Violence in Kabul is so extreme, citizens are carrying around 'in case I die' notes | Public Radio International:
Wednesday, 31 January 2018
Taliban 'threaten 70% of Afghanistan' BBC investigation finds
Taliban 'threaten 70% of Afghanistan' BBC investigation finds - BBC News:
The BBC's Auliya Atrafi travelled to Helmand Province, where the Taliban are most active.
The BBC's Auliya Atrafi travelled to Helmand Province, where the Taliban are most active.
Tuesday, 30 January 2018
China Builds Military Base in Afghanistan
China Builds Military Base in Afghanistan https://t.co/8igYiVnyre— Tao Dao Man (@TaoDaoMan) January 30, 2018
Dutch training mission in Afghanistan hit by security problems
Dutch training mission in Afghanistan hit by security problems - DutchNews.nl:
The number of soldiers who can leave their base to go and train their Afghan colleagues is limited because not all the security staff assigned to the Dutch contingent speak English, AD reported. Compounding the problem is a lack of panzer vehicles to transport them.
The number of soldiers who can leave their base to go and train their Afghan colleagues is limited because not all the security staff assigned to the Dutch contingent speak English, AD reported. Compounding the problem is a lack of panzer vehicles to transport them.
Drone Killings
The Trump administration's subservience to Saudi Arabia's military adventurism in Yemen has lead to 8x the drone assassination rate of Obama. Most killed are civilians. Obama, in turn, had 10x the drone kills of Bush. https://t.co/oBaUz6j6eS— Julian Assange ⌛ (@JulianAssange) January 29, 2018
As Afghanistan Situation Deteriorates, Pentagon Muzzles Watchdog
Pentagon Muzzles Afghanistan Watchdog as Situation Deteriorates - Bloomberg:
U.S. casualties doubled in the first 11 months of 2017 compared with the same periods in 2015 and 2016, according to military figures cited by Sopko. In 2017 data through Nov. 26, 11 U.S. military personnel were killed in Afghanistan, and 99 were wounded.
Monday, 29 January 2018
Sunday, 28 January 2018
$1Tn and Counting
Cost of 16yr NATO occupation exceeded $1trn but instead of bringing peace & prosperity, it reduced #Afghanistan to rubble (Op-Ed by @AndreVltchek) https://t.co/2Ri7VNAIJZ— RT (@RT_com) January 26, 2018
Some foreign organisations "reassessing their presence" in Afghanistan
Kabul mourns 100 dead after ambulance bomb - BBC News:
Witnesses say the area - also home to offices of the European Union, a hospital and a shopping zone known as Chicken Street - was crowded with people when the bomb exploded on Saturday at about 12:15 local time (08:45 GMT).
Nasrat Rahimi, deputy spokesperson for the Interior Ministry, said the attacker got through a security checkpoint after telling police he was taking a patient to nearby Jamhuriat hospital.He detonated the bomb at a second checkpoint, said Mr Rahimi.
The International Committee of the Red Cross said the use of an ambulance was "harrowing".
Witnesses say the area - also home to offices of the European Union, a hospital and a shopping zone known as Chicken Street - was crowded with people when the bomb exploded on Saturday at about 12:15 local time (08:45 GMT).
Nasrat Rahimi, deputy spokesperson for the Interior Ministry, said the attacker got through a security checkpoint after telling police he was taking a patient to nearby Jamhuriat hospital.He detonated the bomb at a second checkpoint, said Mr Rahimi.
The International Committee of the Red Cross said the use of an ambulance was "harrowing".
Saturday, 27 January 2018
Kabul Toll Reaches 95
Witnesses say the area - home to foreign embassies and the city's police headquarters - was crowded with people when the bomb exploded on Saturday at about 12:15 local time (08:45 GMT). Plumes of smoke were seen from around the city.
Officials said the death toll would probably continue to rise as casualties were brought to hospitals for medical attention. READ MORE
40 Dead in Kabul Blast
The explosion -- one of the biggest since a truck bomb ripped through the Afghan capital's diplomatic quarter on May 31 last year -- triggered chaotic scenes as terrified people fled the area where several high-profile organisations, including the European Union, have offices.
An AFP reporter saw "lots of dead and wounded" civilians in the nearby Jamuriate hospital where overwhelmed medical staff struggled to treat bloodied men, women and children lying in corridors.
"The latest toll from Kabul hospitals stands at 40 martyred and 140 wounded," health ministry spokesman Waheed Majroh told AFP. LINK
An AFP reporter saw "lots of dead and wounded" civilians in the nearby Jamuriate hospital where overwhelmed medical staff struggled to treat bloodied men, women and children lying in corridors.
"The latest toll from Kabul hospitals stands at 40 martyred and 140 wounded," health ministry spokesman Waheed Majroh told AFP. LINK
Friday, 26 January 2018
Suicide attack in Kandahar city leaves 14 dead or wounded
Suicide attack in Kandahar city leaves 14 dead or wounded - The Khaama Press News Agency:
The provincial police chief General Abdul Raziq confirmed an explosion has taken place in the vicinity of the 11th police district of the city.
