Pakistan's former prime minister Abbasi says general elections could be further delayed September 30, 2023 at 06:14AM

Amidst an acrimonious political environment and clouds hanging over the upcoming general elections in Pakistan, a former prime minister on Saturday predicted further delay in polls due to the extreme winter.The Election Commission of Pakistan has announced that it would hold polls in the last week of January after the completion of the delimitation process and fulfilling other legal requirements prior to elections.

Shutdown imminent as House, Senate hold split courses on US government funding September 30, 2023 at 05:35AM

The U.S. House of Representatives is set to vote on a stopgap funding bill to avoid a government shutdown, according to Republican Speaker Kevin McCarthy. The bill, which would extend funding for 45 days, requires Democratic votes and may face opposition from hardliners in both parties. However, time is running short, as the bill may not make it through the Democratic-majority Senate and be signed into law by President Joe Biden before funding expires.

China says US is the true 'empire of lies' September 30, 2023 at 03:07AM

The United States is the true "empire of lies", the Chinese foreign ministry said on Saturday, lashing out at a US State Department report that accused Beijing of ploughing billions of dollars annually into information manipulation efforts.China is manipulating global media through censorship, data harvesting and covert purchases of foreign news outlets, the US State Department said in the report on Thursday.

Italy and Libya resume commercial flights after 10-year hiatus, officials say September 30, 2023 at 01:00AM

Italy and war-torn Libya on Saturday resumed commercial flights for the first time in a decade, authorities in the Libyan capital said. Flight MT522, operated by the Libyan carrier Medsky Airways, departed Mitiga International Airport in Tripoli for Rome's Leonardo da Vinci-Fiumicino Airport, according to Libyan airport authorities.

Israeli soldiers kill a Palestinian militant in the West Bank, saying he threw explosives September 30, 2023 at 12:35AM

Israeli soldiers shot and killed a Palestinian man in the West Bank, Palestinian health officials said, the latest death in a monthslong surge of violence in the occupied territory. The Israeli military said that soldiers late Friday shot two Palestinians who hurled Molotov cocktails at an army post near the West Bank city of Ramallah, the seat of the Palestinian authority.

Maldivians vote in a runoff presidential election that will decide whether India or China holds sway September 29, 2023 at 11:45PM

Maldivians were voting Saturday in a runoff presidential election that has turned into a virtual referendum on which regional power - India or China - will have the biggest influence in the Indian Ocean archipelago nation. Neither main opposition candidate Mohamed Muiz nor incumbent President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih got more than 50 per cent in the first round of voting earlier in September.

Crackdown on Afghan residents in Pakistan triggers alarm September 29, 2023 at 03:47AM

A crackdown on Afghan residents in Pakistan has caused disruption and uncertainty in the community. Many Afghans, including a young bride, have been affected by the arrests. The crackdown specifically targets those lacking legal status, with authorities citing escalating crime rates and inadequate immigration regulation as reasons. Hundreds of Afghans have been apprehended, with accusations of indiscriminate arrests and police extortion.

US-Saudi defence pact tied to Israel deal, Palestinian demands put aside September 29, 2023 at 02:46AM

Saudi Arabia is determined to secure a military pact with the United States that would require the US to defend the kingdom in return for opening ties with Israel. The pact would not require congressional backing and could resemble treaties the US has with Asian states or the US agreement with Bahrain.

No current talks with Taliban, Afghanistan's Massoud says, promising guerrilla warfare September 29, 2023 at 12:48AM

Ahmad Massoud, the exiled leader of the National Resistance Front of Afghanistan (NRF), stated that there are no negotiations with the Taliban for a peace settlement. He vowed to increase guerrilla warfare to force the Taliban to the negotiating table. Massoud emphasized that the Taliban would only gain legitimacy through elections, which are currently unlikely.

As China censors homegrown feminism, a feminist scholar from Japan is on its bestseller lists September 28, 2023 at 06:50PM

Chizuko Ueno, a 75-year-old Japanese feminist scholar, has become a celebrity in China despite the government's promotion of conservative values. Ueno's popularity reflects a surge of interest in women's rights in the country. Her books have sold over half a million copies in China, and she is seen as a role model for women who choose not to marry or have children.

Migrants are being raped at Mexico border as they await entry to US September 29, 2023 at 12:09AM

Criminal investigations into the rape of foreign nationals, excluding Americans, were the highest on record in the two cities this year, according to state data from 2014 to 2023 obtained by Reuters through freedom of information requests. The US State Department considers Tamaulipas, where the two cities are located, to be the most dangerous state along the US-Mexico border.

