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Bomb Attack on Diplomatic Convoy in Pakistan Kills Police Officer, Wounds Three

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Bomb Attack on Diplomatic Convoy in Pakistan Kills Police Officer, Wounds Three

A roadside bomb targeting a convoy of foreign diplomats killed one Pakistani police officer and wounded three others on Sunday in the Swat district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, local officials reported.

The improvised explosive device (IED) detonated as the convoy was passing through Malam Jabba, a popular tourist spot and hill station in the region bordering Afghanistan, known for militant group activity including the Pakistani Taliban.

Swat district police officer Zahidullah Khan confirmed the casualties, stating, “One policeman succumbed to his wounds while three others were wounded. Diplomats were travelling within a police convoy, and the lead police vehicle was impacted.”

The convoy included diplomats from 12 countries: Indonesia, Ethiopia, Portugal, Kazakhstan, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Zimbabwe, Rwanda, Turkmenistan, Vietnam, Iran, Russia, and Tajikistan. All diplomats returned safely to Islamabad following the incident.

The diplomats were in the area to attend a summit organized by the local chamber of commerce and industry, aimed at promoting tourism, handicrafts, and gems.

Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry issued a statement acknowledging the attack on the advance scout police vehicle. “Our sympathies are with the families of the policeman. We honor our law enforcement authorities that remain steadfast in the face of terrorists,” the ministry said.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and President Asif Ali Zardari condemned the attack and paid tribute to the fallen policeman.

The Swat valley has long been a focal point of Islamist militant insurgency. Militant groups in the region have intensified their attacks since late 2022, following the breakdown of a ceasefire agreement with the government.

According to the Interior Ministry, terrorist incidents in Pakistan claimed 930 lives in 2023, mostly security personnel, with approximately 2,000 others wounded.

The attack underscores the ongoing security challenges in Pakistan, particularly in regions bordering Afghanistan. As of Sunday evening, no group had claimed responsibility for the bombing.

The incident occurs amid a surge of militant activities in Pakistan. In August, a series of attacks lasting nearly two days resulted in at least 84 fatalities, according to a report by the Islamabad-based Pak Institute for Peace Studies.

As investigations into the attack continue, the incident is likely to prompt reassessment of security measures for diplomatic missions and foreign visitors in Pakistan’s volatile regions.

dw.com

Israeli Airstrike Kills Hezbollah Leaders Allegedly Planning Another Oct.7-Style Attack on Northern Israel-IDF Says

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Israeli Airstrike Kills Hezbollah Leaders Allegedly Planning Another Oct.7-Style Attack on Northern Israel-IDF Says

Senior Hezbollah leaders killed in an Israel Defense Forces (IDF) airstrike on Friday were reportedly meeting to plan an Oct. 7-style ground invasion of northern Israel, according to officials and sources close to the Iran-backed terror group.

The airstrike, which targeted a high-rise apartment building in the Dahiya area of southern Beirut, killed 16 senior commanders and operatives of Hezbollah’s elite Radwan Force, the IDF said. Among those killed were top leaders Ibrahim Aqil and Ahmed Wahbi.

IDF spokesperson Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari stated, “Aqil and the Radwan Force commanders who we attacked are the commanders who drew up and led the Hezbollah terror group’s plan, to be carried out on the day the order was given, to attack into the northern territory of the State of Israel, what they called ‘The plan to conquer the Galilee.'”

A Hezbollah source told Al-Monitor, a Middle East news outlet, that the group was studying “plans for a ground invasion at the heart of the occupied territories” in northern Israel.

Israeli President Isaac Herzog reiterated these claims during a Sky News broadcast on Sunday, condemning Iran and its proxies. “All of these leaders came together in order to launch the same horrific, horrendous attack that we had on Oct. 7 by Hamas, by burning Israelis, by butchering them, raping their women, abducting and taking hostage people and little babies,” Herzog said.

The airstrike, which Lebanese health officials say left a total of 37 people dead, prompted Hezbollah to fire more than 100 rockets over the border early Sunday. One missile hit a residential building in Kiryat Bialik, wounding at least three people and sending thousands across northern Israel scrambling for shelters.

Israel retaliated with its own rocket barrage, killing at least three people and wounding four others near the Lebanon-Israel border, according to Lebanon’s health ministry.

The conflict between Israel and Hezbollah has intensified following attacks last week that detonated thousands of pagers, radios, and other electronic devices used by members of the terror group. Sources told Axios that these attacks were an attempt to reach “de-escalation through escalation” by destabilizing Hezbollah’s leadership and fighters.

