Kerry asks Pakistan to take on LeT, put ISI under civil control
By IANS,
New Delhi : Intensifying international pressure on Pakistan in the wake of the Mumbai carange, influential US Senator John Kerry, a close aide to US President-elect Barack Obama, Monday said Islamabad should take on the Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and bring the spy agency ISI under civilian control.
"It's imperative to comply and terrorist camps should be shut down," Kerry told reporters after holding talks with External Affairs Minister Pranab Mukherjee.
Court reissues death warrant for Pakistani convict
Islamabad : A Pakistan court on Tuesday reissued death warrants for former Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) worker Saulat Mirza confirming his execution on April...
Pakistan must cooperate in terror probe: Rice
By IANS,
London : The United States has told Pakistan it expects nothing short of complete cooperation in the investigations into last week's macabre terror attacks in India's Mumbai city, Pakistan's Online news agency reported Tuesday.
"What we are emphasizing to the Pakistani government is the need to follow the evidence wherever it leads," Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice said Monday.
Pakistan Violence Kills 50
By Prensa Latina,
Islamabad : The last events in several Pakistani areas near the Afghanistan border confirmed violence and became accentuated Monday, leaving about 50 dead and 40 wounded.
The Geo TV private channel affirmed that at least ten people died Monday when a missile hit a residence in the conflictive Swat Valley, in the north, an attack that was vindicated by Islamic rebels from Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) movement.
10 dead, 45 wounded in Iraq suicide bombing
By IANS,
Baghdad : At least 10 people were killed and over 45 wounded Monday when a suicide bomber blew up his car packed with explosives in Baghdad, authorities said.
Lack of rights hampers progress in Arab nations: UN
New York, July 22 (DPA) The lack of human rights, political and social justice as well as a stable environment has prevented individuals in Arab countries from improving, the UN Development Programme said Tuesday.
The UNDP said human security is a prerequisite for human development. But the widespread absence of security in Arab countries has reduced the ability of an Arab person to make good choices for his or her life.
11 Taliban killed in Afghanistan
By IANS,
Kabul : As many as 11 Taliban militants have been killed since Sunday during joint operations by Afghan forces and NATO-led coalition troops in the country, authorities said Monday.
Karzai hints at running for second term
By DPA
Kabul : Afghanistan's President Hamid Karzai Sunday hinted that he intended to run for a second term to fulfil his unfinished "goals".
Karzai, who was talking to a group of journalists in his fortified presidential palace, said that he was not happy to contest for the next presidential poll, but "the goals that I set some five to six years ago, I have fulfilled some them, but a big portion of that (goals) have yet to be finished."
Trade, travel across LoC not affected by India-Pakistan chill
By IANS,
Jammu : The movement of goods and people across the Line of Control (LOC) between India and Pakistan in Jammu and Kashmir has not been affected by the chill in relations between two countries post the 26/11 Mumbai attack, officials say.
The weekly crossing of people to and from Chakan-da-Bagh in Poonch district of Jammu region is going on smoothly.
2nd Saudi Orthopaedic Association International Meeting
By SPA,
Jeddah : Prince Misha'al bin Majid bin Abdulaziz, the Governor of Jeddah, will patronize here on 10- 14 January 2009 the opening of the Second Saudi Orthopaedic Association Meeting to be held at King Abdulaziz University (KAU) with participation of 350 experts and surgeons in the filed of Orthopaedology.
The Saudi Orthopaedic Association (SOASSN) has been approved on 3rd Rabi Al Thani 1426 (11th May 2005). This association is under the umbrella of King Saud University, Riyadh.
Heavy fighting erupts in southern Iraq
By Xinhua
Basra, Iraq : Heavy fighting broke out between Iraqi security forces and the Mahdi Army Shiite militia in Iraq's southern city of Basra on Tuesday, a local security source and witnesses said.
Sounds of explosions and machinegun fire resonated in the city overnight and in the morning soon after the Iraqi security forces surrounded several of the city's neighborhoods which are known as Mahdi Army militia strongholds, witnesses at the scene told Xinhua on condition of anonymity.
Over 570,000 voters in Addis Ababa get ID
By NNN-ENA
Addis Ababa : More than 570, 000 eligible voters in the metropolis have got registered to cast votes in the upcoming local and by-elections, the National Electoral Board of Ethiopia (NEBE) said.
City’s election coordinator with the board, Desta Hailemicheal told ENA that the stated number of voters were registered at 2,000 polling stations established in different parts of the city until 24 Jan. 2008.
Gaza “a huge challenge” – Blair
By NNN-KUNA,
London : Former British Prime Minister Tony Blair has said he is appalled by the destruction caused by the recent fighting in Gaza.
He was visiting the territory for the first time since he became a Middle East envoy two years ago.
On a separate visit, British International Development Secretary Douglas Alexander said Britain would give 30 million pounds towards rebuilding damaged homes in Gaza.
Both he and Blair are due to attend a donors' conference in Egypt's Sharm El-Sheikh on Monday which will discuss reconstruction.
US calls Syrian president ’cause of instability’
By IANS,
Washington : The US has said it does not want Syrian President Bashar al-Assad remaining in power, as he was the "cause of instability" in his country.
Afghan president condemns US for killing civilians in air raids
By IRNA,
Kabul : President Hamid Karzai on Saturday condemned US air strikes which killed the Afghan civilians.
He said that the US hadn't coordinated the air attacks with local security officials in Azizabad village.
He said "at least 70 innocent civilians, most of them women and children" were killed.
Karzai said in a statement that the Afghan government would soon announce "necessary measures" to prevent civilian casualties in the future.
Powerful blast at police headquarters in Islamabad
By IANS,
Islamabad : A powerful blast shook the police headquarters here Wednesday, officials said. It was not immediately known if there were any casualties.
The explosion was heard more than 10 km away. "It seems to be a suicide attack," said a police officer.
Residents of the neighbourhood said that smoke could be seen coming out of the police headquarters that is located near two main universities and three hospitals.
Although it was not immediately clear if anyone was injured or killed, TV channels quoted officials as saying heavy casualties were feared.
Taliban commander killed in Pakistan
By IANS,
Islamabad : A Pakistani Taliban commander was gunned down by police, Dawn reported Tuesday.
