No talks with Pakistan; welcome a proactive PM: Sushma Swaraj
New Delhi : External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj on Sunday denied any "flip-flop" in India's policy towards Pakistan and said no talks can be...
Textracts: rumor-mongering
By Muhammad Tariq Ghazi,
Whoever intentionally attributes to me something that I did not say or do has made his abode in the Hellfire.
The Rasool-Allah
Over 1,300 militants killed in Pakistan operation, says official
By IANS,
Islamabad : Pakistani security forces have killed 1,305 militants, including 40 suicide bombers, since the operation began against the Taliban in the country's northwest, the Online news agency said Sunday.
In addition, 120 militants have been captured since the Operation Rahe-e-Rast was launched in April, Athar Abbas, director general Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), said.
He added that 40 suicide bombers have been killed, and 306 army officials have been wounded in the fighting.
Obama calls leaders of Russia, France, Germany
By DPA,
Washington : US President Barack Obama Monday telephoned French President Nicolas Sarkozy, German Chancellor Angela Merkel and Russian President Dmitry Medvedev to discuss the global economic crisis, the Middle East and improving bilateral relations.
These were the latest in a long list of telephone calls to foreign leaders that Obama has made since his inauguration Jan 20.
Palestinians move for Gaza war-crimes probe
By IINA,
The Hague, Netherlands : The Palestinian Authority has recognized the jurisdiction of the International Criminal Court in a move aimed at allowing an investigation of possible war crimes during the recent Gaza conflict, the court said.
The court can only investigate if asked by the UN Security Council or an involved state that has recognized the court. Israel has never recognized its jurisdiction. Only states can recognize the court and it is unclear if the Palestinians can do so.
Pakistan: flood-affected Peshawar area receiving UN food aid
By NNN-APP,
United Nations : The World Food Programme (WFP) has started distributing food aid to villagers around Peshawar who are coping with the impact of last week’s deadly floods, The U.N. agency announced.
A UN assessment has found that nearly 100 villages, with about 500,000 people, were affected after torrential rains flooded the local Thara Khur stream which flows from Landi Kotal to Charsada in Peshawar district.
Taliban kills 3, kidnaps 7 others in S Afghanistan
By Xinhua,
Kabul : Taliban rebels fighting the Afghan government Wednesday night attacked several tribal elders' houses in the Arghandab district of southern Afghanistan's Kandahar province, an official said on Thursday.
Marai Khan, the district police chief told Xinhua that several groups of Taliban militants attacked the houses belonging to district tribal elders at the same time late Wednesday evenging, killing elder Haji Bacha and two sons of his.
Five injured in Pakistan blast
By Xinhua,
Islamabad : Five people were injured Thursday in a blast in Pakistan's North West Frontier Province, a media report said.
The blast occurred on Hangu road in Kohat town, Geo TV reported.
Imam Hussain sets shining example of human sacrifice: Pakistani President Zardari
By NNN-APP,
Islamabad : President Asif Ali Zardari said the martyrdom of Hazrat Imam Hussain was a shining example of human sacrifice in the path of righteousness.
In a message here on Sunday on the eve of 30th annual Imam Hussain Conference, the President said it is a matter of great pleasure that Markazi Imam Hussain Council is holding the annual conference in which prominent religious scholars from all schools of thought will participate.
The President said it is appreciable that Markazi Imam Hussain Council has been working for years to bring the Muslim Ummah together.
Iran launches nuclear fusion research
By IANS,
Tehran: Iran Saturday launched a fusion research programme that will help build its first homemade nuclear reactor to generate electricity, the state-run Press TV reported.
Head of the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran (AEOI), Ali-Akbar Salehi said some 50 scientists will work on the project at the AEOI headquarters in Tehran.
Nuclear fusion is a process by which light atomic particles like hydrogen isotopes merge to form a heavier atom with the release of energy.
Iran hopes by harnessing this energy it will be able to ease the energy problems in the country.
Judge shot dead in Pakistan
By IANS,
Islamabad : A sessions judge was gunned down Thursday along with his guard and driver in Pakistan's Quetta city, a media report said.
Pakistan advances clock to conserve energy
By IANS,
Islamabad : Facing a huge energy deficit, Pakistan has drawn up a comprehensive plan for conserving power by advancing clocks by an hour and ordering markets to close by 9 p.m. from June 1.
The adjustment in the Pakistan Standard Time (PST) would take it six hours ahead of GMT. Henceforth, sunrise in Islamabad will be at 6 a.m. instead of 5 a.m. and sunset at 8 p.m.
Pakistan, which faces an energy shortfall of 4,000 MW, has twice before attempted to introduce daylight saving time but has failed on both occasions, Dawn reported Thursday.
Pakistan examining cleric’s comments on Sharia courts
By IANS,
Islamabad : The Pakistani government is examining the remarks of a Taliban-linked radical cleric on the supremacy of Sharia courts over the existing judiciary, a senior minister said Monday.
A recording of Sufi Muhammad's public address Sunday, during the course of which he said Pakistan's judicial system was un-Islamic and vowed to impose Sharia across the country, is being viewed to evaluate the intent behind his remarks, Interior Minister Rehman Malik told Geo TV.
Pakistani Gilani, Boucher discuss cooperation between South Asia and other regions
By NNN-APP,
Colombo : Prime Minister Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani and US Assistant Secretary for South and Central Asian Affairs Richard Boucher had a meeting here on the sidelines of the 15th SAARC Summit.
During the meeting on Saturday the views were exchanged on the cooperation between South Asia and other regions.
Owing to the importance of South Asia the representatives of United States, China, Japan and EU are participating in the 15th summit meeting of South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation as observers.
Israeli strike kills Palestinian in Gaza
By SPA,
Gaza : An Israeli air strike killed a Palestinian civilian in the Hamas-controlled Gaza Strip on Tuesday, medical workers said.
An Israeli army spokeswoman said a rocket launching crew that had just fired at the southern Israeli town of Sderot was hit by an air strike, according to a report of Reuters.
Palestinian medical workers said gunmen fled the area just before the air attack and that a youth was killed. The workers initially identified the dead Palestinian as a gunman.
Abu Dhabi court to give verdict on pirates
By IANS/WAM,
Abu Dhabi : A court in Abu Dhabi will deliver its verdict March 6 on 10 pirates charged with hijacking MV Arrilah-I ship last April.
US troops kill several Taliban in Afghanistan
By KUNA,
Kabul : US-led coalition troops have killed several militants during an operation in Farah province in western Afghanistan.
A statement from the coalition forces' Bagram base on Sunday said the militants' location was pinpointed through intelligence reports to a remote area known to be a safe haven for Taliban and foreign fighters.
After the militants were positively identified and US forces determined that there were no non-combatants in the area, coalition aircraft carried out an air strike.
