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US halts all asylum claim decisions after National Guard shooting

The United States has announced a nationwide halt on all asylum claim decisions following the fatal shooting of two National Guard soldiers near the White House. The move marks one of the most sweeping pauses in the country’s modern asylum system and comes as federal officials launch an extensive security review into how the suspect — reportedly an asylum recipient — was vetted before entering the country. According to officials, the US asylum pause affects every category of affirmative asylum processing. Asylum officers have been instructed to continue reviewing files but may not approve, deny, or close any cases until further notice. All upcoming decision-related appointments have been canceled, leaving thousands of applicants in legal limbo. The freeze extends to individuals from all nationalities, including those who arrived through special programs created for vulnerable populations. Authorities say the temporary suspension is intended to ensure that vetting and background-check procedures meet the “highest security standards.” The shooting has intensified political debate in Washington, with lawmakers demanding tougher immigration controls and clearer screening protocols for individuals seeking protection through the asylum system. For applicants, the pause introduces uncertainty into an already backlogged process. Many asylum seekers rely on timely decisions to secure work authorization, reunite with family members, and stabilize their lives in the United States. Advocacy groups have raised concerns that the indefinite nature of the freeze could result in prolonged hardship and undermine protections for those fleeing persecution. Trump says US will pause migration from ‘third-world countries’ The federal government has not indicated when the pause will be lifted. Officials have stated only that decisions will resume once the review is complete and new guidance is in place. As the investigation into the shooting continues, the announcement signals a broader shift toward tightened immigration policies and heightened scrutiny of asylum claims nationwide.

Trump says US will pause migration from ‘third-world countries’

Afham5 months ago5 months ago04 mins

Donald Trump has announced that the United States will “permanently pause migration from all ‘Third World Countries’,” a move he claims is essential to give the “U.S. system time to fully recover.” His declaration, widely circulated through his social media post, marks one of the most sweeping immigration positions taken during his presidency. In his late-night statement, Trump outlined a set of hardline measures aimed at reshaping the immigration system. He said he intends to eliminate “all federal benefits and subsidies to noncitizens,” arguing that only individuals who contribute economically and culturally should remain in the country. He further stated that he would strip legal status and deport anyone he considers “not a net asset to the United States” or “incapable of loving our country.” The announcement followed a fatal shooting near the White House that was allegedly carried out by an Afghan national. The incident fueled political debate over national security and immigration enforcement. Trump’s response signals a significant escalation in his administration’s longstanding crackdown on migration, which has included tightened border controls, travel restrictions, and expanded deportations. He also warned that his administration would move to “denaturalise migrants who undermine domestic tranquility,” while expanding criteria for deportation to include foreign nationals deemed security risks or “non-compatible with Western civilisation.” The broad and undefined language of these criteria has triggered concern among legal experts and civil rights groups, who argue that such proposals could lead to inconsistent or discriminatory enforcement. One of the most notable gaps in Trump’s announcement is the absence of a clear definition of what constitutes “Third World Countries.” No list was provided, leaving observers to speculate about how broadly the policy could be applied. This ambiguity raises fears that immigrants from large portions of Asia, Africa, Latin America, and the Caribbean could face unprecedented barriers. Critics say the proposal lacks legal clarity, implementation details, and constitutional grounding. Past attempts by the Trump administration to impose similar restrictions — including travel bans and tightened visa rules — frequently faced court challenges and resistance from Congress. Analysts warn that a sweeping “migration pause” could be tied up in legal battles for months or years. If implemented as described, the plan could disrupt existing refugee admissions, family reunification petitions, employment visas, and Green Card processes. It may also create uncertainty for millions of immigrants already living in the United States, many of whom fear the potential expansion of deportation criteria. Trump’s proposal has intensified the national conversation on immigration, setting the stage for renewed political conflict as policymakers, advocates, and courts assess the legality and impact of such an unprecedented halt to migration.