Amin Fahim still front runner in PPP for PM slot: Babar
ISLAMABAD, Mar 3 (APP): Pakistan People’s Party spokesman Farhatullah Babar said Monday that Makhdoom Amin Fahim was still the front runner for the slot of prime minister but a decision would be made by the party’s Central Executive Committee. Talking to a private television channel, Babar said that in the first high level meeting of the party at Naudero after the assassination of Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto it was stated that Makhdoom Amin Fahim would be parliamentary leader of the party in the National Assembly.
Pakistani public opinion trend on US-Pakistan ties encourages Washington
By NNN-APP,
Washington : The United States has been encouraged by the recent trends in Pakistani public opinion recognizing the importance of US-Pakistan strategic partnership, which takes into account the needs of the key regional anti-terrorism ally, the State Department said.
“We are encouraged by the recent trends in Pakistani public opinion that recognize the value of the ongoing strategic dialogue and ever-improving cooperation between the United States and Pakistan,” Assistant Secretary of State P J Crowley, said.
Toxic liquor kills 27 in Pakistan
Islamabad : At least 27 people were killed after consuming toxic liquor in Pakistan's Karachi city, media reported Thursday.
According to the Jinnah Postgraduate Medical...
Drone strike, militant attacks kill 17 in Pakistan
By DPA,
Islamabad : A suspected US missile strike killed 12 Taliban militants Wednesday in Pakistan's restive tribal region, while suspected terrorists ambushed a police patrol, killing five police personnel in the northwest, officials said.
Two missiles believed to have been fired by a US drone hit a compound in Khadezai village of the Orakzai Agency, one of seven semi-autonomous tribal districts known to serve as sanctuaries for Al Qaeda and Taliban rebels.
NATO soldier dies, 13 militants detained in Afghanistan
By Zhang Yunlong, Xinhua,
Kabul : One soldier serving the NATO-led military died in southern Afghanistan as 13 militants were detained during an Afghan and U.S.-led Coalition operation in eastern province Paktia, the NATO and Coalition said Wednesday.
One soldier of the NATO-led International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) died of wounds and one was injured Tuesday during an engagement with insurgents, said an ISAF statement. It did not release the casualty's nationality or gave more details.
Iran receives US official note to hold talks on Iraq: FM
By NNN-IRNA
Tehran : Iran has received an official note from US officials to hold the fourth round of talks on Iraq, Foreign Ministry spokesman Mohammad-Ali Hosseini said.
"We are studying the US officials' repeated request which was sent to us as an official note to hold new round of talks on Iraq," Hosseini told his weekly press conference here Monday.
The fourth round of talks between Iranian and US officials on Iraq's security situation was expected to be held on March 6, but was cancelled at the last minute.
Top commander in Iraq to head US forces in Middle East
By DPA,
Washington : The top US commander in Iraq, General David Petraeus, has been named chief of US military operations in the Middle East, US Defence Secretary Robert Gates announced Wednesday.
If confirmed by the Senate, Petraeus, a four-star general, will replace Admiral William Fallon, who stepped down in March as head of US Central Command.
Central Command, based in Tampa, Florida, oversees military operations in the Middle East and parts of Africa and South Asia, including Afghanistan, and is at the forefront of the war on terrorism.
Clash between militants, outlaws leave seven dead in Pakistan
By DPA,
Islamabad : At least seven people were killed in an overnight gun battle between pro-Taliban militants and suspected criminals in Pakistan's lawless tribal territory along the border with Afghanistan, an official said Sunday.
Taliban forces attacked the gang's hideout in Michni area of Mohmand tribal district, which adjoins the North-West Frontier Province, according to a local administration official.
"Three Taliban and four suspected criminals were killed in the gun fight that continued till late night," the official said. At least two more people were injured.
Iranian vice president visits Syria to boost bilateral ties
By ANTARA News/Xinhua
Damascus : Visiting Iranian First Vice President Parviz Davoudi on Wednesday held talks with Syrian Prime Minister Mohammad Naji Ottri, seeking to boost bilateral ties in the economic and cultural fields, the official SANA news agency reported.
During the meeting, the two sides reviewed the issues on the agenda of the 10th session of the Syrian-Iranian Higher Committee and the proper mechanism for activating the agreements signed between the two countries, said SANA.
Lift ban on YouTube, demands Pakistani daily
Islamabad: A leading Pakistani daily on Thursday demanded that the ban on YouTube in Pakistan must be lifted and wondered whether it was "one...
Pakistan’s economy nosedives, inflation at 19.2 percent
By IANS,
Islamabad : Pakistan's economy has been in free-fall mode in the first 100 days of the new coalition government, with inflation at 19.2 percent, forex reserves plunging by $2.1 billion and the rupee depreciating by Rs.8.3 against the US dollar.
Public debt during this period has swelled by Rs.373.5 billion or by Rs.3.70 billion per day, The News reported Tuesday, saying "these shocking disclosures based on hard facts were gathered after deep investigation".
Nigerian troops, Boko Haram militants exchange gunfire
Abuja : Heavy gunfire was heard Monday from the scene of a gunfight between Nigerian security forces and suspected members of the Boko Haram...
Palestinian President: security & economy only path for peace
By NNN-WAFA,
Bethlehem : President Mahmoud Abbas reiterated that security and economy is the path for peace, adding other than that frustration, extremism and devastation would prevail.
Opening the Palestine Investment Conference in Bethlehem on Wednesday, he said that the final status issues are being under discussion with the Israeli sides, hoping no delay on any issue.
'The comprehensive development in Palestine will face many obstacles until ending the occupation and establishing a viable and independent Palestinian state,' Abbas said.
Blair calls for ending Israeli occupation, removing checkpoints in W. Bank
By KUNA
Ramallah : Quartet special envoy Tony Blair stressed Thursday the importance of ending the Israeli occupation and removing all military barriers and checkpoints in the West Bank, in order to achieve true peace.
In a press conference held in Nablus, which Blair was visiting for the first time, the former British premier said he clearly understood the tragedy that the Palestinians lived in in this city, brought about by occupation and checkpoints.
Hamas, Jihad hail Hezbollah attack on Israeli army
Gaza : The Islamic Hamas movement and the Islamic Jihad (Holy War) Wednesday hailed the attack of Hezbollah on an Israeli army patrol on...