He said the target of the explosion was the police vehicle and the blast has taken place in Aino Mina township.
According to Gen. Raziq, at one person was killed and four others including a civilian were wounded.
The provincial police chief General Abdul Raziq confirmed an explosion has taken place in the vicinity of the 11th police district of the city.
He said the target of the explosion was the police vehicle and the blast has taken place in Aino Mina township.
According to Gen. Raziq, at one person was killed and four others including a civilian were wounded.
6 members of Afghan family killed as rocket hits home in Ghazni
6 members of Afghan family killed as rocket hits home in Ghazni – police — RT Newsline:
The incident took place in Qara Baghi village in the outskirts of Ghazni city, the provincial capital. The rocket was fired by the Taliban, police said. However, the Taliban has denied involvement in the attack.
The incident took place in Qara Baghi village in the outskirts of Ghazni city, the provincial capital. The rocket was fired by the Taliban, police said. However, the Taliban has denied involvement in the attack.
Save The Children Attack
Four gunmen stormed an office of the Save the Children aid agency in Afghanistan, killing at least five people and wounding 25, not including the assailants, officials said.— NBC News (@NBCNews) January 25, 2018
Read more: https://t.co/m43if5GOH4 pic.twitter.com/P71rRKRTNT
Afghan Governor Quits, Citing Region's Worsening Security
Afghan Governor Quits, Citing Region's Worsening Security:
"I have resigned from my post because of the worsening security situation in Farah," Mohammad Aref Shah Jahan told reporters on January 25, citing "interference in my responsibilities from various individuals."
The province, one of the poorest in the country, is situated on the border with Iran in the far west of Afghanistan.
"I have resigned from my post because of the worsening security situation in Farah," Mohammad Aref Shah Jahan told reporters on January 25, citing "interference in my responsibilities from various individuals."
The province, one of the poorest in the country, is situated on the border with Iran in the far west of Afghanistan.
Thursday, 25 January 2018
Intercontinental - Official Death Toll Now at 40
At least 40 people were killed in the attack on #Kabul's luxury #IntercontinentalHotel at the weekend, official figures showed Thursday -- almost double the earlier toll released by #Afghan authorities.https://t.co/YGcw3KT3y4— The Peninsula (@PeninsulaQatar) January 25, 2018
Two Months After U.S. Invaded Afghanistan, Donald Rumsfeld Asked What Languages Are Spoken There
Two Months After U.S. Invaded Afghanistan, Donald Rumsfeld Asked What Languages Are Spoken There:
The “Languages” memo is part of a roughly 900-page tranche of Rumsfeld’s memos released after a five-year Freedom of Information Act fight by the National Security Archive. Following a FOIA lawsuit filed by the archive, the government agreed to release a total of roughly 59,000 pages of memos in monthly tranches. The first group of memos contains many of Rumsfeld’s notorious short internal memoranda, known colloquially as “snowflakes,” which were written in the months before and after the September 11 attacks.
The “Languages” memo is part of a roughly 900-page tranche of Rumsfeld’s memos released after a five-year Freedom of Information Act fight by the National Security Archive. Following a FOIA lawsuit filed by the archive, the government agreed to release a total of roughly 59,000 pages of memos in monthly tranches. The first group of memos contains many of Rumsfeld’s notorious short internal memoranda, known colloquially as “snowflakes,” which were written in the months before and after the September 11 attacks.
Tampa resident, former Fox 13 reporter killed in Kabul attack
![Glenn Selig was in Afghanistan working on a project about counter extremism when he was killed in an attack on a hotel. [Times file (2010)]](http://www.tampabay.com/storyimage/HI/20180124/ARTICLE/301249559/AR/0/AR-301249559.jpg?MaxW=950)
Tampa resident, former Fox 13 reporter killed in Kabul attack | WTSP.com: “Unfortunately, we have received confirmation Glenn Selig was killed during the attack on the Intercontinental Hotel. Glenn was a tireless professional, loyal friend and pillar of the community, but most importantly he was a loving husband and wonderful father," the statement from Selig Multimedia read. "The loss for his family and friends cannot be measured nor conveyed strongly enough, but we thank everyone for the outpouring of support we have received.”
Wednesday, 24 January 2018
Intercontinental Hotel On Lockdown as Reports speak of Much Higher Toll
Authorities are investigating how the six militants were able to slip past Kabul Balkh Safety & Security (KBSS) guards and launch the assault with guns and grenades.
A witness and a security source told AFP that at least two of the gunmen were armed and inside the hotel before the attack began, and questions have been raised -- including by the country's interior minister -- over whether the militants had inside help.
An AFP reporter and driver visited the landmark 1960s building on a hilltop overlooking the Afghan capital on Saturday, hours before the assault began.
They described cursory security checks by KBSS, accounts confirmed by other recent visitors.
"We were told the scanning machines were not working today," said telecom executive Aziz Tayeb, who hid behind a pillar during the assault.