Zelensky warns against giving away territory as latest Ukraine talks end

Afham5 months ago5 months ago03 mins

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has issued a firm warning against any proposals that involve surrendering territory to Russia, as the latest round of diplomatic discussions concluded without major breakthroughs. Speaking after the talks, Zelensky emphasized that Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity are non-negotiable, underscoring that no peace plan can succeed if it compromises the nation’s internationally recognized borders. The talks, which brought together Ukrainian officials and a coalition of international mediators, focused on exploring new frameworks for a potential ceasefire and long-term security guarantees. While some participants suggested considering territorial concessions as part of a broader compromise, Kyiv firmly rejected this approach. Zelensky stressed that accepting such terms would not only undermine Ukraine’s future security but also set a dangerous precedent for global norms surrounding territorial aggression. Despite the lack of concrete progress, diplomats described the negotiations as “constructive,” noting that all sides remain committed to pursuing a peaceful resolution. Ukraine reiterated that any sustainable peace agreement must include the full withdrawal of Russian forces, the return of all occupied regions, and binding security assurances to prevent future escalations. Zelensky also called on international partners to maintain strong political and military support for Ukraine, warning that weakening assistance would embolden Russian aggression and prolong the conflict. He highlighted the importance of unity among allies, especially as winter approaches and fighting continues on multiple fronts. While the talks ended without major advancements, the Ukrainian government said discussions would continue in the coming weeks. For Kyiv, the stance remains clear: peace is possible, but not at the cost of territorial loss or national sovereignty.

Nigeria sees one of worst mass abductions as 315 taken from school

Afham5 months ago5 months ago04 mins

Nigeria is facing one of its most devastating mass abductions in years after 315 people — including 303 students and 12 teachers — were seized from St. Mary’s Catholic Primary and Secondary School in the Papiri community of Niger State. The attack, carried out by heavily armed gunmen in the early hours, has renewed nationwide alarm over the persistent vulnerability of schools amid rising insecurity. The gunmen reportedly arrived in large numbers, overwhelming the limited security presence before storming classrooms and staff quarters. Many students attempted to flee into nearby bushes, but dozens were later confirmed to be among those abducted, raising the total number well above initial estimates. Local authorities and community leaders described the abduction as one of the largest school kidnappings ever recorded in the country, surpassing several high-profile incidents from previous years. The Christian Association of Nigeria confirmed the updated figure of 315 abducted after a detailed headcount, noting that some early reports had underestimated how many students were missing. Out of 629 enrolled students at the school, nearly half were taken, underscoring the scale of the crisis and the attackers’ ability to operate with impunity. The abduction follows another major kidnapping just days earlier, in which 25 girls were taken from a secondary school in Kebbi State. The back-to-back incidents have heightened fear across northern Nigeria and prompted authorities in nearby states to order emergency school closures as a precaution. The surge in violence has also pressured the federal government to reassess its security strategies, as armed groups increasingly target educational institutions for ransom or political leverage. President Bola Tinubu cancelled planned international commitments to address the crisis, directing military, police, and local security forces to conduct an intensive rescue operation across forests surrounding the area. Security personnel have reportedly launched coordinated searches, but large-scale abductions in remote regions often pose significant challenges due to difficult terrain and the mobility of the armed groups responsible. Community leaders have appealed for calm but expressed frustration over what they describe as recurring lapses in intelligence and protection for rural schools. The Christian Association of Nigeria urged the public to avoid circulating misinformation, dismissing claims that the school received prior warnings as false and harmful. Civil-society organizations, including major child-rights groups, have renewed calls for stronger national policies to protect schoolchildren, stressing that attacks on educational facilities have become disturbingly routine. The mass abduction in Niger State stands as a stark reminder of the insecurity gripping parts of the country. As families await news of their loved ones, the incident highlights the urgent need for sustained security reforms, improved community protection, and a strengthened commitment to safeguarding children — especially in regions where schools have increasingly become targets.

