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

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

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

Afghan president replaces defence minister as Taliban gains ground

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

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

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

Afghan security forces eliminate 258 Taliban terrorists in last 24 hrs

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A minivan carrying civilian passengers in northwest Afghanistan was hit by a roadside bomb, leaving at least 11 passengers dead, including three children, an Afghan official said on Sunday.

The minivan fell into a valley with the wave of the explosion on Saturday, said Badghis provincial Gov Hesamuddin Shams, adding that rescuers were still searching for bodies in the valley.

No one immediately claimed responsibility for the explosion but the provincial government accuses the Taliban of placing the bomb to target security forces. There was no immediate response from the Taliban.&nbsp;

A minivan carrying civilian passengers in northwest Afghanistan was hit by a roadside bomb, leaving at least 11 passengers dead, including three children, an Afghan official said on Sunday.

A minivan carrying civilian passengers in northwest Afghanistan was hit by a roadside bomb, leaving at least 11 passengers dead, including three children, an Afghan official said on Sunday. The minivan fell into a valley with the wave of the explosion on Saturday, said Badghis provincial Gov Hesamuddin Shams, adding that rescuers were still searching for bodies in the valley. No one immediately claimed responsibility for the explosion but the provincial government accuses the Taliban of placing the bomb to target security forces. There was no immediate response from the Taliban.

Afghan official: 11 killed in roadside bombing in north

Myanmar poet Khet Thi, whose works declare resistance to the ruling junta, has died in detention and his body was returned with the organs removed, his family said.

A spokesperson for the junta did not answer calls to request comment on the death of Khet Thi, who had penned the line “They shoot in the head, but they don’t know the revolution is in the heart.” His Facebook page said he was 45.

Khet Thi’s wife said both of them were taken for interrogation on Saturday by armed soldiers and police in the central town of Shwebo, in the Sagaing region – a centre of resistance to the coup in which elected leader Aung San Suu Kyi was ousted.

“I was interrogated. So was he. They said he was at the interrogation centre. But he didn’t come back, only his body,” his wife, Chaw Su, told BBC Burmese language news.

“They called me in the morning and told me to meet him at the hospital in Monywa. I thought it was just for a broken arm or something … But when I arrived here, he was at the morgue and his internal organs were taken out,” she said.

She had been told at the hospital he had a heart problem, but had not bothered to read the death certificate because she was sure it would not be true, Chaw Su said. Reuters was unable to reach the hospital for comment.

Chaw Su said the army had planned to bury him but that she pleaded with them for the body. She did not say how she knew her husband’s organs had been removed.

“He died at the hospital after being tortured in the interrogation centre,” the Assistance Association for Political Prisoners activist group said in a bulletin that put the toll of civilians killed since the coup at 780.

The group, which monitors details of killings, did not identify the source of its information.

Khet Thi was at least the third poet to die during protests since the 1 February coup. Poet K Za Win, 39, was shot dead during a protest in Monywa in early March.

Cultural figures and celebrities have been prominent supporters of the opposition to coup with protests daily in different parts of the southeast Asian country in spite of the killings and thousands of arrests.

Khet Thi had been an engineer before quitting his job in 2012 to focus on his poetry and to support himself by making and selling ice cream and cakes.

“I don’t want to be a hero, I don’t want to be a martyr, I don’t want to be a weakling, I don’t want to be a fool,” he wrote two weeks after the coup. “I don’t want to support injustice. If I have only a minute to live, I want my conscience to be clean for that minute.”

More recently, he wrote that he was a guitar player, a cake baker and a poet – not someone who could fire a gun. But he implied his attitude was changing.

“My people are being shot and I can only throwback poems,” he wrote. “But when you are sure your voice is not enough, then you need to choose a gun carefully. I will shoot.”

Myanmar poet Khet Thi, whose works declare resistance to the ruling junta, has died in detention and his body was returned with the organs removed, his family said.

Myanmar poet Khet Thi, whose works declare resistance to the ruling junta, has died in detention and his body was returned with the organs removed, his family said. A spokesperson for the junta did not answer calls to request comment on the death of Khet Thi, who had penned the line “They shoot in the head, but they don’t know the revolution is in the heart.” His Facebook page said he was 45. Khet Thi’s wife said both of them were taken for interrogation on Saturday by armed soldiers and police in the central town of Shwebo, in the Sagaing region – a centre of resistance to the coup in which elected leader Aung San Suu Kyi was ousted. “I was interrogated. So was he. They said he was at the interrogation centre. But he didn’t come back, only his body,” his wife, Chaw Su, told BBC Burmese language news. “They called me in the morning and told me to meet him at the hospital in Monywa. I thought it was just for a broken arm or something … But when I arrived here, he was at the morgue and his internal organs were taken out,” she said. She had been told at the hospital he had a heart problem, but had not bothered to read the death certificate because she was sure it would not be true, Chaw Su said. Reuters was unable to reach the hospital for comment. Chaw Su said the army had planned to bury him but that she pleaded with them for the body. She did not say how she knew her husband’s organs had been removed. “He died at the hospital after being tortured in the interrogation centre,” the Assistance Association for Political Prisoners activist group said in a bulletin that put the toll of civilians killed since the coup at 780. The group, which monitors details of killings, did not identify the source of its information. Khet Thi was at least the third poet to die during protests since the 1 February coup. Poet K Za Win, 39, was shot dead during a protest in Monywa in early March. Cultural figures and celebrities have been prominent supporters of the opposition to coup with protests daily in different parts of the southeast Asian country in spite of the killings and thousands of arrests. Khet Thi had been an engineer before quitting his job in 2012 to focus on his poetry and to support himself by making and selling ice cream and cakes. “I don’t want to be a hero, I don’t want to be a martyr, I don’t want to be a weakling, I don’t want to be a fool,” he wrote two weeks after the coup. “I don’t want to support injustice. If I have only a minute to live, I want my conscience to be clean for that minute.” More recently, he wrote that he was a guitar player, a cake baker and a poet – not someone who could fire a gun. But he implied his attitude was changing. “My people are being shot and I can only throwback poems,” he wrote. “But when you are sure your voice is not enough, then you need to choose a gun carefully. I will shoot.”

Body of arrested Myanmar poet Khet Thi returned to family with organs missing

Myanmar's military rulers have approved new investment in projects worth nearly $2.8 billion, including a liquefied natural gas (LNG) power plant that will cost $2.5 billion, the country's investment body said.

Approvals for 15 projects were given on Friday by the Myanmar Investment Commission, according to a statement on the website of the Directorate of Investment and Company Administration.

The announcement comes with much of Myanmar's economy paralysed by protests and strikes since the army seized power on February 1. International credit rating agency Fitch Solutions has forecast the economy will contract by 20 per cent this year.

In addition to the plant to generate power for local needs, other projects approved included for livestock, manufacturing and services sectors, the statement said.

It did not give details of the companies behind the projects or which countries they are from. The biggest investors in Myanmar in recent years have been China, Singapore and Thailand although much of the investment from Singapore has been channelled from elsewhere.

Most of Myanmar's electric power is currently generated from hydroelectric projects, but LNG has been seen as increasingly important for a country whose economy had boomed during a decade of democratic reforms, leading to erratic electricity supplies.

Myanmar's military rulers have approved new investment in projects worth nearly $2.8 billion, including a liquefied natural gas (LNG) power plant that will cost $2.

Myanmar's military rulers have approved new investment in projects worth nearly $2.8 billion, including a liquefied natural gas (LNG) power plant that will cost $2.5 billion, the country's investment body said. Approvals for 15 projects were given on Friday by the Myanmar Investment Commission, according to a statement on the website of the Directorate of Investment and Company Administration. The announcement comes with much of Myanmar's economy paralysed by protests and strikes since the army seized power on February 1. International credit rating agency Fitch Solutions has forecast the economy will contract by 20 per cent this year. In addition to the plant to generate power for local needs, other projects approved included for livestock, manufacturing and services sectors, the statement said. It did not give details of the companies behind the projects or which countries they are from. The biggest investors in Myanmar in recent years have been China, Singapore and Thailand although much of the investment from Singapore has been channelled from elsewhere. Most of Myanmar's electric power is currently generated from hydroelectric projects, but LNG has been seen as increasingly important for a country whose economy had boomed during a decade of democratic reforms, leading to erratic electricity supplies.

Myanmar's junta approves $2.8 billion investment, including gas power plant

Myanmar's military rulers have branded a rival National Unity Government a terrorist group and blamed it for bombings, arson and killings, state-controlled media said on Saturday.

Myanmar's army has struggled to impose order since seizing power on February&nbsp;1 and detaining elected leader Aung San Suu Kyi.

Bombings are reported daily and local militias have been formed to confront the army while anti-junta protests have not stopped across the Southeast Asian country and strikes by opponents of the coup have paralysed the economy.

The National Unity Government (NUG), which operates undercover and itself describes the army as a terrorist force, announced this week that it would set up a People's Defence Force.

"Their acts caused so much terrorism in many places," state television MRTV said, announcing that the NUG, a committee of ousted lawmakers known as the CRPH and the new force would all now be covered by the anti-terrorism law.

"There were bombs, fires, murder and threats to destroy the administrative mechanism of the government," the announcement said.

The anti-terrorism law bans not only membership of the groups, but also any contact with them. The junta had previously accused its opponents of treason.

Protesters marched against the junta in dozens of places on Saturday. At least 774 civilians have been killed by security forces and 3,778 are detained, according to the Assistance Association for Political Prisoners activist group.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmars-anti-junta-unity-government-says-it-has-formed-defence-force-383019">Myanmar's anti-junta unity government says it has formed defence force</a>

The junta disputes those figures and says at least two dozen members of the security forces have been killed in protests.

Fighting has also flared on Myanmar's periphery with ethnic armies that have been fighting for decades and some of which have rallied behind the protesters. State television said the army had advanced against the Kachin Independence Army in northern Myanmar, but there was no independent confirmation.

