PAKISTAN AND AFGHANISTAN
Pakistan rules out talks with TTP, urges Afghanistan to act against terror groups
Pakistan has ruled out talks with the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), citing their involvement in killings. Pakistan's Foreign Office urged Afghanistan to act against terrorists on its soil. The Illegal Foreign Repatriation Plan has repatriated over half a million undocumented refugees, despite criticism. Islamabad expects Afghan authorities to address terror threats.
Use of M4 carbine assault rifles in terror attacks in J-K alarming: Experts
The use of American-made M4 carbine assault rifles by terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir has raised concerns among experts. These rifles, left behind by the US Army after its Afghanistan pullout in 2021, have reportedly been obtained by terrorists through Pakistani handlers. The M4 carbine, known for its maneuverability and lethal steel bullets, poses a significant threat due to its advanced capabilities. Despite efforts to secure these weapons, their presence has intensified attacks in the region, prompting security forces to adapt strategies to counter this evolving threat.
As violence surges, can Pakistan protect its Chinese projects?
Security measures in Pakistan are being ramped up to protect Chinese workers amidst rising militant violence targeting Chinese-funded projects. Recent attacks have led to casualties and raised concerns about the security of investments. The situation has prompted discussions on balancing security priorities.
Pakistan defense minister vows ‘no cake and pastries’ for TTP militants, after apparent China's warning
Pakistan's defense minister Khawaja Asif confirmed military strikes in Afghanistan for counter terrorism. Tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan rose post-Taliban 2021 takeover, with Islamabad accusing Kabul of harboring militants
The T20 World Cup was a milestone for cricket's global ambitions
With the decision to increase the size of the tournament to 20 teams and to play part of the group stage in the USA, the International Cricket Council (ICC) saw this World Cup as a vehicle for expansion of the sport's popularity. More teams from emerging cricket nations were given a chance to perform on the global stage and Americans were offered the opportunity to engage with a sport far from their mainstream.
T20 WC highlights: USA's sparkling debut, Afghan bravehearts' dream run and India's brilliance
While India strengthened their position as one of the true behemoths of the modern game with their embarrassment of riches in terms of talent, and an unerring determination to win, the others too, with their extremely high standard of cricket, contributed handsomely in making it an unforgettable tournament.
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Jaishankar to represent India at SCO summit in Astana
India's External Affairs Minister, S Jaishankar, will represent the country at the annual summit of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) in Astana. The summit, scheduled for July 3 and 4, is expected to focus on regional security, connectivity, and trade. The SCO, comprising India, China, Russia, Pakistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan, is an influential economic and security bloc.
What is Azm-e-Istehkam, Pakistan's new military operation tasked to take on TTP and other militant groups
Pakistan’s leadership approved a new military operation, Azm-e-Istehkam (Resolve for Stability), to combat rising violence and terrorism. Following Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s review of counterterrorism efforts, the operation targets domestic security threats and cross-border fighters from Afghanistan. The initiative includes socioeconomic measures to reduce extremism and aims to strengthen legal support for prosecuting terrorists. The plan addresses increased violence, potential cross-border tensions, and Chinese concerns about infrastructure security.
Celebrations erupt in Afghan cities after World Cup heroics
The Afghanistan Cricket Team's journey to the World Cup semi-finals brought immense joy to the nation, uniting fans in celebration and hope for future success against South Africa.
T20 World Cup: Afghanistan's run to semifinals will inspire youth back home, says Rashid Khan
Afghanistan's skipper Rashid Khan sees their first T20 World Cup semifinal qualification as a historic achievement that will inspire the nation's youth, following victories over New Zealand and Australia. The team's progress in white-ball cricket, led by coach Jonathan Trott, has instilled self-belief. Despite facing unbeaten South Africa in the semifinal, Rashid remains confident in their abilities and draws inspiration from Nepal's spirited performance.
Countering ISIS threat to top SCO Summit agenda
The SCO Summit in Astana will focus on countering ISIS threats in Afghanistan, Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, Russia, and Iran, including plans to target India. It will address the terrorist network, literature promoting attacks, counter-terror cooperation, and efforts to radicalize youth in the region.
Mystery pitch awaits crestfallen Pakistan in Twenty20 World Cup cricket match against India
Pakistan captain Babar Azam cannot afford another loss that might put his team's progress to the Super 8 playoff stage in serious danger. Nothing seems to have gone right for Pakistan since the Babar-led team lost the T20 World Cup final against England in 2022. Pakistan lost T20 internationals against Afghanistan, understrength New Zealand, Ireland and England before losing to the U.S in the shock upset on Thursday.
President Xi & Pak PM Sharif discuss deepening strategic cooperation
Chinese President Xi Jinping and Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif discussed deepening strategic cooperation as Pakistan opts out of attending Narendra Modi's swearing-in ceremony with other SAARC leaders.
Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif to visit China June 4-8, foreign ministry says
Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif will visit China from June 4 to 8 on the invitation of President Xi Jinping. The trip aims to strengthen cooperation under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and address security concerns following recent attacks on Chinese citizens in Pakistan.
Russia says Islamic State behind deadly Moscow concert hall attack
Russia has confirmed that Islamic State coordinated the March concert hall attack in Moscow, the deadliest terror attack in two decades. The attack, which killed over 140 people, was coordinated via the internet by members of Khorasan Province (IS-K), an IS branch active in Afghanistan and Pakistan. Russia has repeatedly tried to link Ukraine and the West to the attack, but has denied involvement.
