Pakistani security agencies on Thursday arrested two suspects believed to have been involved in car bomb blast outside terrorist Hafiz Saeed's house. Hafiz Saeed is the mastermind of 2008 Mumbai terror attack and chief of banned terrorist group Jamat-ud-Dawa (JuD).

Pakistan's Crime Investigation Department has arrested two suspects. On of the arrested is a Christian. The person had a connection with the sale and purchase of the car used for that. PTI stated this quoting a CTD official.

The official did not disclose the identity of the suspects. However, the Associated Press named one of the arrested as David Peter.

Pakistan's Geo TV has reported intelligence agencies have arrested the second man from Lahore airport. The news report quoted police officials to say that the man was asked to get off a Karachi-bound plane just a few minutes before take-off.

He was taken to an undisclosed location for further investigation, the report said.

"We are getting a lead from the arrested persons to the main culprits," the CTD official said, adding that different teams have been formed to probe the matter.

The arrests came after the security agencies conducted raids across different cities of Punjab in connection with the blast.

An FIR has been registered against 'unknown terrorists' under terrorism and other charges, said police.

Three persons were killed and 21 others injured when the powerful car bomb exploded outside Saeed's residence at the Board of Revenue (BOR) Housing Society in Johar Town on Wednesday morning, resulting in serious injuries to some police officers guarding his house. The windows and walls of Saeed's house were damaged from the impact of the blast.

No group has claimed responsibility for the blast.

Pakistani security agencies on Thursday arrested two suspects believed to have been involved in car bomb blast outside terrorist Hafiz Saeed's house. Hafiz Saeed is the mastermind of 2008 Mumbai terror attack and chief of banned terrorist group Jamat-ud-Dawa (JuD).

Pakistani security agencies on Thursday arrested two suspects believed to have been involved in car bomb blast outside terrorist Hafiz Saeed's house. Hafiz Saeed is the mastermind of 2008 Mumbai terror attack and chief of banned terrorist group Jamat-ud-Dawa (JuD). Pakistan's Crime Investigation Department has arrested two suspects. On of the arrested is a Christian. The person had a connection with the sale and purchase of the car used for that. PTI stated this quoting a CTD official. The official did not disclose the identity of the suspects. However, the Associated Press named one of the arrested as David Peter. Pakistan's Geo TV has reported intelligence agencies have arrested the second man from Lahore airport. The news report quoted police officials to say that the man was asked to get off a Karachi-bound plane just a few minutes before take-off. He was taken to an undisclosed location for further investigation, the report said. "We are getting a lead from the arrested persons to the main culprits," the CTD official said, adding that different teams have been formed to probe the matter. The arrests came after the security agencies conducted raids across different cities of Punjab in connection with the blast. An FIR has been registered against 'unknown terrorists' under terrorism and other charges, said police. Three persons were killed and 21 others injured when the powerful car bomb exploded outside Saeed's residence at the Board of Revenue (BOR) Housing Society in Johar Town on Wednesday morning, resulting in serious injuries to some police officers guarding his house. The windows and walls of Saeed's house were damaged from the impact of the blast. No group has claimed responsibility for the blast.

Pakistan: 2 suspects arrested over blast outside terrorist Hafiz Saeed's house

India's National Security Advisor Ajit Doval has proposed an "action plan" against Pakistan-based terror groups like Lashkar-e-Tayyeba (LeT) and Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) NSAs meet on Wednesday.

The action to be taken on these terror groups has been proposed under SCO framework.

LeT and JeM has been responsible for many terror attacks in India, especially in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. JeM, created with the support of Pakistan spy agency, was responsible for the Pulwama terror attack in which 40 Indian soldiers died.

During the meet, which was also attended by Pakistan NSA Moeed Yusuf, Indian side also called for full implementation of UN resolutions and targetted sanctions against UN-designated terrorist individuals and entities.

Pakistan hosts one of the largest number of UN listed international terrorists. It has been seen to have been lax on efforts to bring them to book, so much so that Islamabad even applied for 'pensions' for listed terrorist like Hafiz Saeed. Saeed is the founder of LeT.

During the in-person meet in Tajik Capital Dushanbe, Indian NSA "strongly condemned terrorism in all forms and manifestations", sources said, pointing out that "perpetrators of terrorism including cross-border terror attacks should be expeditiously brought to justice."

More than a decade after the 26/11 terror attacks, Pakistan still has to act the perpetrators who are inside the country.

Interestingly, India also emphasised on adoption of international standards to counter terror financing including an MOU between SCO and Financial Action Task Force (FATF). It is an anti-terror-financing body.&nbsp;

The NSA underlined that in order to effectively combat terrorism, we need to monitor new technologies used by terrorists. This included use of drones and misuse of dark web, artificial intelligence, blockchain and social media.

During the meet, he highlighted connectivity projects like Chahbahar, INSTC, regional air corridors which are leading to "economic gains and building trust" but pointed out that "connectivity must respect sovereignty and territorial integrity".&nbsp;

China's mega infrastructure programme China Pakistan Economic Corridor or CPEC passes through Pakistan Occupied Kashmir. This has been a cause of concern for New Delhi, which has consistently raised matter with Beijing.

On Afghanistan, Doval called the need to preserve gains made in last two decades in Afghanistan and give top priority to welfare of its people &amp; extended full support to SCO Contact Group on Afghanistan, "which should be more active."

At the SCO meet, Doval had over 2 hours long meeting with Russian NSA Nikolai Patrushev during which issues of mutual interest were discussed.

India's National Security Advisor Ajit Doval has proposed an "action plan" against Pakistan-based terror groups like Lashkar-e-Tayyeba (LeT) and Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) NSAs meet on Wednesday.

India's National Security Advisor Ajit Doval has proposed an "action plan" against Pakistan-based terror groups like Lashkar-e-Tayyeba (LeT) and Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) NSAs meet on Wednesday. The action to be taken on these terror groups has been proposed under SCO framework. LeT and JeM has been responsible for many terror attacks in India, especially in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. JeM, created with the support of Pakistan spy agency, was responsible for the Pulwama terror attack in which 40 Indian soldiers died. During the meet, which was also attended by Pakistan NSA Moeed Yusuf, Indian side also called for full implementation of UN resolutions and targetted sanctions against UN-designated terrorist individuals and entities. Pakistan hosts one of the largest number of UN listed international terrorists. It has been seen to have been lax on efforts to bring them to book, so much so that Islamabad even applied for 'pensions' for listed terrorist like Hafiz Saeed. Saeed is the founder of LeT. During the in-person meet in Tajik Capital Dushanbe, Indian NSA "strongly condemned terrorism in all forms and manifestations", sources said, pointing out that "perpetrators of terrorism including cross-border terror attacks should be expeditiously brought to justice." More than a decade after the 26/11 terror attacks, Pakistan still has to act the perpetrators who are inside the country. Interestingly, India also emphasised on adoption of international standards to counter terror financing including an MOU between SCO and Financial Action Task Force (FATF). It is an anti-terror-financing body. The NSA underlined that in order to effectively combat terrorism, we need to monitor new technologies used by terrorists. This included use of drones and misuse of dark web, artificial intelligence, blockchain and social media. During the meet, he highlighted connectivity projects like Chahbahar, INSTC, regional air corridors which are leading to "economic gains and building trust" but pointed out that "connectivity must respect sovereignty and territorial integrity". China's mega infrastructure programme China Pakistan Economic Corridor or CPEC passes through Pakistan Occupied Kashmir. This has been a cause of concern for New Delhi, which has consistently raised matter with Beijing. On Afghanistan, Doval called the need to preserve gains made in last two decades in Afghanistan and give top priority to welfare of its people & extended full support to SCO Contact Group on Afghanistan, "which should be more active." At the SCO meet, Doval had over 2 hours long meeting with Russian NSA Nikolai Patrushev during which issues of mutual interest were discussed.

NSA Ajit Doval proposes action against Pakistan terror groups at SCO meet

Sri Lanka's president pardoned 16 men linked to the Tamil Tiger rebels on Thursday, as the country faced renewed pressure from the UN over detentions without charge under an anti-terrorism law.

The pardon is a first for people linked to the Tigers since Gotabaya Rajapaksa came to power in 2019 on a nationalist agenda, which included a promise that troops who crushed the rebels would not be prosecuted.

The men were convicted under the Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA) that gives security forces sweeping powers to arrest and detain suspects.&nbsp;

The UN Human Rights Council and other international rights groups have called for it to be repealed.&nbsp;

"The 16 Tamil detainees are among 94 prisoners who received a presidential pardon," prison superintendent Chandana Ekanayake said about the release that came on the Buddhist festival of Poson.&nbsp;

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The men had been behind bars for at least a decade, he added.

Government officials said the release was the first phase of a plan to free all those held or charged under the PTA.

Another 78 people arrested under the law on suspicion of supporting the separatist Tamil Tigers have been in custody for decades, political sources from the Tamil community told AFP.

Lawmaker Namal Rajapaksa, the president's nephew and son of Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa, told parliament this week that some of those detained had been in jail since before he was born in&nbsp;1986.

He added that his government is working to free them. The law allows suspects to be held without charge for long periods of time.&nbsp;

The UN Human Rights Council last week&nbsp;urged the government to either charge or release those detained under the PTA, including human rights activists who were recently arrested.&nbsp;

Critics warn the law is being used as a weapon targeting dissidents and minorities in the fractured country.

The Tigers were crushed in a no-holds-barred military campaign that ended in May 2009.

International rights groups, including the UN, have called on Sri Lanka to ensure accountability for atrocities allegedly committed when thousands of civilians were killed in the final stages of the 37-year separatist war.

The military has denied the allegations and the Rajapaksa government has slammed the criticism as politically motivated.

Sri Lanka's president pardoned 16 men linked to the Tamil Tiger rebels on Thursday, as the country faced renewed pressure from the UN over detentions without charge under an anti-terrorism law.

Sri Lanka's president pardoned 16 men linked to the Tamil Tiger rebels on Thursday, as the country faced renewed pressure from the UN over detentions without charge under an anti-terrorism law. The pardon is a first for people linked to the Tigers since Gotabaya Rajapaksa came to power in 2019 on a nationalist agenda, which included a promise that troops who crushed the rebels would not be prosecuted. The men were convicted under the Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA) that gives security forces sweeping powers to arrest and detain suspects. The UN Human Rights Council and other international rights groups have called for it to be repealed. "The 16 Tamil detainees are among 94 prisoners who received a presidential pardon," prison superintendent Chandana Ekanayake said about the release that came on the Buddhist festival of Poson. Also Read | Almost 2,000 Venezuelan refugees murdered in Colombia in five years, NGO says The men had been behind bars for at least a decade, he added. Government officials said the release was the first phase of a plan to free all those held or charged under the PTA. Another 78 people arrested under the law on suspicion of supporting the separatist Tamil Tigers have been in custody for decades, political sources from the Tamil community told AFP. Lawmaker Namal Rajapaksa, the president's nephew and son of Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa, told parliament this week that some of those detained had been in jail since before he was born in 1986. He added that his government is working to free them. The law allows suspects to be held without charge for long periods of time. The UN Human Rights Council last week urged the government to either charge or release those detained under the PTA, including human rights activists who were recently arrested. Critics warn the law is being used as a weapon targeting dissidents and minorities in the fractured country. The Tigers were crushed in a no-holds-barred military campaign that ended in May 2009. International rights groups, including the UN, have called on Sri Lanka to ensure accountability for atrocities allegedly committed when thousands of civilians were killed in the final stages of the 37-year separatist war. The military has denied the allegations and the Rajapaksa government has slammed the criticism as politically motivated.

Sri Lanka pardons suspected Tamil Tigers convicted under terrorism law

Syeda Aiman has learned to shoot while she skates. She isn’t a hockey player, but an officer on a counterterrorism unit in Pakistan.

The 20-member unit carries out counterterrorism surveillance and community policing on in-line skates. It also has an equal number of male and female officers. Both facts are rarities in this city of at least 15 million, where the roads are crumbling and nearly every institution is male-dominated.

Police officials say the unit, which first appeared in public in December, is a success. Critics call it a gimmick. But most Karachiites can at least agree that it’s been odd to see armed officers skating through their shopping malls.

“It’s a new concept for the public,” Aiman, 25, said. “When we started skating we were excited, but also nervous about falling. But the fear goes away when you’re in the field.”

To some degree, the unit is a response to a public relations crisis. Police departments in Pakistan are among the country’s “most widely feared, complained against and least trusted government institutions,” the advocacy group Human Rights Watch said in a 2016 report. Pakistan’s prime minister, Imran Khan, rose to power in 2018 in part by promising police reform.

This month, nine police officers were suspended in the eastern city of Lahore after they jailed employees of a restaurant that had refused to give them free burgers. Many people saw that incident as a sign that police corruption was still rampant.

Fear and mistrust of the police run high in Karachi, where several officers have been charged with killing civilians in staged shootouts. In one high-profile example, a police inquiry found two years ago that Karachi officers had killed an aspiring model and three others, then falsely claimed that the victims were militants. The commander in charge of the operation, Rao Anwar, is now on trial for murder.

Maqsood Ahmed, a deputy inspector general with the regional Sindh Police, said the new in-line skating unit was designed in part to address criticism that Karachi police officers didn’t know how to interact with civilians. The sight of officers on skates, he added, has helped to “lighten the mood” in malls and other family-friendly places where they patrol.

“People should feel that they are our friends and that they are there to protect us,” he said.

But the skating unit isn’t just out to make friends.

Ahmed said its primary responsibility was counterterrorism surveillance in public areas, including parks and cricket stadiums. He said the in-line commandos had already made arrests, improved the force’s response rate at crime scenes and protected several high-profile officials, including Khan and President Arif Alvi.

Aiman, who joined the Sindh Police two years ago, said she had a deep commitment to the counterterrorism wing that her in-line skating unit belongs to. As a girl, she paid close attention to the Pakistani military’s crackdown on insurgents in mountainous tribal areas, and she used to volunteer at a Karachi arms fair.

“I believe that terrorists deserve to die,” she said over breakfast at her apartment. “You have to kill them. They don’t deserve to be alive.”

Cities in Britain, France, the Netherlands and elsewhere have started skating police units over the years, with mixed results. Mudassir Ali, a Sindh Special Security Unit police commando who has trained officers for the skating unit, said that he modelled it on examples from abroad.

Ali said those on skates typically worked in tandem with officers in patrol cars and that they had been trained to jump and climb stairs in “areas that don’t have the best roads or infrastructure.”

Even though the commandos mostly help to maintain public order in places like malls and popular street food areas, he added, they are armed and ready to shoot criminals if necessary.

“We can even hold onto a car at 120 kilometres per hour,” or 75 mph, he said.

