New Zealand revealed Monday that it had dispatched a special forces unit to Syria to search for nurse Louisa Akavi who was abducted by the Islamic State group more than five years ago.

Details of the kidnapping had been kept under wraps until the International Committee of the Red Cross appealed on Sunday for news about 62-year-old Akavi and two Syrian drivers kidnapped with her in October 2013.

They were in a Red Cross convoy delivering supplies to medical facilities in Idlib, northwest Syria when armed men stopped the vehicles and abducted seven people. Four were released the next day.&nbsp;

New Zealand Deputy Prime Minister Winston Peters said information about the kidnapping had not been previously released for fear that any publicity would place them at greater risk.

But he said it was believed Akavi was still held by IS and there were ongoing operations to locate her which included the deployment of a small multi-agency team based in Iraq.

"This has involved members of the NZDF (New Zealand defence force) drawn from the Special Operations Force, and personnel have visited Syria from time to time as required," Peters said.

"This non-combat team was specifically focused on locating Louisa and identifying opportunities to recover her."

The New York Times has reported the Red Cross has reason to believe she is alive because at least two people described seeing her in December at a clinic in Sousa, one of the final villages to be held by IS jihadists.

Some of the witnesses said they saw her performing medical duties at clinics and hospitals under IS control, indicating that she was no longer held in a cell and was able to use her nursing skills to win a modicum of freedom.

New Zealand revealed Monday that it had dispatched a special forces unit to Syria to search for nurse Louisa Akavi who was abducted by the Islamic State group more than five years ago.

New Zealand revealed Monday that it had dispatched a special forces unit to Syria to search for nurse Louisa Akavi who was abducted by the Islamic State group more than five years ago. Details of the kidnapping had been kept under wraps until the International Committee of the Red Cross appealed on Sunday for news about 62-year-old Akavi and two Syrian drivers kidnapped with her in October 2013. They were in a Red Cross convoy delivering supplies to medical facilities in Idlib, northwest Syria when armed men stopped the vehicles and abducted seven people. Four were released the next day. New Zealand Deputy Prime Minister Winston Peters said information about the kidnapping had not been previously released for fear that any publicity would place them at greater risk. But he said it was believed Akavi was still held by IS and there were ongoing operations to locate her which included the deployment of a small multi-agency team based in Iraq. "This has involved members of the NZDF (New Zealand defence force) drawn from the Special Operations Force, and personnel have visited Syria from time to time as required," Peters said. "This non-combat team was specifically focused on locating Louisa and identifying opportunities to recover her." The New York Times has reported the Red Cross has reason to believe she is alive because at least two people described seeing her in December at a clinic in Sousa, one of the final villages to be held by IS jihadists. Some of the witnesses said they saw her performing medical duties at clinics and hospitals under IS control, indicating that she was no longer held in a cell and was able to use her nursing skills to win a modicum of freedom.

Special forces in search for New Zealand nurse held hostage by Islamic State

A New Zealand nurse believed abducted with two drivers by Islamic State militants in Syria in 2013 may still be alive, the International Committee of the Red Cross has revealed for the first time in an appeal for news of her whereabouts.

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.wionews.com/world/special-forces-in-search-for-nz-nurse-held-hostage-by-is-210469&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwi-iYP-69HhAhXK7HMBHSz4AaYQFggFMAA&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw0gELFC1mUrYv8Is-lWtsk3">Louisa Akavi</a> was snatched along with Syrian drivers Alaa Rajab and Nabil Bakdounes while travelling in a Red Cross convoy delivering supplies to Idlib, in the northwest of the country.

Armed men stopped their convoy on October 13, 2013, and abducted seven people, four of whom were released the following day.

The ICRC said it believed they were abducted by the Islamic State group (IS).

"Our latest credible information indicates that Louisa was alive in late 2018," the group said Sunday in a statement from Geneva.

"The ICRC has never been able to learn more details about Alaa and Nabil, and their fate is not known."

New Zealand said it disagreed with making the abduction public but did confirm it had dispatched a special forces unit to Syria to search for Akavi.

"This has involved members of the NZDF (New Zealand defence force) drawn from the Special Operations Force, and personnel have visited Syria from time to time as required," New Zealand Deputy Prime Minister Winston Peters said Monday.

"This non-combat team was specifically focused on locating Louisa and identifying opportunities to recover her.

"The efforts to locate and recover Louisa are ongoing, and there are a number of operational or intelligence matters the government won't be commenting on," he said.

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern expressed disappointment at the information released by the ICRC and refused to answer questions at her weekly press conference on Monday.

"It absolutely remains the government's view that it would be preferable if this case was not in the public domain," she said.

'Compassionate humanitarian'

Peters said information about the kidnapping had not been previously released for fear that any publicity would place the hostages at greater risk, and New Zealand media outlets which knew Akavi had been taken hostage agreed not to publish the story.

"In these situations, the priority must be the safety of the hostage and we received clear advice that any publicity would place Louisa at even greater risk," Peters said.

"The government is very grateful for the cooperation of media outlets over many years in respecting this advice and undertaking not to publish ... and we thank them for their principled approach."

ICRC operations director Dominik Stillhart said it was an "extremely difficult time" for the families of the three.

"Louisa is a true and compassionate humanitarian. Alaa and Nabil were committed colleagues and an integral part of our aid deliveries.

"We call on anyone with information to please come forward. If our colleagues are still being held, we call for their immediate and unconditional release."

Akavi had carried out 17 field missions with the ICRC and the New Zealand Red Cross, the statement said. Rajab and Bakdounes were "dedicated husbands and caring fathers", it added.

A spokesman for Akavi's family, Tuaine Robati, said she knew the dangers she faced.

"She's been through tough times in her job before but she's stuck at it because she loves it," he said.

"Louisa is an incredibly experienced nurse and aid worker who knew the risks of her job. Our family misses her very much and is concerned for her safety."

The war in Syria, which began in 2011, has claimed more than 370,000 lives and forced millions of people to flee their homes.&nbsp;

The Kurdish-led SDF, backed by a US-led coalition, captured the last IS bastion in eastern Syria on March 23 and had detained thousands of suspected IS fighters.

But this could make it more difficult to find Akavi.

The New York Times has reported the Red Cross has reason to believe she is alive because at least two people described seeing her in December at a clinic in Sousa, one of the final villages to be held by IS jihadists.

"We are speaking out today to publicly honour and acknowledge Louisa's, Alaa's, and Nabil's hardship and suffering," the ICRC statement said.

The organisation has 98 foreign workers and 580 Syrians working in the country.

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights accuses IS of abducting thousands of people since 2014.

A New Zealand nurse believed abducted with two drivers by Islamic State militants in Syria in 2013 may still be alive, the International Committee of the Red Cross has revealed for the first time in an appeal for news of her whereabouts.

