What Happened?

The attack occurred in the early hours of New Year’s Day at approximately 3:15 AM, at the intersection of Canal and Bourbon Street in New Orleans’ French Quarter. Witnesses reported seeing a white Ford pickup truck driving at high speed into the crowd. The driver later exited the vehicle and reportedly fired a gun, adding to the chaos.

Law enforcement described the attack as deliberate. New Orleans Police Superintendent Anne Kirkpatrick stated, “It was very intentional behavior. This man was trying to run over as many people as he possibly could. He was hellbent on creating the carnage and the damage that he did.”

Who Was Shamsud-Din Jabbar?

Shamsud-Din Jabbar is a 42 year old man from Texas. He drove a rental truck into Louisiana and carried out the attack. Jabbar was killed in an exchange of gunfire with police at the scene.

The FBI has classified the incident as a terrorist act. They suspect Jabbar did not act alone and are actively searching for accomplices. Several items found during the investigation include: Four improvised explosive devices were discovered in the truck along with the weapons like a long gun was recovered. The truck displayed a black flag associated with the Islamic State group.

The FBI reported that Jabbar, a former real estate agent and military veteran, who had a history of financial disparity and personal challenges. Jabbar served in the US Army from 2007 to 2015, he was even deployed into Afghanistan, and continued in the Army Reserve until 2020, according to media reports.

Media reports also revealed that Jabbar’s personal life was not in good state. He was divorced in 2022, due to severe financial difficulties. His real estate business reportedly lost significant money, and he was burdened with debt. His brother described him as a caring person, but said that Jabbar’s actions were “not representative of Islam” and pointed to potential radicalisation.

Authorities are investigating Jabbar’s Airbnb rental for further threats or evidence. Assistant Special Agent Alethea Duncan from the FBI’s New Orleans field office confirmed that the discovery of explosive devices has escalated concerns over the potential for further attacks.

Both CBS News and CNN reported witness accounts of the gunfire during the attack. The deliberate nature of the act, coupled with the presence of explosives, highlights the severity of the incident, which has left the city and its residents in mourning.

The FBI and local authorities are continuing their investigations to determine the full extent of Jabbar’s plans and any affiliations he may have had with terrorist organizations. Further updates are expected in the coming days.

The New York Police Department (NYPD) has not yet released specific details about the incident or the condition of those injured. The circumstances surrounding the shooting remain unclear, and authorities are actively investigating.

#BREAKING: MASS SHOOTING IN NEW YORK CITY

At least 11 people have been shot in Queens, NY at Amazura Night Club

This is still an ACTIVE situation. pic.twitter.com/HFYY0Cb3qZ

— Nick Sortor (@nicksortor) January 2, 2025

15 Killed In Truck Attack

On the same day, a separate tragedy unfolded in New Orleans, where a pickup truck was driven into a crowd of New Year’s revelers, killing 15 people. The driver, identified as Shamsud-Din Jabbar, a 42-year-old U.S. citizen from Texas and an Army veteran, had posted alarming videos on social media hours before the attack. In the posts, he expressed admiration for the Islamic State group and revealed intentions to kill.

FBI Investigation

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is treating the New Orleans attack as an act of terrorism. Officials believe Jabbar may not have acted alone and are investigating potential links to terrorist organizations.

Jabbar allegedly bypassed a police blockade before driving into the crowd. Law enforcement shot and killed him at the scene. The FBI continues to work on uncovering any connections Jabbar may have had to extremist groups.

Since 1991, Russia has supplied gas to Europe through ports and pipelines under an agreement that lasted for 30 years. But Ukraine’s decision has ended this system, leaving many European countries worried. While some countries have reduced how much gas they buy from Russia after its invasion of Ukraine, nations like Slovakia and Austria still rely heavily on it. This reliance brings Russia around USD 5.2 billion in yearly earnings.

Turmoil in Europe

Austria acknowledged the situation, stating, “We have made some preparations, but this is a major crisis. Winter is here, and challenges are inevitable. Gas prices are expected to rise unpredictably by 2025.” Meanwhile, Slovakian Prime Minister Robert Fico said that while Russia may not be significantly affected, Ukraine’s announcement will have a considerable impact on European nations.

Russian gas passes through Slovakia, which earns revenue from this transit. From there, the gas is supplied to Austria, Hungary, and Italy. With the route now blocked, Slovakia faces increased difficulties. Fico has even threatened to cut off electricity supply to Ukraine. For countries like Slovakia that still need gas from Russia, alternative routes will need to be used, which will increase costs.

