to connect China's western province of Xinjiang with Gwadar, giving Beijing access to the Arabian Sea.

(With inputs from news agencies)

Tehrik-i Taliban Pakistan (TTP), the Pakistani Taliban, claimed responsibility for Pakistan's Quetta blast in which four policemen were killed. An improvised bomb rigged to a motorcycle exploded near a mosque yesterday injuring at least eleven people injured including two policemen.

Tehrik-i Taliban Pakistan (TTP), the Pakistani Taliban, claimed responsibility for Pakistan's Quetta blast in which four policemen were killed. An improvised bomb rigged to a motorcycle exploded near a mosque yesterday injuring at least eleven people injured including two policemen. According to a report, Tehrik-i Taliban Pakistan claimed responsibility in an emailed statement. The attack came two days after Baloch separatists attacked a luxury hotel in the province's second city, Gwadar, where development of a port is the flagship project of a multi-billion dollar Chinese infrastructure initiative in Pakistan. Five people including a soldier died in the hotel attack, which also left all three terrorists dead. The violence came during the Muslim holy fasting month of Ramadan. Balochistan, Pakistan's largest and poorest province which borders Afghanistan and Iran, is rife with Islamist, separatist and sectarian insurgencies. The Pakistani military has been waging war on militants there since 2004, and security forces are frequently targeted. Rights activists accuse the military of abuses, which it denies. Balochistan is key to the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), part of Beijing's Belt and Road initiative. CPEC seeks to connect China's western province of Xinjiang with Gwadar, giving Beijing access to the Arabian Sea. (With inputs from news agencies)

Pakistan Taliban claims responsibility for Quetta blast

A Pakistan Taliban faction claimed responsibility for the attack on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-blast-near-elite-police-vehicle-in-lahore-2-dead-19-injured-216892">Pakistan's elite police force</a> in Lahore which took place near a Sufi shrine at Data Darbar on Wednesday.

"This attack was carried out at a time when there were no civilians near the police," said Abdul Aziz Yousafzai, spokesman for the Hizbul Ahrar terrorist&nbsp;group, a faction of the Pakistani Taliban.

At least nine people were killed in the blast with several critically injured. Authorities said up to 24 people were wounded in the attack.

"Police was the prime target in this attack. We are collecting forensic evidence to ascertain the nature of the blast. This attack has left nine dead and 24 injured," said Ashfaq Khan, deputy inspector general of police operations in Lahore.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pakistan-5-dead-after-blast-near-major-sufi-shrine-in-lahore-216949/embed" width="560" height="350" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" autoplay=1 allowfullscreen></iframe></div>

The area hosts the largest Sufi shrine in South Asia which had come under attack in 2010 leading to the death of&nbsp;40 people. Police have said they were&nbsp;still investigating the nature of the blast. However, sources have told WION that all indicators point towards a suicide explosion.

Three police officials, a security guard and a civilian were killed were among those killed in the attack, police said.

The blast may have been "a suicide attack" on a security vehicle, police official Muhammad Kashif was quoted as saying to AFP.

The Data Darbar complex contains the shrine of Saint Syed Ali bin Osman Al-Hajvery, popularly known as Data Ganj Bakhsh.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

A Pakistan Taliban faction claimed responsibility for the attack on Pakistan's elite police force in Lahore which took place near a Sufi shrine at Data Darbar on Wednesday.

A Pakistan Taliban faction claimed responsibility for the attack on Pakistan's elite police force in Lahore which took place near a Sufi shrine at Data Darbar on Wednesday. "This attack was carried out at a time when there were no civilians near the police," said Abdul Aziz Yousafzai, spokesman for the Hizbul Ahrar terrorist group, a faction of the Pakistani Taliban. At least nine people were killed in the blast with several critically injured. Authorities said up to 24 people were wounded in the attack. "Police was the prime target in this attack. We are collecting forensic evidence to ascertain the nature of the blast. This attack has left nine dead and 24 injured," said Ashfaq Khan, deputy inspector general of police operations in Lahore. The area hosts the largest Sufi shrine in South Asia which had come under attack in 2010 leading to the death of 40 people. Police have said they were still investigating the nature of the blast. However, sources have told WION that all indicators point towards a suicide explosion. Three police officials, a security guard and a civilian were killed were among those killed in the attack, police said. The blast may have been "a suicide attack" on a security vehicle, police official Muhammad Kashif was quoted as saying to AFP. The Data Darbar complex contains the shrine of Saint Syed Ali bin Osman Al-Hajvery, popularly known as Data Ganj Bakhsh.

