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Canada mourns with you, tearful PM Carney tells town where nine killed in shootings

Prime Minister Mark Carney delivered an emotional address to a grieving community after nine people were killed in a series of shootings that have shaken the nation. Standing before residents, first responders, and families of the victims, Carney said, “Canada mourns with you,” his voice breaking as he pledged federal support and solidarity. The shootings, which took place over a short but devastating span, left the small town in shock. Authorities confirmed that nine victims lost their lives, and several others remain hospitalized. Law enforcement agencies have launched a full investigation to determine the motive and circumstances surrounding the attack. Officials described the incident as one of the deadliest acts of violence in the region in recent memory. During his visit, Carney met privately with victims’ families and frontline responders. He praised the courage of police officers, paramedics, and medical staff who acted swiftly to secure the area and treat the injured. The Prime Minister emphasized that the country stands united in grief and resolve, stating that “no community should face such tragedy alone.” Flags were lowered to half-mast across government buildings as Canadians held vigils in multiple cities. Community leaders called for compassion, mental health support, and renewed discussions on public safety measures. While investigators continue their work, officials urged the public to avoid speculation and allow the judicial process to proceed. Carney reaffirmed the federal government’s commitment to working with provincial and local authorities to address gun violence and enhance community safety. He acknowledged that words cannot undo the pain but stressed that national unity and concrete action are essential steps forward. As candles flickered in the town square, residents gathered in silence, embracing one another. In his closing remarks, Carney said the country shares their sorrow and will remember the lives lost. EU adds Iran’s Revolutionary Guards to terrorist list.

US wants Russia and Ukraine to end war by June, says Zelensky

Afham2 months ago2 months ago03 mins

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has said the United States is pushing for Russia and Ukraine to bring the ongoing war to an end by June, highlighting growing international pressure to secure a ceasefire after nearly four years of devastating conflict. Speaking during a recent briefing, Zelensky said Washington believes the coming months represent a critical window for diplomacy, as battlefield fatigue, economic strain, and global security concerns continue to mount. According to the Ukrainian leader, the US hopes intensified talks could lead to at least a temporary halt in fighting, paving the way for broader peace negotiations. The Russia Ukraine war end June timeline reflects rising urgency among Western allies, who are seeking to prevent further escalation while managing the humanitarian and economic fallout of the conflict. Zelensky stressed that Ukraine remains open to diplomatic efforts but warned that any agreement must protect the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. He also reiterated that Kyiv will not accept a settlement imposed under military pressure. Ukrainian officials continue to demand firm security guarantees and accountability for war-related damages, while Russia has maintained its own conditions for negotiations. The war has caused widespread destruction across Ukraine, displaced millions, and reshaped global energy and food markets. As both sides prepare for another challenging spring on the battlefield, international mediators are stepping up efforts to restart meaningful dialogue. US officials are reportedly coordinating closely with European partners to encourage confidence-building measures, including prisoner exchanges and humanitarian corridors, as potential first steps toward de-escalation. Zelensky emphasized that lasting peace will require more than a ceasefire, calling for a comprehensive framework that addresses reconstruction, security, and justice. He added that Ukraine will continue working with its allies to ensure any talks are grounded in international law. With June emerging as a potential diplomatic milestone, the coming weeks may prove decisive in determining whether the war moves closer to resolution—or enters another prolonged phase.

More than 30 killed in blast at Pakistan mosque, officials say

Afham3 months ago3 months ago03 mins

At least 30 people were killed and dozens more injured after a powerful explosion ripped through a mosque in Pakistan during evening prayers, according to local officials. The devastating Pakistan mosque blast struck a crowded prayer hall, turning a place of worship into a scene of chaos and grief within moments. Authorities said the explosion occurred as worshippers gathered in large numbers, amplifying the impact of the attack. Emergency responders rushed to the site, transporting the wounded to nearby hospitals, where several victims remain in critical condition. Medical staff warned that the death toll could rise as rescue efforts continue and more injured are brought in from surrounding areas. Eyewitnesses described hearing a loud bang followed by thick smoke and panic as survivors attempted to flee the building. Many helped carry injured people out on stretchers or makeshift supports while ambulances struggled to navigate congested streets. Security forces cordoned off the area and launched an immediate investigation. Preliminary reports suggest the blast may have been caused by a suicide bomber, though officials said it was too early to confirm the exact nature of the attack. Bomb disposal units and forensic teams were deployed to collect evidence from the scene. Pakistan’s leadership strongly condemned the violence, calling it a cowardly assault on innocent civilians and religious worshippers. Statements of sympathy poured in from across the country, with leaders pledging to bring those responsible to justice. Militant attacks on religious sites have occurred periodically in Pakistan, despite years of counterterrorism operations aimed at curbing extremist groups. Such incidents continue to highlight the fragile security situation in parts of the country and the persistent threat posed by militant networks. As families mourn their loved ones, officials have promised tighter security around mosques and public spaces. The tragedy has reignited calls for stronger intelligence coordination and enhanced protection for vulnerable communities, underscoring the urgent need to prevent further bloodshed.