Zelensky ready to work with US on ‘their vision’ for ending Ukraine war

Afham5 months ago5 months ago04 mins

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has signaled a willingness to engage closely with Washington on a U.S.-backed peace proposal, describing his approach as “constructive, honest and prompt.” Following a meeting in Kyiv with U.S. Army Secretary Daniel Driscoll, Zelensky affirmed that Ukrainian and American teams would collaboratively work on the key elements of the plan. Although the full details of the 28-point plan have not been publicly disclosed, reports suggest it contains highly sensitive terms — including territorial concessions, military restrictions, and a new security architecture. According to media coverage, some of the most controversial proposals would require Ukraine to cede control over the Donbas region, formally recognize Russian control over Crimea, Luhansk, and Donetsk, and limit its army to 600,000 troops. In exchange, Ukraine would receive “robust security guarantees,” though the exact form and enforceability of those guarantees remain unclear. For Zelensky, agreeing to negotiate does not mean blind capitulation. His office says that while he has accepted a draft, he has also “outlined the fundamental principles that matter to our people.” He frames the collaboration as essential for a “just peace that respects everyone’s sovereignty, a durable peace that can’t be called into question by future aggression.” This willingness to engage has stirred strong reactions. Several European allies have pushed back, warning that the U.S.-proposed plan could amount to a forced surrender of Ukrainian land and resources. Critics argue that such terms might undermine Ukraine’s long-term security and set a dangerous precedent for capitulation-style diplomacy. Still, Zelensky appears determined enough to explore diplomacy. His team plans to hold further discussions not only with U.S. officials but also with other international leaders. According to his office, as part of upcoming diplomacy, Zelensky expects to engage with former U.S. President Donald Trump to explore key diplomatic pathways. How Tommy Hilfiger Became an Overnight Success | Perception Hack | Genius | Secret Zelensky’s outreach underscores a realistic — albeit risky — gamble: he hopes that by aligning with the U.S. vision of peace, Ukraine can secure a deal that prevents future Russian aggression while preserving core national interests. At the same time, he is balancing a fragile relationship — negotiating under pressure from Western allies, wary of concessions, and on a war footing that demands both vigilance and flexibility. Children among 25 killed in one of Russia’s deadliest strikes on western Ukraine

Russia-Ukraine war residential building strike

Children among 25 killed in one of Russia’s deadliest strikes on western Ukraine

Afham5 months ago5 months ago04 mins

A devastating Russian drone and missile strike hit the western Ukrainian city of Ternopil overnight, killing 25 people, including three children, and injuring dozens more. The attack, one of the deadliest in western Ukraine since the start of the full-scale invasion, struck a densely populated residential area where families were asleep as the bombardment began. According to authorities, two nine-storey residential apartment blocks suffered direct hits. The upper floors were torn apart as explosions triggered a fierce blaze that engulfed the buildings within minutes. Interior Minister Ihor Klymenko described sections of the structure being consumed in what he called “fiery lava,” a torrent of flames so intense that many residents had no chance to escape before the fire overtook their homes. Of the 25 confirmed fatalities, three were children aged just 5, 7, and 16. Emergency crews reported that another 73 people were wounded, including at least 15 children, many suffering burns, blast injuries, or smoke inhalation. Rescue workers continued digging through smoldering rubble throughout the day, warning that as many as two dozen people remained missing and that recovery operations could take several days due to the scale of destruction. Ukraine’s air force said Russia launched an enormous overnight barrage consisting of 476 drones and 48 missiles targeting multiple regions. While air defenses intercepted a significant number, several managed to slip through, striking civilian infrastructure, residential zones, and energy facilities. The attack triggered power outages across several western regions, leaving thousands without electricity or heating as winter temperatures continue to drop sharply. Local officials warned that the humanitarian situation could worsen if strikes on energy facilities persist. Ukrainian leaders condemned the assault as a deliberate attack on civilians, emphasizing that there were no military installations near the impact zone. Officials stressed that the timing and scale of the strike suggested an effort to sow fear and cause mass casualties far from active front lines. The attack coincided with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s diplomatic visit to Turkey, where he is seeking enhanced international support to counter Russia’s escalating aerial campaign. Ukrainian authorities announced they would raise the Ternopil strike at the United Nations Security Council, calling for a stronger global response and accountability measures. Ukraine to get up to 100 French-made Rafale fighter jets As firefighters continued to extinguish pockets of flames and families searched for missing loved ones, the tragedy underscored the increasingly lethal reach of Russian strikes—even in Ukraine’s western regions, which had once been considered relatively safe. For many residents, the overnight attack marked a horrifying reminder that no part of the country is beyond the war’s devastating impact. How Tommy Hilfiger Became an Overnight Success | Perception Hack | Genius | Secret