Pakistan Taliban faction claims responsibility for blast in Lahore

US Vice President Mike Pence told Pakistan&#39;s Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi that his country &quot;must do more&quot; against the Taliban and other militants, the White House said on Saturday.

&quot;Vice President Pence reiterated President (Donald) Trump`s request that the Government of Pakistan must do more to address the continued presence of the Taliban, Haqqani Network, and other terrorist groups operating in their country,&quot; the White House said in a statement on the Friday call.

&quot;Pakistan could and should work closely with the United States,&quot; Pence said.

According to Washington, there is little sign that Islamabad has made a decision to end its support for the Taliban, which the country&#39;s powerful security services see as safeguarding its interests and as a bulwark against Indian influence in Kabul.

Afghan President Ashraf Ghani last month proposed peace talks with the Taliban, which could eventually be recognized as a political party if it observes a ceasefire and officially recognizes the Afghan government and constitution.

The Taliban has stopped short of rejecting the proposal, but its response has been muted.

According to Washington, there is little sign that Islamabad has made a decision to end its support for the Taliban

US Vice President Mike Pence told Pakistan's Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi that his country "must do more" against the Taliban and other militants, the White House said on Saturday. "Vice President Pence reiterated President (Donald) Trump`s request that the Government of Pakistan must do more to address the continued presence of the Taliban, Haqqani Network, and other terrorist groups operating in their country," the White House said in a statement on the Friday call. "Pakistan could and should work closely with the United States," Pence said. According to Washington, there is little sign that Islamabad has made a decision to end its support for the Taliban, which the country's powerful security services see as safeguarding its interests and as a bulwark against Indian influence in Kabul. Afghan President Ashraf Ghani last month proposed peace talks with the Taliban, which could eventually be recognized as a political party if it observes a ceasefire and officially recognizes the Afghan government and constitution. The Taliban has stopped short of rejecting the proposal, but its response has been muted.

US Vice President Mike Pence urges Pakistan to 'do more' against Taliban

The deputy chief of the Pakistani Taliban has been killed in a US drone strike, the militant group said in a statement Monday, as Washington continues to intensify attacks along the Afghan border region.

Khalid Mehsood, deputy leader of the umbrella Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), died after the pre-dawn strike in North Waziristan tribal agency on February 8, the militants said in the emailed statement.

The group`s leaders have nominated Mufti Noor Wali Mehsud to take his place, the statement said, adding Mehsud has &quot;undeterring trust&quot; in Pakistani Taliban leader Maulana Fazlullah.

US officials in Islamabad had no immediate comment. Much of the border with Pakistan`s northwestern tribal areas are off-limits to foreign journalists, and strikes along the porous frontier are difficult to verify.

The statement comes as the US has massively stepped up its air offensive in eastern Afghanistan, targeting Taliban drug labs and Islamic State hideouts as President Donald Trump looks to the sky to force the insurgents to the table.

But militants have reacted violently, launching a wave of deadly attacks across the war-torn country, including in Kabul, in a devastating display of defiance.

Officials admit the US strategy is not without risk, and the longer it runs the more costs will accrue.

More bombing almost invariably means more civilian casualties, which could further mobilise Afghans against the United States.