A New Zealand nurse believed abducted with two drivers by Islamic State militants in Syria in 2013 may still be alive, the International Committee of the Red Cross has revealed for the first time in an appeal for news of her whereabouts. Louisa Akavi was snatched along with Syrian drivers Alaa Rajab and Nabil Bakdounes while travelling in a Red Cross convoy delivering supplies to Idlib, in the northwest of the country. Armed men stopped their convoy on October 13, 2013, and abducted seven people, four of whom were released the following day. The ICRC said it believed they were abducted by the Islamic State group (IS). "Our latest credible information indicates that Louisa was alive in late 2018," the group said Sunday in a statement from Geneva. "The ICRC has never been able to learn more details about Alaa and Nabil, and their fate is not known." New Zealand said it disagreed with making the abduction public but did confirm it had dispatched a special forces unit to Syria to search for Akavi. "This has involved members of the NZDF (New Zealand defence force) drawn from the Special Operations Force, and personnel have visited Syria from time to time as required," New Zealand Deputy Prime Minister Winston Peters said Monday. "This non-combat team was specifically focused on locating Louisa and identifying opportunities to recover her. "The efforts to locate and recover Louisa are ongoing, and there are a number of operational or intelligence matters the government won't be commenting on," he said. New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern expressed disappointment at the information released by the ICRC and refused to answer questions at her weekly press conference on Monday. "It absolutely remains the government's view that it would be preferable if this case was not in the public domain," she said. 'Compassionate humanitarian' Peters said information about the kidnapping had not been previously released for fear that any publicity would place the hostages at greater risk, and New Zealand media outlets which knew Akavi had been taken hostage agreed not to publish the story. "In these situations, the priority must be the safety of the hostage and we received clear advice that any publicity would place Louisa at even greater risk," Peters said. "The government is very grateful for the cooperation of media outlets over many years in respecting this advice and undertaking not to publish ... and we thank them for their principled approach." ICRC operations director Dominik Stillhart said it was an "extremely difficult time" for the families of the three. "Louisa is a true and compassionate humanitarian. Alaa and Nabil were committed colleagues and an integral part of our aid deliveries. "We call on anyone with information to please come forward. If our colleagues are still being held, we call for their immediate and unconditional release." Akavi had carried out 17 field missions with the ICRC and the New Zealand Red Cross, the statement said. Rajab and Bakdounes were "dedicated husbands and caring fathers", it added. A spokesman for Akavi's family, Tuaine Robati, said she knew the dangers she faced. "She's been through tough times in her job before but she's stuck at it because she loves it," he said. "Louisa is an incredibly experienced nurse and aid worker who knew the risks of her job. Our family misses her very much and is concerned for her safety." The war in Syria, which began in 2011, has claimed more than 370,000 lives and forced millions of people to flee their homes. The Kurdish-led SDF, backed by a US-led coalition, captured the last IS bastion in eastern Syria on March 23 and had detained thousands of suspected IS fighters. But this could make it more difficult to find Akavi. The New York Times has reported the Red Cross has reason to believe she is alive because at least two people described seeing her in December at a clinic in Sousa, one of the final villages to be held by IS jihadists. "We are speaking out today to publicly honour and acknowledge Louisa's, Alaa's, and Nabil's hardship and suffering," the ICRC statement said. The organisation has 98 foreign workers and 580 Syrians working in the country. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights accuses IS of abducting thousands of people since 2014.

Nurse kidnapped by Islamic State five years ago may be alive: Red Cross

The Afghan Taliban have banned the World Health Organization and the Red Cross from operating in areas under their control until further notice, a spokesman said on Thursday, citing unspecified "suspicious" actions during vaccination campaigns.

The move come as the WHO is carrying out a vaccination campaign in Afghanistan, one of the last countries in the world where polio is still endemic.

Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid said fighting across Afghanistan had created a "complex situation" and some charitable organisations including the WHO and the Red Cross were not operating in accordance with the situation.

"They have not stuck to the commitments they had with the Islamic Emirates, and they are acting suspiciously during vaccination campaigns," he said, providing no details.

Other aid groups were free to continue operations, he said.

There was no immediate comment from the two organisations.

The Afghan Taliban have banned the World Health Organization and the Red Cross from operating in areas under their control until further notice, a spokesman said on Thursday, citing unspecified "suspicious" actions during vaccination campaigns.

The Afghan Taliban have banned the World Health Organization and the Red Cross from operating in areas under their control until further notice, a spokesman said on Thursday, citing unspecified "suspicious" actions during vaccination campaigns. The move come as the WHO is carrying out a vaccination campaign in Afghanistan, one of the last countries in the world where polio is still endemic. Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid said fighting across Afghanistan had created a "complex situation" and some charitable organisations including the WHO and the Red Cross were not operating in accordance with the situation. "They have not stuck to the commitments they had with the Islamic Emirates, and they are acting suspiciously during vaccination campaigns," he said, providing no details. Other aid groups were free to continue operations, he said. There was no immediate comment from the two organisations.

Afghan Taliban bans WHO and Red Cross work amid vaccination drive

Disaster response turns to VR for grim training

The death toll in Mozambique after a cyclone tore through southern Africa and triggered devastating floods has jumped to 417, Land and Environment Minister Celso Correia said on Saturday, adding that the situation remained critical.

Cyclone Idai lashed the Mozambican port city of Beira with winds of up to 170 km per hour (105 miles per hour) last week, then moved inland to Zimbabwe and Malawi, flattening buildings and putting the lives of millions at risk.

"The situation is getting better, still critical, but it's getting better," Correia said, adding that it was becoming easier to work on the ground.

"But unfortunately the number of dead is increasing, we have now 417 people who have lost their lives."

The storm's rains caused the Buzi and Pungwe rivers to burst their banks.

United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) said on Saturday that the Buzi and Zambezi rivers were at risk of breaking their banks again.

"We're going to have to wait until the flood waters recede until we know the full expanse of the toll on the people of Mozambique," OCHA coordinator Sebastian Rhodes Stampa said.

The storm has also killed 259 in Zimbabwe, and the number was expected to rise, relief agencies said. In Malawi, 56 people died in heavy rains before the onset of Idai.

The International Federation of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) said on Friday that cases of cholera have been reported in Beira, a port city of 500,000 people.

Both Correia and Rhodes Stampa said that cholera and other water-borne diseases were not yet a problem, though floodwaters were dirty and the risk of disease spreading was high.

Cholera is spread by faeces in sewage contaminating water or food, and outbreaks can develop quickly in a humanitarian crisis where sanitation systems are disrupted. It can kill within hours if left untreated.

The death toll in Mozambique after a cyclone tore through southern Africa and triggered devastating floods has jumped to 417, Land and Environment Minister Celso Correia said on Saturday, adding that the situation remained critical.

The death toll in Mozambique after a cyclone tore through southern Africa and triggered devastating floods has jumped to 417, Land and Environment Minister Celso Correia said on Saturday, adding that the situation remained critical. Cyclone Idai lashed the Mozambican port city of Beira with winds of up to 170 km per hour (105 miles per hour) last week, then moved inland to Zimbabwe and Malawi, flattening buildings and putting the lives of millions at risk. "The situation is getting better, still critical, but it's getting better," Correia said, adding that it was becoming easier to work on the ground. "But unfortunately the number of dead is increasing, we have now 417 people who have lost their lives." The storm's rains caused the Buzi and Pungwe rivers to burst their banks. United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) said on Saturday that the Buzi and Zambezi rivers were at risk of breaking their banks again. "We're going to have to wait until the flood waters recede until we know the full expanse of the toll on the people of Mozambique," OCHA coordinator Sebastian Rhodes Stampa said. The storm has also killed 259 in Zimbabwe, and the number was expected to rise, relief agencies said. In Malawi, 56 people died in heavy rains before the onset of Idai. The International Federation of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) said on Friday that cases of cholera have been reported in Beira, a port city of 500,000 people. Both Correia and Rhodes Stampa said that cholera and other water-borne diseases were not yet a problem, though floodwaters were dirty and the risk of disease spreading was high. Cholera is spread by faeces in sewage contaminating water or food, and outbreaks can develop quickly in a humanitarian crisis where sanitation systems are disrupted. It can kill within hours if left untreated.

Mozambique cyclone death toll jumps to more than 400

Cyclone Idai killed at least <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/more-than-120-dead-after-cyclone-hits-mozambique-zimbabwe-203943">157 people in Zimbabwe and Mozambique</a> as it tore across Southern Africa, officials and state media said on Monday, and vast areas of land have been flooded, roads destroyed and communications disrupted.

The Mozambican port city of Beira has suffered massive damage, the Red Cross said. The storm has also pounded Malawi.

"The scale of devastation (in Beira) is enormous. It seems that 90 per cent of the area is completely destroyed," said Jamie LeSueur, leader of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) team there.

In Zimbabwe, the Chimanimani district has been cut off from the rest of the country by torrential rains and winds of up to 170 km per hour that swept away roads, homes and bridges and knocked out power and communication lines.

Zimbabwean information ministry official Nick Mangwana told Reuters the number of confirmed deaths throughout the country was now 89. The body count is expected to rise.

The Mozambican state news agency put the death toll in Beira at 68, although television channel TVM reported that about 84 people had died across Mozambique.

Zimbabwean rescuers were struggling to reach people in Chimanimani, many of whom have been sleeping in the mountains since Friday, after their homes were flattened by rock falls and mudslides or washed away by torrential rains. Many families cannot bury the dead due to the floods.

The Harare government has declared a state of disaster in areas affected by the storm, the worst to hit the country since Cyclone Eline devastated eastern and southern Zimbabwe in 2000.

The country of 15 million people is already suffering a severe drought that has wilted crops. A United Nations humanitarian agency says 5.3 million people will require food aid.

In Beira, home to Mozambique's second largest port which serves as gateway for imports to landlocked countries in southeast Africa, billboards were blown down and electricity and telephone poles knocked down.