Not everyone is impressed.

Jasim Rizvi, a resident of Karachi’s middle-class Gulshan-e-Iqbal neighbourhood, said he saw the unit as a publicity stunt.

“Maybe the police had nothing to do so they decided to hop on skates,” said Rizvi, who was recently mugged outside his home. “I only see the police in action when they’re accompanying so-called VVIPs.”

Putting officers on skates to improve the police force’s relationship with the community could potentially make sense in Karachi, but not if they are armed, said Zoha Waseem, a research fellow at the Institute for Global City Policing at University College London.

There is little evidence from other cities that in-line skating units help police forces fight crime, she added. Also, Karachi is full of potholes.

“This is why it’s hard to see this initiative as something more than police propaganda,” she said. “We don’t know how sustainable it will be, and I wonder if this budget could have better been spent elsewhere.”

Ahmed said the unit had another purpose beyond community engagement and crime-fighting: empowering women. Many of its 10 female officers are from impoverished rural areas of Sindh province, he added, and the unit is a “merit-based” outfit created in part to combat entrenched sexism.

“We say that there should be equality between men and women at workplaces, but this is not always possible due to cultural issues,” he said.

Women walking alone in Pakistan draw stares, or worse; sexual harassment is common in workplaces and beyond; and the country has one of the highest gender pay gaps in the world. Khan, the prime minister, drew a backlash in April for saying that rape cases had risen because of how women dressed.

Aiman, who grew up in Karachi, said that as she trained for the in-line skating unit, she learned strategies for projecting authority and avoiding situations in which people could try to take advantage of her because of her gender.

“The way people look at men and women is different, especially female police officers and especially female officers on in-line skates,” she said.

In-line skating is trendy in a few of Karachi’s middle-class neighbourhoods, but Aiman did not know what it was until a police colleague explained the activity to her last year.

Her relatives were sceptical about it, she said, and she suffered minor injuries during training sessions. But after about two weeks, she was weaving through crowds at cricket stadiums and other public places, with a watchful eye on crowds and a holstered handgun on her belt.

“Our training is quite good,” she said. “When we skate, we’re in control and we keep a strong grip on our weapons.”

Now her friends want to take skating lessons, too, and her parents and siblings are coming around to the idea of having an in-line skating officer in the family. The other day they were surprised — and impressed — to see her climb a staircase with her skates on.

“They made me do it again, just to make sure,” Aiman said.

Syeda Aiman has learned to shoot while she skates. She isn’t a hockey player, but an officer on a counterterrorism unit in Pakistan. The 20-member unit carries out counterterrorism surveillance and community policing on in-line skates.

Syeda Aiman has learned to shoot while she skates. She isn’t a hockey player, but an officer on a counterterrorism unit in Pakistan. The 20-member unit carries out counterterrorism surveillance and community policing on in-line skates. It also has an equal number of male and female officers. Both facts are rarities in this city of at least 15 million, where the roads are crumbling and nearly every institution is male-dominated. Police officials say the unit, which first appeared in public in December, is a success. Critics call it a gimmick. But most Karachiites can at least agree that it’s been odd to see armed officers skating through their shopping malls. “It’s a new concept for the public,” Aiman, 25, said. “When we started skating we were excited, but also nervous about falling. But the fear goes away when you’re in the field.” To some degree, the unit is a response to a public relations crisis. Police departments in Pakistan are among the country’s “most widely feared, complained against and least trusted government institutions,” the advocacy group Human Rights Watch said in a 2016 report. Pakistan’s prime minister, Imran Khan, rose to power in 2018 in part by promising police reform. This month, nine police officers were suspended in the eastern city of Lahore after they jailed employees of a restaurant that had refused to give them free burgers. Many people saw that incident as a sign that police corruption was still rampant. Fear and mistrust of the police run high in Karachi, where several officers have been charged with killing civilians in staged shootouts. In one high-profile example, a police inquiry found two years ago that Karachi officers had killed an aspiring model and three others, then falsely claimed that the victims were militants. The commander in charge of the operation, Rao Anwar, is now on trial for murder. Maqsood Ahmed, a deputy inspector general with the regional Sindh Police, said the new in-line skating unit was designed in part to address criticism that Karachi police officers didn’t know how to interact with civilians. The sight of officers on skates, he added, has helped to “lighten the mood” in malls and other family-friendly places where they patrol. “People should feel that they are our friends and that they are there to protect us,” he said. But the skating unit isn’t just out to make friends. Ahmed said its primary responsibility was counterterrorism surveillance in public areas, including parks and cricket stadiums. He said the in-line commandos had already made arrests, improved the force’s response rate at crime scenes and protected several high-profile officials, including Khan and President Arif Alvi. Aiman, who joined the Sindh Police two years ago, said she had a deep commitment to the counterterrorism wing that her in-line skating unit belongs to. As a girl, she paid close attention to the Pakistani military’s crackdown on insurgents in mountainous tribal areas, and she used to volunteer at a Karachi arms fair. “I believe that terrorists deserve to die,” she said over breakfast at her apartment. “You have to kill them. They don’t deserve to be alive.” Cities in Britain, France, the Netherlands and elsewhere have started skating police units over the years, with mixed results. Mudassir Ali, a Sindh Special Security Unit police commando who has trained officers for the skating unit, said that he modelled it on examples from abroad. Ali said those on skates typically worked in tandem with officers in patrol cars and that they had been trained to jump and climb stairs in “areas that don’t have the best roads or infrastructure.” Even though the commandos mostly help to maintain public order in places like malls and popular street food areas, he added, they are armed and ready to shoot criminals if necessary. “We can even hold onto a car at 120 kilometres per hour,” or 75 mph, he said. Not everyone is impressed. Jasim Rizvi, a resident of Karachi’s middle-class Gulshan-e-Iqbal neighbourhood, said he saw the unit as a publicity stunt. “Maybe the police had nothing to do so they decided to hop on skates,” said Rizvi, who was recently mugged outside his home. “I only see the police in action when they’re accompanying so-called VVIPs.” Putting officers on skates to improve the police force’s relationship with the community could potentially make sense in Karachi, but not if they are armed, said Zoha Waseem, a research fellow at the Institute for Global City Policing at University College London. There is little evidence from other cities that in-line skating units help police forces fight crime, she added. Also, Karachi is full of potholes. “This is why it’s hard to see this initiative as something more than police propaganda,” she said. “We don’t know how sustainable it will be, and I wonder if this budget could have better been spent elsewhere.” Ahmed said the unit had another purpose beyond community engagement and crime-fighting: empowering women. Many of its 10 female officers are from impoverished rural areas of Sindh province, he added, and the unit is a “merit-based” outfit created in part to combat entrenched sexism. “We say that there should be equality between men and women at workplaces, but this is not always possible due to cultural issues,” he said. Women walking alone in Pakistan draw stares, or worse; sexual harassment is common in workplaces and beyond; and the country has one of the highest gender pay gaps in the world. Khan, the prime minister, drew a backlash in April for saying that rape cases had risen because of how women dressed. Aiman, who grew up in Karachi, said that as she trained for the in-line skating unit, she learned strategies for projecting authority and avoiding situations in which people could try to take advantage of her because of her gender. “The way people look at men and women is different, especially female police officers and especially female officers on in-line skates,” she said. In-line skating is trendy in a few of Karachi’s middle-class neighbourhoods, but Aiman did not know what it was until a police colleague explained the activity to her last year. Her relatives were sceptical about it, she said, and she suffered minor injuries during training sessions. But after about two weeks, she was weaving through crowds at cricket stadiums and other public places, with a watchful eye on crowds and a holstered handgun on her belt. “Our training is quite good,” she said. “When we skate, we’re in control and we keep a strong grip on our weapons.” Now her friends want to take skating lessons, too, and her parents and siblings are coming around to the idea of having an in-line skating officer in the family. The other day they were surprised — and impressed — to see her climb a staircase with her skates on. “They made me do it again, just to make sure,” Aiman said.

First they lace up their skates, then they fight terrorism

Three terrorists were killed in an encounter in North Kashmir's Sopore area. The operation started on Sunday&nbsp;evening and lasted the whole night. In the morning security forces retrieved three terrorist bodies from the encounter site.

The operation has been a huge success for the forces as they managed to kill one of the most wanted terrorists in Kashmir Valley. Mudasir Pandit, commander of Lashkar-e&nbsp;-Toiba was killed in the gunfight along with two other terrorists.&nbsp;

''This operation was launched last night in Sopore. It was a joint operation and our field commanders supervised it personally. Three&nbsp;deadly terrorists were killed. They were all commander ranks and were instrumental in many attacks. Since June 2019, Mudasir Pandit was an active LeT commander. He has killed four&nbsp;civilians, nine&nbsp;security forces personnel, two&nbsp;ex-militants, three&nbsp;sarpanches, and two&nbsp;Hurriyat and separatists,'' said DG Kashmir, Dilbagh Singh.

The other two terrorists killed in the encounter were Khurshid Ahmad Mir and a foreign terrorist.

A huge cache of arms and ammunition was recovered from the encounter site.

''Khurshid Ahmad Mir was another commander, he was from Sopore only and was active since May 2020 with LeT. He has killed seven&nbsp;security forces and five&nbsp;civilians. He was involved in many attacks and killings along with Mudasir Pandit,'' said DG Kashmir, Dilbagh Singh.

Police say that after putting up wanted posters of these terrorists in different districts of Kashmir Valley, they have been getting calls and messages from locals about the presence of terrorists in these areas.&nbsp;

''Two major attacks have happened in three&nbsp;months. We installed posters in Sopore of these terrorists and put up rewards too. We kept getting information from locals and their support. I want to thank locals for supporting us in killing these militants.'' said IG Kashmir, Vijay Kumar.&nbsp;

However, the Indian army said that they are trying to break the cycle of violence in the Kashmir Valley.

''These are the people who spill the blood of Kashmiris. They want to keep the cycle of violence going on. We want to break the cycle of violence. We have to stop supporting these elements. We are pained when old parents of these youth appealed to them to return back,'' said H S Saha, Lt Gen, Kilo Force.&nbsp;

Three terrorists were killed in an encounter in North Kashmir's Sopore area. The operation started on Sunday evening and lasted the whole night. In the morning security forces retrieved three terrorist bodies from the encounter site.

Three terrorists were killed in an encounter in North Kashmir's Sopore area. The operation started on Sunday evening and lasted the whole night. In the morning security forces retrieved three terrorist bodies from the encounter site. The operation has been a huge success for the forces as they managed to kill one of the most wanted terrorists in Kashmir Valley. Mudasir Pandit, commander of Lashkar-e -Toiba was killed in the gunfight along with two other terrorists. ''This operation was launched last night in Sopore. It was a joint operation and our field commanders supervised it personally. Three deadly terrorists were killed. They were all commander ranks and were instrumental in many attacks. Since June 2019, Mudasir Pandit was an active LeT commander. He has killed four civilians, nine security forces personnel, two ex-militants, three sarpanches, and two Hurriyat and separatists,'' said DG Kashmir, Dilbagh Singh. The other two terrorists killed in the encounter were Khurshid Ahmad Mir and a foreign terrorist. A huge cache of arms and ammunition was recovered from the encounter site. ''Khurshid Ahmad Mir was another commander, he was from Sopore only and was active since May 2020 with LeT. He has killed seven security forces and five civilians. He was involved in many attacks and killings along with Mudasir Pandit,'' said DG Kashmir, Dilbagh Singh. Police say that after putting up wanted posters of these terrorists in different districts of Kashmir Valley, they have been getting calls and messages from locals about the presence of terrorists in these areas. ''Two major attacks have happened in three months. We installed posters in Sopore of these terrorists and put up rewards too. We kept getting information from locals and their support. I want to thank locals for supporting us in killing these militants.'' said IG Kashmir, Vijay Kumar. However, the Indian army said that they are trying to break the cycle of violence in the Kashmir Valley. ''These are the people who spill the blood of Kashmiris. They want to keep the cycle of violence going on. We want to break the cycle of violence. We have to stop supporting these elements. We are pained when old parents of these youth appealed to them to return back,'' said H S Saha, Lt Gen, Kilo Force.

Top LeT commander killed along with two other terrorists in Kashmir

The Taliban said on Sunday that they remained committed to peace talks but also insisted that a 'genuine Islamic system' in Afghanistan was the only way to end war and ensure rights including those of women.&nbsp;

There is a surge of violence across Afghanistan since May when US military began its final withdrawal. The talks between militants and Afghan government have been deadlocked for months. There are also fears that if Taliban returns to power they will reimpose their harsh rule based on extreme interpretation of Islam. Under this, girls were banned from school and women accused of crimes like adultery were stoned to death in stadiums.

Taliban has been claiming that it is committed to peace even when violence is on the rise in the country.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghan-president-replaces-defence-minister-as-taliban-gains-ground-392617">Afghan president replaces defence minister as Taliban gains ground</a>

"Our very participation in the negotiations... indicates openly that we believe in resolving issues through (mutual) understanding," said Taliban co-founder and deputy leader Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar on Sunday&nbsp;

He said that only way to end conflict in Afghanistan was the establishment of Islamic system after departure of all foreign forces.

"A genuine Islamic system is the best mean for solution of all issues of the Afghans," Baradar said.

His statement acknowledged the fears in Afghanistan and abroad about the kind of system that would emerge -- and its impact on women -- saying that fell "within the ambit of the intra-Afghan negotiations".

Baradar also assured that the rights of all Afghans including women would be accommodated in that system, according to "the glorious religion of Islam" and Afghan traditions.

However, there are strong fears that Taliban's interpretation of rights will be antagonistic to changes that have taken place since 2001.

In May, a US intelligence report said the gains made over the past two decades on women's rights would be rolled back if the militants returned to power.

As the US military presses ahead to meet the September 11 deadline to complete the troop withdrawal, the Taliban have fought daily battles with government forces and claim to have captured 40 districts.

The growing fear and uncertainty about the future have forced many Afghans to try and leave, including thousands of men and women who fear reprisals because they worked with foreign forces.

Baradar called on Afghan youths to not leave the country, and also stressed that the Taliban would ensure that minorities, humanitarian organisations and diplomats had nothing to fear.

The recent losses faced by government troops have forced President Ashraf Ghani to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghan-president-replaces-defence-minister-as-taliban-gains-ground-392617">change his defence and interior ministers</a>.

On Saturday, he announced the changes and called on the Taliban to make a choice between peace and enmity with the government.

"If they choose enmity then the people will respond to them decisively," he said late on Saturday in a statement issued by the palace.

(With inputs&nbsp;from agencies)

The Taliban said on Sunday that they remained committed to peace talks but also insisted that a 'genuine Islamic system' in Afghanistan was the only way to end war and ensure rights including those of women.