Trump says he will take legal action against BBC over Panorama edit

Afham5 months ago5 months ago05 mins

Donald Trump has announced that he will pursue legal action against the BBC, accusing the broadcaster of defamation after what he describes as a deceptive and damaging edit of his January 6, 2021 speech in a recent Panorama documentary. Speaking aboard Air Force One, Trump confirmed that he intends to file the lawsuit “sometime next week,” adding that he is seeking between $1 billion and $5 billion in compensation. His lawyer, Alejandro Brito, previously sent the BBC a letter demanding a full retraction, a public apology, and significant financial damages. The controversy centers on the Panorama episode titled “Trump: A Second Chance?”, which aired shortly before the 2024 U.S. election. The documentary used excerpts from Trump’s January 6 speech, but critics say the program spliced together lines from different parts of the address, making it appear as though Trump called on supporters to “fight like hell” as they moved toward the Capitol. In reality, the statements were made nearly an hour apart, and key segments in which Trump urged protesters to remain peaceful were omitted. These editorial choices prompted accusations that the documentary created a misleading narrative about Trump’s intentions on the day of the Capitol riot. Following the outcry, the BBC issued an apology, with its chair Samir Shah describing the edit as an “error of judgment.” The broadcaster also confirmed that it would not rebroadcast the documentary in its existing form. However, despite acknowledging the editing mistake, the BBC rejected Trump’s request for damages, arguing that there is no legal basis for a defamation claim of the scale he is pursuing. Trump has remained firm in his stance, insisting that he feels an “obligation” to proceed with the lawsuit. He argues that media organizations should be held accountable when they distort or manipulate his words. He publicly described the Panorama edit as a “corrupt” example of fake news designed to misrepresent his message and influence public perception. The fallout from the incident has already been significant. Two high-profile BBC executives—Director-General Tim Davie and News Chief Deborah Turness—have resigned amid the ongoing scandal, reflecting both internal and external pressure over the handling of the documentary. Despite Trump’s determination, legal experts have expressed skepticism about the viability of the lawsuit. Questions have been raised regarding the statute of limitations under UK defamation law, as well as the complexities of pursuing such a claim in U.S. courts. Nevertheless, Trump continues to frame the dispute as part of his broader battle against what he views as longstanding media bias, reinforcing his narrative that major news outlets frequently distort his rhetoric. This planned lawsuit is the latest escalation in Trump’s ongoing clash with mainstream media organizations and underscores his intent to confront those he believes have misrepresented him.

Trump celebrates as Democrats face fallout from end of shutdown

Afham5 months ago5 months ago04 mins

Former President Donald Trump has declared victory following the abrupt end of the U.S. government shutdown, framing the outcome as a political setback for Democrats and a reaffirmation of his influence over national politics. The shutdown, which lasted 12 days, ended after Congress passed a bipartisan funding measure to keep the government open through the fiscal year. However, the political repercussions have begun to surface, with Democrats facing internal divisions and criticism over how they managed the crisis. Trump, speaking at a rally in Ohio, described the resolution as proof that Democrats had “no strategy, no leadership, and no message.” He argued that the party’s failure to secure any significant policy wins during the shutdown demonstrated what he called “a complete collapse of the radical left’s agenda.” Supporters at the rally cheered as Trump claimed the standoff had strengthened his image as a dealmaker capable of pressuring opponents to concede. Inside the Democratic Party, frustration has reportedly grown among lawmakers and strategists. Progressives criticized party leaders for agreeing to reopen the government without achieving key objectives, such as expanded funding for social programs or immigration reforms. Moderate Democrats, meanwhile, have urged a shift toward pragmatic negotiation rather than confrontation, fearing that prolonged shutdowns could alienate independent voters ahead of the next election cycle. Political analysts suggest the episode could deepen the divide between progressive and centrist factions within the Democratic Party. Several commentators noted that while Republicans also faced public backlash during the early days of the shutdown, the resolution’s outcome has allowed Trump to reshape the narrative, portraying himself as the figure who brought Washington back to order. The White House has capitalized on the moment, releasing statements crediting Trump with “restoring stability and accountability.” Administration officials have emphasized that the president’s stance during negotiations reflected his broader campaign promise to protect taxpayers from what he calls “reckless Democratic spending.” On Capitol Hill, some Democrats have attempted to downplay the perceived loss, insisting that reopening the government was necessary to protect federal workers and prevent further economic disruption. Yet, privately, aides acknowledge that the episode has left the party searching for a clearer messaging strategy. As Trump continues to dominate headlines and shape the post-shutdown political narrative, Democrats are now turning their focus toward repairing internal unity and preparing for upcoming budget debates. The shutdown’s end may have restored government operations, but it also reignited questions about leadership, strategy, and the shifting balance of power in Washington.