While the United States supports Israel’s right to self-defense, White House National Security spokesman John Kirby told ABC’s “This Week” that it is not in Israel’s “best interest” to force a military escalation. “The tensions are much higher now than they were even just a few days ago,” Kirby said. “We still believe that there can be time and space for a diplomatic solution here and that’s what we’re working on.”

Kirby added, “We’ve been working since the beginning of this conflict, October 8th and on, to try to prevent an escalation, to prevent a broadening of this conflict there in and around Israel, but also in the region.”

The escalating tensions between Israel and Hezbollah have raised concerns about a potential wider conflict in the Middle East. The situation remains volatile as both sides continue to exchange fire and international diplomats work to prevent further escalation.

The alleged plans for an invasion of northern Israel by Hezbollah, if confirmed, would represent a significant escalation in the group’s tactics and ambitions. Such a move would likely draw a severe response from Israel and could potentially involve other regional actors, further destabilizing an already tense situation in the Middle East.

nypost.com

New York Residents Allege Brothel Operating Near Queens Elementary Schools, Demand Action

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New York Residents Allege Brothel Operating Near Queens Elementary Schools, Demand Action

Residents in the Jackson Heights neighborhood of Queens, New York, are voicing outrage over an alleged brothel operating across the street from two public elementary schools, PS 19 and PS 307. The situation has sparked a community campaign to shut down the establishment and address broader concerns about criminal activity in the area.

The alleged brothel is located near the infamous “Market of Sweethearts” strip on Roosevelt Avenue, an area that has gained notoriety for open-air prostitution and the sale of stolen goods. Law enforcement sources suspect potential connections to the Tren de Aragua gang, though this remains unconfirmed.

Maria Gonzales, a local mother, expressed her dismay to The Post on Sunday. “No good,” she said. “The school is just there. C’mon, no good. My husband go and say to them, ‘Not here. Too close, the ninos.’ They say, ‘OK, OK, OK.'” Gonzales added, “Crazy. We need police. Everyone calls, but no police coming.”

The community’s concerns come to light just days after the New York Police Department (NYPD) conducted a raid on a 24-hour prostitution operation nearby on Roosevelt Avenue.

Ileana Martinez, whose two children attend the nearby schools, shared her fears in a statement: “As a mother, we always worry about the safety and welfare of our children. But what we see near Roosevelt Avenue now is terrifying. Hopefully someone will respond to the CEC resolution.”

The resolution, set to be presented to Community Education Council 24 on Tuesday, calls for coordinated action from city schools officials, police, and Mayor Eric Adams to shut down the alleged brothel and address criminal activities in the neighborhood.

“This request aligns with the NYC [Department of Education’s] commitment to ensuring that all students are provided a safe and supportive environment, crucial for fostering their academic success and social-emotional growth,” the resolution states.

Eyewitness accounts describe modifications to the building, including a wooden panel and door at the rear, where alleged sex workers solicit customers. A local resident, identified only as Luis, 67, told reporters, “It’s been there for a while. It used to just be just a bodega and the part where they sell the girls now, they used to sell the flowers.”

The situation is unfolding against the backdrop of a broader migrant crisis in New York City. Since 2022, tens of thousands of migrants have arrived in the city, with some reportedly resorting to shoplifting and prostitution to survive or pay debts to human smugglers.

Queens Democratic district leader Hiram Monserrate has been vocal about the issues plaguing the borough. “Our community is crying out for help,” Monserrate said in a statement. “Rescue Roosevelt Avenue. Protect our children. We do not need backpack giveaways, we don’t need political rhetoric. We need more cops, counselors and a massive intervention for this community.”

Monserrate added, “The NYPD needs to shut this brothel down now. The Roosevelt Avenue Corridor remains lawless and unsafe.”

As of Sunday, the NYPD had not responded to requests for comment on the situation.

The community’s outcry highlights the complex challenges facing New York City as it grapples with the intersection of immigration, crime, and public safety. As residents await action from city officials, the situation remains a flashpoint for debates about law enforcement priorities and community well-being in one of the world’s most diverse urban areas.

Source: nypost.com

Deadly Floods in Chad Kill 503, Affect 1.7million People as Crisis Deepens-UN Reports

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Deadly Floods in Chad Kill 503, Affect 1.7million People as Crisis Deepens-UN Reports

Severe flooding in Chad has resulted in 503 deaths and affected approximately 1.7 million people since July, according to the latest assessment from the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) released Saturday.

The floods have caused widespread destruction across the central African nation. OCHA reports that the disaster has destroyed over 212,000 houses, submerged more than 357,000 hectares of agricultural land, and drowned nearly 70,000 heads of cattle.

Marcelin Kanabe Passale, Chad’s Minister of Water and Energy, informed journalists on Saturday that the flooding has impacted all of the country’s provinces. He issued a stark warning about the potential for further devastation, stating, “The waters of the Logone and Chari rivers have reached a critical height likely to cause obvious serious flooding in the coming days.”

The capital city, N’Djamena, located at the confluence of the Logone and Chari rivers, faces an imminent threat of severe flooding.

Amid growing concerns about water safety, Passale urged residents to treat all water from private wells with chlorine before consumption. He also announced the formation of a flood-monitoring committee to assess risks associated with drinking water pollution and rising river levels.

The United Nations had previously warned in early September about the impact of “torrential rains and severe flooding” in the wider region, particularly in Chad. The international body called for immediate action and increased funding to address the effects of climate change.

This summer has been recorded as the hottest globally, characterized by extreme weather events including record temperatures, heatwaves, drought, and severe flooding in various parts of the world.

Credit: VOA

AC Milan Triumphs in Thrilling Derby della Madonnina, Ends Losing Streak Against Inter, Wins 2-1

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AC Milan Triumphs in Thrilling Derby della Madonnina, Ends Losing Streak Against Inter, Wins 2-1

MILAN  — AC Milan secured a dramatic 2-1 victory over city rivals Inter Milan in the Derby della Madonnina on Sunday, with lifelong Rossoneri fan Matteo Gabbia scoring an 89th-minute winner to end a six-match losing streak in the fixture.

The win at the San Siro provided a much-needed boost for Milan manager Paulo Fonseca, who had been under increasing pressure following a disappointing start to the season. Fonseca, who only joined the club in the summer, made a bold tactical decision by switching to a 4-4-2 formation for this crucial match.

Christian Pulisic gave Milan an early lead in the 10th minute, capitalizing on a mistake by Henrikh Mkhitaryan to drive at the Inter defense and score past goalkeeper Yann Sommer. The goal showcased the American’s impressive form since joining the Italian club.

Inter, the reigning Serie A champions, equalized before the half-hour mark through Federico Dimarco. The wing-back found the bottom corner after being set up by Lautaro Martínez, bringing the game level and shifting momentum in Inter’s favor.

The match remained finely balanced throughout, with both goalkeepers playing crucial roles. Milan’s Mike Maignan made a spectacular fingertip save just before halftime to keep the scores level, while Inter’s Sommer was called into action multiple times in the second half.

Rafael Leão came close to restoring Milan’s lead early in the second half, but his powerful header was tipped over by Sommer. The Swiss goalkeeper was also alert to deny Tijjani Reijnders’ deflected shot.

As the match entered its final stages, both sides had opportunities to secure victory. Martínez tested Maignan with a fierce volley, while Leão saw his effort saved following a rapid Milan counter-attack. Former Chelsea striker Tammy Abraham also came close for Milan, firing wide from a promising position.

Just as the derby seemed destined for a draw, Gabbia rose highest to meet Reijnders’ delivery and power a header into the corner, sending the Milan fans into raptures. The goal was particularly special for Gabbia, a product of Milan’s youth academy and a lifelong supporter of the club.

“This victory means everything to us and our fans,” an elated Gabbia said post-match. “To score the winning goal in the derby is a dream come true for me.”

The result provides a significant boost to Fonseca and AC Milan, who move up to fourth in the Serie A table. For Inter and manager Simone Inzaghi, the defeat ends their unbeaten start to the season and sees them slip to second place behind Juventus.

“We showed great character today,” Fonseca said in the post-match press conference. “This win can be a turning point for our season.”

The derby victory not only ends Milan’s losing streak against their city rivals but also injects new life into their campaign. With the momentum from this win, the Rossoneri will look to build on this performance as they push for a return to the Champions League spots.

Tijjani Reijnders was named Man of the Match for his influential performance in midfield, capped off by providing the assist for Gabbia’s winning goal.

Egypt Warns of Full-Scale Regional War Amid Escalating Israel-Hezbollah Tensions

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Egypt Warns of Full-Scale Regional War Amid Escalating Israel-Hezbollah Tensions

Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty issued a stark warning Sunday about the growing risk of a full-scale regional war as clashes between Israel and Lebanon’s Hezbollah intensify, potentially derailing efforts to broker a ceasefire in Gaza.

Speaking at the United Nations headquarters ahead of the annual summit of world leaders, Abdelatty expressed grave concern over the escalating situation. “There is great concern about… the possibility of an escalation in the region leading to an all-out regional war,” he told AFP, emphasizing that the intensified conflict was impeding ceasefire negotiations.

Despite these challenges, Abdelatty reaffirmed Egypt’s commitment, alongside Qatar and the United States, to securing a truce in Gaza. The three nations have been engaged in months-long negotiations aimed at both achieving a ceasefire and securing the release of hostages held in Gaza.

“All the elements of an agreement are on the table,” Abdelatty stated, attributing the lack of progress to “an absence of political will, especially on the Israeli side.”

The Egyptian diplomat also criticized Israel’s actions, describing them as provocative and blaming them for the escalation with Hezbollah, which is aligned with Hamas. “We are talking to our regional and international partners, including the United States, about the importance of working to stop the escalation and stop the unilateral and provocative policies that Israel is carrying out,” Abdelatty said, warning that a regional war would benefit no one.

These comments followed Abdelatty’s meetings in Washington with U.S. officials, including Amos Hochstein, who is spearheading efforts to mediate a truce between Lebanon and Israel.

Smoke billows from the area of an Israeli air strike on the southern Lebanese village of Khiam near the border with Israel on March 23, 2024, amid ongoing cross-border tensions as fighting continues between Israel and Hamas militants in the Gaza Strip. (Photo by Rabih DAHER / AFP)

Earlier in the week, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi reiterated his country’s commitment to ceasefire efforts during talks with U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken. Blinken emphasized that a ceasefire would be crucial in preventing the violence from spreading across the Middle East.

The conflict, which began with Hamas’s attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, has resulted in over 1,200 Israeli deaths, mostly civilians. According to Israeli military sources, 97 hostages remain held in Gaza.

On the Palestinian side, the Gaza health ministry reports that more than 41,400 people have died in Gaza, the majority being civilians. The United Nations has acknowledged these figures as reliable.

The ongoing violence and escalating tensions between Israel and Hezbollah have raised international concerns about the potential for a wider regional conflict. Egypt’s warning underscores the urgent need for diplomatic efforts to prevent further escalation and secure a lasting ceasefire in Gaza.

As world leaders gather for the UN summit, the situation in the Middle East is expected to be a focal point of discussions, with many countries calling for renewed efforts to find a peaceful resolution to the conflict.

Source: newscentral.africa

Fatal Bus Crash Claims Lives of Three Brazilian American Football Players

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Fatal Bus Crash Claims Lives of Three Brazilian American Football Players

A tragic bus accident on Saturday claimed the lives of three players from the Coritiba Crocodiles, a Brazilian American football team, while en route to a championship game in Rio de Janeiro.

The team, based in Curitiba, southern Brazil, was traveling to compete in the country’s American football championship when their bus overturned. Local authorities reported that in addition to the three fatalities, six other individuals were injured in the crash.

The Coritiba Crocodiles identified the deceased players on social media as Daniel Cross, Lucas Barros, and Lucas Padilha. Barros, a 20-year-old wide receiver, had recently posted about attending the NFL’s inaugural game in Brazil.

In a statement released on Saturday, the team expressed their profound grief: “Our hearts are heavy with grief, and we ask everyone to send their prayers and positive energy. In the face of this tragedy, all our efforts are focused on supporting the team members and their loved ones.”

The scheduled championship game was canceled following the accident. Local authorities have initiated an investigation into the cause of the crash, while the injured passengers are receiving treatment at a nearby hospital.

The incident has sent shockwaves through Brazil’s growing American football community. Another team posted a tribute on social media, saying: “It is with deep regret that we receive the news of the tragic accident involving the Croco de Curitiba team. Among the victims, we mourn the loss of Lucas Barros, a player who has already worn our shirt and who will always be remembered fondly by the American football community in Goiânia.”

This accident highlights the risks associated with team travel in sports, particularly in countries where American football is an emerging sport. The Coritiba Crocodiles, like many teams in Brazil’s American football leagues, often travel long distances for games due to the sport’s growing but still limited presence in the country.

The tragedy has prompted discussions about safety measures for team transportation in Brazilian sports, with calls for stricter regulations and improved infrastructure to prevent similar incidents in the future.

As the investigation continues, the Brazilian American football community has come together in mourning, offering support to the families of the deceased and the Coritiba Crocodiles organization. The incident serves as a somber reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of safety in sports at all levels.

Barcelona Thrashes Villarreal 5-1 to Maintain La Liga Lead

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Barcelona Thrashes Villarreal 5-1 to Maintain La Liga Lead

Barcelona delivered a commanding performance to defeat Villarreal 5-1 in La Liga on Sunday, showcasing their title credentials and bouncing back from their midweek Champions League setback.

Robert Lewandowski and Raphinha each netted twice, while Pablo Torre contributed a goal to secure the away victory. Ayoze Perez scored Villarreal’s consolation.

The win keeps Xavi Hernandez’s side atop La Liga with 18 points, four clear of Real Madrid and five ahead of Atletico Madrid.

Villarreal threatened early when Perez had a goal disallowed for offside. Barcelona responded swiftly, with Lamine Yamal hitting the post before Lewandowski opened the scoring in the 22nd minute, converting Torre’s clever pass.

The Polish striker doubled Barcelona’s lead in the 32nd minute. Perez pulled one back for Villarreal three minutes later, briefly reigniting the home side’s hopes.

Barcelona faced a setback just before halftime when goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen was stretchered off with an injury. Inaki Pena replaced him, making his first league appearance since February.

The visitors extended their lead after the break when Torre’s shot deflected in off Logan Costa in the 55th minute. Lewandowski then missed a penalty, hitting the post after Yamal was fouled in the box.

However, Raphinha soon put the game beyond doubt with two goals in quick succession. His first came in the 73rd minute with a powerful strike from the center of the penalty area. Five minutes later, he volleyed home from Yamal’s assist to complete the rout.

“We showed great character today, especially after the disappointment in Monaco,” Xavi said post-match. “This performance proves our strength and depth.”

Villarreal manager Marcelino Garcia Toral lamented his team’s defensive lapses: “We started well, but Barcelona’s quality was overwhelming. We need to improve quickly.”

The result leaves Villarreal in 12th place, while Barcelona continues their unbeaten run in La Liga, sending a strong message to their title rivals.

Manchester City Salvages 2-2 Draw Against 10-Man Arsenal with Late Equalizer

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Manchester City Salvages 2-2 Draw Against 10-Man Arsenal with Late Equalizer

Manchester City maintained their 33-match unbeaten home Premier League run with a dramatic 2-2 draw against 10-man Arsenal at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday.

John Stones scored the equalizer for City in the 98th minute, rescuing a point for the hosts after Arsenal had taken the lead despite playing with 10 men for the entire second half.

Erling Haaland opened the scoring for City in the 8th minute, notching his 100th goal for the club. Arsenal equalized through Riccardo Calafiori’s curling shot and took the lead when Gabriel headed in from a corner.

Arsenal’s Leandro Trossard received a second yellow card just before halftime, reducing the visitors to 10 men. Despite the numerical advantage, City struggled to break down Arsenal’s defense until Stones’ late intervention.

The draw keeps Manchester City at the top of the Premier League table, while Arsenal remains in contention despite the setback.

City dominated possession in the second half but faced strong resistance from Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya, who made several crucial saves.

The result maintains City’s four-year grip on the Premier League title, though 33 matches remain for other teams to challenge their supremacy.

Building Collapse in Naples Province Kills 2 Siblings, Traps 2 Women

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Building Collapse in Naples Province Kills 2 Siblings, Traps 2 Women

A two-story building collapsed early Sunday in Saviano, a town in the southern Italian province of Naples, killing two young siblings and trapping their mother and another woman in the rubble, firefighters reported.

The Italian fire service stated on their official Telegram channel that a gas explosion likely caused the collapse.

Rescue workers recovered the bodies of a 6-year-old boy and a 4-year-old girl from the debris. Their 2-year-old brother was found alive, while their father was hospitalized in Naples with serious injuries.

Luca Cari, a spokesman for the firefighters, said rescuers were proceeding cautiously to avoid further collapses as they searched for the two trapped women.

Saviano Mayor Vincenzo Simonelli, present at the scene, described the building as “crumpled up on itself” and called the situation “very serious.”

According to media reports, a gas leak may have triggered an explosion on the second floor, causing it to collapse onto the lower floor.

Firefighters continue their efforts to locate and rescue the trapped women as investigations into the cause of the collapse are ongoing.

Source: apnews.com

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