Khalid Mehsood, deputy leader of the umbrella Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), died after the pre-dawn strike in North Waziristan tribal agency on February 8, the militants said in the emailed statement

The deputy chief of the Pakistani Taliban has been killed in a US drone strike, the militant group said in a statement Monday, as Washington continues to intensify attacks along the Afghan border region. Khalid Mehsood, deputy leader of the umbrella Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), died after the pre-dawn strike in North Waziristan tribal agency on February 8, the militants said in the emailed statement. The group`s leaders have nominated Mufti Noor Wali Mehsud to take his place, the statement said, adding Mehsud has "undeterring trust" in Pakistani Taliban leader Maulana Fazlullah. US officials in Islamabad had no immediate comment. Much of the border with Pakistan`s northwestern tribal areas are off-limits to foreign journalists, and strikes along the porous frontier are difficult to verify. The statement comes as the US has massively stepped up its air offensive in eastern Afghanistan, targeting Taliban drug labs and Islamic State hideouts as President Donald Trump looks to the sky to force the insurgents to the table. But militants have reacted violently, launching a wave of deadly attacks across the war-torn country, including in Kabul, in a devastating display of defiance. Officials admit the US strategy is not without risk, and the longer it runs the more costs will accrue. More bombing almost invariably means more civilian casualties, which could further mobilise Afghans against the United States.

Pakistan Taliban confirm No. 2 killed in US drone strike

At least three policemen were killed and another three were wounded Thursday after a bomb targeting a senior police official&#39;s vehicle was detonated in the western city of Quetta.

The attack, which occurred around 10 am local time, has been claimed by the country&#39;s main Taliban group.

&quot;It was a terrorist attack and the target was the senior Superintendent of Police Motor Transport and also DIG Telecommunications Hamid Shakeel while he was traveling from his house to the office,&quot; Quetta police spokesperson Mohamed Akbar told EFE.

&quot;He died along with his driver and other policeman,&quot; Akbar said.

The spokesperson said investigators did not yet know what kind of bomb was used in the attack, nor whether the bomb had been placed beforehand or it was the work of a suicide attacker.

The three policemen who were wounded have been taken to hospital.

Pakistan&#39;s main Taliban group, Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan, claimed responsibility for the incident in a statement sent to the media.

&quot;We accept responsibility of the attack on DIG Hamid Shakil,&quot; said TTP spokesperson Mohamed Khurasani in the statement.

Quetta, capital of Baluchistan province, is among the most conflict-ridden areas in Pakistan, with armed separatists, Taliban factions and terrorist groups operating in the region.

Pakistan launched a military offensive in the northwestern tribal areas of the country in June 2014 in which 3,500 alleged terrorists have died, according to unverified army data.

In Feb. 2017, the army started another counter-terrorist operation following a string of attacks, and in mid-July launched an offensive against the Islamic State terror organization in areas bordering Afghanistan.

The attack, which occurred around 10 am local time, has been claimed by the country's main Taliban group.

At least three policemen were killed and another three were wounded Thursday after a bomb targeting a senior police official's vehicle was detonated in the western city of Quetta. The attack, which occurred around 10 am local time, has been claimed by the country's main Taliban group. "It was a terrorist attack and the target was the senior Superintendent of Police Motor Transport and also DIG Telecommunications Hamid Shakeel while he was traveling from his house to the office," Quetta police spokesperson Mohamed Akbar told EFE. "He died along with his driver and other policeman," Akbar said. The spokesperson said investigators did not yet know what kind of bomb was used in the attack, nor whether the bomb had been placed beforehand or it was the work of a suicide attacker. The three policemen who were wounded have been taken to hospital. Pakistan's main Taliban group, Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan, claimed responsibility for the incident in a statement sent to the media. "We accept responsibility of the attack on DIG Hamid Shakil," said TTP spokesperson Mohamed Khurasani in the statement. Quetta, capital of Baluchistan province, is among the most conflict-ridden areas in Pakistan, with armed separatists, Taliban factions and terrorist groups operating in the region. Pakistan launched a military offensive in the northwestern tribal areas of the country in June 2014 in which 3,500 alleged terrorists have died, according to unverified army data. In Feb. 2017, the army started another counter-terrorist operation following a string of attacks, and in mid-July launched an offensive against the Islamic State terror organization in areas bordering Afghanistan.

