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

The Chinese&nbsp;government on Thursday said that currently the security situation in Afghanistan remains complicated and grave and terrorism is far from being eradicated.

Voicing concern over America's decision to withdraw all its troops from Afghanistan by September, China said that Washington should accommodate legitimate security concerns of the regional countries to prevent “terrorist forces” from taking advantage of the chaos in the war-torn country.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian also criticised Washington for linking the withdrawal of the US troops from Afghanistan to focus more on the threats posed by China, saying the fight against terrorism is in the common interest of all parties, including the two countries.

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"The current security situation in Afghanistan is still complex and grim and the problem of terrorism is far from being solved. Foreign troops stationed in Afghanistan should withdraw in a responsible and orderly manner to ensure a smooth transition in Afghanistan and to avoid terrorist forces from taking advantage of the chaos," Zhao Lijian said at a media briefing while responding to questions on US troops pullout plan.

"The US is the biggest external factor affecting the issue of Afghanistan... It must take full responsibility for preserving the outcomes of Afghanistan's peaceful construction and reconstruction and accommodate legitimate security concerns of the countries in the region," he said.

To a question that the US is linking its troops' withdrawal to focus on China, Mr Zhao said, "The US side links its withdrawal from Afghanistan to China's challenge."

"This reflects deep-rooted zero-sum mindset from the Cold War which is detrimental to mutual trust between the two countries and it is not conducive to cooperation and coordination on international and regional issues."

"We have to emphasise that the political solution to Afghanistan and early realisation of peace and stability in the country and the fight against terrorism are in the common interest of all parties concerned, including China and the US and are also common aspiration of the international community," he said.

White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki has said that the US "will begin an orderly drawdown of the remaining forces before May 1 and plan to have all US troops out of the country before the 20th anniversary of 9/11."

Later US President Joe Biden said, "It is time to end America's longest war. It is time for American troops to come home."

Mr Zhao also said China will attend the UN conference on Afghanistan scheduled to be held in Istanbul from April 20 to May 4 to find a peaceful solution to Afghanistan's civil strife.

Observers say that the US' latest plan to speed up the withdrawal of more troops from Afghanistan may have troubling consequences for China.

China, whose volatile Xinjiang province shares a border with Afghanistan, has been expressing concern over the US troops withdrawal despite its current round of tensions with Washington on a host of issues including, the US claiming genocide by China against Muslim Uygurs in Xinjiang.

China has been refuting allegations of mass detention camps and other gross human rights violations against Uygurs Muslims.

The previous Trump administration had lifted the ban on the separatist East Turkistan Islamic Movement (ETIM), a Uighur terror outfit.

The ETIM was designated as a terrorist organisation by the UN's 1267 counter-terrorism committee in 2002 for its alleged association with Al Qaeda, the then Al Qaeda chief Osama bin Laden and the Taliban.

Despite its all-weather ties with Pakistan, which holds a strong control over the Taliban as it operates from the Pakistani territory, China's concerns stem from the reports of regrouping of hundreds of Uygur groups who worked with terror group ISIS in Syria and Afghanistan to stage attacks in Xinjiang. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

The Chinese government on Thursday said that currently the security situation in Afghanistan remains complicated and grave and terrorism is far from being eradicated.

The Chinese government on Thursday said that currently the security situation in Afghanistan remains complicated and grave and terrorism is far from being eradicated. Voicing concern over America's decision to withdraw all its troops from Afghanistan by September, China said that Washington should accommodate legitimate security concerns of the regional countries to prevent “terrorist forces” from taking advantage of the chaos in the war-torn country. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian also criticised Washington for linking the withdrawal of the US troops from Afghanistan to focus more on the threats posed by China, saying the fight against terrorism is in the common interest of all parties, including the two countries. US President Joe Biden said on Wednesday that he would withdraw all remaining US troops – about 2,500 – from Afghanistan by September 11, the 20th anniversary of the terrorist attack in New York. × "The current security situation in Afghanistan is still complex and grim and the problem of terrorism is far from being solved. Foreign troops stationed in Afghanistan should withdraw in a responsible and orderly manner to ensure a smooth transition in Afghanistan and to avoid terrorist forces from taking advantage of the chaos," Zhao Lijian said at a media briefing while responding to questions on US troops pullout plan. "The US is the biggest external factor affecting the issue of Afghanistan... It must take full responsibility for preserving the outcomes of Afghanistan's peaceful construction and reconstruction and accommodate legitimate security concerns of the countries in the region," he said. To a question that the US is linking its troops' withdrawal to focus on China, Mr Zhao said, "The US side links its withdrawal from Afghanistan to China's challenge." "This reflects deep-rooted zero-sum mindset from the Cold War which is detrimental to mutual trust between the two countries and it is not conducive to cooperation and coordination on international and regional issues." "We have to emphasise that the political solution to Afghanistan and early realisation of peace and stability in the country and the fight against terrorism are in the common interest of all parties concerned, including China and the US and are also common aspiration of the international community," he said. White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki has said that the US "will begin an orderly drawdown of the remaining forces before May 1 and plan to have all US troops out of the country before the 20th anniversary of 9/11." Later US President Joe Biden said, "It is time to end America's longest war. It is time for American troops to come home." Mr Zhao also said China will attend the UN conference on Afghanistan scheduled to be held in Istanbul from April 20 to May 4 to find a peaceful solution to Afghanistan's civil strife. Observers say that the US' latest plan to speed up the withdrawal of more troops from Afghanistan may have troubling consequences for China. China, whose volatile Xinjiang province shares a border with Afghanistan, has been expressing concern over the US troops withdrawal despite its current round of tensions with Washington on a host of issues including, the US claiming genocide by China against Muslim Uygurs in Xinjiang. China has been refuting allegations of mass detention camps and other gross human rights violations against Uygurs Muslims. The previous Trump administration had lifted the ban on the separatist East Turkistan Islamic Movement (ETIM), a Uighur terror outfit. The ETIM was designated as a terrorist organisation by the UN's 1267 counter-terrorism committee in 2002 for its alleged association with Al Qaeda, the then Al Qaeda chief Osama bin Laden and the Taliban. Despite its all-weather ties with Pakistan, which holds a strong control over the Taliban as it operates from the Pakistani territory, China's concerns stem from the reports of regrouping of hundreds of Uygur groups who worked with terror group ISIS in Syria and Afghanistan to stage attacks in Xinjiang. (With inputs from agencies)

'Terrorism far from over', says China about US troop pullout plan from Afghanistan

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Thursday began an unannounced visit to Afghanistan. His visit comes amid US plans to withdraw all American troops from the country before the 20th anniversary this year of September 11 terror attacks.

The withdrawal plans are going ahead in spite of a deadlock in peace talks with Taliban. This threatens to leave a power vacuum in Afghanistan. Initially aimed at May 1, the withdrawal plans have been postponed by four months.

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."

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-says-time-to-end-us-war-in-afghanistan-with-total-pullout-377585">Biden says 'time to end' US war in Afghanistan with total pullout</a>

The Pentagon has around 2,500 troops in Afghanistan from a high of over 100,000. Thousands more serve as part of a 9,600-strong NATO force, which will withdraw at the same time.

Ever since the US indicated that it wanted to pull out from Afghanistan, there has been marked increase in violence with emboldened Taliban carrying out bombings and assassinations.

"It could cost us losing everything we worked and fought together for in the past 20 years and could risk overall security in Afghanistan," said Metra Mehran, a Kabul-based women's rights activist.

For the US, however, after 20 years and more than 2,400 deaths, enough is enough.

"We cannot continue the cycle of extending or expanding our military presence in Afghanistan hoping to create the ideal conditions for our withdrawal, expecting a different result," Biden said.

The delayed withdrawal -- even by just over four months -- has angered the Taliban, who have threatened to resume hostilities against US forces.

"If the agreement is breached and foreign forces fail to exit our country on the specified date, problems will certainly be compounded and those who failed to comply with the agreement will be held liable," spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid said on Twitter on Wednesday.

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Thursday began an unannounced visit to Afghanistan. His visit comes amid US plans to withdraw all American troops from the country before the 20th anniversary this year of September 11 terror attacks.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Thursday began an unannounced visit to Afghanistan. His visit comes amid US plans to withdraw all American troops from the country before the 20th anniversary this year of September 11 terror attacks. The withdrawal plans are going ahead in spite of a deadlock in peace talks with Taliban. This threatens to leave a power vacuum in Afghanistan. Initially aimed at May 1, the withdrawal plans have been postponed by four months. 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." Also Read | Biden says 'time to end' US war in Afghanistan with total pullout The Pentagon has around 2,500 troops in Afghanistan from a high of over 100,000. Thousands more serve as part of a 9,600-strong NATO force, which will withdraw at the same time. Ever since the US indicated that it wanted to pull out from Afghanistan, there has been marked increase in violence with emboldened Taliban carrying out bombings and assassinations. "It could cost us losing everything we worked and fought together for in the past 20 years and could risk overall security in Afghanistan," said Metra Mehran, a Kabul-based women's rights activist. For the US, however, after 20 years and more than 2,400 deaths, enough is enough. "We cannot continue the cycle of extending or expanding our military presence in Afghanistan hoping to create the ideal conditions for our withdrawal, expecting a different result," Biden said. The delayed withdrawal -- even by just over four months -- has angered the Taliban, who have threatened to resume hostilities against US forces. "If the agreement is breached and foreign forces fail to exit our country on the specified date, problems will certainly be compounded and those who failed to comply with the agreement will be held liable," spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid said on Twitter on Wednesday. (With inputs from agencies)

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken in Afghanistan on a surprise visit

Kashmir is changing and it is important to map this change. In the last 14 days, Kashmir has hosted two fashion shows.

Local models walking down the ramp local designers showcasing their talent. Dancers and artists fearlessly owning the stage.

At least 500 guests attended the second fashion show. Among them- were some big names from Bollywood.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-jammu-and-kashmir-caught-in-conflicting-narratives-377382/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

For Kashmiri artists, it was their stairway to Mumbai. India's maximum city, the home of the Hindi cinema. The burst of opportunity and multi-culturalism did not go down too well with some elements in the valley.

So the second fashion show was accompanied by protests. It was preceded by a terror attack.&nbsp;

Whenever a positive story comes out of Kashmir, a negative one imminently follows.

Because of some elements, it is important to highlight a grim picture of Kashmir.

On the day of the second fashion show, a territorial army soldier was shot in the valley.&nbsp;

His name was Mohammed Saleem Akhoon. He was on leave. He had gone home to visit his family. To meet his six-year-old son, his nine-year-old daughter. To spend time with his wife.

Terrorists attacked Akhoon at his home. They killed him and he was not the first soldier to be killed on leave.

In 2020, Shakir Manzoor was killed on his way home. Manzoor too was a territorial army soldier.

In June 2019, Manzoor Ahmad Baig was shot, again, at his home.

He too was a soldier on leave.

Those watching us from India will be familiar with the name-- lieutenant Umar Fayaz.&nbsp;He was just 22 and was abducted from a relative's home and killed. The young lieutenant Fayaz was also on leave. As was a soldier called Aurangzeb who too was killed the same year.

For quashing the dreams of the youth.For harassing youngsters for daring to dream Bollywood.For killing local men in uniform to deter the youth from donning it. But this strategy isn't working anymore.

Constructed fear has a limited shelf life. In Kashmir, it has expired.

The people of Kashmir have decided to take control of their lives. To dream big. Kashmir today is a story of hope.

Where fashion shows are not called off because a bunch of followers of some conservative cleric chose to protest.

Today, theatres are flourishing in Kashmir. The valley is being celebrated on social media like never before.&nbsp;

Yes, there are still challenges, there's no denying that. But there is also a clear wave of change. And this change is immune to politics and threats.

Kashmir is changing and it is important to map this change. In the last 14 days, Kashmir has hosted two fashion shows. Local models walking down the ramp local designers showcasing their talent.

