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Quetta, June 27 (IANS) Human rights activists from Balochistan on Friday slammed the Pakistani authorities for continuous closure of the Abdohi border in Kech district, describing it as a form of economic exploitation by Islamabad.

"Since March 19, the Abdohi border in Kech has remained closed, severing a crucial source of income for hundreds of families in Balochistan. With no alternative livelihoods and rising economic distress, the closure has pushed communities into hunger and uncertainty," read a statement issued by the Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC), a human rights organisation from the Pakistani province.

Local traders, labourers and civilians held a peaceful sit-in protest on second consecutive day as protesters vowed to continue their agitation until the border is reopened and their economic survival is secured.

The BYC accused that rather than engaging in dialogue, Pakistani authorities attempted to suppress the protest as security forces used baton charges and force to intimidate and disperse the demonstrators.

Despite this, the rights body stated, the protestors continue to hold their ground, demanding an end to policies that deliberately marginalise them.

"The prolonged closure is not just a logistical issue but part of a larger pattern of control, where economic pressure is used as a tool to subjugate. In Balochistan, where corruption and underdevelopment already limit opportunities, closing the border has created a humanitarian crisis which is affecting everyone and frustration continues to build," said the BYC.

Urging authorities to immediately reopen the border, the BYC called for respecting the rights of citizens and halt in use of force against peaceful demonstrations. It also mentioned that ignoring these demands risks deepening of resentment and resistance among a population already pushed to the brink.

People from Balochistan are currently fighting for their independence from Pakistan.

Various human rights organisations of Balochistan have time and again highlighted the repression by Pakistani forces in the province, which includes violent raids on the homes of Baloch leaders and civilians, unlawful arrests, enforced disappearances, the 'kill and dump' policy, detention under the Maintenance of Public Order Ordinance, and the filing of fabricated police cases.

--IANS

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Dhaka, June 26 (IANS) Michael Miller, the European Union's Ambassador to Bangladesh, on Thursday expressed hope that Bangladesh will soon witness the restoration of democratic order through a free, fair, and credible national election.

The EU Ambassador made the remarks during his meeting with Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Standing Committee member Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury at the party chairperson’s office in Dhaka. The meeting was also attended by the BNP Organising Secretary Shama Obaed, local media reported.

Addressing reporters after the meeting, Khosru said, like other international partners, the EU is awaiting the formation of an elected government to determine the future course of action.

“The first thing that was discussed was the election. The election is being held in February, so everyone is relieved and satisfied, and they hope that we will move towards elections soon and the country will return to democratic order. Because they feel comfortable working with an elected government, we have had detailed discussions about these," Bangladeshi media outlet UNB quoted the BNP leader as saying.

Khosru added that during the meeting, the problems and rights of workers in Bangladesh were discussed.

He also said that the EU seeks to cooperate with the future Parliament of Bangladesh to ensure that activities can be carried out independently, effectively, and with accountability.

“They are thinking about new ways of funding. They want to cooperate with the next government economically and be a development partner of Bangladesh. This is a good sign," Khosru further added.

Last week, United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk expressed grave concern over recent legislative amendments made under the Muhammad Yunus-led interim government in Bangladesh that allowed the ban of political parties, organisations, and their related activities.

Addressing the 59th session of the Human Rights Council in Geneva, the UN human rights chief urged the interim government to make meaningful advances on reforms to create the environment for free and inclusive elections.

"I am concerned about recent changes to legislation to allow the banning of political parties and organisations and all related activities. This unduly restricts the freedoms of association, expression, and assembly. I urge meaningful advances on reforms to create the environment for free and inclusive elections," said Turk.

Previously, the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) presented a fact-finding report on Bangladesh that included suggestions in certain specific domains, such as accountability and justice, police and security, civic space, political system, and economic governance.

According to the report, the UN noted that prohibiting political parties would hinder a genuine transition to multiparty democracy and would essentially disenfranchise a significant portion of the Bangladeshi electorate.

Human Rights Watch, a US-based advocacy group, also severely criticised the Yunus regime for attempting to suppress the rights of supporters of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and the Awami League party.

The recent legislative initiatives by the interim government risk undermining fundamental freedoms, the rights body emphasised in a statement.

"On May 12, the interim government ordered a 'temporary' ban on the Awami League using newly introduced powers under a draconian amendment to the Anti-Terrorism Act. The ban includes, among other actions, meetings, publications, and online speech supporting the party," said HRW.

"The ban on the Awami League will apply until party leaders have faced trial for abuses committed during their 15-year rule, a process that could last years, thus effectively proscribing the party. The interim government has prohibited all activities, including any kind of publication, media, online and social media, any kind of campaign, procession, meeting, gathering, conference, etc. by the Bangladesh Awami League, curtailing supporters' freedom of speech and association," it further added.

