With the latest 45 fatalities in the past 24 hours, Pakistan has nearly reached the grim milestone of 1,000 casualties in rain-related accidents, which have been triggered by torrential rains and swirling floods across the country since mid-June.

Another 45 people were killed and dozens went missing in the past 24 hours as monsoon downpours and roaring floodwaters continued to pound the country, officials and local media reported.

With half of the South Asian nuclear country under water, the government announced a full-fledged deployment of the army in all four provinces, and the northern Gilgit-Baltistan region to back the civil administration, which is struggling to cope with the unprecedented magnitude of the catastrophe, state-run Pakistan Television reported.

Meanwhile the Turkish Foreign Ministry on Saturday released a statement, saying that they are "deeply saddened by the loss of many of our Pakistani brothers" as a result of the heavy damage caused by floods. Türkiye will send a plane carrying humanitarian aid to Pakistan "in order to heal the wounds of our Pakistani brothers who were affected by the flood," according to the statement.

The latest flooding caused by incessant rains displaced thousands more in northwestern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, southwestern Balochistan and southern Sindh provinces, adding to the already increasing number of victims.

Most of the fatalities were reported in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, followed by Sindh and Balochistan, pushing the overall toll to 982 since June 14, according to Pakistan's National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA).

However, at a press conference in Islamabad, Information Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb stated that the number was over 1,000.

The ongoing monsoon spells, combined with massive flash floods, have left 30 million Pakistanis without shelter, with tens of thousands displaced. Millions of people in flood-raked areas are without electricity and gas.

Raging waters from the Kabul River inundated Noshehra, Charsaddah and Madan districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, where the government has converted schools and government buildings into shelter camps for thousands of displaced people, local broadcaster Geo News reported.

Massive floods swept away hundreds of houses, restaurants, bridges, and even several multi-story hotels perched on the banks of the Swat River in the scenic Swat Valley, one of the favorite tourist attractions. At least 16 people lost their lives in rain-related accidents in the valley over the past 24 hours, the NDMA said.

The Indus and Gilgit rivers are in high floods, which may inundate more lands.

Because of the high flood in the Indus River, the administration has ordered the evacuation of several low-lying areas in Dera Ghazi Khan and Rajanpur districts of northeastern Punjab province.

Six more dams have burst their banks in different parts of Balochistan, submerging dozens of villages and farmlands.

The southwestern Chaman border crossing between Pakistan and Afghanistan remained closed due to heavy rains and flooding.

The week-long rains that already destroyed much of the infrastructure and agriculture in the otherwise arid province have come to an end in the eastern districts, bringing relief to tens of thousands of marooned people.​​​​​​​

AA

Three more ships have left Ukrainian ports under the Istanbul grain export deal, the Turkish National Defense Ministry said on Saturday. 

Shipments from Ukrainian ports are continuing, said ministry a statement, adding: "Three more ships loaded with grain departed from Ukrainian ports this morning."

In July, Türkiye, the UN, Russia, and Ukraine signed an agreement in Istanbul to resume grain exports from three Ukrainian Black Sea ports which were halted due to the Russia-Ukraine war, now in its seventh month.

A Joint Coordination Center with officials from the three countries and the UN was set up in Istanbul to oversee the shipments.

According to Ukrainian Infrastructure Minister Oleksandr Kubrakov, as of Friday, 44 ships have left Ukrainian ports under the deal, carrying a million tons of food to 15 countries worldwide.

"We are ready to increase our volumes to 3 M tons per month to prevent global food shortage," he wrote on Twitter.

AA

The UN children's agency UNICEF has condemned an Ethiopian air strike that "hit a kindergarten" in the rebel-held Tigray region, killing at least four people including two children.

"UNICEF strongly condemns the air strike ... (that) hit a kindergarten, killing several children, and injuring others," the agency's executive director Catherine Russell tweeted on Saturday.

"Yet again, an escalation of violence in northern Ethiopia has caused children to pay the heaviest price. For almost two years, children and their families in the region have endured the agony of this conflict. It must end."