Kashmir is changing and it is important to map this change. In the last 14 days, Kashmir has hosted two fashion shows. Local models walking down the ramp local designers showcasing their talent. Dancers and artists fearlessly owning the stage. At least 500 guests attended the second fashion show. Among them- were some big names from Bollywood. For Kashmiri artists, it was their stairway to Mumbai. India's maximum city, the home of the Hindi cinema. The burst of opportunity and multi-culturalism did not go down too well with some elements in the valley. So the second fashion show was accompanied by protests. It was preceded by a terror attack. Whenever a positive story comes out of Kashmir, a negative one imminently follows. Because of some elements, it is important to highlight a grim picture of Kashmir. On the day of the second fashion show, a territorial army soldier was shot in the valley. His name was Mohammed Saleem Akhoon. He was on leave. He had gone home to visit his family. To meet his six-year-old son, his nine-year-old daughter. To spend time with his wife. Terrorists attacked Akhoon at his home. They killed him and he was not the first soldier to be killed on leave. In 2020, Shakir Manzoor was killed on his way home. Manzoor too was a territorial army soldier. In June 2019, Manzoor Ahmad Baig was shot, again, at his home. He too was a soldier on leave. Those watching us from India will be familiar with the name-- lieutenant Umar Fayaz. He was just 22 and was abducted from a relative's home and killed. The young lieutenant Fayaz was also on leave. As was a soldier called Aurangzeb who too was killed the same year. For quashing the dreams of the youth.For harassing youngsters for daring to dream Bollywood.For killing local men in uniform to deter the youth from donning it. But this strategy isn't working anymore. Constructed fear has a limited shelf life. In Kashmir, it has expired. The people of Kashmir have decided to take control of their lives. To dream big. Kashmir today is a story of hope. Where fashion shows are not called off because a bunch of followers of some conservative cleric chose to protest. Today, theatres are flourishing in Kashmir. The valley is being celebrated on social media like never before. Yes, there are still challenges, there's no denying that. But there is also a clear wave of change. And this change is immune to politics and threats.

Less terrorism, more progress: Fashion shows organised in Kashmir to 'break stereotypes'

Iran's Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif has said that his government will take revenge for the damage caused to&nbsp;Natanz nuclear facility, blaming its regional arch-foe Israel for Sunday's incident.

Tehran has said the site was hit by "nuclear terrorism". 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-atomic-agency-claims-nuclear-facility-hit-by-terrorism-376886">Also read: Iran atomic agency claims nuclear facility hit by 'terrorism'</a> 
 
"The Zionists want to take revenge because of our progress in the way to lift sanctions ... they have publicly said that they will not allow this. But we will take our revenge from the Zionists," Zarif said.

Earlier, Iran's Atomic Energy Organisation said on Sunday that its Natanz nuclear facility was hit by a terrorist act. This claim was made hours after it had said that an "accident" had caused a power failure there.

The episode has come a day after Iran said it had started advanced uranium enrichment centrifuges at the site. This is a breach of its commitment under the 2015 nuclear deal.

Ali Akbar Salehi, the head of the Iran Atomic Energy Organisation (IAEO), condemned a "futile" act while urging the international community to "confront this anti-nuclear terrorism", &nbsp;in a statement carried by state television. 
 
He said the disruption at the Natanz facility that's home to thousands of gas centrifuges, showed there was an attempt to thwart both Iran's atomic progress and the ongoing diplomacy in Vienna, state TV reported.

(With inputs from agencies)

Iran's Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif has said that his government will take revenge for the damage caused to Natanz nuclear facility, blaming its regional arch-foe Israel for Sunday's incident.

Iran's Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif has said that his government will take revenge for the damage caused to Natanz nuclear facility, blaming its regional arch-foe Israel for Sunday's incident. Tehran has said the site was hit by "nuclear terrorism". Also read: Iran atomic agency claims nuclear facility hit by 'terrorism' "The Zionists want to take revenge because of our progress in the way to lift sanctions ... they have publicly said that they will not allow this. But we will take our revenge from the Zionists," Zarif said. Earlier, Iran's Atomic Energy Organisation said on Sunday that its Natanz nuclear facility was hit by a terrorist act. This claim was made hours after it had said that an "accident" had caused a power failure there. The episode has come a day after Iran said it had started advanced uranium enrichment centrifuges at the site. This is a breach of its commitment under the 2015 nuclear deal. Ali Akbar Salehi, the head of the Iran Atomic Energy Organisation (IAEO), condemned a "futile" act while urging the international community to "confront this anti-nuclear terrorism", in a statement carried by state television. He said the disruption at the Natanz facility that's home to thousands of gas centrifuges, showed there was an attempt to thwart both Iran's atomic progress and the ongoing diplomacy in Vienna, state TV reported. (With inputs from agencies)

'We will take our revenge from the Zionists': Iran blames Israel for Natanz incident

Afghanistan intelligence agency chief Ahmad Zia Saraj said on Sunday that Taliban attacks have increased by 24 per cent since the signing of the US-Taliban peace deal in February last year. Saraj added that the terrorist group has launched 20,600 attacks since last March.

Saraj was addressing the country's Parliamentary committee on internal security. He said that the Taliban had not made any changes in their ideology and that the Turkey conference will not have the expected results, TOLO news reported.&nbsp;

Siraj said that more than 4,500 Taliban and Daesh members were arrested between March 2020 to March 2021. Out of these, 221 were involved in targeted attacks and bombings.&nbsp;

"Our evaluation based on our information is that the Taliban has not changed, and the Turkey conference might be a conference like the one in Moscow in which some will attend and will return," Saraj said, as quoted by TOLO news.

Meanwhile, Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani has said he has clear plan for peace in the country but pointed out that the process should not be hasty.&nbsp;

"Our proposal for the transition from an imposed war to a just and permanent peace is very clear," Ghani said, referring to his proposed plan for peace.&nbsp;

"I will not go into details ... any proposals that come from outside, we have the capacity to proposed more inclusive and principled plans."

In February last year, the Taliban had committed to reducing violence as part of a peace agreement negotiated by the US in Doha. In addition to the mutual release of prisoners, the agreement was expected to launch the intra-Afghan talks and pave the way for ending the almost two-decade-long confrontation between Kabul and the Taliban.

(With ANI inputs) 
&nbsp;

Afghanistan intelligence agency chief Ahmad Zia Saraj said on Sunday that Taliban attacks have increased by 24 per cent since the signing of the US-Taliban peace deal in February last year.

Afghanistan intelligence agency chief Ahmad Zia Saraj said on Sunday that Taliban attacks have increased by 24 per cent since the signing of the US-Taliban peace deal in February last year. Saraj added that the terrorist group has launched 20,600 attacks since last March. Saraj was addressing the country's Parliamentary committee on internal security. He said that the Taliban had not made any changes in their ideology and that the Turkey conference will not have the expected results, TOLO news reported. Siraj said that more than 4,500 Taliban and Daesh members were arrested between March 2020 to March 2021. Out of these, 221 were involved in targeted attacks and bombings. "Our evaluation based on our information is that the Taliban has not changed, and the Turkey conference might be a conference like the one in Moscow in which some will attend and will return," Saraj said, as quoted by TOLO news. Meanwhile, Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani has said he has clear plan for peace in the country but pointed out that the process should not be hasty. "Our proposal for the transition from an imposed war to a just and permanent peace is very clear," Ghani said, referring to his proposed plan for peace. "I will not go into details ... any proposals that come from outside, we have the capacity to proposed more inclusive and principled plans." In February last year, the Taliban had committed to reducing violence as part of a peace agreement negotiated by the US in Doha. In addition to the mutual release of prisoners, the agreement was expected to launch the intra-Afghan talks and pave the way for ending the almost two-decade-long confrontation between Kabul and the Taliban. (With ANI inputs)

Taliban attacks increased by 24 per cent since peace deal

Iran's Atomic Energy Organisation said on Sunday that its Natanz nuclear facility was hit by a terrorist act. This claim was made hours after it had said that an "accident" had caused a power failure there.

The episode has come a day after Iran said it had started advanced uranium enrichment centrifuges at the site. This is a breach of its commitment under 2015 nuclear deal.

Ali Akbar Salehi, the head of the Iran Atomic Energy Organisation (IAEO), condemned a "futile" act, while urging the international community to "confront this anti-nuclear terrorism", &nbsp;in a statement carried by state television.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-defence-secretary-austin-in-israel-amid-iran-nuclear-talks-376830">US Defence Secretary Austin in Israel amid Iran nuclear talks</a>

The attack was carried out by "opponents of the country's industrial and political progress, who aim to prevent development of a thriving nuclear industry," he said, without specifying what country or entity might be behind the alleged sabotage.

IAEO spokesman Behrouz Kamalvandi had earlier reported an accident at the enrichment facility caused by a "power failure". &nbsp;No-one was injured and there was no radioactive release, the official Fars news agency reported, citing the spokesman.

Kamalvandi said there had been "an accident in part of the electrical circuit of the enrichment facility" at the Natanz complex near Tehran.

"The causes of the accident are under investigation and more details will be released later," he added, before the later statement put out by the agency's chief.

He did not say whether power was cut only in the enrichment facility or across other installations at the site. 
Malek Chariati, spokesman for the Iranian parliament's energy commission, took to Twitter to allege sabotage.

"This incident, coming (the day after) National Nuclear Technology Day, as Iran endeavours to press the West into lifting sanctions, is strongly suspected to be sabotage or infiltration," Chariati said.

The nuclear deal was struck by USA and other world powers with Iran in 2015. However, former US President Donald Trump unilaterally took USA out of it in 2018.

(With AFP inputs)

Iran's Atomic Energy Organisation said on Sunday that its Natanz nuclear facility was hit by a terrorist act. This claim was made hours after it had said that an "accident" had caused a power failure there.

Iran's Atomic Energy Organisation said on Sunday that its Natanz nuclear facility was hit by a terrorist act. This claim was made hours after it had said that an "accident" had caused a power failure there. The episode has come a day after Iran said it had started advanced uranium enrichment centrifuges at the site. This is a breach of its commitment under 2015 nuclear deal. Ali Akbar Salehi, the head of the Iran Atomic Energy Organisation (IAEO), condemned a "futile" act, while urging the international community to "confront this anti-nuclear terrorism", in a statement carried by state television. Also Read | US Defence Secretary Austin in Israel amid Iran nuclear talks The attack was carried out by "opponents of the country's industrial and political progress, who aim to prevent development of a thriving nuclear industry," he said, without specifying what country or entity might be behind the alleged sabotage. IAEO spokesman Behrouz Kamalvandi had earlier reported an accident at the enrichment facility caused by a "power failure". No-one was injured and there was no radioactive release, the official Fars news agency reported, citing the spokesman. Kamalvandi said there had been "an accident in part of the electrical circuit of the enrichment facility" at the Natanz complex near Tehran. "The causes of the accident are under investigation and more details will be released later," he added, before the later statement put out by the agency's chief. He did not say whether power was cut only in the enrichment facility or across other installations at the site. Malek Chariati, spokesman for the Iranian parliament's energy commission, took to Twitter to allege sabotage. "This incident, coming (the day after) National Nuclear Technology Day, as Iran endeavours to press the West into lifting sanctions, is strongly suspected to be sabotage or infiltration," Chariati said. The nuclear deal was struck by USA and other world powers with Iran in 2015. However, former US President Donald Trump unilaterally took USA out of it in 2018. (With AFP inputs)

Iran atomic agency claims nuclear facility hit by 'terrorism'

Bangladesh is reeling under the Islamist extremism, one that is threatening its economic development. 13 people have been killed in the violent protests in Dhaka and several Hindu temples have also been targeted. WION tells you more.

Rise of political Islam and Islamist terrorism in Bangladesh

Backdrop

Barely two months ago, India was facing a two-front threat from neighbours. An unexpected sequence of events followed, much to the surprise of many people both sides of Line of Control (LoC) with announcement of re-implementation of Ceasefire Agreement of 2003, by DGMOs of India and Pakistan. With ‘Let us bury the Past’ remark by General Bajwa, followed by pleasant exchanges for ‘conditional peace’ by both prime ministers and Pakistan’s announcement to reopen trade with India, and a quick U-turn making all strategists revisit reasons for such a gesture.

India-Pakistan relations depend on variety of factors arising from legacy of partition of British India, accession of state of Jammu and Kashmir (J&amp;K) to India, forced illegal occupation of part of J&amp;K by Pakistan, followed by a series of wars fought by the two countries.&nbsp;

The humiliating defeat in 1971 and independence of Bangladesh left permanent humiliation in military-led hierarchy of Pakistan, which turned towards religious fundamentalism, under late President Zia-ul Haque, determined ‘To bleed India with thousand cuts’. Nuclear weapons acquisition and fostering terror as a weapon for waging proxy war against India, with focus on Kashmir, remained single aim of Pakistan military, as a recipe to hold all levers of power, with former President Musharraf calling terrorists as strategic assets, propagating India as ‘existential Threat’. Neither the aim nor the focus of Pakistan has changed; hence its peace gesture need decoding and analysis.&nbsp;

What Makes Pakistan Talk about Peace with India?

