How Pakistan misread the Taliban and lost peace on the frontier

The Taliban has dismissed claims of a nationwide internet ban in Afghanistan, despite their history of implementing local blackouts to curb what they deem 'immoral activities.' This situation is significant as it highlights the ongoing tension between the Taliban's governance and the need for open communication and access to information in the country.

The recent US government shutdown has sparked a fierce blame game between Republicans and Democrats, highlighting the deep political divisions in the country. This shutdown not only affects government operations but also has broader implications for citizens relying on federal services. Meanwhile, the Taliban's decision to shut down the internet has left millions of women and girls isolated, raising serious human rights concerns. In a lighter note, the emergence of an AI 'actress' is poised to revolutionize the film industry, showcasing the rapid advancements in technology. Lastly, police encountered a bizarre situation when they stopped a car with no driver, reminding us of the strange times we live in.

Veterans are expressing strong disapproval of Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's recent address to military leaders, which many found to be egotistical and dangerous. Naveed Shah, a veteran and activist, highlighted the speech's focus on physical fitness and a doctrine of lethality, suggesting it undermines the values of the military. This reaction matters because it reflects a growing concern among veterans about the direction of military leadership and its implications for service members.

In Afghanistan, a significant internet blackout has left many citizens disconnected, prompting the Taliban to deny any nationwide ban. They attribute the disruption to the replacement of outdated fiber optic cables. This situation is crucial as it highlights the ongoing challenges in Afghanistan's infrastructure and communication, affecting daily life and access to information.

The Trump administration's strategy for tackling drug cartels draws parallels to military operations used in the global war on terror, particularly following the September 11 attacks. This approach suggests a significant shift in how the U.S. addresses drug-related violence, emphasizing military tactics to combat these organizations. Understanding this strategy is crucial as it may reshape U.S. foreign and domestic policy regarding drug enforcement and security.

The United Nations has urged the Taliban to restore internet and telecommunications in Afghanistan following a nationwide blackout that has left many in the dark. This shutdown, ordered by the Taliban's supreme leader Hibatullah Akhundzada, aims to curb what they deem 'immorality.' The situation is critical as access to information and communication is essential for the Afghan people, especially in times of crisis. The UN's call highlights the importance of connectivity for human rights and development in the region.

In a controversial statement, President Trump has suggested that US cities should serve as military training grounds, warning military leaders of a looming 'war from within.' This alarming rhetoric raises concerns about the potential for military intervention in domestic affairs, which could have significant implications for civil liberties and public safety.

The article discusses the complex legacy of the Bagram airbase in Afghanistan, which has seen both Soviet and American military presence. With former President Trump expressing interest in reclaiming the base, the piece highlights the significant challenges that lie ahead. This matters because it reflects ongoing tensions and the difficulties of U.S. foreign policy in the region, as well as the implications for future military strategies.

In a recent speech to U.S. military leaders, Donald Trump suggested that Canada should become the '51st state' to gain free access to his proposed 'Golden Dome' missile defense system. This rhetoric highlights ongoing discussions about defense collaboration between the two nations, but it also raises questions about national sovereignty and the implications of such a union. As the U.S. and Canada navigate their defense strategies, Trump's comments could spark further debate on military alliances and regional security.

The U.N. mission has called on the Taliban to restore internet access in Afghanistan following a nationwide shutdown, the first since their return to power in August 2021. This outage is part of the Taliban's ongoing efforts to enforce their strict moral code, which raises concerns about freedom of expression and access to information in the country. The situation is critical as it affects not only communication but also the ability of citizens to access vital resources and connect with the outside world.

Afghanistan is experiencing a severe communications blackout as Taliban authorities have shut down internet and mobile phone services for the second consecutive day. This unprecedented move is part of a broader crackdown aimed at preventing what the Taliban deems 'vice.' The impact on daily life is significant, leaving many Afghans feeling isolated and disconnected. This situation raises concerns about freedom of communication and access to information in the country, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by the Afghan population since the Taliban regained control.

Former President Trump and Fox News host Pete Hegseth are set to meet with top military officers at Quantico, Virginia, where hundreds of military leaders have been summoned on short notice. This gathering highlights the ongoing relationship between military leadership and political figures, raising questions about the implications for national security and military policy.

Australia kicks off their title defense in the Women's Cricket World Cup against New Zealand in Indore. The match, held at Holkar Stadium, is set to start at 3 PM local time. This game is significant as it marks the beginning of the tournament for Australia, who are looking to maintain their championship status. Fans are encouraged to share their thoughts on the match.

The US government has officially shut down for the first time since 2018 after competing funding bills were rejected in the Senate. This shutdown is particularly concerning as it is expected to have a more severe impact on federal workers and services. The ongoing partisan conflict between Republicans and Democrats has led to this impasse, highlighting the challenges in reaching bipartisan agreements. This situation matters because it affects millions of Americans who rely on government services and the stability of the federal workforce.

PPE Medpro, a company linked to Baroness Mone, has been ordered by the court to repay £122 million in damages related to a PPE contract. This ruling highlights the ongoing scrutiny and legal challenges surrounding government contracts during the pandemic, raising questions about accountability and transparency in public spending.

The ringleader of a grooming gang in Rochdale has been sentenced to 35 years in prison for his role in the repeated rapes and assaults of two girls starting from the age of 13. This case highlights the ongoing issues of child exploitation and the importance of justice for victims, as it sheds light on the dark realities faced by vulnerable youth in communities.

Roy Schwartz critiques Trump's recent peace plan, which he argues is more of a fantasy than a feasible solution for the ongoing conflict in Gaza. While the plan promises a return to normalcy that many Israelis desire, it overlooks the complexities of the situation and the future of Gaza. This matters because it highlights the gap between political promises and the realities on the ground, raising questions about the effectiveness of such proposals in achieving lasting peace.

Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen has expressed grave concerns about Europe's current geopolitical landscape, describing it as the most challenging since World War II. She supports the European Commission's initiative to provide a reparation loan for Ukraine, backed by frozen Russian assets. Additionally, Latvian Prime Minister Siliņa emphasizes the urgency of advancing the EU's drone capabilities, countering criticism about the timeline for development. This situation highlights the pressing need for European unity and swift action in response to ongoing conflicts.