Ten civilians killed as Pakistan army targets militants
By DPA
Islamabad : At least 10 civilians were killed overnight as artillery shells fired by security forces missed militant positions and landed in a residential area in Pakistan's restive northwest Swat valley, media reports said Saturday.
The rounds destroyed a house in the village of Galooch in the Kabal area, leaving seven members of a family dead, local mayor Jafar Khan told Aaj news channel.
Three houses were destroyed in the nearby village of Kalakalley, Geo TV reported. Three people were killed and a woman injured in the incident.
Islamic Jihad calls for halting negotiations, assessing Gaza lull
By Xinhua,
Gaza : An Islamic Jihad leader on Saturday called on Palestinian factions to assess ceasefire with Israel andurged president Mahmoud Abbas to halt negotiations with the Jewishstate.
The six-month ceasefire, started in Gaza Strip in June, "must be fully reviewed as it endangers the Palestinian people's struggle instead of achieving anything good," said Nafez Azzam, anIslamic Jihad leader based in Gaza.
No immediate need for Musharraf’s impeachment: Amin Fahim
Islamabad, Feb 24, IRNA ,Pakistan People's Party (PPP) Vice Chairman Makhdoom Amin Fahim said there is no need for immediate impeachment of President Pervez Musharraf.
"However, the parliament is sovereign institution and it will take into consideration all issues, adding he does not want the confrontation at present."
He said, in an interview, PPP leadership is aware of all problems of the country; however, this is an organized party and has experts to cope with the problems.
Pakistan government to use Facebook for dengue awareness in Punjab
By IANS,
Islamabad : The Punjab government in Pakistan will spread public awareness on dengue through social networking site Facebook.
Iraqi PM welcomes new parliament speaker
Baghdad : Iraqi Prime Minister Nuri al-Maliki Wednesday welcomed the election of a speaker and two deputies for the violence-hit country's new parliament.
"I congratulate...
Three Pakistani cops held for murder
By IANS,
Islamabad : Three police officials have been arrested in Pakistan's port city of Karachi for allegedly killing a man they believed to be a dacoit.
Hamas leader calls for lift of blockade against Gaza
By Xinhua
Damascus : Exiled Hamas politburo chief Khaled Meshaal on Wednesday called upon Arab foreign ministers to take a decision in their next meeting to help lift the Israeli blockade against the Gaza Strip.
Meshaal, living in exile in Syria, made the call in a speech at a conference by radical Palestinian groups, which opened in Damascus earlier in the day.
Lifting of sanctions conducive to final n-deal: Iran
Tehran : Lifting all sanctions against Iran over its nuclear programme will help Tehran and world powers reach a final agreement regarding the issue,...
Israeli army official: operations in Gaza continue
By Xinhua
Jerusalem : Israel army continues its defensive operations in the Gaza Strip, including attacks on Qassam rocket launching cells, while refraining from striking other militant targets, a senior army official was quoted by local daily Yedioth Ahronoth as saying on Monday.
Majority of UAE residents aware of driving dangers
By IANS/WAM,
Abu Dhabi: A whopping majority of people in the UAE - 99 percent - are aware of the dangers of driving without a seat-belt, according to a national driving survey.
Dubai to have museum of Middle East modern art
By IANS,
Dubai : Work on a new museum of Middle East modern art has been launched here at the initiative of Vice President and Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Ruler of Dubai Sheikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum.
Located in Dubai’s Culture Village on the banks of Khor Dubai or Dubai Creek, the museum is being designed by Netherlands-based architectural firm UN Studio, which would bring together elements of the sea and Dubai’s tradition of seafaring, the state-run Emirates News Agency (WAM) reported.
Iraq says near agreement with US on military pact
By AFP,
Baghdad : Iraq said on Wednesday it was on the verge of agreeing a controversial pact with the United States to govern US troop levels and ground rules in the nation beyond 2008 when a UN mandate expires.
Tough negotiations between Washington and Baghdad on the security deal has made recent progress and an initial framework arrangement is "almost finalised," Foreign Minister Hoshyar Zebari told a press briefing.
Lebanese to overcome obstacles to “tranquility”: Maronite Patriarch
By Xinhua
Beirut : Lebanese Maronite Patriarch Nasrallah Butros Sfeir has voiced hope that Lebanon would overcomeall the obstacles it is witnessing for the sake of the country, The Daily Star reported on Thursday.
"All Lebanese should cooperate in favor of their country, whichis going through a very tough period," Sfeir was quoted as saying before a delegation of Lebanese Forces students on Wednesday.
"We are doing our best to help Lebanon return to normalcy whereall of its residents live in tranquility," he added.
Suicide bomber targeting Afghan minister killed
By IANS,
Kabul : Police in Afghanistan shot dead a suicide bomber Sunday while he was trying to target Afghanistan's Interior Minister Bismillah Khan Mohammadi, Xinhua reported.
Inconvenient US-Pakistan marriage being recalibrated: Daily
By IANS,
Islamabad : The "inconvenient marriage" of Pakistan and US struggles on, an English daily said Friday as it noted that the relationship was being recalibrated.
Six killed in Afghanistan bomb attack
By IANS,
Kabul : At least six people were killed and 19 injured in a bomb attack in Afghanistan's Kandhar city Tuesday, said an official.
Live peacefully or leave, foreigners told in North Waziristan
Islamabad: The Taliban Shura has asked foreign militants and supporters of the proscribed Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) to either live peacefully or leave North Waziristan,...
Verification must before foreigners rent houses in Pakistan
By IANS,
Islamabad : In a bid to prevent terrorist attacks on foreigners, the Pakistani government has decreed that foreign nationals need police clearance before they can rent houses in this federal capital and in the four provincial capitals.
The measure is already in force in Islamabad and would be extended in phases to the provincial capitals of Lahore, Peshawar, Quetta and Karachi, Online news agency reported Tuesday, quoting sources.
The police would provide no objection certificates on behalf of landlords and strict
action would be taken against violators, they said.
Pentagon says Pakistan nuclear weapons secure, lauds protection steps
By NNN-APP
Washington : A top US military leader on Friday reaffirmed confidence in the security of Pakistan’s nuclear assets and praised the steps the Pakistani leadership has taken to ensure their protection.