Hope and uncertainty as India and US strike long-delayed trade deal

Afham3 months ago1 month ago03 mins

India and the United States have finally reached a long-awaited trade agreement, marking a significant milestone in bilateral relations and raising hopes of stronger economic cooperation. Announced after months of intense negotiations, the deal is being seen as a breakthrough that could ease trade tensions, boost exports, and deepen strategic ties between the world’s largest democracy and its biggest economy. Markets reacted positively to the news, with Indian equities and the rupee showing immediate gains. Export-oriented sectors such as textiles, engineering goods, and jewellery are expected to benefit from reduced tariffs and improved access to the US market. Business leaders in both countries welcomed the agreement, calling it a step toward greater stability and predictability in cross-border commerce. Despite the optimism, uncertainty continues to surround key aspects of the pact. Several details remain unclear, including the full scope of tariff cuts, timelines for implementation, and how sensitive sectors like agriculture and dairy will be protected. Analysts caution that while the headline agreement is encouraging, its real impact will depend on the fine print and how effectively both governments follow through on commitments. There are also geopolitical dimensions to consider. Energy cooperation and India’s oil sourcing policies have reportedly featured in discussions, reflecting Washington’s broader strategic priorities. At home, Indian opposition parties have raised concerns about whether small farmers and domestic industries could face increased competition. For the United States, the deal represents an effort to strengthen economic ties with a key Indo-Pacific partner, while India sees it as an opportunity to attract investment, expand exports, and position itself as a reliable global manufacturing hub. Ultimately, the trade agreement signals renewed momentum in India–US relations. Yet it remains a delicate balancing act between opportunity and risk. As both sides move toward implementation, businesses and policymakers alike will be watching closely to see whether this long-delayed deal delivers lasting economic gains or becomes another chapter of unfinished promises WABS TALK . EU adds Iran’s Revolutionary Guards to terrorist list.

US justice department releasing more than three million pages from Epstein files

Afham3 months ago1 month ago03 mins

On January 30, 2026, the U.S. Justice Department announced a major disclosure of documents in its ongoing probe into convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, releasing more than three million pages of records as part of a mandated transparency effort under the Epstein Files Transparency Act. Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche said the release includes a large volume of material — over 2,000 videos and about 180,000 images — drawn from the department’s investigations, which span more than two decades of probes in Florida and New York, as well as related inquiries into Epstein’s network and activities. Although the law required all unclassified documents to be made public by December 19, 2025, the Justice Department missed that deadline due to the enormity of the review and redaction process. Hundreds of attorneys were tasked with examining the material to properly redact personally identifying information of victims, sensitive law enforcement details, and content that could jeopardize ongoing investigations. Blanche emphasized that while extensive redactions were necessary — including removing the identities of all women in images except Ghislaine Maxwell — the department did not withhold records for political reasons, dismissing claims of shielding any individual from scrutiny. The released files add to previously disclosed batches and represent a significant step in fulfilling the department’s legal obligations under the new transparency law, even as some material remains subject to further review or restricted access by Congress. The surge of public attention around the case — driven by both the scale of the release and the high-profile figures referenced in some records — follows widespread criticism from lawmakers and advocacy groups who had pressed the Justice Department for a more complete disclosure of Epstein-related materials. EU adds Iran’s Revolutionary Guards to terrorist list