On the other hand, Russia is unlikely to face substantial losses. It can continue sending gas to Hungary, Turkey, and Serbia through the TurkStream pipeline across the Black Sea.

Dependence of European Nations on Russian gas

Several European countries, including Slovakia, Austria, and Moldova, rely heavily on gas imports from Russia. While nations like the U.S. and Qatar provide some assistance, their supply falls short of meeting the full demand.

Gas Imports by Key Nations

• Germany: 56 billion cubic meters (BCM)
• Italy: 29 BCM
• Netherlands: 13 BCM
• France and Poland: 10 BCM each

Before sanctions, these countries imported significant amounts of gas from Russia. By 2021, Russia supplied 40% of the European Union’s natural gas needs, with Germany being the largest importer. However, by August 2022, this share dropped to approximately 17%, according to EU data.

Uses of Russian Gas:

• Electricity generation via gas-powered stations.
• Operation of factories.
• Heating homes during winter.
• Cooking in households.

In Moldova, the halt in gas supply has led to a disruption in hot water services in Transnistria. The government has issued advice to residents on how to cope with the cold:

• Wear warm clothes indoors.
• Gather all family members in one room to conserve heat.
• Cover windows with thick blankets to prevent heat loss.

Additionally, residents are urged to stop using gas and rely on electric heaters for warmth. This guidance reflects the severity of the energy crisis in the region.

Earlier on Wednesday, the US Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) stated that it does not believe Shamsud Din Jabbar, the car driver who carried out the New Orleans attack, was “solely responsible” for the ‘act of terrorism’. Jabbar rammed his car into a crowd on Bourbon Street during New Year’s celebrations, killing 10 people and injuring 35 others.

Biden confirms probe into ‘possible connection’ between New Orleans attack and Las Vegas Cybertruck explosion

Concerned about the attack and the safety of citizens, United States President Joe Biden expressed his thoughts on X (formerly Twitter), stating that the FBI is leading the investigation and treating the incident as an act of terrorism. He assured that he would continue to receive updates throughout the day and provide further information as it becomes available.

He extended his condolences to the victims and their families, emphasizing that they were simply trying to celebrate the holiday. The President condemned the violence, asserting that there is no justification for such acts, and affirmed that any attack on the nation’s communities would not be tolerated.

“I have been continually briefed since early this morning regarding the horrific incident that occurred in New Orleans overnight. The FBI is taking the lead in the investigation and is investigating this incident as an act of terrorism. I will continue to receive updates throughout the day, and I will have more to say as we have further information to share. My heart goes out to the victims and their families who were simply trying to celebrate the holiday. There is no justification for violence of any kind, and we will not tolerate any attack on any of our nation’s communities,” reads United States President Joe Biden’s post.

Driver in New Orleans ‘act of terrorism’ not….; here’s what the FBI said

The US Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) stated on Wednesday (local time) that it does not believe Shamsud Din Jabbar, the driver behind the New Orleans attack, was “solely responsible” for the act of terrorism. “The subject has been identified as 42-year-old Shamsud-Din Jabbar, a U.S. citizen from Texas. He was driving a Ford pickup truck, which appears to have been rented, and we are working to confirm how the subject came into possession of the vehicle,” the FBI in an official release said.

FBI Statement on the Attack in New Orleans https://t.co/Wt2I0kj9fV

The FBI has set up a digital tip line, and we ask anyone with information or video of the incident to submit them to https://t.co/LLKUGwHYhY or call 1-800-CALL-FBI.

— FBI (@FBI) January 1, 2025

The suspect was found with an ISIS flag and multiple suspected explosive devices in the car while carrying out the attack, which the FBI has classified as “an act of terrorism.” FBI said, “Weapons and a potential IED were located in the subject’s vehicle. Other potential IEDs were also located in the French Quarter. The FBI’s special agent bomb technicians are working with our law enforcement partners to determine if any of these devices are viable, and they will work to render those devices safe.”

Earlier, President-elect Donald Trump reignited the debate over immigration and crime following the car-ramming incident, accusing Democrats of dismissing his warnings about criminal migration into the US. In a post on Truth Social, Trump remarked,”When I said that the criminals coming in are far worse than the criminals we have in our country, that statement was constantly refuted by Democrats and the Fake News Media, but it turned out to be true. The crime rate in our country is at a level that nobody has ever seen before. Our hearts are with all of the innocent victims and their loved ones, including the brave officers of the New Orleans Police Department. The Trump Administration will fully support the City of New Orleans as they investigate and recover from this act of pure evil!.”