Millions travel across China as national holiday kicks off September 29, 2023 at 12:10AM

Chinese travellers are flocking to transport networks as the eight-day national holiday begins, marking the first October break since the end of strict Covid-19 policies. Pre-booked international trips are 20 times higher than last year, while domestic trips are over four times higher, according to China's largest online travel provider, Trip.com.

Migrants cross into Texas, undeterred by razor wire or new asylum rules September 28, 2023 at 10:59PM

For the past several days large groups of migrants, mostly from Venezuela, have been wading across the Rio Grande river near a railroad bridge in Eagle Pass, Texas, undeterred by coils of razor wire laid along the banks.

Zelenskyy says Ukraine joining NATO just a 'matter of time' September 28, 2023 at 01:16AM

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Thursday that his country would eventually become a member of NATO as he welcomed the chief of the Western security bloc, Jens Stoltenberg, to Kyiv. "(It is) a matter of time before Ukraine becomes a de jure member of the alliance. We are doing everything to bring this time closer," Zelenskyy said at a joint press conference with the NATO chief.

Russia to hike defence spending by almost 70% in 2024: Ministry September 28, 2023 at 12:37AM

Israel's supreme court hears challenge to law that makes it harder to remove Netanyahu from office September 28, 2023 at 12:23AM

Israel's supreme court on Thursday was hearing a challenge to a law that makes it harder to remove a sitting prime minister, which critics say is designed to protect prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu who has been working to reshape the justice system while he is on trial for alleged corruption. The hearing is part of several pivotal court challenges against a proposed package of legislation and government steps meant to alter the country's justice system.

Germany probing possible war crime in Ukraine September 27, 2023 at 11:55PM

German authorities are investigating a possible war crime committed in the Ukrainian city of Hostomel, a spokeswoman for federal prosecutors told on Wednesday.

Russia launches big wave of drone strikes on Ukraine September 27, 2023 at 11:20PM

Russia carried out a big wave of air strikes on three Ukrainian regions early on Thursday in which Ukrainian officials said some attack drones had hit their targets but did not say what was damaged.

Flooded homes, streets as another storm hits battered central Greece September 27, 2023 at 10:53PM

Torrential rain in central Greece has caused severe flooding in the city of Volos, just three weeks after Storm Daniel killed 16 people in the region. Over 250 people have been evacuated, and the fire brigade has received 1,200 calls for help. Power outages have left 80% of the city in darkness, and all vehicles have been stopped from going on the roads.

Ronald Reagan famously spoke of the 'ash heap of history.' So do several GOP candidates today September 27, 2023 at 07:17AM

As Republican presidential candidates gather at Ronald Reagan's presidential library for a debate, they are expected to pay homage to the "Great Communicator" and use his rhetoric in their campaigns. Former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley has promised to send China to the "ash heap of history," while Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis wants to consign certain policies there.

Soaring Donald Trump snubs second Republican debate to meet auto workers September 27, 2023 at 06:49AM

The US Justice Department sued eBay on Wednesday for allegedly selling restricted pesticide products and devices that defeat motor vehicle emission controls. According to the complaint, eBay has sold more than 343,000 devices which defeat motor vehicle pollution emission controls and at least 23,000 unregistered, misbranded or restricted-use pesticide products.

Biggest quake in 40 years shakes Italy's volcanic Campi Flegrei September 27, 2023 at 03:35AM

A 4.2-magnitude earthquake struck Italy's Campi Flegrei region, the biggest tremor in 40 years. Although the quake startled residents, it caused no injuries or damage. The Campi Flegrei is a flat volcano that has recently shown increased activity. Experts believe that there may be more intense tremors in the future. The area is home to half a million people, and the last eruption occurred in 1538. The recent spike in activity is likely caused by gas bubbling up, making an eruption less likely.

Over 100 masked teens ransack, loot Philadelphia stores; several arrested September 27, 2023 at 01:04AM

Over a hundred masked teenagers caused chaos in stores in Philadelphia, stealing merchandise and fleeing. At least 15 to 20 teenagers have been arrested, and the police have recovered two firearms. The looting took place in renowned stores such as the Apple Store, Lululemon, and Footlocker. The incident followed a peaceful protest unrelated to the looting.

Star of TV series 'The Man From U.N.C.L.E.' dies at 90 September 26, 2023 at 09:03AM

Actor David McCallum, who became a teen heartthrob in the hit series "The Man From U.N.C.L.E." in the 1960s and was the eccentric medical examiner in the popular "NCIS" 40 years later, has died. He was 90. McCallum died Monday of natural causes surrounded by family at New York Presbyterian Hospital, CBS said in a statement.

