Wednesday, 31 October 2018

Wagamama sold to Frankie & Benny's owner

The Asian-themed restaurant chain is being bought in a deal which values the business at £559m.

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J
from USA BULK NEWS

Budget 2018: Premium Bonds more 'accessible' for children

More family members will be able to buy Premium Bonds for children - giving them a 24,500 to 1 chance to win.

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J
from USA BULK NEWS

Italy's economy stalls as eurozone slows down

Italy's economy stalls as growth in the 19-country eurozone slows to just 0.2% in the third quarter.

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J
from USA BULK NEWS

BP profits double on higher prices and new oil fields

The oil giant reports its strongest quarterly results for five years, helped by higher prices and output.

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J
from USA BULK NEWS

Sony eyes record profit as gaming hits boost earnings

Strong demand for Spider-Man and other games is helping drive earnings at the Japanese electronics giant.

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J
from USA BULK NEWS

Uber appeals against drivers' rights to pay and holiday

The taxi-hailing app appeals against a ruling its drivers should be treated as workers, not self employed.

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J
from USA BULK NEWS

Hammond v McDonnell on Budget 'end of austerity' claim

The chancellor says public spending - apart from on the NHS - will not go up in real terms.

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J
from USA BULK NEWS

US targets Chinese firm over national security fears

The US said trade with Chinese chipmaker Fujian Jinhua poses a risk to "national security interests".

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J
from USA BULK NEWS

Budget 2018: What do the housing measures mean?

More help is announced for first-time buyers and plans to create more homes on the High Street.

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J
from USA BULK NEWS

Budget 2018: Tech giants face digital services tax

Chancellor Philip Hammond plans to tax the sales that digital giants generate in the UK.

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J
from USA BULK NEWS

Budget 2018: Self-employed face higher tax and NI payments

Freelance groups describe tax changes as a "smash and grab raid"

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J
from USA BULK NEWS

Budget 2018: Philip Hammond hails better borrowing figures

Borrowing is set to keep falling, but the chancellor all but abandons a target to eliminate the deficit.

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J
from USA BULK NEWS

Bitcoin: The first ten years

Bitcoin was born ten years ago. What has it brought the world?

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J
from USA BULK NEWS

Budget 2018: Chancellor abolishes PFI for future projects

The government will not enter into further Private Finance Initiative projects, but will honour those under way, says the chancellor.

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J
from USA BULK NEWS

Budget 2018: Chancellor on austerity 'finally coming to an end'

Philip Hammond opens his Budget speech "for Britain's future", saying it would be for "the strivers, the grafters and the carers".

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J
from USA BULK NEWS

US mail bombs: Who is financier George Soros?

The billionaire financier and philanthropist was targeted in a US mail-bombing campaign.

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J
from USA BULK NEWS

Linda Liukas, Hello Ruby and the magic of coding

Linda Liukas wants to show children that writing code for computers can be magical.

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J
from USA BULK NEWS

Budget 2018: Key announcements from the chancellor

Politics Live presenter Andrew Neil goes through the key announcements from the chancellor in his 2018 Budget.

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J
from USA BULK NEWS

Nile Rodgers: 'My music makes people feel good'

Nile Rodgers, king of 1970s disco: 'The music I produce make people feel good'

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J
from USA BULK NEWS

Are hydrogen trains the future of UK travel?

Trains that emit pure water could be in the UK by the "early 2020s", according to the government.

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J
from USA BULK NEWS

Do schools help or hinder social mobility?

"Meritocracy is the big promise of our democracies," says the OECD. But are education systems delivering?

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J
from USA BULK NEWS

What should I do with my broken kettle?

Our household appliances could have much longer lives if they were designed to be easily repaired.

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J
from USA BULK NEWS

Breaking news: Protests break out after Pakistan’s Supreme Court acquits Aasia Bibi

She was convicted and sentenced to death in 2010

from Samaa Digital https://ift.tt/2SuOwVA
via IFTTT

Sania and Shoaib name their baby Izhaan Mirza-Malik

Shoaib Malik announced that Mirza was doing great and thanked everyone

from Samaa Digital https://ift.tt/2PtknHK
via IFTTT

Iranian foreign minister arrives in Pakistan to discuss missing border guards

They will also be discussing relations between the two countries and issues of mutual interest

from Samaa Digital https://ift.tt/2Q2wj02
via IFTTT

Court throws out Fata interim rules, gives Islamabad, KP a month to set up courts

Fata was merged with KP in May

from Samaa Digital https://ift.tt/2SwDGyA
via IFTTT

Opp wants to make Shehbaz Sharif public accounts committee head at any cost

Shah met Sharif brothers in the opposition leader’s chamber

from Samaa Digital https://ift.tt/2JsCQPc
via IFTTT

How can we be safe if our sons don’t serve: Karak martyr’s father

Cop killed in 2010 replaced by brother

from Samaa Digital https://ift.tt/2CQym3r
via IFTTT

Khashoggi was investigating use of chemical weapons in Yemen before murder: tabloid

The Saudi govt blamed the murder on rogue agents

from Samaa Digital https://ift.tt/2CPTUgF
via IFTTT

Former LHC judge killed in ‘targeted attack’ in Gujar Khan

The attackers fled

from Samaa Digital https://ift.tt/2qjHTc8
via IFTTT

KP bans use of smartphones and tablets in hospitals

Use of smartphones led to doctors neglecting their duties

from Samaa Digital https://ift.tt/2OZIle3
via IFTTT

Two policemen arrested for ‘robbing’ people in Faisalabad

A case has been registered

from Samaa Digital https://ift.tt/2CO7dOM
via IFTTT

Can artificial intelligence help stop religious violence?

Oxford University researchers have created a simulation designed to help prevent religious conflict.

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J
from BBC News - Technology https://ift.tt/2zeK8Bw

Android's under-5s apps have 'unfair and deceptive' ads

Campaign groups and university researchers raise concerns about the ads found in Android apps.

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J
from BBC News - Technology https://ift.tt/2Q722gw

Police ground drones after reports they fall out of the sky

Some incidents in which DJI drones "suffered a complete loss of power" have concerned UK authorities.

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J
from BBC News - Technology https://ift.tt/2P2sifB

Porn-loving US official spreads malware to government network

The employee at the US Geological Survey had an "extensive history" of visiting adult websites.

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J
from BBC News - Technology https://ift.tt/2Px98Og

Pittsburgh shooting: Gab drops offline after attack

PayPal and others pulled support for Gab's "free speech" service after a gun attack on a synagogue.

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J
from BBC News - Technology https://ift.tt/2DefcFQ

Teaching kids the magic of coding

Linda Liukas wants to show children that writing code for computers can be magical.

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J
from BBC News - Technology https://ift.tt/2AzEjAd

Red Hydrogen One: The internet reacts to the 3D-enabled phone

A smartphone with a pioneering 3D display fails to convince technology experts of its merits.

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J
from BBC News - Technology https://ift.tt/2P10s3l

Sony eyes record profit as gaming hits boost earnings

Strong demand for Spider-Man and other games is helping drive earnings at the Japanese electronics giant.

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J
from BBC News - Technology https://ift.tt/2qi0o0n

MIT invites you to control a human on Halloween

Researchers want internet users to vote on which actions an actor will take in a new social experiment.

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J
from BBC News - Technology https://ift.tt/2Q91ZRG

Uber appeals against drivers' rights to pay and holiday

The taxi-hailing app appeals against a ruling its drivers should be treated as workers, not self employed.

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J
from BBC News - Technology https://ift.tt/2CPpTh9

Budget 2018: Tech giants face digital services tax

Chancellor Philip Hammond plans to tax the sales that digital giants generate in the UK.

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J
from BBC News - Technology https://ift.tt/2z9Szht

Dad creates VR world to help daughter

Craig Chaytor's 360° videos were inspired by his daughter's learning difficulties.

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J
from BBC News - Technology https://ift.tt/2JrGeKl

Driverless cars: Who should die in a crash?

A global study suggests people prefer to save young over elderly people.

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J
from BBC News - Technology https://ift.tt/2CGsIAW

Full text of Supreme Court ruling in Asia Bibi case

Asia Bibi

ISLAMABAD: The Supreme Court on Wednesday overturned the conviction of Asia Bibi, a Christian woman condemned to death for blasphemy, ordering her immediate release from prison.

Headed by Chief Justice of Pakistan Mian Saqib Nisar, a three-judge bench of the apex court gave this verdict on an appeal filed by the woman challenging her capital punishment.

“The appeal is allowed. She has been acquitted. The judgement of high court as well as trial court is reversed. Her conviction is set aside,” the verdict read.