“I am very comfortable that nuclear weapons in Pakistan are secure and Pakistani leadership has taken steps to ensure that security,” Admiral Mike Mullen, Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff told a Pentagon news conference.
The top US military officer said he will be traveling to Pakistan shortly to meet with Pakistani leaders.
Pakistani minister says no consent given to US for raids in Pakistan
By IRNA,
Islamabad : Pakistan's Information Minister said Monday President Zardari has not given any form of consent to United States or allied forces to carry out strikes inside Pakistan.
Zardari told the Wall Street Journal that the U.S missile strikes in Pakistani tribal regions is under an understanding between the two countries.
"Unilateral actions by the U.S often serve as a setback to our joint efforts against terrorism, " Sherry Rehman said in a statement as Zardari statement has evoked strong resentment in the country.
13 killed in Afghan floods
By IANS,
Kabul: Heavy rains and floods have killed 13 people, including two kids, while leaving hundreds of people homeless in Afghanistan's Balkh province, police said Wednesday.
Oil prices to stay high, upping output won’t help: Saudi Arabia
By IANS,
Dubai : Increasing production will not pull down spiralling oil prices and indications are that prices will remain high, according to Saudi Arabia's King Abdullah Bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud.
"People who think that oil prices will go down once production is raised are wrong because there are indications that prices will remain high," King Abdullah said in an interview to Kuwaiti daily Arab Times.
Many in Pakistan opposed to safe passage for Musharraf
By Muhammad Najeeb, IANS,
Islamabad : A large number of politicians, lawyers and civil rights leaders are opposed to the idea of Pervez Musharraf being given safe passage out of the country after his resignation as president, though there are reports his bete noire Nawaz Sharif has agreed to it after a meeting with an envoy from Saudi Arabia.
Israel resumes limited quantity of fuel shipments to Gaza
By Xinhua,
Gaza : A senior Palestinian official said Israel on Wednesday resumed supply of a limited quantity of fuel into the Gaza Strip after an interruption which lasted for one month.
Ahmed Ali, Deputy Chief of Gaza Petrol Corporation in Gaza, told reporters that the quantity of fuel Israel allowed into Gaza Wednesday "is meager and little and won't absolutely solve the fuel crisis in the Gaza Strip."
The fuel shipments into Gaza "don't exceed 130,000 liters of diesel out of 20 million liters of fuel that the enclave needs to resolve the crisis," Ali said.
Zardari to chair special Sindh cabinet meeting Monday
By IANS,
Karachi : Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari has summoned a special meeting of the Sindh cabinet Monday to review the performance of the provincial government.
The president would be briefed by the ministers on their performance in the education, health and irrigation works and services areas, Online news agency reported, quoting sources.
The president had received complaints on several occasions that the provincial education department had still not issued offer letters to the candidates who passed their teachers exams on merit, the sources added.
Indian family refuses to receive body of MERS victim
Riyadh: The family of an Indian expatriate, who died of Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) corona virus in Saudi Arabia, has refused to receive...
France to send more troops to Afghanistan
By DPA
Bucharest : France has pledged to send a "substantial" number of additional troops to NATO's mission in Afghanistan, a NATO spokesman said Wednesday at the end of the first day of the alliance's summit in Bucharest.
"The French government has offered a substantial military contribution to the operation in Afghanistan for the east of the country," NATO spokesman James Appathurai told journalists.
Pakistan briefs Turkey over ties with India
By Xinhua,
Islamabad : Pakistani Foreign Minister Makhdoom Shah Mahmood Qureshi Sunday briefed Turkish Foreign Minister Ali Babacan about relations with India following the terror attacks in Mumbai.
Babacan telephoned his Pakistani counterpart to discuss bilateral relations and to share views on regional and global situation, according to a statement by the Pakistani foreign ministry.
Pakistani leaders are contacting leaders of friendly countries and their ambassadors in Islamabad to apprise them of their position over the Mumbai mayhem that killed 183 people.
Elite US forces to counter Pakistani nuke hijacks: Report
By IANS,
London/Islamabad : The US army is training a crack unit "to seal off and snatch back Pakistani nuclear weapons in the event that militants, possibly from inside the country's security apparatus, get their hands on a nuclear device or materials that could make one", a media report said Sunday but Islamabad termed it "outlandish".
The specialized unit would be charged with recovering the nuclear materials and securing them, Times Online said.
11 killed in mosque blast in southern Iran
By IANS,
Shiraz (Iran) : At least 11 people were killed and some 200 wounded in a blast in the capital city of Iran's southern province of Fars, IRNA reported Sunday.
A powerful explosion at Rahpouyan-e Vessal cultural center that is part of a mosque, located in a residential area of the city, took place around 9:00 pm (1630 GMT) Saturday during an evening sermon by a prominent local cleric.
A committee has been formed to investigate the explosion, provincial governor Hojatoleslam Jaber Baneshi said after an emergency meeting to review the situation.
Arab Interim Parliament urges Arab, Islamic countries to sever ties with Denmark
By NNN-KUNA
Cairo : Arab Interim Parliament (AIP) called on Arab and Islamic countries to sever political and economic relations with Denmark because of the republication of caricatures of Prophet Mohammad (PBUH).
The AIP, in a statement during its regular session Saturday, praised the Sudanese government for suspending political and economic ties with Denmark, as well as the Yemeni parliament which severed parliamentary ties with Denmark.
European Assembly of Muslim Imams and Spiritual Guides formed
By KUNA
Brussels : Muslims in Europe took another important step Saturday to preserve their identity and to present the correct image of Islam to Europeans.
The European Assembly of Muslim Imams and Spiritual Guides ( Al-Tagammu Al-Urubi Lillaimah val Murshideen) was formed today in the presence of over 100 Imams and preachers from all over Europe following a meeting in a central hotel of Brussels today.
12 injured in Pakistan blast
By IANS,
Islamabad : At least 12 people have been injured in a blast in Noshera district of Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province, reported Xinhua.
100 Britons jailed in France for smuggling migrants
London: At least 100 Britons have been jailed in France in the last year for trying to smuggle migrants through the port town of...
