US arming the Kurds

Reports say Syrian Kurdish forces which are backed by the United States have made significant advances against Daesh terrorists in Raqqah. The Syrian Democratic Forces – as they’re called – are believed to be close to seizing full control of the southern parts of the city – which is the defacto capital of Daesh. But that, of course, may not have been possible without the direct help of the United States. These images show how the US army has blatantly involved itself in the war in Syria. That would sooner or later draw the criticisms of the international community. And beyond that, it is the consequences of US military deployment to Syria – not only for Syria but also for its neighbors – which is increasingly becoming a source of concern.

Pakistan politics

There’s been a major upheaval in Pakistan’s politics. The country has seen an eventful week with the top official losing his post. Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif was ousted on Friday by the Supreme Court over corruption allegations. The top court has ordered a criminal probe into the Sharif family. Pakistani lawmakers have now elected a former petroleum minister to take the top job. Shahid Khaqan Abbasi, a long-time ally of Nawaz Sharif. He was elevated by the ruling Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz which holds a majority. It easily got its candidate through. The new premier’s term is expected to be very short because the ruling party wants him to hold the post until Sharif's brother, Shahbaz Sharif, can take the helm.