The Taliban said on Sunday that they remained committed to peace talks but also insisted that a 'genuine Islamic system' in Afghanistan was the only way to end war and ensure rights including those of women. There is a surge of violence across Afghanistan since May when US military began its final withdrawal. The talks between militants and Afghan government have been deadlocked for months. There are also fears that if Taliban returns to power they will reimpose their harsh rule based on extreme interpretation of Islam. Under this, girls were banned from school and women accused of crimes like adultery were stoned to death in stadiums. Taliban has been claiming that it is committed to peace even when violence is on the rise in the country. Also Read | Afghan president replaces defence minister as Taliban gains ground "Our very participation in the negotiations... indicates openly that we believe in resolving issues through (mutual) understanding," said Taliban co-founder and deputy leader Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar on Sunday He said that only way to end conflict in Afghanistan was the establishment of Islamic system after departure of all foreign forces. "A genuine Islamic system is the best mean for solution of all issues of the Afghans," Baradar said. His statement acknowledged the fears in Afghanistan and abroad about the kind of system that would emerge -- and its impact on women -- saying that fell "within the ambit of the intra-Afghan negotiations". Baradar also assured that the rights of all Afghans including women would be accommodated in that system, according to "the glorious religion of Islam" and Afghan traditions. However, there are strong fears that Taliban's interpretation of rights will be antagonistic to changes that have taken place since 2001. In May, a US intelligence report said the gains made over the past two decades on women's rights would be rolled back if the militants returned to power. As the US military presses ahead to meet the September 11 deadline to complete the troop withdrawal, the Taliban have fought daily battles with government forces and claim to have captured 40 districts. The growing fear and uncertainty about the future have forced many Afghans to try and leave, including thousands of men and women who fear reprisals because they worked with foreign forces. Baradar called on Afghan youths to not leave the country, and also stressed that the Taliban would ensure that minorities, humanitarian organisations and diplomats had nothing to fear. The recent losses faced by government troops have forced President Ashraf Ghani to change his defence and interior ministers. On Saturday, he announced the changes and called on the Taliban to make a choice between peace and enmity with the government. "If they choose enmity then the people will respond to them decisively," he said late on Saturday in a statement issued by the palace. (With inputs from agencies)

'Islamic system' only way to Afghan peace: Taliban

Pakistan's foreign minister has given the Taliban a clean chit in the ongoing violence in Afghanistan. He has accused India of having more influence 'than it ought to' in the region. Why is Shah Mahmood Qureshi dictating India's Afghan policy? Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: Pakistan's foreign minister accuses India of terrorism

Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani on Saturday replaced two top ministers in charge of the country's faltering security situation. This measure came as the Taliban pressed on to capture new territory. The Taliban now claim to have seized more than 40 districts in recent weeks across countryside.

The presidency announced in a statement that General Bismillah Khan Mohammadi, who fought under the late anti-Taliban commander Ahmad Shah Massoud during a 1990s civil war, has been appointed the new defence minister.

He has previously held defence and interior ministry portfolios. Mohammadi has also served as chief of army staff after fall of Taliban following US-led invasion in 2001.

President Ghani also appointed General Abdul Sattar Mirzakwal as interior minister, the presidency said. Mirzakwal has previously held several regional posts.

Mohammadi replaces Asadullah Khalid who has repeatedly flown out of the country for treatment to wounds suffered after a suicide bomber attacked him in 2012.

The latest cabinet changes need to be approved by the parliament.

US President Joe Biden has set September 11 &nbsp;-- the 20th anniversary of the attacks in the United States that led to the invasion of Afghanistan -- as the deadline to withdraw American soldiers.

Since the Pentagon commenced the final withdrawal on May 1, the Taliban have unleashed a wave of attacks targeting government forces.&nbsp;

The insurgents claim to have seized more than 40 districts since early May, forcing military leaders to strategically retreat from a number of rural districts.

The Taliban are now present in almost every province and are encircling several major cities - a strategy the militants employed in the mid-1990s when they overran most of Afghanistan until they were ousted by invading US-led forces.

On Saturday, the defence ministry confirmed that government troops had retreated from several districts but said they aimed to take them back.

"There is a new, robust and effective plan to retake areas from which we have pulled back our forces," ministry spokesman Rohullah Ahmadzai said, dismissing claims that hundreds of soldiers had surrendered to the Taliban.

(With inputs from agencies)

Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani on Saturday replaced two top ministers in charge of the country's faltering security situation. This measure came as the Taliban pressed on to capture new territory.

Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani on Saturday replaced two top ministers in charge of the country's faltering security situation. This measure came as the Taliban pressed on to capture new territory. The Taliban now claim to have seized more than 40 districts in recent weeks across countryside. The presidency announced in a statement that General Bismillah Khan Mohammadi, who fought under the late anti-Taliban commander Ahmad Shah Massoud during a 1990s civil war, has been appointed the new defence minister. He has previously held defence and interior ministry portfolios. Mohammadi has also served as chief of army staff after fall of Taliban following US-led invasion in 2001. President Ghani also appointed General Abdul Sattar Mirzakwal as interior minister, the presidency said. Mirzakwal has previously held several regional posts. Mohammadi replaces Asadullah Khalid who has repeatedly flown out of the country for treatment to wounds suffered after a suicide bomber attacked him in 2012. The latest cabinet changes need to be approved by the parliament. US President Joe Biden has set September 11 -- the 20th anniversary of the attacks in the United States that led to the invasion of Afghanistan -- as the deadline to withdraw American soldiers. Since the Pentagon commenced the final withdrawal on May 1, the Taliban have unleashed a wave of attacks targeting government forces. The insurgents claim to have seized more than 40 districts since early May, forcing military leaders to strategically retreat from a number of rural districts. The Taliban are now present in almost every province and are encircling several major cities - a strategy the militants employed in the mid-1990s when they overran most of Afghanistan until they were ousted by invading US-led forces. On Saturday, the defence ministry confirmed that government troops had retreated from several districts but said they aimed to take them back. "There is a new, robust and effective plan to retake areas from which we have pulled back our forces," ministry spokesman Rohullah Ahmadzai said, dismissing claims that hundreds of soldiers had surrendered to the Taliban. (With inputs from agencies)

Afghan president replaces defence minister as Taliban gains ground

Jammu and Kashmir Police has busted a narco terror module in north Kashmir's Baramulla District. Ten Over Ground Workers (OGW) have been arrested. The police have recovered 5.5 kg of heroin, 10 grenades, 4 pistols, 4 magazines, 20 rounds and some vehicles.

The Police also recovered more than two million rupees (2150,000) from the OGWs

"We had received information and we had laid specific nakas. We were successful in busting a big narco terror module which was operating from different places in union territory (UT) as well as some part of it even outside UT. We have arrested 10 people, We made recoveries of 5.5Kgs of Heroin packed in 11 packets. We also recovered 10 grenades, 4 pistols and 4 rounds," said Rayees Mohammad Bhat, Senior Superintendent of Police, Baramulla.&nbsp;

<img alt="Jammu and Kashmir" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b8138cae-3836-4afd-92eb-b10ad6192d21" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Image%20%284%29.jpeg" />

The Narco Terror is prevalent in North Kashmir and Police have time and again busted these groups. The Police have also seized some vehicles from the OGW's in north Kashmir which were used to transfer these arms and ammunition and narcotics to various parts of the UT.

The police say that the network of this module not only works in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir but outside too.&nbsp;

"We have seized vehicles, a truck. a Verna car and a scooty. We have made some arrests in Jammu also. This was a joint operation," said Rayees Ahmad Bhat, SSP, Baramulla.&nbsp;

Jammu and Kashmir Police has busted a narco terror module in north Kashmir's Baramulla District. Ten Over Ground Workers (OGW) have been arrested. The police have recovered 5.

Jammu and Kashmir Police has busted a narco terror module in north Kashmir's Baramulla District. Ten Over Ground Workers (OGW) have been arrested. The police have recovered 5.5 kg of heroin, 10 grenades, 4 pistols, 4 magazines, 20 rounds and some vehicles. The Police also recovered more than two million rupees (2150,000) from the OGWs "We had received information and we had laid specific nakas. We were successful in busting a big narco terror module which was operating from different places in union territory (UT) as well as some part of it even outside UT. We have arrested 10 people, We made recoveries of 5.5Kgs of Heroin packed in 11 packets. We also recovered 10 grenades, 4 pistols and 4 rounds," said Rayees Mohammad Bhat, Senior Superintendent of Police, Baramulla. The Narco Terror is prevalent in North Kashmir and Police have time and again busted these groups. The Police have also seized some vehicles from the OGW's in north Kashmir which were used to transfer these arms and ammunition and narcotics to various parts of the UT. The police say that the network of this module not only works in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir but outside too. "We have seized vehicles, a truck. a Verna car and a scooty. We have made some arrests in Jammu also. This was a joint operation," said Rayees Ahmad Bhat, SSP, Baramulla.

Jammu and Kashmir: Narco terror group busted, heroin and arms recovered

Two hundred and fifty-eight Taliban terrorists were killed and 156 were wounded in last 24 hours during military operations conducted by Afghan National Security Forces (ANSF) across the country. Afghan Defense Ministry said on Twitter that the terrorists were killed in several provinces including. Nangarhar, Laghman, Helmand and Faryab.

"258 Taliban terrorists were killed and 156 were wounded as a result of #ANDSF operations in Nangarhar, Laghman, Paktia, Zabul, Herat, Farah, Ghor, Faryab, Balkh, Jowzjan, Helmand, Takhar and Baghlan provinces during the last 24 hours. Also, 76 IEDs were discovered and defused by ANA," the ministry said.

This has come amid recent surge in violence due to Taliban's offensive.

On Thursday, 19 Taliban terrorists were killed and 8 others were wounded in clearing operations conducted in Shah Joy and Shinkai districts of Zabul province.&nbsp;

In a separate operation, 19 Taliban terrorists including a prominent commander named "Abdul Rahman" were killed in operations conducted in Helmand province.As US and North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) foreign forces continue to scale down their presence in Afghanistan, the Taliban have been gaining ground in some parts of the country.

Back in April, US President Joe Biden announced plans for US and allied forces to completely depart the war-torn country till September 11 this year.

As the deadline draws near, top Pentagon officials on Thursday said that terrorist groups like al-Qaeda could pose a threat from Afghanistan to the United States and American allies in two years after the full withdrawal of international troops from the country."It would take possibly two years for them to develop that capability," US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin had said during a congressional hearing yesterday.

(With inputs from agencies)

Two hundred and fifty-eight Taliban terrorists were killed and 156 were wounded in last 24 hours during military operations conducted by Afghan National Security Forces (ANSF) across the country.

Two hundred and fifty-eight Taliban terrorists were killed and 156 were wounded in last 24 hours during military operations conducted by Afghan National Security Forces (ANSF) across the country. Afghan Defense Ministry said on Twitter that the terrorists were killed in several provinces including. Nangarhar, Laghman, Helmand and Faryab. "258 Taliban terrorists were killed and 156 were wounded as a result of #ANDSF operations in Nangarhar, Laghman, Paktia, Zabul, Herat, Farah, Ghor, Faryab, Balkh, Jowzjan, Helmand, Takhar and Baghlan provinces during the last 24 hours. Also, 76 IEDs were discovered and defused by ANA," the ministry said. This has come amid recent surge in violence due to Taliban's offensive. On Thursday, 19 Taliban terrorists were killed and 8 others were wounded in clearing operations conducted in Shah Joy and Shinkai districts of Zabul province. In a separate operation, 19 Taliban terrorists including a prominent commander named "Abdul Rahman" were killed in operations conducted in Helmand province.As US and North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) foreign forces continue to scale down their presence in Afghanistan, the Taliban have been gaining ground in some parts of the country. Back in April, US President Joe Biden announced plans for US and allied forces to completely depart the war-torn country till September 11 this year. As the deadline draws near, top Pentagon officials on Thursday said that terrorist groups like al-Qaeda could pose a threat from Afghanistan to the United States and American allies in two years after the full withdrawal of international troops from the country."It would take possibly two years for them to develop that capability," US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin had said during a congressional hearing yesterday. (With inputs from agencies)

Afghan security forces eliminate 258 Taliban terrorists in last 24 hrs

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan said on Friday that the country has been pushing for political settlement before foreign troops leave&nbsp;this year in order to reduce the risk of civil war.

The US&nbsp;has said that it will withdraw all its troops from Afghanistan on September 11 this year. More than 20 allied countries plan to follow suit.

"There is a lot of fear right now in Pakistan and I assure you that we are trying our level best that there is some sort of political settlement before the Americans leave," Khan told Reuters on Friday at his official residence in Islamabad.

Since the announcement of troop withdrawal, violence in Afghanistan has risen sharply. Taliban is resisiting pressure from Washington and its allies to agree to a political understanding leading to a peace deal.

"Since the moment the Americans gave a date, of when they were going to leave Afghanistan ... the Taliban feel they have won the war," Khan said, adding it was not going to be easy to get concessions from the Taliban after the U.S. decision.

Khan said Pakistan would suffer the most, after Afghanistan itself, if there was civil war and a refugee crisis.

"And then there would be pressure on us to jump in and become a part of it," Khan said.

He said his government had changed Pakistan's decades-long policy of pushing for "strategic depth" in Afghanistan to ensure that there was a friendly government there.

"Any Afghan government chosen by the people is who Pakistan should deal with," Khan said, adding that Pakistan "should not try to do any manipulation in Afghanistan".

Pakistan has long been accused of harbouring leaders and fighters of the Taliban, whom Islamabad helped to power in 1996, even as the insurgent group fought U.S.-led foreign troops.

(With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan said on Friday that the country has been pushing for political settlement before foreign troops leave this year in order to reduce the risk of civil war.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan said on Friday that the country has been pushing for political settlement before foreign troops leave this year in order to reduce the risk of civil war. The US has said that it will withdraw all its troops from Afghanistan on September 11 this year. More than 20 allied countries plan to follow suit. "There is a lot of fear right now in Pakistan and I assure you that we are trying our level best that there is some sort of political settlement before the Americans leave," Khan told Reuters on Friday at his official residence in Islamabad. Since the announcement of troop withdrawal, violence in Afghanistan has risen sharply. Taliban is resisiting pressure from Washington and its allies to agree to a political understanding leading to a peace deal. "Since the moment the Americans gave a date, of when they were going to leave Afghanistan ... the Taliban feel they have won the war," Khan said, adding it was not going to be easy to get concessions from the Taliban after the U.S. decision. Khan said Pakistan would suffer the most, after Afghanistan itself, if there was civil war and a refugee crisis. "And then there would be pressure on us to jump in and become a part of it," Khan said. He said his government had changed Pakistan's decades-long policy of pushing for "strategic depth" in Afghanistan to ensure that there was a friendly government there. "Any Afghan government chosen by the people is who Pakistan should deal with," Khan said, adding that Pakistan "should not try to do any manipulation in Afghanistan". Pakistan has long been accused of harbouring leaders and fighters of the Taliban, whom Islamabad helped to power in 1996, even as the insurgent group fought U.S.-led foreign troops. (With inputs from agencies)

'Lot of fear' in Pakistan, PM Imran Khan on troop pullout in Afghanistan

At least six Afghan civilians were killed and several more were wounded when a mortar shell hit a house during a wedding ceremony in northern Kapisa province, security officials said on Sunday. 
 
The explosion on Saturday evening was in the Tagab district, which has seen fighting between the Afghan government forces and the Taliban insurgents. 
 
Shayeq Shoresh, a spokesman for the provincial police, blamed the Taliban for firing the mortar and added that at least six civilians, including women and children, were killed and four more wounded. 
 
But a senior security official in Kabul put the death toll at at least 10 and the number of wounded at 18. 
 
A Taliban spokesman dismissed the allegation and said the mortar was fired by Afghan security forces. 
 
Afghan civilians often bear the brunt of the attacks as they are&nbsp;caught in the crossfire. 
 
Violence has sharply increased across the country since Washington announced plans last month to pull out all US&nbsp;troops out of Afghanistan by September&nbsp;11. 
 
Nearly 1,800 Afghan civilians were killed or wounded in the first three months of 2021 during fighting between government forces and Taliban insurgents despite efforts to find peace, the United Nations said last month. 
 
According to the Afghanistan Independent Human Rights Commission’s annual report last year, there were 8,500 civilian casualties in 2020, including 2,958 deaths.

(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp;

At least six Afghan civilians were killed and several more were wounded when a mortar shell hit a house during a wedding ceremony in northern Kapisa province, security officials said on Sunday.

At least six Afghan civilians were killed and several more were wounded when a mortar shell hit a house during a wedding ceremony in northern Kapisa province, security officials said on Sunday. The explosion on Saturday evening was in the Tagab district, which has seen fighting between the Afghan government forces and the Taliban insurgents. Shayeq Shoresh, a spokesman for the provincial police, blamed the Taliban for firing the mortar and added that at least six civilians, including women and children, were killed and four more wounded. But a senior security official in Kabul put the death toll at at least 10 and the number of wounded at 18. A Taliban spokesman dismissed the allegation and said the mortar was fired by Afghan security forces. Afghan civilians often bear the brunt of the attacks as they are caught in the crossfire. Violence has sharply increased across the country since Washington announced plans last month to pull out all US troops out of Afghanistan by September 11. Nearly 1,800 Afghan civilians were killed or wounded in the first three months of 2021 during fighting between government forces and Taliban insurgents despite efforts to find peace, the United Nations said last month. According to the Afghanistan Independent Human Rights Commission’s annual report last year, there were 8,500 civilian casualties in 2020, including 2,958 deaths. (With inputs from agencies)

Mortar shell hits Afghan wedding, kills at least six

Dutch police on Saturday ruled out terrorism angle in the spate of stabbing they were investigating. The stabbings caused one death and four injuries. A 29-year-old man was arrested in Amsterdam after the stabbing attack that took place late on Friday. The attack took place in the capital's museum quarter. There are many restaurants and bars in this area.

"The police is conducting an extensive investigation into the various incidents and the circumstances," Amsterdam police said in a statement.

"The investigation team led by the Public Prosecution Service is keeping all options open, but at the moment has no direct indications that there is a terrorist motive."

The Netherlands' terror threat level remained unchanged, as per broadcaster RTL Nieuws.

Police said they were initially called to a report of one stabbing, but "on the spot it became clear that four other stabbing incidents had taken place in the immediate vicinity, a total of five victims."

"One of the victims died on the spot, the four other victims were taken to hospital," police said.

Emergency services rushed to the scene and two medical helicopters landed in a park next to the famed Van Gogh museum and Rijksmuseum.

At the time of the stabbings, the restaurants in the area were closed due to coronavirus restrictions.

The Netherlands has suffered a number of terror attacks in past years including the stabbing of two US tourists at Amsterdam railway station in 2018 by an Afghan man who was later jailed.

But there has also been a recent rash of crime in the capital, including an armed robbery on a cash van in Amsterdam earlier this week in which a suspect was killed after a high-speed chase with police.

(With inputs from agencies)

Dutch police on Saturday ruled out terrorism angle in the spate of stabbing they were investigating. The stabbings caused one death and four injuries. A 29-year-old man was arrested in Amsterdam after the stabbing attack that took place late on Friday.

Dutch police on Saturday ruled out terrorism angle in the spate of stabbing they were investigating. The stabbings caused one death and four injuries. A 29-year-old man was arrested in Amsterdam after the stabbing attack that took place late on Friday. The attack took place in the capital's museum quarter. There are many restaurants and bars in this area. "The police is conducting an extensive investigation into the various incidents and the circumstances," Amsterdam police said in a statement. "The investigation team led by the Public Prosecution Service is keeping all options open, but at the moment has no direct indications that there is a terrorist motive." The Netherlands' terror threat level remained unchanged, as per broadcaster RTL Nieuws. Police said they were initially called to a report of one stabbing, but "on the spot it became clear that four other stabbing incidents had taken place in the immediate vicinity, a total of five victims." "One of the victims died on the spot, the four other victims were taken to hospital," police said. Emergency services rushed to the scene and two medical helicopters landed in a park next to the famed Van Gogh museum and Rijksmuseum. At the time of the stabbings, the restaurants in the area were closed due to coronavirus restrictions. The Netherlands has suffered a number of terror attacks in past years including the stabbing of two US tourists at Amsterdam railway station in 2018 by an Afghan man who was later jailed. But there has also been a recent rash of crime in the capital, including an armed robbery on a cash van in Amsterdam earlier this week in which a suspect was killed after a high-speed chase with police. (With inputs from agencies)

Amsterdam stabbings: No terror link seen, say police

The jihadist&nbsp;Islamic&nbsp;State&nbsp;claimed it carried out this week's attack on a mosque on the outskirts of the Afghan capital that left 12 worshippers dead, SITE Intelligence Group reported.

The explosion happened inside a mosque in Shakar Darah district of Kabul province during Friday prayers and shattered the relative calm of a three-day ceasefire agreed between the Taliban and the Afghan government.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/blast-in-kabul-mosque-kills-12-worshippers-shattering-eid-ceasefire-calm-385004">Blast in Kabul mosque kills 12 worshippers, shattering Eid ceasefire calm</a>

IS said its fighters had placed an explosive device inside the mosque and detonated it after worshippers arrived to offer prayers on the second day of the Eid al-Fitr holidays, the US monitor of jihadist groups said late Saturday.

The bombing killed the imam of the mosque, who was leading the prayers.

Friday was also the second day of a three-day ceasefire agreed by the Taliban and the government to mark Eid al-Fitr.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-celebrates-eid-amid-ceasefire-between-taliban-and-government-384764">Afghanistan celebrates Eid amid ceasefire between Taliban and government</a>

The temporary truce was announced after soaring violence since May 01, when the US military began formally withdrawing its last remaining troops from the country.

A series of blasts outside a girls' school in Kabul last week killed more than 50 people and wounded scores, most of them female students.

No group has so far claimed the attack, one of the deadliest in recent years.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bombings-kill-11-afghans-on-first-day-of-ceasefire-384816">Bombings kill 11 Afghans on first day of ceasefire</a>

In recent weeks, fighting between the Taliban and government forces had surged across several provinces before the ceasefire was agreed, including in the southern provinces of Kandahar and Helmand.

The jihadist Islamic State claimed it carried out this week's attack on a mosque on the outskirts of the Afghan capital that left 12 worshippers dead, SITE Intelligence Group reported.

The jihadist Islamic State claimed it carried out this week's attack on a mosque on the outskirts of the Afghan capital that left 12 worshippers dead, SITE Intelligence Group reported. The explosion happened inside a mosque in Shakar Darah district of Kabul province during Friday prayers and shattered the relative calm of a three-day ceasefire agreed between the Taliban and the Afghan government. Also read | Blast in Kabul mosque kills 12 worshippers, shattering Eid ceasefire calm IS said its fighters had placed an explosive device inside the mosque and detonated it after worshippers arrived to offer prayers on the second day of the Eid al-Fitr holidays, the US monitor of jihadist groups said late Saturday. The bombing killed the imam of the mosque, who was leading the prayers. Friday was also the second day of a three-day ceasefire agreed by the Taliban and the government to mark Eid al-Fitr. Also read | Afghanistan celebrates Eid amid ceasefire between Taliban and government The temporary truce was announced after soaring violence since May 01, when the US military began formally withdrawing its last remaining troops from the country. A series of blasts outside a girls' school in Kabul last week killed more than 50 people and wounded scores, most of them female students. No group has so far claimed the attack, one of the deadliest in recent years. Also Read | Bombings kill 11 Afghans on first day of ceasefire In recent weeks, fighting between the Taliban and government forces had surged across several provinces before the ceasefire was agreed, including in the southern provinces of Kandahar and Helmand.

IS claims Afghan mosque blast that killed 12 worshippers: SITE

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi has said that hasty US withdrawal from Afghanistan deals a serious blow to the peace process and regional stability. He was speaking with his Pakistani counterpart Shah Mahmood Qureshi.

"Wang Yi noted that the US`s hasty withdrawal of troops from Afghanistan already dealt a serious blow to the peace process in Afghanistan, as well as negatively affected the regional stability," Wang Yi was quoted as saying in the statement by the country`s foreign ministry.

"Under the circumstances, China expects the UN to play its due role, and the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) needs to closely monitor the situation. Afghanistan`s neighbour countries must strengthen relations, join efforts and take coordinated action," he said during the phone conversation on Saturday ahead of the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between China and Pakistan.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-taliban-resumes-shooting-as-ceasefire-ends-385400">Afghanistan: Taliban resumes shooting as ceasefire ends</a>

Taliban has tried to take over some strategic areas in Afghanistan ever since the announcement of the final drawdown of US troops from Afghanistan

Earlier this week, Wang Yi elaborated on China`s position on the Afghan situation, when holding talks with foreign ministers of Central Asia countries in Xi`an City, Shaanxi Province.

The minister had said that the current evolution of the Afghan situation has drawn great attention from the international community.The Chinese side holds the view that foreign troops should withdraw from Afghanistan in an orderly and responsible manner to prevent any hasty action from adversely affecting and seriously interfering with the peace and reconciliation process in Afghanistan, he added.

US President Joe Biden announced last month the decision to withdraw troops by September 11. The Taliban rejected President Joe Biden`s announcement that troops would stay on past the deadline but withdraw over the next four and a half months.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi has said that hasty US withdrawal from Afghanistan deals a serious blow to the peace process and regional stability. He was speaking with his Pakistani counterpart Shah Mahmood Qureshi.

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi has said that hasty US withdrawal from Afghanistan deals a serious blow to the peace process and regional stability. He was speaking with his Pakistani counterpart Shah Mahmood Qureshi. "Wang Yi noted that the US`s hasty withdrawal of troops from Afghanistan already dealt a serious blow to the peace process in Afghanistan, as well as negatively affected the regional stability," Wang Yi was quoted as saying in the statement by the country`s foreign ministry. "Under the circumstances, China expects the UN to play its due role, and the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) needs to closely monitor the situation. Afghanistan`s neighbour countries must strengthen relations, join efforts and take coordinated action," he said during the phone conversation on Saturday ahead of the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between China and Pakistan. Also Read | Afghanistan: Taliban resumes shooting as ceasefire ends Taliban has tried to take over some strategic areas in Afghanistan ever since the announcement of the final drawdown of US troops from Afghanistan Earlier this week, Wang Yi elaborated on China`s position on the Afghan situation, when holding talks with foreign ministers of Central Asia countries in Xi`an City, Shaanxi Province. The minister had said that the current evolution of the Afghan situation has drawn great attention from the international community.The Chinese side holds the view that foreign troops should withdraw from Afghanistan in an orderly and responsible manner to prevent any hasty action from adversely affecting and seriously interfering with the peace and reconciliation process in Afghanistan, he added. US President Joe Biden announced last month the decision to withdraw troops by September 11. The Taliban rejected President Joe Biden`s announcement that troops would stay on past the deadline but withdraw over the next four and a half months. (With inputs from agencies)

Hasty US withdrawal a blow to Afghan peace process, says China

A blast at a mosque during Friday prayer rocked the city of Kabul, killing at least&nbsp;12 people. The explosion took place in the mosque located on the outskirts of the Afghan capital amid an Eid ceasefire declared by the Taliban and the Afghan government.

"During Friday congregation, an explosion happened inside a mosque in Shakar Darah district of Kabul (province)," said Ferdaws Framurz, the spokesman for Kabul police.&nbsp;

The blast is the first major incident since a temporary truce between the Taliban and government troops came into force on Thursday.

The warring sides agreed on the truce to mark the Muslim holiday of Eid al-Fitr, only the fourth such halt in fighting in the nearly two-decades-old conflict.

The timing of the blast also assumes importance as it took place days after&nbsp;US troops left a major base in Kandahar, once a Taliban stronghold.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bombings-kill-11-afghans-on-first-day-of-ceasefire-384816">Bombings kill 11 Afghans on first day of ceasefire</a>

The Kandahar Airfield was turned over to the Afghan National Defence Security Forces earlier this week, the officials said, in a move that signals the urgency of the US effort to fully withdraw from the country by September 11.

"They have not officially handed over the base to us but I can confirm they left the base on Wednesday," said Khoja Yaya Alawi, a spokesman for the Afghan army in Kandahar.&nbsp;

This is the final phase of ending America's “forever war” in Afghanistan after 20 years formally began on May 1.

(With inputs from agencies)

A blast at a mosque during Friday prayer rocked the city of Kabul, killing at least 12 people. The explosion took place in the mosque located on the outskirts of the Afghan capital amid an Eid ceasefire declared by the Taliban and the Afghan government.