Economic stress faced by Pakistan seems to be the most important reason for Pakistan to seek peace with India. The Kashmir obsession of Pakistan has led to over-expenditure in misadventures of its army, pushing it into a well-planned debt trap by China, besides picking up loans from many other countries and institutions, which it finds difficult to service. &nbsp;

Pakistan’s total external debt and liabilities rose to $113.8 billion in fiscal year 2020 and it had to pay approximately $12 billion in that year to service it. As other countries and monetary organizations ask for payback, Pakistan has no choice but to mortgage its sovereignty to China (which has loaned maximum), looking to gain territory, assets, resources and electricity, thus making it a colony of China.&nbsp;

The continued grey listing of Pakistan in Financial Action Task Force (FATF) has further added to its economic stress, shortage of foreign exchange, and borrowings beyond capacity leading to internal dissent, chaos and inadequate survival needs like food and water for the people. It has thrown up intense political opposition like People's Democratic Movement (PDM) adding political cost to its misadventure. The growing influence of Jihadis, and dissent of persecuted minorities is adding to internal disturbance, with Army also getting its fair share of public anger. It therefore makes perfect sense for Pakistan to get into temporary truce with India, reduce some of its expenses on LoC and repair its economy, before returning to business as usual on Kashmir. 
&nbsp; &nbsp; 
International Factors

Pakistan has tried to internationalise Kashmir issue in every possible forum and found itself isolated with nobody except China and Turkey standing by its cause. It also brought Pakistan into awkward relationships with Arab world. In fact, Saudi Arabia and UAE asking for their loan back from Pakistan came as a rude shock to it. &nbsp;Pakistan has therefore realised that India bashing is not helping its domestic sustenance, and it needs to reset its international relations to pull itself out of the financial crisis in the post-pandemic world. Pakistan, therefore seems to be quite keen in fast-tracking trade relations with India, quickly announcing some imports from India, notwithstanding political opposition to it. The engagement of US and allies with India, their intense competitive relations with China and frequent criticism of sponsoring of terrorists by Pakistan can also be seen as a factor for reset, although a minor one.&nbsp;

Has Pakistan modified its Thought Process?

With some authentic voices in India indicating its intention to reclaim the lost territory, the thought process in Pakistani military seems to have undergone slight modification. The abrogation of Article 370 by India in J&amp;K, certain proactive Indian responses like surgical strikes, Balakot strike, and existing relative peace in Kashmir, has convinced Pakistan, that its aim of annexation of Kashmir is unviable against the military might of India, although it will continue talking of reversal of autonomous status of Kashmir. Pakistan Army has now pitched its tone to defend every inch of its territory, thereby adopting a defensive stance. It finds it more practical to prepare for not losing the part of J&amp;K, which is in its illegal possession. The changes in status of Gilgit-Baltistan (GB) making it provisional province, demographic changes and Chinese presence in GB and POK to deter Indian actions, point towards that direction. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Have the reasons for confrontation Changed?

For China, Pakistan is a low-cost secondary deterrent/irritant to India, helpful in containing it. For Pakistan, China is a high-value security guarantee and therefore the Sino-Pak nexus continues to grow strong. In that context the rising number of Chinese in such areas, their investments in critical infrastructure development in terms of airstrips, roads, in Pakistan occupied Kashmir (POK) and GB is a concern for India. Pakistan is likely to continue with proxy war in Kashmir Valley, through terrorism, as a low-cost option, as it serves the interest of both of them. &nbsp;

Pakistan continues to be in illegal occupation of POK, GB, Shaksgam Valley, therefore the Indians' sovereign territory is yet to be restored; hence the possibilities of a long-lasting peace is a mirage. The CPEC, infrastructure development works in POK and GB, along with the change of demography in Indian territory, is something, which the optics of peace gestures cannot camouflage. &nbsp;

The kind of peace offers made by India and Pakistan clearly indicates that both sides are not ready to compromise their basic positions. &nbsp;Pakistan continues to link peace initiative with discussion on Kashmir, whereas India may not be keen to get into meaningful discussion, unless Pakistan shows some visible efforts in dismantling terror infrastructure and bringing perpetrators of terror to justice like Hafiz Saeed and Maulana Masood Azhar.&nbsp;

How long can this peace initiative last?&nbsp;

The fact that Pakistan made a U-turn in an announcement to open trade with India within 24 hours under internal pressure indicates the fragile nature of its peace gestures, and level of internal pressure in Pakistan, in relation to Kashmir. The irritants and differences between Pakistan and India have not undergone any major change. The peace gestures are good optics to buy some more time for economic revival, avoid distractions in combating pandemic, and reduce the level of internal public dissent to some degree. It is in the interest of both countries that ceasefire continues to remain in vogue, so that the innocent people residing both sides of LOC can have peaceful life.&nbsp;

India should not fall into the trap of peaceful gestures that camouflage the capacity building of terrorists, the build-up of Chinese in Pakistan, and much needed economic revival of Pakistan, and are made at the cost of taking a break from Indian threat. The fact that Pakistan’s decision-making is dependent on China is a factor, which the Indian decision-makers will have to take into account before any peace initiative Pakistan. While the peace gestures are essentials of vibrant diplomacy, but they have to be exercised with caution, as such gestures with Pakistan in past, have resulted in betrayal and now the factor of trust deficit with China also adds to the equation. While everyone will hope for longevity of ceasefire, but India cannot afford to slowdown its efforts on capacity building to face twin challenge, because one major terror attack can change the entire equation overnight.

(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

Backdrop Barely two months ago, India was facing a two-front threat from neighbours. An unexpected sequence of events followed, much to the surprise of many people both sides of Line of Control (LoC) with announcement of re-implementation of Ceasefire Agreement of 2003, by DGMOs of India and Pakistan.

Backdrop Barely two months ago, India was facing a two-front threat from neighbours. An unexpected sequence of events followed, much to the surprise of many people both sides of Line of Control (LoC) with announcement of re-implementation of Ceasefire Agreement of 2003, by DGMOs of India and Pakistan. With ‘Let us bury the Past’ remark by General Bajwa, followed by pleasant exchanges for ‘conditional peace’ by both prime ministers and Pakistan’s announcement to reopen trade with India, and a quick U-turn making all strategists revisit reasons for such a gesture. India-Pakistan relations depend on variety of factors arising from legacy of partition of British India, accession of state of Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) to India, forced illegal occupation of part of J&K by Pakistan, followed by a series of wars fought by the two countries. The humiliating defeat in 1971 and independence of Bangladesh left permanent humiliation in military-led hierarchy of Pakistan, which turned towards religious fundamentalism, under late President Zia-ul Haque, determined ‘To bleed India with thousand cuts’. Nuclear weapons acquisition and fostering terror as a weapon for waging proxy war against India, with focus on Kashmir, remained single aim of Pakistan military, as a recipe to hold all levers of power, with former President Musharraf calling terrorists as strategic assets, propagating India as ‘existential Threat’. Neither the aim nor the focus of Pakistan has changed; hence its peace gesture need decoding and analysis. What Makes Pakistan Talk about Peace with India? Economic stress faced by Pakistan seems to be the most important reason for Pakistan to seek peace with India. The Kashmir obsession of Pakistan has led to over-expenditure in misadventures of its army, pushing it into a well-planned debt trap by China, besides picking up loans from many other countries and institutions, which it finds difficult to service. Pakistan’s total external debt and liabilities rose to $113.8 billion in fiscal year 2020 and it had to pay approximately $12 billion in that year to service it. As other countries and monetary organizations ask for payback, Pakistan has no choice but to mortgage its sovereignty to China (which has loaned maximum), looking to gain territory, assets, resources and electricity, thus making it a colony of China. The continued grey listing of Pakistan in Financial Action Task Force (FATF) has further added to its economic stress, shortage of foreign exchange, and borrowings beyond capacity leading to internal dissent, chaos and inadequate survival needs like food and water for the people. It has thrown up intense political opposition like People's Democratic Movement (PDM) adding political cost to its misadventure. The growing influence of Jihadis, and dissent of persecuted minorities is adding to internal disturbance, with Army also getting its fair share of public anger. It therefore makes perfect sense for Pakistan to get into temporary truce with India, reduce some of its expenses on LoC and repair its economy, before returning to business as usual on Kashmir. International Factors Pakistan has tried to internationalise Kashmir issue in every possible forum and found itself isolated with nobody except China and Turkey standing by its cause. It also brought Pakistan into awkward relationships with Arab world. In fact, Saudi Arabia and UAE asking for their loan back from Pakistan came as a rude shock to it. Pakistan has therefore realised that India bashing is not helping its domestic sustenance, and it needs to reset its international relations to pull itself out of the financial crisis in the post-pandemic world. Pakistan, therefore seems to be quite keen in fast-tracking trade relations with India, quickly announcing some imports from India, notwithstanding political opposition to it. The engagement of US and allies with India, their intense competitive relations with China and frequent criticism of sponsoring of terrorists by Pakistan can also be seen as a factor for reset, although a minor one. Has Pakistan modified its Thought Process? With some authentic voices in India indicating its intention to reclaim the lost territory, the thought process in Pakistani military seems to have undergone slight modification. The abrogation of Article 370 by India in J&K, certain proactive Indian responses like surgical strikes, Balakot strike, and existing relative peace in Kashmir, has convinced Pakistan, that its aim of annexation of Kashmir is unviable against the military might of India, although it will continue talking of reversal of autonomous status of Kashmir. Pakistan Army has now pitched its tone to defend every inch of its territory, thereby adopting a defensive stance. It finds it more practical to prepare for not losing the part of J&K, which is in its illegal possession. The changes in status of Gilgit-Baltistan (GB) making it provisional province, demographic changes and Chinese presence in GB and POK to deter Indian actions, point towards that direction. Have the reasons for confrontation Changed? For China, Pakistan is a low-cost secondary deterrent/irritant to India, helpful in containing it. For Pakistan, China is a high-value security guarantee and therefore the Sino-Pak nexus continues to grow strong. In that context the rising number of Chinese in such areas, their investments in critical infrastructure development in terms of airstrips, roads, in Pakistan occupied Kashmir (POK) and GB is a concern for India. Pakistan is likely to continue with proxy war in Kashmir Valley, through terrorism, as a low-cost option, as it serves the interest of both of them. Pakistan continues to be in illegal occupation of POK, GB, Shaksgam Valley, therefore the Indians' sovereign territory is yet to be restored; hence the possibilities of a long-lasting peace is a mirage. The CPEC, infrastructure development works in POK and GB, along with the change of demography in Indian territory, is something, which the optics of peace gestures cannot camouflage. The kind of peace offers made by India and Pakistan clearly indicates that both sides are not ready to compromise their basic positions. Pakistan continues to link peace initiative with discussion on Kashmir, whereas India may not be keen to get into meaningful discussion, unless Pakistan shows some visible efforts in dismantling terror infrastructure and bringing perpetrators of terror to justice like Hafiz Saeed and Maulana Masood Azhar. How long can this peace initiative last? The fact that Pakistan made a U-turn in an announcement to open trade with India within 24 hours under internal pressure indicates the fragile nature of its peace gestures, and level of internal pressure in Pakistan, in relation to Kashmir. The irritants and differences between Pakistan and India have not undergone any major change. The peace gestures are good optics to buy some more time for economic revival, avoid distractions in combating pandemic, and reduce the level of internal public dissent to some degree. It is in the interest of both countries that ceasefire continues to remain in vogue, so that the innocent people residing both sides of LOC can have peaceful life. India should not fall into the trap of peaceful gestures that camouflage the capacity building of terrorists, the build-up of Chinese in Pakistan, and much needed economic revival of Pakistan, and are made at the cost of taking a break from Indian threat. The fact that Pakistan’s decision-making is dependent on China is a factor, which the Indian decision-makers will have to take into account before any peace initiative Pakistan. While the peace gestures are essentials of vibrant diplomacy, but they have to be exercised with caution, as such gestures with Pakistan in past, have resulted in betrayal and now the factor of trust deficit with China also adds to the equation. While everyone will hope for longevity of ceasefire, but India cannot afford to slowdown its efforts on capacity building to face twin challenge, because one major terror attack can change the entire equation overnight. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

Opinion | Pakistan seeking peace with India: Is it for real?