The bombardment came just days after fighting erupted on Tigray's southern border between government forces and Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF) rebels, ending a five-month truce and dashing hopes of peace talks.

The TPLF said the air strike, the first in many months on Tigray, demolished a kindergarten and hit a civilian residential area.

The government said only military sites were targeted in Friday's air raid and accused the TPLF of "dumping fake body bags in civilian areas", staging deaths to maximise outrage.

War crimes

Kibrom Gebreselassie, chief clinical director at Mekele's Ayder Referral Hospital, said four people died in the strike, including two children. Nine others were receiving treatment for injuries, he added.

Tigrai TV, a local network, said the death toll had reached seven and broadcast footage of mangled playground equipment and a brightly painted compound in ruins at the apparent scene of the strike.

The claims could not be independently verified as access to northern Ethiopia is severely restricted.

The EU also condemned the strike and called for a peaceful settlement to the 21-month war.

"I urge again for the respect of International Humanitarian Law. Civilians are #NotATarget," the EU commissioner for crisis management, Janez Lenarcic, said on Twitter.

In March, the UN said at least 304 civilians had been killed in airstrikes in the three months prior in northern Ethiopia.

The UN human rights office has warned that disproportionate attacks against non-military targets could amount to war crimes.

Ethiopia's air force operates the only known military aircraft over the country's skies.

Source: AFP

Frank McKenzie, a former top general who led US Central Command from 2019 to April 2022, has said that Washington engaged in failed nation-building in Afghanistan and insisted on a Western model for the country which was wrong.

"We began to engage in nation-building operations and maybe some of that was necessary in a narrower sense to protect our interests but the broader things we did probably ultimately in the long term didn't help us. They diffused our efforts," McKenzie told NBC News on Friday.

"I don't know that Afghanistan is governable or sustainable with a Western model. I know that Afghanistan is governable and sustainable from an Afghan model. But we paid too little attention to Afghan realities on the ground," he said.

McKenzie said that overlooking the Afghan reality was costly and was a "hubris on our part, and on the international community."

He went on to say that he was "proud of" American men and women on the ground on the day of the controversial withdrawal from Afghanistan, when Afghans died trying to hold on to the plane. He said that the fact it was a highly politicised event was "regrettable."

"Military and diplomatic failures"

McKenzie admitted that getting Afghan allies out of the country is a very "slow" process but did not promise anything on that "moral obligation."

The top general agreed that Afghanistan was a bipartisan failure for four US administrations in two decades and added that it was a combination of "military and diplomatic failures."

Stressing that the war-torn country is still a breeding ground for threats to the US, he said it is still too early to say what is going to happen in Afghanistan. Extremist groups protected by the Taliban will pose new dangers for future US leadership, he said.

The US declared the completion of the Afghanistan pullout August 30, 2021, ending the 20-year war.

Source: AA

Informed sources have revealed that meetings that took place between the ministry of health and Health Assurance Hospitals Company (Dhaman) resulted in an agreement on accelerating the company’s plan to start operating its health centers to receive expatriates and start treating them there instead of government clinics and hospitals, as part of the health ministry’s plan to allocate its facilities to Kuwaitis only.

The sources indicated that the initial agreement was made for Dhaman to start receiving all workers in the private sector from next year, as its construction and equipment plan for its medical facilities is proceeding according to plan, pointing out that the ministry of health in the first stage will only receive expatriates working in the government sector at public clinics and hospitals. Later, they will also be prevented from treatment at government hospitals and will be treated in Dhaman hospitals.

The sources indicated that the health ministry indicated that Jaber Hospital is reserved for Kuwaitis only, and this will also be applied to the new Jahra Hospital, which has officially opened, as well as the new Farwaniya Hospital, whose first operational phase was recently inaugurated. This reservation will be implemented at all hospitals at a later stage, starting from Amiri Hospital, then Sabah Hospital.