Iran seeks India’s backing for Tehran disarmament meet
By IANS,
New Delhi: Four days after the US-led Nuclear Security Summit in the US, Iran, under intense international pressure over its nuclear programme, will be hosting a conference on nuclear disarmament and has sought India's support for this initiative.
Iran is likely to invite India formally for the conference entitled "Nuclear Energy for All, Nuclear Weapon for None", scheduled for April 17-18, diplomatic sources said here.
The Iranian leadership is also expected to iscuss the nuclear issue when External Affairs Minister S.M. Krishna visits Tehran, likely next month.
Taliban, Al Qaeda disown Peshawar blast
By IANS,
Islamabad : The Taliban and the Al Qaeda have distanced themselves from the deadly market blast in Peshawar that claimed 105 lives, saying they don't explode bombs in such areas, reported a Pakistani paper Thursday.
The News quoted an Al Qaeda statement as saying the group was not involved in the killing of innocent people. Most of those killed in the blast were women and children.
Israel”s Knesset seeks transparency on government talks with Arabs
By KUNA,
Gaza : Fifteen members of the Israeli Knesset external affairs committee have called for holding an urgent session for the legislative assembly to debate in a transparent manner behind-the-curtain talks between the government and the Palestinian authority.
The Israeli newspaper "Haaretz" reported in its Sunday edition that the legislators pressed for holding the extraordinary session of the Knesset to request reports about the informal talks between the government of Ehud Olmert with Mahmoud Abbas' authority.
Pakistan deliberately stifling 26/11 investigation: Chidambaram
By IANS,
New Delhi : Home Minister P. Chidamabaram has accused Pakistan of deliberately holding back investigations into the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks despite concrete evidence against the conspirators being presented to Islamabad linking Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) chief Hafiz Saeed to the carnage that killed over 170 people.
"They have not arrested the perpetrators of the Mumbai attack. They are still on Pakistani soil. We have shared the names with them. They are not investigating the case.
Fayyad: forming a transitional gov’t would unify territories
By Xinhua,
Ramallah : Salam Fayyad, prime minister of the Palestinian caretaker government, said Saturday that forming anew transitional government of national accordance would unify the Palestinian territories.
Fayyad told reporters in Ramallah that agreeing on forming an interim government of national accordance to prepare for new elections would be "a realistic introduction to unify the West Bank and the Gaza Strip."
Gunmen kill two Iraqi policemen
By SPA
Baghdad : Gunmen killed two Iraqi policemen Wednesday in western Mosul, police said.
The attack took place in the Bab Sinjar district around 9 a.m., they were quoted as saying by the Associated Press.
Two other policemen were wounded, along with a civilian, police said.
Mosul lies 360 kilometers (225 miles) northwest of Baghdad.
10 mn Pakistan voters not on electoral roll
By IANS,
Islamabad : Over 10 million eligible voters in Pakistan are missing from the draft electoral rolls, a media report said Saturday.
UAE remains committed to progress of political process in Iraq : Abdullah
By WAM,
Kuwait : The United Arab Emirates pledged on Tuesday to act through existing bilateral and collective frameworks to serve interests of Iraq and its people in order to sustain march of peace, security and stability in the region and the world at large.
Ethad plans to carry 25 million passengers by 2020
By NNN-WAM,
Abu Dhabi : Etihad Airways has set its sights on flying 25 million passengers a year by 2020, according to the Abu Dhabi-based airline's chief executive, James Hogan.
It is also envisages doubling the number of cities served from 50 to 100.
Hogan announced the ambitious targets when addressing the American media in New York, one of the legs of a special visit he conducted recently to the US and Canada.
Taliban threatens Afghan mobile telecom companies
By Xinhua
Kabul : Taliban Monday warned mobile telecommunication service companies to shut down at night their booster towers in Taliban-held areas in Afghanistan within three days, a statement released by the militants said.
"We are calling on all cellular phone service companies to shut down their activities from 5 p.m. to 7 a.m. (local time) next day in Taliban-held areas within three days," the statement read out by the outfit's purported spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid to media outlets in south Afghanistan said.
Arab League and Arab Security Council condemn US attack on Syria
By NNN-SANA,
Cairo : The Arab League general secretariat has condemned the US attack on Boukamal in north-eastern Syria that claimed the lives of innocent civilians.
In a statement issued Monday, the Arab League underlined that such a violation will not help stability in the region and opens the door for new tension in the region and destroy the credibility of the move toward peace and stability in Iraq and its neighbours.
The statement stressed solidarity with Syria in her right to defend her territories and protect her people.
Dubai Metro starts trial operations
By IANS,
Dubai : Dubai Metro, the world's largest automated driverless metro rail network, has commenced its trial run across an 11-km stretch in this Middle East metropolis.
Vice President and Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Ruler of Dubai Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum launched the trial between the Jebel Ali station to the south of the city and the Ibn Batuta Mall station Saturday, the official Emirates News Agency (WAM) reported Sunday.
Sheikh Mohammed was accompanied by a delegation of high-level officials at the launch.
Pakistan condemns bomb attacks in Bangalore, Ahmedabad
By NNN-PTI,
Islamabad : Condemning the bomb attacks in Bangalore and Ahmedabad, Pakistan Premier Yousuf Raza Gilani has described them as "dastardly acts of senseless violence" against innocent people.
The Pakistan Prime Minister "has strongly condemned the acts of terrorist violence in the Indian cities of Ahmedabad and Bangalore and expressed deep sympathies with the bereaved families and the victims of these dastardly acts of senseless violence against innocent persons," a statement issued by the Foreign Ministry here said on Sunday.
Taliban insurgents kill four policemen in gunfight
By Xinhua,
Kabul : At least four policemen have been killed and seven wounded in a gunfight with Taliban insurgents in the southern Afghan province of Helmand, an official said Sunday.
The insurgents ambushed the police patrol at a market place in Gereshk district Saturday, district police chief Khil Mohammad Shuja said.
The gunfight lasted for an hour. The police have arrested two insurgents from the spot.
Meanwhile, Taliban spokesman Qari Yusuf Ahmadi has confirmed Saturday's incident.
Jordan’s King heads to Russia for talks with Putin
By NNN-KUNA
Amman : Jordan's King Abdullah II headed to Moscow on Sunday on an official two-day visit, during which he would hold talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Means to develop bilateral relations, latest developments in the Mideast region, namely the Palestinian issue, in addition to other international state of affairs would be discussed during the meeting, a statement by the Royal Jordanian Court said.
King Abdullah is also expected to meet with First Deputy Prime Minister Dmitri Medvedev and a number of high government officials.
Fifteen militants killed in Afghanistan
By Xinhua,
Kabul : US-led coalition forces have killed 15 militants during an operation in Laghman province, some 60 km northeast of Afghan capital Kabul, a statement issued by the coalition here said Saturday.
The operation targeted a Taliban commander who carried out attacks in Kabul, Laghman and Kapisa provinces, including the August 2008 attack in which 10 French soldiers were killed, the statement said.
Another Bangladeshi burglar lynched in Tripura
Agartala : A thief from Bangladesh was lynched by an irate mob in Tripura, just over a week after three Bangladeshi cattle thieves were...
Promote culture to defeat terror: Pakistani minister
By IANS,
Islamabad: Terrorism can be defeated with the help of strong cultural values, a Pakistani minister has said.
33 Morsi supporters sentenced to jail
Cairo : An Egyptian court Monday sentenced 33 supporters of ousted president Mohamed Morsi to six years in jail, media reported.
The Islamist defendants were...
Israeli warplanes strike on Gaza, one killed
By DPA
Gaza City : Israeli warplanes carried out a series of air strikes on targets in the Gaza Strip, killing one Hamas militant and wounding around 10 people, witnesses and medics said.
The Israeli strikes came after militant groups continued launching homemade rockets Saturday from Gaza toward communities in southern Israel.
Israeli Radio reported that a Palestinian rocket fired from Gaza hit a house in the town of Sderot in southern Israel, wounding two Israelis including one child.
Pakistani journalist Hamid Mir to get security
By IANS,
Islamabad : Pakistani journalist Hamid Mir will be provided security after he received threats, said Interior Minister Rehman Malik.
Gilani warns of Taliban retaliation across Pakistan
By IANS,
Lahore : The gruesome car bombing in Peshawar Friday was not entirely unexpected and the Taliban could attempt to stage more such attacks in retaliation to the military operations being conducted against them in Pakistan's restive northwest, Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani said here Saturday.
"Such barbaric acts were expected as an aftermath or result of the action against the militants," he told reporters here after inaugurating a medical and dental college.
Establishment of Malaysia-Pakistan Joint Business Council at final stage
By NNN-Bernama,
Kuala Lumpur : The establishment of a Joint Business Council (JBC) between Pakistan and Malaysia is at the final stage, says the Pakistan High Commissioner (ambassador) to Malaysia, Liutenant-General (Rtd) Tahir Mahmud Qazi.
The formation of the JBC is being undertaken by the National Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Malaysia (NCCIM) and the Federation of Pakistan Chamber of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI).
Parliamentary panel outlines Pakistan’s new anti-terror plan
Islamabad : A working group of parliamentary parties in Pakistan Tuesday suggested measures ranging from formation of military courts to anti-terrorism council as part...
Pakistan shoots down NATO airstrike probe report
By IANS,
Islamabad : Pakistan has rejected the report of an investigation into last month's NATO airstrike that left two dozen Pakistani soldiers dead, saying it is "short on facts".
Seven killed in US drone strike in Pakistan
Islamabad : At least seven suspected militants were killed in a US drone strike along the Pakistan-Afghanistan border, media reported Sunday.
The attack was carried...
Pakistan confirms receiving evidence on Mumbai attacks
By Xinhua,
Islamabad : Pakistan Monday confirmed it has received evidence regarding Mumbai terror attacks from India, and "concerned authorities" were "examining the material".
India's Extrenal Affairs Minister Pranab Mukherjee Monday said that India has handed over evidence on the Mumbai attacks to Pakistan and expected a prompt investigation. Mukherjee said this material is linked to elements in Pakistan.
"The material has been received in Pakistan now and is being examined by concerned authorities," said Pakistani Foreign Ministry spokesman Mohammad Sadiq in a statement.
Cross LoC trade brings down firing, infiltrations
By IANS,
Jammu : It is just a fortnight since cross border trade between the Indian and Pakistani parts of Kashmir began, finding a good market for the goods on both sides of the divide. A welcome result of this has been a marked decline in the firing and infiltration attempts from the Pakistani side, said an army official.
The official, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said since trade across the Line of Control (LoC) began Oct 21, "the infiltration attempts and hence the cover fire has come down to negligible levels".
Jordan Islamic scholars ban hymen examinations
By DPA,
Amman: A top-level panel of Islamic scholars in Jordan has issued a judgement that bans the examination of a bride-to-be's virginity even if it is requested by her fiance, local newspapers reported Monday.
"The examination of hymens is taboo because the genitals of both men and women should not be exposed except out of necessity," according to the judgement issued by the state-funded Council of Eftaa and Islamic Studies.
Syrian opposition elects new leader
By IANS/RIA Novosti,
Moscow : Syria's main opposition group, the Syrian National Council (SNC), has elected Kurdish activist Abdel Basset Sieda as its new leader.
Cracks widening in US-Pakistan alliance against terrorism
By DPA,
Islamabad : As Taliban activities rise to a disturbing level in Afghanistan, the relations between two close allies in the war on terror - United States and Pakistan - seem to be souring.
Hours after Wednesday's statement by the Chairman of the US Joint Chiefs of Staff, Admiral Mike Mullen, that Washington was planning military operations to eliminate militant sanctuaries in Pakistan, Pakistan's army chief vowed to defend sovereignty and territorial integrity of the country "at all cost."
Five killed in Iraq bomb explosion
By Xinhua,
Baghdad : Five people were killed and 12 injured in a bomb explosion on the outskirts of Iraqi capital Monday, the interior ministry said.
The blast took place near a car repair workshop in the Abu Ghraib area, some 15 km west of Baghdad, it said.
Many people were gathered outside the workshop to have their cars repaired when the explosion occurred.
Despite the security gains in recent months in Iraq, sporadic bombings targeting Iraqi security forces have continued.
Olmert: Captive soldiers are dead
By SPA,
Al-Quds city, (Jerusalem) : An Israeli official says Prime Minister Ehud Olmert has told his Cabinet that two soldiers captured by Hezbollah fighters two years ago are dead.