In western Myanmar, the newly formed Chinland Defence Force said it had overrun an army camp. The army made no comment on the report.

Myanmar's army took power alleging fraud in a November election that was swept by the party of Suu Kyi, who fought for democracy for decades before tentative reforms began a decade ago. The electoral commission had rejected the army's complaints.

Myanmar's military rulers have branded a rival National Unity Government a terrorist group and blamed it for bombings, arson and killings, state-controlled media said on Saturday.

Myanmar's military rulers have branded a rival National Unity Government a terrorist group and blamed it for bombings, arson and killings, state-controlled media said on Saturday. Myanmar's army has struggled to impose order since seizing power on February 1 and detaining elected leader Aung San Suu Kyi. Bombings are reported daily and local militias have been formed to confront the army while anti-junta protests have not stopped across the Southeast Asian country and strikes by opponents of the coup have paralysed the economy. The National Unity Government (NUG), which operates undercover and itself describes the army as a terrorist force, announced this week that it would set up a People's Defence Force. "Their acts caused so much terrorism in many places," state television MRTV said, announcing that the NUG, a committee of ousted lawmakers known as the CRPH and the new force would all now be covered by the anti-terrorism law. "There were bombs, fires, murder and threats to destroy the administrative mechanism of the government," the announcement said. The anti-terrorism law bans not only membership of the groups, but also any contact with them. The junta had previously accused its opponents of treason. Protesters marched against the junta in dozens of places on Saturday. At least 774 civilians have been killed by security forces and 3,778 are detained, according to the Assistance Association for Political Prisoners activist group. Also read | Myanmar's anti-junta unity government says it has formed defence force The junta disputes those figures and says at least two dozen members of the security forces have been killed in protests. Fighting has also flared on Myanmar's periphery with ethnic armies that have been fighting for decades and some of which have rallied behind the protesters. State television said the army had advanced against the Kachin Independence Army in northern Myanmar, but there was no independent confirmation. In western Myanmar, the newly formed Chinland Defence Force said it had overrun an army camp. The army made no comment on the report. Myanmar's army took power alleging fraud in a November election that was swept by the party of Suu Kyi, who fought for democracy for decades before tentative reforms began a decade ago. The electoral commission had rejected the army's complaints.

Myanmar's junta brands rival government a terrorist group

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

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

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

Iraq: Jihadist attacks claim 18 lives

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

Indian armed forces have completely wiped out the dangerous terrorist group Ansar Gazwat-ul-Hind (AGuH) in two different operations in the Shopian and Pulwama districts of South Kashmir in the last 24 hours.

The encounter at Shopian started on Thursday evening and ended on Friday with the killing of five terrorists. Two terrorists, including the Chief of AGuH Imtiyaz Shah, were killed in a second operation at Tral in Pulwama district on Friday.

Police sources said both the operations at Shopian and Tral in South Kashmir are over now.

A large number of arms and ammunition, including seven AK rifles and two pistols, have been recovered from the slain terrorists.

"Both the ongoing operations at Shopian and Tral are over. Five terrorists in first and two in the second operation neutralised. Both the terrorist groups are from the same outfit.

"Seven AK and two pistols recovered.

"With these two encounters and elimination of seven terrorists, the terrorist group AGH (Ansar Gazwat-ul-Hind) fully wiped out once again," Dilbag Singh, Director General of Police, J&amp;K said

(With inputs from agencies).

Indian armed forces have completely wiped out the dangerous terrorist group Ansar Gazwat-ul-Hind (AGuH) in two different operations in the Shopian and Pulwama districts of South Kashmir in the last 24 hours.

Indian armed forces have completely wiped out the dangerous terrorist group Ansar Gazwat-ul-Hind (AGuH) in two different operations in the Shopian and Pulwama districts of South Kashmir in the last 24 hours. The encounter at Shopian started on Thursday evening and ended on Friday with the killing of five terrorists. Two terrorists, including the Chief of AGuH Imtiyaz Shah, were killed in a second operation at Tral in Pulwama district on Friday. Police sources said both the operations at Shopian and Tral in South Kashmir are over now. A large number of arms and ammunition, including seven AK rifles and two pistols, have been recovered from the slain terrorists. "Both the ongoing operations at Shopian and Tral are over. Five terrorists in first and two in the second operation neutralised. Both the terrorist groups are from the same outfit. "Seven AK and two pistols recovered. "With these two encounters and elimination of seven terrorists, the terrorist group AGH (Ansar Gazwat-ul-Hind) fully wiped out once again," Dilbag Singh, Director General of Police, J&K said (With inputs from agencies).

Seven terrorists killed by security forces, AGuH terror outfit wiped out in J&K 

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

Donald Trump's administration has redesignated Cuba as a state sponsor of terrorism. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo announced to reverse the Obama-era decision.

US announces designation of Cuba as a terror state

Tensions are escalating in central Mali. Some people were killed in a French airstrike this weekend. France says they were terrorists. The locals say it was a wedding party.

Tensions are escalating in central Mali. Some people were killed in a French airstrike this weekend. France says they were terrorists. The locals say it was a wedding party. Did a French airstrike kill innocent civilians in Mali? A controversy has erupted over an operation that happened on Sunday. The French military conducted an air raid. Paris says dozens of fighters were killed. But the locals say a wedding party was hit. Reports say more than 20 people including children have died. Villagers in Bounti say a lone helicopter opened fire in broad daylight. But, the French military has rejected the claims. The military campaign in mali is getting complicated for France. It had sent its forces into the former colony eight years ago. This is after Islamists took control of cities in the north. The mission was supposed to last barely a few weeks. Now, it's an unending battle. WATCH| × The terrorists are spread across a vast sweep of land south of the Sahara. Better known as the Sahel. The region includes mali, chad, niger, Burkina Faso and Mauritania. The Sahel has now suffered repeated attacks by terrorists. Linked to the Al Qaeda and the Islamic state. More than 10 thousand Western Africans have died. Over a million, have fled their homes since the war began. The losses --- keep mounting. Recently five French soldiers were killed in different attacks. Paris had deployed 600 more troops to this region last year. Reports say it's mulling a withdrawal. The remaining troops could be pulled out ahead of the French presidential election in 2022. The situation here is already fragile. In a village in Niger, 100 people have died. The attack was one of the deadliest in recent days. Niger's prime minister has vowed to punish the terrorists. The French defence minister has said that his forces are not destined to stay forever in Sahel. But, the recent spike in tensions --- might complicate the french exit strategy.

Wedding party or terrorists? French air strikes escalate tensions in Mali

In April, the high court had heard the appeals of Sheikh, Fahad Naseem, Sheikh Adil and Salman Saqib 18 years after they were sentenced and acquitted Sheikh, Saqib and Naseem.

Sindh High court orders immediate release of terrorist Omar Saeed Sheikh

As many as twelve terrorists have surrendered during live encounters with security forces this year, said Vijay Kumar, Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kashmir.

Earlier today, two local terrorists affiliated with terrorist organisation Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) surrendered on appeal of families during the encounter with security forces in Kulgam.&nbsp;

"Two terrorists of LeT surrendered during the live encounter at Kulgam. So far 12 terrorists have surrendered during live encounters with security forces this year," Kumar said.

The two terrorists surrendered during the encounter at Kulgam’s Tongdounu and the police recovered incriminating materials including two pistols and ammunition from them.

Earlier, Jammu and Kashmir Director General of Police (DGP) Dilbagh Singh accused Pakistan of sending terrorists to India.

"We have got enough evidence to incriminate Pakistan for not only training people but also for sending terrorist outfits to India to disturb the ongoing District Development Council poll process," he said.

General Officer Commanding (GOC) Chinar Corps had said that Pakistan has been making efforts to misguide the youth of Jammu and Kashmir.

As many as twelve terrorists have surrendered during live encounters with security forces this year, said Vijay Kumar, Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kashmir.

As many as twelve terrorists have surrendered during live encounters with security forces this year, said Vijay Kumar, Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kashmir. Earlier today, two local terrorists affiliated with terrorist organisation Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) surrendered on appeal of families during the encounter with security forces in Kulgam. "Two terrorists of LeT surrendered during the live encounter at Kulgam. So far 12 terrorists have surrendered during live encounters with security forces this year," Kumar said. The two terrorists surrendered during the encounter at Kulgam’s Tongdounu and the police recovered incriminating materials including two pistols and ammunition from them. Earlier, Jammu and Kashmir Director General of Police (DGP) Dilbagh Singh accused Pakistan of sending terrorists to India. "We have got enough evidence to incriminate Pakistan for not only training people but also for sending terrorist outfits to India to disturb the ongoing District Development Council poll process," he said. General Officer Commanding (GOC) Chinar Corps had said that Pakistan has been making efforts to misguide the youth of Jammu and Kashmir.

12 terrorists surrendered during encounters with security forces in J&K this year

It's a bizarre world where nothing is impossible. If anyone had told us last year that year 2020 will see the whole world coming to a halt, we wouldn't have believed it. But coronavirus did just that. Given what this year has shown us, it won't be hard to believe that a Taliban terrorist had a 'life insurance policy'

The terrorist in question is Mullah Akhtar Mansour. He was killed in a US drone strike in the year 2016. He had apparently purchased an actual 'life insurance' policy from a private company in Pakistan.

The interesting bit came to light during a terror funding case against Mansour and his absconding accomplices. An anti-terrorism court in Karachi heard from the insurance company which confirmed that the Taliban terrorist had indeed purchased an insurance policy. The revelation was made last year at the hearing of the case filed by Federal Investigation Agency (FIA).

Mullah Akhtar Mansour purchased the policy under fake identity.

It appears that Mansour paid IGI General Insurance Limited Pakistani Rs 300,000 before his death on May 21, 2016.

The insurance company presented a cheque of Pakistani Rs 300,000 in the court in order to deposit in government treasury.

Check out: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/top-10-mind-bending-space-discoveries-and-observations-from-2020-349472#do-black-holes-have-hair-349460">Top 10 mind-bending space discoveries and observations from 2020</a>

However, FIA investigators told the company to pay the principal amount along with premiums so that the entire amount could get deposited in the treasury.