Large swathes of land city's outskirts were submerged, and many houses were destroyed. In some streets, people waded through knee-high water, avoiding piles of mangled metal, detached tin roofs and other debris.

Beira has a population of 500,000 and sits at the mouth of the Pungwe River.

The director of a company that jointly manages the port, Cornelder, based in The Netherlands, said the port had been closed since last Wednesday but was relatively all right and would hopefully resume operations on Tuesday.

At least two cranes would be working but damage to the access routes and roads further inland was more likely to cause a problem, said the director, who asked not to be named.

"It's a total blackout, so all networks and electricity are down," the person said, adding the company had large generators and enough fuel to run for now.

The fuel pipeline running from Beira to Zimbabwe was believed to be intact, the person said, though communication was still very patchy and therefore the situation at the port remained uncertain.

In February 2000, Cyclone Eline hit Mozambique when it was already devastated by its worst floods in three decades. It killed 350 people and made 650,000 homeless across southern Africa.

Cyclone Idai killed at least 157 people in Zimbabwe and Mozambique as it tore across Southern Africa, officials and state media said on Monday, and vast areas of land have been flooded, roads destroyed and communications disrupted.

Cyclone Idai killed at least 157 people in Zimbabwe and Mozambique as it tore across Southern Africa, officials and state media said on Monday, and vast areas of land have been flooded, roads destroyed and communications disrupted. The Mozambican port city of Beira has suffered massive damage, the Red Cross said. The storm has also pounded Malawi. "The scale of devastation (in Beira) is enormous. It seems that 90 per cent of the area is completely destroyed," said Jamie LeSueur, leader of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) team there. In Zimbabwe, the Chimanimani district has been cut off from the rest of the country by torrential rains and winds of up to 170 km per hour that swept away roads, homes and bridges and knocked out power and communication lines. Zimbabwean information ministry official Nick Mangwana told Reuters the number of confirmed deaths throughout the country was now 89. The body count is expected to rise. The Mozambican state news agency put the death toll in Beira at 68, although television channel TVM reported that about 84 people had died across Mozambique. Zimbabwean rescuers were struggling to reach people in Chimanimani, many of whom have been sleeping in the mountains since Friday, after their homes were flattened by rock falls and mudslides or washed away by torrential rains. Many families cannot bury the dead due to the floods. The Harare government has declared a state of disaster in areas affected by the storm, the worst to hit the country since Cyclone Eline devastated eastern and southern Zimbabwe in 2000. The country of 15 million people is already suffering a severe drought that has wilted crops. A United Nations humanitarian agency says 5.3 million people will require food aid. In Beira, home to Mozambique's second largest port which serves as gateway for imports to landlocked countries in southeast Africa, billboards were blown down and electricity and telephone poles knocked down. Large swathes of land city's outskirts were submerged, and many houses were destroyed. In some streets, people waded through knee-high water, avoiding piles of mangled metal, detached tin roofs and other debris. Beira has a population of 500,000 and sits at the mouth of the Pungwe River. The director of a company that jointly manages the port, Cornelder, based in The Netherlands, said the port had been closed since last Wednesday but was relatively all right and would hopefully resume operations on Tuesday. At least two cranes would be working but damage to the access routes and roads further inland was more likely to cause a problem, said the director, who asked not to be named. "It's a total blackout, so all networks and electricity are down," the person said, adding the company had large generators and enough fuel to run for now. The fuel pipeline running from Beira to Zimbabwe was believed to be intact, the person said, though communication was still very patchy and therefore the situation at the port remained uncertain. In February 2000, Cyclone Eline hit Mozambique when it was already devastated by its worst floods in three decades. It killed 350 people and made 650,000 homeless across southern Africa.

Cyclone Idai: At least 157 killed in Zimbabwe, Mozambique

A majority of Rohingyas in the refugee camp in Cox's Bazar area in southeast Bangladesh are at risk during the cyclone season owing to the deteriorating conditions of their makeshift homes, the International Federation of Red Cross warned Monday.

A statement by the Geneva-based nonprofit warned that 82 per cent of these refugees - 574,000 out of a total of 700,000 - live in homes built with bamboo and shredded plastic that is now battered, putting them at great risk during the approaching cyclone season, that will be accompanied by heavy rainfall and extreme temperatures.

"Housing conditions in these camps are basic. However, after 18 months, they have dramatically deteriorated, leaving people worryingly exposed," head of the IFRC country office in Bangladesh, Azmat Ulla, said in the statement.

"The aid community in Cox's Bazar needs to prioritize repairing and replacing these battered shelters, so that people have some protection against the elements, and are provided with at least some basic comfort and dignity," he added.

Last week, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugee said it would raise $920 million in a new plan to help the 900,000 Rohingya refugees living in Bangladesh.

Over half the money, also meant to assist 330,000 vulnerable Bangladeshi hosts, will be used to meet basic needs such as food, water, sanitation and shelter of the refugees, who escaped to Bangladesh from Myanmar's Rakhine state.

Since August 2017, Myanmar's Rakhine state has seen the exodus of more than 745,000 members of the mostly Muslim ethnic minority group, after the army launched a military offensive following attacks by Rohingya rebels on government posts in the region.

An additional 200,000 Rohingyas - one of the most persecuted communities in the world - had fled to Bangladesh before the 2017 crisis erupted.

Most of the refugees live under harsh conditions in Cox's Bazar area near the Myanmar border, making it the world's largest refugee camp.

Myanmar does not recognize the Rohingyas as citizens and considers them Bangladeshi immigrants limiting their movements within the country.

In November 2017, Bangladesh and Myanmar had signed an agreement for the repatriation of the Rohingyas, although it is yet to be implemented. 
&nbsp;

A majority of Rohingyas in the refugee camp in Cox's Bazar area in southeast Bangladesh are at risk during the cyclone season owing to the deteriorating conditions of their makeshift homes, the International Federation of Red Cross warned Monday.

A majority of Rohingyas in the refugee camp in Cox's Bazar area in southeast Bangladesh are at risk during the cyclone season owing to the deteriorating conditions of their makeshift homes, the International Federation of Red Cross warned Monday. A statement by the Geneva-based nonprofit warned that 82 per cent of these refugees - 574,000 out of a total of 700,000 - live in homes built with bamboo and shredded plastic that is now battered, putting them at great risk during the approaching cyclone season, that will be accompanied by heavy rainfall and extreme temperatures. "Housing conditions in these camps are basic. However, after 18 months, they have dramatically deteriorated, leaving people worryingly exposed," head of the IFRC country office in Bangladesh, Azmat Ulla, said in the statement. "The aid community in Cox's Bazar needs to prioritize repairing and replacing these battered shelters, so that people have some protection against the elements, and are provided with at least some basic comfort and dignity," he added. Last week, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugee said it would raise $920 million in a new plan to help the 900,000 Rohingya refugees living in Bangladesh. Over half the money, also meant to assist 330,000 vulnerable Bangladeshi hosts, will be used to meet basic needs such as food, water, sanitation and shelter of the refugees, who escaped to Bangladesh from Myanmar's Rakhine state. Since August 2017, Myanmar's Rakhine state has seen the exodus of more than 745,000 members of the mostly Muslim ethnic minority group, after the army launched a military offensive following attacks by Rohingya rebels on government posts in the region. An additional 200,000 Rohingyas - one of the most persecuted communities in the world - had fled to Bangladesh before the 2017 crisis erupted. Most of the refugees live under harsh conditions in Cox's Bazar area near the Myanmar border, making it the world's largest refugee camp. Myanmar does not recognize the Rohingyas as citizens and considers them Bangladeshi immigrants limiting their movements within the country. In November 2017, Bangladesh and Myanmar had signed an agreement for the repatriation of the Rohingyas, although it is yet to be implemented.

Rohingya refugees at risk as cyclone season nears: Red Cross

The <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmar-army-kills-13-in-counterattacks-on-rakhine-rebels-191279">security forces in Myanmar </a>have bombed villages and are blocking civilians from accessing food and humanitarian assistance amid a crackdown targeting rebels in the troubled<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmar-villagers-flee-fresh-rakhine-state-fighting-enter-bangladesh-195963"> Rakhine State</a>, the Amnesty International said on Monday.

