Latest news with #terrorists
Daily Mail
7 hours ago
- Politics
- Daily Mail
EXCLUSIVE Tories demand inquiry into Keir Starmer's National Security chief Jonathan Powell over secret taxpayer-funded talks with 'rogue states'
One of Sir Keir Starmer 's most powerful advisers was last night accused of running secret diplomatic back channels to 'terrorists' using his own taxpayer-funded team of 'outsourced spies and spooks'. Jonathan Powell, the Prime Minister's National Security Adviser, founded the shadowy organisation after he left Tony Blair 's Downing Street, where he was chief of staff when the infamous 'dodgy dossier' helped to propel Britain into war with Iraq. The outfit, Inter Mediate, receives funding from the Foreign Office for making contact with 'non-state armed groups', and is understood to have brokered the UK's deal with Syria which led to the re-establishment of diplomatic relations earlier this month. Mr Powell, 68, who stood down as the charity's £200,000-a-year chief executive when he returned to No 10 in November, also brokered the hugely controversial deal to surrender UK sovereignty over the strategically important Chagos Islands to Mauritius earlier this year. The move comes amid claims that the Blairites, led by Mr Powell and Liz Lloyd – his deputy in Tony Blair's administration and now Sir Keir's director of policy delivery – are trying to mount a 'power grab' within Starmer's administration. Diplomatic sources say that Inter Mediate played a central role in re-establishing relations with the Syrian government, which is led by former Islamists with links to Al Qaeda. After the deal was brokered earlier this month, Foreign Secretary David Lammy flew to meet President Ahmed al-Sharaa in Damascus, where Inter Mediate is said to operate an office inside the presidential palace. The interim government has become embroiled in deadly clashes with Druze militias in the southern part of the country, prompting Israel to mount retaliatory raids on Damascus. Last night, a senior Tory called for a Parliamentary investigation into why Mr Powell has been given 'special adviser' status, rather than being a direct ministerial appointment. That means he does not have to answer to Parliament, despite his role in dealing directly with foreign governments and negotiating the handover of the Chagos. Alex Burghart, Shadow Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, said: 'Not being able to question the national security adviser on his role in the Chagos surrender is outrageous enough. 'But it now turns out that he is using his private outfit to run back channels to terrorist groups. Parliament must surely be able to question him about this. If the Government has nothing to hide, it wouldn't be trying so hard to keep Mr Powell away from the cold light of scrutiny. 'Labour must come clean and explain themselves at once.' Inter Mediate displays Mr Powell prominently on its website, highlighting his role as 'a key architect of the 1999 Good Friday Agreement' in Northern Ireland. It says that he founded the organisation in order 'to share lessons from the Northern Ireland peace talks and help other leaders navigating similar dilemmas'. The website also says Mr Powell used his experience to 'play a central role in further successful peace accords', including the end of the Basque conflict in Spain, serving as a 'peace adviser' to President Juan Manuel Santos of Colombia and working alongside Mozambique's President Filipe Nyusi to end the country's civil war. Less welcome headlines came over Mr Powell's role in the infamous 2002 dossier into Iraq's non-existent weapons of mass destruction, when it was revealed that he asked a security chief to make changes to a draft version because it posed 'a bit of a problem' for Tony Blair's Downing Street. The most recent accounts for Inter Mediate, which was founded by Mr Powell in 2011, highlight a 'greater commitment from the FCDO [Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office] through a new partnership agreement with the office of conflict, stabilisation and mediation'. Government spending records show that Inter Mediate is bankrolled by the UK Government to provide back channels to 'non-state armed groups' due to its 'high-level access to political elites'. The accounts, published in January, put its total income for the year to March 2024 at £2.96 million with the highest paid staff member – presumed to be Mr Powell – earning between £190,000 and £200,000. A Whitehall source said: 'These are essentially outsourced spies and spooks undertaking 'back channel' discussions with political leaders and armed groups to reach negotiated settlements.' In a letter to Simon Hoare, chairman of the public administration and constitutional affairs committee, Mr Burghart says Mr Powell should respond to the call to give evidence to Parliament's joint committee on the national security strategy (JCNSS), given that 'every previous national security adviser has appeared before the committee since the position was established in 2010'. Mr Burghart writes: 'I believe that this raises important constitutional matters that would be worthy of wider scrutiny by Parliament. 'The first duty of Government is defence of the realm: yet the Government does not wish the Prime Minister's principal adviser on national security to be scrutinised.' A Government spokesman said: 'The Government is committed to having a productive relationship with the JCNSS, and providing the best support and evidence to help it in its important work. In line with longstanding practice, senior civil servants and ministers with national security responsibility will provide evidence to the JCNSS.' A Government source added that Mr Powell's deputies would appear before the committee. They added: 'There is an established system in place for the declaration and management of financial interests. As has been the case under successive administrations, interests deemed relevant for publication for special advisers in No 10 and the Cabinet Office are published on an annual basis. 'Inter Mediate is a charity which works to resolve armed conflicts around the world. 'Jonathan severed all links with it when he rejoined Government last year.'