IG says Pentagon backed Afghan units involved in 'gross violations of human rights'
IG says Pentagon backed Afghan units involved in 'gross violations of human rights' | TheHill:“Although DOD [Department of Defense] and State have confirmed that some units of the Afghan security forces have committed gross violations of human rights, the Secretary of Defense has used the notwithstanding clause in the DOD Appropriations Acts to continue providing [Afghanistan Security Forces Fund] funding for select training, equipment, and other assistance to some implicated units in Afghanistan,” the Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction (SIGAR) wrote in the report released Tuesday.
At least two dead after attack at Save the Children offices in Afghanistan
At least two dead after attack at Save the Children offices in Afghanistan | talkRADIO:
Reports claim there were at least three gunmen and photos show black smoke rising from the building.
Some reports claim two of the perpetrators have now been killed, but this is not confirmed.
Responsibility has not yet been claimed by any group for the attack, which started at around 9:10am local time (4:40am GMT).
Reports claim there were at least three gunmen and photos show black smoke rising from the building.
Some reports claim two of the perpetrators have now been killed, but this is not confirmed.
Responsibility has not yet been claimed by any group for the attack, which started at around 9:10am local time (4:40am GMT).
Monday, 22 January 2018
Intelligence and Security Agencies Lambasted Over Hotel Attack
Intelligence and Security Agencies Lambasted Over Hotel Attack | TOLOnews:
Following the 17-hour-long siege of Kabul’s Intercontinental Hotel on Saturday evening, which claimed lives of an estimated 43 people, a number of former military officers and residents sharply criticized the investigative and intelligence departments for their failure to prevent such an attack on the capital. The military officers said the intelligence agencies are incapable of gathering information to thwart such incidents.
Following the 17-hour-long siege of Kabul’s Intercontinental Hotel on Saturday evening, which claimed lives of an estimated 43 people, a number of former military officers and residents sharply criticized the investigative and intelligence departments for their failure to prevent such an attack on the capital. The military officers said the intelligence agencies are incapable of gathering information to thwart such incidents.
Sunday, 21 January 2018
11 Kam Air Employess, Mostly Ukrainians, Killed at Intercontinental
Eleven Kam Air crew members have been killed in Intercontinental Hotel Taliban siege https://t.co/LAfprvAbo9 pic.twitter.com/WpDcvduMwJ— Aviation24.be (@aviation24_be) January 21, 2018
Senior police officer among five killed in Farah bombing
Senior police officer among five killed in Farah bombing - Afghanistan TimesAfghanistan Times:
Golbahar Mojahed, head of security affairs for the provincial police department was killed Saturday night when a bomb placed close to a police checkpoint in the outskirts of the provincial capital, said Iqbal Baher, provincial spokesman.
Golbahar Mojahed, head of security affairs for the provincial police department was killed Saturday night when a bomb placed close to a police checkpoint in the outskirts of the provincial capital, said Iqbal Baher, provincial spokesman.
Hotel Toll Rising - 14 foreigners, four Afghans killed in Kabul Attack
Fourteen foreigners, four Afghans killed in Intercontinental Hotel attack in Kabul - Independent.ie:
Local airline Kam Air said around 40 of its pilots and air crew, many of whom are foreigners, were staying in the hotel and as many as 10 had been killed. But Zamari Kamgar, the airline's deputy director said it was still trying to locate its staff and did not yet know whether they were all safe.
Local airline Kam Air said around 40 of its pilots and air crew, many of whom are foreigners, were staying in the hotel and as many as 10 had been killed. But Zamari Kamgar, the airline's deputy director said it was still trying to locate its staff and did not yet know whether they were all safe.
Consul General For Karachi Killed in Kabul Hotel Attack
Afghan consul general for #Karachi "Abdullah Poyan" known killed in intercontinental attack pic.twitter.com/JFZIoT71wf— Habibullah Helal (@alhelal_01) January 21, 2018
M.Zahir Ghaus Killed in Intercontinental Hotel Attack
3rd known person killed in #Kabul intercontinental attack is M.Zahir ghaus pic.twitter.com/ZDTzQBHTxK— Habibullah Helal (@alhelal_01) January 21, 2018
US has “destroyed” Afghanistan, says former Afghan president
US has “destroyed” Afghanistan, says former Afghan president - Mehr News Agency:
Participating in ‘The Afghan Poser’ panel session, Karzai said he had invited the US to Afghanistan to bring peace and stability and defeat extremism, but after coming to the country, they destroyed it. Karzai, who served as the president of Afghanistan between 2001 and 2014, fell out of favor with the US after he rejected the controversial bilateral security agreement between Washington and Kabul in the run up to 2014 Afghan presidential elections. Since then, he has repeatedly and vigorously criticized Washington’s Afghanistan policy.
Helmand blast leaves 4 soldiers dead, 3 hurt
Helmand blast leaves 4 soldiers dead, 3 hurt | Pajhwok Afghan News:
Taliban spokesman Qari Yousaf Ahmadi claimed responsibility for the attack. He wrote in his Twitter account that the attack was carried out by the Taliban's special unit.