Earlier, the UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres too had called for inclusive elections in Bangladesh, urging the interim government under Yunus "to continue to make every effort" to be inclusive, taking into account the voices of women and youth as well as those of minority and indigenous communities.

--IANS

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New Delhi, June 24 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Tuesday, held a telephone conversation with his Mauritian counterpart, Dr Navinchandra Ramgoolam, where the two exchanged views on further strengthening India-Mauritius Enhanced Strategic Partnership.

“Pleased to speak with my friend, Prime Minister Dr Navinchandra Ramgoolam. We exchanged views on further strengthening India-Mauritius Enhanced Strategic Partnership and regional developments. Mauritius remains a key partner in India’s Vision MAHASAGAR and our Neighbourhood First policy,” Prime Minister Modi posted on X after the talks.

During the interaction, the two leaders emphasised the special and unique ties between India and Mauritius, reaffirming their shared commitment to further deepen the Enhanced Strategic Partnership between the two countries.

They discussed the ongoing cooperation across a broad range of areas, including development partnership, capacity building, defence, maritime security, digital infrastructure, and people-to-people ties.

PM Modi appreciated the whole-hearted participation of PM Ramgoolam in the 11th International Day of Yoga.

He reiterated India’s steadfast commitment to the development priorities of Mauritius in line with Vision MAHASAGAR and India’s Neighbourhood First policy.

Prime Minister Modi also extended an invitation to his Mauritian counterpart Ramgoolam for an early visit to India. Both leaders agreed to remain in touch.

Earlier in March, Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Mauritius for two days.

After concluding his State Visit to Mauritius, PM Modi took to social media to express his gratitude. "I thank PM Dr. Navinchandra Ramgoolam, the people and Government of Mauritius for the warmth," PM Modi posted on his X handle.

PM Modi was the Chief Guest at Mauritius' National Day for the second time, the first was in 2015.

During the celebrations, President of the Republic of Mauritius Dharambeer Gokhool conferred the 'Grand Commander of the Order of the Star and Key of the Indian Ocean' (G.C.S.K) award, the highest civilian award of Mauritius, on Prime Minister Modi.

This was the first time that an Indian leader received this honour.

--IANS

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Doha, June 23 (IANS) Qatar on Monday announced that it reserves the right to respond directly in a manner equivalent following Iran’s retaliatory attack on the US bases in Qatar.

“We consider this a flagrant violation of the sovereignty of the State of Qatar, its airspace, international law, and the United Nations Charter. We affirm that Qatar reserves the right to respond directly in a manner equivalent to the nature and scale of this brazen aggression, in line with international law,” said Qatar’s Spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Majed Al Ansari.

He added that the State of Qatar strongly condemns the attack that targeted Al-Udeid Air Base by the Iranian Revolutionary Guard.

“We reassure that Qatar’s air defences successfully thwarted the attack and intercepted the Iranian missiles. We also emphasise that the continuation of such escalatory military actions will undermine security and stability in the region, dragging it into situations that could have catastrophic consequences for international peace and security,” Ansari said.

He said that Qatar calls for the immediate cessation of all military actions and for a serious return to the negotiating table and dialogue.

Ansari emphasised that Qatar was one of the first countries to warn against the dangers of Israeli escalation in the region.

“We have consistently called for diplomatic solutions to be prioritised and have stressed the importance of good-neighbourliness and avoiding escalation,” Ansari said.

He pointed out that reaffirmed that dialogue is the only way to overcome the current crises and ensure the security of the region and the peace of its people.

Ansari added that the US base had been evacuated earlier, following established security and precautionary measures, given the tensions in the region.

“All necessary steps were taken to ensure the safety of personnel at the base, including Qatari Armed Forces members, friendly forces, and others. We confirm that no injuries or human casualties resulted from the attack,” he said.

Earlier, Iran reportedly fired six missiles towards US military bases based in Iraq and Qatar.

As per media reports, the operation was named “Annunciation of Victory”. However, there have been no major impacts of the missile attack on the US bases in Qatar as American Patriot missile defence systems intercepted Iranian missiles.

Reports also said that the US activated its air defence system at the Ain Al-Asad airbase in Iraq as well.

Meanwhile, the White House has said that the US is closely monitoring threats to Al Udeid air base in Qatar.

--IANS

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Doha, June 23 (IANS) Qatar’s Ministry of Defence on Monday claimed that Iran’s retaliatory attack on the US bases in the country did not result in any deaths or injuries to civilians or military personnel.

“Thanks to God, the vigilance of the armed forces, and the precautionary measures taken, the incident did not result in any deaths or injuries,” said the country’s Defence Ministry.

The Ministry of Defence pointed out that Qatari air defences successfully intercepted a missile attack targeting Al-Udeid Air Base.