The official says Olmert told his Cabinet that we know what happened to them. It is the first time that Israel has said definitively the two men are no longer alive.
Hezbollah has given no information on their conditions, the Associated Press reported.
Olmert made the comments during a Cabinet debate over a proposed prisoner swap with Hezbollah.
Growing violence in Iraq shakes security gains
By Xinhua
Baghdad : A spate of violence incidents led to the deaths of nearly 40 people in Iraq on Tuesday, exacerbating a worrisome security picture over the past two months.
Among the bloodshed on Tuesday, the deadliest occurred when a bus was hit by a roadside bomb near the southern city of Nasiriyah, about 375 km south of Baghdad, leaving at least 16 passengers dead and 22 others wounded.
An Iraqi interior ministry source said the bombing could have targeted a U.S. convey.
At least 26 dead in fresh Iraq violence
By DPA,
Baghdad: At least 26 people were killed in fresh violence on the western outskirts of Baghdad and in the disputed northern Iraqi city of Kirkuk Monday, police and medics said.
In Monday's bloodiest attack, at least 16 people were killed when men dressed in Iraqi military uniforms attacked members of a Sunni Arab tribe in the village of Zaidan, in the Abu Ghraib area on the western edge of Baghdad, police and villagers said.
Pakistan sets guidelines for foreign poll observers
By IANS
Islamabad : Pakistan has set stringent guidelines for more than 1,000 observers and foreign journalists expected to visit the country for the Feb 18 elections, with the move viewed as an attempt to restrict the visitors' movement.
Palestinians live in poverty
Ramallah – (IINA) January 23– The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) yesterday released a pessimistic report summarizing the living conditions of Palestinians in the West Bank and Gaza Strip in 2007. The report said that 49 percent of Palestinian households in the West Bank and 79 percent in the Gaza Strip live in poverty. At least 34 percent of Palestinians face “food insecurity” (which is defined as households with income and consumption of 1.6 dollars per day).
Israel recalls ambassador after Sweden recognises Palestinian state
Jerusalem: Israel recalled its ambassador to Sweden Thursday to protest the Scandinavian country's decision to recognise a Palestinian state, an Israeli foreign ministry source...
IAF air-ambulance lifts injured soldiers from Iran
By IANS
Chandigarh : An AN-32 transport aircraft of the Indian Air Force (IAF) converted into an air-ambulance has carried out a medical evacuation mission of critically injured Indian security personnel from a town in Iran.
The air-ambulance, belonging to 'Camels' - a squadron based at the air force station here, carried out the evacuation mission Jan 9 from Zabol town in Iran, bordering Afghanistan.
Suicidal Woman Kills 8 in Iraq
By Prensa Latina,
Baghdad : A bomb blast killed at least eight and wounded 24 in northern Iraq where national and foreign forces continued with the raids, to neutralize the rebels' activity.
A security source highlighted that a woman attired in with a belt with explosives detonated it, killing one commander of the popular committees or Councils Sahwa and seven other people in Baquba city, capital of Diyala northeastern province.
Israel releases 200 Palestinian prisoners
By RIA Novosti,
Tel Aviv : Israel will hand over on Monday a total of 198 Palestinian prisoners as a goodwill gesture to Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas ahead of a visit by Condoleezza Rice, a spokesperson for the prison service said.
The early release, approved by Israel on August 17, includes two Palestinians, who have served around 30 years in jail, convicted for their role in deadly attacks on Israelis. They are due to be handed over to the Palestinian authorities through the Beituniya checkpoint.
Three dead in Pakistan train attack
By IANS,
Islamabad : Firing and rocket attacks on a passenger train in southwest Pakistan Sunday left three people dead and 19 others injured, a media report said.
Afghan elders recommend peaceful means to end war
By KUNA
Kabul : Afghan President Hamid Karzai agreed to a proposal by elders from the eastern provinces of the country to call the anti-government Taliban militants to talks to put an end to the years of fighting in the country.
The elders met the Afghan leader at his Presidential Palace on Sunday and discussed with him the recent political and security situation in the country and ways and means how to bring peace to the war-battered Afghanistan.
Syria’s political process must be re-energised: UN chief
United Nations: UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has again appealed to the international community to help bring the rival Syrian parties closer on concrete measures...
17 militants killed in Afghanistan
By Xinhua,
Kabul : Afghan security forces and US-led coalition forces have killed 17 Taliban militants in Kabul province, a coalition statement said Sunday.
In joint operations Saturday, the security forces targeted the militants in Zadran district, 135 km south of Kabul, and killed one militant and arrested 10, the statement said.
"Coalition forces conducted a second operation in Surobi district, 50 km east of Kabul, targeting the hideout of one senior commander of Hizb-e-Islami Gulbuddin (HIG) network," it said.
Algerians observe minute of silence in solidarity with Gaza
Algiers : Algerian officials Thursday declared their country's solidarity with the distressed population in the Gaza Strip by observing a minute of silence, a...
US Congressional panel approves tripling of aid to Pakistan; conditions apply
By Arun Kumar, IANS,
Washington : A US Congressional panel has approved a bill to triple US economic assistance to Pakistan to $1.5 billion a year, but with stiff conditions requiring Islamabad to demonstrate a sustained commitment and progress towards combating terrorist groups.
British MPs join campaign against anti-Muslim right-wing extremists
London, March 19, IRNA – MPs, including former ministers, have joined trade unions and numerous organisations in condemning the latest anti-Muslim protest being held by the right-wing English Defence League (EDL) on Saturday.
Stop the War Coalition, Britain’s main peace group network, is also leading a counter-demonstration against the provocative march planned in Bolton, north-west England.
“The EDL is a group of racists and football hooligans with close links to the fascist British National Party,” the MPs said in a joint statement obtained by IRNA.
Iran again rejects deadline on uranium enrichment exchange
By DPA,
Tehran : Iran Tuesday again rejected a deadline for the end of this year set by the world powers on a uranium enrichment deal.
"Actually we have a deadline and our deadline is that if no proper response is received (from the world powers) on the deal, then we will go on with further uranium enrichment for our Tehran medical reactor," Foreign Minister Manouchehr Mottaki told reporters.
