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 An improvised explosive device (IED) went off in the Dasht area of Balochistan’s Turbat district on Wednesday, claiming the lives of at least two people and injuring four others. According to the police, the remote-controlled explosion occurred when the victims were travelling inside a vehicle. Meanwhile, the bodies and the wounded were shifted to a hospital. Those killed in the blast have been identified as Zaman and Umer Zahoor, whereas the injured include Naeem, Javed, Ameen and Waheed. The incident comes amid a surge in terrorist incidents in the country, which has affected Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa the most. Earlier this month, two people were killed in a bomb explosion behind Levies station in Killa Abdullah. However, Assistant Commissioner Shehak Baloch said that the deceased were carrying a bomb to attack the station but before reaching their target the bomb exploded and both of them were killed. The month of November was also marred by violence in the province with two soldiers being martyred in an IED blast during an operation in Harnai. The martyred soldiers were identified as Major Muhammad Haseeb and Havildar Noor Ahmed. Before that at least 27 people, including security personnel, were killed and 62 others were wounded in a suicide attack at the Quetta railway station. It is pertinent to mention that the increase in terrorist attacks coincides with the return of the Taliban government in neighbouring Afghanistan. The third quarter of 2024 (July-September) witnessed a sharp uptick in fatalities in terrorist violence and counter-terrorism campaigns with a 90% surge in violence, according to a report issued by the Centre for Research and Security Studies (CRSS). A total of 722 people were killed, including civilians, security personnel, and outlaws, while 615 others were wounded in as many as 328 incidents recorded during the period under review. Nearly 97% of these fatalities occurred in KP and Balochistan — marking the highest percentage in a decade, and over 92% of these incidents of terror attacks and security forces’ operations were recorded in the same provinces. The total fatalities from three quarters of this year have now surpassed the total fatalities recorded for the entire 2023; the number of fatalities rose to at least 1,534 in the first three quarters compared to 1,523 in 2023. Source: https://www.thenews.com.pk/latest/1265285-turbat-blast-kills-at-least-two-injures-four

Members of the Syrian police have been killed in an “ambush” by forces loyal to the ousted President Bashar al-Assad in Tartous governorate in the latest security challenge for the new administration that came to power a fortnight ago. Syria’s new Interior Minister Mohammed Abdul Rahman said on Thursday that “remnants” of the Assad government in Tartous had killed 14 police members and wounded 10 others, vowing to crack down on “anyone who dares to undermine Syria’s security or endanger the lives of its citizens”. The attack came as protests took place several cities after a video showing vandalising of an Alawite shrine in the city of Aleppo circulated online on Wednesday. Police had imposed curfews in Homs, Latakia, Jableh and Tartous until 8am (05:00 GMT). Al Jazeera could not confirm if the curfew has been lifted. The interior ministry said on its official Telegram account that the video, which showed armed men walking inside the shrine and posing near human bodies, dated back to the rebel offensive on Aleppo in late November. The ministry said that the violence was carried out by unknown groups, adding whoever was circulating the video now appeared to be seeking to incite sectarian strife. State media reported that residents of Homs said that demonstrations in the city were led by members of the minority Alawite and Shia Muslim religious communities. Some residents said the demonstrations were linked to pressure and violence in recent days aimed at members of the Alawite minority, a sect long seen as loyal to al-Assad, who was toppled by opposition fighters led by the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) group earlier this month. Al Jazeera’s Hashem Ahelbarra, reporting from Damascus, described the situation in Syria as extremely delicate now, with flashpoints over the last 48 hours particularly in the Alawite heartland of Latakia and Tartous, as well as Homs and Aleppo. Hashem said the new administration has brought huge reinforcements to security forces to try to reduce tension in the areas. “Yesterday, late at night, there were high-level meetings of the new administration about how to move forward, and one of the options is a crackdown on what they describe to be remnants of the old regime, members of the Fourth Division, [which] was the elite presidential guard loyal to Maher al-Assad, brother of the former president,” he said. “But the new administration is little bit concerned about the potential of a bloody confrontation.” Assad, who took over as president after his father’s death in 2000, fled to Russia after opposition fighters captured Damascus on December 8, ending more than five decades of Baath Party rule. The country’s new leaders have repeatedly promised to protect minority religious groups, who fear for their rights under the new administration. A number of people are believed to be killed and wounded in a separate attack by the former regime forces in the coastal region, according to the interior ministry. Source: https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2024/12/26/syrian-security-personnel-killed-in-ambush-by-former-regime-forces