Taliban spokesman Qari Yousaf Ahmadi claimed responsibility for the attack. He wrote in his Twitter account that the attack was carried out by the Taliban's special unit.
Saturday, 20 January 2018
Gunmen storm Inter-Continental Hotel in Kabul
Gunmen storm Inter-Continental Hotel in Kabul | Afghanistan News | Al Jazeera:
Four attackers armed with automatic weapons on Saturday stormed Inter-Continental Hotel, one of the largest such facilities in Kabul.
It is believed that suicide bombers are among them.
There were reports that a number of people were being held hostage, while an eye witness said that part of the building was on fire.
It is believed that suicide bombers are among them.
There were reports that a number of people were being held hostage, while an eye witness said that part of the building was on fire.
Blast kills one in Afghanistan
Afghanistan Sun - Blast kills one in Afghanistan:
At least one person was killed and another injured after their vehicle hit a roadside mine in Paktia province of Afghanistan on Saturday morning.
At least one person was killed and another injured after their vehicle hit a roadside mine in Paktia province of Afghanistan on Saturday morning.
US and Pakistan clash at UN over Afghanistan
US and Pakistan clash at UN over Afghanistan | Fox News:
The exchange took place Friday at a Security Council meeting on the issue of Afghanistan's relations with its Central Asia neighbors and the link between peace and security.
U.S. Deputy Secretary of State John Sullivan said the United States can't work with Pakistan if it continues to give sanctuary to terrorist organizations and need to stop this and join efforts to resolve the Afghan conflict.
The exchange took place Friday at a Security Council meeting on the issue of Afghanistan's relations with its Central Asia neighbors and the link between peace and security.
U.S. Deputy Secretary of State John Sullivan said the United States can't work with Pakistan if it continues to give sanctuary to terrorist organizations and need to stop this and join efforts to resolve the Afghan conflict.
Friday, 19 January 2018
Spain To Send In More Troops To Afghanistan
Spain To Send In More Troops To Afghanistan | TOLOnews:
The Spain defense minister said her country will continue its cooperation and support to Afghan Special Force under the Resolute Support mission. She said the number of Spanish troops will increase in Afghanistan who will focus on training and building the capacity of Afghan National Defense and Security Force members. The two sides exchanged views on strengthening security relations between the two countries, the Presidential Palace said in the statement.
The Spain defense minister said her country will continue its cooperation and support to Afghan Special Force under the Resolute Support mission. She said the number of Spanish troops will increase in Afghanistan who will focus on training and building the capacity of Afghan National Defense and Security Force members. The two sides exchanged views on strengthening security relations between the two countries, the Presidential Palace said in the statement.
Thursday, 18 January 2018
Hamid Karzai
When I Catch Hamid Karzai, former Afghanistan President, Browsing in a Khan Market Bookstore... He Got the Complete Ghalib! pic.twitter.com/UzQIB5Zdhq— mayank austen soofi (@thedelhiwalla) January 17, 2018
8 police killed in Taliban attack on Helmand checkpoint
8 police killed in Taliban attack on Helmand checkpoint | Pajhwok Afghan News:
Deputy police chief Gul Khan told Pajhwok Afghan News the militants attacked the check-post in Mukhtar Kala area between Greshk and Lashkargah late on Wednesday.
He said eight police personnel were killed and two others injured. Reinforcements arrived at the site but could not repulse the attack soon. The militants also suffered casualties, but Khan did not have exact figures.
Deputy police chief Gul Khan told Pajhwok Afghan News the militants attacked the check-post in Mukhtar Kala area between Greshk and Lashkargah late on Wednesday.
He said eight police personnel were killed and two others injured. Reinforcements arrived at the site but could not repulse the attack soon. The militants also suffered casualties, but Khan did not have exact figures.
Wednesday, 17 January 2018
Taliban Fighters Using High-Tech Gear Kill Afghan Forces
Taliban Fighters Using High-Tech Gear Kill Afghan Forces - The New York Times:
Officials blamed what they said was a Taliban Red Unit, an insurgent formation that has increasingly featured in attacks on government positions, especially at night. “The unit is equipped with American weapons and night vision,” said Imamuddin Rahmani, a spokesman for the police in Kunduz. “The Red Unit carried out several attacks on check posts in Kunduz, captured the check posts and killed several soldiers. The Red Unit is a headache for security forces in Kunduz.”
Officials blamed what they said was a Taliban Red Unit, an insurgent formation that has increasingly featured in attacks on government positions, especially at night. “The unit is equipped with American weapons and night vision,” said Imamuddin Rahmani, a spokesman for the police in Kunduz. “The Red Unit carried out several attacks on check posts in Kunduz, captured the check posts and killed several soldiers. The Red Unit is a headache for security forces in Kunduz.”
Tuesday, 16 January 2018
Four Afghan police shot by colleague in Ghor
Four Afghan police shot by colleague in Ghor:
Abdulhai Khatibi, a spokesman for provincial governor, said that the incident happened in Shatigh checkpoint, north of Ghor capital city Ferozkoh.