The anti-terrorism court judge also sought reports from two private banks, Allied Bank Ltd and Bank Al-Falah, regarding the accounts purportedly obtained and operated by the Afghan Taliban leader and/or his accomplices along with details of the money deposited/transacted through them.

(With ANI inputs)

It's a bizarre world where nothing is impossible. If anyone had told us last year that year 2020 will see the whole world coming to a halt, we wouldn't have believed it.

It's a bizarre world where nothing is impossible. If anyone had told us last year that year 2020 will see the whole world coming to a halt, we wouldn't have believed it. But coronavirus did just that. Given what this year has shown us, it won't be hard to believe that a Taliban terrorist had a 'life insurance policy' The terrorist in question is Mullah Akhtar Mansour. He was killed in a US drone strike in the year 2016. He had apparently purchased an actual 'life insurance' policy from a private company in Pakistan. The interesting bit came to light during a terror funding case against Mansour and his absconding accomplices. An anti-terrorism court in Karachi heard from the insurance company which confirmed that the Taliban terrorist had indeed purchased an insurance policy. The revelation was made last year at the hearing of the case filed by Federal Investigation Agency (FIA). Mullah Akhtar Mansour purchased the policy under fake identity. It appears that Mansour paid IGI General Insurance Limited Pakistani Rs 300,000 before his death on May 21, 2016. The insurance company presented a cheque of Pakistani Rs 300,000 in the court in order to deposit in government treasury. Check out: Top 10 mind-bending space discoveries and observations from 2020 However, FIA investigators told the company to pay the principal amount along with premiums so that the entire amount could get deposited in the treasury. The anti-terrorism court judge also sought reports from two private banks, Allied Bank Ltd and Bank Al-Falah, regarding the accounts purportedly obtained and operated by the Afghan Taliban leader and/or his accomplices along with details of the money deposited/transacted through them. (With ANI inputs)

This dead Taliban terrorist had purchased an actual 'life insurance policy'

The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) has given approval for "basic expense" for Lakshar-e-Taiba's leader Zakiur Rehman Lakhvi and Mahmood Sultan Bashiruddin, a Pakistani nuclear engineer. Both have been listed by the UN as international terrorists. Lakhvi had a role in the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, while Sultan, once at the Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission came under the scanner for his meetings with Al Qaeda's Osama Bin Laden. Sultan has been awarded Sitara-i-Imtiaz, the third-highest civilian award of Pakistan. There may be more such developments coming.

Has it happened before?

Yes. Pakistan had gone to United Nations Security Council for Hafiz Saeed last year to get his basic expense with the body approving Islamabad's request. Saeed is responsible for 26/11 Mumbai attack and has a bounty of $10 million on him by the US. Pakistan has said that such "an exemption was in line with the established procedures and practices of the UNSC 1267 Sanctions Committee".

What is a basic expense for UN Listed terrorists?

According to the security council resolution, asset freeze exemptions can be granted for what is called basic expenses. These include provisions such as payment for foodstuff, rent or mortgage, medicines and medical treatment, taxes, insurance premiums, and public utility charges, or exclusively for payment of reasonable professional fees and reimbursement of incurred expenses associated with the provision of legal services, etc. 1267 sanctions include three impacts--Assets Freeze, Travel Ban and Arms Embargo.

What is the procedure?

The procedure is that someone puts in a request with the 1267 UNSC Committee, and then if all 15 members do not object within three days, approval is granted. In this case, the request came from the Imran Khan government. The provision that all 15 members should object, thus disapproval of the request requires unanimity. &nbsp;Even if one or two or even 14 members objected, it would still have come through because of this requirement.

Why did no one object to it?

UNSC committee members generally do not disapprove of basic expense requests unless they are blatantly disproportionate, because it goes into all the humanitarian and human rights angles.

Basic expense at 150,000 Pakistani rupees. Too much?

One could legitimately ask the question of whether Pak 1,50,000 rupees a month is just "basic" expense. 150,000 Pak Rupees a month is equivalent in cost of living terms to about USD 6,500 in New York per month or Rupees Indian Rs 70,000.

Benefit for Pakistan?

For someone like Pakistan, it is gaming the system, using the UN Loopholes. Technically and procedurally they are well within their rights. Understanding is, Pakistan is not paying Lashkar. They are using the loophole to allow Lashkar to draw its own funds from its bank accounts which are frozen.

The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) has given approval for "basic expense" for Lakshar-e-Taiba's leader Zakiur Rehman Lakhvi and Mahmood Sultan Bashiruddin, a Pakistani nuclear engineer.

The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) has given approval for "basic expense" for Lakshar-e-Taiba's leader Zakiur Rehman Lakhvi and Mahmood Sultan Bashiruddin, a Pakistani nuclear engineer. Both have been listed by the UN as international terrorists. Lakhvi had a role in the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, while Sultan, once at the Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission came under the scanner for his meetings with Al Qaeda's Osama Bin Laden. Sultan has been awarded Sitara-i-Imtiaz, the third-highest civilian award of Pakistan. There may be more such developments coming. Has it happened before? Yes. Pakistan had gone to United Nations Security Council for Hafiz Saeed last year to get his basic expense with the body approving Islamabad's request. Saeed is responsible for 26/11 Mumbai attack and has a bounty of $10 million on him by the US. Pakistan has said that such "an exemption was in line with the established procedures and practices of the UNSC 1267 Sanctions Committee". What is a basic expense for UN Listed terrorists? According to the security council resolution, asset freeze exemptions can be granted for what is called basic expenses. These include provisions such as payment for foodstuff, rent or mortgage, medicines and medical treatment, taxes, insurance premiums, and public utility charges, or exclusively for payment of reasonable professional fees and reimbursement of incurred expenses associated with the provision of legal services, etc. 1267 sanctions include three impacts--Assets Freeze, Travel Ban and Arms Embargo. What is the procedure? The procedure is that someone puts in a request with the 1267 UNSC Committee, and then if all 15 members do not object within three days, approval is granted. In this case, the request came from the Imran Khan government. The provision that all 15 members should object, thus disapproval of the request requires unanimity. Even if one or two or even 14 members objected, it would still have come through because of this requirement. Why did no one object to it? UNSC committee members generally do not disapprove of basic expense requests unless they are blatantly disproportionate, because it goes into all the humanitarian and human rights angles. Basic expense at 150,000 Pakistani rupees. Too much? One could legitimately ask the question of whether Pak 1,50,000 rupees a month is just "basic" expense. 150,000 Pak Rupees a month is equivalent in cost of living terms to about USD 6,500 in New York per month or Rupees Indian Rs 70,000. Benefit for Pakistan? For someone like Pakistan, it is gaming the system, using the UN Loopholes. Technically and procedurally they are well within their rights. Understanding is, Pakistan is not paying Lashkar. They are using the loophole to allow Lashkar to draw its own funds from its bank accounts which are frozen.

Eyebrows raised as after Hafiz Saeed, Lakhvi gets 'basic expense' approval from UNSC over Pakistan's request

Gunmen shot dead Malalai Maiwand, a TV journalist along with her driver on Thursday. Maiwand worked with Enekaas TV. Her death marks the second murder of a journalist in Afghanistan in a month. Maiwand was killed in Jalalabad in Afghanistan. Her killing is another sign of growing violence in Afghanistan despite peace talks between the USA and Taliban.

Prominent Afghan figures including journalists, clerics, politicians and rights activists have been killed in recent months.

Attaullah Khogyani, spokesman for the Nangarhar provincial governor, and the local hospital confirmed the killings.&nbsp;

Nangarhar province and its capital Jalalabad have seen regular clashes between government forces and the Taliban. The extremist Islamic State group has also claimed several deadly attacks in the province.

The murder of Maiwand, who was in her 20s, comes just weeks after Radio Liberty reporter Aliyas Dayee was killed in a car bomb attack in Lashkar Gah.

Human Rights Watch said Dayee had previously been threatened by the Taliban.

A former television presenter in Kabul, Yama Siawash, was killed in a similar car bomb attack near his home last month.&nbsp;

No group has so far claimed these murders.

Afghan forces are battling an increase in violence in the country, much of it unleashed by the Taliban as they attempt to gain leverage in peace talks in Qatar, which opened in September.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Gunmen shot dead Malalai Maiwand, a TV journalist along with her driver on Thursday. Maiwand worked with Enekaas TV. Her death marks the second murder of a journalist in Afghanistan in a month.

Gunmen shot dead Malalai Maiwand, a TV journalist along with her driver on Thursday. Maiwand worked with Enekaas TV. Her death marks the second murder of a journalist in Afghanistan in a month. Maiwand was killed in Jalalabad in Afghanistan. Her killing is another sign of growing violence in Afghanistan despite peace talks between the USA and Taliban. Prominent Afghan figures including journalists, clerics, politicians and rights activists have been killed in recent months. Attaullah Khogyani, spokesman for the Nangarhar provincial governor, and the local hospital confirmed the killings. Nangarhar province and its capital Jalalabad have seen regular clashes between government forces and the Taliban. The extremist Islamic State group has also claimed several deadly attacks in the province. The murder of Maiwand, who was in her 20s, comes just weeks after Radio Liberty reporter Aliyas Dayee was killed in a car bomb attack in Lashkar Gah. Human Rights Watch said Dayee had previously been threatened by the Taliban. A former television presenter in Kabul, Yama Siawash, was killed in a similar car bomb attack near his home last month. No group has so far claimed these murders. Afghan forces are battling an increase in violence in the country, much of it unleashed by the Taliban as they attempt to gain leverage in peace talks in Qatar, which opened in September.

Afghanistan: Woman TV journalist shot dead

Initial probe suggests that the five, two from Punjab and three from Jammu and Kashmir, have links to Khalistan and Islamic terror organisations.