Pakistan signs peace accord with Swat Valley militants
By DPA,
Peshawar (Pakistan) : The Pakistani government Wednesday signed a peace accord with militants seeking to impose Taliban-style Islamic rule in the country's restive valley of Swat.
"Peace talks with Swat militants have been successful and we hope that the agreement will bring peace in the region," said Bashir Bilour, a senior minister in North-West Frontier Province (NWFP), after signing the 15-point pact.
Tense Calm in Mauritania after Coup
By Prensa Latina,
Nouakchott : Tension prevailed in Mauritania Friday but without significant violece after President Sidi Ould Cheikh Abdallahi was defeated by a coup d'etat and a military regime was established.
Although some business reopened and other activities continue, the environment in Nouakchott, the capital, and other regions of the country is basically divided between reactions in favor and against the leaders of the coup.
UAE charity to fund humanitarian efforts in Afghanistan
By IANS,
Abu Dhabi : The United Arab Emirates (UAE) based charity Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan Charity Foundation would fund various humanitarian projects to help children in Afghanistan, WAM news agency reported Tuesday.
The charity signed an agreement with the International Save the Children Alliance to fund projects in areas such as education, public health, nutrition etc.
Lahore dengue toll rises to 36
By IANS,
Islamabad : One more person has died of dengue in Lahore, taking the toll to 36. The Pakistani city has been severely hit by the mosquito-borne disease over the past few weeks.
Fatima Bhutto’s book still on top
By IANS,
New Delhi : "Songs of Blood and Sword" by Fatima Bhutto, niece of late Pakistani prime minister Benazir Bhutto, is the top non-fiction bestseller for the third consecutive week while Amish Tripathi's "The Immortals of Meluha" dominates the fiction list.
Non-fiction
1. "Songs of Blood and Sword"
Author: Fatima Bhutto
Publisher: Penguin Viking
Price: Rs.699.00
2. "The Big Short"
Author: Michael Lewis
Publisher: Allen Lane
Price: Rs.599.00
3. "Becoming Indian"
Author: Pavan K. Varma
Publisher: Penguin/Allen Lane
Price: Rs.499.00
Deputy FM meets with Spanish senior diplomat
By IRNA,
Tehran : Deputy Foreign Minister in Asia and Pacific Affairs Mohammad Mehdi Akhoundzadeh met with Director General for Mediterranean, North Africa and Middle East Affairs of Spain's Foreign Ministry here Wednesday.
Iranian FM urges patience, restraint on Tehran’s nuclear issue
By Xinhua
Davos, Switzerland : Iranian Foreign Minister Manouchehr Mottaki here Saturday urged the U.N. Security Council to be patient and show self-restraint on the Gulf state's nuclear issue until receiving the next report by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) around Feb. 20.
"We advise the U.N. Security Council to exercise restraint. There is not much time left until the final report of the IAEA comes out," Mottaki told a panel concentrating on Iran's foreign policy during the World Economic Forum (WEF) Annual Meeting.
18 die in Afghanistan blast
By IANS,
Kabul : Eighteen civilians were killed in a massive explosion when their mini-bus ran over a roadside bomb Friday morning in Afghanistan's Helmand province, police said.
Pakistan confirms arrest of Afghan Taliban military chief
By DPA,
Islamabad : The top military commander of the Afghan Taliban was captured in Pakistan's southern port city of Karachi in a raid by US and Pakistani intelligence agents, officials confirmed Tuesday.
Mullah Abdul Ghani Brader, chief of the Taliban military wing and second only to the movement's founder Mullah Muhammad Omar, was arrested several days ago, officials said.
"Yes, Mullah Brader was arrested in Karachi, we confirm that. At this moment he is in our custody and we are interrogating him," a senior Pakistani military official told DPA.
Iran begins installing 6,000 new centrifuges
By SPA
Tehran, Iran : State television is quoting Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad saying that Iran has begun installing 6,000 centrifuges at its uranium enrichment plant in Natanz.
Iran already has about 3,000 centrifuges operating in Natanz, according to a report of the Associated Press.
Iran, Pakistan to finalise pipeline deal next week
By IANS,
Tehran : Iran and Pakistan will hold the last round of the Iran-Pakistan-India gas pipeline talks in Tehran next week, the special representative of Iran's oil minister to the talks has said.
"A Pakistani delegation headed by Minister of Petroleum and Natural Resources Asim Hussain is to arrive in Tehran May 23 to finalise the Peace Pipeline deal based on the new price formula," Hojjatollah Ghanimifard was quoted as saying by Mehr news agency.
Iran has suggested a new price formula which was approved by Pakistan's cabinet April 10.
Pakistani Foreign Minister Qureshi to hold wide-ranging talks with his Indian counterpart on Nov....
By NNN-APP,
New Delhi : Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi will hold wide-ranging talks with his Indian counter-part Pranab Mukherjee here on Nov 26.
The issues relating to Kashmir, Chenab Water flow, Siachen, Sri Creek, prisoners languishing in each others jails, visa regime, trade, security, terrorism and Confidence Building Measures are expected to come under discussion which will be held in Hyderabad House on the evening of Wednesday.
Qureshi’s present 4-day visit is in continuation of his last visit which was cut short due to death of his mother-in-law on June 27 last.
‘Pre-poll manipulation’ in Pakistan worries European observers
By Dipankar De Sarkar, IANS
London : The head of the European Union observer mission to the Pakistani elections says evidence of pre-poll manipulation is already causing "concerns at the moment" to the international community.
Robert Evans, a member of the European Parliament, said his "long-term observers" for the Feb 18 elections, who have been in Pakistan since December, have told him of several malpractices.
Two girls’ schools burnt down in Pakistan
By IANS,
Islamabad : Two girls' schools were burnt down Saturday by Taliban militants in Pakistan's northwestern Swat valley, IRNA news agency reported.
The schools were located in the Mingora area of the province.
The militants also blew up two bridges in the Khwazakhela area of the valley.
Muslim Khan, a Taliban spokesman, has claimed responsibility for the attacks.
In the last two months, Taliban militants have burnt down around 61 girls' schools in the Swat valley, due to which some 17,000 girls are deprived of education, a police official said on condition of anonymity.
Bin Laden’s son applies to move to U.K. with wife – Daily Mail
By RIA Novosti
London : Al Qaeda leader Osama Bin Laden's son has applied for a visa to the United Kingdom where he intends to live with his British wife, the Daily Mail reported.
Omar Bin Laden, 26, and his wife Jane Felix-Browne, 52, say they have been interviewed at the British Embassy in Cairo. The embassy has declined to comment on the issue.
Omar Bin Laden, 26, and his wife Jane Felix-Browne, 52, say they have been interviewed at the British Embassy in Cairo. The embassy has declined to comment on the issue.