EU adds Iran’s Revolutionary Guards to terrorist list

Afham3 months ago3 months ago03 mins

EU adds Iran’s Revolutionary Guards to terrorist list — On 29 January 2026, the European Union (EU) formally added Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) to its official terrorist organizations list, marking a major escalation in the bloc’s response to Tehran’s domestic repression and regional conduct. The decision was made unanimously by the 27 EU member states’ foreign ministers during a meeting in Brussels, with support from traditionally cautious capitals including France, Germany, and Italy. The move reflects growing concern within the EU over the IRGC’s role in violently suppressing widespread protests inside Iran. Human rights groups say the crackdown led to thousands of deaths and mass arrests, drawing strong international condemnation. EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas said the designation was justified because “repression cannot go unanswered,” adding that labeling an organization accused of killing its own citizens as terrorist sends a clear political signal. By placing the IRGC alongside extremist groups such as al-Qaida and ISIS, the EU now criminalizes material support or cooperation with the Guard within its jurisdiction. The listing triggers asset freezes, travel bans, and legal penalties under EU law. Member states also gain stronger legal authority to investigate networks tied to the IRGC and enforce financial restrictions against individuals or entities linked to the group. Iran swiftly condemned the decision, warning of destabilizing consequences and possible retaliation. Tehran accused the EU of politicizing counterterrorism measures and interfering in Iran’s internal affairs. While some analysts argue the step is largely symbolic given existing sanctions imposed by the United States, Canada, and Australia, the designation represents a significant political rebuke. The move aligns European policy more closely with Western partners critical of Iran’s domestic crackdown and regional activities. It also signals a tougher EU stance toward Tehran at a time of heightened tensions, reinforcing pressure on Iran over human rights and security concerns.

Trump warns Iran ‘time is running out’ for nuclear deal as US military builds up in Gulf

Afham3 months ago3 months ago03 mins

President Donald Trump has issued a stark warning to Iran that “time is running out” for Tehran to negotiate a fresh nuclear deal, intensifying one of the most serious diplomatic standoffs between Washington and Tehran in years. Trump used his Truth Social platform to demand that Iran return to negotiations on its nuclear programme under terms that would completely bar nuclear weapons development. He framed the ultimatum as urgent, urging Tehran to “come to the table” before diplomatic avenues close and military action becomes unavoidable. Alongside this warning, the United States has deployed a significant military buildup in the Persian Gulf region, centred on a “massive armada” led by the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln. Trump described the force as “ready, willing, and able to rapidly fulfil its mission with speed and violence, if necessary,” underscoring that diplomatic pressure is being backed by a credible military posture. In his message, Trump referenced past U.S. strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities during the 2025 conflict and warned that “the next attack will be far worse” if Iran refuses to negotiate. Tehran has rebuffed what it calls diplomacy under threat, insisting that negotiations must occur without military pressure and that it will defend itself if attacked. Iranian officials have rejected recent U.S. overtures and described Washington’s approach as ineffective and confrontational. The current crisis is unfolding amid broader regional and global concern over Iran’s nuclear trajectory, internal unrest, and the growing risk that further escalation could ignite a wider Middle East conflict. U.S. allies in the region have urged restraint while quietly strengthening their own defences. Some governments remain reluctant to host American military operations, complicating Washington’s strategic options. With tensions rising, Trump has made clear that his administration prefers a negotiated settlement — but only on strict terms. As military forces gather in the Gulf and rhetoric hardens on both sides, the coming weeks may prove decisive in determining whether diplomacy prevails or the standoff slides toward open confrontation.