A blast at a mosque during Friday prayer rocked the city of Kabul, killing at least 12 people. The explosion took place in the mosque located on the outskirts of the Afghan capital amid an Eid ceasefire declared by the Taliban and the Afghan government. "During Friday congregation, an explosion happened inside a mosque in Shakar Darah district of Kabul (province)," said Ferdaws Framurz, the spokesman for Kabul police. The blast is the first major incident since a temporary truce between the Taliban and government troops came into force on Thursday. The warring sides agreed on the truce to mark the Muslim holiday of Eid al-Fitr, only the fourth such halt in fighting in the nearly two-decades-old conflict. The timing of the blast also assumes importance as it took place days after US troops left a major base in Kandahar, once a Taliban stronghold. Also Read | Bombings kill 11 Afghans on first day of ceasefire The Kandahar Airfield was turned over to the Afghan National Defence Security Forces earlier this week, the officials said, in a move that signals the urgency of the US effort to fully withdraw from the country by September 11. "They have not officially handed over the base to us but I can confirm they left the base on Wednesday," said Khoja Yaya Alawi, a spokesman for the Afghan army in Kandahar. This is the final phase of ending America's “forever war” in Afghanistan after 20 years formally began on May 1. (With inputs from agencies)

Blast in Kabul mosque kills 12 worshippers, shattering Eid ceasefire calm

Three&nbsp;members of a neo-Nazi group arrested in eastern&nbsp;France&nbsp;on suspicion of planning an attack on a masonic lodge have been charged, a judicial source said Saturday.

The suspects, two men aged 29 and 56 and a 53-year-old woman, were indicted on Friday evening by a Paris anti-terrorist judge on suspicion of forming a "terrorist criminal association", the source added.

Three&nbsp;others also arrested on Tuesday -- two men and a woman -- have since been released.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="German FA president faces calls to resign after Nazi remark">German FA president faces calls to resign after Nazi remark</a>

Belonging to a group calling itself "Honour and Nation", the suspects are believed to have planned a violent attack, although they were not on the verge of carrying it out, a source familiar with the investigation said.

They were arrested based on their communications, research into explosives and scouting of the potential target.

The probe is just the latest into&nbsp;France's far-right scene.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="Open letter by French soldiers warning of 'civil war' angers Macron government">Open letter by French soldiers warning of 'civil war' angers Macron government</a>

Last month anti-terror prosecutors requested a trial for nine members of a group calling itself OAS that was dismantled in 2017, suspected of targeting senior politicians or French Muslims.

Another organisation suspected of planning attacks on Muslims, AFO, was taken down in 2018, the same year as still another group believed to have been preparing an attempt on President Emmanuel Macron's life.

Further anti-terrorist probes relate to a neo-Nazi group suspected of targeting Jewish and Muslim places of worship and to a white supremacist who admired the perpetrator of the 2019 attack on mosques in New Zealand city Christchurch.

Three members of a neo-Nazi group arrested in eastern France on suspicion of planning an attack on a masonic lodge have been charged, a judicial source said Saturday.

Three members of a neo-Nazi group arrested in eastern France on suspicion of planning an attack on a masonic lodge have been charged, a judicial source said Saturday. The suspects, two men aged 29 and 56 and a 53-year-old woman, were indicted on Friday evening by a Paris anti-terrorist judge on suspicion of forming a "terrorist criminal association", the source added. Three others also arrested on Tuesday -- two men and a woman -- have since been released. Also read | German FA president faces calls to resign after Nazi remark Belonging to a group calling itself "Honour and Nation", the suspects are believed to have planned a violent attack, although they were not on the verge of carrying it out, a source familiar with the investigation said. They were arrested based on their communications, research into explosives and scouting of the potential target. The probe is just the latest into France's far-right scene. Also read | Open letter by French soldiers warning of 'civil war' angers Macron government Last month anti-terror prosecutors requested a trial for nine members of a group calling itself OAS that was dismantled in 2017, suspected of targeting senior politicians or French Muslims. Another organisation suspected of planning attacks on Muslims, AFO, was taken down in 2018, the same year as still another group believed to have been preparing an attempt on President Emmanuel Macron's life. Further anti-terrorist probes relate to a neo-Nazi group suspected of targeting Jewish and Muslim places of worship and to a white supremacist who admired the perpetrator of the 2019 attack on mosques in New Zealand city Christchurch.

France charges three over neo-Nazi attack plot

Last week, an open letter warning that France could face a civil war was published. The letter, which was signed by 1,000 military officers, both serving and retired, also threatened a military coup.

The group of retired and serving officers labels 'Political Islam' as a serious threat. According to them, France's President Emmanuel Macron’s failure to crack down on Islamists may lead to the disintegration of the nation. The signatories also hint at the possibility of a military coup, to take back the control.

These opinions mentioned in this open letter were published by a far-right magazine this month. The signatories of the aforementioned letter include 20 retired generals and has been&nbsp;released on the 60th anniversary of the 1961 failed coup attempt, Algiers putsch.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-did-serving-military-officers-threaten-a-coup-in-france-381797">Watch |</a>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-did-serving-military-officers-threaten-a-coup-in-france-381797/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

In 1961, generals of the French army had launched a coup against the then-president Charles de Gaulle. The aim behind this coup was to stop the independence of Algeria.

The recently published open letter has met with outrage in the French government. The crackdown following this outrage, with reports of military sanctions on 18 soldiers. According to the French armed forces chief of staff, each of them will be presented before a senior military council and might be either forced into immediate retirement or face de-listing. Other signatories can also face formal action.

The French defence ministry says that by appealing to their peers to take up arms against the country, these servicemen have broken military rules.

A recently conducted poll found that 58 per cent of the French people agree with the sentiments of the letter. French opposition leader Marine Le Pen, who plans to contest against Macron in the next elections, has added more fuel to the fire. She has called on the signatories of this open letter to support her bid for the presidency in 2022.

This clamour from the right wing comes at a time when the French government is pushing for an anti-corruption bill. After several terror attacks in the last seven months, President Macron wants to tighten the surveillance powers of security agencies, planning to use algorithms to detect activity on jihadist and extremist websites.

"One must know that when someone types five or six times a search for a video of a decapitation, for example, from IS (Islamic State group), on the internet, the intelligence services cannot know and follow that person. Tomorrow, we can know this information. The French security agency will ask the interior minister, the Prime Minister and the National Commission of Technical Intelligence, which is an independent administrative body that is already following telephone calls, the possibility to uncover the anonymity of the person who is conducting that search in order to be able — if the threat is grave and confirmed — to follow and eventually intervene,", said Gerald Darmanin, French Interior minister.

France should take a lesson from its history and remember that democracy remains stable only as long as the civilian leadership, i.e. the people elected government remains in control of the armed forces. While, undoubtedly, this letter was merely an outburst from the fringe, the right-wing has dragged the matter into the mainstream media. This can be taken as a clear sign that the threat of Islamic terrorism will dominate the election discourse in next year's French elections.

Last week, an open letter warning that France could face a civil war was published. The letter, which was signed by 1,000 military officers, both serving and retired, also threatened a military coup.

Last week, an open letter warning that France could face a civil war was published. The letter, which was signed by 1,000 military officers, both serving and retired, also threatened a military coup. The group of retired and serving officers labels 'Political Islam' as a serious threat. According to them, France's President Emmanuel Macron’s failure to crack down on Islamists may lead to the disintegration of the nation. The signatories also hint at the possibility of a military coup, to take back the control. These opinions mentioned in this open letter were published by a far-right magazine this month. The signatories of the aforementioned letter include 20 retired generals and has been released on the 60th anniversary of the 1961 failed coup attempt, Algiers putsch. Watch | In 1961, generals of the French army had launched a coup against the then-president Charles de Gaulle. The aim behind this coup was to stop the independence of Algeria. The recently published open letter has met with outrage in the French government. The crackdown following this outrage, with reports of military sanctions on 18 soldiers. According to the French armed forces chief of staff, each of them will be presented before a senior military council and might be either forced into immediate retirement or face de-listing. Other signatories can also face formal action. The French defence ministry says that by appealing to their peers to take up arms against the country, these servicemen have broken military rules. A recently conducted poll found that 58 per cent of the French people agree with the sentiments of the letter. French opposition leader Marine Le Pen, who plans to contest against Macron in the next elections, has added more fuel to the fire. She has called on the signatories of this open letter to support her bid for the presidency in 2022. This clamour from the right wing comes at a time when the French government is pushing for an anti-corruption bill. After several terror attacks in the last seven months, President Macron wants to tighten the surveillance powers of security agencies, planning to use algorithms to detect activity on jihadist and extremist websites. "One must know that when someone types five or six times a search for a video of a decapitation, for example, from IS (Islamic State group), on the internet, the intelligence services cannot know and follow that person. Tomorrow, we can know this information. The French security agency will ask the interior minister, the Prime Minister and the National Commission of Technical Intelligence, which is an independent administrative body that is already following telephone calls, the possibility to uncover the anonymity of the person who is conducting that search in order to be able — if the threat is grave and confirmed — to follow and eventually intervene,", said Gerald Darmanin, French Interior minister. France should take a lesson from its history and remember that democracy remains stable only as long as the civilian leadership, i.e. the people elected government remains in control of the armed forces. While, undoubtedly, this letter was merely an outburst from the fringe, the right-wing has dragged the matter into the mainstream media. This can be taken as a clear sign that the threat of Islamic terrorism will dominate the election discourse in next year's French elections.

As Macron opens attack on Islamic State, France faces a potential military rebellion

The US has begun its pullout from Afghanistan, the 'forever war' that started after the 9/11 attacks on twin towers in New York 20 years ago. The development has elicited mixed reactions as there are widespread fears among the Afghans about possible Taliban takeover of the country.

US officials on the ground say the withdrawal is already a work in progress -- and May 1 is just a continuation -- but Washington has made an issue of the date because it is a deadline agreed with the Taliban in 2020 to complete the pullout.

The skies above Kabul and nearby Bagram airbase have been buzzing with more US helicopter activity than usual as the pullout gears up, following the start Thursday of a concurrent NATO withdrawal.

On Saturday, Afghan security forces were on high alert&nbsp;for any possible attack on retreating US soldiers.

An emboldened Taliban has stepped up violence in Afghanistan in months leading to US troop pullout. Even if the Taliban has avoided direct clash with the US troops, they have carried out attacks, assassinations and blasts in various parts of the country.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/goons-or-protectors-pakistan-armys-truth-revealed-in-land-grabbing-case-381780">Goons or protectors? Pakistan army's truth revealed in land grabbing case</a>

A stark reminder of what remains came late Friday with a car bomb in Pul-e-Alam, south of the capital, killing at least 24 people and wounding 110 more.

The exit of US forces has only exacerbated the fear felt by ordinary Afghans.

"Everyone is scared that we might go back to the dark days of the Taliban era," said Mena Nowrozi, who works at a private radio station in Kabul.

"The Taliban are still the same; they have not changed. The US should have extended their presence by at least a year or two," she told AFP.

(With inputs from agencies)

The US has begun its pullout from Afghanistan, the 'forever war' that started after the 9/11 attacks on twin towers in New York 20 years ago. The development has elicited mixed reactions as there are widespread fears among the Afghans about possible Taliban takeover of the country.

The US has begun its pullout from Afghanistan, the 'forever war' that started after the 9/11 attacks on twin towers in New York 20 years ago. The development has elicited mixed reactions as there are widespread fears among the Afghans about possible Taliban takeover of the country. US officials on the ground say the withdrawal is already a work in progress -- and May 1 is just a continuation -- but Washington has made an issue of the date because it is a deadline agreed with the Taliban in 2020 to complete the pullout. The skies above Kabul and nearby Bagram airbase have been buzzing with more US helicopter activity than usual as the pullout gears up, following the start Thursday of a concurrent NATO withdrawal. On Saturday, Afghan security forces were on high alert for any possible attack on retreating US soldiers. An emboldened Taliban has stepped up violence in Afghanistan in months leading to US troop pullout. Even if the Taliban has avoided direct clash with the US troops, they have carried out attacks, assassinations and blasts in various parts of the country. Also Read | Goons or protectors? Pakistan army's truth revealed in land grabbing case A stark reminder of what remains came late Friday with a car bomb in Pul-e-Alam, south of the capital, killing at least 24 people and wounding 110 more. The exit of US forces has only exacerbated the fear felt by ordinary Afghans. "Everyone is scared that we might go back to the dark days of the Taliban era," said Mena Nowrozi, who works at a private radio station in Kabul. "The Taliban are still the same; they have not changed. The US should have extended their presence by at least a year or two," she told AFP. (With inputs from agencies)

Afghanistan: US begins withdrawing troops from the 'forever war'

Eighteen Iraqis were killed in separate jihadist attacks overnight Friday to Saturday. Majority of the dead were military personnel. The attacks took place in greater Baghdad area.

No terrorist group immediately claimed the responsibility for the attacks. However, the modus operandi behind the attacks indicates that it is the handiwork of Islamic State group. The IS still has sleeper cells in Iraq in spite of the group's defeat in 2017.

One attack targeted troops in Tarmiya, an agricultural suburb 20 kilometres (12 miles) north of the Iraqi capital.

"IS fighters attacked an Iraqi army convoy at night and killed two officers and two soldiers," a security official said, on condition of anonymity.&nbsp;

Reinforcements were dispatched to the area but also came under fire, with "an officer and two soldiers" killed, the source said.

A member of tribal fighters integrated into the regular forces that were then deployed to the scene was also killed, "along with a civilian caught in the crossfire", the source added.

Further north, in the central Alton Kubre region, "six peshmerga (Kurdish fighters) were killed when Islamic State group jihadists attacked their military position with light arms", another security official told AFP.

Alton Kubre is a disputed area claimed by both the federal government in Baghdad and the autonomous Kurdistan authorities.&nbsp;

Another attack took place in the western desert bordering Syria, a third security source said.&nbsp;

"An officer and a soldier were killed in a bomb explosion while an army convoy was en route to Akashat," he said.

A soldier was also killed in a bomb blast in Diyala province, which borders Baghdad to the east, according to another official, who added that two other fighters were also wounded in a separate attack.

(With inputs from agencies)

Eighteen Iraqis were killed in separate jihadist attacks overnight Friday to Saturday. Majority of the dead were military personnel. The attacks took place in greater Baghdad area.

Eighteen Iraqis were killed in separate jihadist attacks overnight Friday to Saturday. Majority of the dead were military personnel. The attacks took place in greater Baghdad area. No terrorist group immediately claimed the responsibility for the attacks. However, the modus operandi behind the attacks indicates that it is the handiwork of Islamic State group. The IS still has sleeper cells in Iraq in spite of the group's defeat in 2017. One attack targeted troops in Tarmiya, an agricultural suburb 20 kilometres (12 miles) north of the Iraqi capital. "IS fighters attacked an Iraqi army convoy at night and killed two officers and two soldiers," a security official said, on condition of anonymity. Reinforcements were dispatched to the area but also came under fire, with "an officer and two soldiers" killed, the source said. A member of tribal fighters integrated into the regular forces that were then deployed to the scene was also killed, "along with a civilian caught in the crossfire", the source added. Further north, in the central Alton Kubre region, "six peshmerga (Kurdish fighters) were killed when Islamic State group jihadists attacked their military position with light arms", another security official told AFP. Alton Kubre is a disputed area claimed by both the federal government in Baghdad and the autonomous Kurdistan authorities. Another attack took place in the western desert bordering Syria, a third security source said. "An officer and a soldier were killed in a bomb explosion while an army convoy was en route to Akashat," he said. A soldier was also killed in a bomb blast in Diyala province, which borders Baghdad to the east, according to another official, who added that two other fighters were also wounded in a separate attack. (With inputs from agencies)

Iraq: Jihadist attacks claim 18 lives

More than 100 Afghan security force personnel have been killed over the last two weeks amid a surge of Taliban attacks following Washington's announcement it would pull all US&nbsp;troops out by September&nbsp;11, officials said on Thursday.