Recently, the Baloch Liberation Front (BLF) released a poster that caused panic among Pakistan’s leadership, including Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, the ISI, and the military. The poster shows the rebels armed with modern and powerful weapons, some even more advanced than what Pakistan’s security forces have. These include the M16A4 rifle, M240B machine gun, RPG-7 launcher, Bulgarian OGi-7MA projectiles, and the PKM machine gun. The poster boldly states their commitment to continue fighting until they achieve victory. Here’s a closer look at these weapons:

M16A4 Rifle

Manufactured in the United States, the M16A4 has been a key weapon for the U.S. Marine Corps since 2003. Weighing 3.3 kilograms and measuring 100 centimeters in length, this rifle is equipped with a 20-30 round magazine. It can fire 700-950 rounds per minute, using .223-caliber bullets, which are highly lethal.

M240B Machine Gun

Another powerful American weapon, the M240B machine gun, is commonly referred to as “M240 Bravo” or simply “240.” It operates on gas and uses 7.62 mm NATO cartridges. Weighing 12.5 kilograms, it can fire 500-950 rounds per minute with a range of up to 2 kilometers. The weapon can be mounted on tripods, vehicles, aircraft, ships, and even small boats, making it extremely versatile.

RPG-7 Launcher

Developed by Russia, the RPG-7 is a hand-held anti-tank grenade launcher. It can be launched from the shoulder and was first used by the Soviet Union in 1961. Despite its age, many armies worldwide still rely on it due to its devastating payload, capable of causing massive destruction in seconds.

Bulgarian OGi-7MA projectiles

Bulgarian OGi-7MA projectiles are advanced variants of rocket-propelled grenades (RPGs) designed for enhanced precision and destructive power. Manufactured in Bulgaria, these projectiles are compatible with the widely used RPG-7 launcher, making them a popular choice among insurgent groups and militaries alike.

PKM machine gun

PKM machine gun, on the other hand, is a Soviet-designed general-purpose machine gun renowned for its durability, versatility, and ease of use. Introduced in the 1960s, the PKM has become a staple in armed conflicts worldwide. It uses 7.62×54mmR cartridges, which provide both long-range accuracy and stopping power. The weapon is lightweight for its class, making it ideal for infantry use, yet it can also be mounted on vehicles or tripods for sustained fire.

The poster released by the Baloch Liberation Front, featuring these advanced weapons, has put Pakistan’s military and government in a tough spot.

Big twist in Pakistan-Afghanistan conflict as Russia steps in; why is Putin feeling threatened?

Earlier on December 29, Maria Zakharova, the spokesperson for the Russian Foreign Ministry, expressed Moscow’s concern over escalating tensions along the Pakistan-Afghanistan border and called for restraint from both sides. Russia’s unexpected intervention in the Pakistan-Afghanistan conflict marks a significant turn of events, sparking growing concerns about what is causing Putin to feel increasingly threatened by the unfolding situation.

According to the Russian news agency TASS, Maria Zakharova, spokesperson for the Russian Foreign Ministry, expressed concern over the escalating tensions along the Pakistan-Afghanistan border, highlighting that both military personnel and civilians are being affected by the conflict. She urged all parties to exercise restraint and pursue constructive dialogue to resolve their differences peacefully.

“Moscow is concerned over the escalation of tensions on the Pakistani-Afghan border, where not only the military but also civilians perish in shootouts,” Zakharova was quoted as saying, according to the Russian news agency TASS. Furthermore, she said, “We are calling on the sides involved to show restraint and engage in constructive dialogue, aiming to peacefully resolve all differences.”

The statement comes in the wake of a series of violent clashes between Pakistan and Afghanistan. Tensions escalated earlier this month after Pakistani airstrikes hit a refugee camp in Afghanistan’s Paktika Province. As per the Taliban, the strikes resulted in 46 fatalities, including women and children.

In what appeared to be a retaliatory move, the Taliban attacked Pakistani border posts in the Upper Kurram district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa on Saturday. Pakistani media reported that the assault claimed the life of one soldier and left 11 others injured.

In addition, tensions between Pakistan and the Afghan Taliban have been building for some time, fuelled by the ongoing presence of TTP militants in Afghanistan. While Pakistan accuses the Afghan Taliban of harbouring these militants, the Taliban insists it is not collaborating with the group.