The attacker and the victims were members of public protection force.
Abdulhai Khatibi, a spokesman for provincial governor, said that the incident happened in Shatigh checkpoint, north of Ghor capital city Ferozkoh.
The attacker and the victims were members of public protection force.
2 rockets fired at diplomatic missions in Kabul
2 rockets fired at diplomatic missions in Kabul | Pajhwok Afghan News:
One rocket fell on the road near the Canadian Embassy while another hit the Indian Embassy. The Ministry of External Affairs in Delhi confirmed the strike.
The embassy building was damaged by the rocket, which did not cause injuries, the ministry spokesman was quoted as saying by Indian media outlets.
The embassy building was damaged by the rocket, which did not cause injuries, the ministry spokesman was quoted as saying by Indian media outlets.
Monday, 15 January 2018
Au Pakistan, de violentes émeutes à la suite d’une série de viols et de meurtres d’enfants
#Afghanistanr: 2017 causalities: nearly 25,000 people killed, wounded... http://afghancentral.blogspot.com/2018/01/2017-causalities-nearly-25000-people.html?spref=tw
2017 causalities: nearly 25,000 people killed, wounded in Afghanistan
2017 causalities: nearly 25,000 people killed, wounded in Afghanistan | Pajhwok Afghan News:
From the total casualties 14 of every 25 people suffered losses in face to face clashes, four in airstrikes, three in suicide attacks, two each in targeted attack and bomb blasts.
In face to face clashes, security forces and militants (Daesh, Taliban) suffered most of casualties but last year there were reports of clashes between the Taliban and Daesh as well.
Zalmai Wardak, military affairs expert, said more face to face clashes had been taking place therefore more casualties inflicted in face to face firefight.
In face to face clashes, security forces and militants (Daesh, Taliban) suffered most of casualties but last year there were reports of clashes between the Taliban and Daesh as well.
Zalmai Wardak, military affairs expert, said more face to face clashes had been taking place therefore more casualties inflicted in face to face firefight.
Sunday, 14 January 2018
Casualties as violence escalates in various parts
Casualties as violence escalates in various parts | Pajhwok Afghan News:
In the same area, an Afghan local police (ALP) member was shot dead after hit by bullets fired from a long distance.
Elsewhere in northwestern Farah province, Taliban militants attacked security check-posts near Haider Qala village around the provincial city.
Mohammad Javid, a resident of the village, confirmed the attack late on Saturday night and said after exchanging fire with the assailants for a few hours, the security forces left the posts.
According to his information, three police were wounded in the clash. The Taliban have not yet commented about these incidents.
In the same area, an Afghan local police (ALP) member was shot dead after hit by bullets fired from a long distance.
Elsewhere in northwestern Farah province, Taliban militants attacked security check-posts near Haider Qala village around the provincial city.
Mohammad Javid, a resident of the village, confirmed the attack late on Saturday night and said after exchanging fire with the assailants for a few hours, the security forces left the posts.
According to his information, three police were wounded in the clash. The Taliban have not yet commented about these incidents.
Rebuilding Afghanistan
The US vowed to rebuild Afghanistan. But today, after millions of dollars spent and countless lives lost, the country's most important road is broken.— Vox (@voxdotcom) January 14, 2018
Where did the US go wrong? pic.twitter.com/YSzMXaYiNq
Saturday, 13 January 2018
At least 4 soldiers among 11 killed in Helmand attack
At least 4 soldiers among 11 killed in Helmand attack | Pajhwok Afghan News:
A reliable source, speaking on condition of anonymity, told Pajhwok Afghan News the militants attacked army check-posts in the district late on Friday. Four personnel and seven Taliban were killed in the ensuing firefight.
Nine soldiers and several insurgents wounded in the gunbattle, said the source. Provincial security official have not yet commented on the incident.
A reliable source, speaking on condition of anonymity, told Pajhwok Afghan News the militants attacked army check-posts in the district late on Friday. Four personnel and seven Taliban were killed in the ensuing firefight.
Nine soldiers and several insurgents wounded in the gunbattle, said the source. Provincial security official have not yet commented on the incident.
Did U.S. Special Forces Shoot a Truck Driver in Afghanistan? Yes.
Did U.S. Special Forces Shoot a Truck Driver in Afghanistan? - The New York Times: One segment of the video shows a service member firing a weapon into the driver’s window of a civilian truck from a short distance. The window is shattered, but it is unclear if the driver is injured — or why the shot was fired.
Friday, 12 January 2018
U.S. Bombs Afghan Militia Behind Insider Attack, Officials Say
U.S. Bombs Afghan Militia Behind Insider Attack, Officials Say - The New York Times:
The American military bombed members of an Afghan government militia who were on the front lines of the battle against the Islamic State in eastern Afghanistan, killing at least 13 fighters after at least one opened fire on American Special Forces soldiers deployed there, Afghan officials said Thursday.
