houthis strike yemen
| | | |

Houthis strike Yemen forces, 10 killed in Marib

MARIB: At least 10 people, including eight members of Yemen’s government-aligned security forces and two civilians, were killed in fresh Houthi attacks in the oil-rich Marib province, raising fresh concerns over a possible escalation in the country’s fragile security situation.

According to local officials and military sources, Houthi fighters targeted positions held by forces loyal to Yemen’s internationally recognised government with missiles and drones. The attacks reportedly struck several military locations in Marib, a strategically important province that has remained a major focal point in Yemen’s long-running conflict.

The latest violence comes despite a significant reduction in large-scale fighting across Yemen in recent years. The renewed attacks have therefore sparked concerns that the relative calm could be disrupted and that low-intensity clashes could once again develop into broader military confrontations.

Reports also indicated that Houthi attacks in Marib and neighbouring Hadramout on Friday resulted in additional casualties, suggesting that the latest violence may be part of a wider increase in militant activity across government-held areas.

Marib holds particular strategic importance because of its oil and gas resources as well as its location. Control of the province has long been a key objective for both the Yemeni government and the Houthis.

The latest strikes have added to fears of a new escalation in Yemen, where years of conflict have already caused a severe humanitarian crisis. Any renewed fighting around Marib could carry wider consequences because of the province’s economic resources and military significance.

The Houthis, who control large parts of northern and western Yemen including the capital Sanaa, have been involved in a prolonged conflict with government forces and their allies.

The fresh deaths underline the continuing fragility of Yemen’s security environment and could test efforts to preserve the relative calm that has emerged after years of intense fighting.

Similar Posts

  • |

    Former India captain Sourav Ganguly and wife receive death threats

    KOLKATA: Former India captain and ex-BCCI president Sourav Ganguly and his wife, Dona Ganguly, have reportedly received death threats, prompting police to launch an investigation into a series of threatening letters sent to the family. According to Indian media reports, a fresh threatening letter was opened on Monday at the office of the president of the Bengal Cricket Association. The letter was reportedly written entirely in English and contained threats against Ganguly and his family. The latest incident has raised concern because the family has allegedly been receiving similar letters for around six months. Initially, the messages were reportedly dismissed as letters from overzealous or unhappy fans. However, the increasingly aggressive language and repeated threats eventually prompted the family to approach police. A formal written complaint has been submitted to the local police station by Ganguly’s family. The state government’s security department has also reportedly been informed, with the family seeking appropriate security measures. The complaint stated that unknown individuals had previously sent letters containing offensive and objectionable remarks about the former India captain. At first, the messages were believed to be linked to personal resentment or someone unhappy with Ganguly. The situation took a more serious turn when two recent letters addressed to Sourav and Dona Ganguly reportedly contained threatening language targeting not only the couple but also people working with them. Police sources said their preliminary inquiry indicated that the threatening letters had been sent by courier to Ganguly’s residence. Authorities have assured Ganguly’s personal assistant that an investigation is underway and that necessary steps are being taken to ensure the safety of the former cricketer and his family. Ganguly, one of India’s most influential cricket figures, served as national captain before later becoming BCCI president. The latest threats have now placed his family under increased security attention as investigators work to identify those behind the letters.