US Secretary of State Lloyd Austin was in Kabul over the weekend. He became the first member of the Biden cabinet to visit war-torn Afghanistan. This was a surprise trip. But the questions posed to Austin by journalists came as no surprise. They wanted to know if America will withdraw from Afghanistan.

As per America's agreement with the Taliban, American forces should withdraw from Afghanistan on 1st of May. That's the deal that the Trump administration had agreed to. Until now, Team Biden has kept its cards close to its chest. In Afghanistan, Austin said it was up to his boss Joe Biden to decide when the American troops will leave.&nbsp;

The US President has said that May 1 withdrawal would be tough. The Biden administration has tried to kick start the withdrawal process again. Earlier this month, the United States had called for a meeting of all stakeholders in Turkey. At the same time it is pushing for a wider, UN-led dialogue.

The US wants India involved.&nbsp;

Reportedly, Defence Secretary Austin discussed Afghanistan with the Indian leadership.

On Monday, Afghanistan's Foreign Minister Mohammad Haneef Atmar arrived in New Delhi.

It is a three-day working visit during which the Afghan foreign minister is expected to discuss the peace process with the Indian leadership. While the Biden administration might extend the deadline for withdrawal, &nbsp;It does look eager to withdraw. And going by all the signs, it looks like Washington wants New Delhi to be a part of the solution.

US Secretary of State Lloyd Austin was in Kabul over the weekend. He became the first member of the Biden cabinet to visit war-torn Afghanistan. This was a surprise trip.

US Secretary of State Lloyd Austin was in Kabul over the weekend. He became the first member of the Biden cabinet to visit war-torn Afghanistan. This was a surprise trip. But the questions posed to Austin by journalists came as no surprise. They wanted to know if America will withdraw from Afghanistan. As per America's agreement with the Taliban, American forces should withdraw from Afghanistan on 1st of May. That's the deal that the Trump administration had agreed to. Until now, Team Biden has kept its cards close to its chest. In Afghanistan, Austin said it was up to his boss Joe Biden to decide when the American troops will leave. The US President has said that May 1 withdrawal would be tough. The Biden administration has tried to kick start the withdrawal process again. Earlier this month, the United States had called for a meeting of all stakeholders in Turkey. At the same time it is pushing for a wider, UN-led dialogue. The US wants India involved. Reportedly, Defence Secretary Austin discussed Afghanistan with the Indian leadership. On Monday, Afghanistan's Foreign Minister Mohammad Haneef Atmar arrived in New Delhi. It is a three-day working visit during which the Afghan foreign minister is expected to discuss the peace process with the Indian leadership. While the Biden administration might extend the deadline for withdrawal, It does look eager to withdraw. And going by all the signs, it looks like Washington wants New Delhi to be a part of the solution.

US wants Indian involvement in Afghanistan

Jihadists aligned with Islamic State ambushed a Nigerian military convoy killing 15 soldiers and four militia fighters, reported AFP quoting military sources. The attack took place in Borno, a state in northeastern region of Nigeria. The convoy came under heavy attack from Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) fighters near Gudumbali in the Lake Chad region on Thursday, the sources said.

Jihadist conflict in Nigeria has killed 36,000 people so far and displaced hundreds of thousands in northeastern Nigeria. The conflict began more than a decade ago.

"We lost 15 soldiers and four civilian JTF (militia) in the terrorists' ambush in the forest near Gudumbali," a military officer, who asked not to be identified, told AFP. 
He said 13 government fighters, including 10 troops, were wounded in the ambush.

The 10-vehicle convoy was on its way to Gudumbali from the town of Kukawa for a military operation against the insurgents when it came under fire, said another military source, who gave the same toll.

On Saturday, ISWAP issued a statement, claiming responsibility for the ambush, according to the SITE jihadist monitoring agency.

ISWAP which split from the jihadist group Boko Haram in 2016, has become a dominant threat in Nigeria, attacking troops and bases while killing and kidnapping passengers at bogus checkpoints.

(With AFP inputs)

Jihadists aligned with Islamic State ambushed a Nigerian military convoy killing 15 soldiers and four militia fighters, reported AFP quoting military sources. The attack took place in Borno, a state in northeastern region of Nigeria.

Jihadists aligned with Islamic State ambushed a Nigerian military convoy killing 15 soldiers and four militia fighters, reported AFP quoting military sources. The attack took place in Borno, a state in northeastern region of Nigeria. The convoy came under heavy attack from Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) fighters near Gudumbali in the Lake Chad region on Thursday, the sources said. Jihadist conflict in Nigeria has killed 36,000 people so far and displaced hundreds of thousands in northeastern Nigeria. The conflict began more than a decade ago. "We lost 15 soldiers and four civilian JTF (militia) in the terrorists' ambush in the forest near Gudumbali," a military officer, who asked not to be identified, told AFP. He said 13 government fighters, including 10 troops, were wounded in the ambush. The 10-vehicle convoy was on its way to Gudumbali from the town of Kukawa for a military operation against the insurgents when it came under fire, said another military source, who gave the same toll. On Saturday, ISWAP issued a statement, claiming responsibility for the ambush, according to the SITE jihadist monitoring agency. ISWAP which split from the jihadist group Boko Haram in 2016, has become a dominant threat in Nigeria, attacking troops and bases while killing and kidnapping passengers at bogus checkpoints. (With AFP inputs)

Nigeria: Jihadist ambush kills 19 troops, says report

A terrorist commander of Pakistan Taliban was killed in an operation in South Waziristan by security forces, the military said on Friday.Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan`s (TTP) Nooristan alias Hasan Baba, a "high-value target", was killed in an exchange of fire during an operation at a terrorist hideout on Sharwangi, Tiarza in South Waziristan, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said.

According to the statement, he was involved in the killing of more than 50 security forces` personnel since 2007, Dawn reported"The most sought and wanted terrorist was [an] IED expert and master trainer," the press release said further.

Nooristan joined the TTP Baitullah Mehsud group in 2007 and has been involved in several terrorist attacks.He, along with other militants, carried out an attack on a check post in Manra Shawal Dargai in 2008, which resulted in the killing of three Frontier Corps personnel.

South Waziristan and North Waziristan, which are two of the seven former semi-autonomous tribal regions in Pakistan also known as FATA, served as headquarters for local and foreign terrorists until 2017.The army claimed it has cleared the mountainous region of terrorists following several operations to eliminate the TTP, according to Al Jazeera.

Successive operations have pushed the TTP towards neighbouring Afghanistan.Islamabad claims the group has now set up bases across the border to attack Pakistani security forces and civilians.&nbsp;

A terrorist commander of Pakistan Taliban was killed in an operation in South Waziristan by security forces, the military said on Friday.Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan`s (TTP) Nooristan alias Hasan Baba, a "high-value target", was killed in an exchange of fire during an operation at a terrorist hideout on Sharwangi, Tiarza in South Waziristan, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said.

A terrorist commander of Pakistan Taliban was killed in an operation in South Waziristan by security forces, the military said on Friday.Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan`s (TTP) Nooristan alias Hasan Baba, a "high-value target", was killed in an exchange of fire during an operation at a terrorist hideout on Sharwangi, Tiarza in South Waziristan, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said. According to the statement, he was involved in the killing of more than 50 security forces` personnel since 2007, Dawn reported"The most sought and wanted terrorist was [an] IED expert and master trainer," the press release said further. Nooristan joined the TTP Baitullah Mehsud group in 2007 and has been involved in several terrorist attacks.He, along with other militants, carried out an attack on a check post in Manra Shawal Dargai in 2008, which resulted in the killing of three Frontier Corps personnel. South Waziristan and North Waziristan, which are two of the seven former semi-autonomous tribal regions in Pakistan also known as FATA, served as headquarters for local and foreign terrorists until 2017.The army claimed it has cleared the mountainous region of terrorists following several operations to eliminate the TTP, according to Al Jazeera. Successive operations have pushed the TTP towards neighbouring Afghanistan.Islamabad claims the group has now set up bases across the border to attack Pakistani security forces and civilians.

Pakistan Taliban commander killed in security forces operation in South Waziristan: Report

The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) on Thursday said it would keep Pakistan on its terrorism financing “grey list”.

Global terror financing watchdog said&nbsp;that Pakistan failed to address its strategically important deficiencies, to fully implement the 27 point action plan that the watchdog had drawn up for the Islamic Republic. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/fatf-grey-list-takes-down-pakistan-by-usd-38-billion-report-366261">Also read: FATF grey-list ‘takes down’ Pakistan by USD 38 billion —&nbsp;Report&nbsp;</a> 
 
In an online press briefing from Paris, FATF President Marcus Pleyer said Islamabad had made progress but was yet to complete its action plan to overcome deficiencies in its combating of money laundering and terrorism financing.

The global watchdog had in October last year asked Pakistan, which has been on the FATF grey list over issues related to terror financing, to deliver on all 27 points by this February. 
 
"To date, Pakistan has made progress across all action plan items and has now largely addressed 24 of the 27 action items. As all action plan deadlines have expired, the FATF strongly urges Pakistan to swiftly complete its full action plan before June 2021," FATF said in a statement at the outcome of a plenary that began on Monday.

FATF said Pakistan should continue to work on implementing the three remaining items in its action plan to address its strategically important deficiencies, including "demonstrating effective implementation of targeted financial sanctions against all 1267 and 1373 designated terrorists, specifically those acting for or on their behalf."

The decision came on the final day of the FATF plenary, where governments around the world and partner organisations, including the UN, IMF and World Bank, discussed key money laundering and terrorist financing issues. 
Pakistan's continuation on the "grey" list means that it will not get any respite in trying to access finances in the form of investments and aid from various international bodies including International Monetary Fund (IMF). The latest decision will now further exacerbate its problems given its perilous financial situation.

Earlier, Dawn had reported that some European countries, especially the host France, had recommended to FATF to continue to keep Pakistan on the "grey list" and had taken the position that not all points had been fully implemented by Islamabad.

Pakistan has been on the FATF's grey list since June 2018 and the government was given a final warning in February 2020 to complete the 27 action points by June in the same year.

Pakistan is facing the difficult task of clearing its name from the FATF grey list. As things stand, Islamabad is finding it difficult to shield terror perpetrators and implement the FATF action plan at the same time.

A research paper by an Islamabad-based think tank recently revealed that Pakistan sustained a total of USD 38 billion in economic losses due to FATF' decision to thrice place the country on its grey list since 2008.

The research paper titled "Bearing the cost of global politics -- the impact of FATF grey-listing on Pakistan's economy" states that that grey-listing events spanning from 2008 to 2019, may have resulted in total GDP losses worth USD 38 billion, The Express Tribune reported.

The report published by Tabadlab said the losses are worked out on the basis of a decrease in consumption expenditures, foreign direct investment and exports.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) on Thursday said it would keep Pakistan on its terrorism financing “grey list”. Global terror financing watchdog said that Pakistan failed to address its strategically important deficiencies, to fully implement the 27 point action plan that the watchdog had drawn up for the Islamic Republic.