5 terrorists arrested after encounter in Delhi's Shakarpur

An Afghan army-led joint force of corps, commandos and other fighters have conducted an operation against the Taliban in the eastern province of Laghman, leaving 61 terrorists killed or seriously injured, Brig. Gen. Zalmai Nabard, the commander of the 1st Infantry Brigade in Laghman, said.

"As a result of the operation, 44 Taliban terrorists, including seven key commanders, were killed and 17 others were seriously wounded," Nabard said.

According to the military, the six-day operation was conducted in Laghman`s Dawlat Shah and Alishang districts.

The army officer claimed that the areas had been completely cleared of the Taliban and that security checkpoints had been set up there.

An Afghan army-led joint force of corps, commandos and other fighters have conducted an operation against the Taliban in the eastern province of Laghman, leaving 61 terrorists killed or seriously injured, Brig.

An Afghan army-led joint force of corps, commandos and other fighters have conducted an operation against the Taliban in the eastern province of Laghman, leaving 61 terrorists killed or seriously injured, Brig. Gen. Zalmai Nabard, the commander of the 1st Infantry Brigade in Laghman, said. "As a result of the operation, 44 Taliban terrorists, including seven key commanders, were killed and 17 others were seriously wounded," Nabard said. According to the military, the six-day operation was conducted in Laghman`s Dawlat Shah and Alishang districts. The army officer claimed that the areas had been completely cleared of the Taliban and that security checkpoints had been set up there.

Afghan Army operation in Laghman leaves 44 Taliban terrorists dead

A horrific attack blamed on Boko Haram jihadist group has claimed 110 lives in northeast Nigeria, said the United Nations. UN's humanitarian coordinator said that this was the "most violent direct attack against innocent civilians this year". The attack took in Koshobe, a village near the main city of Maiduguri. The attackers targetted rice field farmers. The tragedy took place on Saturday (November 28)

"At least 110 civilians were ruthlessly killed and many others were wounded in this attack," UN's Edward Kallon said in a statement after initial tolls indicated 43 and then at least 70 dead from Saturday's massacre by suspected Boko Haram fighters.

"The incident is the most violent direct attack against innocent civilians this year," Kallon said, adding: "I call for the perpetrators of this heinous and senseless act to be brought to justice."

Borno Governor Babaganan Umara Zulum attended the burial Sunday in the nearby village of Zabarmari of 43 bodies recovered on Saturday, saying the toll could rise after search operations resumed.

According to a pro-government anti-jihadist media, the attackers tied up agricultural workers and slit their throats.

The victims were among labourers from Sokoto state in northwestern Nigeria, roughly 1,000 kilometres (600 miles) away, who had travelled to the northeast to find work, it said.&nbsp;

Six were wounded in the attack and eight remained missing as of Saturday.&nbsp;

Kallon, citing "reports that several women may have been kidnapped", called for their immediate release and return to safety.

Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari condemned the attack, saying: "The entire country has been wounded by these senseless killings."

The attack took place as voters went to the polls in long-delayed local elections in Borno State. 
The polls had been repeatedly postponed because of an increase in attacks by Boko Haram and a rival dissident faction, ISWAP.

The two groups have been blamed for increasing attacks on loggers, farmers and fishermen whom they accuse of spying for the army and pro-government militias.&nbsp;

(With AFP inputs)

A horrific attack blamed on Boko Haram jihadist group has claimed 110 lives in northeast Nigeria, said the United Nations. UN's humanitarian coordinator said that this was the "most violent direct attack against innocent civilians this year".

A horrific attack blamed on Boko Haram jihadist group has claimed 110 lives in northeast Nigeria, said the United Nations. UN's humanitarian coordinator said that this was the "most violent direct attack against innocent civilians this year". The attack took in Koshobe, a village near the main city of Maiduguri. The attackers targetted rice field farmers. The tragedy took place on Saturday (November 28) "At least 110 civilians were ruthlessly killed and many others were wounded in this attack," UN's Edward Kallon said in a statement after initial tolls indicated 43 and then at least 70 dead from Saturday's massacre by suspected Boko Haram fighters. "The incident is the most violent direct attack against innocent civilians this year," Kallon said, adding: "I call for the perpetrators of this heinous and senseless act to be brought to justice." Borno Governor Babaganan Umara Zulum attended the burial Sunday in the nearby village of Zabarmari of 43 bodies recovered on Saturday, saying the toll could rise after search operations resumed. According to a pro-government anti-jihadist media, the attackers tied up agricultural workers and slit their throats. The victims were among labourers from Sokoto state in northwestern Nigeria, roughly 1,000 kilometres (600 miles) away, who had travelled to the northeast to find work, it said. Six were wounded in the attack and eight remained missing as of Saturday. Kallon, citing "reports that several women may have been kidnapped", called for their immediate release and return to safety. Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari condemned the attack, saying: "The entire country has been wounded by these senseless killings." The attack took place as voters went to the polls in long-delayed local elections in Borno State. The polls had been repeatedly postponed because of an increase in attacks by Boko Haram and a rival dissident faction, ISWAP. The two groups have been blamed for increasing attacks on loggers, farmers and fishermen whom they accuse of spying for the army and pro-government militias. (With AFP inputs)

Nigeria attack blamed on jihadists claims 110 lives

Afghan capital Kabul was rocked by a terror attack on Friday. Although the attack was blamed initially on Taliban, the responsibility is now claimed by Islamic State. Atleast 8 people have died. In Africa, Ethiopian government troops pushed towards Tigray region. Saudi King opened G-20 Summit that is being held amid coronavirus pandemic. In Thailand, anti-government protests have continued. US has extended Iraq sanction wavers. Read this and more in our top 10 world news.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/kabul-terror-attack-islamic-state-claims-responsibility-344558">Kabul terror attack: Islamic State claims responsibility</a>

<img alt="Kabul terror attack" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3e5bfef0-b615-4d4e-907c-176e66931ec4" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Kabul.JPG" />

The terrorist attack was earlier blamed on Taliban

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ethiopian-government-troops-push-towards-tigray-capital-rebuff-mediation-344553">Ethiopian government troops push towards Tigray capital, rebuff mediation</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ethiopian-government-troops-push-towards-tigray-capital-rebuff-mediation-344553"><img alt="Ethiopia Tigray" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5f7f6582-fa8f-4be1-a21d-63e266c30540" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Ethiopia.JPG" /></a> 
 
The government forces said they were set to take Mekelle even as TPLF dug in and said they had made advances in southern and northern fronts.

 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-king-opens-g20-summit-pandemic-dominates-meet-344564">Saudi King opens G20 summit, pandemic dominates meet</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-king-opens-g20-summit-pandemic-dominates-meet-344564"><img alt="G-20 summit" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="84a110c2-5ab5-48e5-9fcf-0d4a02f9b77f" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Saudi_0.JPG" /></a> 
 
Brazil President Jair Bolsonaro speaking virtually at the summit, said: "Cooperation within G-20 is key for us to overcome the COVID-19 pandemic and resume the pathway towards economic and social recovery."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/now-bad-student-group-protests-against-thailand-government-344542">Now, 'bad student' group protests against Thailand government</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/now-bad-student-group-protests-against-thailand-government-344542"><img alt="Thailand protests" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f77f59f8-ef65-404d-9a73-95d0401541fc" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Thailand.JPG" /></a> 
 
The student protests come amid large scale anti-government protests in Thailand which has shaken the Prayuth government.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-extends-iraq-sanction-waiver-to-end-days-before-biden-inauguration-344530">US extends Iraq sanction waiver, to end days before Biden inauguration</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-extends-iraq-sanction-waiver-to-end-days-before-biden-inauguration-344530"><img alt="Iraq" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0d4cf59b-af58-408e-8930-abe78477a433" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/trump_7.JPG" /></a> 
 
The lengths of the exemptions have become a key tool in US policy towards Iraq, demonstrating the level of satisfaction or frustration with Baghdad

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/terribly-disturbing-australian-pm-reacts-publicly-on-unlawful-killings-report-344512">'Terribly disturbing': Australian PM reacts publicly on 'unlawful' killings report</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/terribly-disturbing-australian-pm-reacts-publicly-on-unlawful-killings-report-344512"><img alt="Australia" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c5f7e4d5-374c-4aca-b064-548545d540bc" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Australia.JPG" /></a> 
 
Morrison had also called his Afghan counterpart on Wednesday where he underscored 'some disturbing allegations' and added that the government taking them 'very seriously'

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canadas-largest-city-toronto-to-be-on-covid-19-lockdown-starting-monday-344523">Canada's largest city Toronto to be on COVID-19 lockdown starting Monday</a>

<img alt="Canada" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a28a2bf9-71b2-4db1-81fa-117af2b27c7b" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Canada.JPG" />

The lockdown measures come as Toronto crossed 100,000 COVID-19 infections as PM Justin Trudeau warned citizens not to "see friends this weekend"

 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/prince-harry-finds-controversy-surrounding-princess-diana-interview-investigation-horrid-report-344538">Prince Harry finds controversy surrounding Princess Diana interview investigation 'horrid': Report</a>

<img alt="Diana" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a17c606b-66d2-483e-a138-de0f2f08607e" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/diana.JPG" />

A source close to Prince Harry is responded to a recent tabloid reports that accused the royal of failing to support his brother, Prince William and protect their late mother, Princess Diana's, legacy.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-enters-fourth-wave-of-covid-19-schools-shut-344511">Hong Kong enters fourth wave of COVID-19; schools shut</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-enters-fourth-wave-of-covid-19-schools-shut-344511"><img alt="Hong Kong" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="35375867-1459-4fcf-857e-6b770809eb74" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Hong%20Kong.JPG" /></a> 
 
The decision was taken after the city reported 26 cases on Friday, of which 21 were local cases

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/germany-teacher-arrested-on-suspicion-of-murder-and-cannibalism-344506">Germany: Teacher arrested on suspicion of murder and cannibalism</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/germany-teacher-arrested-on-suspicion-of-murder-and-cannibalism-344506"><img alt="Germany" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d2c33984-5f09-4e7e-a3e1-c21df03f009b" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/germany.JPG" /></a> 
 
The prosecutors said they are 'investigating at full speed to shed light on the sexual murder with suspicion of a cannibalistic background' 
&nbsp;

Afghan capital Kabul was rocked by a terror attack on Friday. Although the attack was blamed initially on Taliban, the responsibility is now claimed by Islamic State.