  • | |

    Iran says Oman deal nears completion but insists U…

    Iran said on Sunday that a deal with Oman establishing new shipping lanes through the Strait of Hormuz has entered its final stages, though Tehran maintained the critical waterway will remain closed until Washington satisfies a broader set of conditions tied to the ongoing standoff between the two countries. A US official told Reuters on Friday that an agreement between Iran and Oman appeared close and could soon lead to the reopening of the strait, a passage that carried roughly a fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas shipments before Iran shut it down in response to American and Israeli military strikes earlier this year. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi confirmed on Sunday that negotiations over the strait, which sits between Iran and Oman, had reached their final stages. However, he repeated comments made a day earlier stressing that the waterway would not reopen unless additional conditions set by Tehran were met first. Iran’s Mehr news agency quoted Araqchi as saying the emerging agreement would establish the new shipping lanes to be used once the United States fulfils those conditions and the strait formally reopens. Araqchi said Iran and the United States are not currently engaged in direct talks and that Tehran has no plans to begin them as long as Washington continues to breach an interim agreement the two countries signed in June. He added that messages between the two sides are being exchanged through intermediaries rather than direct contact. Iran demands compensation and sanctions relief The United States launched air strikes against Iran in late February, saying the campaign aimed to prevent the Islamic Republic from acquiring nuclear weapons or using missiles and regional proxy forces to threaten the wider Middle East. Washington and Tehran agreed to a ceasefire in June, but the United States reimposed a blockade on Iranian shipping in the Gulf in July, a move Iran characterised as a violation of a truce that had already shown signs of collapse. A US official, speaking to Reuters on condition of anonymity, said the blockade on Iranian ports would lift once a deal restoring unimpeded commercial shipping is formally announced. The official added that any American actions would remain directly tied to Iran fulfilling its own commitments under the emerging agreement, pointing to a carefully sequenced approach that both sides appear to be navigating cautiously. The arrangement under discussion appeared, according to sources who previously spoke to Reuters, to grant Tehran a degree of control over vessels entering the Gulf through the strait, an arrangement that shipping industry sources have said would be difficult to implement in practice. The precise current status of the agreement remained unclear on Sunday, and Iran’s latest statements suggested several additional factors could still complicate its finalisation. Araqchi said the strait’s reopening would depend in part on the United States providing compensation to Iran for what Tehran describes as widespread attacks on its territory and interests. Mohammad Baqer Zolqadr, secretary of Iran’s top national security body, outlined a broader list of demands, including an end to US threats against Iran, a halt to what Tehran calls aggression against its allies in Lebanon, the Palestinian territories, Yemen and Iraq, the lifting of the shipping blockade and broader sanctions, and the release of frozen Iranian financial assets. Supreme Leader’s condition remains unclear Ultimate decision making authority in Iran rests with Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei, who has not appeared in public since an air strike killed his father and predecessor on February 28, the first day of the joint US and Israeli air campaign against Iran. State media reported on Sunday that Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian met with Khamenei in late July, and a paramilitary leader promised that footage of the supreme leader would soon be released publicly. Khamenei was reportedly injured in the same strike that killed his father, according to earlier reporting. Separately, the United Arab Emirates said on Saturday that Iran had attacked a vessel affiliated with its state oil company. Iran did not immediately respond to the allegation. The country’s powerful Revolutionary Guards have attacked commercial vessels in the past, arguing that ships transiting the strait without coordinating their passage with Iranian authorities are not protected from such action. Houthi attacks widen regional shipping crisis Iran’s strikes on shipping in the Strait of Hormuz have coincided with intensified attacks from its Yemen based allies, the Houthis, who have targeted vessels at a separate chokepoint located between the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden on the opposite side of the Arabian Peninsula. The Houthis declared a naval blockade against Saudi Arabia in the Red Sea last month, framing the move as retaliation for what they described as a Saudi imposed siege in Yemen, an accusation the Saudi government has firmly denied. Riyadh continues to back Yemen’s internationally recognised government in the country’s ongoing conflict. The group claimed responsibility for an attack on Saudi Aramco’s Jazan refinery on Sunday, coming just two days after the kingdom signed a defence pact with fellow Sunni Muslim majority nations Turkey and Pakistan amid growing concern over regional instability stemming from the US and Israeli military campaign against Shiite led Iran. Saudi Arabia’s energy ministry confirmed that a fire broke out at the refinery following the attack but was later extinguished without causing any injuries, and that authorities were continuing to manage the aftermath of the incident. The ministry did not specify a cause for the blaze. Houthi military spokesperson Yahya Saree said on social media platform X that the group used a drone to strike the facility. The Houthis have targeted Aramco sites in Jazan before, a refinery that processes approximately 400,000 barrels of crude oil daily in southwestern Saudi Arabia. It remains unclear whether or to what extent Pakistan or Turkey would participate in any Saudi response to the latest attack. Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan said the newly formed alliance between the three countries was not directed against Iran or any other nation, describing it instead as a general commitment to