The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) on Thursday said it would keep Pakistan on its terrorism financing “grey list”. Global terror financing watchdog said that Pakistan failed to address its strategically important deficiencies, to fully implement the 27 point action plan that the watchdog had drawn up for the Islamic Republic. Also read: FATF grey-list ‘takes down’ Pakistan by USD 38 billion — Report In an online press briefing from Paris, FATF President Marcus Pleyer said Islamabad had made progress but was yet to complete its action plan to overcome deficiencies in its combating of money laundering and terrorism financing. The global watchdog had in October last year asked Pakistan, which has been on the FATF grey list over issues related to terror financing, to deliver on all 27 points by this February. "To date, Pakistan has made progress across all action plan items and has now largely addressed 24 of the 27 action items. As all action plan deadlines have expired, the FATF strongly urges Pakistan to swiftly complete its full action plan before June 2021," FATF said in a statement at the outcome of a plenary that began on Monday. FATF said Pakistan should continue to work on implementing the three remaining items in its action plan to address its strategically important deficiencies, including "demonstrating effective implementation of targeted financial sanctions against all 1267 and 1373 designated terrorists, specifically those acting for or on their behalf." The decision came on the final day of the FATF plenary, where governments around the world and partner organisations, including the UN, IMF and World Bank, discussed key money laundering and terrorist financing issues. Pakistan's continuation on the "grey" list means that it will not get any respite in trying to access finances in the form of investments and aid from various international bodies including International Monetary Fund (IMF). The latest decision will now further exacerbate its problems given its perilous financial situation. Earlier, Dawn had reported that some European countries, especially the host France, had recommended to FATF to continue to keep Pakistan on the "grey list" and had taken the position that not all points had been fully implemented by Islamabad. Pakistan has been on the FATF's grey list since June 2018 and the government was given a final warning in February 2020 to complete the 27 action points by June in the same year. Pakistan is facing the difficult task of clearing its name from the FATF grey list. As things stand, Islamabad is finding it difficult to shield terror perpetrators and implement the FATF action plan at the same time. A research paper by an Islamabad-based think tank recently revealed that Pakistan sustained a total of USD 38 billion in economic losses due to FATF' decision to thrice place the country on its grey list since 2008. The research paper titled "Bearing the cost of global politics -- the impact of FATF grey-listing on Pakistan's economy" states that that grey-listing events spanning from 2008 to 2019, may have resulted in total GDP losses worth USD 38 billion, The Express Tribune reported. The report published by Tabadlab said the losses are worked out on the basis of a decrease in consumption expenditures, foreign direct investment and exports. (With inputs from agencies)

In setback to Imran Khan, Pakistan stays in FATF ‘grey list’, given June deadline to implement action plan

Financial Action Task Force (FATF), the global terrorism watchdog is likely to continue to keep its eyes on Pakistan as it is unlikely to take it out of the 'grey list', said a news report. FATF keeps global money laundering and terrorism financing under check. FATF placed Pakistan on 'grey list' in June 2018 and asked it to implement a plan of action to curb money laundering and terror financing by the end of 2019.

FATF 's virtual plenary meeting is set to begin today (February 22). It will go on till February 25. A decision is likely to be taken on the fate of Pakistan in this meeting.

In the last plenary held in October 2020, the FATF concluded that Pakistan will continue in its 'grey list' till February 2021 as it has failed to fulfil six out of 27 obligations of the global money laundering and terrorist financing watchdog that include failure to take action against two of India's most wanted terrorists Jaish-e Mohammad chief Maulana Masood Azhar and Jamaat-ud-Dawah head Hafiz Saeed.

Azhar and Saeed are most wanted terrorists in India for their involvement in numerous terrorist acts, including 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks and bombing of a CRPF bus at Pulwama in Jammu and Kashmir last year.

Pakistani news outlet Dawn quoted an official source who claimed that Pakistan had complied with the remaining six recommendations and has submitted relevant details to FATF secretariat.

The paper, quoting a journalist covering the FATF said that some European countries, especially the host France, had recommended to the FATF to continue to keep Pakistan on the grey list and had taken the position that not all points had been fully implemented by Islamabad.

Other European countries are also supporting France, he said.

France was not happy with the recent response of Islamabad on the cartoon issue, he said.

Pakistan has not even posted a regular ambassador in Paris, he said, adding that diplomatic and economic relations between the two countries were not up to the mark.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-slams-frances-anti-radicalism-bill-warns-of-serious-repercussions-365264">Pakistan slams France's anti-radicalism bill, warns of 'serious repercussions'</a>

The US has also expressed concern over the acquittal the accused in American journalist Daniel Pearl's kidnapping and murder case.

It is feared that the US may also lobby for continuation of Islamabad on the grey list at least until June this year.

Pakistan's Supreme Court last month ordered release of British-born al-Qaeda terrorist Ahmed Omar Saeed Sheikh and his three aides in the 2002 Pearl murder case, a judgement denounced by the American journalist's family as "a complete travesty of justice." There was a major global uproar against the court decision.

(With PTI inputs)

Financial Action Task Force (FATF), the global terrorism watchdog is likely to continue to keep its eyes on Pakistan as it is unlikely to take it out of the 'grey list', said a news report.

Financial Action Task Force (FATF), the global terrorism watchdog is likely to continue to keep its eyes on Pakistan as it is unlikely to take it out of the 'grey list', said a news report. FATF keeps global money laundering and terrorism financing under check. FATF placed Pakistan on 'grey list' in June 2018 and asked it to implement a plan of action to curb money laundering and terror financing by the end of 2019. FATF 's virtual plenary meeting is set to begin today (February 22). It will go on till February 25. A decision is likely to be taken on the fate of Pakistan in this meeting. In the last plenary held in October 2020, the FATF concluded that Pakistan will continue in its 'grey list' till February 2021 as it has failed to fulfil six out of 27 obligations of the global money laundering and terrorist financing watchdog that include failure to take action against two of India's most wanted terrorists Jaish-e Mohammad chief Maulana Masood Azhar and Jamaat-ud-Dawah head Hafiz Saeed. Azhar and Saeed are most wanted terrorists in India for their involvement in numerous terrorist acts, including 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks and bombing of a CRPF bus at Pulwama in Jammu and Kashmir last year. Pakistani news outlet Dawn quoted an official source who claimed that Pakistan had complied with the remaining six recommendations and has submitted relevant details to FATF secretariat. The paper, quoting a journalist covering the FATF said that some European countries, especially the host France, had recommended to the FATF to continue to keep Pakistan on the grey list and had taken the position that not all points had been fully implemented by Islamabad. Other European countries are also supporting France, he said. France was not happy with the recent response of Islamabad on the cartoon issue, he said. Pakistan has not even posted a regular ambassador in Paris, he said, adding that diplomatic and economic relations between the two countries were not up to the mark. Also Read | Pakistan slams France's anti-radicalism bill, warns of 'serious repercussions' The US has also expressed concern over the acquittal the accused in American journalist Daniel Pearl's kidnapping and murder case. It is feared that the US may also lobby for continuation of Islamabad on the grey list at least until June this year. Pakistan's Supreme Court last month ordered release of British-born al-Qaeda terrorist Ahmed Omar Saeed Sheikh and his three aides in the 2002 Pearl murder case, a judgement denounced by the American journalist's family as "a complete travesty of justice." There was a major global uproar against the court decision. (With PTI inputs)

FATF set to decide Pakistan's fate in money laundering and terror financing

Sub-Saharan countries gathered in Chad on Monday for the opening of the 2-day G5 Sahel Summit. Chad called for international support to help the beleaguered Sahel as five nations and ally France began a summit on the future of their anti-extremist campaign.

G5 Sahel Summit: Chad calls for support to fight terrorism

An attack carried out by Taliban terrorists claimed lives of 16 Afghanistan securitymen and injure two others. The attack took place in Tap-e-Akhtar area in Kunduz province.

Rabbani Rabbani, member of the provincial council in Kunduz said that two security force members when taken hostage.

More details on the attack are not available so far. The attack comes amidst a sharp increase in violence in the country despite the ongoing efforts for peace.

(With ANI inputs)

An attack carried out by Taliban terrorists claimed lives of 16 Afghanistan securitymen and injure two others. The attack took place in Tap-e-Akhtar area in Kunduz province.

An attack carried out by Taliban terrorists claimed lives of 16 Afghanistan securitymen and injure two others. The attack took place in Tap-e-Akhtar area in Kunduz province. Rabbani Rabbani, member of the provincial council in Kunduz said that two security force members when taken hostage. More details on the attack are not available so far. The attack comes amidst a sharp increase in violence in the country despite the ongoing efforts for peace. (With ANI inputs)

16 Afghan security force members killed in Taliban attack

Even as the situation remains precarious in Syria, the United Nations Security Council discussed the issue with India pointing to the "politicization and militarization of the conflict" bringing "disastrous consequences".

India's envoy to United Nations TS Tirumurti said, "India supports the UN continuing its humanitarian relief operations through all possible channels, with the cooperation of the Syrian Government" and highlighted that it "is important to delink humanitarian assistance from progress on the political track." Tirumurti explained, "We believe that the noble and necessary cause of humanitarian assistance should always be bereft of politics."

This year marks 10 years since the conflict began in 2011. India had provided $12 million in humanitarian assistance to the Syrian government. Last year to fight the COVID pandemic, India sent a gift of 10 metric tonnes of medicines to Damascus.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/us-secretary-of-state-nominee-tony-blinken-says-india-has-been-a-bipartisan-success-story-357838">US Secretary of State nominee Tony Blinken says India has been a bipartisan success story</a>

Calling on the international community to "provide assistance to Syria in rebuilding its infrastructure, safeguarding people's livelihoods and fighting COVID-19", Tirumurti said, "we should be sensitive to the debilitating impact that sanctions continue to have on the lives of the common people of Syria."

India has provided scholarships to 1000 Syrian students to study in India. In December 2019, it organized an artificial limb fitment camp in Damascus which benefited over 500 Syrians. The Indian envoy expressed concerns over "terrorism emanating from Syria" spreading "far, even reaching parts of Africa" with "foreign fighters involved in the Syrian conflict having moved to other places as mercenaries" and the "humanitarian situation has worsened, further exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic."

During its previous term at the UNSC in 2011-12 under India's presidency, the top UN body adopted the first Presidential Statement on the crisis. &nbsp;Subsequently, the first resolution on Syria was adopted in March 2012, despite deep divisions among Council members, endorsing the six-point plan of the Joint Special Envoy of the United Nations and the League of Arab States, Kofi Annan.

Even as the situation remains precarious in Syria, the United Nations Security Council discussed the issue with India pointing to the "politicization and militarization of the conflict" bringing "disastrous consequences".

Even as the situation remains precarious in Syria, the United Nations Security Council discussed the issue with India pointing to the "politicization and militarization of the conflict" bringing "disastrous consequences". India's envoy to United Nations TS Tirumurti said, "India supports the UN continuing its humanitarian relief operations through all possible channels, with the cooperation of the Syrian Government" and highlighted that it "is important to delink humanitarian assistance from progress on the political track." Tirumurti explained, "We believe that the noble and necessary cause of humanitarian assistance should always be bereft of politics." This year marks 10 years since the conflict began in 2011. India had provided $12 million in humanitarian assistance to the Syrian government. Last year to fight the COVID pandemic, India sent a gift of 10 metric tonnes of medicines to Damascus. Also Read | US Secretary of State nominee Tony Blinken says India has been a bipartisan success story Calling on the international community to "provide assistance to Syria in rebuilding its infrastructure, safeguarding people's livelihoods and fighting COVID-19", Tirumurti said, "we should be sensitive to the debilitating impact that sanctions continue to have on the lives of the common people of Syria." India has provided scholarships to 1000 Syrian students to study in India. In December 2019, it organized an artificial limb fitment camp in Damascus which benefited over 500 Syrians. The Indian envoy expressed concerns over "terrorism emanating from Syria" spreading "far, even reaching parts of Africa" with "foreign fighters involved in the Syrian conflict having moved to other places as mercenaries" and the "humanitarian situation has worsened, further exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic." During its previous term at the UNSC in 2011-12 under India's presidency, the top UN body adopted the first Presidential Statement on the crisis. Subsequently, the first resolution on Syria was adopted in March 2012, despite deep divisions among Council members, endorsing the six-point plan of the Joint Special Envoy of the United Nations and the League of Arab States, Kofi Annan.

At UNSC, India highlights politicisation of Syrian conflict

Will Joe Biden lift the restrictions on visas? Will he be tough on China? Will he call out Pakistan for its state sponsorship of terrorism? WION's Palki Sharma tells you what India can expect from Joe Biden.

Gravitas: Here is what India can expect from Joe Biden

Iran’s Foreign Minister Javad Zarif has taken to Twitter to berate the US secretary of state, Mike Pompeo, after reports emerged that the top American diplomat has accused Tehran of having links with al-Qaeda.

In fiery remarks, Zarif called the allegations allegedly based on intelligence data "fictitious", adding that Mr “we lie, cheat, steal" Pompeo, "is pathetically ending his disastrous career with more warmongering lies."

"No one is fooled," Zarif tweeted. "All 9/11 terrorists came" from Pompeo's "favourite" Middle East "destinations" he added. "NONE from Iran."

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
From designating Cuba to fictitious Iran "declassifications” and AQ claims, Mr. “we lie, cheat, steal" is pathetically ending his disastrous career with more warmongering lies. 
 