Afghan, Saudi leaders vow to cement bilateral ties
By Xinhua
Kabul : Afghan President Hamid Karzai and King Abdullah of Saudi Arabia have stressed for strengthening bilateral relations between the two Islamic states during a recent telephone conversation, a statement released by the Afghan presidential office said on Wednesday.
Belgium to monitor Lebanese coasts under UNIFIL March 1
By KUNA,
Brussels : Belgium announced Wednesday its participation in the observation mission off the Lebanese coasts as part of the UN International Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL).
A Defense Ministry states said Belgium would be monitoring the Lebanese coasts aboard frigate "Leopold 1" as part of the UNIFIL for three months.
It added that the UN had agreed to the Belgian proposal, effective as of March 1.
Jordan opens camp for 130,000 Syrian refugees
Amman : A UN official said Jordan is opening a new, sprawling tent city to accommodate tens of thousands more Syrian refugees who are...
UN official calls on Israel to stop economic strangulation on Gaza
By KUNA
Brussels : John Holmes, the U.N. Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator, said Tuesday that the opening of the Rafah border by Gazans "was a reflection of the despair that people have felt there." Speaking to reporters here, he noted that the situation in Gaza "is very bad." It has been bad for a long time but made worse by the recent cut in fuel supply and the closure of the crossing to Egypt, said Holmes pointing that 80 percent of the 1.5 million population of Gaza depends on outside humanitarian aid.
‘West pressurising Zardari, Nawaz to work with Musharraf’
By IANS
Islamabad : Western envoys in the Pakistani capital are persuading the leaders of parties that won last Monday's elections to work with President Pervez Musharraf amid mounting worries about his political future, news reports said Saturday.
Musharraf has come under renewed pressure after the elections threw up all opponents of his iron-fisted rule for more than eight years and crushed the main party of his loyalists, the Dawn newspaper said.
Rafsanjani to discuss Iran crisis with clerics
By DPA,
Tehran: Former Iranian president Akbar Hashemi-Rafsanjani will discuss the current political crisis with senior clerics in the religious city of Mashad in northeastern Iran, state media reported Sunday.
"I will hold talks with the high-ranking clerics over the current developments," Rafsanjani told Mehr news agency upon arrival in the Mashad airport.
Rafsanjani's speech at the Friday prayer ceremony in the Tehran University provoked controversy within Iran's political circles.
28 killed, 40 injured in Baghdad mosque blast
By IANS,
Baghdad : Twenty-eight people were killed and 40 others were injured when a suicide blast tore through a mosque in western Baghdad Sunday, Xinhua reported.
Indian foreign policy on Israel-Palestine conflict has changed: Mani Shankar Aiyer
By TwoCircles.net staff reporter,
New Delhi: India’s foreign policy on Israel-Palestine conflict has changed in the last ten years, admitted Union Minister Mani Shankar Aiyer speaking in a conference on Israeli aggression and independence of Palestine on 14th May.
The national conference was jointly held on the completion of 60 years of Israeli occupation of Palestine under the auspices of the Joint Committee of Muslim Organizations and Sadbhawna Mission at New Delhi’s Constitution Club.
Iraq wants goods ties with neighbours – Iraqi PM
By NNN-KUNA,
Brussels : Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri Al-Maliki has told the European Parliament (EP) that the security situation in Iraq has improved and gave an assurance that "free and fair" provincial elections will be held in October.
Speaking at a joint meeting of the EP's Foreign Affairs Committee and its Delegation for Relations with Iraq Wednesday, Al-Maliki said Bqghdad wants good ties with its neighbouring countries. "We want good relations with Turkey, Iran, Kuwait and Saudi Arabia on the basis of mutual respect and non-interference in our internal affairs."
Bios of winners of 2nd constituency of Kuwait parliament elections
By KUNA,
Kuwait : The 10 winners of the 2nd constituency of parliamentary elections were officially announced on Sunday following a delay that forced the top judge to revise tally of ballots of a committee.
The winners were Marzouq Al-Ghanim with 10,878 votes. Born in 1968, Al-Ghanim holds a bachelors degree in mechanical engineering. He held a number of positions, including Chairman of Boubyan Petrochemicals. He was elected MP in 2006.
Iran’s Ahmadinejad nominates another woman for education ministry
By DPA,
Tehran : Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad has nominated another woman for the education ministry after his first female nominee was rejected by the parliament, a media report said Sunday.
Ahmadinejad has introduced parliament deputy Fatemeh Alia as replacement for the rejected Susan Keshavarz, the official news agency IRNA reported.
The parliament Thursday rejected both Keshavarz for the education and Fatemeh Ajoulou for the social welfare ministry.
Trade with India can go up to $10 bn: Pakistani official
By IANS,
New Delhi : Trade between India and Pakistan can go up to $10 billion a year in 5-6 years if the countries resume their dialogue and the overall political environment improves, Pakistan's Commerce Secretary Suleman Ghani said here Saturday.
"If everything goes right then once we resume dialogue, it should not take more than 5-6 years for the trade between two countries to reach $10 billion from the current $2 billion," Ghani told reporters on the sidelines of PHD Chamber conference.
"It is about time we set up strong targets for trade between India and Pakistan," he said.
UN official visits Gaza to assess humanitarian situation
By KUNA,
Gaza : United Nations Humanitarian Coordinator in the Occupied Palestinian Territory Max Gaylard witnessed first-hand Tuesday the worsening economic and humanitarian situation in Gaza Strip under Israeli siege.
Gaylard met Tuesday with Gaza Governor Mohammad Al-Qudwa, Khan Younis Governor Osama Al-Farra, and Governor of the strip's central area Ismael Abu Shamala.
The governors stressed, according to a press release distributed here, on the importance of the United Nations' role in supporting the Palestinian cause from the humanitarian aspects.
‘Talaq’ pronounced in anger haunt rural women in Bangladesh
By IANS,
Dhaka : Misinterpretation of Islamic laws is creating endless problems in rural Bangladesh, especially for women who have become victims of 'talaq' pronounced by husbands in a fit of anger and who later repent and want to be reunited with their wives, say NGOs working in the field.
Motahar Akand, senior deputy director of NGO Ain O Salish Kendra (ASK), says the practice can be beaten by creating awareness among the people. Akand has worked with ASK in different places across the country to prevent misuse of Islamic laws.
UAE president pardons 700 prisoners ahead of Ramadan
By IANS,
Abu Dhabi : President of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan Wednesday granted an executive pardon to 700 prisoners, both UAE nationals and expatriates, lodged in various jails across the country ahead of the Islamic holy month of Ramadan.
He also instructed the authorities concerned to ensure that the pardoned prisoners' debts were settled, the state-run Emirates News Agency (WAM) reported.