3 killed in bomb attack on senior police official in Pakistan

Omar Khalid Khorasani, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/top-pakistan-taliban-leader-killed-in-afghanistan-6787">leader of Khorasani&#39;s Jamaat-ul-Ahrar, the </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/top-pakistan-taliban-leader-killed-in-afghanistan-6787">breakway</a> group of &nbsp;Pakistan Taliban was killed in a drone strike on Thursday with reports suggesting senior militant commander Asad Afridi emerging as a new leader of the terrorist faction.

Khorasani died<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-suicide-attack-in-kandahar-military-base-at-least-40-soldiers-killed-22617"> of injuries suffered after a US drone strike</a> in Afghanistan&#39;s Paktia province.

&ldquo;Chief of our Jamaat-ul-Ahrar Umar Khalid Khorasani, who sustained serious injuries in a recent US drone strike in Afghanistan&#39;s Paktia province, succumbed to his injuries Wednesday evening,&rdquo; JuA spokesman Asad Mansoor told AFP by telephone from an undisclosed location.&nbsp;

&ldquo;At least nine close associates of Khorasani were also killed in the strike,&rdquo; the spokesman said.

A former journalist, Khorasani was born Abdul Wali in a village called Lakaro in the northwestern Mohmand tribal region in Pakistan.

Khorasani started his operations by targeting Kashmir before joining the Pakistan Taliban in 2007 but left it seven years later after a quarrel to form his own outfit Jamaat-ul-Ahrar.

Later, his group turned&nbsp;to the Pakistan Taliban once again about two years ago.

JuA was responsible for the deadly attack at Wagah in 2014 which targeted Pakistan soldiers, at least 60 people were killed in the attack including three Pakistan soldiers.

Jamaat-ul-Ahrar was&nbsp;allegedly responsible for suicide bombings which&nbsp;killed more than 250 people, with the group claiming eight major attacks in the last two years. The US had designated JuA as a terrorist organization last year.

Khorasani is believed to have had links to al Qaida and its chief, Ayman Al-Zawahiri.&nbsp;

The killing of JuA chief Omar Khalid Khorasani is being seen as a major boost for Pakistan which is keen to restore ties with the US, especially since secretary of state Rex Tillerson is set to visit the region next week.

Khorasani died of injuries suffered after a US drone strike in Afghanistan's Paktia province.

Omar Khalid Khorasani, leader of Khorasani's Jamaat-ul-Ahrar, the breakway group of Pakistan Taliban was killed in a drone strike on Thursday with reports suggesting senior militant commander Asad Afridi emerging as a new leader of the terrorist faction. Khorasani died of injuries suffered after a US drone strike in Afghanistan's Paktia province. “Chief of our Jamaat-ul-Ahrar Umar Khalid Khorasani, who sustained serious injuries in a recent US drone strike in Afghanistan's Paktia province, succumbed to his injuries Wednesday evening,” JuA spokesman Asad Mansoor told AFP by telephone from an undisclosed location. “At least nine close associates of Khorasani were also killed in the strike,” the spokesman said. A former journalist, Khorasani was born Abdul Wali in a village called Lakaro in the northwestern Mohmand tribal region in Pakistan. Khorasani started his operations by targeting Kashmir before joining the Pakistan Taliban in 2007 but left it seven years later after a quarrel to form his own outfit Jamaat-ul-Ahrar. Later, his group turned to the Pakistan Taliban once again about two years ago. JuA was responsible for the deadly attack at Wagah in 2014 which targeted Pakistan soldiers, at least 60 people were killed in the attack including three Pakistan soldiers. Jamaat-ul-Ahrar was allegedly responsible for suicide bombings which killed more than 250 people, with the group claiming eight major attacks in the last two years. The US had designated JuA as a terrorist organization last year. Khorasani is believed to have had links to al Qaida and its chief, Ayman Al-Zawahiri. The killing of JuA chief Omar Khalid Khorasani is being seen as a major boost for Pakistan which is keen to restore ties with the US, especially since secretary of state Rex Tillerson is set to visit the region next week.