No one is fooled. All 9/11 terrorists came from <a href="https://twitter.com/SecPompeo?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SecPompeo</a>'s favorite ME destinations; NONE from Iran.
— Javad Zarif (@JZarif) <a href="https://twitter.com/JZarif/status/1349018857067991046?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 12, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The majority of the perpetrators of the September 11, 2001, attacks in New York came from US-ally Saudi Arabia.

Earlier in on Tuesday, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said, without providing hard evidence, that al-Qaeda had established a new home base in Iran.

The New York Times reported in November that al-Qaeda’s Abu Muhammad al-Masri, accused of helping to mastermind the 1998 bombings of two US embassies in Africa, was gunned down by Israeli operatives in Iran. Iran denied the report, saying there were no al-Qaeda “terrorists” on its soil.

Pompeo told a news conference at the National Press Club in Washington that he was announcing publicly for the first time that al-Masri died on August 7 last year.

Pompeo said his presence in Iran was no surprise, and added: “Al-Masri’s presence inside Iran points to the reason that we’re here today ... al-Qaeda has a new home base: it is the Islamic Republic of Iran.”

"I would say Iran is indeed the new Afghanistan –- as the key geographic hub for Al-Qaeda -- but it's actually worse.&nbsp;

"Unlike in Afghanistan, when Al-Qaeda was hiding in the mountains, Al-Qaeda today is operating under the hard shell of the Iranian regime's protection."

(With inputs from agencies)

Iran’s Foreign Minister Javad Zarif has taken to Twitter to berate the US secretary of state, Mike Pompeo, after reports emerged that the top American diplomat has accused Tehran of having links with al-Qaeda.

Iran’s Foreign Minister Javad Zarif has taken to Twitter to berate the US secretary of state, Mike Pompeo, after reports emerged that the top American diplomat has accused Tehran of having links with al-Qaeda. In fiery remarks, Zarif called the allegations allegedly based on intelligence data "fictitious", adding that Mr “we lie, cheat, steal" Pompeo, "is pathetically ending his disastrous career with more warmongering lies." "No one is fooled," Zarif tweeted. "All 9/11 terrorists came" from Pompeo's "favourite" Middle East "destinations" he added. "NONE from Iran." From designating Cuba to fictitious Iran "declassifications” and AQ claims, Mr. “we lie, cheat, steal" is pathetically ending his disastrous career with more warmongering lies. No one is fooled. All 9/11 terrorists came from @SecPompeo's favorite ME destinations; NONE from Iran. — Javad Zarif (@JZarif) January 12, 2021 × The majority of the perpetrators of the September 11, 2001, attacks in New York came from US-ally Saudi Arabia. Earlier in on Tuesday, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said, without providing hard evidence, that al-Qaeda had established a new home base in Iran. The New York Times reported in November that al-Qaeda’s Abu Muhammad al-Masri, accused of helping to mastermind the 1998 bombings of two US embassies in Africa, was gunned down by Israeli operatives in Iran. Iran denied the report, saying there were no al-Qaeda “terrorists” on its soil. Pompeo told a news conference at the National Press Club in Washington that he was announcing publicly for the first time that al-Masri died on August 7 last year. Pompeo said his presence in Iran was no surprise, and added: “Al-Masri’s presence inside Iran points to the reason that we’re here today ... al-Qaeda has a new home base: it is the Islamic Republic of Iran.” "I would say Iran is indeed the new Afghanistan –- as the key geographic hub for Al-Qaeda -- but it's actually worse. "Unlike in Afghanistan, when Al-Qaeda was hiding in the mountains, Al-Qaeda today is operating under the hard shell of the Iranian regime's protection." (With inputs from agencies)

9/11 terrorists came from Pompeo's favourite Middle East destinations: Iran's Foreign Minister

Calling for "no ifs and buts" in the fight against terrorism, India's External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar on Tuesday gave an 8-point agenda at the United Nations Security Council for the "UN system to credibly address the menace of terrorism and ensure effective action".

Speaking at a video conference meet on International cooperation in combating terrorism marking 20 years since the adoption of Resolution 1373 (2001) EAM said,"It is time that all nations walk the talk and commit&nbsp;their actions to the goal of zero tolerance for terrorism."

EAM mentioned that "we must not countenance double standards in this battle.&nbsp;Terrorists are terrorists; there are no good and bad ones. Those who propagate this distinction have an agenda. And those who cover up for them are just as culpable."

UNSC Resolution 1373 was adopted on September 28, 2001 in the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks in New York. It calls on UN member states to implement measures to prevent and counter-terror at home and around the world.&nbsp;

During his address, both Pakistan and China got an earful.&nbsp;In a veiled reference EAM slammed&nbsp;Pakistan at UNSC, saying "there are also other States that are clearly guilty of aiding and supporting terrorism, and wilfully provide financial assistance and safe havens...the international community must collectively call out the latter and hold them accountable."

UN's 1267 committee lists largest numbers of Pakistanis as international terrorists. These include Masood Azhar, Hafiz Saeed, Zaki ur Rehman Lakhvi, many of whom responsible for terror attacks in India, including the 26/11 Mumbai terror attack.s&nbsp;

India's EAM pointed out in the 8 point plan of action that, "linkages between terrorism and transnational organised crime must be fully recognised and addressed vigorously", explaining that, "We, in India, have seen the crime syndicate responsible for the 1993 Mumbai bomb&nbsp;blasts not just given State protection but enjoying 5-star hospitality."

This is the first time India's EAM spoke at UNSC after India took over its membership on January 1, 2021 for a 2-year period.

On China, without mentioning its name, EAM said, "The practice of placing blocks and holds on listing requests without&nbsp;any rhyme or reason must end. This only erodes our collective credibility." Remember, Beijing&nbsp;had thwarted bids to list Masood Azhar as an international terrorist for 10 years.

In the plan of action, he listed "enlisting and delisting individuals and entities" under the UN sanctions regimes "must be done objectively, not for political or religious considerations", calling the "proposals in this regard merit due examination before circulation". This is significant even as Pakistan has been trying to use loopholes in the sanctions regime to get "basic expense" for listed international terrorists like Hafiz Saeed.

The focus was also on "preventing terrorists from accessing financial resources" with Financial Action Task Force (FATF) continuing to "identify and remedy weaknesses in anti-money laundering and counter-terror financing frameworks".

Tunisia&nbsp;chaired the meet, given it is heading the UN body for the current month. Other key speakers at the meet were Under-Secretary-General of the UN Office of Counter-Terrorism Vladimir Voronkov, Executive Director of the Counter-Terrorism Executive Directorate, Michèle Coninsx.&nbsp;Last week India's foreign secretary Harsh Shringla addressed a meet at the body highlighting New Delhi's commitment to the African continent.

The development comes at a time&nbsp;as India chairs the Taliban Sanctions Committee and the Counter Terrorism Committee for the year 2022. With India chairing the 2 committees, the spotlight is expected to increase on Islamabad's lack luster record on acting on cross-border terror.

Calling for "no ifs and buts" in the fight against terrorism, India's External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar on Tuesday gave an 8-point agenda at the United Nations Security Council for the "UN system to credibly address the menace of terrorism and ensure effective action".

Calling for "no ifs and buts" in the fight against terrorism, India's External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar on Tuesday gave an 8-point agenda at the United Nations Security Council for the "UN system to credibly address the menace of terrorism and ensure effective action". Speaking at a video conference meet on International cooperation in combating terrorism marking 20 years since the adoption of Resolution 1373 (2001) EAM said,"It is time that all nations walk the talk and commit their actions to the goal of zero tolerance for terrorism." EAM mentioned that "we must not countenance double standards in this battle. Terrorists are terrorists; there are no good and bad ones. Those who propagate this distinction have an agenda. And those who cover up for them are just as culpable." UNSC Resolution 1373 was adopted on September 28, 2001 in the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks in New York. It calls on UN member states to implement measures to prevent and counter-terror at home and around the world. During his address, both Pakistan and China got an earful. In a veiled reference EAM slammed Pakistan at UNSC, saying "there are also other States that are clearly guilty of aiding and supporting terrorism, and wilfully provide financial assistance and safe havens...the international community must collectively call out the latter and hold them accountable." UN's 1267 committee lists largest numbers of Pakistanis as international terrorists. These include Masood Azhar, Hafiz Saeed, Zaki ur Rehman Lakhvi, many of whom responsible for terror attacks in India, including the 26/11 Mumbai terror attack.s India's EAM pointed out in the 8 point plan of action that, "linkages between terrorism and transnational organised crime must be fully recognised and addressed vigorously", explaining that, "We, in India, have seen the crime syndicate responsible for the 1993 Mumbai bomb blasts not just given State protection but enjoying 5-star hospitality." This is the first time India's EAM spoke at UNSC after India took over its membership on January 1, 2021 for a 2-year period. On China, without mentioning its name, EAM said, "The practice of placing blocks and holds on listing requests without any rhyme or reason must end. This only erodes our collective credibility." Remember, Beijing had thwarted bids to list Masood Azhar as an international terrorist for 10 years. In the plan of action, he listed "enlisting and delisting individuals and entities" under the UN sanctions regimes "must be done objectively, not for political or religious considerations", calling the "proposals in this regard merit due examination before circulation". This is significant even as Pakistan has been trying to use loopholes in the sanctions regime to get "basic expense" for listed international terrorists like Hafiz Saeed. The focus was also on "preventing terrorists from accessing financial resources" with Financial Action Task Force (FATF) continuing to "identify and remedy weaknesses in anti-money laundering and counter-terror financing frameworks". Tunisia chaired the meet, given it is heading the UN body for the current month. Other key speakers at the meet were Under-Secretary-General of the UN Office of Counter-Terrorism Vladimir Voronkov, Executive Director of the Counter-Terrorism Executive Directorate, Michèle Coninsx. Last week India's foreign secretary Harsh Shringla addressed a meet at the body highlighting New Delhi's commitment to the African continent. The development comes at a time as India chairs the Taliban Sanctions Committee and the Counter Terrorism Committee for the year 2022. With India chairing the 2 committees, the spotlight is expected to increase on Islamabad's lack luster record on acting on cross-border terror.

At UNSC, EAM says 'no ifs and buts' in the fight against terrorism; Pakistan, China get earful

The Chief of Indian Army staff General MM Naravane said Pakistan continues to use terrorism as an instrument of state policy and India will continue to confront the menace effectively.

General Naravane: Pakistan continues to use terror as state policy

India has expressed its concerns on acts of terrorism in West Africa at the United Nations Security Council pointing out to increased activities of Boko Haram and&nbsp;Islamic State's West Africa Province (ISWAP).

Highlighting out how, "terrorism, drug trafficking, and organized crime have continued unabated", India's envoy to United Nations, TS Tirumurti said, "The terror attacks in Burkina Faso, particularly in regions bordering Mali and Niger, have again underscored the urgent need to intensify efforts to combat terrorism, which is spilling over into other countries and regions"

He explained, "The activities of Boko Haram in Nigeria and Lake Chad have not subsided either". Adding, "the recent terror attacks by the Islamic State's West Africa Province (ISWAP) are more brutal than those carried out by Boko Haram. ISWAP, supported by elements in West Asia and North Africa, is emerging as a radicalized and brutal terrorist entity, posing a serious threat to peace and stability in the region"

India was speaking at a security council meeting on West Africa and Sahel region. The council had taken up the latest report of the Secretary-General on the activities of the United Nations Office for West Africa and the Sahel (UNOWAS) between 23 June to 14 December 2020.

The Indian envoy called for "closer coordination in counter-terrorism cooperation in the region and its periphery, to counter the growth of terrorist entities effectively.". In fact, India has commenced counter-terrorism training in the region.&nbsp;

New Delhi also conveyed its deep condolences for the terror attack in Niger earlier this month that killed around 100 people and the&nbsp;deaths of French soldiers involved in Operation Barkhane in Mali.&nbsp;Operation Barkhane is an ongoing anti-insurgent operation by France and 5 countries of Sahel--G5 Sahel--Burkina Faso, Chad, Mali, Mauritania and Niger. The British and Estonia have also extended support to it.

The Indian envoy commended the "efforts of regional counter-terrorism initiatives such as G-5 Sahel Joint Force, and Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF), which is a model that illustrates the ownership taken by countries of the region for their collective security. The Council and the international community need to actively support these initiatives."