Biden makes history by joining striking US car workers September 26, 2023 at 07:32AM

Imran Khan shifted to Adiala Jail from Attock prison September 26, 2023 at 07:15AM

Imran Khan, the former prime minister of Pakistan, has been shifted to the Adiala Jail in Rawalpindi from the Attock prison. This move comes after the Islamabad High Court ordered his relocation to the high-security jail. Khan, who has been in detention since August, was escorted to the Adiala Jail in an 18-vehicle convoy. The jail superintendent confirmed his arrival and stated that he would be provided with facilities according to the jail manual. The next hearing in Khan's case is scheduled for October 10.

Prosecutors say Canada fashion mogul used 'status' to assault women September 26, 2023 at 07:21AM

Disgraced multi-millionaire Peter Nygard went on trial in Toronto on Tuesday accused of using his power and status as a wealthy fashion designer to sexually assault five young women in allegations spanning decades.Nygard, the 82-year-old founder of one of Canada's largest clothing brands, Nygard International, has pleaded not guilty to five charges of sexual assault and one of forcible confinement in this trial -- the first of several he faces in Canada and the United States.

Russia hits Ukrainian port and grain facilities in air strikes September 26, 2023 at 06:47AM

Russia launched an overnight drone strike on the Ukrainian port infrastructure and grain storage facilities in Izmail, causing damage to buildings, storage facilities, and vehicles. Two people were injured in the attack. This is the latest strike on Ukrainian grain and port facilities since July when Russia exited a grain deal.

7 candidates qualify for second Republican presidential debate September 26, 2023 at 12:29AM

The second Republican presidential debate will feature seven candidates who have qualified based on polling support and fundraising criteria. Former President Donald Trump, who skipped the first debate, will also be absent as he holds events in Michigan. Candidates such as Ron DeSantis, Nikki Haley, and Tim Scott are hoping to make an impact and gain more prominence in the race.

Senior US officials travel to Armenia as Karabakh's Armenians start to leave September 25, 2023 at 03:47AM

Senior Biden administration officials arrived in Armenia on Monday, a day after ethnic Armenians in Nagorno-Karabakh began fleeing following Azerbaijan's defeat of the breakaway region's fighters in a conflict dating from the Soviet era.

Understanding the impending US government shutdown: How will it affect Americans September 25, 2023 at 12:27AM

The US is facing the possibility of a government shutdown if lawmakers fail to pass crucial spending bills by the September 30 deadline. The dispute between Democrats and Republicans could impact government services and lead to temporary closures in various sectors. The impasse poses political risks for President Biden and could jeopardize the financial stability of workers in federally funded entities.

Philippines vows removal of Chinese barriers at disputed reef September 25, 2023 at 12:22AM

The Philippines is determined to remove floating barriers allegedly installed by the Chinese coast guard at a disputed reef in the South China Sea. The barriers prevent Filipino fishermen from accessing the traditional fishing ground near Scarborough Shoal, which was seized by China in 2012. Philippine officials argue that the installation of barriers violates the fishermen's rights and the 2016 Arbitral ruling.

Russian air strike damages Odesa port infrastructure, grain facilities: Kyiv September 24, 2023 at 11:42PM

Ukrainian officials have reported that a Russian air strike on the southern region of Odesa caused significant damage to port infrastructure and destroyed some grain storage facilities. No deaths were reported in the attack, but one person was killed in a separate strike in Kherson region. Russia's defence ministry also reported Ukrainian attacks overnight, and Ukrainian air defences destroyed drones and cruise missiles.

Hong Kong crypto firm hit by $200 million hack September 24, 2023 at 11:54PM

Suella Braverman orders review into UK police firearms regulations September 24, 2023 at 11:06PM

UK Home Secretary Suella Braverman has launched a review into the legal protections for officers on firearms duties after a revolt within Scotland Yard ranks following a murder charge against a Metropolitan Police officer who had discharged his gun while on duty.

Hold fire against ex-generals, army signals to Nawaz Sharif ahead of return September 24, 2023 at 08:40AM

Pakistan's military has reportedly warned former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif to stop accusing ex-generals and retired judges of conspiring to remove him from office in 2017. Sharif has recently criticized former army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa, former spymaster Lt Gen Faiz Hameed, and former judges Saqib Nisar and Asif Saeed Khosa. The military's displeasure has been conveyed to Sharif through his brother, Shehbaz.

The Biden administration is poised to allow Israeli citizens to travel to the US without a US visa September 24, 2023 at 07:20AM

The Biden administration is poised to admit Israel this week into an exclusive club that will allow its citizens to travel to the United States without a US visa despite Washington's ongoing concerns about the Israeli government's treatment of Palestinian Americans.