Israel says it has retrieved remains of final Gaza hostage

Afham3 months ago3 months ago03 mins

Israel has announced that it has recovered the remains of what it says was the final Israeli hostage held in Gaza, marking a grim milestone in the aftermath of the October 7 attacks and the prolonged war that followed. Israeli officials confirmed the operation was carried out by the military and domestic security services during a targeted mission in southern Gaza. The remains were transferred back to Israel for forensic identification, after which authorities notified the victim’s family. The individual had been presumed dead for months, but confirmation only came following the recovery process. The announcement brings symbolic closure to Israel’s hostage recovery efforts, which have been ongoing alongside intense military operations across Gaza. According to Israeli leaders, the mission reflects a continued commitment to returning every captive, living or deceased, to their families. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the country “bows its head in mourning” and reaffirmed Israel’s pledge to account for all those taken during the Hamas-led assault. Defense officials described the recovery as both operationally complex and emotionally significant, emphasizing that intelligence gathering and ground coordination played a critical role. Families of hostages have expressed mixed emotions, combining relief at finally receiving answers with deep grief over the loss of their loved ones. Advocacy groups representing relatives said the moment underscores the human cost of the conflict and renewed calls for accountability. The development comes amid ongoing fighting and mounting international pressure for a ceasefire and expanded humanitarian access to Gaza. Palestinian health authorities continue to report heavy civilian casualties, while aid agencies warn of worsening conditions across the enclave. With the confirmation of the Israel Gaza hostage remains, attention now shifts to broader diplomatic efforts aimed at ending the war and addressing the future governance of Gaza. For many Israelis, the recovery closes one painful chapter, even as the wider conflict shows few signs of resolution.

One dead after Minneapolis shooting involving immigration agents

Afham3 months ago3 months ago03 mins

A fatal shooting in Minneapolis, Minnesota, involving U.S. federal immigration agents has resulted in the death of one person, according to multiple media reports and hospital records. The incident occurred on January 24, 2026, at the intersection of East 26th Street and Nicollet Avenue South during a broader immigration enforcement operation led by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents. A 51-year-old man who was shot in the chest by an ICE agent was taken to a local hospital and later pronounced dead, marking another deadly encounter in the city amid heightened federal enforcement activity. Local law enforcement sources and eyewitness accounts indicate that federal agents were engaged in a mission tied to expanded immigration operations when the confrontation occurred. Officials from the Department of Homeland Security later stated that the man was armed and that a firearm with two magazines was recovered at the scene. This assertion has been cited in official statements as justification for the use of deadly force, though further details have not yet been independently confirmed. The shooting follows earlier controversial incidents involving immigration officers in Minneapolis. On January 7, 2026, an ICE agent fatally shot Renée Nicole Good, a 37-year-old U.S. citizen and mother, during an encounter on Portland Avenue South. Accounts from local authorities and federal officials have sharply differed over whether she posed an imminent threat at the time of the shooting, adding to public concern and scrutiny. Both deaths have intensified unrest in the city, prompting protests and renewed calls from Minnesota officials for federal immigration enforcement actions to be paused. Governor Tim Walz condemned the January 24 shooting as “sickening” and urged the Trump administration to halt the current enforcement campaign in the state, arguing that it endangers community safety and undermines public trust. The situation remains fluid, with investigations ongoing and community reactions continuing. The incidents have reignited a national debate over the use of force by federal agents in densely populated urban areas and the level of oversight applied to immigration enforcement operations.

Trump remarks about Nato troops in Afghanistan are ‘insulting’, says Starmer

Afham3 months ago3 months ago03 mins

UK Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer has condemned remarks by former US president Donald Trump about Nato troops in Afghanistan, describing them as “insulting” and disrespectful to allied forces who served and died alongside American soldiers during the conflict. Starmer said Trump’s comments undermined the sacrifices made by British and other Nato personnel over two decades of operations in Afghanistan. He stressed that the mission was conducted collectively, under Nato command, and involved shared decision-making and shared risk. “British troops stood shoulder to shoulder with US forces,” Starmer said. “Any suggestion that allied contributions were secondary or unworthy is deeply offensive to the families of those who lost their lives.” Trump, who has repeatedly criticised the Afghanistan war and the chaotic withdrawal in 2021, has in recent remarks questioned the value of Nato involvement and accused allies of failing to meet their responsibilities. While Trump did not single out the UK by name, his broader comments about allied performance prompted a strong reaction in London. The UK lost 457 service personnel during the Afghanistan campaign, making it the second-largest contributor of troops after the United States. British forces played key roles in combat operations, training Afghan security forces, and reconstruction efforts, particularly in Helmand province. Starmer said it was legitimate to debate the political decisions that led to the war and the manner of the withdrawal, but argued that criticism should never be directed at the troops themselves. He warned that dismissive rhetoric risked damaging trust within Nato at a time of heightened global insecurity. The comments also drew criticism from senior military figures and veterans’ groups, who said allied unity was essential for the credibility of the alliance. With Trump campaigning for a return to the White House and questioning long-standing US security commitments, the row is likely to fuel further debate in Europe about the future of Nato and the reliability of US leadership within the alliance.