How the US failed to rebuild Afghanistan - Vox
How the US failed to rebuild Afghanistan - Vox:
After 16 years, $3 billion has been spent on the Ring Road, and it remains unfinished. In fact, it’s rapidly deteriorating. The Taliban have swept back through Afghanistan and now claim almost half the country.
After 16 years, $3 billion has been spent on the Ring Road, and it remains unfinished. In fact, it’s rapidly deteriorating. The Taliban have swept back through Afghanistan and now claim almost half the country.
16 years later, Afghan capital under siege
The airport road is so vulnerable to bombings, U.S. and allied personnel are shuttled from the airport by helicopter. Logan observes that this maneuver could be considered ceding territory to the enemy. Not so says Nicholson. "I disagree. I think it's answering our moral imperative to protect the lives of our soldiers and civilians. So that's what we do."
Afghan official: Taliban kill 3 policemen in country's west
Afghan official: Taliban kill 3 policemen in country's west | Fox News:
Mohammad Naser Mehri, spokesman for the provincial governor, says the attack took place early in the morning on Friday, targeting a highway security outpost in the province's Bala Buluk district.
Mehri says more than 80 Taliban fighters took part in the attack. Police called in reinforcements, which repulsed the attackers.
Mohammad Naser Mehri, spokesman for the provincial governor, says the attack took place early in the morning on Friday, targeting a highway security outpost in the province's Bala Buluk district.
Mehri says more than 80 Taliban fighters took part in the attack. Police called in reinforcements, which repulsed the attackers.
Thursday, 11 January 2018
US Looks To Hire Contractors To Fly Drones In Afghanistan
US Looks To Hire Contractors To Fly Drones In Afghanistan | TOLOnews:
The US Navy is planning to hire drone-maker General Atomics to fly its own unarmed MQ-9 Reapers in support of US Marines in Afghanistan, American media reported Wednesday. The Drive reported that the contractor-operated drones would provide a "surge" of intelligence, reconnaissance, and surveillance capabilities as the US military expands its activities in the Central Asian country, which the US Air Force is not able to provide at present.
The proposed deal was announced by the Naval Air System Command (NAVAIR) on January 09.
The US Navy is planning to hire drone-maker General Atomics to fly its own unarmed MQ-9 Reapers in support of US Marines in Afghanistan, American media reported Wednesday. The Drive reported that the contractor-operated drones would provide a "surge" of intelligence, reconnaissance, and surveillance capabilities as the US military expands its activities in the Central Asian country, which the US Air Force is not able to provide at present.
The proposed deal was announced by the Naval Air System Command (NAVAIR) on January 09.
Wednesday, 10 January 2018
US advises citizens not to travel to Afghanistan
US advises citizens not to travel to Afghanistan | Pajhwok Afghan News: The State Department explained it would issue an overall travel advisory level for every country, but levels of advice might vary for specific locations or areas within a country. “Do not travel to Afghanistan due to crime, terrorism, civil unrest, and armed conflict,” the State Department said.
“Travel to all areas of Afghanistan is unsafe because of high levels of kidnappings, hostage taking, suicide bombings, widespread military combat operations, landmines, terrorist and insurgent attacks, including attacks using vehicle-borne or other improvised explosive devices (IEDs), it said.
Suicide Bomber Assassinates Women’s Attorney In Laghman
Suicide Bomber Assassinates Women’s Attorney In Laghman:
According to reports, the attorney went to safe house to investigate murder and violence on two women to this province was targeted by suicide bomber and killed.
Sarhadi Zwak spokesman governor of Laghman told BNA, in the shooting, the attorney lost her life and two others have been wounded.
According to reports, the attorney went to safe house to investigate murder and violence on two women to this province was targeted by suicide bomber and killed.
Sarhadi Zwak spokesman governor of Laghman told BNA, in the shooting, the attorney lost her life and two others have been wounded.
Imran Khan on Latest US Pakistan Spin
I am expressing the sentiments of Pakistanis after the US has made Pakistan the scapegoat for its failure in Afghanistan. pic.twitter.com/o1V16z6ABJ— Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) January 5, 2018
Video Emerges of US Soldiers Shooting Up Truck 'For Fun?'
Excuse me @ResoluteSupport, can you please explain this footage from US military which seems to show your men shooting directly into a truck for fun? #WarCrimes #Afghanistan pic.twitter.com/xNFDVtZDYc— M. H Arsalai (@ArsalaiH) January 6, 2018
Pakistan May Block US Supply Lines
#Pakistan may block the supply path #US troops use to reach #Afghanistan https://t.co/5cIC6HahaW pic.twitter.com/1l60npOPAC— Sputnik (@SputnikInt) January 8, 2018
Tuesday, 9 January 2018
Afghan journalist killed, 9 injured in Kabul suicide attack
Afghan journalist killed, 9 injured in Kabul suicide attack : IFJ:
Said Mehdi Hosaini, a journalist working for Afghan Voice News Agency, was killed in the suicide bomb attack which took place at the Tebyan Culture Center building in Kabul, capital of Afghanistan, where the news agency is based.