Fighting: Society: Regional security: Moldova’s President Maia Sandu – sworn in for a second term on Tuesday – praised Moldovan voters’ pro-Europe choice, “despite the pressures”, after Russia was accused of interfering in last month’s election in the former Soviet republic that borders Ukraine.Here are the key developments on the 1,035th day of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. The United States government’s Global Engagement Center (GEC), which tracks foreign disinformation, has terminated its operations, the State Department said, after Congress failed to extend its funding. In June, James Rubin, the coordinator for the GEC, announced the launch of a multinational group based in Warsaw to counter Russian disinformation on the war in Ukraine. Zelenskyy has blasted Slovakian Prime Minister Robert Fico over his reluctance to end his country’s dependency on Russian gas, calling it a “big security issue” for Europe. Source : https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2024/12/25/russia-ukraine-war-list-of-key-events-day-1035

The nation is observing the 148th birth anniversary of Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah today with profound enthusiasm and patriotic fervour. The day began with special prayers at mosques across the country for the progress, prosperity, and unity of Pakistan. The day dawned with a 21-gun salute in all provincial capitals, while the national flag has been hoisted at major government and private buildings, reflecting reverence for the Father of the Nation. An elegant change of guard ceremony was also held at the Mazar-e-Quaid mausoleum in Karachi today. Change of guard at Quaid’s mausoleumPlay Video Special ceremonies and activities are being organised nationwide, including seminars, conferences, debates, cultural events, and exhibitions. These events aim to shed light on the life, struggles, and achievements of Quaid-i-Azam, while also promoting his vision for Pakistan as a progressive, inclusive, and democratic state. Schools and colleges will hold debates, art competitions, and essay writing contests focusing on his leadership and principles of unity, faith, and discipline. Television and radio channels will air special programmes and documentaries throughout the day, highlighting Quaid-i-Azam’s pivotal role in the creation of Pakistan. Newspapers will publish special supplements, recounting his enduring legacy and unparalleled contribution to the nation. Paying tribute to the nation’s founder, President Asif Ali Zardari called for upholding the values of social justice, economic equity, and the rule of law and the need to invest in the education of our youth, ensuring they are equipped with the knowledge and skills to lead Pakistan into a brighter future. “On this day, we honour the contributions of the Father of the Nation, who changed the course of history through a political struggle. Quaid-i-Azam’s vision, determination, and unwavering resolve led to the creation of an independent homeland for Muslims of the subcontinent,” read the press release issued by the President’s Secretariat Press Wing. President Zardari further urged the renewal of the pledge to embody his ideals. Meanwhile, in his message, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif lauded the Quaid, terming him a leader of “rare caliber who believed deeply in unity, justice and equality”. “Today, as we celebrate the 148th birth anniversary of our founding father, Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, we are reminded of his extraordinary vision, unwavering courage, and unparalleled determination. He achieved what many thought impossible and gifted us our homeland — Pakistan,” said the PM. Noting that Quaid’s vision for Pakistan was one of inclusivity, unity, and prosperity, the premier remarked: “As we commemorate this special day, let us draw strength from Quaid-i-Azam’s legacy and reaffirm our commitment to the values he stood for. It is our duty as Pakistanis to work tirelessly for the progress, prosperity, and unity of our nation.” Furthermore, as part of activities to mark Quaid Day, an exhibition was held at the Information Service Academy (ISA) on Tuesday, featuring rare photographs and portraits of the founder of Pakistan, aiming to educate the younger generation about his monumental struggle and sacrifices for a separate homeland. A documentary showcasing Quaid-i-Azam’s life and achievements was also screened during the exhibition. The Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) has also organised a ceremony to celebrate Christmas and the birthday of Quaid at its headquarters on Friday. The Pakistan National Council of the Arts (PNCA) has planned to organise an on-the-spot Painting and Drawing Competition on Wednesday to mark Quaid-i-Azam Day, providing a platform for young artists to pay tribute to the Father of the Nation through their creativity. Lok Virsa will host a series of events to celebrate the 148th birth anniversary of the founder of Pakistan, Quaid-i-Azam on Wednesday. The celebrations will include an exhibition of artisans-at-work, showcasing traditional craftsmanship while a cake-cutting ceremony will also be held to mark the occasion, followed by a tribute to Quaid and a Milli Naghmas Show at the same time, featuring patriotic songs. Additionally, documentaries on Quaid-i-Azam will be screened throughout the day, offering insights into his life and vision. People will also participate in the Quaid Day Safari Cycling Rally which will be held from Safari Club to Mini Gold Club today. On this momentous occasion, citizens from all walks of life are urged to reflect on Quaid-i-Azam’s timeless message and work collectively to overcome challenges, ensuring that Pakistan stays on the path envisioned by its great leader. The younger generation, in particular, is encouraged to make Jinnah their role model and embody his ideals of hard work, integrity, and patriotism to build a brighter future for the nation. This day serves as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made during the struggle for independence and reinforces the need to uphold Quaid-i-Azam’s principles to steer the country toward progress, harmony, and peace. Jinnah, a distinguished barrister and politician, led the All-India Muslim League from 1913 until Pakistan’s independence on August 14, 1947. Known for his unwavering determination, integrity, and commitment to justice, Jinnah became Pakistan’s first governor-general, serving until his death on September 11, 1948. His leadership not only secured a homeland for the Muslims of the subcontinent but also laid the foundation for a nation built on equality, freedom, and tolerance. His vision of a united and prosperous Pakistan continues to serve as a guiding light for the country. Source: https://www.thenews.com.pk/latest/1265131-nation-commemorates-quaid-e-azams-148th-birth-anniversary-with-patriotic-fervour

