Brief by Shorts91NewsDesk / 04:06am on 13 Mar 2025,Thursday International
In a daring rescue operation in Balochistan, Pakistani security forces successfully stormed the hijacked Jaffar Express, neutralizing all 33 Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) militants and rescuing hundreds of passengers. The crisis began when militants blew up the railway track and fired rockets at the train, which was carrying 440 passengers from Quetta to Peshawar. The assailants, some wearing suicide vests, demanded the release of Baloch political prisoners and threatened to execute hostages. The ensuing standoff resulted in the tragic loss of 21 passengers and four security personnel. The BLA, seeking greater autonomy and resource control in the region, has intensified attacks recently, highlighting ongoing unrest in Balochistan.
Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 07:16pm on 12 Mar 2025,Wednesday International
The Pakistan Army ended the Jaffar Express hostage crisis, freeing 346 passengers after an intense operation against Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) militants. The train, carrying 400 passengers from Quetta to Peshawar, was derailed and hijacked near Gudalar using explosives. The military confirmed the deaths of 33 militants, 21 passengers, and 4 paramilitary soldiers. Some attackers wore suicide vests, complicating the rescue. The army transported empty coffins to the site in preparation. "All terrorists have been eliminated, and hostages rescued," said army spokesperson Lt. Gen. Ahmad Sharif. The BLA has claimed responsibility for the attack.
Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 07:12pm on 12 Mar 2025,Wednesday International
A Carnegie-YouGov survey reveals that while 47% of Indian Americans believe India is on the right track, many fear strained US-India ties under Donald Trump. Most Democrats prefer Biden or Kamala Harris over Trump, with 66% of Indian-American Republicans backing him. The alleged Indian assassination plot in the US remains largely unnoticed, with only half aware of it. Despite political divides, Indian Americans remain culturally connected to India. The survey highlights shifting attitudes, with Democratic support declining from 56% in 2020 to 47% in 2024, signaling evolving political preferences within the community.
Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 06:24pm on 12 Mar 2025,Wednesday International
Pakistan's military killed all 33 Baloch insurgents who hijacked a train in Balochistan, ending a day-long standoff. The Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) had taken 212 passengers hostage, demanding prisoner releases. The military launched an aerial and ground assault, rescuing over 300 passengers. However, 21 civilians and 4 paramilitary soldiers were killed. Officials said insurgents used women and children as human shields. This marks the first time Baloch militants have attacked a passenger train. The attack follows intensified calls for Baloch independence from Pakistan and China’s influence. Security remains heightened in the volatile region.
Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 05:12pm on 12 Mar 2025,Wednesday International
Pakistan’s army freed over 300 hostages from a passenger train hijacked by Baloch militants in Balochistan. The military said 33 militants were killed in the operation. Before the rescue, the militants killed 21 civilians and four soldiers. The attackers, linked to the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), had demanded the release of Baloch political prisoners. They blew up tracks and fired at the train near a mountain tunnel. Some passengers escaped and walked for hours to safety. The hijacking lasted over 30 hours. The military is still searching the area and vowed to bring all attackers to justice.
Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 05:07pm on 12 Mar 2025,Wednesday International
Canada has announced new 25% tariffs on US steel, aluminium, and consumer goods worth C$30 billion. This comes after Donald Trump doubled tariffs on Canadian imports. Finance Minister Dominic LeBlanc said Canada will not stay silent while its industries are unfairly targeted. Foreign Minister Melanie Joly called the US tariffs “unjustified” and said she would raise the issue at a G7 meeting. Trump, upset over Ontario’s electricity surcharge, also threatened to increase car import tariffs, which could harm Canada’s auto industry. The new Canadian tariffs will take effect from Thursday, matching the US measures “dollar for dollar.”
Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 04:27pm on 12 Mar 2025,Wednesday International
The Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) has claimed responsibility for hijacking the Jaffar Express in Balochistan, Pakistan, taking over 200 passengers hostage. In retaliation for a Pakistani military offensive, the BLA announced the execution of 50 hostages and issued a 20-hour ultimatum for the government to cease military operations and release Baloch prisoners. Pakistani security forces have reportedly rescued 190 passengers, with ongoing operations resulting in significant casualties among militants. The BLA has threatened further executions if their demands are not met within the stipulated timeframe.
A bizarre 'blood rain' has washed the landscape in red in Iran. pic.twitter.com/PTMk4TgdOK
— Daily Mail Online (@MailOnline) March 12, 2025
Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 02:48pm on 12 Mar 2025,Wednesday International
Tourists on Iran’s Hormuz Island witnessed a rare phenomenon as heavy rain turned the Silver and Red Beach blood red. The spectacle, caused by the island’s iron oxide-rich volcanic soil mixing with seawater, created vivid red waves. Footage shared on Instagram amassed 29 million likes, with users calling it "incredibly beautiful." The soil, known locally as "Golgohar," is used in industries, cosmetics, and even food. The Iran Tourism and Touring Organisation highlights its significance in local culture. Scientists say such events are natural but rare, attracting curious visitors worldwide. [Video Courtesy:X/MailOnline]
Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 02:41pm on 12 Mar 2025,Wednesday International
A study published in BMJ Mental Health reveals ADHD prescriptions in England have risen 18% yearly since 2020, increasing from 25 per 1,000 people to 41.55 in 2023/24. London saw the highest annual rise at 28%. Researchers attribute the surge to greater awareness via social media and increased psychological stress. Methylphenidate remains the most prescribed drug, while lisdexamfetamine saw a 55% annual increase. Experts urge policymakers to address regional and socioeconomic disparities in ADHD care access. The findings highlight growing demand amid long referral wait times.
Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 01:58pm on 12 Mar 2025,Wednesday International
British tourist Daniel-James Hallett, 38, was arrested in Thailand for allegedly attempting to smuggle 38kg of cannabis onto a London-bound flight. Thai officials discovered 35 vacuum-sealed bags in his luggage at Krabi International Airport. Hallett, a Hull-based tanker driver, faces up to 10 years in prison if convicted under Thailand’s strict drug laws. Superintendent Apichat Jinaphen warned, "Importing or exporting cannabis without permission is illegal." Authorities urge tourists to follow regulations after multiple similar cases involving British nationals. Hallett remains in custody as court proceedings continue.