Senior Afghan officials say the Taliban is putting on a show of force and seeking to gain territory as foreign forces pull out. The Taliban has waged a two-decade-long insurgency since being ousted from power by US-led foreign troops in 2001.

According to two senior security officials, around 120 Afghan security forces personnel, 65 civilians and over 300 Taliban fighters have been killed in the last 15 days of fighting, and scores more wounded across the country.

A spokesman for the Interior Ministry, Tariq Arian, said the Taliban have carried out at least six suicide bombings and several targeted killings and had planted 65 roadside bombs to target government troops.

He added that more than 60 civilians have been killed and 180 injured. He did not provide figures for casualties suffered by security forces, in keeping with usual government practice.

Dozens of Taliban fighters, including several commanders, have been killed during operations, Arian said.

Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid rejected the government's claim the group had inflicted civilian casualties, saying these were caused by air and ground operations by Afghan forces. He did not comment on the deaths of Taliban or security forces.

President Joe Biden earlier this month announced the United States would begin its final military withdrawal on May 1, completing it by Sept. 11. Foreign troops under NATO command will also withdraw, NATO allies agreed.

Since that announcement, violence has increased by nearly a quarter around the country, with Taliban attacks reported in 21 of the 34 provinces, an Afghan Defence Ministry spokesman said.

"We are already in the middle of Taliban's annual spring offensive but we are prepared and conducting our operations," said a senior government official, who asked not to be named.

Afghan chief of intelligence Ahmad Zia Siraj said the Taliban have increased violence "to the highest level" in recent days.

Top security leaders flew to the central province of Ghazni on Thursday to assess the situation amid reports of the Taliban amassing fighters in the area to overrun the strategic province.

Peace efforts stalled after the Taliban and the Afghan government began talks in the Qatari capital of Doha last year. Washington pushed for a summit in Turkey this month but that was postponed because the Taliban refused to participate, and no new date has been set.

The troop pullout deadline of Sept. 11 is later than a May 1 deadline agreed between the Taliban and United States in Doha last year. The Taliban, which has not attacked foreign troops since the Doha agreement, has called the delay unacceptable.

More than 100 Afghan security force personnel have been killed over the last two weeks amid a surge of Taliban attacks following Washington's announcement it would pull all US troops out by September 11, officials said on Thursday.

More than 100 Afghan security force personnel have been killed over the last two weeks amid a surge of Taliban attacks following Washington's announcement it would pull all US troops out by September 11, officials said on Thursday. Senior Afghan officials say the Taliban is putting on a show of force and seeking to gain territory as foreign forces pull out. The Taliban has waged a two-decade-long insurgency since being ousted from power by US-led foreign troops in 2001. According to two senior security officials, around 120 Afghan security forces personnel, 65 civilians and over 300 Taliban fighters have been killed in the last 15 days of fighting, and scores more wounded across the country. A spokesman for the Interior Ministry, Tariq Arian, said the Taliban have carried out at least six suicide bombings and several targeted killings and had planted 65 roadside bombs to target government troops. He added that more than 60 civilians have been killed and 180 injured. He did not provide figures for casualties suffered by security forces, in keeping with usual government practice. Dozens of Taliban fighters, including several commanders, have been killed during operations, Arian said. Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid rejected the government's claim the group had inflicted civilian casualties, saying these were caused by air and ground operations by Afghan forces. He did not comment on the deaths of Taliban or security forces. President Joe Biden earlier this month announced the United States would begin its final military withdrawal on May 1, completing it by Sept. 11. Foreign troops under NATO command will also withdraw, NATO allies agreed. Since that announcement, violence has increased by nearly a quarter around the country, with Taliban attacks reported in 21 of the 34 provinces, an Afghan Defence Ministry spokesman said. "We are already in the middle of Taliban's annual spring offensive but we are prepared and conducting our operations," said a senior government official, who asked not to be named. Afghan chief of intelligence Ahmad Zia Siraj said the Taliban have increased violence "to the highest level" in recent days. Top security leaders flew to the central province of Ghazni on Thursday to assess the situation amid reports of the Taliban amassing fighters in the area to overrun the strategic province. Peace efforts stalled after the Taliban and the Afghan government began talks in the Qatari capital of Doha last year. Washington pushed for a summit in Turkey this month but that was postponed because the Taliban refused to participate, and no new date has been set. The troop pullout deadline of Sept. 11 is later than a May 1 deadline agreed between the Taliban and United States in Doha last year. The Taliban, which has not attacked foreign troops since the Doha agreement, has called the delay unacceptable.

Hundreds die in surge of violence in Afghanistan

To counter terrorism and further strengthen anti-terror law, French Interior Minister has submitted a draft legislation to President Emmanuel Macron in a cabinet meeting.

France draws up bill on surveillance of jihadist & extremist websites

NATO has begun withdrawing its troops from Afghanistan, reported AFP quoting a senior official of the alliance.

"NATO Allies decided in mid-April to start the withdrawal of Resolute Support Mission forces by May 1 and this withdrawal has begun. This will be an orderly, coordinated, and deliberate process," a NATO official told AFP.&nbsp;

The United States and the allied forces are in the process of withdrawing their forces from Afghanistan. Though the US had said initially that troop withdrawal will take place on May 1, US President Joe Biden has previously said that keeping the date would be difficult.

The US had been engaged with Taliban, widely perceived to gain control of the country in peace talks. However, Taliban attacks and the assassination of prominent Afghan figures have raised alarm everywhere.

Members of the US-backed alliance NATO agreed this month to wrap up their 9,600-strong mission in Afghanistan after Biden made the call to end Washington's longest war.

The decision -- which delayed by several months a deadline agreed by former US leader Donald Trump -- came despite fears it could allow the Taliban to regain power in the country.

The NATO official said the safety of the alliance's troops "will be a top priority every step of the way, and we are taking all necessary measures to keep our personnel from harm". &nbsp;

"Any Taliban attacks during the withdrawal will be met with a forceful response. We plan to have our withdrawal completed within a few months," the official said, refusing to give any f

Biden said the US withdrawal would be completed by September 11, the twentieth anniversary of the 9/11 attacks on America that sparked its military involvement in Afghanistan.&nbsp;

Germany's defence ministry has said it plans to get its 1,300 troops out of the country by early July.&nbsp; 
NATO's training and support mission, which includes some 2,500 US troops and relies heavily on Washington's military assets, has personnel from 36 alliance member nations and partner countries.

The US has said it is temporarily deploying extra troops to protect international forces as they withdraw and has prolonged the presence of an aircraft carrier in the region to support the pull-out.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

NATO has begun withdrawing its troops from Afghanistan, reported AFP quoting a senior official of the alliance. "NATO Allies decided in mid-April to start the withdrawal of Resolute Support Mission forces by May 1 and this withdrawal has begun.

NATO has begun withdrawing its troops from Afghanistan, reported AFP quoting a senior official of the alliance. "NATO Allies decided in mid-April to start the withdrawal of Resolute Support Mission forces by May 1 and this withdrawal has begun. This will be an orderly, coordinated, and deliberate process," a NATO official told AFP. The United States and the allied forces are in the process of withdrawing their forces from Afghanistan. Though the US had said initially that troop withdrawal will take place on May 1, US President Joe Biden has previously said that keeping the date would be difficult. The US had been engaged with Taliban, widely perceived to gain control of the country in peace talks. However, Taliban attacks and the assassination of prominent Afghan figures have raised alarm everywhere. Members of the US-backed alliance NATO agreed this month to wrap up their 9,600-strong mission in Afghanistan after Biden made the call to end Washington's longest war. The decision -- which delayed by several months a deadline agreed by former US leader Donald Trump -- came despite fears it could allow the Taliban to regain power in the country. The NATO official said the safety of the alliance's troops "will be a top priority every step of the way, and we are taking all necessary measures to keep our personnel from harm". "Any Taliban attacks during the withdrawal will be met with a forceful response. We plan to have our withdrawal completed within a few months," the official said, refusing to give any f Biden said the US withdrawal would be completed by September 11, the twentieth anniversary of the 9/11 attacks on America that sparked its military involvement in Afghanistan. Germany's defence ministry has said it plans to get its 1,300 troops out of the country by early July. NATO's training and support mission, which includes some 2,500 US troops and relies heavily on Washington's military assets, has personnel from 36 alliance member nations and partner countries. The US has said it is temporarily deploying extra troops to protect international forces as they withdraw and has prolonged the presence of an aircraft carrier in the region to support the pull-out. (With inputs from agencies)

Afghanistan troop withdrawal has begun, says senior NATO official

A Bangladeshi immigrant was handed a life sentence for trying to carry out a bomb attack in a crowded New York subway passage in the name of the Islamic State group.

On December 11, 2017 Akayed Ullah wounded himself and three other people in a botched blast in a tunnel below the Port Authority bus terminal near Times Square.

The bomb, which he strapped to his body with zip wires, failed to detonate as planned, and Ullah was left with burns to his torso and hands. His victims suffered minor complaints such as ringing in their ears and headaches.

There was panic after the explosion and Monday morning commute during the busy Christmas season was disrupted.

Ullah, who migrated to the United States in 2011, was found guilty on all six counts by a Manhattan jury on November 6, 2018.

The 31-year-old's convictions include supporting a foreign terrorist organisation, using a weapon of mass destruction and bombing a public place.

Judge Richard Sullivan said that although Ullah "ultimately failed" in the execution of the attack, it didn't make him "less culpable."

"Your conduct was truly heinous. This is about as bad a crime as there is," he said, handing down the life sentence.

Ullah's defense counsel had called for the mandatory minimum sentence of 35 years.

Ullah said what he had done was "wrong."

"I can tell you from the bottom of my heart I am deeply sorry for what I did," he told the sentencing hearing.

Ullah was caught on CCTV walking through the subway terminal and detonating the bomb strapped to his body.&nbsp; 
After his arrest, he allegedly told authorities: "I did it for the Islamic State."

Ullah is a lawful permanent resident of the US. He built the bomb in his apartment. packing the device with metal screws and Christmas tree lights, having planned the attack for several weeks.

On the morning of the bombing, Ullah posted a statement on Facebook referring to the US president saying: "Trump you failed to protect your nation."

(With inputs from agencies)

A Bangladeshi immigrant was handed a life sentence for trying to carry out a bomb attack in a crowded New York subway passage in the name of the Islamic State group.

A Bangladeshi immigrant was handed a life sentence for trying to carry out a bomb attack in a crowded New York subway passage in the name of the Islamic State group. On December 11, 2017 Akayed Ullah wounded himself and three other people in a botched blast in a tunnel below the Port Authority bus terminal near Times Square. The bomb, which he strapped to his body with zip wires, failed to detonate as planned, and Ullah was left with burns to his torso and hands. His victims suffered minor complaints such as ringing in their ears and headaches. There was panic after the explosion and Monday morning commute during the busy Christmas season was disrupted. Ullah, who migrated to the United States in 2011, was found guilty on all six counts by a Manhattan jury on November 6, 2018. The 31-year-old's convictions include supporting a foreign terrorist organisation, using a weapon of mass destruction and bombing a public place. Judge Richard Sullivan said that although Ullah "ultimately failed" in the execution of the attack, it didn't make him "less culpable." "Your conduct was truly heinous. This is about as bad a crime as there is," he said, handing down the life sentence. Ullah's defense counsel had called for the mandatory minimum sentence of 35 years. Ullah said what he had done was "wrong." "I can tell you from the bottom of my heart I am deeply sorry for what I did," he told the sentencing hearing. Ullah was caught on CCTV walking through the subway terminal and detonating the bomb strapped to his body. After his arrest, he allegedly told authorities: "I did it for the Islamic State." Ullah is a lawful permanent resident of the US. He built the bomb in his apartment. packing the device with metal screws and Christmas tree lights, having planned the attack for several weeks. On the morning of the bombing, Ullah posted a statement on Facebook referring to the US president saying: "Trump you failed to protect your nation." (With inputs from agencies)

New York subway bomber gets life in prison

Pakistan government has registered a total of 210 first information reports (FIRs) against workers of the proscribed Tehreek-i-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) following the week-long violent protests. The total number of cases included one against, TLP chief Saad Hussain Rizvi.

Addressing a press conference here, Interior Minister of Pakistan Sheikh Rashid on Wednesday said that said 669 out of 733 workers of the banned party who were arrested following violent clashes last week had been released.Most of these workers were from south Punjab and Faisalabad, the minister added.

On Tuesday, a session of the country`s National Assembly was called to debate on the expulsion of the French ambassador from Pakistan&nbsp;one of the main demands made by the proscribed TLP.Meanwhile, Pakistan`s Punjab government placed more than 100 clerics of the outlawed group on the list of terrorism and sectarianism suspects.

A top official of the Punjab Home Department confirmed that the decision has been taken on the recommendation of the District Intelligence Committees. He said over 100 TLP clerics have been placed on the Fourth Schedule under the Anti-Terrorism Act, the News International reported.

TLP has recently been banned by the Pakistan government after violent protests following the arrest of their chief Saad Hussain Rizvi in Lahore on April 12. TLP Pakistan is a hardline religious group with a massive following across Pakistan. Recently, clashes broke out between TLP supporters and law enforcers.

On Sunday, the city of Lahore became a battleground as workers of the recently banned party and policemen clashed. TLP workers also took 11 policemen hostage, who were later released after the first round of talks with the government.The government is currently engaging in talks with the workers of the TLP after a clash with the police in Lahore on Sunday.

Pakistan government has registered a total of 210 first information reports (FIRs) against workers of the proscribed Tehreek-i-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) following the week-long violent protests.