Chabahar Port to reduce Afghanistan’s dependence on Karachi: Kabul
The Taliban has welcomed India's 10-year management rights over Iran's Chabahar Port, viewing it as an alternative to Pakistan's Karachi Port. They support the port's expansion, which they believe will enhance economic stability and benefit Afghanistan. The Afghanistan-India trade in 2023 reached $773 million. The Afghanistan Chamber of Industries and Mines sees increased investment in Chabahar as beneficial for regional trade. A special zone for Afghan traders at Chabahar Port further facilitates export and import activities.
India’s counter to Pakistan’s Gwadar port: New Delhi signs 10-year Chabahar Port pact with Iran
India signed a 10-year agreement with Iran on Monday to manage Chabahar Port, marking its first overseas port management venture. The move, amidst a bustling election season, is viewed as a significant geopolitical gesture towards Iran, with potential regional ramifications. This agreement underscores India's strategic interest in Chabahar, which serves as a vital link to Afghanistan, Central Asia, and the larger Eurasian region, offering an alternative to Pakistan's Gwadar port and China's Belt and Road Initiative.
Taliban reject Pakistan's claim Afghan bomber involved in deadly attack on Chinese dam engineers
Pakistan's military had said at a press conference on Tuesday that a suicide bomb attack in March in Pakistan's northern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, that killed five Chinese engineers, was planned in neighbouring Afghanistan, and that the bomber was an Afghan national.
Pakistan forces neutralise 11 terrorists in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province: Official
In the first operation, a total of 10 terrorists were neutralised by the security forces carried on in the province's Dera Ismail Khan sanctuaries after receiving intelligence input, according to the statement issued by the Pakistan Army's media wing ISPR.
Pakistan Defence Minister optimistic of improving bilateral ties with New Delhi post-Lok Sabha elections
Pakistan's Defence Minister, Khawaja Asif, expressed optimism for improved ties with India post its upcoming elections from April to June. Amid strained relations due to alleged terrorism support and territorial disputes, Asif hopes for a shift after India's elections. He also addressed Pakistan's relations with Afghanistan and ongoing efforts against terrorism.
Why US allows Pakistani double games
It's been a while since the Pakistani establishment has felt 'wanted' by Washington. The last big splash on US shores was in 2019 when Donald Trump received Imran Khan at the White House. It's been downhill ever since. When Joe Biden took office, he didn't even bother to call Khan, abandoning tradition with aplomb while Khan and his advisers waited by the phone.
Pakistan to soon launch second phase of repatriation of documented Afghans
Pakistan prepares for the second phase of Afghan refugee repatriation, targeting nearly one million documented Afghans holding Afghan Citizen Cards (ACC). Amid concerns about undocumented Afghans, officials aim to complete mapping and data collection by March 25, 2024, with plans for repatriation to commence thereafter, despite uncertainty and international criticism.
ISIS-K, group tied to Moscow attack, has grown bolder and more violent
The Islamic State-Khorasan (ISIS-K), an affiliate of the Taliban, has been criticized by the West for its violent attacks on the Taliban government. ISIS-K, which took responsibility for a terrorist attack in Moscow, has used the violence to undermine the Taliban's relationships with regional allies and portray the government as incapable of providing security in Afghanistan. The group has carried out near daily attacks on their soldiers and targeted the Russian Embassy in Kabul, Pakistan, and sent gunmen into a prominent hotel in Kabul.
Who is Hafiz Gul Bahadur, the militant leader who ignited war between Pakistan-Afghanistan?
Hafiz Gul Bahadur was a prominent militant leader in Pakistan's tribal region of North Waziristan. He was known for his involvement in militant activities and his ties to the Afghan Taliban. Bahadur's group, while maintaining a separate identity, had connections to influential groups such as the Haqqani Network, Al Qaeda, and the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). He was a key figure in the region's militant landscape and played a significant role in the conflict dynamics between Pakistan and Afghanistan.
Why is Pakistan attacking Afghanistan again?
Pakistan has carried out airstrikes inside Afghanistan, leading to heightened tensions between the two countries. The escalation began after Afghanistan accused Pakistan of killing eight of its citizens. The airstrikes targeted terrorists from the Hafiz Gul Bahadur Group, resulting in civilian casualties. The deteriorating ties between Pakistan and the Taliban can be traced back to the Taliban's return to power in Afghanistan, which has emboldened the TTP. Pakistan's decision to deport thousands of Afghan immigrants has also strained relations. The situation remains tense, with both countries exchanging accusations and the international community monitoring closely for a peaceful resolution.
Kabul says 8 killed in Pakistani air strikes on eastern Afghanistan
Pakistani air strikes in Afghan border regions killed eight, including three children, sparking condemnation from the Taliban government. The strikes hit civilian homes in Khost and Paktika provinces early Monday. The Taliban termed it a sovereignty violation, amid rising tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan since the Taliban's 2021 takeovers
Afghanistan retaliates against Pakistan after air strikes kill eight
Pakistani military air strikes kill Afghan civilians, prompting Afghan forces to retaliate. Tensions rise since Taliban's 2021 power seizure. Taliban condemns attacks on civilian homes. Malak Noor Khan witnesses drone bombings targeting Waziristan refugees.
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