Afghan capital Kabul was rocked by a terror attack on Friday. Although the attack was blamed initially on Taliban, the responsibility is now claimed by Islamic State. Atleast 8 people have died. In Africa, Ethiopian government troops pushed towards Tigray region. Saudi King opened G-20 Summit that is being held amid coronavirus pandemic. In Thailand, anti-government protests have continued. US has extended Iraq sanction wavers. Read this and more in our top 10 world news. Kabul terror attack: Islamic State claims responsibility The terrorist attack was earlier blamed on Taliban Ethiopian government troops push towards Tigray capital, rebuff mediation The government forces said they were set to take Mekelle even as TPLF dug in and said they had made advances in southern and northern fronts. Saudi King opens G20 summit, pandemic dominates meet Brazil President Jair Bolsonaro speaking virtually at the summit, said: "Cooperation within G-20 is key for us to overcome the COVID-19 pandemic and resume the pathway towards economic and social recovery." Now, 'bad student' group protests against Thailand government The student protests come amid large scale anti-government protests in Thailand which has shaken the Prayuth government. US extends Iraq sanction waiver, to end days before Biden inauguration The lengths of the exemptions have become a key tool in US policy towards Iraq, demonstrating the level of satisfaction or frustration with Baghdad 'Terribly disturbing': Australian PM reacts publicly on 'unlawful' killings report Morrison had also called his Afghan counterpart on Wednesday where he underscored 'some disturbing allegations' and added that the government taking them 'very seriously' Canada's largest city Toronto to be on COVID-19 lockdown starting Monday The lockdown measures come as Toronto crossed 100,000 COVID-19 infections as PM Justin Trudeau warned citizens not to "see friends this weekend" Prince Harry finds controversy surrounding Princess Diana interview investigation 'horrid': Report A source close to Prince Harry is responded to a recent tabloid reports that accused the royal of failing to support his brother, Prince William and protect their late mother, Princess Diana's, legacy. Hong Kong enters fourth wave of COVID-19; schools shut The decision was taken after the city reported 26 cases on Friday, of which 21 were local cases Germany: Teacher arrested on suspicion of murder and cannibalism The prosecutors said they are 'investigating at full speed to shed light on the sexual murder with suspicion of a cannibalistic background'

Top 10 World news: Kabul terror attack, Ethiopia conflict, and more!

Pakistani spy agency ISI had given the task of carrying out a suicide attack on the scale of Pulwama attack to the Jaish-e-Mohammed for which four terrorists were infiltrated into India from Samba sector on November 18/19 soon after which they were killed in an encounter by security forces near Nagrota in Jammu sector.

Senior government sources said the charge of carrying out a Pulwama scale terror attack bigger was given to the Jaish-e-Mohammed headed by Maulana Masood Azhar by Pakistan Army`s Inter-Services Intelligence.The man chosen to run the entire show was Azhar`s brother Abdul Rauf Asgar who selected four jihadis from the Shakargarh camp of Jaish in Pakistan near the Indian border.

Qazi Tarar, another terrorist ranking high in Jaish was also assigned with Asgar to plan the attack.A meeting was also held in Jaish headquarters in Bahawalpur and included Maulana Abu Jundal and Mufti Tauseef of the Jaish terror network along with the above two and ISI officers, the sources informed.

After the initial planning was done, the Shakargarh unit of the Jaish was tasked to carry out the final preparations including the selection of terrorists and their training.The four terrorists received suicide attack training and also the drills to use available firepower to inflict maximum possible damage to Indian positions in the Kashmir valley.

The Jaish terrorists used the network of nullahs in the riverine border area to sneak into the Indian territory in the Samba sector and were picked up in a truck near Jatwal six kms from Samba towards Kathua in Jammu division. Sources said most of the Jaish infiltration attempts have been done using similar routes in the same sector in dark nights around 3-4 am.

The Jaish terror training camp in Shakargarh in Pakistan is around 30 Kms from the pick up point in terms of aerial distance.When the truck was intercepted by the troops around the Ban toll plaza by Jammu and Kashmir Police and CRPF troopers at 4.45 am, the driver ran towards dark while the terrorists hiding in the apple truck panicked and an encounter followed up.

The terrorists were raising slogans of Allah-O-Akbar, Islam Zindabad, Pakistan Zindabad and Jasih zindabad when they were asked to surrender by security forces through numerous appeals and made it clear that they had come to die on Indian soil.

A huge cache of arms was recovered from them including 11 AK rifles, 23 magazines, 29 grenades, 10 under-barrel grenade launchers all made in Pakistan along with handheld Global Positioning Systems and CASIO watches at the same time set for all terrorists.

As soon as the terrorists entered the Indian territory, they were in constant touch with the Abdul Rauf Asgar and handler in Kashmir including Muhammed Asgar Khan Kashmiri, who is the operational commander of the Jaish in Kashmir valley.

The security forces are also trying to find out more details of the source of help provided to the terrorists who had entered India and were planning to reach Kashmir. The Indian security forces are also on the lookout for more possible attempts by terrorists to sneak in and carry out attacks on Indian soil.

Pakistani spy agency ISI had given the task of carrying out a suicide attack on the scale of Pulwama attack to the Jaish-e-Mohammed for which four terrorists were infiltrated into India from Samba sector on November 18/19 soon after which they were killed in an encounter by security forces near Nagrota in Jammu sector.

Pakistani spy agency ISI had given the task of carrying out a suicide attack on the scale of Pulwama attack to the Jaish-e-Mohammed for which four terrorists were infiltrated into India from Samba sector on November 18/19 soon after which they were killed in an encounter by security forces near Nagrota in Jammu sector. Senior government sources said the charge of carrying out a Pulwama scale terror attack bigger was given to the Jaish-e-Mohammed headed by Maulana Masood Azhar by Pakistan Army`s Inter-Services Intelligence.The man chosen to run the entire show was Azhar`s brother Abdul Rauf Asgar who selected four jihadis from the Shakargarh camp of Jaish in Pakistan near the Indian border. Qazi Tarar, another terrorist ranking high in Jaish was also assigned with Asgar to plan the attack.A meeting was also held in Jaish headquarters in Bahawalpur and included Maulana Abu Jundal and Mufti Tauseef of the Jaish terror network along with the above two and ISI officers, the sources informed. After the initial planning was done, the Shakargarh unit of the Jaish was tasked to carry out the final preparations including the selection of terrorists and their training.The four terrorists received suicide attack training and also the drills to use available firepower to inflict maximum possible damage to Indian positions in the Kashmir valley. The Jaish terrorists used the network of nullahs in the riverine border area to sneak into the Indian territory in the Samba sector and were picked up in a truck near Jatwal six kms from Samba towards Kathua in Jammu division. Sources said most of the Jaish infiltration attempts have been done using similar routes in the same sector in dark nights around 3-4 am. The Jaish terror training camp in Shakargarh in Pakistan is around 30 Kms from the pick up point in terms of aerial distance.When the truck was intercepted by the troops around the Ban toll plaza by Jammu and Kashmir Police and CRPF troopers at 4.45 am, the driver ran towards dark while the terrorists hiding in the apple truck panicked and an encounter followed up. The terrorists were raising slogans of Allah-O-Akbar, Islam Zindabad, Pakistan Zindabad and Jasih zindabad when they were asked to surrender by security forces through numerous appeals and made it clear that they had come to die on Indian soil. A huge cache of arms was recovered from them including 11 AK rifles, 23 magazines, 29 grenades, 10 under-barrel grenade launchers all made in Pakistan along with handheld Global Positioning Systems and CASIO watches at the same time set for all terrorists. As soon as the terrorists entered the Indian territory, they were in constant touch with the Abdul Rauf Asgar and handler in Kashmir including Muhammed Asgar Khan Kashmiri, who is the operational commander of the Jaish in Kashmir valley. The security forces are also trying to find out more details of the source of help provided to the terrorists who had entered India and were planning to reach Kashmir. The Indian security forces are also on the lookout for more possible attempts by terrorists to sneak in and carry out attacks on Indian soil.

Terrorist Masood Azhar's brother was handler of 4 Jaish attackers in Nagrota: Sources

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday held a review meeting with Union Home Minister Amit Shah, National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval after it was found that terrorists were planning a big attack on the anniversary of 26/11 terror attack, news agency ANI reported quoting govt sources.

Four JeM terrorists hiding in a lorry were gunned down by the security forces at the Ban toll plaza in the Nagrota area of Jammu district on Thursday in an early morning encounter that lasted for over three hours.&nbsp;

Mumbai had come under attack on November 26, 2008, when 10 Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terrorists targeted the city in a series of coordinated shootings and bombings that injured over 300 and claimed the lives of 166 people in India's financial capital.

According to sources, the four terrorists are likely from the United Nations-designated terror group Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM). "These terrorists used old modus operandi and had recently infiltrated the Indian side. An investigation is underway," they added.

Mukesh Singh, Inspector General of Police, Jammu Zone had said that it was possible terrorists were planning a "big attack" and targeting the upcoming District Development Council (DDC) elections in the Union Territory.

The DDC elections will be conducted in Jammu and Kashmir in eight phases between November 28 and December 19, and the counting of votes will take place on December 22.

The IG, Jammu Zone also informed that the kind of seizure from the encounter site is "unprecedented". "It's possible that they were planning a big attack. This kind of seizure is unprecedented. It is possible that they were targeting the DDC election. However, we are investigating," Singh said.

The encounter broke out after a truck was intercepted at 5 am on Thursday during a routine check.