Omar Khalid Khorasani, anti-India terrorist, former Pak Taliban operative killed in US drone strike

Agnisheik Chatterji

United States President Donald Trump&#39;s annual budget proposal to convert grants given to Pakistan into loans will have significant ramifications -- both in Pakistan and Afghanistan.

The White House on Tuesday (May 23) said the &quot;Foreign Military Funding for Pakistan may be provided in the form of a loan&quot;, though the Trump administration has let the State Department take a call on it.

If the proposal is implemented, it will be a sharp departure from Washington&#39;s decades-long policy vis-a-vis its aid to Pakistan.

Crucially, the plan coincides with Washington&#39;s deliberation on whether to renew its military presence on Afghan soil.

The impending decision may boomerang on the United States on three fronts, all involving a possible pivot in Pakistan&#39;s foreign policy: Islamabad may shun the US and look to China for its source of aid, escalate its covert militant operations in Afghanistan and scythe its decades-long civilian and military cooperation with Washington.

Although US-Pakistan ties have ebbed and flowed ever since the latter&#39;s creation in 1947, the potential quagmire is likely to undermine the US&#39; geopolitical advantage and be viewed by many as a very expensive failure.

At one point, Pakistan was the third-largest recipient of US assistance -- Washington gave Islamabad nearly $19 billion in aid between 2002 and 2010 and nearly $75 billion since 1951.

And although their partnership has largely served its utilitarian purpose -- during the US&#39; proxy war against the Soviet Union in Afghanistan and its war on terror in the South Asian region in the noughties -- their worsening relations will only indicate that Pakistan has been a black hole for US funds.

A history of mistrust and friendship

Their partnership has been viewed by many as a marriage of convenience.

US&#39; economic assistance to Pakistan peaked in the Cold War-dominated 1960s, while its military aid spiked during the 1980s (Soviet Union) and 2000s (Taliban).

But there have been periods of lull as well. 
&nbsp; 
Washington scrapped its aid during the India-Pakistan wars in 1965 and 1971, and when Islamabad forged ahead with its uranium enrichment programme.

The 9/11 attack in 2001 significantly altered Washington&#39;s South Asia praxis when they decided to give large tranches of aid to Islamabad in their fight to remove the last vestige of Taliban from Afghanistan and Pakistan.

Since 2010, the assistance monies have sharply declined and the current administration&#39;s decision to convert future military funding into loans will irk the Pakistani establishment.

Washington&#39;s re-evaluation of its aid programme came in 2008 when the Enhanced Partnership with Pakistan Act of 2009, or the Kerry-Lugar-Berman bill, increased accountability of the Pakistan army and lay down strict caveats.

Till then, between 2001 and 2010, there were scant conditions imposed by the US. 
&nbsp; 
Pakistan was now required to certify that they didn&#39;t stockpile its weaponry to augment its military against India. They also had to promise that they had stopped supporting extremist forces and had dismantled terror launchpads.

Washington&#39;s doctrinal shift came amid concerns over Islamabad&#39;s misuse of aid. Reports had emanated about how Pakistan used half the funds to purchase F-16s and anti-missile defence systems.&nbsp;

But Trump&#39;s proposal is a major political gamble for the US.

A glance at their past does suggest that the potential impasse is not unprecedented.

However, China&#39;s rising influence in Pakistan is too close for comfort for the White House. And conversion of grants into loans might unhinge the decades-long bilateral ties.

China has already made its foray in the region, with Beijing signing a massive $54 billion China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, aimed to upgrade and boost the south Asian nation&#39;s infrastructure and economy.

The Afghanistan conundrum&nbsp;

A potential frostiness would also put the US on the back foot in the region.

Pakistan&#39;s importance to the US was underpinned by Senator John McCain, chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, who said that it was &iuml;mperative&quot; for the ties to remain harmonious as it would enhance &quot;the safety of American troops&quot; and success of their Afghanistan mission&quot;.