The ministry reiterated that the airspace and territory of the State of Qatar are safe and that the Qatari armed forces are always ready to deal with any threat.

The Ministry of Defence advises citizens and residents to seek guidance and the latest developments from official sources.

Earlier, Iran reportedly fired six missiles towards US military bases based in Iraq and Qatar.

As per media reports, the operation was named “Annunciation of Victory”. However, there have been no major impacts of the missile attack on the US bases in Qatar as American Patriot missile defence systems intercepted Iranian missiles.

Reports also said that the US activated its air defence system at the Ain Al-Asad airbase in Iraq as well.

Meanwhile, the White House has said that the US is closely monitoring threats to Al Udeid air base in Qatar.

--IANS

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Doha, June 23 (IANS) Qatar’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Monday announced a ‘temporary’ suspension of air traffic as precautionary measures following Iran’s retaliatory attack on the US bases in Qatar.

“As part of the State of Qatar's keenness to ensure the safety of its citizens, residents, and visitors, the relevant authorities announce the temporary suspension of air navigation in the country's airspace, as part of a set of precautionary measures taken based on recent developments in the region,” country’s foreign ministry said in a statement.

The ministry said that it affirms that official entities are closely and continuously monitoring the situation, evaluating developments in coordination with regional and international partners, and will provide the public with updates through official channels.

The ministry reiterated that the security and safety of everyone on Qatari soil remains a top priority, and that the state will not hesitate to take all necessary preventive and protective measures in this regard.

Earlier, Iran reportedly fired six missiles towards US military bases based in Iraq and Qatar.

As per media reports, the operation was named “Annunciation of Victory”. However, there have been no major impacts of the missile attack on the US bases in Qatar as American Patriot missile defence systems intercepted Iranian missiles.

Reports also said that the US activated its air defence system at the Ain Al-Asad airbase in Iraq as well.

Meanwhile, the White House has said that the US is closely monitoring threats to Al Udeid air base in Qatar.

“The White House and the United States Defence Department are closely monitoring potential threats to Al Udeid air base in Qatar,” an official has said.

Earlier, explosions were heard over the Qatari capital, Doha.

--IANS

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Tehran, June 23 (IANS) Iran has reportedly fired six missiles towards American military bases in Iraq and Qatar on Monday, furthering the conflict with Israel and the US.

As per media reports, the operation was named “Annunciation of Victory”. However, there have been no major impacts of the missile attack on the US bases in Qatar as American Patriot missile defence systems intercepted Iranian missiles.

Reports also said that the US activated its air defence system at the Ain Al-Asad airbase in Iraq as well.

Meanwhile, the White House has said that the US is closely monitoring threats to Al Udeid air base in Qatar.

“The White House and the United States Defence Department are closely monitoring potential threats to Al Udeid air base in Qatar,” an official has said.

Earlier, explosions were heard over the Qatari capital, Doha.

On Monday, Permanent Representative of India to the UN Shambhu S. Kumaran said that ensuring the security of nuclear facilities should be a high priority amid the war-like escalation between Iran and Israel in West Asia.

“Ensuring the safety and security of nuclear facilities is a high priority, keeping in mind the possible consequences of such attacks for public health and the environment,” said Ambassador Kumaran while delivering India’s statement at the special meeting of the IAEA Board of Governors on the situation in Iran.

Ambassador Kumaran also expressed India’s deep concern over the recent escalation of the situation in the Middle East, including the attacks on several nuclear facilities in Iran.

He also urged the IAEA to keep the Board updated on the extent of damage to nuclear facilities and report on the radiation levels.

Ambassador Kumaran also reiterated India’s call to all concerned to exercise utmost restraint so that the safety and security of nuclear facilities are not adversely impacted.

He further expressed India’s readiness to extend all possible support.

--IANS

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Vienna, June 23 (IANS) Permanent Representative of India to the UN Shambhu S. Kumaran said on Monday that ensuring the security of nuclear facilities should be a high priority amid the war-like escalation between Iran and Israel in West Asia.

“Ensuring the safety and security of nuclear facilities is a high priority, keeping in mind the possible consequences of such attacks for public health and the environment,” said Ambassador Kumaran while delivering India’s statement at the special meeting of the IAEA Board of Governors on the situation in Iran.

Ambassador Kumaran also expressed India’s deep concern over the recent escalation of the situation in the Middle East, including the attacks on several nuclear facilities in Iran.

He also urged the IAEA to keep the Board updated on the extent of damage to nuclear facilities and report on the radiation levels.

Ambassador Kumaran also reiterated India’s call to all concerned to exercise utmost restraint so that the safety and security of nuclear facilities are not adversely impacted.

He further expressed India’s readiness to extend all possible support.

Earlier, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi also exchanged views with his Italian and French counterparts on the US attacks against Iran's nuclear facilities.