Epstein alleged that Trump ‘spent hours’ with one of his victims, as thousands of documents released

Afham5 months ago5 months ago04 mins

Thousands of pages of newly unsealed court documents related to the late financier Jeffrey Epstein have revealed fresh details about his network of associates and alleged interactions with powerful figures, including former U.S. President Donald Trump. The files, which stem from a long-running civil case against Epstein’s associate Ghislaine Maxwell, include depositions, witness statements, and correspondence that shed light on the scale of Epstein’s operations and the alleged involvement of several high-profile individuals. Among the revelations, one of Epstein’s alleged victims claimed that Trump had “spent hours” with her at Epstein’s Palm Beach residence. The woman, whose identity remains confidential in the documents, did not accuse Trump of sexual misconduct but described his presence at gatherings organized by Epstein in the early 2000s. The allegations add to the growing scrutiny surrounding Epstein’s connections with influential figures from politics, business, and entertainment. Trump has repeatedly denied any wrongdoing or inappropriate relationship with Epstein or his associates. He has acknowledged knowing Epstein “like everybody in Palm Beach,” but insisted he was “not a fan” of the financier and severed ties with him long before his 2019 arrest. Epstein, who was charged with sex trafficking of minors, died in jail that same year in what was officially ruled a suicide. The newly released files also mention other prominent names, including Prince Andrew, Bill Clinton, and several former officials and celebrities. While the documents contain numerous allegations, much of the material remains unverified or based on witness testimony, and no additional criminal charges have been filed as a result of the disclosures. Legal experts say the release of these records underscores the far-reaching nature of Epstein’s influence and the need for continued transparency. Victims’ advocates have welcomed the disclosures, saying they help expose the scale of Epstein’s alleged abuse and the systems that enabled it to persist for years. The Epstein case continues to be one of the most controversial scandals involving sexual exploitation, wealth, and power. As investigators and journalists sift through the newly unsealed evidence, questions remain about who else may have known about or participated in Epstein’s activities—and whether justice can ever be fully served for his victims.

Inside Gaza, BBC sees total devastation after two years of war

Afham6 months ago6 months ago04 mins

Two years after the war between Israel and Hamas began, the Gaza Strip has been reduced to ruins, with once-thriving neighborhoods now resembling ghost towns. A BBC team granted rare access to the territory describes a landscape of total devastation — homes flattened, hospitals barely functioning, and thousands of displaced families struggling to survive amid the wreckage. Entire districts that were once crowded with markets, schools, and apartment blocks now lie in rubble. In northern Gaza, what used to be Gaza City’s commercial heart is now a sea of collapsed concrete and twisted metal. The BBC crew reported seeing children playing amid debris, their laughter echoing in streets that have no running water, electricity, or sanitation. “It’s like time stopped here,” one resident told reporters. “We are alive, but everything around us is dead.” The humanitarian situation remains dire. The United Nations estimates that more than 1.7 million people — nearly 80 percent of Gaza’s population — are still displaced. Many live in makeshift shelters or tents built from scrap metal and plastic sheets. Food shortages are chronic, with aid deliveries continuing to face restrictions at border crossings. Hospitals, already crippled by years of blockade, are overwhelmed. Doctors work without adequate supplies, and power cuts force surgeries to be done under flashlights. The BBC also visited Al-Shifa Hospital in Gaza City, once the territory’s largest medical facility. Its corridors are dark, lined with patients on stretchers, while generators rumble outside. “We’ve lost colleagues, we’ve lost equipment, and we’re losing patients we could have saved,” said one exhausted doctor. Israel’s government maintains that its military operations were aimed at dismantling Hamas’s military infrastructure, following the deadly attacks that triggered the war in 2023. Officials say rebuilding can only begin once Hamas’s influence is completely removed. However, international aid agencies argue that ordinary civilians have borne the brunt of the destruction, with entire families wiped out and public infrastructure obliterated. Despite calls from global powers for a long-term ceasefire and reconstruction plan, progress has been painfully slow. Many foreign donors remain hesitant to fund rebuilding projects without assurances of stability. Meanwhile, Gazans face another winter with little shelter and minimal hope. At the Rafah crossing on the Egyptian border, crowds gather daily, hoping for rare permits to leave. “We just want to live somewhere safe,” said a young mother holding her child. “We have nothing left here.” Two years on, the BBC’s report paints a bleak picture: a territory trapped between the ruins of war and the uncertainty of peace. For Gaza’s people, survival has become the only measure of victory.