India expressed its concern vis a vis "piracy hotspot" of Gulf of guinea that has seen 17 incidents in last 6 months. Several Indian sailors have been victims of piracy and kidnappings in that region for which&nbsp;Tirumurti&nbsp;called for "urgent need to increase surveillance to ensure maritime security in the area, through increased international collaboration."

India has expressed its concerns on acts of terrorism in West Africa at the United Nations Security Council pointing out to increased activities of Boko Haram and Islamic State's West Africa Province (ISWAP).

India has expressed its concerns on acts of terrorism in West Africa at the United Nations Security Council pointing out to increased activities of Boko Haram and Islamic State's West Africa Province (ISWAP). Highlighting out how, "terrorism, drug trafficking, and organized crime have continued unabated", India's envoy to United Nations, TS Tirumurti said, "The terror attacks in Burkina Faso, particularly in regions bordering Mali and Niger, have again underscored the urgent need to intensify efforts to combat terrorism, which is spilling over into other countries and regions" He explained, "The activities of Boko Haram in Nigeria and Lake Chad have not subsided either". Adding, "the recent terror attacks by the Islamic State's West Africa Province (ISWAP) are more brutal than those carried out by Boko Haram. ISWAP, supported by elements in West Asia and North Africa, is emerging as a radicalized and brutal terrorist entity, posing a serious threat to peace and stability in the region" India was speaking at a security council meeting on West Africa and Sahel region. The council had taken up the latest report of the Secretary-General on the activities of the United Nations Office for West Africa and the Sahel (UNOWAS) between 23 June to 14 December 2020. The Indian envoy called for "closer coordination in counter-terrorism cooperation in the region and its periphery, to counter the growth of terrorist entities effectively.". In fact, India has commenced counter-terrorism training in the region. New Delhi also conveyed its deep condolences for the terror attack in Niger earlier this month that killed around 100 people and the deaths of French soldiers involved in Operation Barkhane in Mali. Operation Barkhane is an ongoing anti-insurgent operation by France and 5 countries of Sahel--G5 Sahel--Burkina Faso, Chad, Mali, Mauritania and Niger. The British and Estonia have also extended support to it. The Indian envoy commended the "efforts of regional counter-terrorism initiatives such as G-5 Sahel Joint Force, and Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF), which is a model that illustrates the ownership taken by countries of the region for their collective security. The Council and the international community need to actively support these initiatives." India expressed its concern vis a vis "piracy hotspot" of Gulf of guinea that has seen 17 incidents in last 6 months. Several Indian sailors have been victims of piracy and kidnappings in that region for which Tirumurti called for "urgent need to increase surveillance to ensure maritime security in the area, through increased international collaboration."

At UNSC, India expresses concern over terror acts by Boko Haram, Islamic State in West Africa

The Afghan government is investigating an air strike by its military in the southern province of Nimroz that local officials say resulted in the deaths of 14 civilians, as local residents brought their bodies to the provincial capital in protest. 
 
Government officials confirmed the Saturday night strike but said on Sunday that initial information showed the deaths were all of Taliban insurgents fighting Afghan security forces. 
 
The clashes came just as representatives of the Afghan government and the Taliban kicked off the second round of peace talks in the Qatari capital Doha on Saturday.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bomb-kills-three-in-afghan-capital-355739" hreflang="en">Bomb kills three in Afghan capital</a> 
 
"An air strike in Khashrod district has resulted in heavy casualties for the Taliban, and investigations into allegations that civilians have been killed are ongoing," the Afghan Ministry of Defence said in a statement on Sunday. 
 
A local government official told Reuters, on condition of anonymity, that the Afghan air force targeted a residential house where it suspected Taliban were present. 
 
The official said the 14 killed were all from one family.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/three-arrested-for-murder-of-afghan-election-activist-355582" hreflang="en">Three arrested for murder of Afghan election activist</a> 
 
Local residents told Reuters by phone that people from the area where the strike took place had brought the bodies to the centre of Nimroz`s capital, Zaranj, to prove that the deceased were not Taliban fighters. 
 
Taliban spokesman Qari Muhammad Yousuf Ahmadi also denied those killed were its own combatants, saying they were civilians, all members of one family, and included women and children. 
 
Continued violence has hastened international calls for a ceasefire between the Afghan government and the Taliban, whose representatives met on Saturday for a first session in a second round of peace talks, where contentious issues such as a ceasefire and power-sharing are expected to be discussed. 
 
Both sides, in separate statements on Saturday, said they discussed the agenda and that the meeting took place in a positive and amicable atmosphere.

The Afghan government is investigating an air strike by its military in the southern province of Nimroz that local officials say resulted in the deaths of 14 civilians, as local residents brought their bodies to the provincial capital in protest.

The Afghan government is investigating an air strike by its military in the southern province of Nimroz that local officials say resulted in the deaths of 14 civilians, as local residents brought their bodies to the provincial capital in protest. Government officials confirmed the Saturday night strike but said on Sunday that initial information showed the deaths were all of Taliban insurgents fighting Afghan security forces. The clashes came just as representatives of the Afghan government and the Taliban kicked off the second round of peace talks in the Qatari capital Doha on Saturday. Also read| Bomb kills three in Afghan capital "An air strike in Khashrod district has resulted in heavy casualties for the Taliban, and investigations into allegations that civilians have been killed are ongoing," the Afghan Ministry of Defence said in a statement on Sunday. A local government official told Reuters, on condition of anonymity, that the Afghan air force targeted a residential house where it suspected Taliban were present. The official said the 14 killed were all from one family. Also read| Three arrested for murder of Afghan election activist Local residents told Reuters by phone that people from the area where the strike took place had brought the bodies to the centre of Nimroz`s capital, Zaranj, to prove that the deceased were not Taliban fighters. Taliban spokesman Qari Muhammad Yousuf Ahmadi also denied those killed were its own combatants, saying they were civilians, all members of one family, and included women and children. Continued violence has hastened international calls for a ceasefire between the Afghan government and the Taliban, whose representatives met on Saturday for a first session in a second round of peace talks, where contentious issues such as a ceasefire and power-sharing are expected to be discussed. Both sides, in separate statements on Saturday, said they discussed the agenda and that the meeting took place in a positive and amicable atmosphere.

Afghanistan investigating if civilians killed in strike against Taliban

Malaysia’s former prime minister Mahathir Mohamad and the secretary-general of Palestinian group Hezbollah, Hassan Nasrallah, have been listed among “The Top 20 Most Dangerous Extremists Around the World” by a US-based Counter Extremism Project (CEP).

The CEP presented the list as a collection of extremists across a spectrum of ideologies and beliefs, whom it said were “considered a huge threat to international security.”

Nasrallah is named as the most dangerous in the list, ahead of Amir Muhammad Sa’id Abdal-Rahman al-Mawla, the self-styled “caliph” of terrorist group Islamic State. Mahathir is number 14 on the list.

The CEP cited Mahathir as anti-Semitic, a critic of the West, and highlighted his remarks about the October 2020 terrorist attack in France.

“Mahathir is not directly responsible for specific acts of violence. However, his controversial opinions have led to international condemnation as it was alleged Mahathir supported extremist violence against the West,” the CEP said.

The CEP was founded in 2014 by former US government officials with a particular focus on disrupting the IS terrorist group.

Malaysia’s former prime minister Mahathir Mohamad and the secretary-general of Palestinian group Hezbollah, Hassan Nasrallah, have been listed among “The Top 20 Most Dangerous Extremists Around the World” by a US-based Counter Extremism Project (CEP).

Malaysia’s former prime minister Mahathir Mohamad and the secretary-general of Palestinian group Hezbollah, Hassan Nasrallah, have been listed among “The Top 20 Most Dangerous Extremists Around the World” by a US-based Counter Extremism Project (CEP). The CEP presented the list as a collection of extremists across a spectrum of ideologies and beliefs, whom it said were “considered a huge threat to international security.” Nasrallah is named as the most dangerous in the list, ahead of Amir Muhammad Sa’id Abdal-Rahman al-Mawla, the self-styled “caliph” of terrorist group Islamic State. Mahathir is number 14 on the list. The CEP cited Mahathir as anti-Semitic, a critic of the West, and highlighted his remarks about the October 2020 terrorist attack in France. “Mahathir is not directly responsible for specific acts of violence. However, his controversial opinions have led to international condemnation as it was alleged Mahathir supported extremist violence against the West,” the CEP said. The CEP was founded in 2014 by former US government officials with a particular focus on disrupting the IS terrorist group.

Mahathir, Hezbollah secy general listed as world’s ‘most dangerous extremists’ by US-based group

Gunmen killed at least 11 mine workers at a remote coal mine in Balochistan on Sunday. The victims of the attack were from the minororty Shiite Hazra community. The ethnic Hazra community make up most of the Shiite population in Quetta, the capital in Balochistan. The region is Pakistan's largest and poorest region and rife with insurgency and violence.

"Dead bodies of the 11 miners have been taken to a local hospital," Khalid Durrani, a government official in the area, told AFP.

The attack took place before dawn on Sunday in far-flung and mountainous Machh area when the miners slept. Four injured miners are being treated at a local hospital.

A security official told AFP the attackers first separated the miners, tied their hands and feet, took them out into the hills and later killed them.&nbsp;

Both Durrani and the security official said the victims belonged to the Hazara community.

Durrani said the mine was deep in the mountains.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/over-40-more-arrested-over-attack-on-hindu-temple-in-northwest-pakistan-354175">Over 40 more arrested over attack on Hindu temple in Northwest Pakistan</a>

It was not clear how exactly the miners were killed, he told AFP.

The assailants fled after the attack. Both officials said police and members of the local paramilitary force were on the scene, where a search operation had been launched to trace the attackers.

No group has claimed responsibility.

In a tweet, Prime Minister Imran Khan condemned "the killing of 11 innocent coal miners in Machh" as a "cowardly inhumane act of terrorism".

Liaqat Shahwani, a spokesman for the provincial government, confirmed the incident and told private TV channel Geo that it was an act of terrorism.

Though Pakistan's mines are notorious for poor safety standards, such attacks against miners are rare.

(With AFP inputs)

Gunmen killed at least 11 mine workers at a remote coal mine in Balochistan on Sunday. The victims of the attack were from the minororty Shiite Hazra community. The ethnic Hazra community make up most of the Shiite population in Quetta, the capital in Balochistan.

Gunmen killed at least 11 mine workers at a remote coal mine in Balochistan on Sunday. The victims of the attack were from the minororty Shiite Hazra community. The ethnic Hazra community make up most of the Shiite population in Quetta, the capital in Balochistan. The region is Pakistan's largest and poorest region and rife with insurgency and violence. "Dead bodies of the 11 miners have been taken to a local hospital," Khalid Durrani, a government official in the area, told AFP. The attack took place before dawn on Sunday in far-flung and mountainous Machh area when the miners slept. Four injured miners are being treated at a local hospital. A security official told AFP the attackers first separated the miners, tied their hands and feet, took them out into the hills and later killed them. Both Durrani and the security official said the victims belonged to the Hazara community. Durrani said the mine was deep in the mountains. Also Read | Over 40 more arrested over attack on Hindu temple in Northwest Pakistan It was not clear how exactly the miners were killed, he told AFP. The assailants fled after the attack. Both officials said police and members of the local paramilitary force were on the scene, where a search operation had been launched to trace the attackers. No group has claimed responsibility. In a tweet, Prime Minister Imran Khan condemned "the killing of 11 innocent coal miners in Machh" as a "cowardly inhumane act of terrorism". Liaqat Shahwani, a spokesman for the provincial government, confirmed the incident and told private TV channel Geo that it was an act of terrorism. Though Pakistan's mines are notorious for poor safety standards, such attacks against miners are rare. (With AFP inputs)

Gunmen kill 11 miners in Balochistan

Iran hanged two men on Sunday for "terrorist acts" and another for murder and armed robbery, the judiciary's official Mizan Online news agency said.

The three were executed early Sunday morning in the southeastern Sistan-Baluchistan province.

Two were named as Hassan Dehvari and Elias Qalandarzehi, arrested in April 2014 after being found with "a large amount of explosives" and weapons.

The pair were convicted of the abduction, bombing, murder of security forces and civilians, and of working with the jihadist Jaish al-Adl ("Army of Justice") group, Mizan said.

Dehvari and Qalandarzehi were also arrested in possession of documents from Jaish al-Adl on "how to make bombs" as well as "takfiri fatwas", terms used by Iran's Shiite authorities to refer to decrees issued by Sunni jihadists.