The attacker targeted a students’ meeting which had been organised to mark the 38th anniversary of the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan. The first blast was followed by two other blasts that targeted security officials and journalists gathering outside the building.
Said Mehdi Hosaini, a journalist working for Afghan Voice News Agency, was killed in the suicide bomb attack which took place at the Tebyan Culture Center building in Kabul, capital of Afghanistan, where the news agency is based.
The attacker targeted a students’ meeting which had been organised to mark the 38th anniversary of the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan. The first blast was followed by two other blasts that targeted security officials and journalists gathering outside the building.
US failed in its war on terror in Afghanistan
US failed in its war on terror in Afghanistan: Khurram Dastgir | Pakistan Today: On the relations with India, Dastgir shared that Pakistan wants to resolve issues with India. However, when Pakistan wanted to build a relationship with its hostile neighbour, India implemented the Cold Start doctrine.
It is saddening to see the continuous violation of the ceasefire agreements by Indian troops, he said, adding that Indian troops violated LoC ceasefire agreement more than 1,300 times in 2016.
Khan stated that everything between US and Pakistan was out in the open and that Pakistan wants acknowledgement of its sacrifices.
Monday, 8 January 2018
Concerns Over New Afghan-US Airstrikes
Concerns Over New Afghan-US Airstrikes | IWPR:
UN officials, warning that the government’s weakening grip on security in Helmand was hampering counter-narcotic efforts, noted that opium production had risen by 87 per cent from 2016.
The US military estimates the Taleban earns between 300 and 400 million dollars a year from drug production, including around 200 million dollars from heroin.
Insurgent groups also generate revenue though taxing local populations in areas they control. The tax, known as ushur, is often charged on proceeds from farming as well as illegal mining.
UN officials, warning that the government’s weakening grip on security in Helmand was hampering counter-narcotic efforts, noted that opium production had risen by 87 per cent from 2016.
The US military estimates the Taleban earns between 300 and 400 million dollars a year from drug production, including around 200 million dollars from heroin.
Insurgent groups also generate revenue though taxing local populations in areas they control. The tax, known as ushur, is often charged on proceeds from farming as well as illegal mining.
Saturday, 6 January 2018
U.S. strategy in Afghanistan faces serious obstacles: ICG
U.S. strategy in Afghanistan faces serious obstacles: ICG:
“The strategy faces serious obstacles. While hitting the Taliban harder might bring tactical gains, it is unlikely to change the war’s course or the incentives of a locally rooted and potent insurgency,” Robert Malley, the president and CEO of ICG said in an op-ed.
“The strategy faces serious obstacles. While hitting the Taliban harder might bring tactical gains, it is unlikely to change the war’s course or the incentives of a locally rooted and potent insurgency,” Robert Malley, the president and CEO of ICG said in an op-ed.
Friday, 5 January 2018
Suicide bombing kills at least 20 in Kabul, including 16 police officers - Update
Suicide bombing kills at least 20 in Kabul, including 16 police officers - The Washington Post:
Hours later, the Islamic State claimed responsibility for the attack through the group’s own news service, Amaq. The Islamic State has a regional affiliate in Afghanistan, and has claimed a string of attacks in Kabul in recent weeks, including one on a Shiite cultural center last week that claimed nearly 50 lives.
Hours later, the Islamic State claimed responsibility for the attack through the group’s own news service, Amaq. The Islamic State has a regional affiliate in Afghanistan, and has claimed a string of attacks in Kabul in recent weeks, including one on a Shiite cultural center last week that claimed nearly 50 lives.
War in Afghanistan Set to Intensify in 2018
War in Afghanistan Set to Intensify This Year: ICG | Ariana News:
The international Crisis Group has criticized U.S. strategy in Afghanistan, saying it is unlikely to change the war’s course or the incentives of a locally rooted and potent insurgency in the war-torn country.
The international Crisis Group has criticized U.S. strategy in Afghanistan, saying it is unlikely to change the war’s course or the incentives of a locally rooted and potent insurgency in the war-torn country.
Thursday, 4 January 2018
Kabul - Suicide bomber attacks Afghanistan capital leaving dozens of casualties
Suicide bomber attacks Afghanistan capital leaving dozens of casualties - World - CBC News:
Wahid Majroh, a spokesman for the ministry of public health, said 11 dead and 25 wounded had been brought to city hospitals after the blast in an area of the city not far from the U.S. Embassy and other foreign missions.
As security forces arrived, a Reuters reporter saw four police vehicles carrying dead or wounded security personnel from the scene.
Wahid Majroh, a spokesman for the ministry of public health, said 11 dead and 25 wounded had been brought to city hospitals after the blast in an area of the city not far from the U.S. Embassy and other foreign missions.
As security forces arrived, a Reuters reporter saw four police vehicles carrying dead or wounded security personnel from the scene.