"During the search, CRPF soldiers and police were fired upon using heavy ammunition, and grenades were also lobbed. More forces were called in and the encounter went on for 3 hours," the IG said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday held a review meeting with Union Home Minister Amit Shah, National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval after it was found that terrorists were planning a big attack on the anniversary of 26/11 terror attack, news agency ANI reported quoting govt sources.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday held a review meeting with Union Home Minister Amit Shah, National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval after it was found that terrorists were planning a big attack on the anniversary of 26/11 terror attack, news agency ANI reported quoting govt sources. Four JeM terrorists hiding in a lorry were gunned down by the security forces at the Ban toll plaza in the Nagrota area of Jammu district on Thursday in an early morning encounter that lasted for over three hours. Mumbai had come under attack on November 26, 2008, when 10 Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terrorists targeted the city in a series of coordinated shootings and bombings that injured over 300 and claimed the lives of 166 people in India's financial capital. According to sources, the four terrorists are likely from the United Nations-designated terror group Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM). "These terrorists used old modus operandi and had recently infiltrated the Indian side. An investigation is underway," they added. Mukesh Singh, Inspector General of Police, Jammu Zone had said that it was possible terrorists were planning a "big attack" and targeting the upcoming District Development Council (DDC) elections in the Union Territory. The DDC elections will be conducted in Jammu and Kashmir in eight phases between November 28 and December 19, and the counting of votes will take place on December 22. The IG, Jammu Zone also informed that the kind of seizure from the encounter site is "unprecedented". "It's possible that they were planning a big attack. This kind of seizure is unprecedented. It is possible that they were targeting the DDC election. However, we are investigating," Singh said. The encounter broke out after a truck was intercepted at 5 am on Thursday during a routine check. "During the search, CRPF soldiers and police were fired upon using heavy ammunition, and grenades were also lobbed. More forces were called in and the encounter went on for 3 hours," the IG said. (With inputs from agencies)

Terrorists had planned attack on 26/11 anniversary: PM Modi holds review meet

Five Talibani terrorists were killed on Saturday as Afghan police repelled an attack in Afghanistan's Kandahar province. Police spokesman said that another terrorist was injured.

"Last night, the Taliban attacked Yaro Qala and Maruf Qala [towns], including the seventh and eight [police] stations in Mianshin in Dand [districts]. Five terrorists were killed and one more was injured in the police counterattack," said Jamal Nasir Barakzai, a spokesman for the provincial police headquarters.

Taliban has not commented on the matter.

In a separate incident, five soldiers were killed in a Taliban attack. The attack took place in Khawaja Ghar district in Afghanistan`s northern Takhar province on Saturday, district governor Mohammad Omar Omar said

The armed terrorists stormed security checkpoints in Hawa Shinasi area outside district headquarters in the wee hours of Saturday, triggering a gun battle, the official said, adding that five soldiers were killed and five others injured in the fighting.He said the Taliban have suffered casualties but did not give an exact figure.

(With ANI inputs)

Five Talibani terrorists were killed on Saturday as Afghan police repelled an attack in Afghanistan's Kandahar province. Police spokesman said that another terrorist was injured.

Five Talibani terrorists were killed on Saturday as Afghan police repelled an attack in Afghanistan's Kandahar province. Police spokesman said that another terrorist was injured. "Last night, the Taliban attacked Yaro Qala and Maruf Qala [towns], including the seventh and eight [police] stations in Mianshin in Dand [districts]. Five terrorists were killed and one more was injured in the police counterattack," said Jamal Nasir Barakzai, a spokesman for the provincial police headquarters. Taliban has not commented on the matter. In a separate incident, five soldiers were killed in a Taliban attack. The attack took place in Khawaja Ghar district in Afghanistan`s northern Takhar province on Saturday, district governor Mohammad Omar Omar said The armed terrorists stormed security checkpoints in Hawa Shinasi area outside district headquarters in the wee hours of Saturday, triggering a gun battle, the official said, adding that five soldiers were killed and five others injured in the fighting.He said the Taliban have suffered casualties but did not give an exact figure. (With ANI inputs)

Five Taliban killed as Afghan police repel attack in Kandahar

Former Afghan television presenter Yama Siawash was killed in bomb attack on Saturday in Kabul. He was killed as a bomb attached to his vehicle exploded near his home. Two other civilians were killed in the blast. Siawash used to be prominent political and current affairs presenter with Tolo News and was known for hard hitting style of interviewing. Tolo News is Afghanistan's biggest private TV channel.

Afghanistan's interior ministry has blamed Haqqani network, a group linked to the Taliban. It did not claim responsibility for the blast in the immediate aftermath.

"Such targeted attacks and explosions of sticky bombs is the continuation of crimes by Haqqani network and the Taliban," Tariq Arian, spokesman for the ministry, told reporters.

Haqqani network has been designated by the US as a terrorist group.

Siawash's death drew immediate condemnation from senior Afghan officials and foreign diplomats.

"I am shocked at the killing of former Tolo News anchor Yama Siawash," Ross Wilson, US charge d'affaires in Kabul, said on Twitter.

"This attack is an assault on freedom of the press, one of Afghanistan's core democratic principles." 
Abdullah Abdullah, who heads the country's overall peace and reconciliation process, also said Siawash's murder targeted freedom of expression in Afghanistan.

"This is an unforgivable and unforgettable crime," he said in a statement.

Targetted killings

The Afghan Journalists Safety Committee, a panel set up by media networks to oversee security for journalists in the country, called for "identifying and prosecuting the perpetrators" of the attack.

President Ashraf Ghani ordered an investigation into the murders, the presidential palace said.

Targeted killings of prominent figures, including journalists, clerics, politicians and rights activists, have become more common in recent months amid growing violence in the country.

On Thursday, the father of Zarifa Ghafari, one of Afghanistan's first female mayors, was gunned down in front of his house in Kabul.

His assassination was condemned by US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, who had awarded Ghafari with the International Women of Courage award earlier this year.

US watchdog Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction (SIGAR) said in a report this week that violent attacks in the country had surged by 50 per cent during three months to September when compared to the previous quarter.

Dozens of people were killed in less than two weeks in Kabul in brutal attacks that also left scores wounded. 
On Monday, a deadly raid by militants on Kabul University left 22 people dead, many of them students.

The Islamic State militant group claimed responsibility for the attack but the government blamed the Haqqani network.

The attack on the university came just days after a suicide bombing near an educational centre killed 24 people. That attack was also claimed by IS.

(With AFP inputs)

Former Afghan television presenter Yama Siawash was killed in bomb attack on Saturday in Kabul. He was killed as a bomb attached to his vehicle exploded near his home.

Former Afghan television presenter Yama Siawash was killed in bomb attack on Saturday in Kabul. He was killed as a bomb attached to his vehicle exploded near his home. Two other civilians were killed in the blast. Siawash used to be prominent political and current affairs presenter with Tolo News and was known for hard hitting style of interviewing. Tolo News is Afghanistan's biggest private TV channel. Afghanistan's interior ministry has blamed Haqqani network, a group linked to the Taliban. It did not claim responsibility for the blast in the immediate aftermath. "Such targeted attacks and explosions of sticky bombs is the continuation of crimes by Haqqani network and the Taliban," Tariq Arian, spokesman for the ministry, told reporters. Haqqani network has been designated by the US as a terrorist group. Siawash's death drew immediate condemnation from senior Afghan officials and foreign diplomats. "I am shocked at the killing of former Tolo News anchor Yama Siawash," Ross Wilson, US charge d'affaires in Kabul, said on Twitter. "This attack is an assault on freedom of the press, one of Afghanistan's core democratic principles." Abdullah Abdullah, who heads the country's overall peace and reconciliation process, also said Siawash's murder targeted freedom of expression in Afghanistan. "This is an unforgivable and unforgettable crime," he said in a statement. Targetted killings The Afghan Journalists Safety Committee, a panel set up by media networks to oversee security for journalists in the country, called for "identifying and prosecuting the perpetrators" of the attack. President Ashraf Ghani ordered an investigation into the murders, the presidential palace said. Targeted killings of prominent figures, including journalists, clerics, politicians and rights activists, have become more common in recent months amid growing violence in the country. On Thursday, the father of Zarifa Ghafari, one of Afghanistan's first female mayors, was gunned down in front of his house in Kabul. His assassination was condemned by US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, who had awarded Ghafari with the International Women of Courage award earlier this year. US watchdog Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction (SIGAR) said in a report this week that violent attacks in the country had surged by 50 per cent during three months to September when compared to the previous quarter. Dozens of people were killed in less than two weeks in Kabul in brutal attacks that also left scores wounded. On Monday, a deadly raid by militants on Kabul University left 22 people dead, many of them students. The Islamic State militant group claimed responsibility for the attack but the government blamed the Haqqani network. The attack on the university came just days after a suicide bombing near an educational centre killed 24 people. That attack was also claimed by IS. (With AFP inputs)

Afghanistan: Former TV presenter killed in bomb attack

A terrorist has been killed while another has surrendered during a joint operation of security forces in Meej Pampore area of South Kashmir’s Pulwama district. The Jammu and Kashmir police said that an unidentified terrorist was killed in the encounter while another surrendered after security forces convinced him to leave arms.&nbsp;

The fresh surrender has brought the number of terrorists surrendering in recent months to five. When the encounter erupted, two civilians were injured during the exchange of fire;&nbsp;one among those later succumbed to his injuries. The slain has been identified as Abid Nabi from the Pampore area while the other injured is undergoing treatment and is said to be out of danger.

The J&amp;K police and the Indian Army, of late, have started a surrender policy for the local youth, where parents of the trapped militants are called to the encounter site to convince them to surrender. This year, alone, security forces have killed around 200 terrorists which included both local and foreign. &nbsp;&nbsp;

A terrorist has been killed while another has surrendered during a joint operation of security forces in Meej Pampore area of South Kashmir’s Pulwama district. The Jammu and Kashmir police said that an unidentified terrorist was killed in the encounter while another surrendered after security forces convinced him to leave arms.