The nonprofit in its latest report citing villagers and local activists said soldiers were also using vague and repressive laws to detain civilians as part of the offensive that began on January 4 when Arakan Army guerrillas raided police stations and killed 13 policemen.

At least 5,200 people, according to the United Nations, have been displaced by the fighting after the army launched the operation to annihilate insurgents, described as terrorists by the government.

"These latest operations are yet another reminder that the Myanmar military operates without any regard for human rights. Shelling inhabited villages and withholding food supplies are unjustifiable under any circumstances," said Tirana Hassan, Director of Crisis Response at Amnesty International.

Hassan accused the Myanmar authorities of "deliberately playing with the lives and livelihoods of civilians".

"As we've seen time and again, the military's priority is not to protect people in the crossfire, but rather to hide their abuses from the international community."

Amnesty reported said that artillery or mortar shells have forced people out of their homes and they return to find their properties looted and damaged.

Authorities have established restrictions on the entry of humanitarian aid from international agencies, except the Red Cross and the UN's World Food Program, to five districts where clashes are ongoing, according to the rights group.

A witness told Amnesty that the army was also imposing restrictions on the purchase and sale of commodities such as rice leading to a lack of supply in some areas.

Citing local activists and media reports, Amnesty said the army was also making arbitrary arrests and at<a href="http://13.232.42.114/south-asia/myanmar-activists-charged-after-protesting-independence-hero-statue-196112"> least 26 people have been arrested</a> for violating the law of illegal association with the Arakan Army, a crime punishable by harsh prison sentences.

The Arakan Army, formed in 2009 to achieve greater autonomy for the Buddhist minority Rakhine, is one of the various rebel groups that have taken up arms in the complex web of conflicts plaguing the country.

Rakhine is home to the Rohingyas, a Muslim-majority community, who have been denied citizenship as the government calls them illegal Bangladeshi immigrants.

More than 723,000 Rohingyas have fled to Bangladesh since August 2017 following an army offensive, which the UN described as an ethnic cleansing and intentional genocide.

The army has denied the accusations and insisted that the operation was in response to an attack by the Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army, a guerrilla group, targeting some 30 police posts on August 25, 2017.

Rakhine, which occupies a long coastal strip in western Myanmar, is an area with rich natural resources and a key geostrategic location, but with also one of the highest rates of poverty in the country.

The security forces in Myanmar have bombed villages and are blocking civilians from accessing food and humanitarian assistance amid a crackdown targeting rebels in the troubled Rakhine State, the Amnesty International said on Monday.

The security forces in Myanmar have bombed villages and are blocking civilians from accessing food and humanitarian assistance amid a crackdown targeting rebels in the troubled Rakhine State, the Amnesty International said on Monday. The nonprofit in its latest report citing villagers and local activists said soldiers were also using vague and repressive laws to detain civilians as part of the offensive that began on January 4 when Arakan Army guerrillas raided police stations and killed 13 policemen. At least 5,200 people, according to the United Nations, have been displaced by the fighting after the army launched the operation to annihilate insurgents, described as terrorists by the government. "These latest operations are yet another reminder that the Myanmar military operates without any regard for human rights. Shelling inhabited villages and withholding food supplies are unjustifiable under any circumstances," said Tirana Hassan, Director of Crisis Response at Amnesty International. Hassan accused the Myanmar authorities of "deliberately playing with the lives and livelihoods of civilians". "As we've seen time and again, the military's priority is not to protect people in the crossfire, but rather to hide their abuses from the international community." Amnesty reported said that artillery or mortar shells have forced people out of their homes and they return to find their properties looted and damaged. Authorities have established restrictions on the entry of humanitarian aid from international agencies, except the Red Cross and the UN's World Food Program, to five districts where clashes are ongoing, according to the rights group. A witness told Amnesty that the army was also imposing restrictions on the purchase and sale of commodities such as rice leading to a lack of supply in some areas. Citing local activists and media reports, Amnesty said the army was also making arbitrary arrests and at least 26 people have been arrested for violating the law of illegal association with the Arakan Army, a crime punishable by harsh prison sentences. The Arakan Army, formed in 2009 to achieve greater autonomy for the Buddhist minority Rakhine, is one of the various rebel groups that have taken up arms in the complex web of conflicts plaguing the country. Rakhine is home to the Rohingyas, a Muslim-majority community, who have been denied citizenship as the government calls them illegal Bangladeshi immigrants. More than 723,000 Rohingyas have fled to Bangladesh since August 2017 following an army offensive, which the UN described as an ethnic cleansing and intentional genocide. The army has denied the accusations and insisted that the operation was in response to an attack by the Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army, a guerrilla group, targeting some 30 police posts on August 25, 2017. Rakhine, which occupies a long coastal strip in western Myanmar, is an area with rich natural resources and a key geostrategic location, but with also one of the highest rates of poverty in the country.

Amnesty says Myanmar army shelling villages, blocking aid in Rakhine

The Red Cross called Friday for a total ban on nuclear weapons, warning of the growing risk that such arms could again be used with devastating effect.&nbsp;

The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) and the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) launched a global campaign to raise awareness about the rising nuclear threat facing the world.

In a joint statement, they said some nuclear-armed states were straying from their "long-standing nuclear disarmament obligations" and were "upgrading their arsenals, developing new kinds of nuclear weapons and making them easier to use."

The notonukes.org campaign comes after the United States and Russia ripped up a key arms control treaty, with US President Donald Trump announcing last week that Washington was beginning a process to withdraw from the Cold War-era agreement in six months.&nbsp;

Russian President Vladimir Putin quickly followed suit, saying Moscow was leaving the treaty and would begin work on new types of weapons not permitted under the 1987 deal.

"Seventy-four years after nuclear weapons obliterated the Japanese cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, the risk that nuclear weapons will again be used is growing," the Red Cross organisations warned.

The notonukes campaign was launched with a video depicting two friends on a beach discussing whether they would want to live of die if a nuclear bomb were to explode.

One said he would want to live, because life is full of so many beautiful things, like spending time with his family, feeling the sun on his face and falling in love. The other said he would prefer to die, because after the bomb, none of those things would be possible.

The video ends with a call to action: "Let's decide the future of nuclear weapons before they decide ours".&nbsp;

The Red Cross said the campaign aimed to shine a light on the "catastrophic humanitarian consequences of a nuclear war".

It also aims to encourage people to lobby their governments to sign and ratify the UN Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons (TPNW), which has so far been signed by 70 nations and ratified by 21.

"Any risk of nuclear weapons use is unacceptable," ICRC President Peter Maurer said in the statement, stressing that the TPNW "represents a beacon of hope and an essential measure to reduce the risk of a nuclear catastrophe."

"At this moment of growing international tension, I call on everyone to act with urgency and determination to bring the era of nuclear weapons to an end," he said.

The Red Cross called Friday for a total ban on nuclear weapons, warning of the growing risk that such arms could again be used with devastating effect. The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) and the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) launched a global campaign to raise awareness about the rising nuclear threat facing the world.

The Red Cross called Friday for a total ban on nuclear weapons, warning of the growing risk that such arms could again be used with devastating effect. The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) and the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) launched a global campaign to raise awareness about the rising nuclear threat facing the world. In a joint statement, they said some nuclear-armed states were straying from their "long-standing nuclear disarmament obligations" and were "upgrading their arsenals, developing new kinds of nuclear weapons and making them easier to use." The notonukes.org campaign comes after the United States and Russia ripped up a key arms control treaty, with US President Donald Trump announcing last week that Washington was beginning a process to withdraw from the Cold War-era agreement in six months. Russian President Vladimir Putin quickly followed suit, saying Moscow was leaving the treaty and would begin work on new types of weapons not permitted under the 1987 deal. "Seventy-four years after nuclear weapons obliterated the Japanese cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, the risk that nuclear weapons will again be used is growing," the Red Cross organisations warned. The notonukes campaign was launched with a video depicting two friends on a beach discussing whether they would want to live of die if a nuclear bomb were to explode. One said he would want to live, because life is full of so many beautiful things, like spending time with his family, feeling the sun on his face and falling in love. The other said he would prefer to die, because after the bomb, none of those things would be possible. The video ends with a call to action: "Let's decide the future of nuclear weapons before they decide ours". The Red Cross said the campaign aimed to shine a light on the "catastrophic humanitarian consequences of a nuclear war". It also aims to encourage people to lobby their governments to sign and ratify the UN Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons (TPNW), which has so far been signed by 70 nations and ratified by 21. "Any risk of nuclear weapons use is unacceptable," ICRC President Peter Maurer said in the statement, stressing that the TPNW "represents a beacon of hope and an essential measure to reduce the risk of a nuclear catastrophe." "At this moment of growing international tension, I call on everyone to act with urgency and determination to bring the era of nuclear weapons to an end," he said.

Red Cross warns of 'growing' risk of nuclear weapons, urges ban

Nineteen people remain unaccounted for two days after Somali militants attacked a hotel complex in Nairobi and killed at least 21 people, the Red Cross said on Thursday, raising the possibility of a considerably higher death toll.

Al Shabaab, a Somalia-based al Qaeda affiliate fighting to impose strict Islamic law, said it carried the assault on the upscale dusitD2 compound over US&nbsp;President Donald Trump's decision to recognise Jerusalem as Israel's capital. It

Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta said on Wednesday evening that a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/911-american-survivor-killed-in-kenya-hotel-attack-190845">20-hour siege</a> had ended with security forces killing all the Somali militants who had stormed the hotel complex, driving hundreds of people into <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/nairobi-attack-over-after-20-hour-siege-as-jihadists-killed-14-dead-president-kenyatta-190750">terrifying escapes</a>.

The Red Cross had on Wednesday afternoon put the number of those unaccounted for at 50.

In a statement some hours later, it said the number of people still unaccounted for had dropped to 19.

Kenya, the East African hub for multinational companies and the United Nations, became a frequent target for al Shabaab after Kenya sent troops into neighbouring Somalia in 2011 to try to create a buffer zone along its border.

In a two-page statement claiming responsibility for the attack, al Shabaab did not spell out why it had chosen to hit Kenya over Trump's December 2017 decision on Jerusalem.

It said the attack was "a response to the witless remarks of U.S. president, Donald Trump, and his declaration", and that it was targeting "Western and Zionist interests worldwide and in support of our Muslim families in Palestine".

Asked about the claim, a White House National Security Council spokesman said in a statement: "This senseless act is a stark reminder of why the United States remains resolved in our fight to defeat radical Islamist terrorism."

The bloody bodies of five attackers were broadcast across social media as Kenyatta announced the end of the siege, which echoed a 2013 al Shabaab assault that killed 67 people in the Westgate shopping centre in the same district.

Sixteen Kenyans including a policeman, an American survivor of the Sept. 11, 2001 al Qaeda attacks on the United States, and a British development worker were among the dead in the hotel complex, Nairobi police chief Joseph Boinnet said.

Nineteen people remain unaccounted for two days after Somali militants attacked a hotel complex in Nairobi and killed at least 21 people, the Red Cross said on Thursday, raising the possibility of a considerably higher death toll.

Nineteen people remain unaccounted for two days after Somali militants attacked a hotel complex in Nairobi and killed at least 21 people, the Red Cross said on Thursday, raising the possibility of a considerably higher death toll. Al Shabaab, a Somalia-based al Qaeda affiliate fighting to impose strict Islamic law, said it carried the assault on the upscale dusitD2 compound over US President Donald Trump's decision to recognise Jerusalem as Israel's capital. It Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta said on Wednesday evening that a 20-hour siege had ended with security forces killing all the Somali militants who had stormed the hotel complex, driving hundreds of people into terrifying escapes. The Red Cross had on Wednesday afternoon put the number of those unaccounted for at 50. In a statement some hours later, it said the number of people still unaccounted for had dropped to 19. Kenya, the East African hub for multinational companies and the United Nations, became a frequent target for al Shabaab after Kenya sent troops into neighbouring Somalia in 2011 to try to create a buffer zone along its border. In a two-page statement claiming responsibility for the attack, al Shabaab did not spell out why it had chosen to hit Kenya over Trump's December 2017 decision on Jerusalem. It said the attack was "a response to the witless remarks of U.S. president, Donald Trump, and his declaration", and that it was targeting "Western and Zionist interests worldwide and in support of our Muslim families in Palestine". Asked about the claim, a White House National Security Council spokesman said in a statement: "This senseless act is a stark reminder of why the United States remains resolved in our fight to defeat radical Islamist terrorism." The bloody bodies of five attackers were broadcast across social media as Kenyatta announced the end of the siege, which echoed a 2013 al Shabaab assault that killed 67 people in the Westgate shopping centre in the same district. Sixteen Kenyans including a policeman, an American survivor of the Sept. 11, 2001 al Qaeda attacks on the United States, and a British development worker were among the dead in the hotel complex, Nairobi police chief Joseph Boinnet said.

Kenya hotel attack: 19 people still missing, says Red Cross

The Taliban have reinstated a security guarantee in Afghanistan for the International Committee for Red Cross (ICRC), two months after withdrawing safe passage for the neutral humanitarian agency, the militant group and an ICRC official said on Friday.

A meeting in the Taliban's Qatar-based political office between its leaders and agency officials ended with the renewal of a pact allowing the agency to continue to provide, and expand, medical aid to all parties harmed by warfare.

"The security agreement...is once again reinstated and calls on all mujahideen to grant access...and provide security for the personnel and equipment of this organization," the Taliban said in a statement, referring to its members.

The Taliban leadership in Doha discussed the humanitarian situation and security concerns before renewing the pledge, said Andrea Catta Preta, the ICRC's spokeswoman in the Afghan capital.

"We told the Taliban leaders about our support to all prisoners in Afghanistan jails, we explained our medical programs," she added. "Finally, we reached an understanding."

In August, the Taliban had accused the Red Cross of failing to provide adequate medical aid to prisoners on a hunger strike in Kabul's Pul-e Charkhi prison and withdrew the security cover.

The decision forced the ICRC to suspend several emergency programs in Afghanistan, where it has had a presence for three decades and about 1,000 staff. Last year it scaled back operations after attacks killed seven of its staff.

The ICRC treats all parties harmed by warfare and does not take sides. It operates in Taliban-controlled areas with guarantees of safety and helps to repatriate bodies from both sides after fighting between the militants and the Afghan army.

The Taliban have reinstated a security guarantee in Afghanistan for the International Committee for Red Cross (ICRC), two months after withdrawing safe passage for the neutral humanitarian agency, the militant group and an ICRC official said on Friday.

The Taliban have reinstated a security guarantee in Afghanistan for the International Committee for Red Cross (ICRC), two months after withdrawing safe passage for the neutral humanitarian agency, the militant group and an ICRC official said on Friday. A meeting in the Taliban's Qatar-based political office between its leaders and agency officials ended with the renewal of a pact allowing the agency to continue to provide, and expand, medical aid to all parties harmed by warfare. "The security agreement...is once again reinstated and calls on all mujahideen to grant access...and provide security for the personnel and equipment of this organization," the Taliban said in a statement, referring to its members. The Taliban leadership in Doha discussed the humanitarian situation and security concerns before renewing the pledge, said Andrea Catta Preta, the ICRC's spokeswoman in the Afghan capital. "We told the Taliban leaders about our support to all prisoners in Afghanistan jails, we explained our medical programs," she added. "Finally, we reached an understanding." In August, the Taliban had accused the Red Cross of failing to provide adequate medical aid to prisoners on a hunger strike in Kabul's Pul-e Charkhi prison and withdrew the security cover. The decision forced the ICRC to suspend several emergency programs in Afghanistan, where it has had a presence for three decades and about 1,000 staff. Last year it scaled back operations after attacks killed seven of its staff. The ICRC treats all parties harmed by warfare and does not take sides. It operates in Taliban-controlled areas with guarantees of safety and helps to repatriate bodies from both sides after fighting between the militants and the Afghan army.

Taliban restore Red Cross security guarantee in Afghanistan

Guatemalan officials warned of falling ash from the Fuego volcano late on Thursday and urged caution with flights as the Central American country recovers from devastating eruptions that have killed at least 109 people.

The seismological, volcanic and meteorological institute Insivumeh advised the civil aviation authority to take precautions with flights amid renewed activity from the peak, which produced a massive eruption on Sunday.

The death toll from Fuego's most violent eruption in four decades has been gradually rising and now stands at 109, Guatemala's disaster and forensic agency Inacif said earlier on Thursday.

Authorities have said a communication breakdown between CONRED and volcanologists in Guatemala delayed evacuations from the surrounding area.

Guatemala's public prosecutor said on Thursday it would open an investigation into whether protocols were followed to inform proper decision-making in the handling of the disaster.

Rescue teams have been searching frantically for survivors and victims in the ravaged landscape, which is covered in ash and lava.

The eruptions have showered volcanic ash over a vast area and spewed deadly, fast-moving pyroclastic flows through nearby towns.

The US&nbsp;government expressed its "deepest condolences" to the victims on Thursday and said it was sending emergency aid at Guatemala's request, including an unspecified amount of financial resources to help with food, water, and sanitation.

The White House said in a statement it was also dispatching aircraft to transport burn victims for treatment in Florida.

The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) raised concerns about the economic cost of the disaster in the poor country.

"We should not underestimate the scale of this disaster. Critical, emergency needs are still enormous, and affected communities will need sustained and long-term support," IFRC President Francesco Rocca said in a statement on Thursday.

Rocca noted that ash had fallen across more than half of Guatemala, covering areas where agriculture is crucial.

"We hope it will not mean a secondary disaster," he said.

The IFRC has pledged more than 250,000 Swiss francs ($253,000) to support rescue efforts and said those worst hit would need at least a year to recover.

The suspension of rescue efforts around the volcano may be lifted if conditions on the ground improve, CONRED said.

Volcan de Fuego, which means "Volcano of Fire" in Spanish, lies about 25 miles (40 km) southwest of the capital, Guatemala City.

The death toll from Fuego's most violent eruption in four decades has been gradually rising and now stands at 109

Guatemalan officials warned of falling ash from the Fuego volcano late on Thursday and urged caution with flights as the Central American country recovers from devastating eruptions that have killed at least 109 people. The seismological, volcanic and meteorological institute Insivumeh advised the civil aviation authority to take precautions with flights amid renewed activity from the peak, which produced a massive eruption on Sunday. The death toll from Fuego's most violent eruption in four decades has been gradually rising and now stands at 109, Guatemala's disaster and forensic agency Inacif said earlier on Thursday. Authorities have said a communication breakdown between CONRED and volcanologists in Guatemala delayed evacuations from the surrounding area. Guatemala's public prosecutor said on Thursday it would open an investigation into whether protocols were followed to inform proper decision-making in the handling of the disaster. Rescue teams have been searching frantically for survivors and victims in the ravaged landscape, which is covered in ash and lava. The eruptions have showered volcanic ash over a vast area and spewed deadly, fast-moving pyroclastic flows through nearby towns. The US government expressed its "deepest condolences" to the victims on Thursday and said it was sending emergency aid at Guatemala's request, including an unspecified amount of financial resources to help with food, water, and sanitation. The White House said in a statement it was also dispatching aircraft to transport burn victims for treatment in Florida. The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) raised concerns about the economic cost of the disaster in the poor country. "We should not underestimate the scale of this disaster. Critical, emergency needs are still enormous, and affected communities will need sustained and long-term support," IFRC President Francesco Rocca said in a statement on Thursday. Rocca noted that ash had fallen across more than half of Guatemala, covering areas where agriculture is crucial. "We hope it will not mean a secondary disaster," he said. The IFRC has pledged more than 250,000 Swiss francs ($253,000) to support rescue efforts and said those worst hit would need at least a year to recover. The suspension of rescue efforts around the volcano may be lifted if conditions on the ground improve, CONRED said. Volcan de Fuego, which means "Volcano of Fire" in Spanish, lies about 25 miles (40 km) southwest of the capital, Guatemala City.

Guatemala warns of falling ash as volcanic activity picks up

Forty-eight people died in northern <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/22-killed-as-uganda-bus-rams-into-tractor-and-truck-139960">Uganda when a bus hit a tractor</a> driving with no lights at night and then a truck, the Red Cross said Saturday, but police put the toll at 22.

"Evacuation teams are working tirelessly to rescue the injured", said Ugandan police spokesman Emilian Kayima, adding that all three drivers had died.

"The death toll is now at 48 including 16 children," Red Cross spokeswoman Irene Nakasiita told AFP.

But Kayima said 22 people had died, including three children, and 14 had been injured. He said the injured had been transported to Kampala by helicopter for treatment. &nbsp

The accident was one of the deadliest in Uganda in recent years and happened on Friday night in Kiryandongo, about 220 kilometres (140 miles) north of the capital Kampala.&nbsp

The bus, which left the town of Lira, first hit the tractor from the back before slamming into a truck transporting beer.

Local media said the death toll exceeded 30.

Uganda has one of the worst records for road safety, due to the poor condition of vehicles and roads as well as dangerous driving.

More than 9,500 people died in road accidents in the country between 2015 and 2017, according to figures from the transport ministry, with the situation worsening each year.

A UN report last year said 10 people die on Ugandan roads every day and that road accident cost the country $ 1.2 billion (about one billion euros) -- or five percent of its Gross Domestic Product.&nbsp

In 2015, President Yoweri Museveni personally sacked 900 officials in charge of building and making roads, holding them accountable for the abysmal state of the network.&nbsp

Forty-eight people died in northern Uganda when a bus hit a tractor driving with no lights at night and then a truck, the Red Cross said

Forty-eight people died in northern Uganda when a bus hit a tractor driving with no lights at night and then a truck, the Red Cross said Saturday, but police put the toll at 22. "Evacuation teams are working tirelessly to rescue the injured", said Ugandan police spokesman Emilian Kayima, adding that all three drivers had died. "The death toll is now at 48 including 16 children," Red Cross spokeswoman Irene Nakasiita told AFP. But Kayima said 22 people had died, including three children, and 14 had been injured. He said the injured had been transported to Kampala by helicopter for treatment. The accident was one of the deadliest in Uganda in recent years and happened on Friday night in Kiryandongo, about 220 kilometres (140 miles) north of the capital Kampala. The bus, which left the town of Lira, first hit the tractor from the back before slamming into a truck transporting beer. Local media said the death toll exceeded 30. Uganda has one of the worst records for road safety, due to the poor condition of vehicles and roads as well as dangerous driving. More than 9,500 people died in road accidents in the country between 2015 and 2017, according to figures from the transport ministry, with the situation worsening each year. A UN report last year said 10 people die on Ugandan roads every day and that road accident cost the country $ 1.2 billion (about one billion euros) -- or five percent of its Gross Domestic Product. In 2015, President Yoweri Museveni personally sacked 900 officials in charge of building and making roads, holding them accountable for the abysmal state of the network.

Up to 48 killed as Uganda bus rams into tractor and truck

Two passenger trains collided near a station north of Austria&#39;s capital Vienna, injuring several people.

The two regional trains collided near the station in Kritzendorf.

Local media reported a&nbsp;S40 high-speed train collided with a REX train on a four-track section.

The Red Cross and Austria&#39;s federal railway said eight people were wounded and another four were more seriously injured, the Austrian Press Agency reported.

&quot;Thank God there are no fatalities. I would like to thank all those who have been on the ground and helped,&quot; with response efforts, reported Sputnik News quoting infrastructure minister and former president of Austria&#39;s National Council Norbert Hofer, as saying.

There is no immediate information available about the cause.

The two regional trains collided near the station in Kritzendorf

Two passenger trains collided near a station north of Austria's capital Vienna, injuring several people. The two regional trains collided near the station in Kritzendorf. Local media reported a S40 high-speed train collided with a REX train on a four-track section. The Red Cross and Austria's federal railway said eight people were wounded and another four were more seriously injured, the Austrian Press Agency reported. "Thank God there are no fatalities. I would like to thank all those who have been on the ground and helped," with response efforts, reported Sputnik News quoting infrastructure minister and former president of Austria's National Council Norbert Hofer, as saying. There is no immediate information available about the cause.

Several injured as trains collide near Vienna

Rohingya Muslims remaining in Myanmar&#39;s Rakhine state and other communities in the violence-racked region are so terrified of each other that life has basically ground to a halt, the Red Cross said Wednesday.

More than 620,000 of Myanmar&#39;s Muslim minority have <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/rohingya-refugees-still-fleeing-from-myanmar-to-bangladesh-unhcr-26177">fled across the border to Bangladesh </a>since late August when the Myanmar army launched a sweeping crackdown on Rohingya rebels in northern Rakhine state.

The Red Cross, the only international aid organisation with broad access on the ground in Rakhine, estimates that only about 300,000 Rohingya remain in the entire state.

But Dominik Stillhart, director of operations at the International Committee of the Red Cross, said the number should be taken with a &quot;big pinch of salt&quot; since a proper count has so far been impossible.

Speaking to reporters in Geneva after a three-day visit to the area, Stillhart said the situation in Rakhine appeared to have &quot;stabilised&quot;, with few incidents of violence.

Yet people are continuing to flee, with around 300 still crossing the border each day, mainly because of fear and anxiety for the future, he said.

He said he was especially struck by a lack of people on the roads, in the markets and out in the fields.

&quot;Life has stopped in its tracks... There are hardly any people moving around and you can really see that life has come to a halt,&quot; Stillhart said.

&#39;Scale of destruction&#39; 
 
While it was no surprise that the remaining Rohingya are living in fear, he said it was striking that Buddhist populations in neighbouring villages also appeared to be frightened.

&quot;You really get a sense that both communities are deeply scared of each other,&quot; he said.

The United Nations has warned that abuses against the Rohingya in Myanmar could amount to ethnic cleansing.

Stillhart refrained from commenting on the abuses but did say he had personally seen several burned villages.

&quot;You really see on both sides of the road, villages that are completely destroyed. It just gives you a bit of a sense of the scale of destruction,&quot; he said.

Meanwhile, Red Cross staff in the area had not seen many wounded people in the hospitals, and surprisingly few people appeared to have been rounded up and detained, he said.

&quot;Apparently there wasn&#39;t a huge wave of people arrested. The wave is out to Bangladesh, and not into the detention centres.&quot;

Stillhart also said the area did not seem heavily militarised at the moment, and there was no indication troops or police were restricting people&#39;s movement.

Rather, it appeared that people were restricting their own movement, he said.

&quot;People are deeply traumatised by what has happened and they are full of fear and anxiety,&quot; he said, emphasising the need for &quot;a very clear message from the authorities that it is fine&quot; to move about and that all communities &quot;will be protected&quot;.

Until then, any large return movement from Bangladesh is unlikely.

Myanmar and Bangladesh signed a repatriation deal last month, but so far, Stillhart said, basically no Muslims have returned home.

There has been concern that Myanmar is planning to build camps to house returnees, as they did in central Rakhine state after a 2012 outbreak of violence.&nbsp;

More than 100,000 Rohingya have been trapped in those squalid camps ever since.

&quot;One thing that we definitely don&#39;t wish to see is people being in camps,&quot; Stillhart said, saying the camps in central Rakhine were &quot;clearly not a model to follow.&quot;&nbsp;

Rohingya Muslims remaining in Myanmar's Rakhine state and other communities in the violence-racked region are so terrified of each other that life has basically ground to a halt, the Red Cross says

Rohingya Muslims remaining in Myanmar's Rakhine state and other communities in the violence-racked region are so terrified of each other that life has basically ground to a halt, the Red Cross said Wednesday. More than 620,000 of Myanmar's Muslim minority have fled across the border to Bangladesh since late August when the Myanmar army launched a sweeping crackdown on Rohingya rebels in northern Rakhine state. The Red Cross, the only international aid organisation with broad access on the ground in Rakhine, estimates that only about 300,000 Rohingya remain in the entire state. But Dominik Stillhart, director of operations at the International Committee of the Red Cross, said the number should be taken with a "big pinch of salt" since a proper count has so far been impossible. Speaking to reporters in Geneva after a three-day visit to the area, Stillhart said the situation in Rakhine appeared to have "stabilised", with few incidents of violence. Yet people are continuing to flee, with around 300 still crossing the border each day, mainly because of fear and anxiety for the future, he said. He said he was especially struck by a lack of people on the roads, in the markets and out in the fields. "Life has stopped in its tracks... There are hardly any people moving around and you can really see that life has come to a halt," Stillhart said. 'Scale of destruction' While it was no surprise that the remaining Rohingya are living in fear, he said it was striking that Buddhist populations in neighbouring villages also appeared to be frightened. "You really get a sense that both communities are deeply scared of each other," he said. The United Nations has warned that abuses against the Rohingya in Myanmar could amount to ethnic cleansing. Stillhart refrained from commenting on the abuses but did say he had personally seen several burned villages. "You really see on both sides of the road, villages that are completely destroyed. It just gives you a bit of a sense of the scale of destruction," he said. Meanwhile, Red Cross staff in the area had not seen many wounded people in the hospitals, and surprisingly few people appeared to have been rounded up and detained, he said. "Apparently there wasn't a huge wave of people arrested. The wave is out to Bangladesh, and not into the detention centres." Stillhart also said the area did not seem heavily militarised at the moment, and there was no indication troops or police were restricting people's movement. Rather, it appeared that people were restricting their own movement, he said. "People are deeply traumatised by what has happened and they are full of fear and anxiety," he said, emphasising the need for "a very clear message from the authorities that it is fine" to move about and that all communities "will be protected". Until then, any large return movement from Bangladesh is unlikely. Myanmar and Bangladesh signed a repatriation deal last month, but so far, Stillhart said, basically no Muslims have returned home. There has been concern that Myanmar is planning to build camps to house returnees, as they did in central Rakhine state after a 2012 outbreak of violence. More than 100,000 Rohingya have been trapped in those squalid camps ever since. "One thing that we definitely don't wish to see is people being in camps," Stillhart said, saying the camps in central Rakhine were "clearly not a model to follow."

Life has 'stopped in tracks' in Myanmar's Rakhine state: Red Cross

A large explosion rocked one of Europe&#39;s biggest gas pipeline hubs in Austria on Tuesday, leaving one person dead and 18 injured, emergency services said.

Photos showed a huge tower of orange flame visible for miles around roaring out of the Baumgarten facility some 50 kilometres (30 miles) east of Vienna near the Slovak border.

&quot;An explosion occurred at 8:45 am (0745 GMT), followed by a fire,&quot; police spokesman Edmund Tragschitz told AFP.

He later put the number of people hurt, including one seriously as well as those with minor injuries, at around 60.

But Red Cross spokeswoman Sonja Kellner told the Austria Press Agency that one person had been killed and 18 were injured, one of them seriously who has since been airlifted to hospital in Vienna.

&quot;I heard a huge explosion and thought at first it was a plane crash,&quot; photographer Thomas Hulik, a resident of a nearby village in Slovakia, told AFP.

&quot;Then I saw an immense ball of flame,&quot; he said.

Armin Teichert, a spokesman for the site&#39;s operator Gas Connect Austria, said that the site had been evacuated and that the facility had been put into &quot;security mode&quot;.

The material damage is &quot;major,&quot; Teichert told AFP.

Police said on social media that people should avoid the area.

Media reports said that more than 200 fire fighters from several brigades in the surrounding area were called in to help, as well as a number of air ambulances.

Lower Austria state police said on Twitter that the situation was &quot;under control&quot;.

&quot;Fire services are currently engaged in putting out the fire following the explosion. Emergency services are treating the wounded,&quot; the statement said.

An AFP journalist nearby said that by late morning the flames had been extinguished but there was still a huge cloud of smoke over the site.

Other photos showed the heat from the blast was so extreme that cars parked at the site partially melted.

&#39;Technical&#39; cause 
Police added that the cause of the incident was a &quot;technical&quot; one and the local authorities had begun an investigation.

The Baumgarten site is Austria&#39;s largest reception point for gas, the end-point for a number of pipelines bringing it in from Russia, Norway and elsewhere.

It receives some 40 billion cubic metres of gas annually and redistributes it elsewhere in Europe including to Germany and northern Italy.

Teichert, the Gas Connect Austria spokesman, said that there could be interruptions in supply to Italy and Croatia, but not to elsewhere.

Russian gas giant Gazprom, which relies on the Baumgarten site to send gas to clients around Europe said in a statement that it was aware of the incident.

&quot;Currently the company is working on redistribution of gas flows and (doing) its best to secure uninterrupted gas supplies to the clients on this transport direction,&quot; Gazprom said.

Photos showed a huge tower of orange flame visible for miles around roaring out of the Baumgarten facility some 50 kilometres east of Vienna near the Slovak border

A large explosion rocked one of Europe's biggest gas pipeline hubs in Austria on Tuesday, leaving one person dead and 18 injured, emergency services said. Photos showed a huge tower of orange flame visible for miles around roaring out of the Baumgarten facility some 50 kilometres (30 miles) east of Vienna near the Slovak border. "An explosion occurred at 8:45 am (0745 GMT), followed by a fire," police spokesman Edmund Tragschitz told AFP. He later put the number of people hurt, including one seriously as well as those with minor injuries, at around 60. But Red Cross spokeswoman Sonja Kellner told the Austria Press Agency that one person had been killed and 18 were injured, one of them seriously who has since been airlifted to hospital in Vienna. "I heard a huge explosion and thought at first it was a plane crash," photographer Thomas Hulik, a resident of a nearby village in Slovakia, told AFP. "Then I saw an immense ball of flame," he said. Armin Teichert, a spokesman for the site's operator Gas Connect Austria, said that the site had been evacuated and that the facility had been put into "security mode". The material damage is "major," Teichert told AFP. Police said on social media that people should avoid the area. Media reports said that more than 200 fire fighters from several brigades in the surrounding area were called in to help, as well as a number of air ambulances. Lower Austria state police said on Twitter that the situation was "under control". "Fire services are currently engaged in putting out the fire following the explosion. Emergency services are treating the wounded," the statement said. An AFP journalist nearby said that by late morning the flames had been extinguished but there was still a huge cloud of smoke over the site. Other photos showed the heat from the blast was so extreme that cars parked at the site partially melted. 'Technical' cause Police added that the cause of the incident was a "technical" one and the local authorities had begun an investigation. The Baumgarten site is Austria's largest reception point for gas, the end-point for a number of pipelines bringing it in from Russia, Norway and elsewhere. It receives some 40 billion cubic metres of gas annually and redistributes it elsewhere in Europe including to Germany and northern Italy. Teichert, the Gas Connect Austria spokesman, said that there could be interruptions in supply to Italy and Croatia, but not to elsewhere. Russian gas giant Gazprom, which relies on the Baumgarten site to send gas to clients around Europe said in a statement that it was aware of the incident. "Currently the company is working on redistribution of gas flows and (doing) its best to secure uninterrupted gas supplies to the clients on this transport direction," Gazprom said.

Explosion at major Austrian gas hub, one dead, 18 injured

16 million people have been affected by <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/heavy-floods-in-bihar-14000-people-evacuated-19094">monsoon floods in India</a>,<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nepal-floods-suspension-bridge-collapses-death-toll-mounts-to-64-3414"> Nepal</a>, and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/at-least-221-dead-in-india-bangladesh-nepal-floods-19016">Bangladesh</a>, the Red Cross said on Friday, calling the situation &ldquo;a humanitarian crisis&rdquo; in South Asia.&nbsp;

&ldquo;This is fast becoming one of the most serious humanitarian crises this region has seen in many years and urgent action is needed to meet the growing needs of millions of people affected by these devastating floods,&rdquo; deputy regional director for Asia Pacific, International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, Martin Faller, said in a statement.&nbsp;&ldquo;Millions of people across Nepal, Bangladesh, and India face severe food shortages and disease caused by polluted flood waters,&rdquo; Faller said.

11 million people in <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/devastating-floods-in-india-leave-300-dead-force-villagers-into-relief-camps-5452">India have been affected by floods</a> in four states across the north, the statement said.

Citing local authorities, the statement also said that flood levels have already reached record highs in Bangladesh.&nbsp;

Major rivers like the Jamuna have crossed levels set in 1988, when the country saw its deadliest floods.&nbsp;

&ldquo;More than one third of Bangladesh and Nepal have been flooded and we fear the humanitarian crisis will get worse in the days and weeks ahead,&rdquo; Faller said.

Red Cross said that many areas in Nepal remain cut off after the latest destructive floods and landslides.&nbsp;

The statement said many villages have no food, water, and electricity.&nbsp;

&ldquo;This tragic flooding in Nepal has claimed at least 128 lives and 33 people are still missing,&rdquo; &nbsp;Dev Ratna Dhakhwa, secretary general, Nepal Red Cross Society said.&nbsp;

&ldquo;More than 500 Nepal Red Cross volunteers are racing aid to people, including tarpaulins for temporary shelter, food and water. Food crops have been wiped out by the floods in Nepal&rsquo;s major farming and agricultural lands in the south of the country. We fear that this destruction will lead to severe food shortages.&quot;

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11 million people in India have been affected by floods

16 million people have been affected by monsoon floods in India, Nepal, and Bangladesh, the Red Cross said on Friday, calling the situation “a humanitarian crisis” in South Asia. “This is fast becoming one of the most serious humanitarian crises this region has seen in many years and urgent action is needed to meet the growing needs of millions of people affected by these devastating floods,” deputy regional director for Asia Pacific, International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, Martin Faller, said in a statement. “Millions of people across Nepal, Bangladesh, and India face severe food shortages and disease caused by polluted flood waters,” Faller said. 11 million people in India have been affected by floods in four states across the north, the statement said. Citing local authorities, the statement also said that flood levels have already reached record highs in Bangladesh. Major rivers like the Jamuna have crossed levels set in 1988, when the country saw its deadliest floods. “More than one third of Bangladesh and Nepal have been flooded and we fear the humanitarian crisis will get worse in the days and weeks ahead,” Faller said. Red Cross said that many areas in Nepal remain cut off after the latest destructive floods and landslides. The statement said many villages have no food, water, and electricity. “This tragic flooding in Nepal has claimed at least 128 lives and 33 people are still missing,” Dev Ratna Dhakhwa, secretary general, Nepal Red Cross Society said. “More than 500 Nepal Red Cross volunteers are racing aid to people, including tarpaulins for temporary shelter, food and water. Food crops have been wiped out by the floods in Nepal’s major farming and agricultural lands in the south of the country. We fear that this destruction will lead to severe food shortages."

16 million people in South Asia affected by floods: Red Cross

At least 25,000 people have left the bombed-out eastern districts of Syria&#39;s Aleppo since evacuations began last week, the International Committee of the Red Cross said on Tuesday.

&quot;Yesterday (Monday) only, we evacuated 15,000 people from east Aleppo. If we consider those evacuated on Thursday too, then the total should be 25,000,&quot; spokeswoman Ingy Sedky told AFP.

She said &quot;thousands&quot; of others were still waiting to be bussed out, amid a lack of information on the numbers of civilians and fighters remaining in east Aleppo.

The ICRC has been overseeing the complex evacuation deal for Aleppo, brokered by government backer Russia and rebel supporter Turkey,&nbsp;

After a month-long assault by government forces, thousands of civilians and rebels left the last remaining opposition-held districts of east Aleppo last Thursday at the start of the evacuations.

The deal was suspended until early Monday over government demands for the simultaneous evacuation of two Shiite-majority villages in northwest Syria besieged by rebels.&nbsp;

Sedky confirmed that 750 people had thus far been bussed out of the villages of Fuaa and Kafraya, in Syria&#39;s mainly rebel-held Idlib province, as part of the deal.&nbsp;

More than 310,000 people have been killed since Syria&#39;s conflict erupted in March 2011 with protests demanding the ouster of President Bashar al-Assad.

(AFP)

Red Cross spokeswoman Ingy Sedky told AFP 15,000 people were evacuated from east Aleppo on Monday alone

At least 25,000 people have left the bombed-out eastern districts of Syria's Aleppo since evacuations began last week, the International Committee of the Red Cross said on Tuesday. "Yesterday (Monday) only, we evacuated 15,000 people from east Aleppo. If we consider those evacuated on Thursday too, then the total should be 25,000," spokeswoman Ingy Sedky told AFP. She said "thousands" of others were still waiting to be bussed out, amid a lack of information on the numbers of civilians and fighters remaining in east Aleppo. The ICRC has been overseeing the complex evacuation deal for Aleppo, brokered by government backer Russia and rebel supporter Turkey, After a month-long assault by government forces, thousands of civilians and rebels left the last remaining opposition-held districts of east Aleppo last Thursday at the start of the evacuations. The deal was suspended until early Monday over government demands for the simultaneous evacuation of two Shiite-majority villages in northwest Syria besieged by rebels. Sedky confirmed that 750 people had thus far been bussed out of the villages of Fuaa and Kafraya, in Syria's mainly rebel-held Idlib province, as part of the deal. More than 310,000 people have been killed since Syria's conflict erupted in March 2011 with protests demanding the ouster of President Bashar al-Assad. (AFP)

25,000 evacuated from Aleppo so far: Red Cross

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