If Pakistan were to row back on its association with the White House, it would endanger the already-perilous security status in Afghanistan.

This period is even more crucial for the Trump administration as it coincides with them mulling redeployment of 3,000 to 5,000 US troops in Afghanistan.

Currently, there are US troops, but only in an advisory capacity.

But the situation is turning bleak, with Taliban&#39;s annual Spring Offensive blowing considerable holes in the indigenous Afghan security forces.

The Taliban has gradually regained lost ground in Afghanistan ever since NATO troops departed the country&#39;s shores. They currently hold sway over 40 per cent of the war-torn country.

Moreover, the Afghan security forces have been beset by spike in casualty toll, desertion and fragging. A US watchdog said there was a 35 per cent increase in Afghan soldiers and police killed during last year&#39;s Spring Offensive.

Alienating Pakistan at this juncture is likely to backfire on the US as Islamabad has supported the Afghan Taliban over the last few years as a tool to meddle in the internal affairs of their neighbours.

Though Pakistan has denied supporting terror networks, various US-based white papers and senior administrative officials have blamed Islamabad and their intel agency Inter-Services Intelligence of playing a double game.

Washington has pressured Pakistan in the past to crack down on Taliban but their efforts have borne little results.

Several analysts believe Islamabad provides Afghan Taliban safe havens in their country to launch attacks across the Durand Line -- the controversial border that politically separates Pakistan and Afghanistan.

Further, a spurned Pakistan could activate the sleeping cells of the Haqqani network in Pakistan, which could spell further trouble for Afghanistan and the US.

If the US administration is to pull the plug on its aid and convert them into loans, they would lose a crucial ally in Pakistan and further lose ground in Afghanistan.

Calls for stripping aid to Pakistan have grown louder in recent years, but the timing of it would likely erode US&#39; policy in the region. For now, it&#39;s all about the timing.

(WION)

United States President Donald Trump's annual budget has thought of converting grants given to Pakistan to purchase military hardware into loans