Iraq: McCain visits Baghdad to meet Iraq, US military
By SPA
Baghdad : Sen. John McCain arrived in Baghdad on Sunday for an unexpected visit with Iraqi and U.S. diplomatic and military officials, ap quoted a U.S. government official as saying.
The details of McCain's visit were kept secret for security reasons. «Senator McCain is in Iraq and will be meeting with Iraqi and U.S. officials,» said Mirembe Nantongo, spokesperson for the U.S. Embassy in Baghdad.
Pakistan PM reiterates support to Kashmir separatism
By IANS,
Islamabad: Pakistan Prime Minister Yusuf Raza Gilani Thursday reiterated that his government will "continue extending political, moral and diplomatic support" to the separatist campaign in Jammu and Kashmir.
"We will continue extending our political, moral and diplomatic support to the people of Kashmir and our principled stance will not be changed on the issue of Kashmir," Gilani said in his talks with leaders of Pakistan-administered Kashmir.
Dhaka verdict on fatwa hailed with caution
By IANS,
Dhaka : Bangladesh's civil society and Islamic scholars have hailed a court verdict on he fatwa, but asked the government to specify who could issue it so as to prevent misuse.
Pakistan vows to defeat Taliban, army chief visits Swat
By IANS,
Islamabad : The Taliban will be defeated militarily in the security forces' operations in the country's restive northwest, Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani declared here Thursday, on a day when the army chief paid a surprise visit to the battleground.
"Militarily we will win the war, but it will be unfortunate if we loose it publicly," Gilani said while intervening in the National Assembly, the lower house of parliament, during the debate on the military operations that entered their 19th day Thursday.
Arab League Sec-Gen decide to stay in Lebanon, resume talks
By NNN-KUNA
Beirut : Arab League Secretary General Amr Moussa on Friday has decided to stay further in Lebanon and proceed with his mission aiming to narrow the political gap among feuding Lebanese factions.
In an effort to work out a settlement to the ongoing political crisis, Moussa postponed his departure from Beirut, scheduled Friday afternoon, in order to resume talks on that regard, Media Office of Lebanese Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri said in a statement.
Dutch Islamic extremism suspect sentenced to three years in prison
The Hague: A Dutch citizen, who had moved to Syria, was Monday sentenced to three years in prison for participating in Islamic extremist activities...
279 children killed in Yemen conflict
United Nations: At least 279 children have been killed and 402 wounded since the escalation of violence in Yemen, which began on March 26,...
Suicide attack kills two in Pakistan
By Xinhua
Islamabad : At least two people were killed and 10 injured in a suicide attack Friday in northwest Pakistan's tribal area, Dawn News channel reported.
The attack took place near a security check post at Mir Ali tehsil of North Waziristan.
Security forces had launched a major operation against militants in northwest Pakistan's tribal areas after the assassination of former prime minister Benazir Bhutto Dec 27.
More than 200 militants have been killed since early January in the area while attacks targeting security forces are on the rise.
Seven bodies found in Pakistan from airport’s cold storage
Islamabad : At least seven bodies were recovered Tuesday from Karachi-based Jinnah International Airport's cold storage facility in Pakistan, media reported.
A terror attack on...
Dhaka pre-election survey indicates faith in poll
By IANS,
Dhaka : Thirty seven percent of those covered in a pre-poll survey across Bangladesh have indicated a swing in voting pattern, even as an overwhelming 96 percent said they were keen to vote to end the 22-month spell of the current military-backed interim regime.
Eighty-six percent feel that holding the polls Dec 18 is very important for the nation, The Daily Star-Nielsen Election Opinion Poll 2008 revealed.
However, the poll date is likely to shift by ten days, to Dec 28, as per indications from the principal players.
Saudi Arabia rejects Bangladesh’s proposal to increase Haj quota
Dhaka Saudi Arabia has rejected Bangladesh’s proposal to increase the quota of Haj pilgrims, authorities said on Tuesday.
Bangladesh's religious affairs ministry said in a...
Combat climate change, leave better planet for posterity, Bangladesh PM urges global community
By NNN-BSS,
Stockholm : Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Saturday called the global community for tackling challenges of climate change together to make the world a harmonious abode and leave a better planet for the generations to come.
"Let us embrace one anothers responsibility, burden, prosperity, and live in harmony within our planets capacity. . . let us leave a better world for our children and their progeny thereafter," she said.
UAE initiative to buy 20,000 books
By IANS/WAM,
Sharjah : Nearly 20,000 books are to be purchased as part of the Knowledge without Borders (KWB) initiative in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), in an effort to enhance the role of cultural institutions across the Gulf region.
The books will be distributed to various beneficiaries in a bid to strengthen the reputation of the UAE's publishing industry. A variety of books will be distributed to government and private departments and aims to enhance the role of various cultural institutions across the Emirates.
Islamabad shaken, but Marriott firms resolve to reopen
By Muhammad Najeeb, IANS,
Islamabad : With only nine days to go for Eid, the markets are empty and so are the restaurants with dread clamping down on the festive spirit. But in the proverbial Phoenix that will rise from the ashes of Pakistan's worst terror attack, the Marriott Hotel was Tuesday already beginning the process of getting back on its feet.
In a never say die spirit, Sadruddin Hashwani, owner of the hotel that was reduced to a burnt shell after Saturday's suicide bombing that killed 53 people, has promised that the Marriott would be ready in less than four months.
Sadrist politicians anger over Iraq law setback
By IRNA
Baghdad : The Sadr bloc, which has the backing of 32 members in a 275-seat parliament expressed concern about Iraqi presidential council decision to object to a national
reconciliation law.
The faction loyal to Shia cleric Moqtada Sadr has reacted angrily to the rejection by Iraq's presidency council of a draft law on regional powers.
A spokesman for Sadrist bloc, Nassar Rubaie, denounced the council's decision as a form of dictatorship.
He said his group was considering calling for sit-ins and a general strike in protest.
Army worm attacks cotton crop in Pakistan district
By IANS,
Islamabad : The 'army worm' pest is rapidly spreading through the cotton crop in a Pakistan district hitting cotton production, a media report said.
US, Iran resume bilateral n-talks
Geneva : The US and Iranian officials held another round of bilateral talks Thursday over Tehran's disputed nuclear programme.
The meeting between the two sides...