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ICC Unveils War Crimes Arrest Warrants for Six Libyan Suspects

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ICC Unveils War Crimes Arrest Warrants for Six Libyan Suspects

The International Criminal Court (ICC) on Friday unsealed arrest warrants for six Libyan men allegedly connected to a brutal militia accused of multiple killings and other war crimes in the western town of Tarhunah.

ICC Prosecutor Karim Khan said evidence indicates “Tarhunah residents have been subjected to crimes amounting to war crimes, including murder, outrages upon personal dignity, cruel treatment, torture, sexual violence, and rape.”

The warrants target Abdelrahim al-Kani, Makhlouf Douma, Nasser al-Lahsa, Mohammed Salheen, Abdelbari al-Shaqaqi, and Fathi al-Zinkal. Three are alleged leaders or senior members of the Al Kaniyat militia that controlled Tarhunah from at least 2015 to June 2020, while the others are Libyan security officials associated with the group.

“This is a significant step towards accountability in Libya,” said human rights lawyer Elham Saudi. “However, the challenge now lies in actually apprehending these suspects.”

The unsealing comes after mass graves were discovered in Tarhunah following the militia’s withdrawal in 2020. The town had been a focal point in the conflict between rival administrations in Libya’s east and west since the 2011 NATO-backed uprising that toppled dictator Moammar Gadhafi.

Khan emphasized the ICC’s reliance on member states for enforcement, stating, “We’re seeking to work closely with Libyan authorities so these individuals can face charges in a court of law.”

The ICC, which opened its Libya investigation in 2011 at the UN Security Council’s request, has previously issued warrants for figures including Gadhafi’s son, Saif Al-Islam Gadhafi.

Six Pakistani Soldiers Killed in Clash with Militants Near Afghan Border

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Six Pakistani Soldiers Killed in Clash with Militants Near Afghan Border

Six Pakistani soldiers, including a high-ranking officer, were killed during a clash with Islamist militants in North Waziristan, a volatile region near the Afghan border, the military said Saturday.

Lieutenant Colonel Muhammad Ali Shoukat was among those who lost their lives in the operation, highlighting the senior leadership’s direct involvement in counter-insurgency efforts.

“The loss of Lieutenant Colonel Shoukat and his men underscores the ongoing challenges we face in this region,” said a military spokesperson, speaking on condition of anonymity due to security protocols. “Their sacrifice will not be in vain as we continue our mission to secure Pakistan’s borders.”

North Waziristan, part of Pakistan’s tribal belt, has seen a surge in militant attacks despite sustained military operations aimed at suppressing Islamist groups. The area’s proximity to Afghanistan has made it a hotbed for insurgent activity.

While the military did not provide specifics about the militants involved in this latest clash, the region has historically been a stronghold for various extremist factions, including the Pakistani Taliban and al-Qaeda affiliates.

This incident comes amid growing concerns about the resurgence of militant groups in the area following the Taliban’s takeover of Afghanistan in 2021. Pakistan has repeatedly called on the Afghan Taliban to prevent cross-border attacks, a persistent source of tension between the two countries.

UN: Migrant Workers in Lebanon Abandoned as Employers Flee Conflict

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The United Nations reported Friday that some migrant domestic workers in Lebanon have been abandoned or locked in homes as their employers flee Israeli airstrikes, exacerbating the vulnerabilities of an already precarious workforce.

Mathieu Luciano, head of the International Organization for Migration (IOM) in Lebanon, said, “We are receiving increasing reports of migrant domestic workers being abandoned by their Lebanese employers, either left on the streets or in their homes as their employers flee.”

Lebanon hosts approximately 170,000 migrant workers, predominantly women from countries including Ethiopia, Kenya, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Bangladesh, and the Philippines. Many work under the kafala sponsorship system, which ties their legal status to their employers.

“The kafala system has long been criticized for enabling abuse,” said Dr. Amal Hassan, a labor rights expert at the American University of Beirut. “This crisis is exposing its deep-rooted flaws.”

Luciano highlighted that migrant workers face limited shelter options when abandoned, with many reluctant to seek humanitarian assistance due to undocumented status. The IOM is receiving increased requests for repatriation but lacks funding to meet the demand.

The conflict has killed over 1,000 people in Lebanon since September 23, according to the Lebanese health ministry, and displaced hundreds of thousands in a country already struggling with economic crisis.

Luciano emphasized the mental health toll on migrant workers, many of whom cannot speak Arabic and fear arrest or deportation if they seek help. Some workers have reportedly been locked in homes to “keep house” while employers seek safety elsewhere.

As the situation deteriorates, international rights groups are calling for urgent action to protect migrant workers caught in the crossfire of regional tensions.

“This crisis underscores the need for comprehensive reform of migrant labor laws in Lebanon,” said Sarah Leah Whitson, executive director of Democracy for the Arab World Now. “The international community must step in to ensure these vulnerable workers are not left behind.”

The IOM is seeking additional funding to assist with repatriation efforts, as many countries have requested help evacuating their citizens from Lebanon. As the conflict continues, the plight of migrant workers remains a growing humanitarian concern amidst the broader regional instability.

Israeli Airstrikes Rock Beirut, Cut Off Key Lebanon-Syria Border Crossing

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Israeli Airstrikes Rock Beirut, Cut Off Key Lebanon-Syria Border Crossing

Israel launched a series of intense airstrikes on Beirut’s southern suburbs and a major Lebanon-Syria border crossing Friday, marking a significant escalation in its conflict with Hezbollah and raising fears of a wider regional war.

The overnight blasts in Beirut’s southern suburbs, a Hezbollah stronghold, sent massive plumes of smoke and flames into the night sky, shaking buildings kilometers away in the Lebanese capital. The Israeli military said it targeted Hezbollah’s central intelligence headquarters around midnight.

“These strikes represent a dangerous escalation that could draw more regional players into the conflict,” said Middle East analyst Dr. Sarah Kaplan. “The targeting of civilian infrastructure like border crossings is particularly concerning.”

Lebanon’s state-run National News Agency reported more than 10 consecutive airstrikes in the area. The Israeli military claimed to have killed 100 Hezbollah fighters in the last 24 hours, though this could not be independently verified.

The strikes have taken a heavy toll on Lebanon, with some 1,400 Lebanese, including Hezbollah fighters and civilians, killed and about 1.2 million displaced since late September when Israel intensified its campaign against Hezbollah.

In a disturbing development, the Salah Ghandour Hospital in southern Lebanon reported being shelled Friday evening after receiving evacuation warnings. Nine medical staff members were injured, most seriously, according to a hospital statement.

The conflict has seen Hezbollah launch approximately 100 rockets into Israel on Friday alone, according to the Israeli military. Israel also claimed to have killed Mohammed Rashid Skafi, head of Hezbollah’s communications division, in a strike on Thursday.

The bombing of the Lebanon-Syria border area, about 50 kilometers east of Beirut, led to the closure of the busy Masnaa Border Crossing. Israel said it targeted the crossing because Hezbollah was using it to transport military equipment. The closure has stranded thousands of refugees fleeing the violence.

As the conflict intensifies, international concern is growing. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, visiting Beirut on Friday, warned of a powerful retaliation if Israel attacks Iran directly. Meanwhile, in Tehran, Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei praised Iran’s recent missile strikes on Israel and indicated readiness for further action if needed.

The escalating violence threatens to draw more countries into a wider regional conflict, with the potential for devastating humanitarian consequences. As diplomatic efforts struggle to keep pace with the rapidly evolving situation, the international community watches with growing alarm.

Car Bomb Kills Security Chief at Ukraine’s Russian-Held Nuclear Plant

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Car Bomb Kills Security Chief at Ukraine’s Russian-Held Nuclear Plant

The head of security at the Russian-controlled Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant in southern Ukraine was killed in a car bombing Friday, according to authorities in Kyiv and Moscow, heightening tensions over the facility’s safety.

Ukraine’s HUR military intelligence agency reported that Andriy Korotkiy died when his vehicle was hit by an explosion around 7:00 a.m. local time in the Russian-occupied city of Enerhodar. The agency shared surveillance footage of the incident, which could not be independently verified.

Russia’s Investigative Committee announced the launch of a criminal murder investigation but did not name the victim.

“This incident underscores the volatile situation surrounding Europe’s largest nuclear plant,” said nuclear safety expert Dr. Elena Sokova, speaking to the Associated Press. “It raises serious concerns about the security of personnel and the potential for escalation.”

Ukraine’s HUR accused Korotkiy of defecting to Russian occupying authorities and aiding in “war crimes and repossessions against Ukrainians under occupation.” The agency claimed he shared personal data of pro-Ukrainian colleagues with Russian authorities and organized pro-Russian events.

Russia has controlled the Zaporizhzhia plant since the early days of its invasion in February 2022. The United Nations’ International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has repeatedly called for restraint, warning of the risk of a major nuclear accident amid mutual accusations of attacks on the facility.

“The IAEA is closely monitoring the situation,” an agency spokesperson said. “We continue to stress the critical importance of ensuring the safety and security of the plant and its staff.”

Source: themoscowtimes.com

Seven Killed, Dozens Injured as Wedding Bus Plunges into Pakistan Ravine

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Seven Killed, Dozens Injured as Wedding Bus Plunges into Pakistan Ravine

At least seven people were killed and 37 others injured when a bus carrying wedding guests plunged into a rocky ravine near Quetta, the capital of Pakistan’s Balochistan province, local officials reported Thursday.

Emergency services rushed to the scene, where shocking images showed the mangled bus lying upside down in the ravine. Among the injured were several children, with some in critical condition, according to Wasim Baig, a spokesman for the provincial health department.

“This tragic incident is heartbreaking and deeply saddening,” said Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti, who ordered an immediate inquiry into the crash. “If negligence is found, action will be taken.”

The cause of the accident remains unknown, with authorities launching an investigation to determine the factors leading to the tragedy.

This incident adds to a series of recent deadly bus crashes in Pakistan. In August, two separate accidents in Balochistan and eastern Punjab province claimed 32 lives, both attributed to driver negligence. Earlier that month, 28 Pakistani pilgrims died in a bus crash in neighboring Iran while en route to Iraq.

These recurring tragedies have raised concerns about road safety standards and enforcement in Pakistan, particularly in remote areas like Balochistan.

Boston Gang Member Pleads Guilty to Racketeering, Drug Charges

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Boston Gang Member Pleads Guilty to Racketeering, Drug Charges

A member of a violent Boston gang pleaded guilty Thursday to racketeering conspiracy and drug trafficking charges, federal prosecutors announced.

Charod Taylor, 35, known as “Pachino,” admitted to his involvement with the Cameron Street gang, a group based in Dorchester known for using violence to control territory and drug markets.

U.S. Senior District Court Judge William G. Young scheduled sentencing for January 15, 2025.

Prosecutors say Taylor participated in an open-air drug market run by the gang, selling cocaine and crack cocaine to cooperating witnesses seven times between February 2021 and March 2022.

“This guilty plea marks a significant step in our ongoing efforts to dismantle violent gang operations in Boston,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Joshua S. Levy. “The Cameron Street gang has been a source of violence and drug distribution in our communities for too long.”

According to court documents, the Cameron Street gang used social media to promote their activities, celebrate murders, and threaten rivals. Members were known to possess firearms for protection and to assault rival gangs.

Taylor faces up to 20 years in prison for each charge, along with supervised release and substantial fines.

The case is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces operation, involving multiple agencies working to disrupt major criminal organizations.

James M. Ferguson, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives’ Boston Field Division, stated, “This conviction demonstrates our commitment to removing violent offenders from our streets and dismantling the organizations that fuel drug addiction in our communities.”

The investigation involved cooperation from various law enforcement agencies, including the Drug Enforcement Administration, Boston Police Department, and several local police departments.

As the case continues, prosecutors emphasize that the remaining defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.

Real Madrid Seeks Redemption Against Surging Villarreal in La Liga Clash

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Real Madrid Seeks Redemption Against Surging Villarreal in La Liga Clash

Real Madrid looks to rebound from their first defeat since January when they host third-placed Villarreal in a crucial La Liga match at the Santiago Bernabeu on Saturday night.

Carlo Ancelotti’s side, currently second in the table and three points behind leaders Barcelona, suffered a 1-0 loss to Lille in the Champions League midweek. The defeat ended Real’s unbeaten run across all competitions since January.

“We need to show character and resilience after the Lille setback,” Ancelotti said in his pre-match press conference. “Villarreal is a quality side, but playing at home, we expect to get back to winning ways.”

Real Madrid remains unbeaten in La Liga this season, with their last league loss dating back to September 2023 against Atletico Madrid. However, they’ve won only one of their last six league encounters with Villarreal.

Villarreal, under manager Marcelino, has made an impressive start to the season, sitting just one point behind Real Madrid in third place. The Yellow Submarine boasts the joint-second best attacking record in La Liga with 17 goals scored.

“We’re coming to the Bernabeu with confidence, but we’re under no illusions about the challenge,” Marcelino told reporters. “Real Madrid, even after a loss, remains one of the best teams in the world.”

Real Madrid will be without goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois due to a hip injury, with Andriy Lunin set to deputize. Kylian Mbappe, who made a quicker-than-expected return from injury as a substitute against Lille, is likely to start.

Villarreal faces potential absences of their own, with top scorer Ayoze Perez a major doubt for the clash. The visitors will also be missing Gerard Moreno and Juan Foyth due to fitness concerns.

As Real Madrid aims to keep pace with Barcelona at the top of La Liga and Villarreal seeks to cement their place in the top four, Saturday’s match promises to be a compelling encounter between two of Spain’s top sides.

Belarus Hands Harsh Sentences to 12 for Attack on Russian Warplane

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Belarus Hands Harsh Sentences to 12 for Attack on Russian Warplane

A Belarusian court on Friday convicted 12 people, most in absentia, for a drone attack that damaged a Russian military radar plane last year, handing down prison sentences of up to 25 years.

The case centers on the February 2023 attack on a Beriev A-50 plane at the Machulishchy airfield near Minsk, where Russia stations troops and equipment used in its military operations in Ukraine. A Belarusian guerrilla group, composed largely of former soldiers, claimed responsibility for the incident.

According to the state news agency Belta, four defendants were convicted of terrorism and received sentences ranging from 15 to 25 years. The independent news site Mediazona reported that these four, along with three others among the convicted, are currently outside Belarus.

“This verdict reflects the Belarusian government’s harsh stance on any perceived threats to its military cooperation with Russia,” said Dr. Elena Korosteleva, Professor of International Politics at the University of Kent, speaking to the Associated Press.

The remaining defendants faced lesser charges, resulting in sentences from just over two years to 15 years imprisonment. The specific details of their involvement were not immediately clear.

The attack and subsequent trial highlight the complex relationship between Belarus and Russia, as well as the internal opposition to Belarus’s support for Russian military activities.

“These sentences send a clear message to opposition groups, both within and outside Belarus,” Korosteleva added. “It demonstrates the regime’s determination to maintain its alignment with Moscow, despite international criticism.”

US to End Temporary Status for Hundreds of Thousands of Migrants

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US to End Temporary Status for Hundreds of Thousands of Migrants

The Biden administration announced Friday it will not renew a temporary humanitarian entry program that allowed some 530,000 migrants from Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua, and Venezuela to enter the United States since October 2022.

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) said the two-year “parole” grants for these migrants will begin to expire in the coming weeks. However, many may be eligible to remain in the country under other programs.

“This decision aligns with the plan outlined when the program was launched,” said DHS spokesperson Naree Ketudat. “Migrants without permission to remain in the U.S. will need to depart prior to the expiration of their authorized parole period or may be placed in removal proceedings.”

The parole program, which allows migrants with U.S. sponsors to enter for humanitarian reasons or significant public benefit, will continue to accept new applications from abroad.

Immigration experts note that many of these migrants have alternative pathways to remain in the United States. Cubans may be eligible for permanent residence under the 1966 Cuban Adjustment Act, while many Haitians and Venezuelans qualify for Temporary Protected Status. All four nationalities can apply for asylum.

The decision comes as immigration remains a top issue for the November 5 presidential election, with Republican candidate Donald Trump criticizing the parole program.

President Biden implemented the program as part of efforts to reduce illegal border crossings, which have decreased in recent months following new border restrictions.

As the situation develops, advocacy groups and policymakers continue to debate the broader implications for U.S. immigration policy and the fate of hundreds of thousands of migrants affected by this decision.

“This policy shift raises significant questions about the future of humanitarian immigration programs,” said Dr. Maria Rodriguez, an immigration policy expert at Georgetown University. “While some migrants have alternative options, others may face uncertain futures.”

The DHS emphasizes that each case will be evaluated individually, considering factors such as family ties, work history, and community integration. As the expiration dates approach, affected migrants are advised to consult with immigration attorneys to explore their options for remaining in the United States legally.

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