Nawaz Sharif to be treated as per law on return, says Pakistan's caretaker information minister September 24, 2023 at 07:03AM

Pakistan's former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, who is set to return to the country next month after a four-year exile, will be treated according to the law, said caretaker Information Minister Murtaza Solangi. Solangi emphasized that Nawaz had obtained permission from the court and the former government to go abroad after his jail sentence. The minister also stated that the Election Commission of Pakistan would be responsible for conducting fair and transparent elections, with delimitation of constituencies to be completed by November 30.

Prachanda asks China to have preferential treatment to increase Nepalese exports September 24, 2023 at 06:03AM

Nepal Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal 'Prachanda' on Sunday said that his country wants to enhance the economic partnership with China for mutual benefits. "As a close neighbour, it is but natural for Nepal to desire for enhanced economic partnership with China for mutual benefits," Prachanda said while addressing a meeting with Chinese Business Enterprises in Beijing.

Leading Egyptian opposition politician targeted with spyware, researchers find September 24, 2023 at 04:30AM

A leading Egyptian opposition politician was targeted with spyware multiple times after announcing a presidential bid - including with malware that automatically infects smartphones, security researchers have found. They say Egyptian authorities were likely behind the attempted hacks.

Italian PM admits she hoped to do 'better' on migration September 23, 2023 at 11:59PM

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has admitted she had hoped to do "better" on controlling irregular migration, which has surged since her far-right party won historic elections a year ago. Meloni's post-fascist Brothers of Italy party was elected largely on a promise to reduce mass migration into Italy.

Armenia PM signals foreign policy shift away from Russia September 23, 2023 at 11:36PM

Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan on Sunday took a veiled swipe at long-standing ally Russia, calling his country's current foreign security systems "ineffective". "The systems of external security in which Armenia is involved are ineffective when it comes to the protection of our security and Armenia's national interests," Pashinyan said days after Azerbaijan's resounding victory in the disputed Nagorno-Karabakh region.

1 Kosovo police officer killed and 1 wounded in an attack in the north, raising tensions with Serbia September 23, 2023 at 10:53PM

Kosovo's prime minister on Sunday said one police officer was killed and another wounded in an attack he blamed on support from neighbouring Serbia, raising the prospect of increased tensions between the two former war foes at a delicate moment in their European Union-facilitated dialogue to normalise ties.

Lebanese army says it exchanged tear gas, smoke bomb fire with Israel September 23, 2023 at 03:17AM

Lebanon's army said it fired tear gas at Israeli forces over the border on Saturday in response to smoke bombs fired at its troops, though Israel said Lebanon started the confrontation.

Gunmen kidnap dozens in Nigerian university: Sources September 23, 2023 at 02:54AM

Gunmen have kidnapped more than 30 people, including at least 24 female students, in a raid in and around a university in northwest Nigeria's Zamfara state, residents said Saturday. In February 2021, bandits raided a girl's boarding school in the town of Jangebe in Zamfara state, kidnapping more than 300 students.

'They hate our hardware': Ukraine says it's 'unleashing hell' on Russians near key city September 23, 2023 at 01:37AM

Ukraine said that its use of Western-supplied heavy weaponry in the intense battle at the outskirts of Bakhmut, seized by Russia in May, is significantly impacting the enemy's positions.

France arrests, charges Rwanda ex-official over 1994 genocide: source September 23, 2023 at 12:03AM

France this week arrested and charged a former top Rwandan regional official over the country's 1994 genocide, a source close to the case said on Saturday. Pierre Kayondo, who was prefect of the Kibuye region and also a former MP, was arrested on Tuesday and charged with complicity in genocide and crimes against humanity.

A Ukrainian missile strikes the headquarters of Russia's navy in Crimea September 22, 2023 at 10:34PM

Ukraine launched a missile attack on the headquarters of Russia's Black Sea Fleet in Crimea, leaving one serviceman missing and causing damage to the building. Crimea, which was annexed by Russia in 2014, has been a target for Ukraine in its ongoing conflict with Russia.

US: Woman shoots at 5 bystanders after being denied entry into Denver bar September 22, 2023 at 04:39AM

A woman opened fire outside a Denver bar after being denied entry, injuring five people. The suspect, who had a fake ID, accidentally hit bystanders while targeting security personnel. The incident caused panic in downtown Denver. The woman fled the scene and police are currently searching for her. Fortunately, the injured individuals are expected to recover.

Ex-FBI agent tied to Russian oligarch to plead guilty to lying about payment September 22, 2023 at 12:10AM

Former FBI agent Charles McGonigal is expected to plead guilty to charges of concealing $225,000 in cash payments from a former Albanian intelligence officer who became a source in an FBI investigation. McGonigal, who previously pleaded guilty in a separate case related to his work for Russian oligarch Oleg Deripaska, faces a nine-count indictment in Washington.