Agnisheik Chatterji United States President Donald Trump's annual budget proposal to convert grants given to Pakistan into loans will have significant ramifications -- both in Pakistan and Afghanistan. The White House on Tuesday (May 23) said the "Foreign Military Funding for Pakistan may be provided in the form of a loan", though the Trump administration has let the State Department take a call on it. If the proposal is implemented, it will be a sharp departure from Washington's decades-long policy vis-a-vis its aid to Pakistan. Crucially, the plan coincides with Washington's deliberation on whether to renew its military presence on Afghan soil. The impending decision may boomerang on the United States on three fronts, all involving a possible pivot in Pakistan's foreign policy: Islamabad may shun the US and look to China for its source of aid, escalate its covert militant operations in Afghanistan and scythe its decades-long civilian and military cooperation with Washington. Although US-Pakistan ties have ebbed and flowed ever since the latter's creation in 1947, the potential quagmire is likely to undermine the US' geopolitical advantage and be viewed by many as a very expensive failure. At one point, Pakistan was the third-largest recipient of US assistance -- Washington gave Islamabad nearly $19 billion in aid between 2002 and 2010 and nearly $75 billion since 1951. And although their partnership has largely served its utilitarian purpose -- during the US' proxy war against the Soviet Union in Afghanistan and its war on terror in the South Asian region in the noughties -- their worsening relations will only indicate that Pakistan has been a black hole for US funds. A history of mistrust and friendship Their partnership has been viewed by many as a marriage of convenience. US' economic assistance to Pakistan peaked in the Cold War-dominated 1960s, while its military aid spiked during the 1980s (Soviet Union) and 2000s (Taliban). But there have been periods of lull as well. Washington scrapped its aid during the India-Pakistan wars in 1965 and 1971, and when Islamabad forged ahead with its uranium enrichment programme. The 9/11 attack in 2001 significantly altered Washington's South Asia praxis when they decided to give large tranches of aid to Islamabad in their fight to remove the last vestige of Taliban from Afghanistan and Pakistan. Since 2010, the assistance monies have sharply declined and the current administration's decision to convert future military funding into loans will irk the Pakistani establishment. Washington's re-evaluation of its aid programme came in 2008 when the Enhanced Partnership with Pakistan Act of 2009, or the Kerry-Lugar-Berman bill, increased accountability of the Pakistan army and lay down strict caveats. Till then, between 2001 and 2010, there were scant conditions imposed by the US. Pakistan was now required to certify that they didn't stockpile its weaponry to augment its military against India. They also had to promise that they had stopped supporting extremist forces and had dismantled terror launchpads. Washington's doctrinal shift came amid concerns over Islamabad's misuse of aid. Reports had emanated about how Pakistan used half the funds to purchase F-16s and anti-missile defence systems. But Trump's proposal is a major political gamble for the US. A glance at their past does suggest that the potential impasse is not unprecedented. However, China's rising influence in Pakistan is too close for comfort for the White House. And conversion of grants into loans might unhinge the decades-long bilateral ties. China has already made its foray in the region, with Beijing signing a massive $54 billion China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, aimed to upgrade and boost the south Asian nation's infrastructure and economy. The Afghanistan conundrum A potential frostiness would also put the US on the back foot in the region. Pakistan's importance to the US was underpinned by Senator John McCain, chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, who said that it was ïmperative" for the ties to remain harmonious as it would enhance "the safety of American troops" and success of their Afghanistan mission". If Pakistan were to row back on its association with the White House, it would endanger the already-perilous security status in Afghanistan. This period is even more crucial for the Trump administration as it coincides with them mulling redeployment of 3,000 to 5,000 US troops in Afghanistan. Currently, there are US troops, but only in an advisory capacity. But the situation is turning bleak, with Taliban's annual Spring Offensive blowing considerable holes in the indigenous Afghan security forces. The Taliban has gradually regained lost ground in Afghanistan ever since NATO troops departed the country's shores. They currently hold sway over 40 per cent of the war-torn country. Moreover, the Afghan security forces have been beset by spike in casualty toll, desertion and fragging. A US watchdog said there was a 35 per cent increase in Afghan soldiers and police killed during last year's Spring Offensive. Alienating Pakistan at this juncture is likely to backfire on the US as Islamabad has supported the Afghan Taliban over the last few years as a tool to meddle in the internal affairs of their neighbours. Though Pakistan has denied supporting terror networks, various US-based white papers and senior administrative officials have blamed Islamabad and their intel agency Inter-Services Intelligence of playing a double game. Washington has pressured Pakistan in the past to crack down on Taliban but their efforts have borne little results. Several analysts believe Islamabad provides Afghan Taliban safe havens in their country to launch attacks across the Durand Line -- the controversial border that politically separates Pakistan and Afghanistan. Further, a spurned Pakistan could activate the sleeping cells of the Haqqani network in Pakistan, which could spell further trouble for Afghanistan and the US. If the US administration is to pull the plug on its aid and convert them into loans, they would lose a crucial ally in Pakistan and further lose ground in Afghanistan. Calls for stripping aid to Pakistan have grown louder in recent years, but the timing of it would likely erode US' policy in the region. For now, it's all about the timing. (WION)

US' Pakistan aid-to-loan proposal is fraught with danger

A militant attack on a police training academy in Pakistan&#39;s western city of Quetta has left at least 61&nbsp;people dead, international news agency AFP reported.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Pakistan on Tuesday mourned the killing of the people in&nbsp;the deadliest attack on a security installation in the country`s history.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The home minister of Balochistan province, Sarfaraz Bugti, said the attack &ndash; which began last night at 11.30 pm local time on Monday&nbsp;&ndash; was carried out by three militants&nbsp;and not six as was previously estimated by the&nbsp;Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).

&nbsp;

Bugti said two of the three gunmen blew themselves up to avoid being captured and that the third militant was killed in a gunfight with Pakistani security forces.

&nbsp;

Bugti had previously pegged the death toll at 44,&nbsp;but rescue officials updated the figure to at least 59.