Pakistan has repeatedly expressed concerns over the use of Afghan soil by militants for cross-border attacks, particularly in regions like Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif addressed the issue last week, urging the Afghan government to take decisive action against the TTP, emphasising that attacks from Afghan soil were a “red line” for Pakistan. He also stated that while Pakistan is willing to engage in talks with Kabul, dialogue cannot occur alongside ongoing attacks.

Senior Levies officer said that Afghan nationals did not have legal travel documents and were subsequently deported at the Pakistan-Afghanistan border crossing at Baracha in Chagai. He said Pakistan had bolstered security in its border areas with Afghanistan to stop illegal crossings.

According to officials, Levies and Frontier Corps personnel conducted 10 joint operations in 2024, which led to the arrest of 3826 Afghan citizens, which included 2,779 men, 338 women and 290 children, from various border areas of Chagai district, Dawn reported.

Following investigation, these Afghan families, who had illegally arrived in Pakistan, were sent back to Afghanistan. Levies officials said Pakistan is monitoring its border with Afghanistan to fulfil its commitment to stop illegal entries, maintaining law and order, and combating illegal activities.

Previously, Pakistan implemented a “one-document regime” system for border crossings between the two nations, under which all movement at crossing points like Chaman be conducted using passports and valid visas, according to Dawn report.
In order to implement this decision, the government created passport offices in Chaman and Qila Abdullah districts. Under this system, around 20,000 people have received passports, with no fee charged for the service.

The army released footage showing the terrorists taking weapons to a white van parked outside a building just before Tuesday’s strike.

The IDF is operating in accordance with the ceasefire understandings between Israel and Lebanon. The IDF remains deployed in southern Lebanon and will operate against any threat to the State of Israel and its citizens.

Under the terms of a two-month ceasefire that went into effect on November 27, Hezbollah is supposed to withdraw its armed presence from areas of southern Lebanon south of the Litani River.

Israeli forces will also withdraw from southern Lebanon in stages. The Lebanese Armed Forces are to be deployed there first, including along the 120 km border with Israel, with monitors from the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon.

According to United Nations Security Council Resolution 1701, which ended the 2006 Second Lebanon War, Hezbollah is forbidden from operating in southern Lebanon south of the Litani River.

Bozorgzadeh said the construction of the Pashdan dam will not only create the problem of drinking water for lakhs of people but it will also be a threat to the environment in the lower parts of the region. 

He said the construction of the dam is reducing the flow of Harirud river and affecting its flow in the province of Khorasan Razavi, where over two million people are solely dependent on the river for drinking water.

While referring to economic, social and cultural relations between Mashhad and Herat , he said that the country believes people who live under watershed should follow a single policy and any deliberate or pressure would impact everyone who is living in watershed. 

He stated that Iran has raised its objections through all diplomatic channels with the Taliban regarding the negative impact of the construction of the Pashdan Dam on the Harirud River. Iran has also urged the Taliban to work toward a joint solution to the issue. Isa Bozorgzadeh emphasized that they believe the water resources of the Harirud River should not be used for unilateral purposes, as this could affect both upstream and downstream countries.

Isa Bozorgzadeh stated that Afghanistan will take necessary steps to maintain good relations with its neighbors under international law and ensure the uninterrupted flow of upstream resources.

A few days ago, the Taliban was involved in a skirmish with Pakistan after the latter conducted cross-border airstrikes.

Kyiv said this is the first instance when Ukrainian forces shot down a Russian plane with a drone boat. A video released by Ukraine’s Ministry of Defence and intelligence showed missiles being fired from a drone boat and striking the helicopter which crashes to the ground. The Mi-8 helicopter is seen releasing releasing infrared flares to avoid heat-seeking missiles, the video shows.

According to western experts, Ukraine drone boats, which fire R-73 (AA-11 Archer) aka the Sea Dragon missiles, have inflicted substantial damage on Russian ships in the Black Sea region, while also posing a major threat to Russian helicopters and warplanes.

Ukraine began using drone boats to fire air-to-air missiles at Russian targets since May 2024.

How powerful are R-73 missiles?

The drones fire the R-73, a short-range air-to-air missile, which also serves as a surface-to-air weapon, used to target Russian aircraft. The missile features a high-off-boresight (HOBS) seeker, which can swivel a considerable distance in any direction, and was previously adapted for surface launch.

Ukraine has a large stockpile of R-73s, which are also used by the Ukrainian Air Force’s MiG-29 and Su-27 fighter jets. Kyiv also has a stockpile of older R-60 missiles that can also be adapted for launch from drone boats.

Notably, the Yemen’s Houthi rebels have also used the R-73 to target aircraft.

