Author: Naharnet Newsdesk

by Naharnet Newsdesk 03 July 2024, 12:07 In a recent press conference, a Taliban government spokesman revealed that two American prisoners were currently in custody in Afghanistan. The spokesman, Zabihullah Mujahid, also mentioned that discussions about an “exchange” involving Afghans held in Guantanamo Bay had taken place with the United States. Mujahid stated, “We should be able to free our citizens in an exchange, as American citizens are important for them (the United States), just as Afghans are important for us.” The ongoing negotiations highlight the complex dynamics between the two countries and the efforts being made to resolve issues…

Israeli forces clashed with Hamas in Gaza City as thousands of Palestinians sought refuge after an evacuation order in the territory’s south. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu rejected reports of a Gaza truce, emphasizing the goal to destroy Hamas and free hostages. The United Nations expressed concern over the escalating war, with tens of thousands displaced by the latest evacuation order. The humanitarian crisis in Gaza has left civilians in dire conditions, with widespread skin diseases and lack of aid. Despite calls for a truce, Israeli military operations continue throughout Gaza. The conflict, which began after Hamas attacked southern Israel, has…

by Naharnet Newsdesk03 July 2024, 14:56 In a shocking revelation, an anti-settlement watchdog unveiled that Israel has recently approved the largest land seizure in the occupied West Bank in over three decades. The Israeli group Peace Now reported that authorities gave the green light for the appropriation of 12.7 square kilometers (almost 5 square miles) of land in the Jordan Valley, marking a significant development since the Oslo accords in 1993. This approval, which only came to light recently although it was granted last month, follows previous seizures of 8 square kilometers in March and 2.6 square kilometers in February.…

Amid an ailing economy and conflicts in neighboring nations, Egypt’s new Cabinet, led by Prime Minister Mustafa Madbouly, took office on Wednesday. The reshuffle included changes in defense and economy-related positions, addressing public discontent over economic mismanagement, the pandemic, and fallout from wars in Europe and the Middle East. The new government aims to combat inflation, attract foreign investment, and revive the tourism sector, with key changes in finance, tourism, electricity, and foreign ministries. Notably, concerns over power cuts during summer heat and diplomatic leadership in conflicts in Gaza, Libya, and Sudan are being addressed through strategic appointments. President Abdel…

As the UK gears up for a national election, Rishi Sunak, the current Prime Minister, is feeling the pressure. Despite his efforts to showcase progress during his 20 months in office, the tide seems to be turning towards a potential Labour Party government. Labour leader Keir Starmer has been rallying support, emphasizing the need for change and resonating with voters. The Conservatives, on the other hand, have faced challenges ranging from gaffes to scandal, further eroding public trust in the party. With low voter turnout expected, this election could bring significant change to the country. The possibility of a Labour…

by Naharnet Newsdesk 03 July 2024, 10:50 Lebanese authorities have charged a man for belonging to the Islamic State group and opening fire on the U.S. embassy in Beirut. The suspect, Qais Farraj, was injured in the attack and is currently in intensive care at a military hospital. Two others were charged with trafficking unlicensed weapons that Farraj used in the attack. Additionally, 20 individuals, including Farraj’s family members and clerics, were arrested in connection to the incident. The shooting at the embassy last year was allegedly carried out by a delivery driver seeking revenge. The incident coincided with the…

Imagine driving through the chaotic streets of Beirut, only to find your GPS telling you that you’re magically in the Gaza Strip, over 300 kilometers away. This is the reality for Uber driver Hussein Khalil, who is losing money due to disrupted location data caused by Israel’s GPS jamming. The ongoing war in Gaza, triggered by an attack from Hamas, has led to Hezbollah engaging in cross-border clashes with Israel. As a result, online maps in Lebanon are showing incorrect locations, causing confusion and frustration among residents. Israel’s disruption of GPS functionality has not only affected Lebanon but also parts…

The recent United Nations-led meeting in Qatar with the Taliban focused on increasing engagement with Afghanistan without recognizing their government, according to a U.N. official. Envoys from two dozen countries gathered in Doha to discuss various issues, marking the first time that Afghan Taliban representatives attended a U.N.-sponsored meeting. Despite the exclusion of Afghan women from the talks, the Taliban engaged in constructive exchanges with various countries. Chief Taliban government spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid highlighted the need for cooperation in areas like the private sector and drug control. While many expressed disappointment over the exclusion of women and civil society representatives,…

Yemen faces a worsening food crisis as more than half of households struggle to eat enough, with the situation particularly dire in rebel-held northern regions. The World Food Program reports that severe food deprivation has hit record levels in areas like Al Jawf and Hajjah due to a halt in food assistance and economic hardships. Even the southern part of Yemen, controlled by the recognized government, is experiencing historic levels of food insufficiency. The civil war that began in 2014 has devastated Yemen’s economy, leading to an economic divide exacerbated by the rival Houthi and STC governments each having their…

Iran is facing a critical runoff presidential election after only 39.9% of its voting public cast a ballot in the first round. The country’s economy is in turmoil, dissent is met with force, and tensions with the West are high due to Iran’s nuclear enrichment. Hard-line candidate Saeed Jalili faces reformist Masoud Pezeshkian in a tight race that will determine the future of the nation. The election law requires a candidate to get over 50% of the vote to avoid a runoff. Pezeshkian received 10.4 million votes in the first round, while Jalili got 9.4 million. The endorsement from third-place…