&nbsp;

The attackers are believed to have been affiliated to the Lashkar-e-Jhangvi Al Almi militant group, an offshoot of the Pakistani Taliban,&nbsp;senior Pakistan Army officer Sher Afghan told the Pakistani newspaper Dawn.

&nbsp;

The militants had communicated with handlers in Afghanistan and had taken instructions from them, he added.

&nbsp;

The attackers stormed the front gate of the Balochistan Police College, gunning down a policeman manning the only entrance to the academy.

&nbsp;

There were some 700 police cadets on campus when the attack began.

&nbsp;

Most of the&nbsp;injured, some of whom are in critical condition, have been admitted to three diferent hospitals in Quetta &mdash;&nbsp;Civil Hospital, Bolan Medical College Hospital, and Military Hospital.

&nbsp;

Bugti said a Frontier Corps official and a captain were among the injured.

&nbsp;

&quot;Security forces, including the Frontier Corps and the Pakistan Army light brigade, have cleared 95 per cent of the college area,&quot; Bugti said, when asked about the combing operation that got under way after the gunmen were dead.

&nbsp;

Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif strongly condemned the attack on the training centre and directed provincial and federal authorities to crack down on the perpetrators.

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The police training centre&nbsp;is considered one of the most sensitive areas of Quetta, the capital city of Balochistan province. It has previously come&nbsp;under attack in 2006&nbsp;and 2008. In 2006,&nbsp;attackers had fired rockets into the college courtyard.

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Meanwhile, the United States also extended its condolences. &quot;We stand with the people of Pakistan and government of Pakistan at this difficult hour, and we will continue to work with our partners in Pakistan and across the region to combat the threat of terrorism,&quot; State Department spokesperson John Kirby said.

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(WION with inputs from agencies)

Two of the attackers reportedly blew themselves up to avoid being captured, the third was killed in a gun battle with security forces

A militant attack on a police training academy in Pakistan's western city of Quetta has left at least 61 people dead, international news agency AFP reported. Pakistan on Tuesday mourned the killing of the people in the deadliest attack on a security installation in the country`s history. The home minister of Balochistan province, Sarfaraz Bugti, said the attack – which began last night at 11.30 pm local time on Monday – was carried out by three militants and not six as was previously estimated by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR). Bugti said two of the three gunmen blew themselves up to avoid being captured and that the third militant was killed in a gunfight with Pakistani security forces. Bugti had previously pegged the death toll at 44, but rescue officials updated the figure to at least 59. The attackers are believed to have been affiliated to the Lashkar-e-Jhangvi Al Almi militant group, an offshoot of the Pakistani Taliban, senior Pakistan Army officer Sher Afghan told the Pakistani newspaper Dawn. The militants had communicated with handlers in Afghanistan and had taken instructions from them, he added. The attackers stormed the front gate of the Balochistan Police College, gunning down a policeman manning the only entrance to the academy. There were some 700 police cadets on campus when the attack began. Most of the injured, some of whom are in critical condition, have been admitted to three diferent hospitals in Quetta — Civil Hospital, Bolan Medical College Hospital, and Military Hospital. Bugti said a Frontier Corps official and a captain were among the injured. "Security forces, including the Frontier Corps and the Pakistan Army light brigade, have cleared 95 per cent of the college area," Bugti said, when asked about the combing operation that got under way after the gunmen were dead. Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif strongly condemned the attack on the training centre and directed provincial and federal authorities to crack down on the perpetrators. The police training centre is considered one of the most sensitive areas of Quetta, the capital city of Balochistan province. It has previously come under attack in 2006 and 2008. In 2006, attackers had fired rockets into the college courtyard. Meanwhile, the United States also extended its condolences. "We stand with the people of Pakistan and government of Pakistan at this difficult hour, and we will continue to work with our partners in Pakistan and across the region to combat the threat of terrorism," State Department spokesperson John Kirby said. (WION with inputs from agencies)

Quetta attack: At least 61 dead in Pakistan after 3 militants storm police college

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