Source:https://www.aljazeera.com/news/liveblog/2024/12/25/live-christians-in-gaza-pray-for-an-end-to-israels-death-and-destruction

Source: https://www.aljazeera.com/news/liveblog/2024/12/17/russia-ukraine-war-live-general-igor-kirillov-killed-in-moscow-bomb-blast

Pakistan’s Ambassador Aamar Aftab Qureshi says chances of survival of those missing are slim The death toll in the Greek boat tragedy has risen to five, all of them Pakistanis, whereas 35 are still missing after multiple boats capsized in Greek territorial waters on Saturday. Speaking at a press conference, Pakistan’s Ambassador to Greece Aamar Aftab Qureshi revealed that the boats, carrying more than 80 Pakistani nationals, also included minor passengers. “The rescue operation is underway. [However] prospects of survival of those missing are low,” said the diplomat while underscoring the dozens of Pakistanis — who were travelling illegally from Libya on multiple boats — remain missing. He also said that the ill-fated boats carrying Pakistani citizens were overloaded and capsized after their hulls cracked. Pakistan ambassador statement on Greece tragedyPlay Video The Foreign Office said that its Crisis Management Unit (CMU) had been activated to assist Pakistanis in Greece. Meanwhile, Pakistani nationals in Greece and their families are urged to contact the CMU via telephone at 051-9207887 or by email at cmu1@mofa.gov.pk. Families of the missing Pakistanis can reach the Embassy of Pakistan in Greece to provide details at +30-6943850188. Announcing that the embassy would bear the expenses for the transfer of bodies to Pakistan, Ambassador Qureshi expressed concern over children being sent abroad in such a manner. Urging the parents not to send their children on such dangerous journeys, he called for those involved in this heinous business to be brought to justice. It is pertinent to know that Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, on the directions of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Sunday, formed a committee led by the additional secretary of the Ministry of Interior to conduct an investigation into the incident. The body has been tasked with investigating and submitting its findings within five days. Furthermore, the security czar also directed the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) to launch nationwide operations against human smuggling networks. Victims identified Meanwhile, an investigation report submitted to Islamabad by the Pakistani embassy in Athens said that the death toll of Pakistani nationals jumped to five. The report stated that three boats — which capsized in Greek territorial waters — departed from Libya’s Tobruk. A total of 45 people were on board the first vessel, of which six were Pakistanis. Whereas, the second boat included five Pakistani citizens out of the total 47 passengers. Greek boat incident investigation reportPlay Video The third boat was carrying 83 people including 76 Pakistanis, three Bangladeshis, two Egyptians and two Sudanese nationals. A total of 39 people were rescued from the third vessel of which 36 were Pakistani citizens. The five bodies which have been recovered are of passengers travelling in the third boat with the deceased identified as Pakistanis. The four victims have been identified as Sufyan, Rehman Ali, Haji Ahmed and Abid. Whereas the fifth victim has not yet been identified. According to the report, the deceased hailed from Sialkot, Gujrat and Mandi Bahauddin. Furthermore, 39 people are still missing from the third vessel, of which 35 are Pakistanis. The report also noted that a Sudanese driver who was also among the rescued individuals, has been taken into custody. Meanwhile, rescued Pakistani nationals have been shifted to Malakasa refugee camp located at a distance of 40 kilometres from Athens. Survivors’ account Meanwhile, revealing harrowing details of the incident and perilous journey, Pakistani survivors of the boat incident — who are currently at a camp in Greece — have said that the vessel they were aboard neither had proper engine nor communication equipment such as a walkie-talkie and driver. Survivors reveal details of Greek boat incidentPlay Video Shedding light on the incident, the survivors also said they departed from Libya on December 11 after staying there for more than a month. The accident occurred on the night between Friday and Saturday when sea conditions were quite rough, they added. Decrying that they don’t even have clothes and shoes, the survivors have requested the authorities to help and provide assistance to them. FIA action Taking action in the aftermath of the fatal incident, the FIA Gujranwala on Tuesday registered a case and apprehended two facilitators involved in the accident. Out of the two suspects, one was arrested from Gujranwala, whereas the other was apprehended from Gujrat, the investigation agency said. Raids are being carried out to nab 18 human smugglers involved in the boat tragedy, the FIA added. The case registered by the FIA named smuggler Qamar-uz-Zaman alias Khurram Jajja who is currently residing in Libya. Jajja, along with his brother Usman and four other family members, operate the human smuggling ring, the FIA further said. Moreover, Shamrez, hailing from Kotli Azad Jammu and Kashmir, has also been named in the case. Source : https://www.thenews.com.pk/latest/1262510-fatalities-rise-to-five-35-pakistanis-remain-missing-in-greek-boat-tragedy