Pakistan government has registered a total of 210 first information reports (FIRs) against workers of the proscribed Tehreek-i-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) following the week-long violent protests. The total number of cases included one against, TLP chief Saad Hussain Rizvi. Addressing a press conference here, Interior Minister of Pakistan Sheikh Rashid on Wednesday said that said 669 out of 733 workers of the banned party who were arrested following violent clashes last week had been released.Most of these workers were from south Punjab and Faisalabad, the minister added. On Tuesday, a session of the country`s National Assembly was called to debate on the expulsion of the French ambassador from Pakistan one of the main demands made by the proscribed TLP.Meanwhile, Pakistan`s Punjab government placed more than 100 clerics of the outlawed group on the list of terrorism and sectarianism suspects. A top official of the Punjab Home Department confirmed that the decision has been taken on the recommendation of the District Intelligence Committees. He said over 100 TLP clerics have been placed on the Fourth Schedule under the Anti-Terrorism Act, the News International reported. TLP has recently been banned by the Pakistan government after violent protests following the arrest of their chief Saad Hussain Rizvi in Lahore on April 12. TLP Pakistan is a hardline religious group with a massive following across Pakistan. Recently, clashes broke out between TLP supporters and law enforcers. On Sunday, the city of Lahore became a battleground as workers of the recently banned party and policemen clashed. TLP workers also took 11 policemen hostage, who were later released after the first round of talks with the government.The government is currently engaging in talks with the workers of the TLP after a clash with the police in Lahore on Sunday.

Pakistan govt registers 210 cases against radical Islamist party TLP

The United States continues to have a dialogue with Pakistan on issues related to terrorism along the border with Afghanistan, the Pentagon has said.&nbsp;

"We continue to have a dialogue with Pakistan about terrorist issues along that border with Afghanistan. I think it's helpful to remind that they too have suffered from terrorist attacks inside their country," Pentagon Press Secretary John Kirby told reporters at a news conference here.&nbsp;

Responding to a question, Kirby said President Joe Biden is clear on withdrawal of American troops from Afghanistan by September 22.&nbsp;

"The president was clear. We are removing US forces from Afghanistan and will maintain the sufficient counter terrorism capabilities we need to detect and prevent threats to our homeland that could emanate from Afghanistan,” Kirby said.&nbsp;

Once the US leaves Afghanistan, he said, they expect the sovereignty of Afghanistan to be respected.&nbsp;

He was responding to a question on reports that Beijing is considering sending a peacekeeping force to Afghanistan once the US pulls out, which will be deployed at the neighbouring province it has with Afghanistan across that 44-mile border.&nbsp;

"We certainly wouldn't speak for another nation and obviously, we would call on all of Afghanistan's neighbours to respect its sovereignty and to respect its territory integrity as well," he said.&nbsp;

"If there's a legitimate terrorism threat that's emanating from Afghanistan to work in accordance with international law and with the Afghan government to address that, but we want Afghanistan's sovereignty to be respected," he asserted.&nbsp;

The US, he said, is removing all military personnel from Afghanistan.&nbsp;

"We will remove them by early September. All of them with the exception of what's going to be required to protect the diplomatic mission in Afghanistan," he said.&nbsp;

"So I know of no discussions with government in Kabul about reinserting counterterrorism forces inside Afghanistan. As the (Defence) Secretary made clear in Brussels last week, we will maintain a sufficient counterterrorism capability in the region to deal with emanating threats from Afghanistan, threats to our homeland from terrorist groups, but the president's direction was crystal clear."&nbsp;

"All US military personnel with that exception are going to be leaving Afghanistan by the early fall," he said.&nbsp;

Kirby insisted that there's no plans to reintroduce American boots on the ground in Afghanistan. &nbsp;

"We have robust counterterrorism capabilities all around the world, and I think as he also - you heard him say in Brussels there's not a part of the Earth that we can't hit if we need to hit it, but there are no plans and no discussions about reintroducing American combat forces on the ground in Afghanistan," he said. &nbsp;

The United States continues to have a dialogue with Pakistan on issues related to terrorism along the border with Afghanistan, the Pentagon has said. "We continue to have a dialogue with Pakistan about terrorist issues along that border with Afghanistan.

The United States continues to have a dialogue with Pakistan on issues related to terrorism along the border with Afghanistan, the Pentagon has said. "We continue to have a dialogue with Pakistan about terrorist issues along that border with Afghanistan. I think it's helpful to remind that they too have suffered from terrorist attacks inside their country," Pentagon Press Secretary John Kirby told reporters at a news conference here. Responding to a question, Kirby said President Joe Biden is clear on withdrawal of American troops from Afghanistan by September 22. "The president was clear. We are removing US forces from Afghanistan and will maintain the sufficient counter terrorism capabilities we need to detect and prevent threats to our homeland that could emanate from Afghanistan,” Kirby said. Once the US leaves Afghanistan, he said, they expect the sovereignty of Afghanistan to be respected. He was responding to a question on reports that Beijing is considering sending a peacekeeping force to Afghanistan once the US pulls out, which will be deployed at the neighbouring province it has with Afghanistan across that 44-mile border. "We certainly wouldn't speak for another nation and obviously, we would call on all of Afghanistan's neighbours to respect its sovereignty and to respect its territory integrity as well," he said. "If there's a legitimate terrorism threat that's emanating from Afghanistan to work in accordance with international law and with the Afghan government to address that, but we want Afghanistan's sovereignty to be respected," he asserted. The US, he said, is removing all military personnel from Afghanistan. "We will remove them by early September. All of them with the exception of what's going to be required to protect the diplomatic mission in Afghanistan," he said. "So I know of no discussions with government in Kabul about reinserting counterterrorism forces inside Afghanistan. As the (Defence) Secretary made clear in Brussels last week, we will maintain a sufficient counterterrorism capability in the region to deal with emanating threats from Afghanistan, threats to our homeland from terrorist groups, but the president's direction was crystal clear." "All US military personnel with that exception are going to be leaving Afghanistan by the early fall," he said. Kirby insisted that there's no plans to reintroduce American boots on the ground in Afghanistan. "We have robust counterterrorism capabilities all around the world, and I think as he also - you heard him say in Brussels there's not a part of the Earth that we can't hit if we need to hit it, but there are no plans and no discussions about reintroducing American combat forces on the ground in Afghanistan," he said.

US continues to have dialogue with Pakistan on terrorism along Afghanistan border: Pentagon  

Two hundred schools, 1000 scholarships, 65000 student exchanges, two dams and one sprawling parliament house. This is what India has given Afghanistan in broad terms. Indian assistance to Afghanistan is spread across sectors like Education, economy, power and most importantly, democracy.

Both countries have had ties since pre-historic times. The ties are as old as the Indus valley civilisation. For the western world, Afghanistan is a strategic goal, but for India, it is about helping an old friend.

For two decades, foreign troops have lumbered in Afghanistan. There was status quo. The civilian government had a godfather.

But once the western troops leave, who takes charge? Who is India betting on? New Delhi has excellent ties with the civilian government. It will be hoping that good situation prevails beyond September 11.

But the Taliban has other plans. They don't see themselves as stakeholders in Afghanistan. They believe that they are government-in-waiting.

This definitely isn't good news for India or for the world. India's Foreign Minister S Jaishankar talked about this on Friday. He said Afghanistan's future should not be a return to the past.

He was talking about the time when the Taliban ruled the country.

Here's what that Afghanistan looked like,

<ul>
	<li>No school for girls</li>
	<li>Ruthless punishment for blasphemy.</li>
	<li>Zero room for dissent.</li>
	<li>Zero tolerance for cultural diversity.</li>
</ul>

And a rejection of modern Science and Engineering.

It was basically a throwback to the dark ages. Dealing with such a regime would be impossible.

We say this because ofo three specific reasons

1. Taliban's not-so-covert links with terrorism.

India does not need another terror launchpad in the region. This was the case before 9/11. The Taliban have promised to not fund terror groups but looking at recent uptick in violence, that's hard to believe.

2. A growing Pakistani shadow

It is no secret that Islamabad funds and trains Taliban fighters. They were more than happy to walk terrorists over to Pakistan in 1999.

This was after the hijacking of Indian Airlines flight IC-814. We all know the story.

The bottom line is this. India cannot afford to have a Pak proxy in Kabul.

3. Risk to India's economic interests

New Delhi has way too much to lose. It has invested more than 3 billion dollars in Afghanistan.

That's 400 projects, in all 34 provinces. These projects include dams, schools, hospitals, clinics and more. Some of these installations have been attacked by Taliban proxies. The US presence was like insurance for Indian interests. With that gone, these mega-projects are vulnerable to attacks.

So what are India's options here?

History has some clues. Before 9/11, Afghanistan was the Wild West. The US never bothered to check the Taliban's rise. It was India, Iran and Russia that kept the resistance alive.

Now is the time to revive that axis. Russia is keen on a larger role. So is Iran. Both countries have warned Taliban against cosying up to terrorists.

India should try and revive the great game. The game, not of competition, but co-operation India has enough diplomatic leverage with both Russia and Iran. It must exercise this leverage. If India cannot be the sole player in Afghanistan, it must aim to be&nbsp;the most influential one.

But this might put New Delhi at odds with Washington. Both Iran and Russia are sworn enemies of the US. Moreover, Washington has a history of dumping regional allies. Just look at the Kurds in Syria.

Joe Biden says he will hold the Taliban to their word. But without his troops in Afghanistan, how powerful is Biden? India cannot bank on a power thousands of miles away.

It can be sure of one thing though. If the Taliban takes over after America withdraws, Joe Biden will not have the high ground to criticise a Russia-Iran-India axis.

In addition to all this, there is a new player on the block in the form of China. India can keep China at bay by disarming Beijing's biggest weapon. Its chequebook. India must keep investing in Afghanistan. If the Afghan economy tanks, China will swoop in. Only self-reliance can lead to stability. It's the same for security.

India should deploy military contractors to train Afghan security forces. Make them capable of defending the civilian government. So aid must continue. So must intelligence sharing and training exercises.

This means India can check the three boxes of a perfect partnership. Shared history, economic ties and military support.

India is Afghanistan's best bet. New Delhi has always called for an Afghan-led and Afghan-controlled peace. It has never put a caveat on investments. But this isn't a one-way show. Afghanistan is India's key to Central Asia.

Unlike other stakeholders. New Delhi does not want to play the great game. It wants to play it on Afghanistan's behalf.

(Disclaimer: WION Edit is the channel's take on the big events of the world)

Two hundred schools, 1000 scholarships, 65000 student exchanges, two dams and one sprawling parliament house. This is what India has given Afghanistan in broad terms.

Two hundred schools, 1000 scholarships, 65000 student exchanges, two dams and one sprawling parliament house. This is what India has given Afghanistan in broad terms. Indian assistance to Afghanistan is spread across sectors like Education, economy, power and most importantly, democracy. Both countries have had ties since pre-historic times. The ties are as old as the Indus valley civilisation. For the western world, Afghanistan is a strategic goal, but for India, it is about helping an old friend. For two decades, foreign troops have lumbered in Afghanistan. There was status quo. The civilian government had a godfather. But once the western troops leave, who takes charge? Who is India betting on? New Delhi has excellent ties with the civilian government. It will be hoping that good situation prevails beyond September 11. But the Taliban has other plans. They don't see themselves as stakeholders in Afghanistan. They believe that they are government-in-waiting. This definitely isn't good news for India or for the world. India's Foreign Minister S Jaishankar talked about this on Friday. He said Afghanistan's future should not be a return to the past. He was talking about the time when the Taliban ruled the country. Here's what that Afghanistan looked like, No school for girls Ruthless punishment for blasphemy. Zero room for dissent. Zero tolerance for cultural diversity. And a rejection of modern Science and Engineering. It was basically a throwback to the dark ages. Dealing with such a regime would be impossible. We say this because ofo three specific reasons 1. Taliban's not-so-covert links with terrorism. India does not need another terror launchpad in the region. This was the case before 9/11. The Taliban have promised to not fund terror groups but looking at recent uptick in violence, that's hard to believe. 2. A growing Pakistani shadow It is no secret that Islamabad funds and trains Taliban fighters. They were more than happy to walk terrorists over to Pakistan in 1999. This was after the hijacking of Indian Airlines flight IC-814. We all know the story. The bottom line is this. India cannot afford to have a Pak proxy in Kabul. 3. Risk to India's economic interests New Delhi has way too much to lose. It has invested more than 3 billion dollars in Afghanistan. That's 400 projects, in all 34 provinces. These projects include dams, schools, hospitals, clinics and more. Some of these installations have been attacked by Taliban proxies. The US presence was like insurance for Indian interests. With that gone, these mega-projects are vulnerable to attacks. So what are India's options here? History has some clues. Before 9/11, Afghanistan was the Wild West. The US never bothered to check the Taliban's rise. It was India, Iran and Russia that kept the resistance alive. Now is the time to revive that axis. Russia is keen on a larger role. So is Iran. Both countries have warned Taliban against cosying up to terrorists. India should try and revive the great game. The game, not of competition, but co-operation India has enough diplomatic leverage with both Russia and Iran. It must exercise this leverage. If India cannot be the sole player in Afghanistan, it must aim to be the most influential one. But this might put New Delhi at odds with Washington. Both Iran and Russia are sworn enemies of the US. Moreover, Washington has a history of dumping regional allies. Just look at the Kurds in Syria. Joe Biden says he will hold the Taliban to their word. But without his troops in Afghanistan, how powerful is Biden? India cannot bank on a power thousands of miles away. It can be sure of one thing though. If the Taliban takes over after America withdraws, Joe Biden will not have the high ground to criticise a Russia-Iran-India axis. In addition to all this, there is a new player on the block in the form of China. India can keep China at bay by disarming Beijing's biggest weapon. Its chequebook. India must keep investing in Afghanistan. If the Afghan economy tanks, China will swoop in. Only self-reliance can lead to stability. It's the same for security. India should deploy military contractors to train Afghan security forces. Make them capable of defending the civilian government. So aid must continue. So must intelligence sharing and training exercises. This means India can check the three boxes of a perfect partnership. Shared history, economic ties and military support. India is Afghanistan's best bet. New Delhi has always called for an Afghan-led and Afghan-controlled peace. It has never put a caveat on investments. But this isn't a one-way show. Afghanistan is India's key to Central Asia. Unlike other stakeholders. New Delhi does not want to play the great game. It wants to play it on Afghanistan's behalf. (Disclaimer: WION Edit is the channel's take on the big events of the world)

WION Edit: India is Afghanistan's best bet

The special forces of India and Kyrgyzstan have started a two-week military exercise in Bishkek with a focus on counter-terror drills. 
 
The exercise named, `Khanjar`, was inaugurated on Friday at the Special Forces Brigade of National Guards of Kyrgyz Republic in Bishkek. 
 
It is the eight edition of the India-Kyrgyz Joint Special Forces Exercise. 
 
Initiated first in 2011, the two-week long exercise focuses on high-altitude, mountains and counter-extremism. 
 
Commander of Kyrgyz National Guards, Colonel Ergeshov Talantbek, in his opening remarks, commended high-altitude resilience of the two personnel and their camaraderie and interoperability. 
 