Here is the full text of the 56-page long verdict given by the bench in the blasphemy case.

The post Full text of Supreme Court ruling in Asia Bibi case appeared first on ARYNEWS.



from ARYNEWS https://ift.tt/2QfhxD6
via IFTTT

Afghan army helicopter crashes, killing 25 on board

Afghanistan helicopter crash

KABUL: An Afghan army helicopter crashed in southwestern Afghanistan on Wednesday, killing 25 crew and passengers, provincial officials said.

Naser Mehri, a spokesman for the governor of western Farah province, said two army helicopters were on their way to neighboring Herat province when one lost control.

He said the aircraft crashed in bad weather. A Taliban spokesman said the militants shot it down.

More to follow….

The post Afghan army helicopter crashes, killing 25 on board appeared first on ARYNEWS.



from ARYNEWS https://ift.tt/2SvCMSR
via IFTTT

Lawyers exercise right of vote to elect SCBA’s new body

ISLAMABAD: The members of Supreme Court Bar are exercising their right to vote on Wednesday (today) in the ongoing election of the Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA)  to elect its new body for 2018-19.

A total of 3,047 voters across the country cast their votes to elect the 22-member body.

Ali Ahmed Kurd, the candidate fielded by Asma Jahangir Group contesting for the SCBA’s President slot against Haimd Khan group’s candidate, Amanullah Kanrani.

Kurd, who was a leader of the lawyers’ movement for restoration of judges in 2007, is being supported by the former SCBA President, Yasin Azad, while Amanullah Kanrani, who had resigned as advocate general of Balochistan in March this year, is getting support from Law Minister Dr Farogh Nasim and Attorney General of Pakistan Anwar Mansoor Khan, who have been affiliated with Hamid Khan group.

As per policy of SCBA, the president of the bar is elected from different province each year as per rotation policy. The slot of the president has been reserved for Balochistan this year .

For the slot of the secretary general of SCBA, the contest is between Shamim-ur-Rehman Malik and Azmatullah Chaudhry, while Ali Ahmed Rana and Mahmood A Sheikh are running for the position of finance secretary .

The process of polling started at 9:00 am today to continue till 5:00 pm without any break. Polling stations have been set up in Karachi, Quetta, Peshawar, Abbottabad, Lahore, Multan, Bahawalpur, Islamabad and other cities.

The SCBA body consists of the president, four vice-presidents (one from each province), secretary, additional secretary, finance secretary and 14 members elected from across Pakistan (at least two from each province).

The post Lawyers exercise right of vote to elect SCBA’s new body appeared first on ARYNEWS.



from ARYNEWS https://ift.tt/2Qfgkf2
via IFTTT

US calls for Yemen ceasefire, Mattis urges for peace talks within ‘next 30 days’

Assad

WASHINGTON: The United States called Tuesday for a ceasefire and peace talks in Yemen, as the Saudi-led military coalition sent more than 10,000 new troops toward a vital rebel-held port city ahead of a new assault.

Pentagon chief Jim Mattis said the US had been watching the conflict “for long enough,” adding that Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), which are in a US-backed coalition fighting Houthi rebels, are ready for talks.

“We have got to move toward a peace effort here, and we can’t say we are going to do it sometime in the future,” Mattis said at the US Institute of Peace in Washington.

“We need to be doing this in the next 30 days.”

He said the US is calling for all warring parties to meet with United Nations special envoy Martin Griffiths in Sweden in November and “come to a solution”.

US-Saudi ties have cooled in recent weeks after the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi, a prominent critic of the conservative kingdom, that has also tarnished the image of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

Saudi Arabia and its allies intervened in the conflict between embattled Yemeni President Abdrabbuh Mansur Hadi, whose government is recognised by the UN, and the Houthis in 2015.

Nearly 10,000 people have since been killed and the country now stands at the brink of famine, with more than 22 million Yemenis — three-quarters of the population — in need of humanitarian assistance.

The pro-government coalition deployed its reinforcements to the Red Sea coast ahead of a new offensive on Hodeida “within days,” a military official told AFP earlier.

He said they would also “secure areas liberated” from the Iran-linked Houthi rebels, and that forces from Sudan, part of the coalition, had moved into “secure” areas around the city.

Houthi rebels have for the past 10 days been stationing fighters on rooftops of buildings in Hodeida city, government military officials told AFP.

The adjacent port is the entry point for more than 70 percent of imports to the impoverished country.

Peace is ‘the only way’

The US has faced fierce international criticism for its role in supporting the Saudi-led coalition, especially after a series of strikes killed scores of civilians.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo called for an end to all coalition air strikes in Yemen’s populated areas.

“The time is now for the cessation of hostilities, including missile and UAV (drone) strikes from Houthi-controlled areas into the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates,” Pompeo said in a statement.

“Subsequently, coalition air strikes must cease in all populated areas in Yemen.”

Mattis said US support is based primarily on teaching the Saudi air force to improve targeting and to not drop bombs when there is any doubt about what they might hit.

“Our goal right now is to achieve a level of capability by those forces fighting against the Houthis that they are not killing innocent people,” he said.

Mattis said the ceasefire should be based on a pullback of Houthi rebels from the border and a ceasefire, and the parties must come together to end the war.

“That will permit the special envoy Martin Griffiths… to get them together in Sweden and end this war. That is the only way we are going to really solve this,” he added.

Last month, UN-led peace talks failed to take off after Houthi rebels refused to fly to Geneva over what they said was the UN’s failure to guarantee a safe return to the capital Sanaa, which the group has controlled since 2014.

Pompeo said the peace talks would aim to “implement confidence-building measures to address the underlying issues of the conflict, the demilitarisation of borders and the concentration of all large weapons under international observation.”

“A cessation of hostilities and vigorous resumption of a political track will help ease the humanitarian crisis as well,” he added.

“It is time to end this conflict, replace conflict with compromise and allow the Yemeni people to heal through peace and reconstruction.”

 

The post US calls for Yemen ceasefire, Mattis urges for peace talks within ‘next 30 days’ appeared first on ARYNEWS.



from ARYNEWS https://ift.tt/2yI2I5n
via IFTTT

Malala Yousafzai to get Harvard award for education activism

Malala Yousafzai

LONDON: After a number of accolades and recognition for promoting girls education, Nobel Prize Winner, Malala Yousafzai, is set to be honoured by Harvard University for the same cause.

Harvard’s Kennedy School says Yousafzai will be awarded the 2018 Gleitsman Award at a Dec. 6 ceremony.

Yousafzai became the youngest person to win the Nobel Peace Prize in 2014 when she was recognized for her global work supporting schooling for all children.

Malala Yousafzai, will speak at a special event in Edinburgh in December this year.

According to reports, Malala Yousafzai, the youngest ever Nobel Peace Prize winner, will speak at the Social Bite event to thank those taking part in this year’s Sleep in the Park event in December.

Malala elected ‘social secretary’ at Oxford College

Malala Yousafzai, has been living in the UK since October 2012. She was shifted from Pakistan to a hospital in Birmingham after she had sustained a bullet in her head in a targeted attack by militants in Swat. She was on her way home in a school van with other girls after an exam when the TTP men opened fire on them. Two other girls also sustained gunshot wounds.

Five years ago, Malala Yousafzai and her father Ziauddin co-founded the Malala Fund to bring awareness to the social and economic impact of girls’ education worldwide.

On December 10, 2014, Yousafzai received Nobel Peace Prize jointly with Indian children’s rights and education advocate Kailash Satyarthi.

In March this year, Malala returned to Pakistan for the first time after attack and visited her hometown Swat under tight security.

The post Malala Yousafzai to get Harvard award for education activism appeared first on ARYNEWS.



from ARYNEWS https://ift.tt/2OZ4ucK
via IFTTT

SC summons Fawad over IG Islamabad transfer ‘taunt’

Fawad Chaudhry

ISLAMABAD: The Supreme Court on Wednesday summoned Minister for Information and Broadcasting Fawad Chaudhry to explain his position with regard to his recent statement on the transfer of the capital city police chief Jan Muhammad.  

A three-judge bench, headed by Chief Justice of Pakistan Mian Saqib Nisar, was hearing a suo motu case pertaining to removal of the Inspector General of Police Islamabad.

Taking exception to the statement of the federal minister, the chief justice asked him to appear at 11:50am to explain as to “who did he taunt” when he questioned the purpose of holding elections in the country if the elected prime minister couldn’t even suspend an IGP.