In separate phone calls, Araghchi strongly condemned the US "aggression" against the three Iranian nuclear facilities of Fordow, Natanz, and Esfahan on Saturday, according to statements released by the Iranian Foreign Ministry on Monday.

In his phone call with Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani on Monday morning, Araghchi emphasised that the international community, specifically the European Union, "should react explicitly" to such an "aggression," stressing that Iran reserved the right to use all options within the framework of its legitimate right to self-defence.

Tajani expressed regret over the escalation in the region following the US attack, calling on all sides to return to diplomacy.

Speaking to French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot on Sunday night, Araghchi said the US military action violated all international laws and regulations, above all the United Nations Charter, stressing that silence and inaction in the face of the "aggression" would have consequences for all states.

The French foreign minister, for his part, expressed regret over the US attack, denying any involvement by France in planning and carrying out the "aggression."

--IANS

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New York, June 22 (IANS) US Vice-President J.D. Vance declared on Sunday that his country was not at war with Iran but only with its nuclear programme, leaving the door open for diplomacy.

President Donald Trump was certain to respond if Tehran was interested in a peaceful settlement.

"We're not at war with Iran," Vance told two interviewers using identical words.

"We're at war with Iran's nuclear programme."

Speaking on the morning after "Operation Midnight Hammer" attacking Tehran's three nuclear facilities, Vance told ABC News, "I think the President took decisive action to destroy that programme last night."

He ruled out trying to topple the Iranian Supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

"We don't want to achieve regime change," he said on ABC News.

On the possibility of a peaceful solution, Vance told NBC News, "We didn't blow up diplomacy," but "diplomacy never was given a real chance by the Iranians".

He said sarcastically, "The Iranians are clearly not very good at war."

"Perhaps they should follow President Trump's lead and give peace a chance," he added.

"If they're serious about it, I guarantee you the President of the United States is too," he said.

He was ambivalent about the extent of the destruction of the three nuclear facilities at Isfahan, Natanz and Fordow, which Trump said on Sunday night had been "completely and totally obliterated".

Asked on ABC News if he was certain about it, Vance said, "Severely damaged versus obliterated -- I'm not exactly sure what the difference is. What we know is we set their (Iran's) nuclear programme back substantially."

"They are much further away from the nuclear programme today than they were 24 hours ago," he added.

Vance was dismissive of reports that Iran's Parliament has endorsed a move to close the Strait of Hormuz, the jugular in international energy trade.

He told NBC, "If they want to destroy their own economy and cause disruptions in the world, I think that would be their decision."

"But why would they do that? I don't think it makes any sense," he said.

However, on a Fox News programme, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio asked China to intervene to keep the strait open.

"I encourage the Chinese government in Beijing to call them about that, because they heavily depend on the Strait of Hormuz for their oil," he said.

Rubio issued a deadly warning to Iran against retaliating against the US.

"It'll be the worst mistake they've ever made."

"We're not looking for war in Iran, but if they attack us, then I think we have capabilities they haven't even seen yet," he said.

--IANS

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Tehran, June 21 (IANS) Sri Lanka on Saturday expressed gratitude to India for assistance in evacuating its nationals from violence-hit Iran alongside Indian citizens amid tensions with Israel.

“Sri Lanka extends its sincere gratitude to the Government of India for the timely assistance to evacuate Sri Lankan nationals from Iran alongside Indian citizens,” the Foreign Ministry of Sri Lanka, Spokesperson, wrote on X.

He said that this act of solidarity exemplifies the strong and enduring partnership between the two countries.

“This help is deeply appreciated by the people of Sri Lanka,” he mentioned in his X post.

India to evacuate Nepalese, Sri Lankan nationals from Iran amid escalating tensions

Earlier, the Indian Embassy in Tehran announced that, upon formal requests from the governments of Nepal and Sri Lanka, the evacuation also included nationals from these two neighbouring countries.

In a post on X, the Indian Embassy stated, "On request of the Governments of Nepal and Sri Lanka, the Indian Embassy's evacuation efforts in Iran will also cover Citizens of Nepal and Sri Lanka."

The embassy also issued emergency contact numbers for affected citizens to seek immediate assistance: +989010144557, +989128109115, and +989128109109.

A Telegram channel was also activated for effective coordination and communication.

The development comes as tensions escalate sharply between Iran and Israel, following the launch of Israel's 'Operation Rising Lion,' a military initiative reportedly aimed at crippling Tehran's nuclear ambitions.

Iran has responded with a series of counterstrikes, leading to a rapidly deteriorating security environment in the region.

In response to the mounting crisis, India initiated Operation Sindhu to ensure the safe return of its nationals from Iran.

On Saturday morning, a special evacuation flight from Ashgabat, Turkmenistan, arrived in Delhi, carrying Indian citizens out of danger zones.

--IANS

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