  • | | | |

    Russia, COMSTECH seek stronger cooperation in scie…

    Russia and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation’s Standing Committee on Scientific and Technological Cooperation (COMSTECH) have discussed new opportunities to expand collaboration in science, technology and higher education. Russian Ambassador Albert P. Khorev received a COMSTECH delegation on August 12. The delegation was led by COMSTECH Coordinator General Professor Dr M. Iqbal Choudhary. The meeting focused on strengthening cooperation between Russia and COMSTECH, particularly in areas of scientific research and academic development. Russia participates in the OIC as an observer state. Professor Iqbal Choudhary highlighted existing cooperation between COMSTECH and Russian institutions. He specifically mentioned collaboration with Kazan Federal University and the Russian Association of Earthquake Engineering and Protection against Natural and Man-Made Hazards. The participants identified considerable potential for expanding academic links between the two sides. They discussed stronger partnerships between universities, increased scholarship opportunities and joint research projects in fundamental sciences. Both sides also stressed the need to speed up implementation of initiatives previously agreed upon under their bilateral working mechanism. These initiatives were discussed during the first meeting of the Working Group on Cooperation between COMSTECH and the Russian Federation in science, technology and higher education. The meeting was held in Kazan on May 13, 2026, on the sidelines of the international economic forum Russia–Islamic World: KazanForum. Ambassador Khorev reaffirmed Moscow’s interest in expanding its engagement with the OIC and Muslim-majority countries. He also highlighted the importance of cooperation with Pakistan. The participants noted that stronger scientific and academic links between Russia and COMSTECH could also contribute to closer Russia-Pakistan relations, particularly through education, research and technological cooperation. The two sides agreed to maintain regular communication and provide necessary support for implementing joint initiatives and projects.

  • | | |

    Pakistan Independence Day celebrated at New York C…

    NEW YORK: Pakistan’s Independence Day was celebrated at the historic New York City Hall this year in a landmark event highlighting the growing presence and contributions of the Pakistani-American community. The ceremony marked the first time that Pakistan’s Independence Day celebrations were held inside New York City Hall, making it a notable occasion for the Pakistani diaspora and a significant moment in Pakistan-US community relations. The event was jointly organised by New York City Council Speaker Julie Menin and Council Member Linda Lee, with support from the American Pakistani Advocacy Group (APAG). Pakistan’s Consul General in New York, Aamer Ahmed Atozai, addressed the gathering and praised APAG and the participating elected representatives for their efforts in arranging the historic celebration. He described the event as a proud and memorable moment for Pakistani-Americans and said holding the ceremony at City Hall reflected the organisers’ strong connection with Pakistan. A large number of Pakistani-Americans, elected officials, community representatives and members of the media attended the ceremony. Speaking at the event, Speaker Julie Menin acknowledged the valuable contributions of the Pakistani-American community to New York City. She highlighted the community’s role in the city’s development while maintaining strong ties with both Pakistan and the United States. Other lawmakers and speakers also commended the Pakistani-American community for its dedication, resilience and continued contributions. They highlighted its role as an important bridge between Pakistan and the United States and recognised its growing influence in the city’s civic, economic and social life. The historic celebration at New York City Hall underscored the increasing significance of the Pakistani-American community and its positive contributions to New York, while also highlighting the enduring people-to-people ties between Pakistan and the United States. Moreover, Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts to promote peace and stability, including its role in mediating during the recent US-Iran tensions, were highlighted at an Independence Day ceremony held at Pakistan House in New York. Speaking at the event, Pakistan’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad, said Pakistan had consistently sought peaceful solutions amid growing international instability and conflicts. He urged renewed commitment to the country’s founding principles, sovereignty, security, peace and socio-economic progress. The ambassador paid tribute to Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, describing him as a visionary statesman whose leadership led to the creation of Pakistan. Reflecting on the country’s journey since independence, he praised the resilience and achievements of Pakistanis despite significant challenges. Ahmad also commended the armed forces for their sacrifices in defending the country and protecting its people, while recognising the achievements of Pakistanis abroad in fields ranging from innovation and sports to the arts. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s diplomatic and political support for the people of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir and for the rights of Palestinians. He also stressed the importance of combating terrorism while advancing economic development and national progress. Consul General Aamer Ahmad Atozai also paid tribute to the leaders and workers of the Pakistan Movement, emphasising that freedom carries both a legacy and a responsibility. He highlighted the Pakistani-American community’s contributions through investment, remittances, philanthropy and expertise, describing it as an important bridge between Pakistan and the United States. The ceremony featured the hoisting of the Pakistani flag and the national anthem, while messages from Pakistan’s leadership were also read out. Addressing children at the gathering, Ambassador Ahmad described them as the country’s future and called for collective efforts to build a peaceful, prosperous and inclusive Pakistan. The event concluded with calls for greater national unity and continued commitment to peace, diplomacy and Pakistan’s progress on the global stage.