Pakistani FM leaves for New York over Bhutto’s assassination inquiry
By Xinhua,
Islamabad : Pakistani Foreign Minister Makhdoom Shah Mahmood Qureshi Tuesday left here for New York to discuss Pakistan's request for United Nations inquiry into former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto's assassination.
Qureshi will have consultations with UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon on Pakistan's request for international inquiry under the UN into the tragic assassination of Bhutto, official Associated Press of Pakistan reported.
He will also hold talks with Permanent Representatives of the UN Security Council member countries on this issue.
Kuwait urges US to free its Guantanamo prisoners
By KUNA
Kuwait : A committee of families of Kuwaiti prisoners held at Guantanamo Bay on Friday called on the US to release remaining four Kuwaiti detainees at the detention facility in Cuba.
The Kuwaiti call came shortly after US President George W. Bush arrived here earlier in the day for a two-day state visit to Kuwait.
" ... We have remained faithful as an ally to the US and as a friend to the American people," said Khalid Al Oda, head of the Kuwaiti Family Committee and father of detainee Fawzi Al-Oda.
Nine killed in Afghanistan attacks
Kabul : At least nine people were killed and three injured in separate attacks in Afghanistan, an official said Monday.
"Local leader Mohammad Habbas and...
Blast in Pakistan, several injured
By Xinhua,
Islamabad : Several people were injured in a blast in northwestern Pakistan Saturday, a TV channel reported. The blast occurred in a house in Hangu district of North West Frontier Province.
Report: White House criticizes envoy over Iran
By Xinhua
Washington : The White House has expressed anger about an appearance in which U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Zalmay Khalilzad sat beside the Iranian foreign minister at a panel of the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, on Saturday, the New York Times reported Wednesday.
Khalilzad was still in Europe and could not be reached for comment. His spokesman, Richard A. Grenell, characterized Khalilzad's appearance beside Iranian Foreign Minister Manouchehr Mottaki as "just a multilateral conversation with the moderator."
Four killed as worker-police clash in Bangladesh
By IANS,
Dhaka : In another round of recurring industrial violence in Bangladesh, at least four people were killed Saturday as garment factory workers clashed with police at Tongi on the outskirts of Dhaka.
Two workers and two policemen were killed and over 200 injured at the industrial township called Ershadnagar, Star Online, the website of The Daily Star said.
As reports of violence poured in, unnamed sources said the death toll might rise.
The clashes erupted at 8 a.m. when around 3,000 workers of Nippon Garment launched agitation demanding due salaries.
Israeli attacks on schools ‘unacceptable’: UN chief
By DPA,
New York : Israeli attacks on three schools run by the United Nations in the Gaza Strip in the last 24 hours, including one that killed more than 46 civilians Tuesday, were "totally unacceptable and must not be repeated," UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon said.
The three schools were operated by the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestinian Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) in Gaza. The UN said about 15,000 Palestinians, who fled the fighting between Israel and Hamas, had found refuge in these schools as well as in more than 20 other schools in the territory.
Toxic liquor kills 12 in Pakistan
By DPA,
Islamabad : At least 12 people died after drinking locally brewed liquor apparently tainted with lethal chemicals in Pakistan's eastern province of Punjab, a news report said Monday.
The deaths occurred overnight in two neighbourhoods of Multan town, located 340 km south-west of the provincial capital, Lahore.
Three more people were admitted to a local state-run hospital, where doctors described their condition as critical, the Geo News television channel said.
Police arrested one suspected bootlegger and seized eight drums of alcohol, Geo said.
Sudan Shuns Genocide Charge VS President
By Prensa Latina,
Khartoum : The government of Sudan rejected charges filed by the International Penal Court Prosecutor against President Omar Hassan Al-Bashir for alleged genocide in Darfur.
Information and Communication Minister Al-Zahawi Ibrahim Malik said his country will no hesitate to defend its sovereignty, unity, security and territorial integrity, adding that Khartoum does not recognize that court.
Pakistani schools to be named after Dec 16 victims
Islamabad : Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa province Chief Minister Pervez Khattak has announced that government educational institutions in the province would be named after the children killed...
Pakistan parties file nomination papers for presidency
By Xinhua,
Islamabad : Pakistani parties on Tuesday submitted their nomination papers to the election commission for the upcoming presidential election scheduled on Sept. 6.
The Pakistan People's Party (PPP) submitted the nomination paper of its Co-chairman Asif Ali Zardari, widower of assassinated former prime minister Benazir Bhutto.
The Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) nominated former Supreme Court chief justice Saeed-uz-zaman Siddiqui as candidate after PML-N chief Nawaz Sharif quit the coalition and sat on the opposition bench on Monday.
EU starts implementing Iran nuclear agreement
Brussels : The European Council said here on Friday that it has adopted the first legal acts implementing the latest Iran nuclear deal, which...
Five killed in Afghanistan twin blasts
Kabul: At least five people were killed and three injured as two roadside bombs went off in Afghanistan's Kandahar province, an official said Sunday.
The...
13,500 bullets, explosives found in Bangladesh forest
By IANS,
Dhaka : As many as 13,500 bullets and 13 kg of explosives were found buried in a forest in Bangladesh, an official said.
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.
Iraq’s PM vows to stay course as clashes remain unabated
By Xinhua
Baghdad : Iraqi Prime Minister Nuri al-Maliki vowed Thursday to stamp out "criminals" while clashes between security troops and Shiite militiamen showed few signs to wind down.
In Basra, the epicenter of the ongoing turmoil, fierce clashes kept the streets empty.
Militants of the Mahdi Army, led by Shiite cleric Muqtada al-Sadr, traded fire with security forces in the Ma'qal area, witnesses said.
They once seized a base of Iraq's security troops but withdrew about one hour later.
Pakistan has been double-dealing US for years: Former CIA analyst
By IANS,
Washington : For years Pakistan was "double dealing" the US on the war on terror , says a former CIA analyst, adding it will not be easy to break the Pakistani intelligence agencies' deep ties with Islamist groups.
Retired from the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) in 2006 after 29 years, Bruce Riedel speaks angrily about Pakistan under President Pervez Musharraf for extracting billions of dollars from Washington even while it allowed Al Qaeda to regroup in its tribal lands.
Saudi Arabia adds two Hezbollah leaders on terrorist list
Riyadh : Saudi Arabia has added two Hezbollah leaders, Khalil Harb and Muhammad Qabalan, in its terrorist list, Saudi Press Agency reported on Thursday.
They...
Iran Willing to Talk with Any Country
By Prensa Latina,
Tehran : The Iranian Government expressed its willingness to talk with every nation around the world, while other official sources pleaded for promoting cooperation to maintain peace and stability in the region.