'US scapegoating Pakistan over its own Afghanistan failure' — RT World News
'US scapegoating Pakistan over its own Afghanistan failure' — RT World News: Military analyst Kamal Alam told RT the loss of American aid won’t pose a significant problem for Pakistan, since other players are becoming more prominent in the region.
RT:What’s your take on Donald Trump's latest tweet?
Kamal Alam: He’s made a few of these tweets before, last year, so it is not a complete surprise. However, the timing of it might be – given there might have been more pressing issues for the Americans. But I think they seem to be taking a very hard line on Pakistan and blaming Pakistan for failure in Afghanistan. Because the US policy is not working in Afghanistan, Pakistan becomes a good scapegoat for US failures.
RT:What do you think the result would be if the US withheld military aid to Pakistan?
KA: I think it won't be as significant, because US military aid to Pakistan used to be much more than it is now. It is only around $250 million. It used to be close to $2 billion. So this aid is not that significant in Pakistan's overall defense strategy. China is the biggest player in Pakistan. There are other countries like Turkey and Russia that are now becoming very close to Pakistan militarily. Overall the US influence will not decline. However, if this aid is cut it won’t have a massive impact on Pakistan, because it is looking elsewhere for its future.
Wednesday, 3 January 2018
Afghanistan: U.S. Commander Calls For Aggressive Strategy
Afghanistan: U.S. Commander Calls For Aggressive Strategy | Time:
Gen. Joseph Votel of U.S. Central Command said an influx of new American trainers can help escalate the fight. They’ll be operating with Afghan units, closer to the front lines and at greater risk, but Votel said U.S. commanders will ensure American and allied forces have adequate protection.
Tuesday, 2 January 2018
U.S. Service Member Killed, Four Others Injured In Afghanistan
U.S. Service Member Killed, Four Others Injured In Afghanistan 'Combat Engagement' : The Two-Way : NPR:
The U.S. military did not immediately explain what kind of combat the service members were engaged in at the time or whether they were fighting ISIS or the Taliban.
Two of the injured service members are receiving medical treatment nearby. They are in stable condition, the military says, and the two others "have returned to duty."
The U.S. military did not immediately explain what kind of combat the service members were engaged in at the time or whether they were fighting ISIS or the Taliban.
Two of the injured service members are receiving medical treatment nearby. They are in stable condition, the military says, and the two others "have returned to duty."
Bomb Blast Leaves 4 Police Forces Dead and Wounded in Kabul
Bomb Blast Leaves 4 Police Forces Dead and Wounded in Kabul | Ariana News:
Nasrat Rahimi, the deputy spokesperson of Interior Ministry previously told Ariana News that three police personnel sustained injuries in the incident.
“The blast was as the result of a magnetic bomb explosion which was attached to a Police Ranger vehicle, in Baghe Dauod neighborhood of Paghman district”, he further noted about the incident.
Nasrat Rahimi, the deputy spokesperson of Interior Ministry previously told Ariana News that three police personnel sustained injuries in the incident.
“The blast was as the result of a magnetic bomb explosion which was attached to a Police Ranger vehicle, in Baghe Dauod neighborhood of Paghman district”, he further noted about the incident.
British embassy in Kabul will move to high-security zone amid Taliban resurgence
British embassy in Kabul will move to high-security zone amid Taliban resurgence — RT UK News:
Sir Nicholas Kay, the British ambassador to Afghanistan, has been in talks with senior members of the Afghan government including President Ashraf Ghani about finding a new location for the embassy, The Times reports. An old Afghan ministry for transport, situated on the other side of the ‘green zone’ and close to the US embassy, is thought to be the most likely choice.
Sir Nicholas Kay, the British ambassador to Afghanistan, has been in talks with senior members of the Afghan government including President Ashraf Ghani about finding a new location for the embassy, The Times reports. An old Afghan ministry for transport, situated on the other side of the ‘green zone’ and close to the US embassy, is thought to be the most likely choice.
Monday, 1 January 2018
War Without a Rationale
War Without a Rationale | The American Conservative:
In 2001, after the 9/11 attacks, the United States invaded Afghanistan and quickly smashed the Taliban government. It also killed hundreds of members of the al Qaeda group that had launched the attacks, although leaders Osama bin Laden and Ayman al Zawahiri escaped to Pakistan, along with about 200 followers. Ever since, we have been told that the U.S. military occupation of Afghanistan must continue indefinitely or else al Qaeda will return and make the country once again into a “safe haven” from which to attack the United States. In U.S. political discourse and news stories, this has often been stated as a flat fact, beyond dispute.
In 2001, after the 9/11 attacks, the United States invaded Afghanistan and quickly smashed the Taliban government. It also killed hundreds of members of the al Qaeda group that had launched the attacks, although leaders Osama bin Laden and Ayman al Zawahiri escaped to Pakistan, along with about 200 followers. Ever since, we have been told that the U.S. military occupation of Afghanistan must continue indefinitely or else al Qaeda will return and make the country once again into a “safe haven” from which to attack the United States. In U.S. political discourse and news stories, this has often been stated as a flat fact, beyond dispute.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)