Russia-Ukraine war

The Russia-Ukraine war, which erupted in February 2022, has witnessed a rapid escalation in recent months with Russian President Vladimir Putin recently challenging the United States and other Western nations for a ‘missile duel’, and suggesting a direct test to assess the effectiveness of Russia’s Oreshnik hypersonic missile against advanced air and missile defence systems in Ukrainian capital Kyiv.

Under Pakistani law, Muslim are forbidden to consume alcohol, but it is still available for sale and consumption to non-Muslims and foreigners, who need a special permission for the privilege. But did you know who dominates highly-regulated Pakistan’s liquor business?

Its the Bhandara family, a Parsi family who acquired the Murree Brewery– one of the oldest breweries in Asia– from the British in 1947 when India and Pakistan were freed from colonial yoke. Isphanyar Bhandara, a business tycoon and politician, now runs Murree Brewery, Pakistan’s largest liquor manufacturing company.

Under Isphanyar, Murree Brewery has thrived despite strict regulations for alcohol production and consumption prevalent in Pakistan. Bhandara says his company focusses on quality and uses only the best raw materials to make alcohol, apart from also making non-alcoholic beverages such as fruit juices, which are exported across the world.

Murree Brewery is especially famous for its beer which is brewed using barley imported from Australia, apart from its single-malt Whiskey and vodka, which are also quite popular. “It is all about quality. We make sure too use only the best (raw materials),” says Bhandara.

The company also makes packaged drinking water.

Murree Beer was famous in India

Notably, once upon a time Murree Beer was sold in India, especially in Indian restaurants, but this enterprise came to a halt in 2004, However, in 2013, a Bengaluru-based entrepreneur opened a Murree Brewery franchise, for brewing, bottling and marketing of the beer in India.

The success of Murree Brewery under Isphanyar Bhandara is commendable due to the fact that Pakistan liquor business is strictly regulated and consumption of alcohol is a punishable crime for Muslim citizens. As such, the company has put up a disclaimer on its website, stating that under the country’s law, Muslims of Pakistan are prohibited from drinking alcohol, while non-Muslims and foreigners require permission.

Who is Isphanyar Bhandara?

Isphanyar Bhandara is a businessman and a politician and apart from running a very successful liquor business, he is also a member of the Pakistan National Assembly, while his father served as a Central minister under the Zia-ul-Haq regime in the 1980s and was an MP when Pakistan was ruled by Pervez Musharraf.

The Bhandara family is one of the most affluent in Pakistan, but Parsis, who played a major role in nation-building, especially in cities like Karachu, have waned over time. According to Ishphanyar, around 20,000-25,000 Parsis lived in Pakistan when the country was carved out of erstwhile British India in 1947, but the numbed has gradually declined over the decades, and currently there are less than 1,000 of them residing in the country.

According to Ishphanyar, most of Pakistan’s Parsi population are in the elderly age groups because a majority of Parsi families have migrated to other countries due to various reasons, including economic, socio-political and law and order.

Ishphanyar aunt, Bapsi Sidhwa, famous novelist, Bapsi Sidhwa, is one such example who migrated from Pakistan to the United States, where she passed away on December 25 last year. Bapsi’s acclaimed novel Ice Candy Man was made into a feature film called ‘Earth’ by Indian director Deepa Mehta in 1998.

‘India, Pakistan must work for common good, open borders for trade’

Like many Pakistani companies, Isphanyar Bhandara imports raw materials and machinery from India for his liquor business, but the imports happen via Dubai, which makes them more expensive. Bhandara has been lobbying to open the Wagah border in Punjab for trade, urging both countries to put their issues aside and work for the good of their citizens.

“We can disagree on Kashmir and other issues, and neither India nor Pakistan has to give up their position on these matters. But the respective governments should work for the welfare of common people,” he says, adding that more business will benefit the underprivileged, especially in Pakistan.

The groundbreaking technology, jointly developed by China’s state-owned China Mobile Communications Group, and the People’s Liberation Army (PLA), aims to build the largest unmanned army on the planet, consisting intelligent war machines, including drones, robot dogs, and other forms of military robots driven by artificial intelligence (AI).

The deployment of the 5G mobile base station, the first in the world is led by a senior engineer of the Chinese army and marks a major push towards China’s goal of building the world’s largest unmanned army, experts said.

China 5G mobile base capabilities

According to details, China’s state-of-the-art 5G mobile base has been built as an all-terrain platform, featuring a small antenna to ensure it does not collide with buildings and trees while operating urban or forest areas.