Jaish al-Adl has carried out several high-profile bombings and abductions in Iran in recent years.

In February last year, 27 members of Iran's Revolutionary Guards were killed in a suicide attack claimed by the group.

Jaish al-Adl was formed in 2012 as a successor to Sunni extremist group Jundallah ("Soldiers of God"), which waged a deadly insurgency for a decade before it was severely weakened by the capture and execution of its leader Abdolmalek Rigi in 2010.

The third man executed was named as Omid Mahmoudzehi. He was convicted of armed robbery and the murder of civilians, Mizan said. 
&nbsp;

Iran hanged two men on Sunday for "terrorist acts" and another for murder and armed robbery, the judiciary's official Mizan Online news agency said. The three were executed early Sunday morning in the southeastern Sistan-Baluchistan province.

Iran hanged two men on Sunday for "terrorist acts" and another for murder and armed robbery, the judiciary's official Mizan Online news agency said. The three were executed early Sunday morning in the southeastern Sistan-Baluchistan province. Two were named as Hassan Dehvari and Elias Qalandarzehi, arrested in April 2014 after being found with "a large amount of explosives" and weapons. The pair were convicted of the abduction, bombing, murder of security forces and civilians, and of working with the jihadist Jaish al-Adl ("Army of Justice") group, Mizan said. Dehvari and Qalandarzehi were also arrested in possession of documents from Jaish al-Adl on "how to make bombs" as well as "takfiri fatwas", terms used by Iran's Shiite authorities to refer to decrees issued by Sunni jihadists. Jaish al-Adl has carried out several high-profile bombings and abductions in Iran in recent years. In February last year, 27 members of Iran's Revolutionary Guards were killed in a suicide attack claimed by the group. Jaish al-Adl was formed in 2012 as a successor to Sunni extremist group Jundallah ("Soldiers of God"), which waged a deadly insurgency for a decade before it was severely weakened by the capture and execution of its leader Abdolmalek Rigi in 2010. The third man executed was named as Omid Mahmoudzehi. He was convicted of armed robbery and the murder of civilians, Mizan said.

Three executed in Iran for 'terrorist' acts and murder

Taliban have abducted a passenger bus with dozens on board in Afghanistan's western province of Herat on Saturday, Sputnik reported citing Afghan broadcaster Shamshad News. According to the report, 45 passengers have been kidnapped by the terrorist group.

The attack unfolded at around 7 am local time. "A group of armed insurgents intercepted a passenger bus with dozens on board in Childokhtaran area along the Herat city-Turghundi highway at about 07:00 am (local time) and took it to an unknown location," Lal Mohammad Omarzai who serves as the district chief for Rubat-e-Sangi district told Xinhua.

The Taliban have not yet commented on the matter.

Taliban have abducted a passenger bus with dozens on board in Afghanistan's western province of Herat on Saturday, Sputnik reported citing Afghan broadcaster Shamshad News.

Taliban have abducted a passenger bus with dozens on board in Afghanistan's western province of Herat on Saturday, Sputnik reported citing Afghan broadcaster Shamshad News. According to the report, 45 passengers have been kidnapped by the terrorist group. The attack unfolded at around 7 am local time. "A group of armed insurgents intercepted a passenger bus with dozens on board in Childokhtaran area along the Herat city-Turghundi highway at about 07:00 am (local time) and took it to an unknown location," Lal Mohammad Omarzai who serves as the district chief for Rubat-e-Sangi district told Xinhua. The Taliban have not yet commented on the matter.

Taliban kidnap 45 bus passengers in Western Afghanistan

The Afghan Supreme Court has sentenced Mohammad Adil, the mastermind of the November 2020 Kabul University attack that claimed the lives of 22 people, to death.

In a statement on Friday, the Supreme Court said that five other collaborators of the attack were sentenced to various jail terms on charges of treason, transfer of explosive materials and cooperation with the Islamic State (IS) terror group which claimed responsibility, TOLO News.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/targeted-killings-to-be-discussed-in-afghan-peace-talks-top-official-354010" hreflang="en">Targeted killings to be discussed in Afghan peace talks: Top official</a>

Adil, a resident of Panjshir province, was recruited by Sanaullah, a member of the Haqqani Network terror group, according to Vice President Amrullah Saleh.

He was arrested just a few days after the attack.

Adil had been missing for the last three years and it was rumoured that he has gone abroad for "studies and war", Saleh added.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/what-to-know-as-troubled-afghan-peace-talks-enter-a-new-phase-353923" hreflang="en">What to know as troubled Afghan peace talks enter a new phase</a>

On November 2, 2020, at least 22 people were killed and over 40 others were wounded after two gunmen attacked the University.

The victims included 18 students — 16 from the Public Administration Faculty and two from the Law Faculty.

The Afghan Supreme Court has sentenced Mohammad Adil, the mastermind of the November 2020 Kabul University attack that claimed the lives of 22 people, to death. In a statement on Friday, the Supreme Court said that five other collaborators of the attack were sentenced to various jail terms on charges of treason, transfer of explosive materials and cooperation with the Islamic State (IS) terror group which claimed responsibility, TOLO News.

The Afghan Supreme Court has sentenced Mohammad Adil, the mastermind of the November 2020 Kabul University attack that claimed the lives of 22 people, to death. In a statement on Friday, the Supreme Court said that five other collaborators of the attack were sentenced to various jail terms on charges of treason, transfer of explosive materials and cooperation with the Islamic State (IS) terror group which claimed responsibility, TOLO News. Also read| Targeted killings to be discussed in Afghan peace talks: Top official Adil, a resident of Panjshir province, was recruited by Sanaullah, a member of the Haqqani Network terror group, according to Vice President Amrullah Saleh. He was arrested just a few days after the attack. Adil had been missing for the last three years and it was rumoured that he has gone abroad for "studies and war", Saleh added. Also read| What to know as troubled Afghan peace talks enter a new phase On November 2, 2020, at least 22 people were killed and over 40 others were wounded after two gunmen attacked the University. The victims included 18 students — 16 from the Public Administration Faculty and two from the Law Faculty.

Kabul University attack mastermind sentenced to death

An Anti-Terror Court in Lahore has awarded a sentence of 15 and a half years to Mumbai terror attack mastermind and banned Jamat-ud-Dawa (JuD) chief Hafiz Saeed in a terror funding case.&nbsp;

The Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) of Lahore also imposed a 200,000 Pakistani rupees (PKR) fine on Saeed.

The 70-year-old radical cleric has already been convicted for 21 years imprisonment in four terror financing cases of late.

On Thursday an Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) of Lahore sentenced five leaders of Jamat-ud-Dawa, including its chief Hafiz Saeed, in another terror financing case...For 15 and a half years," a court official said.

Now, Saeed will have to undergo collective imprisonment of over 36 years in five terror financing cases at the Kot Lakhpat Jail in Lahore. His punishment will run concurrently in these cases. There are reports that he is given "VIP protocol" in jail.

Saeed, an UN-designated terrorist on whom the US has placed a USD 10 million bounty, was arrested on July 17 last year in the terror financing cases.

He was sentenced to 11 years in jail by an anti-terrorism court in February this year in two terror financing cases.

In November, Saeed was sentenced to another 10 years in jail by an anti-terrorism court in two more terror financing cases.

The other four JuD leaders convicted by the court on Thursday are Hafiz Abdus Salam, Zafar Iqbal, JuD spokesperson Yahya Mujahid and Muhammad Ashraf.

Each convicted person has also been fined a PKR 200,000.

The ATC also handed down six-month imprisonment to Saeed's brother-in-law Abdul Rehman Makki in this case and imposed a fine of PKR 200,000 on him, the official said.

"Judge Ijaz Ahmed of ATC Court No 3 heard the case no 32/19 filed by the Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) in which the verdict has been announced after the statements of witnesses were cross-examined by Saeed and others' counsels -- Naseeruddin Nayyar and Mohammad Imran Fazal Gul Advocate," the official said.

He said that the JuD leaders including Saeed were brought to the court amid high security and the media was not allowed to cover the proceedings.

A total of 41 cases have been registered by the CTD against the JuD leaders, out of which 28 have been decided while the rest are pending in the ATC courts. Five cases have been decided against Saeed so far.

Saeed-led JuD is the front organisation for the Lashkar-e-Toiba (LeT) which is responsible for carrying out the 2008 Mumbai attack that killed 166 people, including six Americans.

The US Department of the Treasury has designated Saeed as a Specially Designated Global Terrorist. He was listed under the UN Security Council Resolution 1267 in December 2008.

The global terror financing watchdog Financial Action Task Force (FATF) is instrumental in pushing Pakistan to take measures against terrorists roaming freely in Pakistan and using its territory to carry out attacks in India.

The FATF had placed Pakistan on the grey list in June 2018 and asked Islamabad to implement a plan of action to curb money laundering and terror financing by the end of 2019 but the deadline was extended later on due to COVID-19 pandemic.

With Pakistan's continuation in the 'grey list', the country may find it difficult to get financial aid from the International Monetary Fund (IMF), the World Bank, the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the European Union, thus further enhancing problems for the cash-strapped nation.

(With inputs from agencies)

An Anti-Terror Court in Lahore has awarded a sentence of 15 and a half years to Mumbai terror attack mastermind and banned Jamat-ud-Dawa (JuD) chief Hafiz Saeed in a terror funding case.

An Anti-Terror Court in Lahore has awarded a sentence of 15 and a half years to Mumbai terror attack mastermind and banned Jamat-ud-Dawa (JuD) chief Hafiz Saeed in a terror funding case. The Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) of Lahore also imposed a 200,000 Pakistani rupees (PKR) fine on Saeed. The 70-year-old radical cleric has already been convicted for 21 years imprisonment in four terror financing cases of late. On Thursday an Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) of Lahore sentenced five leaders of Jamat-ud-Dawa, including its chief Hafiz Saeed, in another terror financing case...For 15 and a half years," a court official said. Now, Saeed will have to undergo collective imprisonment of over 36 years in five terror financing cases at the Kot Lakhpat Jail in Lahore. His punishment will run concurrently in these cases. There are reports that he is given "VIP protocol" in jail. Saeed, an UN-designated terrorist on whom the US has placed a USD 10 million bounty, was arrested on July 17 last year in the terror financing cases. He was sentenced to 11 years in jail by an anti-terrorism court in February this year in two terror financing cases. In November, Saeed was sentenced to another 10 years in jail by an anti-terrorism court in two more terror financing cases. The other four JuD leaders convicted by the court on Thursday are Hafiz Abdus Salam, Zafar Iqbal, JuD spokesperson Yahya Mujahid and Muhammad Ashraf. Each convicted person has also been fined a PKR 200,000. The ATC also handed down six-month imprisonment to Saeed's brother-in-law Abdul Rehman Makki in this case and imposed a fine of PKR 200,000 on him, the official said. "Judge Ijaz Ahmed of ATC Court No 3 heard the case no 32/19 filed by the Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) in which the verdict has been announced after the statements of witnesses were cross-examined by Saeed and others' counsels -- Naseeruddin Nayyar and Mohammad Imran Fazal Gul Advocate," the official said. He said that the JuD leaders including Saeed were brought to the court amid high security and the media was not allowed to cover the proceedings. A total of 41 cases have been registered by the CTD against the JuD leaders, out of which 28 have been decided while the rest are pending in the ATC courts. Five cases have been decided against Saeed so far. Saeed-led JuD is the front organisation for the Lashkar-e-Toiba (LeT) which is responsible for carrying out the 2008 Mumbai attack that killed 166 people, including six Americans. The US Department of the Treasury has designated Saeed as a Specially Designated Global Terrorist. He was listed under the UN Security Council Resolution 1267 in December 2008. The global terror financing watchdog Financial Action Task Force (FATF) is instrumental in pushing Pakistan to take measures against terrorists roaming freely in Pakistan and using its territory to carry out attacks in India. The FATF had placed Pakistan on the grey list in June 2018 and asked Islamabad to implement a plan of action to curb money laundering and terror financing by the end of 2019 but the deadline was extended later on due to COVID-19 pandemic. With Pakistan's continuation in the 'grey list', the country may find it difficult to get financial aid from the International Monetary Fund (IMF), the World Bank, the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the European Union, thus further enhancing problems for the cash-strapped nation. (With inputs from agencies)

JuD chief Hafiz Saeed sentenced to over 15 years in jail by Pakistan court

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