Source: https://www.aljazeera.com/news/liveblog/2024/12/17/live-israel-again-targets-kamal-adwan-hospital-as-gaza-toll-passes-45000

RSF ramps up attacks on North Darfur, as rights group accuses the paramilitaries of sexual violence in South Kordofan. Sudanese paramilitaries have attacked the city of el-Fasher killing at least 38 people, according to local activists, while international rights groups accuse the fighters of widespread sexual violence. The local resistance committee, a volunteer group coordinating aid in el-Fasher, said on Sunday that the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) targeted the centre of the capital of North Darfur state “with four high-explosive missiles”. The massacre followed an earlier drone attack on the city’s Saudi Hospital on Friday, which killed nine people and wounded 20, forcing doctors to halt operations. World Health Organization (WHO) chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus described attacks on healthcare facilities across Sudan as “deplorable” in a post on X on Saturday. The RSF and Sudan’s army have been locked in a power struggle since mid-April 2023, creating one of the worst humanitarian crises, with tens of thousands killed and more than 11 million displaced. Nearly all of Darfur is now controlled by the RSF, which has also taken over swaths of the South Kordofan region and central Sudan, while the army holds the north and east. ‘Epidemic of sexual violence’ On Monday, rights group Human Rights Watch (HRW) highlighted widespread sexual violence in the conflict, accusing the RSF and its allied groups fighting the army of “heinous” acts that could potentially constitute “war crimes”. HRW documented dozens of cases of sexual violence, including gang rape and sexual slavery, targeting women and girls aged between seven and 50 in South Kordofan state since September 2023. According to the report, many of the victims were gang-raped at their or their neighbours’ homes, often in front of families while some were abducted and held in conditions of enslavement. One survivor, a 35-year-old Nuba woman, described being gang-raped by six RSF fighters who stormed her family compound and killed her husband and son when they tried to intervene. “They kept raping me, all six of them,” she said. “This research highlights what we have been hearing for some time now about the magnitude of sexual violence in Sudan, with the RSF coming into homes and raping women and girls time and again,” said Belkis Wille, HRW’s associate crisis and conflict director. Another survivor, aged 18, recounted being taken with 17 others to a base where they joined 33 detained women and girls and were raped and beaten on a daily basis for three months. The UN’s humanitarian chief Tom Fletcher warned last month about an “epidemic of sexual violence” against women in Sudan, saying the world “must do better”. Source: https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2024/12/16/sudans-rsf-kills-at-least-38-in-drone-attack-on-city-of-el-fasher