The mobile base will have drones which will fly in turns, acting as an aerial base station, and one drone will hand the command to another if its about to run out of battery. The drone will then land on the vehicle’s roof to recharge itself while the other drone carries is operational.

The platform will reportedly have around three to four such drones at all times.

As per details revealed in the Telecommunication Science — a peer-review journal sponsored by the China Institute of Communications, the Chinese Army has successfully tested the system under multiple scenarios and the platform has performed flawlessly even when the soldiers are moving at high speeds of up to 80 kmph in complex terrains such as mountains or cities.

According to the paper published in the Chinese journal on December 17, the 5G mobile base station provides connectivity at 10 gigabits per second at latency of 15 m/s, even if there is electromagnetic interference from the enemy.

Military experts believe that China is engaged in building the largest unmanned army on Earth, that includes powerful military drones, robot dogs, and other unmanned combat platforms. Additionally, Beijing’s progress has also cleared the way for large-scale use of these AI-based war machines.

TYTAN Technologies has manufactured a drone specifically designed to engage with unmanned aerial vehicles, like the ones influenced by Iranian Shahed designs, as well as different types of surveillance systems. Remarkably, it can reach high speeds of nearly 300 km/h and has a coverage area of about 20 kilometers. This makes it perfect for prompt and precise assignments.

Watch video of drone trial:

An interceptor drone from the German company TYTAN Technologies during testing in Ukraine. The drone is using AI for aiming and is capable of reaching speeds of 300 km/h and covering a distance of 20 kilometers. pic.twitter.com/NCQ8JOczMD

— △ (@TheDeadDistrict) December 29, 2024

Ukraine shows off new ‘rocket-drone‘ in bid to boost long-range strikes

In another development, Ukraine showed off a new locally-produced “rocket-drone” which it said could reach targets 700 km (430 miles) away – about twice the longest range attributed to missiles supplied by Western allies.

The unmanned craft, called “Peklo” – which means hell in Ukrainian – is the second such “rocket-drone” unveiled by Kyiv as it tries to increase its ability to strike deep into Russia, which invaded 33 months ago.
The drones could reach speeds of 700 kph (430 mph), a representative from Ukraine’s state arms manufacturer Ukroboronprom (Ukrainian Defense Industry) told reporters at a ceremony where they were officially handed over to the armed forces.

The drones were more than a metre long (3 feet), with small wings on either side and two tail fins. US-supplied ATACMS missiles have a declared range of just over 300 km (186 miles).

Iran designed Russian drone causing damage to Ukraine

Designed by Iran, the Shahed 136 drone is a small yet potent weapon in Russia’s arsenal, causing distress for Ukraine. Costing around US $20,000 per unit, the drone can travel up to 600 miles. It can also be used to deliver devastating payloads to critical Ukrainian infrastructure. The low-cost but highly effective unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) have caused substantial damage to Ukraine in the war against Russia.

(With inputs from agencies)

India an ‘important neighbour’

Commenting on the present state of India-Bangladesh relations, General Waker-Uz-Zaman stressed that the two countries have a “give and take relationship” which must be based on fairness and equality, and Dhaka must also ensure to maintain good ties with New Delhi based on these principles.

“India is an important neighbour. We are dependent on India in many ways. And India is getting facilities from us too. A large number of their people are working in Bangladesh, formally and informally. Many people go for medical treatment to India from here. We buy a lot of goods from them. So India has a lot of interests in Bangladesh’s stability. This is a give-and-take relationship,” Bangladesh’s Chief of Army staff said.

Ties must be based on fairness, equality

General Zaman said that India-Bangladesh relations must be based on fairness and the Bangladeshi citizens should not feel that New Delhi is “dominating” the balance.

“This must be based on fairness. Any country will want to get benefits from the other. There is nothing wrong in that. If we want extract our benefits, then we are to blame too. We must look into these matters. We have to maintain good relations based on equality. The people in no way should feel India is dominating over us, which goes against our interests. People should not feel this in any way,” he stated.

India, Bangladesh should protect each other’s strategic interests

Asked about India seeking cooperation from Bangladesh to ensure security in northeast India, the Army chief assured that Bangladesh will not do anything that goes against the strategic interests of India and expect the same from New Delhi, adding that both nations should after their interests with equal importance.

“See, the thing is that we will not do anything with our neighbour that goes against their strategic interests. At the same time, we will expect that our neighbour does nothing that is contrary to our interests. When we look after their interests, they will look after our interests with equal importance,” General Zaman said.