A terrorist has been killed while another has surrendered during a joint operation of security forces in Meej Pampore area of South Kashmir’s Pulwama district. The Jammu and Kashmir police said that an unidentified terrorist was killed in the encounter while another surrendered after security forces convinced him to leave arms. The fresh surrender has brought the number of terrorists surrendering in recent months to five. When the encounter erupted, two civilians were injured during the exchange of fire; one among those later succumbed to his injuries. The slain has been identified as Abid Nabi from the Pampore area while the other injured is undergoing treatment and is said to be out of danger. The J&K police and the Indian Army, of late, have started a surrender policy for the local youth, where parents of the trapped militants are called to the encounter site to convince them to surrender. This year, alone, security forces have killed around 200 terrorists which included both local and foreign.

Civilian, terrorist killed in Pampore operation; another terrorist surrendered

We are witnessing the resurgence of terrorism in Europe. It's not just France or Austria that faces the terror threat. Radicalism has been growing around Europe. And European leaders are waking up to the threat posed by political Islam. On Monday, France struck back.

More than 50 Jihadists linked to Al-Qaeda were killed in an airstrike in Mali. France has been fighting a long-drawn battle against extremism in this region&nbsp;

In&nbsp;return, Macron now has a target on his head. Al Qaeda is threatening to attack the French President. It said that killing anyone who insults the Prophet is the right of every Muslim. Islamist extremism has become Europe's reality. 
&nbsp; 
With words 'Islam is a religion in crisis' Emmanuel Macron painted a target on his back. What followed was a major backlash from the Muslim world. Protesters took to the streets.

The Islamic world may have rejected Macron's message but European leaders must take it as a wake-up call. It's a continent that is struggling with growing radicalism.

In 2019, there were 119 attempted attacks in Europe. Out of these, 21 were linked to Jihadist terrorism.

In 2020, the attacks in France and Austria mark a resurgence of terrorism in Europe.&nbsp;

The challenge is collective. The response isn't.

Different European countries are trying to deal with terror threats with their own unique measures. Austria banned foreign funding for the Islamic group in 2015.

Germany made a push to train Imams locally. Italy punished radical Imams. By 2018, it has expelled 16 Imams. Sweden axed government funding to two Muslim organisations. This included a Muslim brotherhood youth group.

Sweden said that the group didn't fulfil the 'democracy requirement' needed for government aid.

Clearly, these limited measures were not enough. Europe needs a united front to challenge Islamism. A front, that can collaborate with international partners.

During his visit to Germany, India Foreign Secretary highlighted the need for greater co-operation against terror networks.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
While raising the issue of growing radicalism in Europe he said, "The terrorists are united in purpose and action while we, the victims, are yet to be so" 
&nbsp; 
This is a pivotal moment for Europe. Leaders who pushed for open borders and sat in judgment of other countries that implemented tough measures are learning it the hard way.

They need decisive action and a comprehensive approach.

We are witnessing the resurgence of terrorism in Europe. It's not just France or Austria that faces the terror threat. Radicalism has been growing around Europe.

We are witnessing the resurgence of terrorism in Europe. It's not just France or Austria that faces the terror threat. Radicalism has been growing around Europe. And European leaders are waking up to the threat posed by political Islam. On Monday, France struck back. More than 50 Jihadists linked to Al-Qaeda were killed in an airstrike in Mali. France has been fighting a long-drawn battle against extremism in this region In return, Macron now has a target on his head. Al Qaeda is threatening to attack the French President. It said that killing anyone who insults the Prophet is the right of every Muslim. Islamist extremism has become Europe's reality. With words 'Islam is a religion in crisis' Emmanuel Macron painted a target on his back. What followed was a major backlash from the Muslim world. Protesters took to the streets. The Islamic world may have rejected Macron's message but European leaders must take it as a wake-up call. It's a continent that is struggling with growing radicalism. In 2019, there were 119 attempted attacks in Europe. Out of these, 21 were linked to Jihadist terrorism. In 2020, the attacks in France and Austria mark a resurgence of terrorism in Europe. The challenge is collective. The response isn't. Different European countries are trying to deal with terror threats with their own unique measures. Austria banned foreign funding for the Islamic group in 2015. Germany made a push to train Imams locally. Italy punished radical Imams. By 2018, it has expelled 16 Imams. Sweden axed government funding to two Muslim organisations. This included a Muslim brotherhood youth group. Sweden said that the group didn't fulfil the 'democracy requirement' needed for government aid. Clearly, these limited measures were not enough. Europe needs a united front to challenge Islamism. A front, that can collaborate with international partners. During his visit to Germany, India Foreign Secretary highlighted the need for greater co-operation against terror networks. While raising the issue of growing radicalism in Europe he said, "The terrorists are united in purpose and action while we, the victims, are yet to be so" This is a pivotal moment for Europe. Leaders who pushed for open borders and sat in judgment of other countries that implemented tough measures are learning it the hard way. They need decisive action and a comprehensive approach.

With radicalism growing, Europe witnesses resurgence of terrorism

Catholics in France on Sunday celebrated the All Saints religious festival under tight security. The tension over the latest terrorist attacks in France did not deter people from going to church in Nice. The authorities allowed exemption during coronavirus lockdown. However, the recent stabbings had had some effect on people.

"I was apprehensive, I was scared of coming," said Claudia, 49, as she went to church, reassured by the presence of heavily armed soldiers. 
"We need to show that we are not scared and we are here," she said, following several other worshippers into the church.

A group of Muslim imams and their families attended a mass on Sunday at the Saint-Esprit de Bagatelle church in Toulouse to create mutual understanding.&nbsp;

"These people, without mind or reason, want to make another (Koran) interpretation," Lahouary Siali from the Al-Rahma mosque said, referring to violent extremists. "We strongly reject it."

He then read a prayer in Arabic in front of the congregation.

Meanwhile the police have made two new arrests in connection with Nice attack.

'Came to kill'

In Nice, authorities are now holding a total of six people for questioning to understand if they were linked to suspected attacker Brahim Issaoui, 21.&nbsp;

The latest people to be detained, aged 25 and 63, were arrested Saturday at the residence of an individual detained earlier in the day, a judicial source told AFP, asking not to be named.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/magazine-like-charlie-hebdo-could-not-exist-in-russia-says-kremlin-339429">Magazine like Charlie Hebdo 'could not exist' in Russia, says Kremlin</a>

Three others detained earlier over suspected links to Issaoui remain in custody, with the probe focusing on two telephones seized from the attacker.

Issaoui was shot by police multiple times and is currently in a serious condition in hospital. Investigators have been unable to question him and sources close to the probe have said his precise motivations remain unclear.

But Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin said that Issaoui "had clearly gone there (to Nice) to kill".

"Otherwise how can we explain why he armed himself with several knifes having only just arrived?... He clearly did not come just to get his papers," Darmanin told the Voix du Nord newspaper.

Investigators believe Issaoui travelled illegally to Europe via Italy's Mediterranean island of Lampedusa on September 20.&nbsp;

He arrived at the mainland Italian port of Bari on October 9 before coming to Nice just two days before the attack.

Understand 'shock'

France is on edge after the republication in early September of cartoons of the prophet Mohammed by the Charlie Hebdo weekly, which was followed by an attack outside its former offices, the beheading of a teacher and now the attack in Nice.

On Saturday, an attacker armed with a sawn-off shotgun seriously wounded a Greek Orthodox priest in a shooting outside a church in the French city of Lyon.

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Nikolaos Kakavelaki, 52, was closing his Lyon church mid-afternoon when he was attacked and is now in a serious condition in hospital, said a police source who asked not to be named.

The attacker fled the scene but Lyon's public prosecutor later announced that a suspect had been arrested while adding that the motivation for the attack was not clear.

Macron had vowed after the beheading of teacher Samuel Paty -- who had showed his class a cartoon of the prophet -- that France would never renounce the right to caricature.

This comment prompted a storm of anger in the Muslim world and on Saturday the president gave an interview to Al-Jazeera television saying he understood that people could be "shocked" by the cartoons.

But Macron added he would always defend freedom of speech and lashed out at "lies" -- sometimes spread by political leaders -- that the French state was behind the cartoons.

Charlie Hebdo had republished the cartoons to mark the start of the trial of suspected accomplices in the 2015 massacre of its staff by Islamist gunmen. The trial has been suspended until Wednesday after the primary suspect tested positive for coronavirus.

(With AFP inputs)

Catholics in France on Sunday celebrated the All Saints religious festival under tight security. The tension over the latest terrorist attacks in France did not deter people from going to church in Nice.

