Pakistan's military trials under scrutiny by Amnesty International chief May 20, 2024 at 10:47PM

Amnesty International chief criticizes Pakistan's use of military courts to try civilians, including 102 accused for attacks on army installations during riots following Imran Khan's arrest. Urges government to uphold international obligations, citing violations of human rights and constitutional guarantees. Expresses alarm over the ban on X (formerly Twitter) in Pakistan, highlighting concerns about shrinking freedom of expression and restrictions on accessing VPNs. Raises issue of shrinking space for free speech in Pakistan, particularly affecting journalists. Notes that criticism of state institutions is not a crime under international law.

Funeral ceremonies begin for President Raisi; investigators probe chopper crash May 20, 2024 at 09:29PM

Funeral ceremonies begin in Iran for late President Ebrahim Raisi, who died in a helicopter crash. Investigations into the crash have started. Funeral procession held in Tabriz, with funeral scheduled in Mashhad at Imam Reza shrine. Bodies to be transferred to Qom, ceremonies planned in Tehran's Grand Mosallah Mosque. Mohammad Mokhber appointed as acting President.