The Bangladesh Army Chief noted that India-Bangladesh relations must be on equal footing. “Unrest will not be created in the Chittagong Hill Tracts. The stability along the Myanmar border will not be disrupted either. They will not kill our people along the borders. We will get our fair share of water. There is no problem with this. Let the relations be on equal footing,” he said.

‘Historic’ mass movement led to Hasina’s fall

Asked about the last year’s student protests which snowballed into a mass movement that toppled the Sheikh Hasina regime, General Waker-Uz-Zaman called the event “historic”, and noted that Bangladeshis are now eagerly awaiting a free, fair, and peaceful election in the country after decades.

General Zaman said the Muhammad Yunus-led interim government is working towards that main objective of conducting an election in Bangladesh, and assured that the Army will cooperate fully in implementing the election framework drawn up by the interim govt.

India-Bangladesh relations at all-time low

India-Bangladesh relations have hit an all-time low after the ouster of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, and an interim government led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, coming to the helm in Dhaka.

Bangladesh has witnessed widespread communal violence against minorities, especially Hindus, which has soured Dhaka’s ties with New Delhi, with the latter accusing the Yunus-led interim government of not doing enough, and turning a blind eye to the atrocities perpetrated by radical Islamist elements against the minority Hindu community in the country.

Additionally, apart from moving away from India, Bangladesh has started building closer ties, including defence, strategic, and economic, with New Delhi’s rivals, Pakistan and China.

(With inputs from agencies)

China Plan to Take Over Taiwan

Calling Taiwan is an integral part of its territory, China claims the self-governed island of Taiwan as part of its mainland and promotes the “One China” policy. Under his third five-year term, President Xi Jinping has accelerated efforts to reunify Taiwan with China, making it a key military and diplomatic priority in recent years.

On the foreign policy front, Xi reiterated China’s commitment to promoting reforms in global governance and contributing to world peace and stability. He said, “In a world of both change and turmoil, China, as a responsible major nation, is actively advancing global governance reforms and strengthening solidarity and cooperation among the Global South.”

China’s New Year Message

In his New Year message, Xi said that one of the main objectives of his government is to reassure the Chinese public about the state of the economy, which has slowed significantly post-COVID-19. This slowdown has resulted in the collapse of the lucrative real estate sector and widespread business closures across the country, leading to job losses for many people.

Xi stated that China’s economy has improved. He also expressed optimism that in 2024, the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) is expected to surpass 130 trillion yuan (approximately 18.08 trillion USD). He also highlighted that grain production has exceeded 700 million tons.

Azizi’s journey began in 1988, when he left Afghanistan, seeking a better life for himself and his family amid the devastating backdrop of the Afghan-Soviet war. By 1989, he established Azizi Group as a refugee in Dubai. At the time, Afghanistan was engulfed in conflict, and the country’s future seemed uncertain. Mirwaiz, however, was determined to secure a prosperous life for his family in a foreign land.

Mirwaiz Azizi’s journey

According to reports, Mirwais Azizi first settled in Uzbekistan, where he launched a textile manufacturing business. Driven by ambition, he expanded into the tobacco industry, starting in Bulgaria and later venturing into the Russian Commonwealth countries. After relocating to the UAE, he shifted his focus to the oil and gas sector.

Mirwais went on to establish Azizi Bank, which quickly became the largest and most robust commercial financial institution in Afghanistan. To further solidify his presence, Azizi Group acquired Al Bakhtar Bank, one of Afghanistan’s fastest-growing financial institutions.

In 2007, Mirwais founded Azizi Developments. The company began selling off-plan properties in Dubai in 2008, though it faced setbacks due to the global financial crisis. However, by 2013, Azizi Developments resumed construction on its projects and achieved significant success. Today, with a portfolio valued at USD 12 billion and more than 200 ongoing projects, it has become one of the most influential private real estate developers in the UAE.

Despite his success, Mirwais has remained committed to supporting Afghanistan. Through philanthropy, he has created 5,000 new jobs, contributed to infrastructure rebuilding, and helped develop 10,000 homes and commercial spaces.

Dubai’s leading property developers

Over the years, Azizi Group has expanded its reach across various sectors, including finance, investment, real estate, and hospitality. Today, the group encompasses multiple companies, such as Azizi Investment, Azizi Development, Azizi Bank, Azizi Hospitality, and Azizi Foundation. Among them, Azizi Development has become one of Dubai’s leading property developers, managing projects worth over Rs. 100,000 crores.

According to Devex, Azizi Group’s turnover stands at Rs. 3,400 crores, a massive growth from its humble beginnings. Mirwaiz initially started his venture with just USD 700 (approximately Rs. 58,000), showcasing his incredible journey from a refugee to a billionaire.

China has not officially confirmed the flight of the KJ-3000, but this development has excited military experts. The KJ-3000 is based on the People’s Liberation Army Air Force’s Y-20 transport aircraft and is the latest addition to China’s arsenal of early warning planes.

Features of KJ-3000

• The KJ-3000 is an electronic surveillance aircraft designed to gather critical intelligence
• The KJ-3000 conducts electronic warfare and provides situational awareness for any large Chinese military force.
• No other air force in the world uses such a combination.
• China has shared very little information about the KJ-3000 so far. Based on blurry images of the aircraft, it can be speculated that it has a large rotodome and its tail is raised.
• Rotodome is a disc-shaped rotating radome that provides 360-degree coverage, allowing for target detection and tracking.
• Some experts speculate that the bulge at the tail of the aircraft may be related to the integration of advanced communication systems.
• The aircraft is equipped with domestically produced WS-20 high-bypass turbofan engines, which are estimated to generate a thrust of around 31,000 pounds.

America and Japan will face increased difficulties

This massive aerial machine could dominate the skies over the Taiwan Strait. It will also keep a close eye on American, Japanese, or other allied forces attempting to complicate China’s potential attack on Taiwan. While the US and several other modern armies have such aircraft, none are as large as the KJ-3000.

Iraq’s Golden Era

Iraq was once the center of the Abbasid Caliphate and a hub of knowledge until the 15th century. It flourished in trade, culture, and innovation, becoming a beacon of progress in education and technology. Baghdad, its capital, was the most prosperous and powerful city in the Middle East. Iraq’s GDP and per capita income outshone all other Middle Eastern nations, and religious extremism had little presence during that time.

The Ottoman Era and Decline

From 1534 to 1918, Iraq was part of the Ottoman Empire. Its decline began after World War I, when the British defeated the Ottomans and captured Baghdad. In 1921, the British appointed Faisal, son of Sharif Hussein of Mecca, as Iraq’s first king, initiating a period of unrest and resistance. Iraq gained formal independence in 1932 but suffered economic setbacks due to World War II when Britain again occupied the country.

The Rise of Saddam Hussein

After the British left, political instability continued. In 1962, Brigadier Abdul Karim Qasim overthrew the monarchy, but internal conflicts persisted. Saddam Hussein emerged as a key figure and, after years of maneuvering, became Iraq’s president in 1979. Under his rule, Iraq initially saw some stability.

Wars with Iran and Kuwait

However, Saddam’s tenure soon turned turbulent. In 1980, Iraq launched a devastating war against neighboring Iran, which lasted eight years and severely damaged Iraq’s economy. Just two years after the war ended, Iraq invaded Kuwait in 1990. This led to the U.S. and allied forces launching “Operation Desert Storm” in 1991 to liberate Kuwait, further crippling Iraq’s economy.

The U.S. Invasion and Iraq’s Fall

Already weakened by wars, Iraq faced a new challenge in 2003 when the U.S. invaded, accusing the country of developing weapons of mass destruction. Within 20 days, U.S. forces captured most Iraqi cities. Saddam Hussein was executed in 2006, marking the end of an era. Today, Iraq stands as a shadow of its former self, struggling to recover from decades of conflict and destruction.

Turkey, strongest Muslim country

According to a report from Pakistan’s newspaper Dawn, the Shehbaz Sharif government will focus on the development of exports, e-Pakistan, equity and empowerment, environment, food and water security, and energy and infrastructure over the next five years.

To recall, in April last year, Shehbaz Sharif had called for a comprehensive five-year strategy to double the country’s exports and emphasized the need for a collaborative approach. He had instructed the Ministry of Commerce to consult successful entrepreneurs and stakeholders to develop the export strategy.

During the launch of the five-year plan at a ceremony held in Islamabad, PM Shehbaz openly praised Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal, and Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, he said that it was due to their hard work that the economic development strategy for Pakistan for the next five years was formulated.

PM Sharif said, “In the last nine months, we have discussed significant challenges and difficulties, and through the relentless efforts of both federal and provincial governments along with all stakeholders, we have been able to achieve broad economic stability.” PM Sharif further added, “But this is just the beginning of a long journey, where we will need to make sacrifices, shed blood and sweat to achieve targeted economic development and regain our lost position among nations.”