  • | |

    Foreign Office extends consular services to evenin…

    The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has introduced an evening shift for consular services to make it easier for citizens to access essential facilities outside conventional office hours. Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar announced the new arrangement on Monday. Under the revised schedule, consular services will now remain available from 8am to 8pm, Monday through Friday. The extended hours are aimed at improving access to services and making the process more convenient for applicants who cannot visit government offices during normal working hours. The Foreign Office said the initiative is part of its broader effort to improve public service delivery and make consular facilities more citizen-friendly. Previously, consular services were generally available during standard government office hours. This created difficulties for people with work commitments and for overseas Pakistanis who needed to visit the ministry for documentation and other consular matters. The new evening shift will provide applicants with additional time to complete their requirements and access relevant services. The ministry has also issued a public notice outlining the revised working hours and arrangements for consular services. The Foreign Office said the initiative reflects its focus on improving efficiency, accessibility and the overall experience of citizens seeking consular assistance.

  • | | | |

    US ‘locked and loaded’ as Iran talks continue

    US President Donald Trump has said Washington is engaged in direct talks with Iran, signalling that diplomacy remains active despite rising tensions in the Middle East. However, he warned that the United States remains fully prepared for military action if negotiations fail. Speaking at the White House, Trump said discussions with Tehran are ongoing and described Iranian officials as becoming “very serious” in the negotiations. He stressed that while the US is not rushing to reach an agreement, preventing Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon remains a top priority. The US president also stated that a previously mentioned “massive” military strike against Iran may not be necessary if diplomatic efforts produce results. Nevertheless, he made it clear that American forces remain on high alert and are fully prepared to respond if required. Trump said senior administration officials, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Vice President JD Vance, are involved in the ongoing diplomatic contacts with Iran. He did not provide further details about the negotiations or any possible timeline for an agreement. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi responded by saying Tehran would not be intimidated by threats or external pressure. Speaking during a regional meeting in Kyrgyzstan, he said Iran would continue defending its national interests and would not change its policies under pressure. Meanwhile, regional tensions remain high. Air raid sirens were reported in Bahrain as Iran claimed it continued targeting US military bases in Bahrain, Kuwait and Jordan. The situation has added to concerns over a wider conflict in the Gulf region. The Saudi-led coalition also announced military operations against Houthi positions in Yemen. Coalition officials said the strikes targeted military sites, while Houthi media reported damage to telecommunications and port facilities in Hodeidah and claimed that one civilian was injured. Violence also escalated in the occupied West Bank, where clashes involving Israeli settlers and Palestinians left several people dead. Rights groups have urged the international community to take immediate steps to prevent further violence and protect civilians.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *