A rebel group in Ethiopia's restive Oromia region carried out a "terror attack" this week that killed an unknown number of civilians, officials said Wednesday, while a witness put the death toll in the dozens.

The attack took place in the western part of the Wollega area, where Ethiopian soldiers have been fighting an armed group known as the Oromo Liberation Army (OLA), the Oromia regional government said in a statement.&nbsp;

"Although the (OLA) has been weakened by measures taken by the government together with the community to ensure rule of law, out of a feeling of desperation it continues to carry out attacks on civilians," the statement said.

Oromia communications officials did not respond to requests for comment, and the statement did not provide details on fatalities or how the attack was carried out.&nbsp;

One resident of the Babo-Gembel district where the attack took place told AFP that gunmen arrived after 9:00 pm Tuesday, forced residents to gather outside in a group and shot them dead.

"The place had no security cover from government security forces at the time," said the man, a guard at an Orthodox church, who spoke on condition of anonymity for safety reasons.

"I found 29 bodies lying in one area, while there were other bodies scattered in nearby areas."

- Government 'silence' -

Survivors of similar recent attacks in Oromia -- a region dominated by Ethiopia's largest ethnic group, the Oromos -- have accused OLA fighters of targeting members of the Amhara ethnic group, the second largest.&nbsp;

"There have been at least three occasions before the attack where flyers were distributed in the area calling for Amharas to leave," the security guard said.&nbsp;

Tewodrose Tirfe, chairman of the Amhara Association of America based in Washington, said Wednesday that "in the month of March well over 300 Amharas including women and children have been massacred by the Oromo Liberation Army".

He also accused the government of being "silent" on massacres.

OLA spokesman Odaa Tarbii denied responsibility for the attack, saying on Twitter that an investigation would "100 percent absolve" the group.&nbsp;

In a statement earlier this week he denied it was targeting Amhara civilians.&nbsp;

"The Oromo Liberation Army has never at any time engaged in mass killings or ethnic cleansing," Odaa said.&nbsp;

"There are several thousand Amharas and members of other groups that live peacefully in areas administered by us and they will testify that we do not treat them any differently."

- 'Spreading' insecurity -

The OLA, believed to number in the low thousands, broke off from the Oromo Liberation Front (OLF), an opposition party that spent years in exile but was allowed to return to Ethiopia after Abiy took office in 2018.&nbsp;

No link has been demonstrated between the fighting in Oromia and the ongoing conflict in Ethiopia's northern Tigray region.

Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed's government has described the campaign in Tigray as an operation to detain and disarm leaders of the local ruling party, the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF).&nbsp;

But officials have long accused the TPLF of partnering with the OLA to foment ethnic violence and undermine Abiy's government -- a claim the Oromia regional government reiterated in its statement Wednesday.&nbsp;

The Ethiopian Human Rights Commission, a government-affiliated but independent body, said Wednesday that this week's violence in western Wollega "shows that the security situation in the area has not improved and is instead spreading to neighbouring regions and causing additional human rights violations."

&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

A rebel group in Ethiopia's restive Oromia region carried out a "terror attack" this week that killed an unknown number of civilians, officials said Wednesday, while a witness put the death toll in the dozens.

A rebel group in Ethiopia's restive Oromia region carried out a "terror attack" this week that killed an unknown number of civilians, officials said Wednesday, while a witness put the death toll in the dozens. The attack took place in the western part of the Wollega area, where Ethiopian soldiers have been fighting an armed group known as the Oromo Liberation Army (OLA), the Oromia regional government said in a statement. "Although the (OLA) has been weakened by measures taken by the government together with the community to ensure rule of law, out of a feeling of desperation it continues to carry out attacks on civilians," the statement said. Oromia communications officials did not respond to requests for comment, and the statement did not provide details on fatalities or how the attack was carried out. One resident of the Babo-Gembel district where the attack took place told AFP that gunmen arrived after 9:00 pm Tuesday, forced residents to gather outside in a group and shot them dead. "The place had no security cover from government security forces at the time," said the man, a guard at an Orthodox church, who spoke on condition of anonymity for safety reasons. "I found 29 bodies lying in one area, while there were other bodies scattered in nearby areas." - Government 'silence' - Survivors of similar recent attacks in Oromia -- a region dominated by Ethiopia's largest ethnic group, the Oromos -- have accused OLA fighters of targeting members of the Amhara ethnic group, the second largest. "There have been at least three occasions before the attack where flyers were distributed in the area calling for Amharas to leave," the security guard said. Tewodrose Tirfe, chairman of the Amhara Association of America based in Washington, said Wednesday that "in the month of March well over 300 Amharas including women and children have been massacred by the Oromo Liberation Army". He also accused the government of being "silent" on massacres. OLA spokesman Odaa Tarbii denied responsibility for the attack, saying on Twitter that an investigation would "100 percent absolve" the group. In a statement earlier this week he denied it was targeting Amhara civilians. "The Oromo Liberation Army has never at any time engaged in mass killings or ethnic cleansing," Odaa said. "There are several thousand Amharas and members of other groups that live peacefully in areas administered by us and they will testify that we do not treat them any differently." - 'Spreading' insecurity - The OLA, believed to number in the low thousands, broke off from the Oromo Liberation Front (OLF), an opposition party that spent years in exile but was allowed to return to Ethiopia after Abiy took office in 2018. No link has been demonstrated between the fighting in Oromia and the ongoing conflict in Ethiopia's northern Tigray region. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed's government has described the campaign in Tigray as an operation to detain and disarm leaders of the local ruling party, the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF). But officials have long accused the TPLF of partnering with the OLA to foment ethnic violence and undermine Abiy's government -- a claim the Oromia regional government reiterated in its statement Wednesday. The Ethiopian Human Rights Commission, a government-affiliated but independent body, said Wednesday that this week's violence in western Wollega "shows that the security situation in the area has not improved and is instead spreading to neighbouring regions and causing additional human rights violations." (With inputs from agencies)

Ethiopian rebels blamed for 'terror attack' in restive west

Islamic militants attempted to evacuate people trapped during the attack, causing many casualties in northern Mozambique, with dozens still missing.

Mozambique: Dozens killed in terror attack by 'Islamic state linked terrorists'

A state-run shipping company in Iran has said it would take legal action to identify the perpetrators of an attack on a container ship in the Mediterranean -- what it called 'terrorism and naval piracy'.

The ship, Shahr e Kord, was slightly damaged in Wednesday's incident by an explosive object which caused a small fire, but no one on board was hurt, the spokesman, Ali Ghiasian, said on Friday.

The vessel was headed to Europe when the attack occurred and will leave for its destination after repairs.

"Such terrorist acts amount to naval piracy, and are contrary to international law on commercial shipping security, and legal action will be taken to identify the perpetrators through relevant international institutions," Ghiasian said.

The Iranian-flagged vessel last reported its position off Syria’s coast on March 10 as it headed for the Syrian port of Latakia, Refinitiv ship tracking data showed.

Two maritime security sources said initial indications were that the Iranian container ship had been intentionally targetted by an unknown source.

The incident comes two weeks after an Israeli-owned ship the MV HELIOS RAY was hit by an explosion in the Gulf of Oman.

A US defence official said the blast left holes in both sides of the vessel's hull. Israel accused Iran of being behind the explosion, a charge the Islamic Republic denied.

The vessel, which is among Iranian ships that have been designated by the US under tough sanctions measures, was briefly detained in Libya in 2019.

Israeli officials declined comment on the report. The Israeli navy, whose largest vessels are missile corvettes and five diesel-fueled submarines, is mostly active in the Mediterranean and Red seas.

Israel has separately said it is waging a covert “campaign between wars” to deny Iranian allies on its borders arms and other support from Tehran.

(with inputs)

A state-run shipping company in Iran has said it would take legal action to identify the perpetrators of an attack on a container ship in the Mediterranean -- what it called 'terrorism and naval piracy'.

A state-run shipping company in Iran has said it would take legal action to identify the perpetrators of an attack on a container ship in the Mediterranean -- what it called 'terrorism and naval piracy'. The ship, Shahr e Kord, was slightly damaged in Wednesday's incident by an explosive object which caused a small fire, but no one on board was hurt, the spokesman, Ali Ghiasian, said on Friday. The vessel was headed to Europe when the attack occurred and will leave for its destination after repairs. "Such terrorist acts amount to naval piracy, and are contrary to international law on commercial shipping security, and legal action will be taken to identify the perpetrators through relevant international institutions," Ghiasian said. The Iranian-flagged vessel last reported its position off Syria’s coast on March 10 as it headed for the Syrian port of Latakia, Refinitiv ship tracking data showed. Two maritime security sources said initial indications were that the Iranian container ship had been intentionally targetted by an unknown source. The incident comes two weeks after an Israeli-owned ship the MV HELIOS RAY was hit by an explosion in the Gulf of Oman. A US defence official said the blast left holes in both sides of the vessel's hull. Israel accused Iran of being behind the explosion, a charge the Islamic Republic denied. The vessel, which is among Iranian ships that have been designated by the US under tough sanctions measures, was briefly detained in Libya in 2019. Israeli officials declined comment on the report. The Israeli navy, whose largest vessels are missile corvettes and five diesel-fueled submarines, is mostly active in the Mediterranean and Red seas. Israel has separately said it is waging a covert “campaign between wars” to deny Iranian allies on its borders arms and other support from Tehran. (with inputs)

Iranian ship damaged in Mediterranean, Tehran alleges 'terror' attack

Two policemen died after being shot at close range by a terrorist in Srinagar. The incident, the second such in three days, was captured on CCTV cameras located in the area.

Two policemen shot dead at terror attack in Srinagar, India

The terror attack has taken place in Jammu-Kashmir, India. This comes during the two-day visit of 23 foreign envoys to the Union Territory.

News Alert: Terror attack during visit of 23 foreign envoys in Jammu-Kashmir

Germany has charged five Tajik men with membership of an Islamic State terror cell that recruited members and planned attacks on German soil, prosecutors said on Monday.&nbsp;

A sixth member of the same cell, Ravsan B, was sentenced to seven years in jail in January after being prosecuted separately. &nbsp;

The five men charged on February 1, named as Farhodshoh K, Muhammadali G, Azizjon B, Sunatullokh K and Komron B, are accused of having various roles in the cell founded in January 2019.&nbsp;

"The aim of the cell members, who were in contact with IS leaders in Syria and Afghanistan, was to take up the armed struggle against what they saw as 'infidels' and to commit attacks in Germany," the indictment said.&nbsp;

The men allegedly circulated in the same circles as the Tajik-born perpetrator behind the Stockholm truck attack of April 2017, as well as the Macedonian-Austrian national, who gunned down four people in Vienna in November.&nbsp;

One of them, Azizjon B, is said to have been involved in the same online network used to recruit the Stockholm attacker.&nbsp;

Azizijon B is accused of being an IS member since at least March 2017 and carrying out instructions from high-ranking IS leaders in Afghanistan from Germany's North Rhine-Westphalia state. &nbsp;

He also allegedly recruited members for IS in Germany, leading to the founding of the cell in January 2019.&nbsp;

The cell members had been planning to attack targets including US army bases in Germany, prosecutors said on arresting four of them in April.&nbsp;

The fifth -- Komron B -- was transferred from Albania before being arrested in August.&nbsp;

The group allegedly held training sessions, including paintball games, attended by members of the Islamist scene, who had contact with the Vienna attacker.&nbsp;

They also ordered bomb parts online and stocked up on firearms and ammunition.

Germany has charged five Tajik men with membership of an Islamic State terror cell that recruited members and planned attacks on German soil, prosecutors said on Monday.

Germany has charged five Tajik men with membership of an Islamic State terror cell that recruited members and planned attacks on German soil, prosecutors said on Monday. A sixth member of the same cell, Ravsan B, was sentenced to seven years in jail in January after being prosecuted separately. The five men charged on February 1, named as Farhodshoh K, Muhammadali G, Azizjon B, Sunatullokh K and Komron B, are accused of having various roles in the cell founded in January 2019. "The aim of the cell members, who were in contact with IS leaders in Syria and Afghanistan, was to take up the armed struggle against what they saw as 'infidels' and to commit attacks in Germany," the indictment said. The men allegedly circulated in the same circles as the Tajik-born perpetrator behind the Stockholm truck attack of April 2017, as well as the Macedonian-Austrian national, who gunned down four people in Vienna in November. One of them, Azizjon B, is said to have been involved in the same online network used to recruit the Stockholm attacker. Azizijon B is accused of being an IS member since at least March 2017 and carrying out instructions from high-ranking IS leaders in Afghanistan from Germany's North Rhine-Westphalia state. He also allegedly recruited members for IS in Germany, leading to the founding of the cell in January 2019. The cell members had been planning to attack targets including US army bases in Germany, prosecutors said on arresting four of them in April. The fifth -- Komron B -- was transferred from Albania before being arrested in August. The group allegedly held training sessions, including paintball games, attended by members of the Islamist scene, who had contact with the Vienna attacker. They also ordered bomb parts online and stocked up on firearms and ammunition.

Germany charges five Tajiks over membership in IS cell

According to German police, a car drove&nbsp;into pedestrians in the western city of Trier injuring several people.

Police confirmed at least two people were killed including a baby. Security officials said there were no indications of a "politically" motived attack.&nbsp;

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I am shocked. I can't believe those things would happen in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Trier?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Trier</a>. This is the heart of the city, a street I have walked endless of times, in the morning, after school, in the evening, drunk, with friends, alone, endless of times. Heartbreaking... 😭😭😭 <a href="https://t.co/rN4wOGP5jR">pic.twitter.com/rN4wOGP5jR</a>
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"We have arrested one person, one vehicle has been secured. Two people have died, according to preliminary indications. Please continue to avoid the downtown area," German police told residents.

"Several dead and injured in Trier's inner city," police said, adding, "More info to come. Caring for the injured has absolute priority!"

<img alt="Trier in Germany" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="11d98aa8-17a1-4bf3-a7bc-d51b8d769d53" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Tier1.jpg" />

City mayor Wolfram Leibe said at least 15 people were injured with "some of them with the most severe injuries".

Witnesses said a dark grey Range Rover was being driven at high speed as it hit pedestrians.

<img alt="Trier in Germany" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="59600a4a-c6e5-4903-9689-25e5dfcb9eb0" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Trier2.jpg" />

Reports said it was&nbsp;a 51-year-old German man who&nbsp;ploughed through the street&nbsp;for about a kilometre in his car.

Tuesday's incident brought back memories of the 2016 truck attack carnage through the Berlin Christmas market in which 12 people were killed.

German Chancellor spokesman Steffen Seibert called the events in Trier "shocking" as several leaders expressed their shock over the incident and the killing of a baby calling it "brutal".&nbsp;

According to German police, a car drove into pedestrians in the western city of Trier injuring several people. Police confirmed at least two people were killed including a baby.

According to German police, a car drove into pedestrians in the western city of Trier injuring several people. Police confirmed at least two people were killed including a baby. Security officials said there were no indications of a "politically" motived attack. I am shocked. I can't believe those things would happen in #Trier. This is the heart of the city, a street I have walked endless of times, in the morning, after school, in the evening, drunk, with friends, alone, endless of times. Heartbreaking... 😭😭😭 pic.twitter.com/rN4wOGP5jR — Danny Engels (@G2Danny) December 1, 2020 × "We have arrested one person, one vehicle has been secured. Two people have died, according to preliminary indications. Please continue to avoid the downtown area," German police told residents. "Several dead and injured in Trier's inner city," police said, adding, "More info to come. Caring for the injured has absolute priority!" City mayor Wolfram Leibe said at least 15 people were injured with "some of them with the most severe injuries". Witnesses said a dark grey Range Rover was being driven at high speed as it hit pedestrians. Reports said it was a 51-year-old German man who ploughed through the street for about a kilometre in his car. Tuesday's incident brought back memories of the 2016 truck attack carnage through the Berlin Christmas market in which 12 people were killed. German Chancellor spokesman Steffen Seibert called the events in Trier "shocking" as several leaders expressed their shock over the incident and the killing of a baby calling it "brutal".

Car drives into pedestrians in Germany's Trier city; 2 dead

The US government has told a federal court that Tahawwur Rana, who has been declared a fugitive by India, not only wanted a "top-class" medal for his role in the Mumbai terror attacks but also demanded the nine LeT attackers who were killed in the carnage be given Pakistan's highest military honour.

The 59-year-old Pakistani-origin Canadian businessman Rana, a childhood friend of David Coleman Headley, was re-arrested on June 10 in Los Angeles on an extradition request by India for his involvement in the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks in which 166 people, including six Americans, were killed.

US District Court Judge in Los Angeles Jacqueline Chelonian said in her order on November 13 that the extradition hearing, in this case, is scheduled for February 12, 2021, at 10:00 a.m.

US attorney Nicola T Hanna in his submission before the court in Los Angeles in support of Rana's extradition to India said that Rana, Headley, LeT members, and the other co-conspirators'' plans came to fruition between November 26 and 29, 2008, when ten members of LeT carried out a series of twelve coordinated shooting and bombing attacks.

Indian law enforcement apprehended one of the terrorists, who ultimately stood trial, Hanna said.

Headley discussed the Mumbai attacks with Rana in the months following the attacks, he said.

In December 2008, Headley shared what he had learned from their co-conspirators in Pakistan and told Rana about the different places that had been attacked, reminding him that Headley had made videos of those places.

"Referring to a 1971 attack on his school in Pakistan, Headley told Rana, that he believed he was ''even with the Indians now''. In response, Rana said that they (the Indian people) deserved it. Also, in September 2009, the FBI intercepted Rana telling Headley that the nine LeT attackers who had been killed during the attacks should be given Pakistan's highest military honour," Hanna said in his court papers.

''Rana also asked Headley to tell another co-conspirator in Pakistan - a member of LeT and one of the planners of the Mumbai attacks - that Rana thought that he should get a medal ''for top class''. When Rana learned that Headley already had conveyed this compliment to their co-conspirator, he was pleased," he wrote.

The Mumbai bombings, however, did not end the conspiracy between Rana, Headley, LeT members, and the other co-conspirators. In particular, in 2009, Headley conducted surveillance activities for an intended, but ultimately foiled, terrorist plot in Denmark, again using Rana''s business as a cover, Hanna said.

Headley also conducted surveillance for potential future terrorist attacks in other parts of India. As he did with his surveillance in Mumbai, Headley kept Rana apprised of these surveillance activities. Starting 2009, Rana communicated directly with some of Headley''s contacts in Pakistan, he alleged.

Headley was arrested on October 3, 2009, in Chicago. Six months later, Headley pleaded guilty to 12 charges relating to his activities on behalf of LeT and agreed to cooperate with the United States. The Illinois Court ultimately sentenced Headley to a 35-year term of imprisonment.

Hanna told the court that Rana let Headley use his business as a cover to travel to India and conduct surveillance.

Headley informed his co-conspirators in Pakistan including LeT members that Rana had agreed to use the Immigration Law Center as a cover for his activities. He also showed them the visa that he obtained with Rana's assistance, the US attorney said.

In September 2006, Headley travelled to India, using the opening and operation of Rana''s immigration business as a cover for his travel and an extended stay in Mumbai, the US attorney said. While in India, Headley conducted extensive video surveillance of various locations, including the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel.

Headley later travelled to Pakistan and met with LeT members and others, provided them with the video recordings he had made, and discussed the video and surveillance he had conducted in India. At the directions of co-conspirators in Pakistan, Headley returned to Mumbai in February 2007 and conducted more surveillance of various locations, he said.

The US government has told a federal court that Tahawwur Rana, who has been declared a fugitive by India, not only wanted a "top-class" medal for his role in the Mumbai terror attacks but also demanded the nine LeT attackers who were killed in the carnage be given Pakistan's highest military honour.

The US government has told a federal court that Tahawwur Rana, who has been declared a fugitive by India, not only wanted a "top-class" medal for his role in the Mumbai terror attacks but also demanded the nine LeT attackers who were killed in the carnage be given Pakistan's highest military honour. The 59-year-old Pakistani-origin Canadian businessman Rana, a childhood friend of David Coleman Headley, was re-arrested on June 10 in Los Angeles on an extradition request by India for his involvement in the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks in which 166 people, including six Americans, were killed. US District Court Judge in Los Angeles Jacqueline Chelonian said in her order on November 13 that the extradition hearing, in this case, is scheduled for February 12, 2021, at 10:00 a.m. US attorney Nicola T Hanna in his submission before the court in Los Angeles in support of Rana's extradition to India said that Rana, Headley, LeT members, and the other co-conspirators'' plans came to fruition between November 26 and 29, 2008, when ten members of LeT carried out a series of twelve coordinated shooting and bombing attacks. Indian law enforcement apprehended one of the terrorists, who ultimately stood trial, Hanna said. Headley discussed the Mumbai attacks with Rana in the months following the attacks, he said. In December 2008, Headley shared what he had learned from their co-conspirators in Pakistan and told Rana about the different places that had been attacked, reminding him that Headley had made videos of those places. "Referring to a 1971 attack on his school in Pakistan, Headley told Rana, that he believed he was ''even with the Indians now''. In response, Rana said that they (the Indian people) deserved it. Also, in September 2009, the FBI intercepted Rana telling Headley that the nine LeT attackers who had been killed during the attacks should be given Pakistan's highest military honour," Hanna said in his court papers. ''Rana also asked Headley to tell another co-conspirator in Pakistan - a member of LeT and one of the planners of the Mumbai attacks - that Rana thought that he should get a medal ''for top class''. When Rana learned that Headley already had conveyed this compliment to their co-conspirator, he was pleased," he wrote. The Mumbai bombings, however, did not end the conspiracy between Rana, Headley, LeT members, and the other co-conspirators. In particular, in 2009, Headley conducted surveillance activities for an intended, but ultimately foiled, terrorist plot in Denmark, again using Rana''s business as a cover, Hanna said. Headley also conducted surveillance for potential future terrorist attacks in other parts of India. As he did with his surveillance in Mumbai, Headley kept Rana apprised of these surveillance activities. Starting 2009, Rana communicated directly with some of Headley''s contacts in Pakistan, he alleged. Headley was arrested on October 3, 2009, in Chicago. Six months later, Headley pleaded guilty to 12 charges relating to his activities on behalf of LeT and agreed to cooperate with the United States. The Illinois Court ultimately sentenced Headley to a 35-year term of imprisonment. Hanna told the court that Rana let Headley use his business as a cover to travel to India and conduct surveillance. Headley informed his co-conspirators in Pakistan including LeT members that Rana had agreed to use the Immigration Law Center as a cover for his activities. He also showed them the visa that he obtained with Rana's assistance, the US attorney said. In September 2006, Headley travelled to India, using the opening and operation of Rana''s immigration business as a cover for his travel and an extended stay in Mumbai, the US attorney said. While in India, Headley conducted extensive video surveillance of various locations, including the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel. Headley later travelled to Pakistan and met with LeT members and others, provided them with the video recordings he had made, and discussed the video and surveillance he had conducted in India. At the directions of co-conspirators in Pakistan, Headley returned to Mumbai in February 2007 and conducted more surveillance of various locations, he said.

'Pakistan's military honour for terror attack': Tahawwur Rana wanted a medal for 26/11

At one time, several countries in Europe including Britain, France, and Portugal ruled most of the rest of the world in Asia, Africa and the Americas. &nbsp;Europeans entered these impoverished regions as traders and then found that they could dominate these countries by exploiting the illiteracy of the local population and the enmity and conflicts between the local chieftains. European countries succeeded and finally ruled these occupied countries for several centuries. Europeans exploited the resources of these countries ruthlessly and enriched themselves. However, with local people getting better awareness, the rule by Europeans ended.