Spokesman for the Executive Gholam-Hossein Elham said that "the time to use an egoistic, domineering discourse is over. Such a discourse cannot be applied to a great power like Iran."
Several Indo-Pak meetings on hold following Mumbai attacks
By NNN-PTI,
Islamabad : The Composite Dialogue has become an early casualty of tension between India and Pakistan in the wake of attacks in Mumbai, with several key meetings under it being put on hold as New Delhi awaits "strong action" from Islamabad against terrorists responsible for the carnage.
Several key meetings scheduled to be held this month and in January as part of the fifth round of the Composite Dialogue are now unlikely to take place till Pakistan acts on India's concerns, diplomatic sources said.
Pakistan strife raises US doubts on nuclear arms: NYT
By IANS,
New York : As the insurgency of the Taliban and Al Qaeda spreads in Pakistan, senior American officials are increasingly concerned about new vulnerabilities for Pakistan's nuclear arsenal, the New York Times reported Monday.
Their concerns include the potential for militants to snatch a weapon in transport or to insert sympathisers into laboratories or fuel-production facilities, the influential US daily said citing unnamed officials.
NAM Calls to Safeguard Palestine Culture
By Prensa Latina,
Paris : The Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) called on Thursday to safeguard the Palestinian heritage and that of other Arab occupied territories, before the UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).
The NAM presentation to the UNESCO highlighted the importance of preserving the cultural and natural heritage and protecting educational institutions in Palestine and other Arab occupied territories, including the Syrian Golan.
Pakistani President Zardari claims Osama is dead; seeks INTL Aid
By NNN-PTI,
Islamabad : Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari has said that al-Qaeda chief Osama bin Laden is dead, but has sought more international aid to expand military operations against Taliban, in areas where Americans believe he may be hiding.
Asserting that his government was fighting the militants with determination, Zardari said these efforts were hampered by what he called lack of resources.
24 killed in Turkey bus-truck collision
By IANS,
Ankara : Twenty-four people were killed when a minibus and a truck collided in southeast Turkey Wednesday, Xinhua reported.
Major terror bid foiled in Pakistani city
Islamabad : Pakistani security forces foiled a major terror bid in Balochistan's Sibi city by defusing a roadside bomb Sunday, the day Eid Milad-un-Nabi...
Dubai among venues for US Democrats’ global videoconference
By IANS,
Dubai : This west Asian metropolis is one of the five cities chosen by the US Democratic Party to discuss American foreign policy positions over videoconference this month ahead of the presidential elections later this year.
Jerry Hagstrom, a political analyst and a senior leader of the Democratic Party, will engage journalists and policy specialists from the floor of the Democratic National Convention in Denver between 4 p.m. and 6.30 p.m. Aug 25 at the Dubai School of Government (DSG), the official Emirates News Agency (WAM) reported.
Pak govt not to claim Jinnah House in Mumbai
By NNN-PTI
Islamabad : Pakistan government has "abandoned" the idea of claiming the Jinnah House in Mumbai to open a consulate in India's financial hub as it feels the building is a "personal" property.
Though Pakistan had previously expressed an interest in claiming the Jinnah House, Foreign Office spokesman Mohammad Sadiq told 'The News' daily that the "government has abandoned the idea".
He avoided further comment on the issue as it is a matter of "emotional attachment for Pakistanis and Indian Muslims".
39 Indians abducted in Iraq still in captivity
New Delhi : The 39 Indian workers held hostage by Islamic State jihadists in Mosul in Iraq since the past two months "remain in...
Prince Harry returns to Britain
By DPA
London : A British Royal Air Force plane touched down Saturday bringing Prince Harry home from Afghanistan.
The Tristar troop transport plane landed at 11:29 a.m. at the Brize Norton air base west of London after the 23-year-old prince was flown out of Afghanistan in what military officials said was for his own safety and that of other soldiers serving with him.
His return came only two days after a media blackout on his deployment in the Helmand province was broken, creating a major controversy.
US Congress notifies dilivery of refurbished F-16s to Pakistan
By NNN-APP,
Washington : The US Congress Tuesday notified delivery of 10 refurbished F-16 fighter aircraft to Pakistan.
Of the 12 refurbished planes, Pakistan is getting from the United States, two have already been delivered to it.
The country will receive eight jets over two months, four each in June and July this year, while the remaining two F-16s will be delivered subsequently.
Pakistan is receiving the planes as a major non-NATO ally of the United States and their provision signifies close defence relations between the two countries.
15 militants killed in Pakistan
By IANS,
Islamabad : At least 15 militants have been killed in northwestern Pakistan's Dir and Orakzai areas, a media report said.
UAE greets Spain on national day
By IANS/WAM,
Abu Dhabi : UAE President Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan has greeted Spanish King Juan Carlos I on the occasion of his country's national day.
Two NATO troops killed in Afghanistan
By IANS,
Kabul : A man wearing an Afghan army uniform killed two NATO-led International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) soldiers in Afghanistan Monday.
Shun yellow journalism, Pakistani media told
By IANS,
Islamabad : Pakistan's Urdu press and electronic media need more editorial control unless they want to meet the fate of the News of the World, a daily said Sunday.
We are fighting for our lives: Pakistani President Zardari
By NNN-APP,
London : In his article published Monday in a respected British daily “The Guardian”, President Asif Ali Zardari has pledged to defeat the terrorists and said Pakistan’s security is backed up by democracy and a strong economy.
Thed President wrote that the war against terrorism has cost Pakistan not just in lives but also in economic terms, freezing international investment and diverting priorities from social and other sectors.
Two Polish soldiers killed in Afghanistan
By DPA,
Warsaw : Two Polish soldiers were killed and four injured Friday in an attack in Afghanistan.
A bomb exploded under their vehicle in Wardak Province, in the country's central-east region, according to the Polish news agency PAP, which quoted a military spokesman in Warsaw.
The soldiers were on Highway 1 from Ghasni to Bagram when the attack occurred. To date, 15 Polish soldiers have been killed in Iraq in attacks or accidents. About 2,000 Polish soldiers are part of NATO's international force in Afghanistan.
Pakistani terrorist retracts confession, alleges police pressure
By IANS,
Mumbai : In a sudden turn of events, arrested Pakistani terrorist Mohammed Ajmal Amir alias Kasab Friday retracted his confessional statement on his involvement in the Nov 26 Mumbai terrorist attacks.
The court-appointed government lawyer representing Kasab S.G. Abbas Kazmi told reporters after the first day's hearing that this morning after the sealed envelope containing the 40-page confession was opened, he showed it to his client.
"I asked him whether this is your statement and it is your signature," Kazmi said.