Catholics in France on Sunday celebrated the All Saints religious festival under tight security. The tension over the latest terrorist attacks in France did not deter people from going to church in Nice. The authorities allowed exemption during coronavirus lockdown. However, the recent stabbings had had some effect on people. "I was apprehensive, I was scared of coming," said Claudia, 49, as she went to church, reassured by the presence of heavily armed soldiers. "We need to show that we are not scared and we are here," she said, following several other worshippers into the church. A group of Muslim imams and their families attended a mass on Sunday at the Saint-Esprit de Bagatelle church in Toulouse to create mutual understanding. "These people, without mind or reason, want to make another (Koran) interpretation," Lahouary Siali from the Al-Rahma mosque said, referring to violent extremists. "We strongly reject it." He then read a prayer in Arabic in front of the congregation. Meanwhile the police have made two new arrests in connection with Nice attack. 'Came to kill' In Nice, authorities are now holding a total of six people for questioning to understand if they were linked to suspected attacker Brahim Issaoui, 21. The latest people to be detained, aged 25 and 63, were arrested Saturday at the residence of an individual detained earlier in the day, a judicial source told AFP, asking not to be named. Also Read | Magazine like Charlie Hebdo 'could not exist' in Russia, says Kremlin Three others detained earlier over suspected links to Issaoui remain in custody, with the probe focusing on two telephones seized from the attacker. Issaoui was shot by police multiple times and is currently in a serious condition in hospital. Investigators have been unable to question him and sources close to the probe have said his precise motivations remain unclear. But Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin said that Issaoui "had clearly gone there (to Nice) to kill". "Otherwise how can we explain why he armed himself with several knifes having only just arrived?... He clearly did not come just to get his papers," Darmanin told the Voix du Nord newspaper. Investigators believe Issaoui travelled illegally to Europe via Italy's Mediterranean island of Lampedusa on September 20. He arrived at the mainland Italian port of Bari on October 9 before coming to Nice just two days before the attack. Understand 'shock' France is on edge after the republication in early September of cartoons of the prophet Mohammed by the Charlie Hebdo weekly, which was followed by an attack outside its former offices, the beheading of a teacher and now the attack in Nice. On Saturday, an attacker armed with a sawn-off shotgun seriously wounded a Greek Orthodox priest in a shooting outside a church in the French city of Lyon. × Nikolaos Kakavelaki, 52, was closing his Lyon church mid-afternoon when he was attacked and is now in a serious condition in hospital, said a police source who asked not to be named. The attacker fled the scene but Lyon's public prosecutor later announced that a suspect had been arrested while adding that the motivation for the attack was not clear. Macron had vowed after the beheading of teacher Samuel Paty -- who had showed his class a cartoon of the prophet -- that France would never renounce the right to caricature. This comment prompted a storm of anger in the Muslim world and on Saturday the president gave an interview to Al-Jazeera television saying he understood that people could be "shocked" by the cartoons. But Macron added he would always defend freedom of speech and lashed out at "lies" -- sometimes spread by political leaders -- that the French state was behind the cartoons. Charlie Hebdo had republished the cartoons to mark the start of the trial of suspected accomplices in the 2015 massacre of its staff by Islamist gunmen. The trial has been suspended until Wednesday after the primary suspect tested positive for coronavirus. (With AFP inputs)

French Catholics pray under heavy security on All Saints festival

Even as France and French President face a barrage of negative comments from countries like Turkey, Pakistan among others, New Delhi stood by Paris four times in the last 2 days. India is the first 'Non-Western' country to support Macron publicly. So far, Italy, Germany, Canada, Netherlands have come in full public support for the French leader.

Thursday saw the Indian Prime Minister condemning the terror attacks in France. He tweeted," I strongly condemn the recent terrorist attacks in France, including today's heinous attack in Nice inside a church. Our deepest and heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and the people of France. India stands with France in the fight against terrorism."

Thursday saw 2 knife attack in France, one in Nice in which 3 people died in a Knife attack at a Church, another in Avignon, in which the attacker was killed. On the same day, a guard at the French consulate at the Saudi city of Jeddah was attacked.&nbsp;

While Indian PM tweeted, India's foreign secretary Harsh V Shringla is on a weeklong European tour, with his visit starting from Paris. During his meeting with Emmanuel Bonne, diplomatic advisor to French President Macron, India's foreign secretary extended Indian government's condolences on the terror attack in France and conveyed PM Modi's message that India stands with France in the fight against terrorism.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-are-in-a-war-french-minister-says-country-must-brace-itself-for-attacks-fueled-by-islamist-ideology-339015">'We are in a war': French minister says country must brace itself for attacks fueled by 'Islamist ideology'</a> 
 
He also reiterated the support during his address at a French Think Tank-- Institut Français des Relations Internationales (IFRI).&nbsp;

Shringla said, "It was horrifying to hear about the two recent terrorist incidents in France, one of which, as is very often the case, had its origins in our western neighbourhood – Pakistan. For the past three decades, we have experienced what unbridled radicalism can wreak – and what malevolent violent forces it can unleash."

The first public support came on Wednesday evening in a statement by India's Ministry of External Affairs. In a clear statement extending Delhi's backing of Paris, MEA said, "We strongly deplore the personal attacks in unacceptable language on President Emmanuel Macron in violation of the most basic standards of international discourse."

Remember Turkish President has been making personal remarks on Macron, including saying he needs "mental treatment".

India also condemned the "brutal terrorist attack that took the life of a French teacher in a gruesome manner that has shocked the world. We offer our condolences to his family and the people of France. There is no justification for terrorism for any reason or under any circumstance."

The current focus on extremism in France started in the country after a 47-year-old French teacher Samuel Paty was beheaded in a knife attack. After the incident the French president said, his country will stand by its secular values.

Interestingly, while the Indian Govt has backed the French govt, it is the virtual world that also saw a lot of support. #IstandWithFrance has been trending on India twitter, something French outlets have said started from India and then took to other parts of the virtual world.

Even as France and French President face a barrage of negative comments from countries like Turkey, Pakistan among others, New Delhi stood by Paris four times in the last 2 days.

Even as France and French President face a barrage of negative comments from countries like Turkey, Pakistan among others, New Delhi stood by Paris four times in the last 2 days. India is the first 'Non-Western' country to support Macron publicly. So far, Italy, Germany, Canada, Netherlands have come in full public support for the French leader. Thursday saw the Indian Prime Minister condemning the terror attacks in France. He tweeted," I strongly condemn the recent terrorist attacks in France, including today's heinous attack in Nice inside a church. Our deepest and heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and the people of France. India stands with France in the fight against terrorism." Thursday saw 2 knife attack in France, one in Nice in which 3 people died in a Knife attack at a Church, another in Avignon, in which the attacker was killed. On the same day, a guard at the French consulate at the Saudi city of Jeddah was attacked. While Indian PM tweeted, India's foreign secretary Harsh V Shringla is on a weeklong European tour, with his visit starting from Paris. During his meeting with Emmanuel Bonne, diplomatic advisor to French President Macron, India's foreign secretary extended Indian government's condolences on the terror attack in France and conveyed PM Modi's message that India stands with France in the fight against terrorism. Also Read | 'We are in a war': French minister says country must brace itself for attacks fueled by 'Islamist ideology' He also reiterated the support during his address at a French Think Tank-- Institut Français des Relations Internationales (IFRI). Shringla said, "It was horrifying to hear about the two recent terrorist incidents in France, one of which, as is very often the case, had its origins in our western neighbourhood – Pakistan. For the past three decades, we have experienced what unbridled radicalism can wreak – and what malevolent violent forces it can unleash." The first public support came on Wednesday evening in a statement by India's Ministry of External Affairs. In a clear statement extending Delhi's backing of Paris, MEA said, "We strongly deplore the personal attacks in unacceptable language on President Emmanuel Macron in violation of the most basic standards of international discourse." Remember Turkish President has been making personal remarks on Macron, including saying he needs "mental treatment". India also condemned the "brutal terrorist attack that took the life of a French teacher in a gruesome manner that has shocked the world. We offer our condolences to his family and the people of France. There is no justification for terrorism for any reason or under any circumstance." The current focus on extremism in France started in the country after a 47-year-old French teacher Samuel Paty was beheaded in a knife attack. After the incident the French president said, his country will stand by its secular values. Interestingly, while the Indian Govt has backed the French govt, it is the virtual world that also saw a lot of support. #IstandWithFrance has been trending on India twitter, something French outlets have said started from India and then took to other parts of the virtual world.

India stood with France four times in last two days

United Nations said on Monday that more than 1280 Afghan civilians were killed in first six months of the year as fighting raged in Afghanistan in spite of a pact between the US and Taliban.&nbsp;

United Nations said on Monday that more than 1280 Afghan civilians were killed in first six months of the year as fighting raged in Afghanistan in spite of a pact between the US and Taliban. A) said in a report.

“The reality remains that Afghanistan continues to be one of the deadliest conflicts in the world for civilians,” it said in the mid-year report.

In spite of a drop of 13 per cent in casualties from the corresponding period of the last year, the UN said that Taliban continued to cause majority of civilian casualties. The Taliban were responsible for 43 per cent of civilian casualties and government forces caused 23 per cent.

In February, the United States and the Taliban signed an agreement in Doha, laying out plans for the withdrawal of foreign forces from Afghanistan in exchange for security guarantees from the militants.

However, fighting has spiked in recent weeks, prompted by differences over an exchange of prisoners between the Taliban and Afghan government, as Kabul proved reluctant to free hundreds of jailed militants.

The Doha deal provided for the government to release 5,000 Taliban prisoners in exchange for hundreds of Afghan troops, the main plank in starting peace negotiations between the two sides in the effort to end the 18-year-old war.

While the Afghan government has released more than 4,000 Taliban prisoners, it has refused to release another 600, saying they were involved in murder, illicit drug trafficking and major attacks.

United Nations said on Monday that more than 1280 Afghan civilians were killed in first six months of the year as fighting raged in Afghanistan in spite of a pact between the US and Taliban.

United Nations said on Monday that more than 1280 Afghan civilians were killed in first six months of the year as fighting raged in Afghanistan in spite of a pact between the US and Taliban. United Nations said on Monday that more than 1280 Afghan civilians were killed in first six months of the year as fighting raged in Afghanistan in spite of a pact between the US and Taliban. A) said in a report. “The reality remains that Afghanistan continues to be one of the deadliest conflicts in the world for civilians,” it said in the mid-year report. In spite of a drop of 13 per cent in casualties from the corresponding period of the last year, the UN said that Taliban continued to cause majority of civilian casualties. The Taliban were responsible for 43 per cent of civilian casualties and government forces caused 23 per cent. In February, the United States and the Taliban signed an agreement in Doha, laying out plans for the withdrawal of foreign forces from Afghanistan in exchange for security guarantees from the militants. However, fighting has spiked in recent weeks, prompted by differences over an exchange of prisoners between the Taliban and Afghan government, as Kabul proved reluctant to free hundreds of jailed militants. The Doha deal provided for the government to release 5,000 Taliban prisoners in exchange for hundreds of Afghan troops, the main plank in starting peace negotiations between the two sides in the effort to end the 18-year-old war. While the Afghan government has released more than 4,000 Taliban prisoners, it has refused to release another 600, saying they were involved in murder, illicit drug trafficking and major attacks.

Nearly 3500 Afghans killed or hurt in first half of 2020: UN

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