Domination attempt by communists

Later on, communism emerged and communists attempted to dominate the world by spreading the communist philosophy, which was explained as supporting the cause of proletariat (working class) and to prevent the exploitation of the poor people by the employers and landlords. The essence of the communist campaign was that establishment of communist governance should be an international goal and the nationalism should be subordinated to it. However, the communist governments fell one by one, as it amounted to dictatorship and rule by a coterie of ruthless leaders, who were proved to be bigger exploiters than the employers and the landowners they decried earlier. &nbsp;At present, China claims itself to be a communist country but such claim is a fraud, as China has a ruthless government essentially believing in the suppression of freedom and liberty of individuals and having sort of capitalist economy pattern.

Domination attempt by China

China too has now the ambition of dominating the world to make China emerge as a superpower. The method and strategy being adopted by the Chinese government are somewhat different from that of the Europeans and communists earlier, as China is seeking to exercise economic control over the weak countries and is organizing OBOR (One Belt One Road) scheme, which essentially is aimed to make all countries look up to China for support and in the process enabling China to become a superpower. Apart from this, China combines it’s economic and trade strategies with war tactics, where it seeks to expand its territory by sending its army and indulging in warfare. So far, it has been successful to some extent, as it is evident from its occupation of Tibet by aggressive military action. &nbsp;It remains to be seen as to what extent China would be successful in the long run.

Islamic extremism

Islamic extremism is now a strongly emerging force that seeks to convert the entire world to become followers of Islam. In other words, unlike the past pattern adopted by Europe and communist countries, Islamic extremism has a religious goal to be achieved by fair or foul means.

Islamic extremists believe (and they are not concealing this belief) that they can make the entire world follow Islam by acts of terrorism, killings, violence and also spreading the Muslim population around the world.

Europe and India targeted

Certainly, the immediate target of the Islamic extremists is European countries and India, as most of the European countries and India have a democratic form of governance and have a liberal attitude towards the dissenters, protestors and even violent movements.

Infiltration into Europe

In the case of &nbsp;Europe, the Islamic extremists (who are now described by many as Islamic terrorists and this term is getting into dictionaries) are indulging in terrorist activities, wanton killing of innocent people to frighten the Europeans and combining these tactics by infiltrating into Europe as refugees.

The democratic countries in Europe, such as Germany, Belgium and several others, have “innocently” allowed the entry of Islamic refugees in large number, without realizing the short term and long term adverse implications. &nbsp;Now, European countries are realizing their fault but such realization appears to be too late now.

The population of Islamic refugees in Europe have significantly increased in recent years and the families are multiplying themselves at a rapid pace. &nbsp;Most of them continue to adopt their own lifestyle and Islamic way of living and the majority of them live in separate colonies. Such Muslim dominated colonies are now so many in Europe, that the natives often avoid entering into these colonies at all.

Europe paying the price

France is now paying the price, more than other European countries, as it has a significant population of Muslims and Islamic extremists are effectively mingling with the local Muslim population and frequently carrying out attacks and killings under one pretext or the other.

The French government now says that it is determined to check the onslaught of Islamic extremism.

The question is whether it can really do so, as France is not getting the necessary support from other European countries, since most of the European countries also have significant Muslim population and are fearing backlash from Islamic extremists.

Role of Islamic countries

While European countries remain disunited in combating the Islamic extremism, the Islam dominated countries all over the world are supporting the terrorist activities by Islamic extremists in France and are organizing demonstrations all over the world against the French government and its leadership.

What is even more disquieting is that a few Islamic countries such as Pakistan, Turkey, and Iran are openly supporting Islamic extremism and the goal of making the entire world an Islamic world.

What future for Europe?

It remains to be seen how Europe would tackle the challenge posed by the Islamic extremists and one wonders as to whether Europe has already lost the war against Islamic extremists, particularly since Islamic refugees and other people following Islam religion are already well entrenched in Europe and expand their population steadily and rapidly and will never go away from Europe.

Once Europeans ruled almost the entire world. Are now Europeans being paid back in the same coin?

At one time, several countries in Europe including Britain, France, and Portugal ruled most of the rest of the world in Asia, Africa and the Americas. Europeans entered these impoverished regions as traders and then found that they could dominate these countries by exploiting the illiteracy of the local population and the enmity and conflicts between the local chieftains.

At one time, several countries in Europe including Britain, France, and Portugal ruled most of the rest of the world in Asia, Africa and the Americas. Europeans entered these impoverished regions as traders and then found that they could dominate these countries by exploiting the illiteracy of the local population and the enmity and conflicts between the local chieftains. European countries succeeded and finally ruled these occupied countries for several centuries. Europeans exploited the resources of these countries ruthlessly and enriched themselves. However, with local people getting better awareness, the rule by Europeans ended. Domination attempt by communists Later on, communism emerged and communists attempted to dominate the world by spreading the communist philosophy, which was explained as supporting the cause of proletariat (working class) and to prevent the exploitation of the poor people by the employers and landlords. The essence of the communist campaign was that establishment of communist governance should be an international goal and the nationalism should be subordinated to it. However, the communist governments fell one by one, as it amounted to dictatorship and rule by a coterie of ruthless leaders, who were proved to be bigger exploiters than the employers and the landowners they decried earlier. At present, China claims itself to be a communist country but such claim is a fraud, as China has a ruthless government essentially believing in the suppression of freedom and liberty of individuals and having sort of capitalist economy pattern. Domination attempt by China China too has now the ambition of dominating the world to make China emerge as a superpower. The method and strategy being adopted by the Chinese government are somewhat different from that of the Europeans and communists earlier, as China is seeking to exercise economic control over the weak countries and is organizing OBOR (One Belt One Road) scheme, which essentially is aimed to make all countries look up to China for support and in the process enabling China to become a superpower. Apart from this, China combines it’s economic and trade strategies with war tactics, where it seeks to expand its territory by sending its army and indulging in warfare. So far, it has been successful to some extent, as it is evident from its occupation of Tibet by aggressive military action. It remains to be seen as to what extent China would be successful in the long run. Islamic extremism Islamic extremism is now a strongly emerging force that seeks to convert the entire world to become followers of Islam. In other words, unlike the past pattern adopted by Europe and communist countries, Islamic extremism has a religious goal to be achieved by fair or foul means. Islamic extremists believe (and they are not concealing this belief) that they can make the entire world follow Islam by acts of terrorism, killings, violence and also spreading the Muslim population around the world. Europe and India targeted Certainly, the immediate target of the Islamic extremists is European countries and India, as most of the European countries and India have a democratic form of governance and have a liberal attitude towards the dissenters, protestors and even violent movements. Infiltration into Europe In the case of Europe, the Islamic extremists (who are now described by many as Islamic terrorists and this term is getting into dictionaries) are indulging in terrorist activities, wanton killing of innocent people to frighten the Europeans and combining these tactics by infiltrating into Europe as refugees. The democratic countries in Europe, such as Germany, Belgium and several others, have “innocently” allowed the entry of Islamic refugees in large number, without realizing the short term and long term adverse implications. Now, European countries are realizing their fault but such realization appears to be too late now. The population of Islamic refugees in Europe have significantly increased in recent years and the families are multiplying themselves at a rapid pace. Most of them continue to adopt their own lifestyle and Islamic way of living and the majority of them live in separate colonies. Such Muslim dominated colonies are now so many in Europe, that the natives often avoid entering into these colonies at all. Europe paying the price France is now paying the price, more than other European countries, as it has a significant population of Muslims and Islamic extremists are effectively mingling with the local Muslim population and frequently carrying out attacks and killings under one pretext or the other. The French government now says that it is determined to check the onslaught of Islamic extremism. The question is whether it can really do so, as France is not getting the necessary support from other European countries, since most of the European countries also have significant Muslim population and are fearing backlash from Islamic extremists. Role of Islamic countries While European countries remain disunited in combating the Islamic extremism, the Islam dominated countries all over the world are supporting the terrorist activities by Islamic extremists in France and are organizing demonstrations all over the world against the French government and its leadership. What is even more disquieting is that a few Islamic countries such as Pakistan, Turkey, and Iran are openly supporting Islamic extremism and the goal of making the entire world an Islamic world. What future for Europe? It remains to be seen how Europe would tackle the challenge posed by the Islamic extremists and one wonders as to whether Europe has already lost the war against Islamic extremists, particularly since Islamic refugees and other people following Islam religion are already well entrenched in Europe and expand their population steadily and rapidly and will never go away from Europe. Once Europeans ruled almost the entire world. Are now Europeans being paid back in the same coin?

Has Europe already lost the war against Islamic extremists?

Europe seems to be gradually slipping into the grip of terror which experts say has largely been sponsored by section of the Islamic fanatics in the aftermath of grotesque killings in France.

The latest act of terror is the terrorist assault in a&nbsp;synagogue in central Vienna (Austria), where&nbsp;on November 2, a group of unidentified gunmen armed with sophisticated weapons, fired indiscriminately killing three and grievously injuring 14.&nbsp;This has sent bone-chilling shockwaves in Austria in particular, and in other adjacent European countries particularly Germany.&nbsp;

Vienna has ordinarily&nbsp;been out of the terror radar of the perpetrators when compared to violent terror strikes in other parts of Europe including in London, Brussels, Paris etc.&nbsp;While one of the assailants has been killed by the Austrian counter-terror forces, the rest are on the run, raising the level of alertness to the highest. All border countries have upped their antenna to apprehend the absconders. &nbsp;

Barely two weeks ago, on October 16, Samuel Paty, the simple school teacher in a Paris school in his mid-forties was brutally beheaded by an Islamic fanatic in the suburbs of Paris. Samuel Paty’s only ‘ fault‘ was that in one of his classes, he explained his pupils the French tenet of freedom of expression which included the caricature drawing, even if that was of any religious leader as drawn and published fearlessly by Charlie Hebdo. Paty was slain mercilessly which was a murder most foul. This was followed by a series of more killings in the Notre Dame Cathedral in Nice. This perverse act, in quick succession, was yet another grim reminder that France in particular and Europe, in general, were rapidly getting into an insecure mode falling into huge vulnerability.&nbsp;

Earlier, a Pakistani national in his teens had injured a couple of French people openly using a meat cleaver. We see a Pakistani, a Chechen and some of the other Islamic settlers moving openly with lethal tools of murder like a cleaver, displaying the fact that they are so highly radicalised and are ready to be killed in their attempts to avenge any self-perceived affront to their Prophet.&nbsp;

Now the question is how these perpetrators of ghastly murders are getting emboldened? Primarily, because Islamic leaders in a bid to assume a pan Islamic global role have most irresponsibly embarked on the rhetoric of hate and belligerence. Former Malaysian PM Mahatir Mohammad‘s most provoking remarks exhorting for indiscriminate killings of the French were in very poor taste most unbecoming of a former Head of State. More lamentably, Turkish President, Tayyip Erdogan’s tenor using expressions like relaunching of a crusade against Islam or Islamophobia have done incalculable harm in any damage control or providing healing touch but instead added fuel to the fire. Pakistan PM, Imran Khan so as not to lag behind, also emerged with unsavoury statements with no appeal whatsoever to the terrorists for calm.

As President Emmanuel Macron of France has hardened his stance describing the acts of terror in France as part of Islamic terror, the Muslim world has gone on protests&nbsp;taking to streets. Bangladesh saw thousands of people converging daily in capital Dhaka demonstrating against France, burning Macron’s effigy, boycotting French goods and even going to the extent of resorting to vandalism targeting Hindus and their properties. Hindu minority in Bangladesh has nothing to do with the killings in France. This looks bizarre.&nbsp;

As Paris is yet to return to normalcy, Vienna is the latest victim setting a pattern being followed by the terrorists carefully selecting their targets in Europe. Belgium, Holland, Germany, France etc. &nbsp;Many more countries have a considerable number of population, originating from North African countries like Morocco, Tunisia, Algeria and Tunisia. Many of them had been complicit in terror assaults in Belgium, Holland etc. Encouraged by the emotional support, they are likely to stun Europe by lone-wolf attacks making these countries and even others, more insecure forcing them to live in fear and in edges.&nbsp;

It is reckoned by security analysts, that there is an urgent need to increase the intelligence with a meaningful exchange of actionable and preemptive information. Europol could be the point of coordination. However, it doesn’t seem to be happening today or else, in Vienna, how could the terrorists acquire such modern weapons and open fire killing three and wounding more than a dozen? The same logic holds good for France. &nbsp;

Meanwhile, there are no signs of any abatement in containing the spiralling cases of terror as yet. Nor are there any attempts of reconciliation between the deeply polarised camps represented by the religiously radicalised countries on one hand, and Europe on the other. Top religious leaders from both the camps need to do some brainstorming and the security professionals must also tighten their border control mechanism, intelligence apparatus and counter-terror initiatives to rein in one of the worst terror menaces the world is afflicted with. Importantly, their approach should be purely professional cutting across religious lines.&nbsp;

The developments in Austria and France call for a ‘ zero tolerance ‘ attitude in India too where all the concerned security agencies must exercise maximum vigil keeping a sharp eye on the potential mischief-makers to foil any terror-linked agenda to mar peace. This is underscored also to rule out fanning of communal passions and planning of lone-wolf attacks.&nbsp;

(Writer is a retired IPS officer, a security analyst, and a former National Security Advisor to the Prime Minister of Mauritius. Views expressed are personal

(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do&nbsp;not represent the views of&nbsp;WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse&nbsp;the views of the writer)

Europe seems to be gradually slipping into the grip of terror which experts say has largely been sponsored by section of the Islamic fanatics in the aftermath of grotesque killings in France.

Europe seems to be gradually slipping into the grip of terror which experts say has largely been sponsored by section of the Islamic fanatics in the aftermath of grotesque killings in France. The latest act of terror is the terrorist assault in a synagogue in central Vienna (Austria), where on November 2, a group of unidentified gunmen armed with sophisticated weapons, fired indiscriminately killing three and grievously injuring 14. This has sent bone-chilling shockwaves in Austria in particular, and in other adjacent European countries particularly Germany. Vienna has ordinarily been out of the terror radar of the perpetrators when compared to violent terror strikes in other parts of Europe including in London, Brussels, Paris etc. While one of the assailants has been killed by the Austrian counter-terror forces, the rest are on the run, raising the level of alertness to the highest. All border countries have upped their antenna to apprehend the absconders. Barely two weeks ago, on October 16, Samuel Paty, the simple school teacher in a Paris school in his mid-forties was brutally beheaded by an Islamic fanatic in the suburbs of Paris. Samuel Paty’s only ‘ fault‘ was that in one of his classes, he explained his pupils the French tenet of freedom of expression which included the caricature drawing, even if that was of any religious leader as drawn and published fearlessly by Charlie Hebdo. Paty was slain mercilessly which was a murder most foul. This was followed by a series of more killings in the Notre Dame Cathedral in Nice. This perverse act, in quick succession, was yet another grim reminder that France in particular and Europe, in general, were rapidly getting into an insecure mode falling into huge vulnerability. Earlier, a Pakistani national in his teens had injured a couple of French people openly using a meat cleaver. We see a Pakistani, a Chechen and some of the other Islamic settlers moving openly with lethal tools of murder like a cleaver, displaying the fact that they are so highly radicalised and are ready to be killed in their attempts to avenge any self-perceived affront to their Prophet. Now the question is how these perpetrators of ghastly murders are getting emboldened? Primarily, because Islamic leaders in a bid to assume a pan Islamic global role have most irresponsibly embarked on the rhetoric of hate and belligerence. Former Malaysian PM Mahatir Mohammad‘s most provoking remarks exhorting for indiscriminate killings of the French were in very poor taste most unbecoming of a former Head of State. More lamentably, Turkish President, Tayyip Erdogan’s tenor using expressions like relaunching of a crusade against Islam or Islamophobia have done incalculable harm in any damage control or providing healing touch but instead added fuel to the fire. Pakistan PM, Imran Khan so as not to lag behind, also emerged with unsavoury statements with no appeal whatsoever to the terrorists for calm. As President Emmanuel Macron of France has hardened his stance describing the acts of terror in France as part of Islamic terror, the Muslim world has gone on protests taking to streets. Bangladesh saw thousands of people converging daily in capital Dhaka demonstrating against France, burning Macron’s effigy, boycotting French goods and even going to the extent of resorting to vandalism targeting Hindus and their properties. Hindu minority in Bangladesh has nothing to do with the killings in France. This looks bizarre. As Paris is yet to return to normalcy, Vienna is the latest victim setting a pattern being followed by the terrorists carefully selecting their targets in Europe. Belgium, Holland, Germany, France etc. Many more countries have a considerable number of population, originating from North African countries like Morocco, Tunisia, Algeria and Tunisia. Many of them had been complicit in terror assaults in Belgium, Holland etc. Encouraged by the emotional support, they are likely to stun Europe by lone-wolf attacks making these countries and even others, more insecure forcing them to live in fear and in edges. It is reckoned by security analysts, that there is an urgent need to increase the intelligence with a meaningful exchange of actionable and preemptive information. Europol could be the point of coordination. However, it doesn’t seem to be happening today or else, in Vienna, how could the terrorists acquire such modern weapons and open fire killing three and wounding more than a dozen? The same logic holds good for France. Meanwhile, there are no signs of any abatement in containing the spiralling cases of terror as yet. Nor are there any attempts of reconciliation between the deeply polarised camps represented by the religiously radicalised countries on one hand, and Europe on the other. Top religious leaders from both the camps need to do some brainstorming and the security professionals must also tighten their border control mechanism, intelligence apparatus and counter-terror initiatives to rein in one of the worst terror menaces the world is afflicted with. Importantly, their approach should be purely professional cutting across religious lines. The developments in Austria and France call for a ‘ zero tolerance ‘ attitude in India too where all the concerned security agencies must exercise maximum vigil keeping a sharp eye on the potential mischief-makers to foil any terror-linked agenda to mar peace. This is underscored also to rule out fanning of communal passions and planning of lone-wolf attacks. (Writer is a retired IPS officer, a security analyst, and a former National Security Advisor to the Prime Minister of Mauritius. Views expressed are personal (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer)

Europe in the grip of terror 

France has asked Pakistan to take back comments that compared President Emmanuel Macron to Nazis. The comment was made by a Pakistani minister. British Finance Minister Rishi Sunak said that Christmas this year will not be 'normal' in light of coronavirus pandemic. In Syria, 14 pro-Iran militia fighters were killed in an Israeli airstrike, said a report. Afghan Vice President has vowed to track those behind Kabul terror attack. Read this and more.

 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/blatant-lies-france-asks-pakistan-to-withdraw-comments-that-compared-macron-to-nazis-344721">'Blatant lies': France asks Pakistan to withdraw comments that compared Macron to Nazis</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/blatant-lies-france-asks-pakistan-to-withdraw-comments-that-compared-macron-to-nazis-344721"><img alt="Macron" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c4e9d647-a320-469a-8747-119dd530c7fb" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/macron%20main.JPG" /></a>

France's foreign ministry said that the remarks by the minister were 'hateful' and 'blatant lies', demanding Pakistan to 'rectify' the statements

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-normal-christmas-this-year-says-britains-finance-minister-rishi-sunak-344710">No 'normal' Christmas this year, says Britain's Finance Minister Rishi Sunak</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-normal-christmas-this-year-says-britains-finance-minister-rishi-sunak-344710"><img alt="Sunak" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c751cb90-aabf-4050-851c-97086bef6644" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Rishi%20Sunak.JPG" /></a> 
 
Sunak's comments came after the government affirmed that there will be a tougher set of restrictions after the current lockdown ends on December 2

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/syria-14-pro-iran-fighters-killed-in-israeli-airstrikes-says-report-344707">Syria: 14 pro-Iran fighters killed in Israeli airstrikes, says report</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/syria-14-pro-iran-fighters-killed-in-israeli-airstrikes-says-report-344707"><img alt="Syria" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="89266dc5-793d-4af9-93ba-ef4dde32b534" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Syria%20airstrikes.JPG" /></a> 
 
More than 10 strikes hit positions of Iran-backed militias outside the border town of Albu Kamal

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-warns-israel-over-its-role-in-syria-344713">Iran warns Israel over its role in Syria</a>

<img alt="Syria airstrike" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7353cbde-ae26-45ad-935e-105480354190" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Syria.JPG" />

Israel, which views Tehran as its biggest security threat, has repeatedly attacked Iranian targets and those of allied militia in Syria, where Tehran has backed President Bashar al-Assad and his forces against rebels and militants since 2012

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghan-vp-vows-to-track-those-behind-kabul-terror-attack-344699">Afghan VP vows to track those behind Kabul terror attack</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghan-vp-vows-to-track-those-behind-kabul-terror-attack-344699"><img alt="Afghanistan" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="85bd4a6f-a280-4a81-8ae6-6d03fe75ea81" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Afghanistan_1.JPG" /></a> 
 
The attack that took place on Saturday saw rockets being fired in densely populated areas of Kabul, including in and around the heavily fortified Green Zone.

 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nasal-spray-that-aims-to-fight-covid-19-other-respiratory-illness-gets-million-dollar-funding-344698">Nasal spray that aims to fight Covid-19, other respiratory illness gets million-dollar funding</a>

<img alt="Coronavirus nasal spray" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="37fe87de-3dc0-463b-a22b-ef764f1406c3" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/nasal%20spray.JPG" />

 
If the technology turns out successful, other than coronavirus, infections like common cold and influenza can also be dealt with

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/women-who-killed-afghan-official-with-promises-of-sex-released-with-taliban-prisoners-344648">Women who killed Afghan official with promises of sex, released with Taliban prisoners</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/women-who-killed-afghan-official-with-promises-of-sex-released-with-taliban-prisoners-344648"><img alt="Woman afghanistan" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0bb8bf47-db32-4506-92b3-7b302cf0df36" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/woman.JPG" /></a> 
The two were also infamous for brutal murders, other than their 'honeytrap' killings

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dutch-cull-almost-200000-chickens-after-bird-flu-outbreak-344695">Dutch cull almost 200,000 chickens after bird flu outbreak</a>

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Seasonal bird flu has been detected at various farms around the Netherlands since October, blamed mainly on migratory birds.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/couple-collects-5000-gifts-for-donations-this-christmas-344704">Couple collects 5,000 gifts for donations this Christmas</a>

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The couple, who run the popular TikTok channel The Smithy Family, initially decided to buy 60 gifts for Christmas for needy people but were surprised to see how people supported their efforts

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thousands-join-annual-taiwan-protest-anger-focussed-on-us-pork-344692">Thousands join annual Taiwan protest, anger focussed on US pork</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thousands-join-annual-taiwan-protest-anger-focussed-on-us-pork-344692"><img alt="Taiwan pork" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7ba1e039-c607-4643-a3e9-079ebbf1f4af" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/taiwan_2.JPG" /></a> 
 
Taiwan`s main opposition party the Kuomintang (KMT) rallied its supporters to join in the march for the first time, having mounted an increasingly strident campaign against the pork move, which it says threatens food safety.

France has asked Pakistan to take back comments that compared President Emmanuel Macron to Nazis. The comment was made by a Pakistani minister. British Finance Minister Rishi Sunak said that Christmas this year will not be 'normal' in light of coronavirus pandemic.

France has asked Pakistan to take back comments that compared President Emmanuel Macron to Nazis. The comment was made by a Pakistani minister. British Finance Minister Rishi Sunak said that Christmas this year will not be 'normal' in light of coronavirus pandemic. In Syria, 14 pro-Iran militia fighters were killed in an Israeli airstrike, said a report. Afghan Vice President has vowed to track those behind Kabul terror attack. Read this and more. 'Blatant lies': France asks Pakistan to withdraw comments that compared Macron to Nazis France's foreign ministry said that the remarks by the minister were 'hateful' and 'blatant lies', demanding Pakistan to 'rectify' the statements No 'normal' Christmas this year, says Britain's Finance Minister Rishi Sunak Sunak's comments came after the government affirmed that there will be a tougher set of restrictions after the current lockdown ends on December 2 Syria: 14 pro-Iran fighters killed in Israeli airstrikes, says report More than 10 strikes hit positions of Iran-backed militias outside the border town of Albu Kamal Iran warns Israel over its role in Syria Israel, which views Tehran as its biggest security threat, has repeatedly attacked Iranian targets and those of allied militia in Syria, where Tehran has backed President Bashar al-Assad and his forces against rebels and militants since 2012 Afghan VP vows to track those behind Kabul terror attack The attack that took place on Saturday saw rockets being fired in densely populated areas of Kabul, including in and around the heavily fortified Green Zone. Nasal spray that aims to fight Covid-19, other respiratory illness gets million-dollar funding If the technology turns out successful, other than coronavirus, infections like common cold and influenza can also be dealt with Women who killed Afghan official with promises of sex, released with Taliban prisoners The two were also infamous for brutal murders, other than their 'honeytrap' killings Dutch cull almost 200,000 chickens after bird flu outbreak Seasonal bird flu has been detected at various farms around the Netherlands since October, blamed mainly on migratory birds. Couple collects 5,000 gifts for donations this Christmas The couple, who run the popular TikTok channel The Smithy Family, initially decided to buy 60 gifts for Christmas for needy people but were surprised to see how people supported their efforts Thousands join annual Taiwan protest, anger focussed on US pork Taiwan`s main opposition party the Kuomintang (KMT) rallied its supporters to join in the march for the first time, having mounted an increasingly strident campaign against the pork move, which it says threatens food safety.

Top 10 World news: Macron fumes over 'Nazi' jibe, Iran warns Israel, and more!

Islamic State accepted responsibility for terrorist attack in Kabul, reported AFP. The terror attack has claimed at least 8 lives. The terrorist attack was earlier blamed on Taliban. The terrorist attack in Kabul took place in densely populated part of the city including near heavily fortified Green Zone. The Islamic State claimed responsibility for Kabul attack through its Telegram channels.

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Islamic State&nbsp;said 28 Katyusha rockets fired by "soldiers of the caliphate" hit Kabul's heavily fortified Green Zone that houses "the presidential palace, embassies of Crusader states, and the headquarters of Afghan forces".&nbsp;

The Afghan government initially blamed Taliban but it denied responsibility of the attack.

"The terrorists fired 23 rockets on the city of Kabul. Based on the initial information, eight people were martyred, and 31 others were wounded," said interior ministry spokesman Tariq Arian earlier, as quoted by news agency AFP.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistans-kabul-rocked-by-several-rocket-explosions-344461">Afghanistan rocket explosions: Death toll jumps to 8; govt blames Taliban</a> 
 
The terrorist attack in Kabul took place around 0430 hours (GMT) on Saturday.&nbsp;

Green Zone, the heavily fortified area in Kabul that houses embassies was also affected.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/mike-pompeo-to-meet-taliban-afghan-negotiators-in-doha-344444">Mike Pompeo to meet Taliban, Afghan negotiators in Doha</a> 
 
At least one rocket landed in an office inside the Green Zone, but did not explode.

The Iranian embassy said on Twitter that its main building had been hit by rocket fragments after one landed on the premises. No one in the compound, located just outside the Green Zone, was wounded.

The terror attack in Kabul took place on the day when US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo was <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/mike-pompeo-to-meet-taliban-afghan-negotiators-in-doha-344444">travelling to Qatar</a> to hold discussions with Taliban delegation on the&nbsp;Afghan peace process.

Islamic State accepted responsibility for terrorist attack in Kabul, reported AFP. The terror attack has claimed at least 8 lives. The terrorist attack was earlier blamed on Taliban.

Islamic State accepted responsibility for terrorist attack in Kabul, reported AFP. The terror attack has claimed at least 8 lives. The terrorist attack was earlier blamed on Taliban. The terrorist attack in Kabul took place in densely populated part of the city including near heavily fortified Green Zone. The Islamic State claimed responsibility for Kabul attack through its Telegram channels. × Islamic State said 28 Katyusha rockets fired by "soldiers of the caliphate" hit Kabul's heavily fortified Green Zone that houses "the presidential palace, embassies of Crusader states, and the headquarters of Afghan forces". The Afghan government initially blamed Taliban but it denied responsibility of the attack. "The terrorists fired 23 rockets on the city of Kabul. Based on the initial information, eight people were martyred, and 31 others were wounded," said interior ministry spokesman Tariq Arian earlier, as quoted by news agency AFP. Also Read | Afghanistan rocket explosions: Death toll jumps to 8; govt blames Taliban The terrorist attack in Kabul took place around 0430 hours (GMT) on Saturday. Green Zone, the heavily fortified area in Kabul that houses embassies was also affected. Also Read | Mike Pompeo to meet Taliban, Afghan negotiators in Doha At least one rocket landed in an office inside the Green Zone, but did not explode. The Iranian embassy said on Twitter that its main building had been hit by rocket fragments after one landed on the premises. No one in the compound, located just outside the Green Zone, was wounded. The terror attack in Kabul took place on the day when US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo was travelling to Qatar to hold discussions with Taliban delegation on the Afghan peace process.

Kabul terror attack: Islamic State claims responsibility

According to news agency ANI's report, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday held a review meeting with Union Home Minister Amit Shah, National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval, which found that the terrorists were planning a major attack on the 26/11 anniversary in India.

Source: Terrorists planned something big on 26/11 attack anniversary, PM Modi call meeting

Afghan Vice President Amrullah Saleh, through a Facebook post confirmed that the mastermind behind the deadly attack on Kabul University that left at least 22 people dead, has been arrested.

Kabul university terror attack mastermind arrested

Europe has seen a string of terror attacks in the last one month and it proposes to implement a radical idea to set up a school for imams which would be an institute to train Islamic preachers and faith leaders in Europe.

It's a three-fold plan - firstly, train imams at home and certify them, secondly, control foreign funding of religious institutes and shut or scrutinise the open borders. The proposal has come from Charles Michel, the chief of the European Council who leads the body that defines the political direction and priorities of the European Union.

Michel says a European institute should be set up to train imams.

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"This is one of the very concrete ideas that I am formulating, this European institute for the training of imams, to make sure that imams are trained in Europe, to make sure that the primacy of civil law is accepted," Michel said.

Europe is finally waking up to the threat of radical Islam. An institute to train imams is only one of the many proposals in the works. The European Union wants increased powers to fight Islamism.

A report reveals what is on the mind of European leaders. A draft statement has specific instructions for the executive arm of the European Union, promote religious education and training of imams within the European Union bearing the stamp of Germany, which holds the EU’s rotating presidency.

The draft also includes warnings for immigrants and asylum seekers. It says integration “is a two-way street: providing support, but expecting more in return.” The draft includes the idea of warnings for immigrants and asylum seekers.

When home ministers of the European Union meet, terrorism will now top the EU agenda for the bloc's December summit, EU leaders will debate the issue of religious extremism.

The policy of open borders is under the lens too, yet again, it's Macron who is leading the charge. He wants Europe to re-think the open-border Schengen area. The French president says tighter controls are needed to stop clandestine immigration.

Macron said criminal gangs are illegally trafficking migrants into Europe, often, they have links to terror networks. So the European Union must take steps to protect itself.

"The attacks that France has experienced, that Austria experienced a few days ago in Vienna, show us that the terrorist risk is everywhere, that networks are globalised, that terrorists today organise themselves globally through networks, on the one hand, the internet and social networks, but also by sending agents across borders. this requires Europe to step up its response. France is doing this on its borders by doubling the forces present, Europe must now do so," Macron said.

Europe has seen a string of terror attacks in the last one month and it proposes to implement a radical idea to set up a school for imams which would be an institute to train Islamic preachers and faith leaders in Europe.

Europe has seen a string of terror attacks in the last one month and it proposes to implement a radical idea to set up a school for imams which would be an institute to train Islamic preachers and faith leaders in Europe. It's a three-fold plan - firstly, train imams at home and certify them, secondly, control foreign funding of religious institutes and shut or scrutinise the open borders. The proposal has come from Charles Michel, the chief of the European Council who leads the body that defines the political direction and priorities of the European Union. Michel says a European institute should be set up to train imams. "This is one of the very concrete ideas that I am formulating, this European institute for the training of imams, to make sure that imams are trained in Europe, to make sure that the primacy of civil law is accepted," Michel said. Europe is finally waking up to the threat of radical Islam. An institute to train imams is only one of the many proposals in the works. The European Union wants increased powers to fight Islamism. A report reveals what is on the mind of European leaders. A draft statement has specific instructions for the executive arm of the European Union, promote religious education and training of imams within the European Union bearing the stamp of Germany, which holds the EU’s rotating presidency. The draft also includes warnings for immigrants and asylum seekers. It says integration “is a two-way street: providing support, but expecting more in return.” The draft includes the idea of warnings for immigrants and asylum seekers. When home ministers of the European Union meet, terrorism will now top the EU agenda for the bloc's December summit, EU leaders will debate the issue of religious extremism. The policy of open borders is under the lens too, yet again, it's Macron who is leading the charge. He wants Europe to re-think the open-border Schengen area. The French president says tighter controls are needed to stop clandestine immigration. Macron said criminal gangs are illegally trafficking migrants into Europe, often, they have links to terror networks. So the European Union must take steps to protect itself. "The attacks that France has experienced, that Austria experienced a few days ago in Vienna, show us that the terrorist risk is everywhere, that networks are globalised, that terrorists today organise themselves globally through networks, on the one hand, the internet and social networks, but also by sending agents across borders. this requires Europe to step up its response. France is doing this on its borders by doubling the forces present, Europe must now do so," Macron said.

After string of terror attacks, Europe proposes school for imams

Large quantities of mobile phone footage have confirmed that the jihadist who killed four people in a rampage in Vienna on Monday was the only gunman, but Austria fumbled intelligence on him, Interior Minister Karl Nehammer said on Wednesday.

Vienna gunman rampaged alone, intelligence was fumbled, minister says

In a big revelation, Austria's interior minister said on Wednesday that Austria's domestic intelligence service had received warning that the Islamic State sympathiser wanted to procure ammunition. The man later went on to carry out a deadly shooting in Vienna. Austria's interior minister said that the Austrian domestic intelligence had received the warning from neighbouring Slovakia.

"In the last few hours information has come to light that some time prior to the terror attack, Slovakian intelligence informed (Austria's domestic intelligence service) the BVT about the attacker. The information was that he wanted to get ammunition," Karl Nehammer told a press conference.

Four people were killed when Kujtim Fejzulai, described as a 20-year-old IS sympathiser who had spent time in prison, opened fire with a Kalashnikov in a busy area of the Austrian capital the day before the country went into a new coronavirus lockdown.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/austria-thanks-india-for-standing-in-difficult-times-says-will-defend-our-open-societies-340064">Austria thanks India for standing in difficult times; says will defend our open societies</a>

Police shot the gunman dead on Monday and later swooped on 18 different addresses and made 14 arrests as they looked for possible accomplices and sought to determine if he had acted alone.&nbsp;

The Vienna terror attack has been claimed by Islamic State (IS). It said on Tuesday that "soldier of the caliphate" was responsible for the carnage, according to its propaganda agency. Austrian Chancellor Sebastian Kurz called for a European response to "political Islam".

(With AFP inputs)

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

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

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

Gunmen traded fire with Afghan security forces in Kabul University's campus following a blast in the area on Monday (November 2), and at least six people were wounded, Afghan government officials said.

WION Dispatch: Gunmen battle Afghan security forces on Kabul University campus

French President Emmanuel Macron wants to introduce uniform civil code in France though he hasn't explicitly used the term. But he has laid out the details. He wants the French constitution to be above religion. He wants all French citizens to be equal before the law.

In December this year, Macron's government wants to table a bill. They want to strengthen an old law. A law made in the year 1905. The law officially separated the Church and the state in France. The law established state secularism in France. They call it Laicite. It was based on two principles&nbsp;

One, the neutrality of the state. And two, the freedom of religious practice. What Macron plans is to amen the second principle. He says people have the right to belong to any faith, but they should not have the right to display religious affiliation in schools or public service. 
&nbsp; 
What will the new law do?

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It will increase scrutiny of religious communities, their sources of funding and their association. Simply put, Macron wants to scrutinise Islamic activities in France, and rescue them from radicalism.

"It is this path that we are going to open together, that is to say, we are going to try together to build an organisation that will allow us, I hope &amp; I believe, to build an Islam of Enlightenment in our country, that is to say, an Islam that can be at peace with the French Republic. One which respects all the rules of separation and allows all voices to be pacified. It is not the job of the State to structure Islam, but we must allow &amp; accompany this emergence. Starting by freeing Islam in France from foreign influences," said Macron.

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The message is clear. France will not tolerate foreign funding from Islamic institutes. It will not allow foreign Islamic preachers to influence French Muslims anymore.

Why does France&nbsp;need these new rules?

Because there are fears that a section of French Muslims is being exposed to radical Islam. The dangerous brand of Islam is being imported and financed from abroad. Right now, France is said to have 300 'detached Imams' from abroad. They have no link to the French Republic. They are recruited by French mosques. These are foreigners filling vacancies in France. At least half of them, 150 Imams are said to be from Turkey. They may or may not understand French secularism.

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&nbsp;Macron government wants to keep a check on what they are preaching. They should explain why the Turkish President is making so much noise. 
&nbsp; 
The implications of the new French law are not limited to Turkey. They extend to the whole world. Because secular democracies world over are witnessing this clash. The clash between religious law and the constitution. So if France can make the constitution prevail over religion, it sets a precedent. Something that other countries can refer to and follow.

Countries like India. In India, the government is committed to introducing a uniform civil code. One law for all religions. Equal status to all citizens. If a liberal, centrist western leader like Macron can justify a uniform civil code of sorts, so can India. So can countries like Norway and Sweden. They have both sheltered and given citizenship to Muslim immigrants. Now they are struggling.

They are witnessing a cultural conflict, a clash of local laws with religious laws.

Last month, we saw riots after members of a far-right group set a copy of the Quran on Fire. This truly is a clash between Islamophobia and Islamofascism. Can France strike the balance? Can in rein in radicalism without giving in to Xenophobia?

Emmanuel Macron's approach may be unconventional, even uncomfortable for some. But there seems to be no other way to deal with asymmetric assualts and repeated terror attacks. It is time the world acknowledged this, supported Macron instead of playing politics over his law. 
&nbsp;

French President Emmanuel Macron wants to introduce uniform civil code in France though he hasn't explicitly used the term. But he has laid out the details. He wants the French constitution to be above religion.

French President Emmanuel Macron wants to introduce uniform civil code in France though he hasn't explicitly used the term. But he has laid out the details. He wants the French constitution to be above religion. He wants all French citizens to be equal before the law. In December this year, Macron's government wants to table a bill. They want to strengthen an old law. A law made in the year 1905. The law officially separated the Church and the state in France. The law established state secularism in France. They call it Laicite. It was based on two principles One, the neutrality of the state. And two, the freedom of religious practice. What Macron plans is to amen the second principle. He says people have the right to belong to any faith, but they should not have the right to display religious affiliation in schools or public service. What will the new law do? × It will increase scrutiny of religious communities, their sources of funding and their association. Simply put, Macron wants to scrutinise Islamic activities in France, and rescue them from radicalism. "It is this path that we are going to open together, that is to say, we are going to try together to build an organisation that will allow us, I hope & I believe, to build an Islam of Enlightenment in our country, that is to say, an Islam that can be at peace with the French Republic. One which respects all the rules of separation and allows all voices to be pacified. It is not the job of the State to structure Islam, but we must allow & accompany this emergence. Starting by freeing Islam in France from foreign influences," said Macron. Also Read | Brazilian national named victim of Nice attack The message is clear. France will not tolerate foreign funding from Islamic institutes. It will not allow foreign Islamic preachers to influence French Muslims anymore. Why does France need these new rules? Because there are fears that a section of French Muslims is being exposed to radical Islam. The dangerous brand of Islam is being imported and financed from abroad. Right now, France is said to have 300 'detached Imams' from abroad. They have no link to the French Republic. They are recruited by French mosques. These are foreigners filling vacancies in France. At least half of them, 150 Imams are said to be from Turkey. They may or may not understand French secularism. × Macron government wants to keep a check on what they are preaching. They should explain why the Turkish President is making so much noise. The implications of the new French law are not limited to Turkey. They extend to the whole world. Because secular democracies world over are witnessing this clash. The clash between religious law and the constitution. So if France can make the constitution prevail over religion, it sets a precedent. Something that other countries can refer to and follow. Countries like India. In India, the government is committed to introducing a uniform civil code. One law for all religions. Equal status to all citizens. If a liberal, centrist western leader like Macron can justify a uniform civil code of sorts, so can India. So can countries like Norway and Sweden. They have both sheltered and given citizenship to Muslim immigrants. Now they are struggling. They are witnessing a cultural conflict, a clash of local laws with religious laws. Last month, we saw riots after members of a far-right group set a copy of the Quran on Fire. This truly is a clash between Islamophobia and Islamofascism. Can France strike the balance? Can in rein in radicalism without giving in to Xenophobia? Emmanuel Macron's approach may be unconventional, even uncomfortable for some. But there seems to be no other way to deal with asymmetric assualts and repeated terror attacks. It is time the world acknowledged this, supported Macron instead of playing politics over his law.

It's time the world supported Macron on his new law

Virtual SIM cards pose a new headache for security agencies fighting terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir as their use in the valley has seen an increase among terror groups to connect with their handlers in Pakistan, officials said here.

The penetration of this new technology was found in 2019 when a request was sent to the United States to seek details from a service provider of "virtual SIMs" used by suicide bomber of Jaish-e-Mohammed terror group involved in the Pulwama attack that left 40 CRPF personnel dead.

However, a detailed investigation done by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) and other security agencies indicated that over 40 virtual SIM cards were used in the Pulwama attack alone, and there are probably more of them floating in the cyberspace of the valley, the officials said.

It is a fairly new modus operandi wherein terrorists across the border are using "virtual SIM" cards, generated by a service provider from a foreign country.

In this technology, the computer generates a telephone number and the user downloads an application of the service provider on their smartphone.

The number is linked to social networking sites like WhatsApp, Facebook, Telegram or Twitter.

The verification code for activating the service is generated by these networking sites and received on the smartphone.

The officials said the numbers used were pre-fixed with a country code or Mobile Station International Subscriber Directory Number (MSISDN) number.

They said that, besides telecom companies in the US, Canada, the UK, Israel, numbers of Puerto Rico, a Caribbean island being controlled by the US, are doing the rounds in the market.

Every mobile phone instrument is sent for a detailed forensic analysis to have a thorough check to look for any telltale signs of use of virtual SIM cards, the officials said.

Technology has its pros and cons, and while fighting terrorism, the security agencies have to not only keep up the pace but also move a step ahead of those planning to misuse it, says an official.

The risk of forging identities during purchase of virtual SIM cards also runs high.

During investigation of the 26/11 Mumbai attacks, it was found that an amount of USD 229 was wired to Callphonex, via Western Union Money Transfer receipt number 8364307716-0, for activating the Voice Over Internet Protocol (VoIP) used during the strikes.

The money was received from 'Madina Trading' located in Brescia in Italy and sender was claimed to be Javed Iqbal, a resident of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).

However, after Italian police arrested two Pakistani nationals in 2009, it was alleged that the firm had made nearly 300 transfers in the name of Iqbal, who probably had never set his foot in Italy.

The Italian police, while concluding the probe, had said the Brescia-based company made several transfers using the identity of innocent, unsuspecting persons, whose identity cards or passports might have been stolen.

Virtual SIM cards pose a new headache for security agencies fighting terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir as their use in the valley has seen an increase among terror groups to connect with their handlers in Pakistan, officials said here.

Virtual SIM cards pose a new headache for security agencies fighting terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir as their use in the valley has seen an increase among terror groups to connect with their handlers in Pakistan, officials said here. The penetration of this new technology was found in 2019 when a request was sent to the United States to seek details from a service provider of "virtual SIMs" used by suicide bomber of Jaish-e-Mohammed terror group involved in the Pulwama attack that left 40 CRPF personnel dead. However, a detailed investigation done by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) and other security agencies indicated that over 40 virtual SIM cards were used in the Pulwama attack alone, and there are probably more of them floating in the cyberspace of the valley, the officials said. It is a fairly new modus operandi wherein terrorists across the border are using "virtual SIM" cards, generated by a service provider from a foreign country. In this technology, the computer generates a telephone number and the user downloads an application of the service provider on their smartphone. The number is linked to social networking sites like WhatsApp, Facebook, Telegram or Twitter. The verification code for activating the service is generated by these networking sites and received on the smartphone. The officials said the numbers used were pre-fixed with a country code or Mobile Station International Subscriber Directory Number (MSISDN) number. They said that, besides telecom companies in the US, Canada, the UK, Israel, numbers of Puerto Rico, a Caribbean island being controlled by the US, are doing the rounds in the market. Every mobile phone instrument is sent for a detailed forensic analysis to have a thorough check to look for any telltale signs of use of virtual SIM cards, the officials said. Technology has its pros and cons, and while fighting terrorism, the security agencies have to not only keep up the pace but also move a step ahead of those planning to misuse it, says an official. The risk of forging identities during purchase of virtual SIM cards also runs high. During investigation of the 26/11 Mumbai attacks, it was found that an amount of USD 229 was wired to Callphonex, via Western Union Money Transfer receipt number 8364307716-0, for activating the Voice Over Internet Protocol (VoIP) used during the strikes. The money was received from 'Madina Trading' located in Brescia in Italy and sender was claimed to be Javed Iqbal, a resident of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). However, after Italian police arrested two Pakistani nationals in 2009, it was alleged that the firm had made nearly 300 transfers in the name of Iqbal, who probably had never set his foot in Italy. The Italian police, while concluding the probe, had said the Brescia-based company made several transfers using the identity of innocent, unsuspecting persons, whose identity cards or passports might have been stolen.

Virtual SIM cards pose new headache for security agencies in Jammu and Kashmir

That evening on September 26, 1980, Robert Platzer, then 12, was having a great night out. He had been on fairground rides, eaten bags of sweets and even bought a helium balloon -- all that a child dreams of at the Munich Oktoberfest.

He was just at the exit of the popular beer festival with his parents and four siblings when he saw a man with his arms in the rubbish bin, towards which his family was headed.&nbsp;

But at that moment, the bomb went off.

"There was a huge flame, I was thrown back several metres," Robert Hoeckmayr, who has since taken his wife's family name, told AFP in an interview.

A bomb in the trashcan had exploded just steps away from the merry-go-round and the beer tents.

Thirteen people -- including the bomber Gundolf Koehler -- were killed and more than 200 injured.&nbsp;

Four decades on, prosecutors in July finally classed it a political attack -- the deadliest far-right assault in post-war Germany.

Investigators initially assumed the 21-year-old Koehler was a depressed geology student, who had acted because of relationship problems and exam stress, downplaying his known links to the extremist scene.