Swat Taliban stronghold captured, militant casualties rise to 762
By IANS,
Islamabad : Pakistani security forces achieved a major breakthrough Wednesday by capturing the stronghold of the Swat Taliban as militant casualties on the 18th day of a military operation in the country's restive northwest rose to 762 and the army chief asked his troops to minimise collateral damage during their advance.
The security forces had established a firm foothold in Peochar, the headquarters of Swat Taliban commander Maulana Fazlullah, and other areas of the district, the military said.
Italy to send ships, planes to ease refugee crisis in Libya
By IANS/AKI,
Rome : Italy will send ships and planes to help rescue thousands of people caught between the borders of Tunisia and Libya, Foreign Minister Franco Frattini has said in Rome.
Roadside bomb attack kills US soldier in Baghdad
By SPA,
Baghdad : The U.S. military says an American soldier has died of wounds sustained in a roadside bombing in Eastern Baghdad.
The military says the bomb struck the soldier's vehicle during a combat patrol in eastern Baghdad at approximately 6:15 p.m. Friday.
Saturday's announcement raises to two the number of U.S. troops killed in Iraq in May, the Associated Press reported.
At least 50 U.S. troops were killed in April _ the deadliest month since September when 65 U.S. troops died.
Israeli strike kills three Palestinians in Gaza
By DPA
Gaza : Three Palestinians were killed Saturday in an Israeli strike on northern Gaza Strip soon after militants launched makeshift rockets at Israel, medics and witnesses said.
Witnesses in Beit Hanoun in northern Gaza said an Israeli surface-to-surface missile hit the area killing three civilian bystanders.
Mo'aweya Hassanein, chief of emergency and ambulance services, said the bodies were taken to a hospital there.
The Israeli strike came shortly after two homemade rockets were fired from the area at southern Israel, witnesses said.
Some 50,000 Muslims to leave for Haj pilgrimage from France
By NNN-KUNA,
Paris : French authorities have said that they expect around 50,000 Muslims to leave from France or transit through here from third countries heading to the haj pilgrimage next month.
Foreign Ministry deputy spokesman Frederic Desagneaux said Tuesday that the French government had printed up 50,000 "guide booklets" for the pilgrims.
Pakistan keen to have civilian nuclear deal: Gilani
Islamabad, Oct 2 (Xinhua) Pakistani Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gilani said Thursday his country is keen to have a deal similar to the India-US nuclear accord.
Pakistan has right to civilian use of nuclear power, Dawn News channel quoted Gilani as saying at a press conference in the central city of Multan.
Gilani's remarks came a day after the US senate approved a deal to end the three-decade ban on nuclear trade with India.
The legislation, which was approved by 86-13 votes, is now sent to President George W. Bush for signing into a law.
Malaysia`s Anwar to be investigated on sex charges – police
By ANTARA News,
Kuala Lumpur : Malaysia's opposition leader Anwar Ibrahim will be investigated over new allegations of sodomy, police said on Saturday, the same charge that saw him jailed a decade ago.
Anwar's Keadilan party said that one of his aides, Saiful Bahari, had been arrested and "forced" to make a statement saying he was sodomised by the opposition leader.
"Yes, we have received a police report from an aide of Anwar Ibrahim that he was sodomised. But no, we will not arrest Anwar at the moment," said deputy police chief Ismail Omar.
Up to 11 killed, 22 wounded in Baghdad suicide-car bombing
By Xinhua,
Baghdad : The death toll from a suicide car bombing which targeted the convoy of Iraq's labor minister on Thursday morning, rose to 11 with 22 others injured, an Interior Ministry source said.
"Our latest reports said that 11 people were killed and 22 others wounded by the suicide car bombing that struck the convoy of Mahmoud Jawad al-Radhi, the minister of labor, in the Bab al-Sharji area in central Baghdad, " the source told Xinhua on condition of anonymity.
Suicide bomber kills 8, wounds at least 35 in downtown Kabul
By RIA Novosti
Kabul : Eight civilians were killed and at least 35 wounded as a suicide bomber blew up a car rigged with explosives in the Afghan capital, Kabul, a military official said on Friday.
General Carlos Martins Branco, a spokesman for the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF), said the car exploded on a road in downtown Kabul leading to the Kabul International Airport.
The ISAF is a NATO-led security and development mission involving more than forty nations.
Islamabad fortified as lawyers march into Punjab province
By Muhammad Najeeb, IANS,
Islamabad : All points of entry into Islamabad and Rawalpindi cities in Pakistan's Punjab province were being tightly guarded Tuesday as hundreds of lawyers, political activists and lay people launched a march to demand reinstatement of the judges President Pervez Musharraf sacked last year.
Musharraf had Nov 3, 2007, sacked more than 60 judges of the superior courts, including Supreme Court Chief Justice Iftikhar Chaudhry.
Pakistan sends more aid to quake-hit Nepal
Islamabad : Pakistan sent more relief assistance to the earthquake-hit people in Nepal on Saturday, officials said.
"At the instructions of the prime minister, two...
PNA vows to suspend negotiations until Israel withdraws decision on new settlement
By Xinhua
Ramallah : The Palestinian National Authority (PNA) on Tuesday vowed that peace talks with Israel will remain suspended unless Israel withdraws its decision to build new settlements and accepts ceasefire with the Palestinians. Saeb Erekat, a senior PNA negotiator, told Voice of Palestine radio that the upcoming meeting between Palestinian and Israeli negotiation crews with a U.S. envoy "doesn't mean that the negotiations are resumed."
UNSC set to welcome, strongly support Lebanese Doha agreement
By NNN-KUNA,
United Nations : The Security Council is scheduled to discuss and issue a French-drafted presidential statement Thursday welcoming and strongly supporting the agreement reached Wednesday by Lebanese leaders in Doha, Qatar, under the Arab League auspices.
The council would consider the agreement an "essential step" towards the resolution of the Lebanese current crisis, the return to the normal functioning of Lebanese democratic institutions, and the complete restoration of Lebanon's unity, stability and, independence.
Pakistan: anti-state elements involved in blasts
By NNN-APP,
Karachi : Sindh Information Minister, Shazia Marri has said that in the Karachi bomb blasts anti-state elements were involved and they were trying to destabilize the country.
“We will not allow their nefarious designs to succeed”, she said adding that it was incorrect to suggest that these blasts took place in areas inhabited by Pashtoons, but in different Abadis.
Addressing a press conference late Monday evening, she pointed out that there had already been high alert in Karachi and security arrangements were being monitored.
Photo exhibition opens on 2010 Pakistan floods
By IANS,
Islamabad : A photo exhibition is being held here to mark last year's devastating floods in Pakistan that impacted over 20 million people.
One killed as foreigners” vehicle hit bomb in Kabul
By KUNA,
Kabul : One person was killed as a bomb hit a vehicle carrying foreigners in Afghanistan capital of Kabul on Sunday, witnesses and police said.