Speaking to media outside Parliament House a day earlier, Fawad said the IGs were answerable to the prime minister and chief minister. “If the government is to be run by bureaucrats, then there might be no need for elections as a few bureaucrats might be appointed to run the government.”

Defending the IGP Islamabad’s transfer, he said the police officer was transferred owing to complaints about widespread use of drugs in the capital’s schools and collages and bribery in police stations and check points.

On Monday, the top court suspended a notification regarding removal of IGP Islamabad Jan Muhammad when it was informed that he was removed on the directives of Prime Minister Imran Khan.

The bench expressed extreme displeasure over removal of the IG Islamabad, saying the way he was sent packing is pathetic.

Attorney General Anwar Mansoor informed that the IGP was removed on the verbal directives of the prime minister.

On Oct 27, the grade-20 officer of the Police Services of Pakistan (PSP) was removed and directed to report to the Establishment Division, according to a notification issued by the division.

The post SC summons Fawad over IG Islamabad transfer ‘taunt’ appeared first on ARYNEWS.



from ARYNEWS https://ift.tt/2CQYX0m
via IFTTT

Medical board examines Shehbaz in sub-jail

Shehbaz Sharif

ISLAMABAD: Incarcerated Opposition leader in National Assembly Shehbaz Sharif underwent medical examination on Wednesday at his residence in Minister’s Enclave which was declared a sub-jail by the National Accountability Bureau.

A three-member medical board of polyclinic doctors thoroughly examined the former chief minister and conducted several clinical tests.

Consultant physician Doctor Asif Irfan is heading the medical board which comprises associate cardiac physician Doctor Hamid Iqbal and Doctor Imtiaz Ahmed.

The medical board was formed on the request of the National Accountability Bureau.

On October 29, an accountability court extended the physical remand of Shehbaz Sharif until Nov 7 in Ashiana-e-Iqbal Housing scandal.

Arrest of Shehbaz Sharif

The National Accountability Bureau on Oct 5 arrested Shehbaz Sharif inside its Lahore office where he was summoned to record his statement in connection with the Punjab Saaf Pani Company case.

A combined investigation team of the country’s top anti-graft watchdog quizzed him for an hour over his alleged role in awarding contract to his “favourite firm” in violation of laws in the Ashiana-i-Iqbal housing project.

The Bureau later issued a statement, declaring that former Punjab chief minister Shehbaz Sharif has been arrested in the scam.

Shahbaz’s blue-eyed officers, Lahore Development Authority former director general Ahad Cheema and Fawad Hasan Fawad, are already in NAB custody in the Ashiana Housing case.

 

The post Medical board examines Shehbaz in sub-jail appeared first on ARYNEWS.



from ARYNEWS https://ift.tt/2Q9i3CW
via IFTTT

‘PM’s China visit to focus on acquisition of technology for economic self-reliance’

Imran Khan China

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Imran Khan has said focus of his upcoming visit to China would be on acquisition of technology to make Pakistan self reliant economically. He said this during a meeting with Members of Punjab Assembly in Lahore.

Imran Khan described China as the most important friend of Pakistan. He said the major issue his government had to face after coming to power was the current account deficit.

Prime Minister said Saudi Arabia extended unconditional financial assistance to Pakistan.

He said now with a system of punishment and reward in place, performance of all the ministers will be evaluated and those not performing well will be replaced.

He said Pakistan Citizens Portal has been launched to check corruption.

The prime minister questioned, with reference to the PML-N’s demand that how a person facing charges of corruption could become the Chairman of Public Accounts Committee. He said the government’s priority is to improve governance and catch the big thieves without any disturbance to the poor. He said with focus on health and education, the PTI government is aiming to turn Pakistan into a welfare state.

Members of the provincial assembly expressed their full confidence in the leadership of Prime Minister Imran Khan and Chief Minister Usman Buzdar.

The members also presented various suggestions to the prime minister for improving governance in different areas.

Meanwhile, Adviser to Prime Minister on Commerce, Investment, and Industries Abdul Razak Dawood has said the upcoming visit of Prime Minister Imran Khan to China is aimed at further expanding the scope of China Pakistan Economic Corridor .

He said this while addressing a ceremony held to promote business promotion between Federation of Pakistan Chamber of Commerce and Industry and All Pakistan Chinese Enterprises Association in Islamabad.

The post ‘PM’s China visit to focus on acquisition of technology for economic self-reliance’ appeared first on ARYNEWS.



from ARYNEWS https://ift.tt/2Dcd41t
via IFTTT

Three more infants fall prey to chronic malnutrition in Thar

MITHI: Chronic malnutrition continues to take lives in drought-stricken district of Thar, as recent death of three more infants rises the number of fatalities up to 536 during this year so far.

Situation in Thar despite relief measures by Sindh government to address food shortage in the region, fails to improve, as three more infants died in Mithi’s civil hospital.

Chairman Sindh’s ruling Pakistan People’s Party, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has stressed the need to address malnutrition in the area. This he stated while meeting party MPA from the area, Arbab Lutfullah, who met Bilawal to brief him about current situation of Thar.

Last week, former President and Co Chairman Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) Asif Ali Zardari directed the elected representatives of Tharparkar to submit a report on the situation in the drought-stricken district.

The former president was briefed by chief minister’s special assistant on human rights Dr Khatu Mal on the Thar situation.

“The government will resolve the Thar crisis on a priority basis,”  said Mr Zardari adding that he will soon visit the drought-hit areas.

Asif Zardari said that the people of Thar will not be left alone in this difficult time and directed the provincial government to ensure all humanly possible efforts to provide relief.

Dr Khatu Mal was of the opinion that Tharparkar will continue to reel under drought-like situation until canal water is made available to the region.

Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Mian Saqib Nisar recently heard a case related to the drought in Tharparkar at the apex court’s Karachi registry.

He issued directives for the authorities concerned to take substantial steps to  improve miserable situation in Thar.

CJP Nisar was informed that distribution of wheat is ongoing in the region and special nutrition package is also being provided to address the issue of malnutrition.

Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) during the hearing said he will visit Thar himself to inspect the situation in the area, where chronic malnutrition continuing to add to the misery of the people living in drought-hit area.

The post Three more infants fall prey to chronic malnutrition in Thar appeared first on ARYNEWS.



from ARYNEWS https://ift.tt/2PtT7c6
via IFTTT

Seven killed in suicide attack near Kabul prison

Kabul attack

KABUL: A suicide bomber targeting a bus carrying employees of Afghanistan’s biggest prison killed at least seven people on Wednesday, officials said, in the latest militant attack in the war-torn country.

Another five were wounded in the blast near the facility in Kabul, which police spokesman Basir Mujahid said had hit a vehicle that staff of Pul-e-Charkhi prison were travelling in.

The attacker was on foot, interior ministry spokesman Najib Danish said. He struck as the bus was entering the jail in the east of the Afghan capital.

There was no immediate claim of responsibility for the explosion, but the Islamic State group (IS) has claimed most suicide attacks in Kabul in recent months.

The attack comes days after a suicide bomber blew himself up near the entrance of Afghanistan’s Independent Election Commission in Kabul, killing at least one person and wounding six.

A wave of election-related violence has killed or wounded hundreds across the country in recent months as the Taliban and IS step up attacks on Afghan security forces and government workers.

Afghanistan’s long-delayed parliamentary election, which was held over three days this month, was marred by chaos and deadly attacks.

Two days before voting began on October 20, a Taliban-claimed shooting killed a powerful police chief in the southern province of Kandahar.

General Abdul Raziq was among three people killed in the brazen insider attack on a high-level security meeting in the provincial capital that was attended by General Scott Miller, the top US and NATO commander in Afghanistan.

Miller escaped unhurt, but US Brigadier General Jeffrey Smiley was among 13 people wounded in the shooting, which the Taliban said had targeted Miller and Raziq.

US officials and NATO’s Resolute Support mission in Afghanistan were adamant that Miller had not been a target.

Several days later another Taliban-claimed assault killed a NATO soldier and and wounded two others — all from the Czech Republic — in the western province of Herat.

The attacks came amid a flurry of US-led diplomatic activity to convince the Taliban, Afghanistan’s largest militant group, to negotiate an end to the 17-year war.

Earlier this month, newly appointed US peace envoy Zalmay Khalilzad met with Taliban representatives in Qatar.

Less than two weeks later a top Taliban commander held in Pakistani detention for more than eight years was freed.

A senior Taliban leader told AFP the group had requested the release of Abdul Ghani Baradar and several others at the meeting with Khalilzad.

