The planned joint military drill between the United States and South Korea known as 'Ulchi-Freedom Guardian' is reportedly heightening tension in the Korean Peninsula. Although both countries believe the annual 10-day military drills which will commence on August 21 are defensive in nature, North Korea leader, Kim Jong UN claims the military exercise may be intended to facilitate possible invasion of N. Korea. Kim who has called for the cancellation of the exercise warned that
Iran To Boost Tehran's Ballistic Missile Programme
Iran's parliament has reportedly voted overwhelmingly to boost budgetary allocation to Tehra's Intercontinental Ballistic Missile Programme and the Elite Revolutionary Guards. The Parliament which made this known on Sunday during a brief session stated that the move was in retaliation for new sanctions imposed by the United States Government. According to Al Jazeera, a total of 240 out of 244 Politicians voted in support of the release of $520m to strengthen nuclear programme as well as paramilitary troops.
Deadly Earthquake Hits Sichuan Province Of China
A 7.0 magnitude earthquake has killed at least 13 people and injured scores more in China's south-western province of Sichuan.
North Korea Vows To Deal With United States Over New Sanctions
North Korea has condemned the new sanctions approved by the United Nations describing them as "Flagrant Violation of the country's sovereignty". The country vowed to take necessary actions against the United States for masterminding the sanctions. North Korea's Foreign Minister, Ri Young Ho who made the statement at the ASEAN Regional Forum held on Monday said "Pyongyang's possession of nuclear weapons and intercontinental ballistic missiles is a legitimate option for self-defense in the face of a clear and real nuclear threat posed by the US".
UN Says Smugglers 'Deliberately Drowned' Up To 50 Migrants Off The Coast Of Yemen
The UN migration agency, International Organization for Migration (IOM), said on Wednesday that up to 50 migrants from Somalia and Ethiopia were "deliberately drowned" when a smuggler forced them into the sea off Yemen's coast, calling the incident "shocking and inhumane."
North Korea Says Considering Missile Strike On Guam
North Korea has said it is considering carrying out missile strikes on the US Pacific territory of Guam.
Al Jazeera Condemns Proposed Israel Ban, Threatens Court Action
Al Jazeera has condemned plans by Israeli Government to ban its operation in the country, stressing that the move runs contrary to its democratic tenets. The Qatar-based broadcaster stated that if Israel goes ahead to ban its operation, it will be left with no option than to take legal action.