The bomb hit the vehicle in Bagrami district of Kabul in the morning.
Police and witnesses said one foreigner was killed and another wounded in the blast that targeted a military convoy that was on way towards Kabul.
NATO's press office in Kabul confirmed the blast but did not give information about the casualties.
The site of the explosion is located on the eastern outskirts of Kabul.
Iranian Official proposes boycotting Wikipedia for sacrilegious act
Tehran, Feb 17, IRNA , An Iranian cultural official on Sunday proposed boycotting online encyclopedia 'Wikipedia' in Iran and other Muslim states for publishing Danish sacrilegious caricatures.
The official said Muslims have voiced strong protest against the sacrilegious move, calling on the website to remove the insulting caricature from its site.
He said the negligence on the part of those running the site towards the issue has caused the blatant insult to the world Muslims.
Understanding Pakistan’s tribal areas
By Frankie Martin and Hailey Woldt,
The vows of the new Pakistani coalition government to begin a dialogue with militants has turned many heads. To Washington's dismay, the new government led by Nawaz Sharif and Benazir Bhutto's widower Asif Ali Zardari seems to have a different perspective on fighting terrorism. Here's why we should pay attention.
Pakistan PM accords approval to host Asian Political Parties Conference in October
By NNN-APP
Islamabad : Caretaker Prime Minister Mohammedmian Soomro accorded approval to host International Conference of Asian Political Parties (ICAP) General Assembly here in October this year.
Senate of Pakistan would host the Conference and the government would provide necessary financial, logistic and administrative support.
The Prime Minister accorded the approval while talking to a delegation of South Korean parliamentarians comprising Mr. Chong and Dr. Kim which called on him here Thursday.
Bombing at Shia procession in Pakistan kills 30
By DPA,
Islamabad : A suicide bombing tore through a procession of Shia Muslims in Pakistan's southern port city of Karachi Monday, killing at least 30 people and injuring more than 80, officials said.
Hundreds of Shia mourners were marching on the main M A Jinnah Road lined with multi-storey buildings when the attacker detonated his explosives close to the front of the procession.
"At least 30 people are confirmed dead and more than 80 others wounded," Hashim Raza Zaidi, the top health official in the province Sindh, of which Karachi is the capital, told Geo television.
12 Indians lose jobs, have no money to return home
By IANS,
Kuala Lumpur : Twelve Indian nationals working in Malaysia have lost jobs and have no money to return as their employers have not paid their outstanding dues.
R. Arokiasamy, 28, said they were recruited on a three-year work permit by a company specialising in making computer parts based in Taman Desa Cemerlang in Ulu Tiram, Johor state.
The company failed to renew their work permits, which expired October, and paid them two months' salary for terminating their employment, The Star newspaper said Thursday.
Pakistan warns India to take water treaty violation case in the court
By KUNA,
Islamabad : Pakistan Monday warned India to end violaation of water treaty and release its share of water from their reservoir or it will take the issue to the International Court of Arbitration. If India continues violations of Indus Water Treaty then options were open for Pakistan to take the issue into the court of arbitration or to neutral experts, said Indus Water Commissioner Syed Jamaat Ali Shah while talking to media.
Indian woman’s verdict in stabbing case delayed in Bahrain
Dubai: The verdict on an Indian woman on trial for killing her husband in Bahrain has been delayed by three months, media reported on...
Beirut clashes expand to Bekaa areas
By Xinhua,
Beirut : Clashed between pro- and anti-government camps in Lebanon spread to the Bekaa region, where two people were wounded, local Elnashra Website reported on Thursday.
The casualties took place in the Bekaa towns of Taalabaya and Saadnayel, where gunmen were deployed in the streets, with others manning automatic rifles on rooftops, according to the report.
Protesters blocked several roads in Western Bekaa, and the Marjroad leading to Massna on the Syrian-Lebanese northern borders.
82 migrants killed as boat sinks near Yemen
By Xinhua
Sanaa : At least 82 people, mostly Somalis, have lost their lives when their boat capsized off the southern coast of Yemen, local media quoted authorities as saying.
According to Yemeni officials, the accident occurred on the Gulf of Aden, near the Ahwar town of the southern province of Abyan of Yemen, when a wooden boat carrying the migrants capsized after it struck a rock Jan 18.
So far, the rescue officials and local fishermen have rescued 30 survivors and recovered 22 bodies, the officials said.
Three Afghan soldiers killed in roadside mine blast
By Xinhua
Kabul : Three Afghan National Army (ANA) soldiers were killed and three more injured when their patrol vehicle was struck by a roadside mine in southern Afghanistan's Musa Qala district Wednesday morning, the district chief said.
Musa Qala, a Taliban stronghold in Afghanistan's troubled Helmand province, was regained by Afghan government forces last December during a major offensive launched with assistance from foreign troops.
Iranian official refutes reports over resignation of FM
By NNN-KUNA
Tehran : Iranian Foreign Ministry denied news reports over resignation of Foreign Minister Manuchehr Mottaki from his post.
An official at the Iranian Foreign Ministry who did not disclose his name told Al-Alam news channel that the news was untrue and that the minister was staying in his post.
Obama hails Pakistani polls
By IANS,
Washington : US President Barack Obama has hailed the National Assembly election in Pakistan, calling it "a significant milestone" in the country's democracy building.
Obama reaffirms support to Syrian refugees in Lebanon
Washington: The US will continue to provide support to Syrian refugees and host communities in Lebanon, US President Barack Obama told Lebanese Prime Minister...
Pakistan: nine killed, two injured in Swat valley of NWFP
By NNN-PTI
Islamabad : Nine persons were killed and two others injured as Pakistani security forces continued their operations against pro-Taliban militants in the restive Swat valley of the North West Frontier Province.
Seven members of a family died when their house was hit during overnight shelling by security forces on suspected militant positions at Kabal tehsil in Swat. The bodies of two persons, who are believed to have been shot, were also found by security forces, Dawn News channel reported today.
Bush courts Saudi allies after warning Iran
RIYADH (AFP) - US President George W. Bush began a visit to close ally Saudi Arabia on Monday to rally support from the regional economic and political powerhouse for his campaign to isolate archfoe Iran.
US for ‘hands-off’ approach on government making in Pakistan
By Arun Kumar, IANS
Washington : The US says it is looking forward to working with the new Pakistan government once it is formed, but it's completely up to political leaders there to work out new power sharing arrangements.
Washington would work with the new dispensation in Pakistan with special focus on "the continuing fight against terrorism, our counter-terrorism efforts", State Department spokesman Sean McCormack told reporters Tuesday.
"I know that that is an issue of interest to the government of Pakistan and certainly to the people of Pakistan."