Recalling the India-Kyrgyz civilisational bonds, Ambassador Alok A. Dimri welcomed the Indian contingent for the Exercise and felicitated their role as a bridge in promoting shared mountain and nomadic-heritage of the two peoples. 
 
A ceremonial parade graced the occasion along with a display of equipment and weapons and a visit to the training arena and barracks. 
 
It envisaged conduct of joint military exercises, exchange of experience and information, and exchange of military observers and instructors besides others. 
 
In 2018, India and Kyrgyzstan signed four agreements, including one to boost defence cooperation and hold annual joint military exercises. 
 
The two countries had agreed to expeditiously consider signing an agreement on "combating international terrorism and other crimes". 
 
Prime Minister Narendra Modi made a visit in 2018 to emphasis the need to combat terrorism and extremism, a threat without borders.

The special forces of India and Kyrgyzstan have started a two-week military exercise in Bishkek with a focus on counter-terror drills. The exercise named, `Khanjar`, was inaugurated on Friday at the Special Forces Brigade of National Guards of Kyrgyz Republic in Bishkek.

The special forces of India and Kyrgyzstan have started a two-week military exercise in Bishkek with a focus on counter-terror drills. The exercise named, `Khanjar`, was inaugurated on Friday at the Special Forces Brigade of National Guards of Kyrgyz Republic in Bishkek. It is the eight edition of the India-Kyrgyz Joint Special Forces Exercise. Initiated first in 2011, the two-week long exercise focuses on high-altitude, mountains and counter-extremism. Commander of Kyrgyz National Guards, Colonel Ergeshov Talantbek, in his opening remarks, commended high-altitude resilience of the two personnel and their camaraderie and interoperability. Recalling the India-Kyrgyz civilisational bonds, Ambassador Alok A. Dimri welcomed the Indian contingent for the Exercise and felicitated their role as a bridge in promoting shared mountain and nomadic-heritage of the two peoples. A ceremonial parade graced the occasion along with a display of equipment and weapons and a visit to the training arena and barracks. It envisaged conduct of joint military exercises, exchange of experience and information, and exchange of military observers and instructors besides others. In 2018, India and Kyrgyzstan signed four agreements, including one to boost defence cooperation and hold annual joint military exercises. The two countries had agreed to expeditiously consider signing an agreement on "combating international terrorism and other crimes". Prime Minister Narendra Modi made a visit in 2018 to emphasis the need to combat terrorism and extremism, a threat without borders.

India, Kyrgyzstan special forces start two-week counter-terror drills

We cannot discuss future of Afghanistan without talking about Pakistan. It is a country that drives the conflict in Afghanistan. It has always supported Taliban and its proxies.

Pakistan's support to the Taliban is no secret.

According to one claim, the ISI's proxy war has killed more than 124,000 people in Afghanistan. Islamabad, or more accurately, Rawalpindi's influence with the Taliban is the reason why Pakistan has a seat at the table when future of Afghanistan is discussed.

It's the reason why Afghanistan and India are wary of Pakistan's intentions. Without naming Pakistan, India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said foreign fighters need to leave Afghanistan. The National Security Advisor of Afghanistan agreed.&nbsp;

He said that blame would fall squarely on one party for any escalation in violence.

Kabul has sent a warning to Islamabad saying that if it attempts escalation through the proxies, there will be a fierce pushback.

India shares similar worries. EAM was quite vocal about New Delhi's concerns over Pakistan. He said any solution must be backed up by all neighbours and not just a single party that likes to talk with force.

Supporting terrorism in Afghanistan and other countries has also had an effect on Pakistan. The terror-mongers and those who want to provide them safe havens gained importance in Pakistan's decision-making machinery. Ending support to terrorism is in the interest of Pakistan itself. 
&nbsp;

We cannot discuss future of Afghanistan without talking about Pakistan. It is a country that drives the conflict in Afghanistan. It has always supported Taliban and its proxies.

We cannot discuss future of Afghanistan without talking about Pakistan. It is a country that drives the conflict in Afghanistan. It has always supported Taliban and its proxies. Pakistan's support to the Taliban is no secret. According to one claim, the ISI's proxy war has killed more than 124,000 people in Afghanistan. Islamabad, or more accurately, Rawalpindi's influence with the Taliban is the reason why Pakistan has a seat at the table when future of Afghanistan is discussed. It's the reason why Afghanistan and India are wary of Pakistan's intentions. Without naming Pakistan, India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said foreign fighters need to leave Afghanistan. The National Security Advisor of Afghanistan agreed. He said that blame would fall squarely on one party for any escalation in violence. Kabul has sent a warning to Islamabad saying that if it attempts escalation through the proxies, there will be a fierce pushback. India shares similar worries. EAM was quite vocal about New Delhi's concerns over Pakistan. He said any solution must be backed up by all neighbours and not just a single party that likes to talk with force. Supporting terrorism in Afghanistan and other countries has also had an effect on Pakistan. The terror-mongers and those who want to provide them safe havens gained importance in Pakistan's decision-making machinery. Ending support to terrorism is in the interest of Pakistan itself.

Pakistan: The country that influences conflict in Afghanistan

Pakistan has played on both sides of the field in Afghanistan, contributing to the Taliban's success, a senior US senator has reminded his colleagues, a day after Washington announced plans to withdraw all troops from the war-torn Asian country by September 11.

Chairman of Senate Armed Services Committee, Senator Jack Reed, on the Senate floor Thursday afternoon, said "a crucial factor contributing immensely to the Taliban's success" has been the inability of the US to "eliminate the sanctuary the Taliban was granted in Pakistan."

Referring to a recent study, Reed said the Taliban sanctuary in Pakistan and state support from organisations, like Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), have been essential to their war effort and the US'' failure to undermine this haven may be Washington's most significant mistake of the war.

"As the (congressionally mandated) Afghan Study Group noted, these sanctuaries are essential to the viability of the insurgency. Additionally, Pakistan's ISI aided and abetted the Taliban while opportunistically cooperating with the United States," Reed said.

A Brookings scholar, Reed said as per the assessment in 2018, Pakistan provided direct military and intelligence aid resulting in the deaths of US soldiers, Afghan security personnel and civilians, plus significant destabilisation of Afghanistan.

"This support of the Taliban runs counter to Pakistani cooperation with the United States, including as they have, allowing the use of airspace and other infrastructure for which the United States provided significant funding," he said.

"As the Afghan Study Group noted, Pakistan has played both sides of the field. These dynamics further play out against the complex environment in Pakistan which has implications for the national security of the United States, its allies and partners," he said, adding that Pakistan is simultaneously fragile and armed with nuclear weapons, making its vulnerability particularly dangerous.

"To add to this toxic mix, Pakistan is in a long-standing battle with its neighbour India which is also armed with nuclear weapons," Reed said.

The Senator said Pakistan and India have long been involved in a battle of power in South Asia.

"While bogged down politically and militarily in daily crises in Afghanistan and Iraq, the United States, over multiple administrations, has been unable to focus the necessary attention on Pakistan. Therefore, these problems have only gotten worse," he said.

The senator said another factor behind the troop pullout from Afghanistan was shaped by the US and its coalition partners inability to develop an Afghan government that could gain the confidence of the people, especially beyond the cities, and provide basic services including security, education, health care, and justice.

During a televised address to the nation on Wednesday, President Biden said that keeping thousands of troops grounded and concentrated in just one country at a cost of billions each year made "little sense" to him.

He said all US troops would be withdrawn from the strife-torn country by September 11 to end America's longest war that has cost trillions of dollars and the lives of over 2,400 American soldiers.

The US and the Taliban signed a landmark deal in Doha on February 29, 2020, to bring lasting peace in war-torn Afghanistan and allow US troops to return home from America's longest war.

Under the US-Taliban pact signed in Doha, Qatar, the US agreed to withdraw all its soldiers from Afghanistan in 14 months.

Since the US-led invasion that ousted the Taliban after the September 11, 2001 attacks, America has spent more than USD 1 trillion in fighting and rebuilding in Afghanistan.

About 2,450 US soldiers have been killed and over 20,700 others have been injured in the war in Afghanistan.

Pakistan has played on both sides of the field in Afghanistan, contributing to the Taliban's success, a senior US senator has reminded his colleagues, a day after Washington announced plans to withdraw all troops from the war-torn Asian country by September 11.

Pakistan has played on both sides of the field in Afghanistan, contributing to the Taliban's success, a senior US senator has reminded his colleagues, a day after Washington announced plans to withdraw all troops from the war-torn Asian country by September 11. Chairman of Senate Armed Services Committee, Senator Jack Reed, on the Senate floor Thursday afternoon, said "a crucial factor contributing immensely to the Taliban's success" has been the inability of the US to "eliminate the sanctuary the Taliban was granted in Pakistan." Referring to a recent study, Reed said the Taliban sanctuary in Pakistan and state support from organisations, like Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), have been essential to their war effort and the US'' failure to undermine this haven may be Washington's most significant mistake of the war. "As the (congressionally mandated) Afghan Study Group noted, these sanctuaries are essential to the viability of the insurgency. Additionally, Pakistan's ISI aided and abetted the Taliban while opportunistically cooperating with the United States," Reed said. A Brookings scholar, Reed said as per the assessment in 2018, Pakistan provided direct military and intelligence aid resulting in the deaths of US soldiers, Afghan security personnel and civilians, plus significant destabilisation of Afghanistan. "This support of the Taliban runs counter to Pakistani cooperation with the United States, including as they have, allowing the use of airspace and other infrastructure for which the United States provided significant funding," he said. "As the Afghan Study Group noted, Pakistan has played both sides of the field. These dynamics further play out against the complex environment in Pakistan which has implications for the national security of the United States, its allies and partners," he said, adding that Pakistan is simultaneously fragile and armed with nuclear weapons, making its vulnerability particularly dangerous. "To add to this toxic mix, Pakistan is in a long-standing battle with its neighbour India which is also armed with nuclear weapons," Reed said. The Senator said Pakistan and India have long been involved in a battle of power in South Asia. "While bogged down politically and militarily in daily crises in Afghanistan and Iraq, the United States, over multiple administrations, has been unable to focus the necessary attention on Pakistan. Therefore, these problems have only gotten worse," he said. The senator said another factor behind the troop pullout from Afghanistan was shaped by the US and its coalition partners inability to develop an Afghan government that could gain the confidence of the people, especially beyond the cities, and provide basic services including security, education, health care, and justice. During a televised address to the nation on Wednesday, President Biden said that keeping thousands of troops grounded and concentrated in just one country at a cost of billions each year made "little sense" to him. He said all US troops would be withdrawn from the strife-torn country by September 11 to end America's longest war that has cost trillions of dollars and the lives of over 2,400 American soldiers. The US and the Taliban signed a landmark deal in Doha on February 29, 2020, to bring lasting peace in war-torn Afghanistan and allow US troops to return home from America's longest war. Under the US-Taliban pact signed in Doha, Qatar, the US agreed to withdraw all its soldiers from Afghanistan in 14 months. Since the US-led invasion that ousted the Taliban after the September 11, 2001 attacks, America has spent more than USD 1 trillion in fighting and rebuilding in Afghanistan. About 2,450 US soldiers have been killed and over 20,700 others have been injured in the war in Afghanistan.

'Pakistan helped the Taliban, played on both sides in Afghanistan': US senator

Taliban on Thursday accused the US of breaching Doha peace agreement by skipping May 1 as the deadline for full withdrawal of American troops from the country, said Tolo News.

In a statement cited by Tolo News, Taliban warned the US of "consequences" and said that US would be "responsible" for all "countermeasures" taken by "Mujahideen of Islamic Emirate".

USA had earlier announced that all troops would be withdrawn by May 1 this year but high-level officials within the US government have been quoted to suggest that the withdrawal will be complete by September 11, the 20th anniversary of 9/11 attacks this year.

The Taliban has reportedly used very strong words in their statement.&nbsp;

“As this agreement was signed in the presence of United Nations and representatives of numerous world countries and organisations, and is currently being breached by America, it is imperative that all countries and organisations that were witnesses to the signing of this agreement exert pressure on America to implement its commitments and withdraw all forces from Afghanistan by the specified date,” said Taliban.

“Now as the agreement is being breached by America, it in principle opens the way for the Mujahideen of Islamic Emirate to take every necessary countermeasure, hence the American side will be held responsible for all future consequences, and not the Islamic Emirate,” read Taliban's statement.

Blinken in Afghanistan

On Thursday, US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken made an unannounced visit to Afghanistan.

Blinken met Afghan President Ashraf Ghani as well as senior US officials in Kabul and brief them on President Joe Biden’s Wednesday announcement he was ending "the forever war", which began in response to the 2001 September 11 attacks.

"I wanted to demonstrate with my visit the ongoing commitment of the United States to the Islamic Republic and the people of Afghanistan," Blinken said after meeting Ghani.

"The partnership is changing, but the partnership is enduring."

(With inputs from agencies)

Taliban on Thursday accused the US of breaching Doha peace agreement by skipping May 1 as the deadline for full withdrawal of American troops from the country, said Tolo News.

Taliban on Thursday accused the US of breaching Doha peace agreement by skipping May 1 as the deadline for full withdrawal of American troops from the country, said Tolo News. In a statement cited by Tolo News, Taliban warned the US of "consequences" and said that US would be "responsible" for all "countermeasures" taken by "Mujahideen of Islamic Emirate". USA had earlier announced that all troops would be withdrawn by May 1 this year but high-level officials within the US government have been quoted to suggest that the withdrawal will be complete by September 11, the 20th anniversary of 9/11 attacks this year. The Taliban has reportedly used very strong words in their statement. “As this agreement was signed in the presence of United Nations and representatives of numerous world countries and organisations, and is currently being breached by America, it is imperative that all countries and organisations that were witnesses to the signing of this agreement exert pressure on America to implement its commitments and withdraw all forces from Afghanistan by the specified date,” said Taliban. “Now as the agreement is being breached by America, it in principle opens the way for the Mujahideen of Islamic Emirate to take every necessary countermeasure, hence the American side will be held responsible for all future consequences, and not the Islamic Emirate,” read Taliban's statement. Blinken in Afghanistan On Thursday, US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken made an unannounced visit to Afghanistan. Blinken met Afghan President Ashraf Ghani as well as senior US officials in Kabul and brief them on President Joe Biden’s Wednesday announcement he was ending "the forever war", which began in response to the 2001 September 11 attacks. "I wanted to demonstrate with my visit the ongoing commitment of the United States to the Islamic Republic and the people of Afghanistan," Blinken said after meeting Ghani. "The partnership is changing, but the partnership is enduring." (With inputs from agencies)

Taliban warns US of 'countermeasures': Report

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