The sources indicated that government hospitals can receive expats suffering from serious illnesses or involved in accidents, as these are urgent medical cases that cannot be delayed. They said health insurance for expatriates will be discussed and appropriate decisions will be taken, whereby a resident can choose to be treated at Dhaman hospitals or other private hospitals, provided this is within the conditions for obtaining or renewing their residency./KT

 His Highness the Prime Minister Sheikh Ahmad Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah welcomed at Seif Palace on Thursday Minister of Finance and State Minister for Economic Affairs and Investment Abdulwahab Al-Rushaid, Director-General of Kuwait Direct Investment Promotion Authority Sheikh Dr. Meshaal Jaber Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, Governor of Central Bank of Kuwait Basel Al-Haroon, Managing Director of Kuwait Investment Authority Ghanim Al-Ghenaiman and Deputy Director-General of Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development Emad Al-Naqib.

During the meeting, they addressed a host of economic issues aiming at achieving the state’s sustainable development and ambitious vision.

His Highness the Prime Minister underlined that in the coming stage, it is essential to count on and empower competent Kuwaiti young men and women in order to advance development, reflecting the country’s development vision and investing their energies to create a better future.

His Highness the Prime Minister’s Diwan Chief Abdulaziz Al-Dhakeel was present at the meeting./KUNA

A recent survey revealed that two-thirds or 66 percent of professionals in Kuwait prefer to work on their own or establish their own company, if given the opportunity. The results showed 51 percent of employees are currently considering establishing their own companies, while 32 percent stated that they tried to establish a private business in the past, while 10 percent of respondents said they had never thought about entrepreneurship before.

The survey by Bayt.com showed the reasons why professionals prefer private work is self-realization (55 percent) and achieving a balance between professional and personal life (49 percent), followed by large returns (42 percent) and establishing a company that can be passed on to children (42 percent). As for people who preferred to work in companies in Kuwait, whose percentage reached 25 percent, the main reasons for their preference were regular income (67 percent), learning new skills (43 percent) and job stability or security (33 percent).

Most attractive sectors

Fast-moving consumer goods (12 percent) and IT, internet and e-commerce (11 percent) are the most attractive sectors for entrepreneurs, followed by commerce/retail (10 percent) and real estate, construction and real estate development (10 percent).

Meanwhile, entrepreneurship continues to grow in Kuwait, despite the challenges entrepreneurs face when setting up their companies. The survey indicates that entrepreneurship is becoming more popular than ever, and many entrepreneurs are looking to grow their startups and establish businesses. In fact, 7 out of 10 respondents plan to hire new employees in the next year. The challenges that entrepreneurs in Kuwait face before establishing their companies include obtaining the capital needed to establish a business (60 percent), irregular returns (40 percent) and the fear of hiring people who do not have the right competencies (36 percent).

Guidance and support

The survey showed the benefits that entrepreneurship brings to societies and the economy as a whole. Entrepreneurs are viewed very positively in Kuwait, with respondents seeing that entrepreneurs are constantly looking for new opportunities (82 percent) and contributing to creating new jobs (79 percent).

Among the most important tips that respondents in the Middle East and North Africa gave to entrepreneurs is not to be afraid of failure (44 percent), and to develop an appropriate business plan (12 percent). In addition, more than a quarter of respondents believe that innovation is the key to success for entrepreneurs (30 percent), followed by hiring the right people (24 percent) and obtaining the necessary capital (22 percent)./KT

Car shopping website Edmunds "with over 50 years of experience" evaluates five cars that are being pulled off the market by their manufacturers.

Car website Edmunds evaluator Michael Cantu points out that there is always a flux of new vehicles on sale, with new models appearing on the market while some older models get discontinued.

The new models are promoted and hyped while the discontinued models disappear without much fanfare. Cantu says he is trying to inform consumers about cars going off the market before it's too late.

These discontinued models often get the ax because of slow sales. But not all are bad choices. Edmunds’ car experts highlight five notable models that are on the way out. This list is sorted by the manufacturer’s suggested retail price and includes the destination charge.