But further revelations about the extent of Koehler's involvement with the far-right and speculation he may not have acted alone prompted prosecutors to reopen the investigation in 2014.

After interviewing over a thousand witnesses and combing through 300,000 documents, investigators believe Koehler aimed for the attack to be blamed on the far left.&nbsp;

His goal had been to influence that year's general election and usher in a conservative candidate as chancellor.

Survivors need help

The 40th anniversary of the attack on Saturday comes as far-right violence is once again on the rise in Germany, with a deadly attack targeting a synagogue in Halle in 2019 and another that left nine people of migrant origin dead in Hanau in February.

Hoeckmayr did not want to be drawn into discussing the political extremism that has sparked the violence. For him, more must be done to help survivors.

"I don't care from which side the attack comes from, the survivors need to be better taken care of," he said.

Hoeckmayr's experience underlines how the devastation wrought goes on far beyond that fateful day.

His eight-year-old sister Ilona was killed on the spot. His little brother, six, died on the way to the hospital in the ambulance. His parents were severely wounded.

His sister Elisabeth survived but died of a drug overdose at 24. His brother threw himself under a train in 2008, at age 42.

"They could not stand the pain. I am the sole survivor in this family," said Hoeckmayr, now 52 and a Munich city official.

He has had 41 operations to remove metal shards lodged all over his body.

"They didn't manage to remove all of them," said the tall man with greying hair.

But what was even more difficult to heal was the feeling of being "abandoned" by the German state after the attack.&nbsp;

"We were never offered psychological help. Several months after the attack, the doctors declared that I was healthy, just because I could walk," he said.&nbsp;

It was thanks to his wife and three children that he was able to pick up the pieces.

"They gave me the energy to live."

Beyond the lack of psychological support, he is also angry about the low level of financial aid provided to people wounded in the attack.

But that may soon change, with the city of Munich, the Bavarian state and Chancellor Angela Merkel's government to stump up 1.2 million euros ($1.4 million) for victims of the attack.

For Hoeckmayr, "40 years later is too late".

"It's not just about money but about helping people who have experienced terrible things to return to society," said Hoeckmayr, who refuses to be labelled a victim, saying he is a survivor.

He will participate in a ceremony on Saturday when Munich inaugurates a new information site that tells the story of the attack.

Underlining its importance, he said: "Here too, many people know that something happened on September 26, 1980, but they don't know what it is."

That evening on September 26, 1980, Robert Platzer, then 12, was having a great night out. He had been on fairground rides, eaten bags of sweets and even bought a helium balloon -- all that a child dreams of at the Munich Oktoberfest.

That evening on September 26, 1980, Robert Platzer, then 12, was having a great night out. He had been on fairground rides, eaten bags of sweets and even bought a helium balloon -- all that a child dreams of at the Munich Oktoberfest. He was just at the exit of the popular beer festival with his parents and four siblings when he saw a man with his arms in the rubbish bin, towards which his family was headed. But at that moment, the bomb went off. "There was a huge flame, I was thrown back several metres," Robert Hoeckmayr, who has since taken his wife's family name, told AFP in an interview. A bomb in the trashcan had exploded just steps away from the merry-go-round and the beer tents. Thirteen people -- including the bomber Gundolf Koehler -- were killed and more than 200 injured. Four decades on, prosecutors in July finally classed it a political attack -- the deadliest far-right assault in post-war Germany. Investigators initially assumed the 21-year-old Koehler was a depressed geology student, who had acted because of relationship problems and exam stress, downplaying his known links to the extremist scene. But further revelations about the extent of Koehler's involvement with the far-right and speculation he may not have acted alone prompted prosecutors to reopen the investigation in 2014. After interviewing over a thousand witnesses and combing through 300,000 documents, investigators believe Koehler aimed for the attack to be blamed on the far left. His goal had been to influence that year's general election and usher in a conservative candidate as chancellor. Survivors need help The 40th anniversary of the attack on Saturday comes as far-right violence is once again on the rise in Germany, with a deadly attack targeting a synagogue in Halle in 2019 and another that left nine people of migrant origin dead in Hanau in February. Hoeckmayr did not want to be drawn into discussing the political extremism that has sparked the violence. For him, more must be done to help survivors. "I don't care from which side the attack comes from, the survivors need to be better taken care of," he said. Hoeckmayr's experience underlines how the devastation wrought goes on far beyond that fateful day. His eight-year-old sister Ilona was killed on the spot. His little brother, six, died on the way to the hospital in the ambulance. His parents were severely wounded. His sister Elisabeth survived but died of a drug overdose at 24. His brother threw himself under a train in 2008, at age 42. "They could not stand the pain. I am the sole survivor in this family," said Hoeckmayr, now 52 and a Munich city official. He has had 41 operations to remove metal shards lodged all over his body. "They didn't manage to remove all of them," said the tall man with greying hair. But what was even more difficult to heal was the feeling of being "abandoned" by the German state after the attack. "We were never offered psychological help. Several months after the attack, the doctors declared that I was healthy, just because I could walk," he said. It was thanks to his wife and three children that he was able to pick up the pieces. "They gave me the energy to live." Beyond the lack of psychological support, he is also angry about the low level of financial aid provided to people wounded in the attack. But that may soon change, with the city of Munich, the Bavarian state and Chancellor Angela Merkel's government to stump up 1.2 million euros ($1.4 million) for victims of the attack. For Hoeckmayr, "40 years later is too late". "It's not just about money but about helping people who have experienced terrible things to return to society," said Hoeckmayr, who refuses to be labelled a victim, saying he is a survivor. He will participate in a ceremony on Saturday when Munich inaugurates a new information site that tells the story of the attack. Underlining its importance, he said: "Here too, many people know that something happened on September 26, 1980, but they don't know what it is."

Germany: 40 years after Oktoberfest attack, survivor's wounds still healing

Terrorists attacked a Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) party deployed at South Kashmir`s mini secretariat here.

No casualties or injuries reported so far and the area has been cordoned off.More details awaited.

On Thursday morning, a CRPF personnel succumbed to injuries sustained after terrorists attacked a CRPF party in Kaisermulla area at Chadoora in Budgam district of Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Terrorists attacked a Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) party deployed at South Kashmir`s mini secretariat here. No casualties or injuries reported so far and the area has been cordoned off.

Terrorists attacked a Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) party deployed at South Kashmir`s mini secretariat here. No casualties or injuries reported so far and the area has been cordoned off.More details awaited. On Thursday morning, a CRPF personnel succumbed to injuries sustained after terrorists attacked a CRPF party in Kaisermulla area at Chadoora in Budgam district of Jammu and Kashmir.

Terrorists attack security forces in Kashmir; no casualties reported

A UN report on terrorism has warned that there are significant numbers of ISIS terrorists in Kerala and Karnataka, noting that the al-Qaeda in the Indian Subcontinent terror group, which reportedly has between 150 and 200 militants from India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Myanmar, is planning attacks in the region.

UN report: 'Significant numbers' of ISIS terrorists in India's Kerala and Karnataka

Union Minister of State for Home Affairs, Nityanand Rai, on Sunday addressed virtual rally in Madhubani district of Bihar and said that "more than hundred terrorists were eliminated" this year in Kashmir, and Tral area is now a 'militancy free zone'&nbsp;in Kashmir.

"These are big achievements for security forces," he added.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/three-terrorists-killed-in-jks-pulwama-district-operation-underway-308735">Three terrorists killed in J&amp;K's Pulwama district, operation underway</a>

Rai in his speech said that Home Ministry is monitoring the situation in flood-affected areas of Bihar in close coordination with state administration, and would render all possible assistance.

He said that more 1,300 special shramik trains have run for Bihar, bringing back more than 20 lakh stranded migrants from different part of country.

"We are committed to provide jobs to migrants who return home," he said.

Rai further claimed that under leadership of Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, NDA will win atleast 220 Assembly seats out of 243 in the state.

Union Minister of State for Home Affairs, Nityanand Rai, on Sunday addressed virtual rally in Madhubani district of Bihar and said that "more than hundred terrorists were eliminated" this year in Kashmir, and Tral area is now a 'militancy free zone' in Kashmir.

Union Minister of State for Home Affairs, Nityanand Rai, on Sunday addressed virtual rally in Madhubani district of Bihar and said that "more than hundred terrorists were eliminated" this year in Kashmir, and Tral area is now a 'militancy free zone' in Kashmir. "These are big achievements for security forces," he added. Also read: Three terrorists killed in J&K's Pulwama district, operation underway Rai in his speech said that Home Ministry is monitoring the situation in flood-affected areas of Bihar in close coordination with state administration, and would render all possible assistance. He said that more 1,300 special shramik trains have run for Bihar, bringing back more than 20 lakh stranded migrants from different part of country. "We are committed to provide jobs to migrants who return home," he said. Rai further claimed that under leadership of Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, NDA will win atleast 220 Assembly seats out of 243 in the state.

More than 100 terrorists eliminated in Kashmir this year, says Union Minister of State for Home Affairs Nityanand Rai

A haunting photograph of a minor who died in Kashmir was beamed across TV screens. Are disturbing pictures the only way to tell a story? WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma Upadhyay brings you some food for thought.

Gravitas: Food for Thought: Should the suffering of children be shown on TV?

Truck with explosives blows up near a court in the Afghan city of Gardez on Thursday. The explosion has killed at least five people. This attack comes two days after gunmen attacked a maternity ward in Kabul.&nbsp;

"A car bomb explosion took place near a military court in Gardez city, which is a populated area. Dozens of civilians are feared to be dead and wounded," said Tariq Arian, an interior ministry spokesman.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/newborn-babies-among-40-killed-as-two-terror-attacks-rock-afghanistan-forces-to-resume-offensive-operations-298326">Newborn babies among 40 killed as two terror attacks rock Afghanistan; forces to resume offensive operations</a>

A military spokesman, Emal Khan Momand said that the attack took place by a truck that had explosives in it, and the blast killed around five people and injured 14.&nbsp;

There has been no immediate claim of responsibility for the attack but the interior ministry spokesperson has blamed it on Haqqani network. The Haqqani networks have ties with Taliban rebels and the Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba militant group. They have rarely claimed responsibility for any attacks.&nbsp;

Earlier, two attacks took place in Kabul. The first terror attack was conducted on a 100-bed facility maternity hospital, took place in a Shia-populated area of Kabul and involved three gunmen.&nbsp;

Two newborn babies and several women were among 14 civilians killed and 15 injured in the attack.

More than 100 people were rescued during the hours-long attack on the hospital. The Dasht-e-Barchi area, where the hospital is located, is largely inhabited by the Shia Hazara community, which has been repeatedly targeted by Daesh.

The second strike was on a funeral procession for a local police chief which was taking place in a district of eastern Nangarhar province. It included lawmakers and provincial council members.&nbsp;

At least 26 people died and over 60 were injured in the suicide blast.

The attacker detonated his explosives in the middle of the ceremony, said Ataullah Khogyani, spokesman for the governor of Nangarhar province.

Truck with explosives blows up near a court in the Afghan city of Gardez on Thursday. The explosion has killed at least five people. This attack comes two days after gunmen attacked a maternity ward in Kabul.

Truck with explosives blows up near a court in the Afghan city of Gardez on Thursday. The explosion has killed at least five people. This attack comes two days after gunmen attacked a maternity ward in Kabul. "A car bomb explosion took place near a military court in Gardez city, which is a populated area. Dozens of civilians are feared to be dead and wounded," said Tariq Arian, an interior ministry spokesman. Also read: Newborn babies among 40 killed as two terror attacks rock Afghanistan; forces to resume offensive operations A military spokesman, Emal Khan Momand said that the attack took place by a truck that had explosives in it, and the blast killed around five people and injured 14. There has been no immediate claim of responsibility for the attack but the interior ministry spokesperson has blamed it on Haqqani network. The Haqqani networks have ties with Taliban rebels and the Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba militant group. They have rarely claimed responsibility for any attacks. Earlier, two attacks took place in Kabul. The first terror attack was conducted on a 100-bed facility maternity hospital, took place in a Shia-populated area of Kabul and involved three gunmen. Two newborn babies and several women were among 14 civilians killed and 15 injured in the attack. More than 100 people were rescued during the hours-long attack on the hospital. The Dasht-e-Barchi area, where the hospital is located, is largely inhabited by the Shia Hazara community, which has been repeatedly targeted by Daesh. The second strike was on a funeral procession for a local police chief which was taking place in a district of eastern Nangarhar province. It included lawmakers and provincial council members. At least 26 people died and over 60 were injured in the suicide blast. The attacker detonated his explosives in the middle of the ceremony, said Ataullah Khogyani, spokesman for the governor of Nangarhar province.

Truck packed with explosives detonates in Afghanistan, claims 5 lives injures 14

Following intelligence inputs of a possible terror attack along the western coast, Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC) has been imposed in North Goa.&nbsp;

North Goa District Magistrate R Menaka said that the law will be placed for 60 days, effective from February 11 to April 10.&nbsp;

The police said that under Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC) large gatherings are banned in north Goa. The notification released by the district magistrate also talked of the possibility of "anti-social elements committing crime".&nbsp; &nbsp;

"It is absolutely necessary to take speedy measures to prevent danger to human life, and thwart and prevent any type of terrorist activities which may affect the security of the state and create disturbance of public order and tranquillity," Menaka said.&nbsp;

The district magistrate has also asked owners of houses, hotels, lodgings, private guest houses, and paying guest accommodations of religious institutions to strictly verify people before allowing them to enter their premises on lease or rent.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Following intelligence inputs of a possible terror attack along the western coast, Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC) has been imposed in North Goa.

Following intelligence inputs of a possible terror attack along the western coast, Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC) has been imposed in North Goa. North Goa District Magistrate R Menaka said that the law will be placed for 60 days, effective from February 11 to April 10. The police said that under Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC) large gatherings are banned in north Goa. The notification released by the district magistrate also talked of the possibility of "anti-social elements committing crime". "It is absolutely necessary to take speedy measures to prevent danger to human life, and thwart and prevent any type of terrorist activities which may affect the security of the state and create disturbance of public order and tranquillity," Menaka said. The district magistrate has also asked owners of houses, hotels, lodgings, private guest houses, and paying guest accommodations of religious institutions to strictly verify people before allowing them to enter their premises on lease or rent.

Section 144 imposed in North Goa following terror threats; large gatherings banned

Jammu and Kashmir Police on Thursday said that it has busted a Jaish-e-Mohammed terror module and averted major terror attack planned on January 26, news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;

The J&amp;K police said it had worked out two grenade attacks and arrested two terrorists. A total of five terrorists were arrested by the police.&nbsp;

"Given the kind of explosives which have been recovered, it seems they were planning a big attack. An investigation is being done to find out the further plan," DIG, Central Kashmir, VK Birdi told reporters.&nbsp;

The arrested terrorists have been identified as Ejaz Ahmed Sheikh, Umar Hamid Sheikh, Imtiaz Ahmed, Sahil Farooq Gujari, Naseer Ahmed Mir. All of them are the residents of Hazratbal.

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DIG, Central Kashmir, VK Birdi on 5 terrorists of Jaish-e-Mohammad arrested by Srinagar Police: Given the kind of explosives which have been recovered, it seems they were planning a big attack. Investigation is being done to find out the further plan. <a href="https://t.co/yHiWcGDYMP">pic.twitter.com/yHiWcGDYMP</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1217796816533504000?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 16, 2020</a></blockquote>
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This comes after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jk-hizbul-mujahideen-terrorist-killed-during-encounter-with-security-forces-274159">security forces killed a terrorist on Monday</a> in Jammu and Kashmir's Budgam district.&nbsp;

The slain terrorist was later identified as Adil Gulzar Ganie affiliated to proscribed terror outfit Hizbul Mujahideen. The police had also recovered arms and ammunition.

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J&amp;K Police: Srinagar Police has busted Jaish-e-Mohammad terror module, averted major terror attack planned on 26th January and worked out 2 earlier grenade attacks. 2 terrorists have been arrested <a href="https://t.co/LvnTJeGSXd">pic.twitter.com/LvnTJeGSXd</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1217770925757616128?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 16, 2020</a></blockquote>
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According to Kashmir Zone Police, Ganie was a resident of Dalvan Budgam and had been involved in several terror crimes and civilian atrocities.

"Budgam encounter update: Killed terrorist identified as Adil Gulzar Ganie of Dalvan Budgam. As per police records affiliated with proscribed terror outfit HM. Involved in several terror crimes &amp; civilian atrocities," Kashmir Zone Police had tweeted.

On Sunday, three Hizbul terrorists were gunned down by police in Tral region of Pulwama.&nbsp;

(With inputs from ANI)

Jammu and Kashmir Police on Thursday said that it has busted a Jaish-e-Mohammed terror module and averted major terror attack planned on January 26, news agency ANI reported.

Jammu and Kashmir Police on Thursday said that it has busted a Jaish-e-Mohammed terror module and averted major terror attack planned on January 26, news agency ANI reported. The J&K police said it had worked out two grenade attacks and arrested two terrorists. A total of five terrorists were arrested by the police. "Given the kind of explosives which have been recovered, it seems they were planning a big attack. An investigation is being done to find out the further plan," DIG, Central Kashmir, VK Birdi told reporters. The arrested terrorists have been identified as Ejaz Ahmed Sheikh, Umar Hamid Sheikh, Imtiaz Ahmed, Sahil Farooq Gujari, Naseer Ahmed Mir. All of them are the residents of Hazratbal. DIG, Central Kashmir, VK Birdi on 5 terrorists of Jaish-e-Mohammad arrested by Srinagar Police: Given the kind of explosives which have been recovered, it seems they were planning a big attack. Investigation is being done to find out the further plan. pic.twitter.com/yHiWcGDYMP — ANI (@ANI) January 16, 2020 × This comes after security forces killed a terrorist on Monday in Jammu and Kashmir's Budgam district. The slain terrorist was later identified as Adil Gulzar Ganie affiliated to proscribed terror outfit Hizbul Mujahideen. The police had also recovered arms and ammunition. J&K Police: Srinagar Police has busted Jaish-e-Mohammad terror module, averted major terror attack planned on 26th January and worked out 2 earlier grenade attacks. 2 terrorists have been arrested pic.twitter.com/LvnTJeGSXd — ANI (@ANI) January 16, 2020 × According to Kashmir Zone Police, Ganie was a resident of Dalvan Budgam and had been involved in several terror crimes and civilian atrocities. "Budgam encounter update: Killed terrorist identified as Adil Gulzar Ganie of Dalvan Budgam. As per police records affiliated with proscribed terror outfit HM. Involved in several terror crimes & civilian atrocities," Kashmir Zone Police had tweeted. On Sunday, three Hizbul terrorists were gunned down by police in Tral region of Pulwama. (With inputs from ANI)

J&K Police busts Jaish terror module, averts major terror attack ahead of Republic Day 

January 2 in History: From world getting its first air conditioner to Pathankot attacks

After fresh intelligence inputs suggested that a group of terrorists from Pakistan has infiltrated into India, defence bases in Punjab and Jammu area have been placed on high alert.

"The defence bases in and around Punjab and Jammu are on high alert. The Indian Air Force has put its airbases in Punjab including Pathankot and Jammu on orange alert," government sources said.

"The inputs were received by forces today morning after which they are taking all precautions to protect the defence bases," they said.

A few days ago, the bases were on high alert but the alert levels were brought down a couple of days later, they said.

There have been reports of a possible terror attack on major defence facilities since August 5 when the Centre moved to abrogate Article 370 that granted a special status to Jammu and Kashmir.

Late last month, intelligence agencies had issued a warning against a module of eight to ten Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terrorists. The input suggests that the terror group may possibly try to carry out a suicide attack against air force bases in and around Jammu and Kashmir.

After fresh intelligence inputs suggested that a group of terrorists from Pakistan has infiltrated into India, defence bases in Punjab and Jammu area have been placed on high alert.

After fresh intelligence inputs suggested that a group of terrorists from Pakistan has infiltrated into India, defence bases in Punjab and Jammu area have been placed on high alert. "The defence bases in and around Punjab and Jammu are on high alert. The Indian Air Force has put its airbases in Punjab including Pathankot and Jammu on orange alert," government sources said. "The inputs were received by forces today morning after which they are taking all precautions to protect the defence bases," they said. A few days ago, the bases were on high alert but the alert levels were brought down a couple of days later, they said. There have been reports of a possible terror attack on major defence facilities since August 5 when the Centre moved to abrogate Article 370 that granted a special status to Jammu and Kashmir. Late last month, intelligence agencies had issued a warning against a module of eight to ten Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terrorists. The input suggests that the terror group may possibly try to carry out a suicide attack against air force bases in and around Jammu and Kashmir.

Defence bases in Punjab, Jammu on orange alert after fresh intelligence input of terror attack

Incessant rain threatened the first day-night international between Pakistan and Sri Lanka on Friday, the first in Karachi for 10 years.

The pitch and its adjoining areas were covered as the scheduled toss at 2:30 pm (0930 GMT) were delayed with both teams inside their dressing rooms.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/karachi-gears-up-for-first-one-day-international-in-10-years-252234">Karachi</a> has not hosted a one-day international since January 2009 when Sri Lanka played two back-to-back matches at the National Stadium.

But in March of that year, during the same tour, the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sri-lanka-squad-leave-for-pakistan-despite-security-concerns-251698">Sri Lankan team</a> bus was <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/watch-pakistani-bus-driver-for-2009-sri-lanka-team-recalls-attack-23006">attacked in Lahore</a>,&nbsp;forcing the suspension of international cricket in Pakistan.

Pakistan, forced to play home matches in the neutral venues of the United Arab Emirates, convinced Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) to send their team, assuring them of stringent security with 2,000 personnel guarding the teams around the hotel and stadium.

Ten top Sri Lankan players, including their ODI captain Dimuth Karunaratne and former captains Angelo Mathews and Dinesh Chandimal, withdrew from the tour.

The tour was stalled after SLC received threats of possible terror attacks on their team in Pakistan before getting the all-clear last week.

The remaining two ODIs will be played in Karachi on Sunday and Wednesday.

Sri Lanka will also play three Twenty20 internationals in Lahore on October 5, 7 and 9.

Incessant rain threatened the first day-night international between Pakistan and Sri Lanka on Friday, the first in Karachi for 10 years. The pitch and its adjoining areas were covered as the scheduled toss at 2:30 pm (0930 GMT) were delayed with both teams inside their dressing rooms.

Incessant rain threatened the first day-night international between Pakistan and Sri Lanka on Friday, the first in Karachi for 10 years. The pitch and its adjoining areas were covered as the scheduled toss at 2:30 pm (0930 GMT) were delayed with both teams inside their dressing rooms. Karachi has not hosted a one-day international since January 2009 when Sri Lanka played two back-to-back matches at the National Stadium. But in March of that year, during the same tour, the Sri Lankan team bus was attacked in Lahore, forcing the suspension of international cricket in Pakistan. Pakistan, forced to play home matches in the neutral venues of the United Arab Emirates, convinced Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) to send their team, assuring them of stringent security with 2,000 personnel guarding the teams around the hotel and stadium. Ten top Sri Lankan players, including their ODI captain Dimuth Karunaratne and former captains Angelo Mathews and Dinesh Chandimal, withdrew from the tour. The tour was stalled after SLC received threats of possible terror attacks on their team in Pakistan before getting the all-clear last week. The remaining two ODIs will be played in Karachi on Sunday and Wednesday. Sri Lanka will also play three Twenty20 internationals in Lahore on October 5, 7 and 9.

Rain threatens one-day international return in Karachi

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