The post Seven killed in suicide attack near Kabul prison appeared first on ARYNEWS.



from ARYNEWS https://ift.tt/2RrSBZy
via IFTTT

Saying 'I've been used,' Kanye West distances himself from politics

Three weeks after a bizarre White House meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump, rapper Kanye West said on Tuesday he was distancing himself from politics.


from Reuters: Entertainment News https://ift.tt/2PBhuVu
via IFTTT

TV star Kerry Washington returns to Broadway in 'American Son'

Actress Kerry Washington, best known for her Emmy-nominated role over seven seasons on television drama "Scandal," returns to the Broadway stage this month in the new play "American Son."


from Reuters: Entertainment News https://ift.tt/2Q5elKk
via IFTTT

Los Angeles prosecutors decline to charge Stallone after sexual assault allegation

The Los Angeles County District Attorney's office has decided there is not enough evidence to prosecute "Rocky" actor Sylvester Stallone over allegations that he sexually assaulted a woman in 1987 and 1990, according to an agency document released on Tuesday.


from Reuters: Entertainment News https://ift.tt/2ENlP3s
via IFTTT

Disney tells a different 'Nutcracker' story on the big screen

"The Nutcracker," the beloved holiday season tale of toys that come to life, moves from the ballet stage to the big screen in an action-adventure story being released by the Walt Disney Co on Friday.


from Reuters: Entertainment News https://ift.tt/2O9WZKF
via IFTTT

In Japanese film 'Sea', guilt leads to revenge after sexual assault

A young man suffers years of anguish after failing to stop the rape of a school girl in "Sea", a gritty film of revenge and redemption by new Japanese director Kensei Takahashi.


from Reuters: Entertainment News https://ift.tt/2yOzUZh
via IFTTT

Afghan military helicopter crash kills all 25 on board

An Afghan army helicopter carrying senior officials crashed Wednesday, killing all 25 on board, according to an official.

from FOX News https://ift.tt/2yI3RKd
via IFTTT

Secret no more: Israel's outreach to Gulf Arab states

It was a scene unthinkable just weeks ago: an Israeli Cabinet minister, tears of joy filling her eyes, proudly singing her country's national anthem at a sports event in the heart of the Arab world.

from FOX News https://ift.tt/2Q9loBY
via IFTTT

AP Interview: Okinawa leader wants Americans to stop US base

The bicultural, newly elected governor of the southern Japanese island of Okinawa plans to visit the United States with a message to the American people: Stop building a disputed military base and build peace instead.

from FOX News https://ift.tt/2qi95b2
via IFTTT

City council candidate facing heat for allegedly dropping off mom, 86, to panhandle

An Orange County resident running for Irvine City Council has come under increased attention for his decade-long routine of dropping off his wheelchair-bound mother to panhandle.

from FOX News https://ift.tt/2PyvoYd
via IFTTT

Massachusetts lieutenant placed on leave over alleged ‘let’s meet violence with violence’ post: report

A Massachusetts police lieutenant was placed on paid administrative leave Tuesday for allegedly writing a series of articles in a law enforcement publication last week that seemed to encourage violence against “social justice warriors,” and derided cop killers as “animals that can only be ‘rehabilitated’ when they are put down,” boston.com reported.

from FOX News https://ift.tt/2CRWL8T
via IFTTT

Pakistan acquits Christian woman facing death for blasphemy

Pakistan's top court on Wednesday acquitted a Christian woman who was sentenced to death in 2010 on blasphemy charges, a landmark ruling that could ignite mass protests or violence by hard-line Islamists.

from FOX News https://ift.tt/2OgKb55
via IFTTT

Muslim-led groups raise enough money to cover funeral expenses for synagogue victims

A pair of Muslim-American groups has raised over $200,000 as of Tuesday night to help the victims in the shooting at a synagogue in Pittsburgh over the weekend, where a gunman opened fire and killed 11 people in the bloodiest anti-Semitic attack in U.S. history.

from FOX News https://ift.tt/2AB0Oot
via IFTTT

'The Voice' contestant Cody Ray Raymond leaves show, citing 'personal matters'

Fan favorite soul-rock singer Cody Ray Raymond abruptly left NBC’s “The Voice” singing competition this week.

from FOX News https://ift.tt/2zg2BgR
via IFTTT

Royals Harry and Meghan name kiwi birds 'gift' and 'sneeze'

Prince Harry and wife Meghan examined the navel, nostrils and whiskers on New Zealand's flightless kiwi bird and got to name two tiny chicks on the final day of their 16-day tour of the South Pacific.

from FOX News https://ift.tt/2Rw0o8P
via IFTTT

Dems blast Trump's 'birthright citizenship' plan, call it midterm election gimmick

In seeking to limit the legality of birthright citizenship ahead of the midterm elections, some Democrats are accusing President Trump of pandering to his base just days before the midterm elections.

from FOX News https://ift.tt/2zckZau
via IFTTT

Dodge Super Charger has a 1,000-hp case of Hellephantitis - Roadshow

This SEMA concept is powered by a 426-cubic-inch, supercharged V8 that's brawnier than the one in the Dodge Demon.

from CNET News https://ift.tt/2Jsbdpf
via IFTTT

2019 VW Jetta gets a trio of SEMA customs - Roadshow

Volkswagen showcases three different tuner takes on the 2019 Jetta sedan.

from CNET News https://ift.tt/2AB68Iq
via IFTTT

The 2019 Volkswagen Jetta gets made over for SEMA - Roadshow

VW handed three new Jettas to three builders to see what they could do with the entry-level sedan's sedate looks.

from CNET News https://ift.tt/2ENnlTc
via IFTTT

iPad Pro, MacBook Air, Mac Mini: You'll spend $1,900, $2,600, $4,200 if you max out Apple's specs - CNET

Top-of-the-line models add up fast.

from CNET News https://ift.tt/2EVmFv7
via IFTTT

Facebook sees stagnating sales and user growth - CNET

We've become used to seeing faster growth.

from CNET News https://ift.tt/2P2N6Ur
via IFTTT

Twitter debuts #Midterms2018, but trolls already discovered it - CNET

Tweets with hashtags like #BuildTheWall, #JobsNotMobs and #BlueWave are being surfaced.

from CNET News https://ift.tt/2CPXSGi
via IFTTT

Red Dead Redemption 2 had the highest grossing opening weekend of any game ever - CNET

Rockstar says the game raked in over $725 million in worldwide sales.

from CNET News https://ift.tt/2yLlvwJ
via IFTTT

T-Mobile leads in wireless growth again as it awaits Sprint acquisition - CNET

The Un-carrier doesn't want to rock the boat right now.

from CNET News https://ift.tt/2CQnu5L
via IFTTT

iPad Pro 2018 vs. iPad Pro 2017 vs. iPad 2018: Here's what's new and different - CNET

Confused? Here's how the specs play out.

from CNET News https://ift.tt/2P3NLVK
via IFTTT

Tesla accused of misrepresenting Autopilot in Florida crash lawsuit - Roadshow

The plaintiff's Model S had Autopilot enabled when it hit a stationary car on the highway.

from CNET News https://ift.tt/2zpaW27
via IFTTT

iPad Pro 2018 vs. Pixel Slate vs. Surface Pro 6: All specs, compared - CNET

Apple gears up to do battle with Microsoft and Google in the premium tablet market.

from CNET News https://ift.tt/2PvdSEe
via IFTTT

NASA solar probe sets two wild space records on way to sun - CNET

The Parker Solar Probe is going where no spacecraft has gone before. And it's going there fast.

from CNET News https://ift.tt/2CRf3Y0
via IFTTT

NASA says Kepler Space Telescope is out of fuel and out of time - CNET

The space telescope, which revealed a universe full of planets that might be similar to our own, is now retired.

from CNET News https://ift.tt/2yLlicV
via IFTTT

Halloween resurrects spooky visions of a ghost hunt at my home - CNET

A CNET writer revisits a paranormal inspection of her old house that turned up eerie audio and video. Did the findings temper her skepticism?

from CNET News https://ift.tt/2PAoy4m
via IFTTT

Weird Halloween horror films and TV shows you may have overlooked - CNET

Teen cannibals, ghosts, killer cults, evil puppets and tentacled sea creatures. Watch these unusual scary films and TV shows, streaming now, to get your spook on.

from CNET News https://ift.tt/2JtzGe2
via IFTTT

Apple iPad Pro, Macbook Air get some iPhone X magic, but challenges remain - CNET

Apple gives its iPads and its MacBook Air a makeover in a bid to get you to take them more seriously.

from CNET News https://ift.tt/2OVZ9mp
via IFTTT

Afghan army helicopter crashes, killing 25 on board

Afghanistan helicopter crash

KABUL: An Afghan army helicopter crashed in southwestern Afghanistan on Wednesday, killing 25 crew and passengers, provincial officials said.

Naser Mehri, a spokesman for the governor of western Farah province, said two army helicopters were on their way to neighboring Herat province when one lost control.

He said the aircraft crashed in bad weather. A Taliban spokesman said the militants shot it down.

More to follow….

The post Afghan army helicopter crashes, killing 25 on board appeared first on ARYNEWS.



from ARYNEWS https://ift.tt/2SvCMSR
via IFTTT

Lawyers exercise right of vote to elect SCBA’s new body

ISLAMABAD: The members of Supreme Court Bar are exercising their right to vote on Wednesday (today) in the ongoing election of the Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA)  to elect its new body for 2018-19.

A total of 3,047 voters across the country cast their votes to elect the 22-member body.

Ali Ahmed Kurd, the candidate fielded by Asma Jahangir Group contesting for the SCBA’s President slot against Haimd Khan group’s candidate, Amanullah Kanrani.

Kurd, who was a leader of the lawyers’ movement for restoration of judges in 2007, is being supported by the former SCBA President, Yasin Azad, while Amanullah Kanrani, who had resigned as advocate general of Balochistan in March this year, is getting support from Law Minister Dr Farogh Nasim and Attorney General of Pakistan Anwar Mansoor Khan, who have been affiliated with Hamid Khan group.

As per policy of SCBA, the president of the bar is elected from different province each year as per rotation policy. The slot of the president has been reserved for Balochistan this year .

For the slot of the secretary general of SCBA, the contest is between Shamim-ur-Rehman Malik and Azmatullah Chaudhry, while Ali Ahmed Rana and Mahmood A Sheikh are running for the position of finance secretary .

The process of polling started at 9:00 am today to continue till 5:00 pm without any break. Polling stations have been set up in Karachi, Quetta, Peshawar, Abbottabad, Lahore, Multan, Bahawalpur, Islamabad and other cities.

The SCBA body consists of the president, four vice-presidents (one from each province), secretary, additional secretary, finance secretary and 14 members elected from across Pakistan (at least two from each province).

The post Lawyers exercise right of vote to elect SCBA’s new body appeared first on ARYNEWS.



from ARYNEWS https://ift.tt/2Qfgkf2
via IFTTT

US calls for Yemen ceasefire, Mattis urges for peace talks within ‘next 30 days’

Assad

WASHINGTON: The United States called Tuesday for a ceasefire and peace talks in Yemen, as the Saudi-led military coalition sent more than 10,000 new troops toward a vital rebel-held port city ahead of a new assault.

Pentagon chief Jim Mattis said the US had been watching the conflict “for long enough,” adding that Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), which are in a US-backed coalition fighting Houthi rebels, are ready for talks.

“We have got to move toward a peace effort here, and we can’t say we are going to do it sometime in the future,” Mattis said at the US Institute of Peace in Washington.

“We need to be doing this in the next 30 days.”

He said the US is calling for all warring parties to meet with United Nations special envoy Martin Griffiths in Sweden in November and “come to a solution”.

US-Saudi ties have cooled in recent weeks after the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi, a prominent critic of the conservative kingdom, that has also tarnished the image of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

Saudi Arabia and its allies intervened in the conflict between embattled Yemeni President Abdrabbuh Mansur Hadi, whose government is recognised by the UN, and the Houthis in 2015.

Nearly 10,000 people have since been killed and the country now stands at the brink of famine, with more than 22 million Yemenis — three-quarters of the population — in need of humanitarian assistance.

The pro-government coalition deployed its reinforcements to the Red Sea coast ahead of a new offensive on Hodeida “within days,” a military official told AFP earlier.

He said they would also “secure areas liberated” from the Iran-linked Houthi rebels, and that forces from Sudan, part of the coalition, had moved into “secure” areas around the city.

Houthi rebels have for the past 10 days been stationing fighters on rooftops of buildings in Hodeida city, government military officials told AFP.

The adjacent port is the entry point for more than 70 percent of imports to the impoverished country.

Peace is ‘the only way’

The US has faced fierce international criticism for its role in supporting the Saudi-led coalition, especially after a series of strikes killed scores of civilians.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo called for an end to all coalition air strikes in Yemen’s populated areas.

“The time is now for the cessation of hostilities, including missile and UAV (drone) strikes from Houthi-controlled areas into the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates,” Pompeo said in a statement.

“Subsequently, coalition air strikes must cease in all populated areas in Yemen.”

Mattis said US support is based primarily on teaching the Saudi air force to improve targeting and to not drop bombs when there is any doubt about what they might hit.

“Our goal right now is to achieve a level of capability by those forces fighting against the Houthis that they are not killing innocent people,” he said.

Mattis said the ceasefire should be based on a pullback of Houthi rebels from the border and a ceasefire, and the parties must come together to end the war.

“That will permit the special envoy Martin Griffiths… to get them together in Sweden and end this war. That is the only way we are going to really solve this,” he added.

Last month, UN-led peace talks failed to take off after Houthi rebels refused to fly to Geneva over what they said was the UN’s failure to guarantee a safe return to the capital Sanaa, which the group has controlled since 2014.

Pompeo said the peace talks would aim to “implement confidence-building measures to address the underlying issues of the conflict, the demilitarisation of borders and the concentration of all large weapons under international observation.”

“A cessation of hostilities and vigorous resumption of a political track will help ease the humanitarian crisis as well,” he added.

“It is time to end this conflict, replace conflict with compromise and allow the Yemeni people to heal through peace and reconstruction.”

 

The post US calls for Yemen ceasefire, Mattis urges for peace talks within ‘next 30 days’ appeared first on ARYNEWS.



from ARYNEWS https://ift.tt/2yI2I5n
via IFTTT

Malala Yousafzai to get Harvard award for education activism

Malala Yousafzai

LONDON: After a number of accolades and recognition for promoting girls education, Nobel Prize Winner, Malala Yousafzai, is set to be honoured by Harvard University for the same cause.

Harvard’s Kennedy School says Yousafzai will be awarded the 2018 Gleitsman Award at a Dec. 6 ceremony.

Yousafzai became the youngest person to win the Nobel Peace Prize in 2014 when she was recognized for her global work supporting schooling for all children.

Malala Yousafzai, will speak at a special event in Edinburgh in December this year.

According to reports, Malala Yousafzai, the youngest ever Nobel Peace Prize winner, will speak at the Social Bite event to thank those taking part in this year’s Sleep in the Park event in December.

Malala elected ‘social secretary’ at Oxford College

Malala Yousafzai, has been living in the UK since October 2012. She was shifted from Pakistan to a hospital in Birmingham after she had sustained a bullet in her head in a targeted attack by militants in Swat. She was on her way home in a school van with other girls after an exam when the TTP men opened fire on them. Two other girls also sustained gunshot wounds.

Five years ago, Malala Yousafzai and her father Ziauddin co-founded the Malala Fund to bring awareness to the social and economic impact of girls’ education worldwide.

On December 10, 2014, Yousafzai received Nobel Peace Prize jointly with Indian children’s rights and education advocate Kailash Satyarthi.

In March this year, Malala returned to Pakistan for the first time after attack and visited her hometown Swat under tight security.

The post Malala Yousafzai to get Harvard award for education activism appeared first on ARYNEWS.



from ARYNEWS https://ift.tt/2OZ4ucK
via IFTTT

SC summons Fawad over IG Islamabad transfer ‘taunt’

Fawad Chaudhry

ISLAMABAD: The Supreme Court on Wednesday summoned Minister for Information and Broadcasting Fawad Chaudhry to explain his position with regard to his recent statement on the transfer of the capital city police chief Jan Muhammad.  

A three-judge bench, headed by Chief Justice of Pakistan Mian Saqib Nisar, was hearing a suo motu case pertaining to removal of the Inspector General of Police Islamabad.

Taking exception to the statement of the federal minister, the chief justice asked him to appear at 11:50am to explain as to “who did he taunt” when he questioned the purpose of holding elections in the country if the elected prime minister couldn’t even suspend an IGP.

Speaking to media outside Parliament House a day earlier, Fawad said the IGs were answerable to the prime minister and chief minister. “If the government is to be run by bureaucrats, then there might be no need for elections as a few bureaucrats might be appointed to run the government.”

Defending the IGP Islamabad’s transfer, he said the police officer was transferred owing to complaints about widespread use of drugs in the capital’s schools and collages and bribery in police stations and check points.

On Monday, the top court suspended a notification regarding removal of IGP Islamabad Jan Muhammad when it was informed that he was removed on the directives of Prime Minister Imran Khan.

The bench expressed extreme displeasure over removal of the IG Islamabad, saying the way he was sent packing is pathetic.

Attorney General Anwar Mansoor informed that the IGP was removed on the verbal directives of the prime minister.

On Oct 27, the grade-20 officer of the Police Services of Pakistan (PSP) was removed and directed to report to the Establishment Division, according to a notification issued by the division.

The post SC summons Fawad over IG Islamabad transfer ‘taunt’ appeared first on ARYNEWS.



from ARYNEWS https://ift.tt/2CQYX0m
via IFTTT

Medical board examines Shehbaz in sub-jail

Shehbaz Sharif

ISLAMABAD: Incarcerated Opposition leader in National Assembly Shehbaz Sharif underwent medical examination on Wednesday at his residence in Minister’s Enclave which was declared a sub-jail by the National Accountability Bureau.

A three-member medical board of polyclinic doctors thoroughly examined the former chief minister and conducted several clinical tests.

Consultant physician Doctor Asif Irfan is heading the medical board which comprises associate cardiac physician Doctor Hamid Iqbal and Doctor Imtiaz Ahmed.

The medical board was formed on the request of the National Accountability Bureau.

On October 29, an accountability court extended the physical remand of Shehbaz Sharif until Nov 7 in Ashiana-e-Iqbal Housing scandal.

Arrest of Shehbaz Sharif

The National Accountability Bureau on Oct 5 arrested Shehbaz Sharif inside its Lahore office where he was summoned to record his statement in connection with the Punjab Saaf Pani Company case.

A combined investigation team of the country’s top anti-graft watchdog quizzed him for an hour over his alleged role in awarding contract to his “favourite firm” in violation of laws in the Ashiana-i-Iqbal housing project.

The Bureau later issued a statement, declaring that former Punjab chief minister Shehbaz Sharif has been arrested in the scam.

Shahbaz’s blue-eyed officers, Lahore Development Authority former director general Ahad Cheema and Fawad Hasan Fawad, are already in NAB custody in the Ashiana Housing case.

 

The post Medical board examines Shehbaz in sub-jail appeared first on ARYNEWS.



from ARYNEWS https://ift.tt/2Q9i3CW
via IFTTT

‘PM’s China visit to focus on acquisition of technology for economic self-reliance’

Imran Khan China

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Imran Khan has said focus of his upcoming visit to China would be on acquisition of technology to make Pakistan self reliant economically. He said this during a meeting with Members of Punjab Assembly in Lahore.

Imran Khan described China as the most important friend of Pakistan. He said the major issue his government had to face after coming to power was the current account deficit.

Prime Minister said Saudi Arabia extended unconditional financial assistance to Pakistan.

He said now with a system of punishment and reward in place, performance of all the ministers will be evaluated and those not performing well will be replaced.

He said Pakistan Citizens Portal has been launched to check corruption.

The prime minister questioned, with reference to the PML-N’s demand that how a person facing charges of corruption could become the Chairman of Public Accounts Committee. He said the government’s priority is to improve governance and catch the big thieves without any disturbance to the poor. He said with focus on health and education, the PTI government is aiming to turn Pakistan into a welfare state.

Members of the provincial assembly expressed their full confidence in the leadership of Prime Minister Imran Khan and Chief Minister Usman Buzdar.

The members also presented various suggestions to the prime minister for improving governance in different areas.

Meanwhile, Adviser to Prime Minister on Commerce, Investment, and Industries Abdul Razak Dawood has said the upcoming visit of Prime Minister Imran Khan to China is aimed at further expanding the scope of China Pakistan Economic Corridor .

He said this while addressing a ceremony held to promote business promotion between Federation of Pakistan Chamber of Commerce and Industry and All Pakistan Chinese Enterprises Association in Islamabad.

The post ‘PM’s China visit to focus on acquisition of technology for economic self-reliance’ appeared first on ARYNEWS.



from ARYNEWS https://ift.tt/2Dcd41t
via IFTTT

Three more infants fall prey to chronic malnutrition in Thar

MITHI: Chronic malnutrition continues to take lives in drought-stricken district of Thar, as recent death of three more infants rises the number of fatalities up to 536 during this year so far.

Situation in Thar despite relief measures by Sindh government to address food shortage in the region, fails to improve, as three more infants died in Mithi’s civil hospital.

Chairman Sindh’s ruling Pakistan People’s Party, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has stressed the need to address malnutrition in the area. This he stated while meeting party MPA from the area, Arbab Lutfullah, who met Bilawal to brief him about current situation of Thar.

Last week, former President and Co Chairman Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) Asif Ali Zardari directed the elected representatives of Tharparkar to submit a report on the situation in the drought-stricken district.

The former president was briefed by chief minister’s special assistant on human rights Dr Khatu Mal on the Thar situation.

“The government will resolve the Thar crisis on a priority basis,”  said Mr Zardari adding that he will soon visit the drought-hit areas.

Asif Zardari said that the people of Thar will not be left alone in this difficult time and directed the provincial government to ensure all humanly possible efforts to provide relief.

Dr Khatu Mal was of the opinion that Tharparkar will continue to reel under drought-like situation until canal water is made available to the region.

Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Mian Saqib Nisar recently heard a case related to the drought in Tharparkar at the apex court’s Karachi registry.

He issued directives for the authorities concerned to take substantial steps to  improve miserable situation in Thar.

CJP Nisar was informed that distribution of wheat is ongoing in the region and special nutrition package is also being provided to address the issue of malnutrition.

Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) during the hearing said he will visit Thar himself to inspect the situation in the area, where chronic malnutrition continuing to add to the misery of the people living in drought-hit area.

The post Three more infants fall prey to chronic malnutrition in Thar appeared first on ARYNEWS.



from ARYNEWS https://ift.tt/2PtT7c6
via IFTTT

Seven killed in suicide attack near Kabul prison

Kabul attack

KABUL: A suicide bomber targeting a bus carrying employees of Afghanistan’s biggest prison killed at least seven people on Wednesday, officials said, in the latest militant attack in the war-torn country.

Another five were wounded in the blast near the facility in Kabul, which police spokesman Basir Mujahid said had hit a vehicle that staff of Pul-e-Charkhi prison were travelling in.

The attacker was on foot, interior ministry spokesman Najib Danish said. He struck as the bus was entering the jail in the east of the Afghan capital.

There was no immediate claim of responsibility for the explosion, but the Islamic State group (IS) has claimed most suicide attacks in Kabul in recent months.

The attack comes days after a suicide bomber blew himself up near the entrance of Afghanistan’s Independent Election Commission in Kabul, killing at least one person and wounding six.

A wave of election-related violence has killed or wounded hundreds across the country in recent months as the Taliban and IS step up attacks on Afghan security forces and government workers.

Afghanistan’s long-delayed parliamentary election, which was held over three days this month, was marred by chaos and deadly attacks.

Two days before voting began on October 20, a Taliban-claimed shooting killed a powerful police chief in the southern province of Kandahar.

General Abdul Raziq was among three people killed in the brazen insider attack on a high-level security meeting in the provincial capital that was attended by General Scott Miller, the top US and NATO commander in Afghanistan.

Miller escaped unhurt, but US Brigadier General Jeffrey Smiley was among 13 people wounded in the shooting, which the Taliban said had targeted Miller and Raziq.

US officials and NATO’s Resolute Support mission in Afghanistan were adamant that Miller had not been a target.

Several days later another Taliban-claimed assault killed a NATO soldier and and wounded two others — all from the Czech Republic — in the western province of Herat.

The attacks came amid a flurry of US-led diplomatic activity to convince the Taliban, Afghanistan’s largest militant group, to negotiate an end to the 17-year war.

Earlier this month, newly appointed US peace envoy Zalmay Khalilzad met with Taliban representatives in Qatar.

Less than two weeks later a top Taliban commander held in Pakistani detention for more than eight years was freed.

A senior Taliban leader told AFP the group had requested the release of Abdul Ghani Baradar and several others at the meeting with Khalilzad.

The post Seven killed in suicide attack near Kabul prison appeared first on ARYNEWS.



from ARYNEWS https://ift.tt/2RrSBZy
via IFTTT

UN Commission should set up to probe rights abuses in Kashmir: Lodhi

Maleeha Lodhi

NEW YORK: Maleeha Lodhi reiterated the call on the United Nations (UN) to establish a Commission of inquiry to investigate the grave human rights violations in occupied Jammu and Kashmir.

The call was renewed by Pakistan’s ambassador to the UN, Maleeha Lodhi while speaking in a debate on Self Determination in the Third Committee of the UN’s 193-member General Assembly.

The report issued on Kashmir by the UN High Commissioner of Human Rights in June 2018 had made a recommendation for such an inquiry.

“We endorse the report’s recommendation that a UN Inquiry Commission be constituted to investigate and redress the violations of human rights of the Kashmiri people”, the Pakistani envoy said during the debate.

Ambassador Lodhi said at the UN forum that the aspirations of the Kashmiri people to exercise their right to self-determination would have been fulfilled decades ago, had India not brutally suppressed their legitimate struggle.

She said that the right of self-determination was promised to the people of Jammu and Kashmir by UN Security Council as well as by the governments of India and Pakistan. But instead, India had unleashed a reign of terror to crush the will of the Kashmiri people.

Highlighting the gross violations of human rights committed by Indian occupying forces ambassador Lodhi said that independent human rights observers had repeatedly documented these atrocities. Most significant among them, she said, was the recent report by UN High Commissioner for Human Rights issued earlier this year.

Ambassador Lodhi reaffirmed Pakistan’s continued support for the just struggle of people of Kashmir. “Jammu and Kashmir will remain on the UN agenda until the Kashmiri people are allowed to exercise their will, according to agreed methods prescribed by the Security Council”, she added.

“As a fundamental norm of international law”, she said, “the right to self-determination is not only enshrined in the UN Charter, but is also an overarching principle in all other landmark documents”.

“This right also gives meaning to the very first phrase of the UN Charter – we the peoples”, Ambassador Lodhi said, arguing that denying this right to people living under foreign occupation “would be contrary to the very essence and spirit of the UN and all that it stands for”.

This is the second time this week that the Pakistani envoy has raised the Jammu and Kashmir dispute in the important Committee of General Assembly dealing with human rights.

In her statement, Ambassador Lodhi also expressed concern at the rise of racism, xenophobia and intolerance. Such divisive forces, she said, posed a grave threat to international peace and security.

“Pakistan is committed to build bridges of understanding and to challenge and resist those who seek to erect walls of bigotry and hatred, which threaten to reverse the march of civilization”, she concluded.

 

The post UN Commission should set up to probe rights abuses in Kashmir: Lodhi appeared first on ARYNEWS.



from ARYNEWS https://ift.tt/2qlI6vo
via IFTTT

Tuesday, 30 October 2018

Retail analyst Claire Bailey says Topshop customers 'may switch loyalty'

Retail analyst Claire Bailey says claims about Topshop owner could hit sales if customers switch loyalties

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J
from USA BULK NEWS

Driverless cars: Who should die in a crash?

A global study suggests people prefer to save young over elderly people.

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J
from USA BULK NEWS

China 'creates two billionaires a week'

China is the leading country for entrepreneurs to create wealth, says a global survey of billionaires.

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J
from USA BULK NEWS

Can we predict when and where a crime will take place?

Predictive policing using data analytics is gaining acceptance among police forces, but at what cost?

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J
from USA BULK NEWS

The boss who tried to kill his business

Peter Reinhardt was initially unimpressed with the idea behind customer data tech firm Segment.

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J
from USA BULK NEWS

Budget 2018: 'Everything is just stretched to its limit'

People in Scarborough are concerned about hospitals and schools ahead of this year's Budget.

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J
from USA BULK NEWS

How the world is grappling with China's rising power

The US-China trade war is the most prominent example of countries pushing back against China's growing influence.

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J
from USA BULK NEWS

Helping kids cope with the fear of medical treatment

Hi-tech gadgets are helping sick children express their feelings and soothe their fears.

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J
from USA BULK NEWS

Brexit and the booming British strawberry

British berry growers have expanded rapidly on the back of cheap EU labour but the good times could soon be over.

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J
from USA BULK NEWS

On Social Media, No Answers for Hate


By SHEERA FRENKEL, MIKE ISAAC and KATE CONGER from NYT Technology
Learn about SmartPhones
via

China’s King of Internet Fluff Wants to Conquer the World


By RAYMOND ZHONG from NYT Technology
Learn about SmartPhones
via

Waiting for JIT report probing fake bank accounts, says CJP

ISLAMABAD: “Waiting for the report of Joint Investigation Team (JIT)  probing fake bank accounts, ” remarked Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Mian Saqib Nisar here on Tuesday, while hearing a case with regard to fake bank accounts.

Bench headed by the CJP resumed hearing of the case. At the outset of the hearing, the top judge remarked ” the OMNI group has to pay debt of Rs 11.59 billion to the National Bank and Sindh Bank, which are running in loss.”

“Nimar Majeed’ son of Anwar Majeed was not arrested on our [Supreme Court] orders,” said chief justice during hearing of the case.

However, advocate Munir Bhatti informed the bench that negotiations are underway with the banks and pleaded the court to give time of 10 days, on which CJP  later adjourned the hearing till Monday.

Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) on October 27, arrested Nimar Majeed, son of Chairman OMNI Group, Anwar Majeed outside Supreme Court Karachi Registry in a matter pertaining to missing of sugar worth Rs 11 billions from the mills owned by the group.

A bench of the apex court headed by CJP heard the case at its Karachi registry. ”Where was FIA and Police, when sugar worth billions of rupees went missing from the sugar mills of OMNI group,” the CJP asked during the hearing.

During hearing of the case, DG FIA informed the honorable bench that “Nine sugar mills are operating under the umbrella of OMNI group and nine cases of missing sugar have been registered.”

DG FIA on query of the CJP about offices of the OMNI Group, contended that the group have its office in Karachi and some other offices in rural areas of Sindh.

The top court had constituted the JIT to probe the money-laundering scam involving former president Asif Ali Zardari, his sister Faryal Talpur and OMNI group head, Anwar Majeed.

Six members of the JIT, headed by Additional Director General (Economic Crime Wing) FIA Headquarters Ahsan Sadiq, include Commissioner-IR (Corporate Zone) Regional Tax Officer Imran Latif Minhas, Joint Director BID-I State Bank of Pakistan Majid Hussain, Director National Accountability Bureau Noman Aslam, Muhammad Afzal, Director (Specialized Companies Division) Securities & Exchange Commission of Pakistan and Brigadier Shahid Parvez of Inter-Services Intelligence.

The post Waiting for JIT report probing fake bank accounts, says CJP appeared first on ARYNEWS.



from ARYNEWS https://ift.tt/2qqdU2h
via IFTTT

Nawaz to record statement in Al-Azizia case on next hearing

Nawaz Sharif

ISLAMABAD: An accountability court here on Tuesday ruled that it would record statement of former prime minister Nawaz Sharif in the Al-Azizia reference on next hearing. 

National Accountability Bureau (NAB) prosecutor Wasiq Malik informed Judge Muhammad Arshad Malik that the depositions of all prosecution witnesses have completed in the case.

Meanwhile, the accountability court resumed hearing into the Flagship reference against the ex-PM.

Nawaz Sharif was in attendance in court as his lawyer Khawaja Haris continued cross-examination of star prosecution witness Wajid Zia.

A total of 22 witnesses recorded their testimonies before the court in the Al-Azizia corruption reference.

NAB had filed three references against the Sharif family in pursuance of the July 28 order that disqualified Nawaz Sharif from the office of prime minister.

A reference pertaining to the Sharif family’s Avenfield properties in London has been decided while Al-Azizia and Flagship Investment references are pending disposal.

On July 6, an accountability court had sentenced Nawaz to a total of eleven years in prison and imposed a £8 million fine in the corruption reference. His daughter Maryam was sentenced to eight years with a £2 million fine while Safdar was given a one-year sentence.

The post Nawaz to record statement in Al-Azizia case on next hearing appeared first on ARYNEWS.



from ARYNEWS https://ift.tt/2PsPV0k
via IFTTT

Four members of a family shot dead in Charsadda

CHARSADDA: Four members of a family were shot dead in Ghamarzai area of Charsadda on Tuesday (today).

According to police, the killer, who is said to be a member of the family, opened indiscriminate fire at his mother, sister-in-law, niece and a cousin, resulting their death on the spot.

The accused managed to flee away from the scene. The cause of the incident could not be ascertained. Police conducting raids to put the killer behind the bars. The accused had also killed his wife earlier”, local police officials said.

On October 23, in another incident of multiple killings, four people including a woman were shot dead in  Diamer in Gilgit Baltistan region over a family dispute, while a child sustained bullet injuries.

A similar incident of killings was reported in Sargodha in June, in which five members of a family including a woman and children were shot dead by unidentified armed men.

Unidentified assailants stormed a house in  Chak 11 of Sargodha’s Bhalwal tehsil and opened incriminate fire over members of the family.

As a result, a man, his wife and their two sons and a daughter died of fatal bullet wounds on the spot.

After being informed about the incident, police and rescue teams reached the crime scene immediately and shifted the deceased to a nearby medical facility.

The deceased couple was identified as Muhammad Tufail, 50, his wife Majeeda Bibi 40, while the children killed in the attack aged between 16 and 20 years.

The post Four members of a family shot dead in Charsadda appeared first on ARYNEWS.



from ARYNEWS https://ift.tt/2zcDSu4
via IFTTT

Imran China Foreign Ministry

Imran Khan China

BEIJING: Prime Minister Imran Khan’s upcoming visit to China would provide an opportunity for leaders of the two countries to open a new chapter of development of bilateral relations under new circumstances, said China’s Foreign Ministry.

Mr Khan will visit China from Nov 2 on the invitation of his Chinese counterpart Li Keqiang and President Xi Jinping.

According to Chinese foreign ministry’s spokesperson Lu Kang, Mr. Khan will also attend China International Import Expo (CIIE) being held in Shanghai.

During the visit, PM Khan would hold talks with President Xi and Premier Li, the spokesperson said.

He said the two sides would have an in-depth exchange of views on bilateral ties and cooperation and issues of common interests.

Pakistan will participate in the CIIE as the guest of honour. Mr Khan will attend the opening ceremony of the CIIE and deliver a keynote speech.

The Chinese official expressed the confidence that relations between China and Pakistan would not be affected by a change in international and the domestic situations.

According to officials, the two sides would also formally sign papers to include Social Sector Joint Working Group of the CPEC. The officials from the two governments were currently in the process of sharing final papers.

CPEC – How it all came into being

In April 2015, China had announced mega development projects in Pakistan worth $46-billion under CPEC project, which focuses on road building and energy infrastructure to end chronic power shortages in Pakistan and to link China’s landlocked north-west with the deep-water port of Gwadar on the Arabian Sea.

The plan, which would eclipse U.S. spending in Pakistan over the last decade or so, is part of China’s aim to forge “Silk Road” land and sea ties to markets in the Middle East and Europe.

The two sides had also agreed to strengthen cooperation in civil nuclear energy, space and maritime technology, counter-terrorism and defense.

Meanwhile China will also expand industrial capacity cooperation in diverse sectors including chemical, pharmaceutical, engineering, agro, iron and steel. The two countries will also increase exploration and development of resources.

Under CPEC, a number of new economic zones will be created along the corridor.

The post Imran China Foreign Ministry appeared first on ARYNEWS.



from ARYNEWS https://ift.tt/2Rm7I6B
via IFTTT

Nawaz to meet Shehbaz at Parliament House today

Nawaz Sharif Shehbaz

ISLAMABAD: Former prime minister Nawaz Sharif will visit Parliament House today to meet his younger brother and Leader of the Opposition Shehbaz Sharif. 

As per details, the PML-N supremo will meet his brother at the latter’s Parliament House chamber.

PML-N spokesperson Marriyam Aurangzeb said the ex-PM will meet the opposition leader to discuss the current political situation and future course of action.

They will also discuss an invitation by Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman to attend a multiparty conference he has been planning to devise a joint strategy against the ruling PTI.

A day earlier, Shehbaz, who is in the custody of NAB in connection with Ashiana housing scam since Oct 5, was brought to Islamabad by NAB to attend the National Assembly session.

Speaker Asad Qaiser had issued production order of the PML-N president.

The opposition leader’s residence at the Minister’s Enclave has been declared a sub-jail to incarcerate Shehbaz, according to a notification issued by the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) on Monday.

“In exercise of powers conferred under section 24(f) of the National Accountability Ordinance (NAO) 1999, I, Justice Javed Iqbal, Chairman, National Accountability Bureau (NAB) hereby notify the 26, Minister Enclave, Islamabad as sub-jail for the purpose of detention of accused under the NAO, 1999,” the notification read.

The post Nawaz to meet Shehbaz at Parliament House today appeared first on ARYNEWS.



from ARYNEWS https://ift.tt/2yElomM
via IFTTT

Govt refuses to give PAC chairmanship to Shehbaz Sharif

shehbaz

ISLAMABAD: The parliamentary meeting of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) decided against giving the chairman of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) to Opposition Leader in National Assembly Shehbaz Sharif.

The meeting, chaired by Prime Minister Imran Khan, chose not to appoint president of Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz (PML-N) for the coveted position of heading the PAC.

The PTI parliamentary leaders concluded that a non-partisan person would be selected to chair the committee after consultation with the Prime Minister while other parties will also be taken on-board regarding the decision.

The parliamentary party meeting of the ruling party began at the parliament house just before the National Assembly session.

The government has met severe criticism from the opposition parties for refusing to give the position to Shehbaz Sharif.

The PML-N had earlier threatened to withdraw all its members from the other committees in case it fails to gain chairmanship of the PAC.

Nevertheless, previously, the government representatives had clarified it multiple times that opposition parties had no right to ask for the chairmanship of the PAC.

It is pertinent to mention here that in previous political setups of Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) and Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), a parliamentary tradition was set by allowing the opposition to hold the top position of the PAC.

 

The post Govt refuses to give PAC chairmanship to Shehbaz Sharif appeared first on ARYNEWS.



from ARYNEWS https://ift.tt/2SrGnS5
via IFTTT

‘Water woes’: Minister demands action against ranker mafia in Karachi

tanker mafia karachi

ISLAMABAD: Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs, Ali Muhammad Khan, has said the provincial government should take action against the tanker mafia in Karachi, adding water distribution system in Karachi needed to be improved.

About the K4 water project in Karachi, he said about Rs 12 billion had been released to the Sindh government.

He informed the National Assembly that the government had prepared a project of Rs two billion for providing clean drinking water to the residents of the federal capital.

The minister expressed these views while responding to a calling attention notice regarding non-availability of potable water in all parts of the country particularly Islamabad and Karachi.
He said the federal government had formed a task force under the Sindh governor to address water scarcity and other important issues in Karachi.

He said the federal government wanted to resolve this issue with the cooperation of the provincial government.

The minister said water supply was a devolved subject under the 18th amendment; however, the federal government was very much concerned over it and would extend full support to the provinces in that regard.

Taking floor on the subject, Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi said water was a national issue and a national approach should be adopted to address it.

He said the federal government and the provincial governments needed to collaborate and take steps to ensure that every citizen of the country had clean drinking water.

Minister for Planning, Development and Reform Makhdoom Khusro Bakhtiar said that K-4 water project had great importance for Karachi.  He said water issue required attention of all the political parties.

He said Prime Minister Imran Khan recently chaired a meeting of National Water Council and stressed the need for integrated approach for conservation, storage, management and efficient utilization of the available water resources.

He said National Water Council would serve as an effective platform to develop consensus among the stakeholders on all issues pertaining to water resource management.

No significant attention was paid to water-related issues in the past. He stressed the need for chalking out a comprehensive roadmap in consultation with provinces and other stakeholders, for the implementation of National Water Policy (NWP).

The post ‘Water woes’: Minister demands action against ranker mafia in Karachi appeared first on ARYNEWS.



from ARYNEWS https://ift.tt/2AzvztU
via IFTTT

SC seeks report on disposal of hospital waste in KPK

KPK hospital waste

ISLAMABAD: The Supreme Court on Tuesday directed the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK) government to come up with a report, spelling out measures to tackle the issue of proper disposal of hospital waste in the province. 

Chief Justice Mian Saqib Nisar, who headed a bench of the apex court, gave this direction while hearing a case with regard to the disposal of hospital waste.

He asked whether or not the province where the PTI has been ruling for a second consecutive term had incinerators at public sector hospitals. He directed the KPK health minister to swear an affidavit about resolution of the issue.

He remarked that hospital waste is causing diseases.

Earlier this month, the apex court directed the Punjab government to allocate specific sites for disposal of hazardous waste of public hospitals in the province.

The chief justice had directed the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) to conduct an inquiry into a contract awarded to a private company for burning of waste of public hospitals in the city.

The court was informed that a private company was awarded a contract for disposal and burning of hospital waste.

It expressed concern over transparency of the award of the contract and decided to get it investigated.

The post SC seeks report on disposal of hospital waste in KPK appeared first on ARYNEWS.



from ARYNEWS https://ift.tt/2CMOyTk
via IFTTT