400,000 polio workers across 143 districts will visit every household to administer polio drops to children, says official A week-long countrywide anti-polio campaign began on Monday (today) with the goal of vaccinating around 44 million children, while the number of poliovirus cases in Pakistan has mounted to 63 this year. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif administered drops to children in Islamabad as he announced the launching of the polio eradication campaign on Sunday. Addressing the launching ceremony, he expressed the commitment to eradicate the poliovirus from Pakistan with the help of provincial governments and international partners. Around 400,000 polio workers across 143 districts of the country will visit every household to inoculate children below five years, as per Prime Minister’s Focal Person on Polio Eradication Ayesha Raza Farooq. She requested the parents to open their doors and fully cooperate with the polio teams in this campaign. Kicking starting the immunisation drive in Sindh, the provincial Health Department said on Monday that the seven-day anti-polio campaign would last till December 22, during which around 16 million children would be administered anti-polio drops. The health department said 80,000 frontline workers would go door-to-door to vaccinate children, while 15,000 security personnel will accompany them for their protection. It said out of 63 polio cases in Pakistan this year, 17 were reported in Sindh. “Parents are urged to vaccinate their children against polio. Repeated polio vaccination strengthens children’s immunity,” it said. The health department also urged parents to contact helpline 1166, if any child missed vaccination. “Polio still exists in Pakistan and Afghanistan. Therefore, media, community leaders and religious scholars are requested to support the campaign,” it added. On the other hand, Bahawalpur district aims to complete its target of administering polio drops to more than 0.82 million children below five years in five days till December 20 with the help of 3,276 mobile teams, 195 fixed and 136 transit teams, District Health Authority official Dr Amir Bashir said. District Vehari deputy commissioner said they had set the target of administering polio drops to over 0.64 million children in five days with the help of 2,374 teams. Whereas, 609 teams will administer to more than 0.14 million kids the polio drops in North Waziristan and 2,023 police officials will provide security to this campaign, said the North Waziristan deputy commissioner. The Gujrat DC said teams comprising 5,169 officials will administer polio drops to over 0.51 million children in Gujrat. Launching the anti-polio drive yesterday, PM Shehbaz urged the parents to ensure vaccination of their children to protect them from the viral disease. He welcomed international partners including Bill Gates-founded the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, the World Health Organisation (WHO), and Saudi Arabia for assisting Pakistan in the war against polio. Poliovirus, a highly contagious viral disease predominantly affects children under five, particularly those with weak immunity or inadequate vaccination. The illness invades the nervous system and causes paralysis or even death. While there is no cure for polio, vaccination is the most effective way to protect children from this crippling disease. Pakistan is one of the two remaining polio-endemic countries in the world, along with Afghanistan, and the number of cases on a yearly basis had significantly dropped in the country, until the recent spike in cases. Country’s rigorous efforts towards polio eradication face significant challenges, particularly in areas where insecurity, misinformation, and parental refusals hinder vaccination campaigns. With over 60% of children affected by polio in 2024 having not received routine immunisation, health authorities established a high-level committee to improve coordination between the Polio Eradication Initiative (PEI) and the Expanded Programme on Immunisation (EPI). Balochistan remains the most affected province during the recent spike in the spread of disease with 26 cases reported so far this year.A week-long countrywide anti-polio campaign began on Monday (today) with the goal of vaccinating around 44 million children, while the number of poliovirus cases in Pakistan has mounted to 63 this year. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif administered drops to children in Islamabad as he announced the launching of the polio eradication campaign on Sunday. Addressing the launching ceremony, he expressed the commitment to eradicate the poliovirus from Pakistan with the help of provincial governments and international partners. Around 400,000 polio workers across 143 districts of the country will visit every household to inoculate children below five years, as per Prime Minister’s Focal Person on Polio Eradication Ayesha Raza Farooq. She requested the parents to open their doors and fully cooperate with the polio teams in this campaign. Kicking starting the immunisation drive in Sindh, the provincial Health Department said on Monday that the seven-day anti-polio campaign would last till December 22, during which around 16 million children would be administered anti-polio drops. The health department said 80,000 frontline workers would go door-to-door to vaccinate children, while 15,000 security personnel will accompany them for their protection. It said out of 63 polio cases in Pakistan this year, 17 were reported in Sindh. “Parents are urged to vaccinate their children against polio. Repeated polio vaccination strengthens children’s immunity,” it said. The health department also urged parents to contact helpline 1166, if any child missed vaccination. “Polio still exists in Pakistan and Afghanistan. Therefore, media, community leaders and religious scholars are requested to support the campaign,” it added. On the other hand, Bahawalpur district aims to complete its target of administering polio drops to more than 0.82 million children below five years in five days till December 20 with the help of 3,276 mobile teams, 195 fixed and 136 transit teams, District Health Authority official Dr Amir Bashir said. District Vehari deputy commissioner said they had set the target of administering polio drops to over 0.64 million children in five days with the help of 2,374 teams. Whereas, 609 teams will administer to more than 0.14 million kids the polio drops in North Waziristan and 2,023 police officials will provide security to this campaign, said the North Waziristan deputy commissioner. The Gujrat DC said teams comprising 5,169 officials will