Fatah armed wing says not committed to the truce with Israel
By Xinhua
Ramallah : Al-Aqsa Brigades, the armed wing of Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas' Fatah movement in the West Bank said on Wednesday that it is not committed to the truce with Israel after its members were arrested.
A special Israeli army force stormed the city of Nablus, amid intensive gunfire and nabbed five Palestinian young men, members of the brigades, the group said in a leaflet sent to reporters.
French president calls on Lebanese to join hands
By KUNA,
Beirut : French President Nicolas Sarkozy on Saturday called on the Lebanese parties to honor the Qatari-mediated conciliation accord and affirmed his current visit was aimed at demonstrating support for the country, particularly to President Michel Suleiman.
Pakistan stands by its female scientist convicted in US
By IANS,
Islamabad: Expressing concern over the US court judgment convicting a Pakistani female scientist for attempting to kill an American soldier, Pakistan said Thursday it will provide all assistance in her legal process.
President Asif Ali Zardari asked the concerned ministries of his government to immediately establish contact with the family of Aafia Siddiqui and provide her with possible legal assistance in the US.
Lebanon charges ISIS suspects for terror plots
Beirut : A Lebanese military court Monday charged 28 people with being affiliated with an Al Qaeda breakaway group and planning to carry out...
Afghanistan welcomes Obama’s revised strategy
By DPA,
Kabul: Afghan Foreign Minister Rangin Dadfar Spanta Wednesday welcomed the revised strategy of US President Barack Obama for Afghanistan, saying it would give his country a chance to take over the security of the war-torn country from international troops.
President Obama unveiled his long-awaited revised Afghanistan strategy in a speech on Tuesday in which he pledged to send 30,000 additional US troops to Afghanistan, but set a time frame of 18 months for US troops to start withdrawal after handing over security
to Afghan forces.
Bangladesh president rejects Mujib killers’ mercy petitions
By IANS,
Dhaka : Bangladesh President Zillur Rahman has rejected the mercy petitions of three of the five former army officers who were sentenced to death for the killing of the country's founding father Sheikh Mujibur Rahman in 1975.
Mohammed Shafiul Alam, secretary to the president, told bdnews24.com: "There is nothing more to do here. The petition has been refused and was sent to the home ministry on Sunday."
New opportunity for peace in Mideast: Bush
By DPA
Tel Aviv : US President George W. Bush arrived in Israel Wednesday at the start of a three-day visit and said that he saw a "new opportunity" for peace in the in the Middle East.
"The US and Israel are strong allies. The source of that strength is a shared belief in the power of human freedom. Our people built two great democracies under difficult circumstances," he told dignitaries at the welcoming ceremony Ben-Gurion International Airport near Tel Aviv.
"The alliance between our two nations helps guarantee Israel's security as a Jewish state," he said.
Make corporates answerable: Bangladesh information chief
By IANS,
Dhaka : Bangladesh's Chief Information Officer (CIC) wants that the Right to Information Act be amended to cover corporate offices and MNCs operating in the country to effectively combat corruption.
According to CIC Muhammad Zamir, bringing them under the RTI's purview was essential to ensure transparency and accountability of business organisations.
13 killed in Baghdad bomb blasts
Baghdad : As many as 13 people have been killed in two explosions in Iraq's capital Baghdad Monday, a police source said.
Thirteen people were...
Badawi to announce new Cabinet
By SPA
Kuala Lumpur : rime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi is set to announce his new Cabinet, albeit a relatively smaller one, by Tuesday, which will likely see a host of new faces who emerged victorious in the just-ended general election, reported Bernama.
Early indications show the line-up may consist of between 26 and 28 ministries from the previous 31, with some ministries to be merged.
Ahmadinejad offers US access to Iran’s nuclear scientists
By DPA,
New York : Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad has offered the US and other Western powers access to scientists working in his country's nuclear programme, according to a report by the Washington Post Thursday.
The offer - a confidence-building measure - was broached by Ahmadinejad while speaking with Post editors at the United Nations Wednesday.
He added that Iran would seek to buy enriched uranium from the US to use for medical purposes. A rejection, he was cited as saying, would only prove that Iran needed to enrich its own uranium.
Hizballah Decries Israel Buildup
By Prensa Latina
Beirut : A supposedly defensive military drill in Israel against possible rocket attacks from Lebanon is considered by Hizballah (God's Party) a veiled training session for another war.
The exercise responds to alleged aggression by Syria, Hizballah (Lebanon) and the Islamic Resistance settled in the Palestinian territory of Gaza Strip.
The maneuver, called Critical Moment, will last for five days and the security committee led by Prime Minister Ehud Olmert is foreseen to meet on Monday.
Jordanian FM, Russian envoy discuss Mideast developments
By NNN-KUNA
Amman : Jordanian Foreign Minister Salah al-Din Al-Bashir has held discussions here with the Russian envoy for the peace process in the Middle East, Alexander Sultanov, on efforts to push forward the peace process.
Al-Bashir said Monday that Jordan supported enhanced Russian role in the peace process, mainly in this critical situation, which requires intensifying international efforts to push forward talks between the Palestinians and Israelis.
Nine killed in multiple explosions in Syria
Damascus : At least nine people were killed and over 20 others injured in three different explosions Sunday in the Syrian city of Homs,...
2 killed in explosion in Gaza
By SPA,
Gaza City, Gaza Strip : Palestinian medics say that Two Palestinians have been killed in the northern Gaza Strip.
Medics say an Israeli strike killed the men, according to a report of Associated Press.
The Popular Resistance Committees Group says one of the dead was a member. The identity of the other man has not been confirmed.
Death toll in Gaza from Israeli airstrikes reaches over 380
By RIA Novosti,
Gaza/Tel Aviv : At least 7 Palestinians were killed on Wednesday as Israeli military aircraft and helicopters continued their attacks on Gaza bringing the death toll to 387, Palestinian health officials said.
More than 1,800 Palestinians have also been injured in the five-day offensive, which Israel launched on Saturday in what it called "an all-out war" against Hamas in response to militant rocket attacks on southern border towns from Gaza.
Six killed in attack on NGO van in Pakistan
By IANS,
Islamabad : Six people were killed in Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province Tuesday when some unidentified men attacked a van carrying NGO workers, Geo News reported.
Women suicide bombers kill 40 in Iraq
By Xinhua,
Baghdad : At least 50 people were killed and more than 100 injured in a series of bomb attacks carried out by female suicide squads in Iraq Monday, authorities said.
Three female suicide bombers blew themselves up in quick succession in a crowd of Shia pilgrims in Baghdad killing at least 19 people and wounding more than 40 while in the northern city of Kirkuk another female human bomb detonated her explosive vest killing 22 people and wounding about 45, police said.