HYUNDAI ACCENT

The Accent has long served as Hyundai’s smallest and most affordable model. The sedan, which was once offered as a hatchback, had a long run in the United States, but shoppers have mostly lost interest in small cars. The Hyundai Venue, a small SUV, will become the brand’s lowest-priced vehicle once the Accent is discontinued.

The current Accent is a fine choice for an inexpensive commuter car or perhaps as a young driver’s first car. It has a comfortable ride and a roomy cabin, two qualities that aren’t always found in a vehicle at this price point. There are of course some drawbacks, including limited tech features and unsupportive seats. If you’re considering one, opt for the SEL trim for its larger touchscreen and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone connectivity.

Starting manufacturer’s suggested retail price: $17,740

FORD ECOSPORT

The EcoSport has only been available since the 2018 model year and spent all of its time toward the bottom of Edmunds’ SUV rankings. And since little SUVs don’t sell as well, it’s no surprise Ford is dropping it. It’s the brand’s smallest and most inexpensive SUV. When the EcoSport is discontinued after 2022, the much better Escape will be Ford’s smallest SUV.

If you’re in the market for a small SUV, you should probably look at one of the EcoSport’s rivals, or if you have the budget for it, get the Escape instead. When Edmunds tested it, our team complained about its poor ride quality, disappointing fuel economy and lack of advanced driver aids. Plenty of cargo space and an easy-to-use touchscreen interface are the only high points here.

Starting MSRP: $23,335

BUICK ENCORE

Like the EcoSport above, the Encore is a tiny and affordable SUV that Buick introduced for the 2013 model year in hopes of attracting younger buyers to the brand. It was never very competitive, however. Don’t let the badge fool you: The Encore isn’t as luxurious as other Buicks, hence its relatively low price tag. We like its quiet cabin and outward visibility, but when compared to rivals, it lacks cargo space and features and isn’t as fuel-efficient.

There is a silver lining, however. A few years ago Buick introduced the similar-size Encore GX. The GX might sound like a trim level, but it’s actually a completely different model, and it’s a more compelling choice for a small SUV thanks to its roomy interior and balanced ride and handling. If you’re shopping Buicks, look for the GX model.

Starting MSRP: $25,795

MERCEDES A-CLASS

It’s unfortunate that Mercedes decided to discontinue the A-Class after the 2022 model year because it’s one of Edmunds’ highest-rated small luxury sedans. Fortunately, the very similar CLA sedan and GLA SUV will be around and are similar in size and price. They are also just as good and have almost identical interiors and features.

The A-Class is currently Mercedes’ most affordable model yet boasts the excellent build quality, luxury and tech found in the brand’s larger and more expensive models. It’s entertaining to drive and comfortable and it has a helpful voice-command system. As with most small sedans, rear legroom is a little tight, but on the whole, this is a great entry-level luxury sedan to pick up on its way out.

Starting MSRP: $35,000

TOYOTA AVALON

You might think the discontinuation of the Avalon will make non-luxury large sedans even more scarce, but it’s being replaced by a high-riding hybrid sedan called the Crown. The departure of the Avalon might come as a shock to some because it’s been around since the mid-1990s and has been a reliable source of transportation for many families over the years.

The Avalon performed well in Edmunds’ testing. Not only is it very comfortable, but it’s also very enjoyable to drive thanks to its responsive handling, strong V6 and smooth-shifting transmission. The large sedan also boasts a sophisticated interior and offers plenty of tech. One of its few faults is its limited amount of rear headroom.

Starting MSRP: $37,920

EDMUNDS SAYS:

With many shoppers preferring sizable SUVs and crossovers, it’s no surprise that small SUVs and sedans make up this list. That narrows down the number of choices for shoppers, but you can’t blame automakers for delivering what’s in demand.

THUMBNAIL IMAGE: Hyundai Accent (Courtesy of Hyundai Motor America via AP)

HEADLINE IMAGE: Toyota Avalon (Courtesy of Toyota Motor Sales USA via AP)

Source: TRTWorld and agencies