Yahoo
13 hours ago
- Politics
- Yahoo
IDF kills terrorists, destroys tunnels in Gaza, Lebanon strikes
One of the Hezbollah terrorists killed was identified as Hassan Ahmed Sabra, a commander in the terror group's naval force. The IDF targeted and killed two Hezbollah terrorists in south Lebanon on Thursday morning, the military confirmed. This included Hassan Ahmed Sabra, a commander in the terror group's naval force, near Kafra, in south Lebanon, the military noted. Another Hezbollah terrorist, responsible for attempts to restore Hezbollah's infrastructure near Nakoura was also killed in Israeli strikes, the military added. IDF publishes footage of two strikes on Hezbollah terrorists in Lebanon, July 17, 2025. (credit: IDF SPOKESPERSON'S UNIT) The IDF published footage of the two strikes later on Thursday. IDF kills Gaza terror cell, dismantles north Gaza terror tunnel Additionally, the IDF soldiers dismantled a terror tunnel which was approximately 800 meters long and 18 meters deep, located in northern Gaza. IDF publishes footage of strike on RPG-armed terrorist in Gaza, July 2025. (credit: IDF SPOKESPERSON'S UNIT) At some time over the past week, soldiers from the IDF's Commando Brigade identified a terror cell armed with a rocket-propelled grenade aimed towards IDF soldiers. They coordinated with an Israel Air Force aircraft, which carried out strikes to kill the terrorists, the military added. In addition, the IDF dismantled weapons, observation posts, and military structures belonging to terror organizations in the Gaza Strip, including a weapons storage facility where Hamas terrorists were hiding.
Daily Mail
2 days ago
- Daily Mail
TSA warns travelers about prohibited carry-on items
By Published: Updated: TSA has reminded travelers that liquid restrictions are still in place, despite some policies being lifted in recent weeks. The organization issued a warning on X alerting customers that liquids, gels and aerosols must be 3.4oz or less in carry-on bags. Travelers have been divided over the change, primarily because of their hatred for the liquid limitations after personal experiences. 'TSA steals and ruins what's left of a vacation. I had a jar of honey from France, less than 3.4 oz. You should have seen the agents eyes lite up as she stole my only jar. They laughed and took it home,' an X user claimed. 'I'd rather take my shoes off if it means I can bring the whole bottle of my specialty shampoo in my carry on without having to ration it out on a two week trip,' another person wrote. After years of liquid limit frustration, that rule could soon go away now that the Department of Homeland Security is questioning the limit. Like the former 'shoes-off' policy, the beverage limits were enforced by TSA in 2006. It was one of several rules created in response to the September 11 attacks. However, the liquid limit was inspired by a 2006 liquid bomb plot in the UK, which put thousands of lives at risk. The foiled plan was for terrorists to place liquid bombs disguised as soft drinks on at least seven transatlantic flights that were set to explode midflight. If the first phase of the plan was a success, they would then initiate attacks on skyscrapers in London's Canary Wharf, the Greenwich foot tunnel, nuclear power stations, oil refineries and gas terminals. The plan was not a success and it led to the arrest of several criminals, many of which were sentenced to life in prison. But the bomb plot was enough for TSA to initiate immediate action, leading to the liquid limit for everything from food and drinks to hair products. While some airports in Europe had scrapped the rule in recent years, they returned last year after new security scanners experienced a 'technical issue.' The carry-on liquid limit is back in limbo in the US due to opinions over the policy from Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem. 'I will tell you, I mean, the liquids [rule] I am questioning,' Noem told NewsNation chief Washington Correspondent Blake Burman at the inaugural Hill Nation Summit. 'So that may be the next big announcement is what size your liquids need to be. We're looking at it.' TSA has already implemented a change for 10 US airport security experiences, which includes the addition of new expedited lanes and discounts to 'enhance the travel experience for members of the U.S. military community.' TSA has also begun offering a $25 discount on TSA PreCheck enrollment for spouses of military and uniformed service members.
Yahoo
3 days ago
- Politics
- Yahoo
'We are witnessing terrible atrocities,' Israeli Druze says from within Syria
"The minute we see terrorists going into hospitals and murdering children and patients, we cannot stand idle," Fares Alawi told the Israeli news site. Israel-Druze political activist Fares Alawi crossed the border into Syria on Wednesday, he told N12 News Site. 'Our objective is to enter as deeply as possible. We're trying to protect our brothers, to save them from the horrendous massacre… We are witnessing terrible atrocities, images, and clips. We cannot stand silent in the face of that,' Alawi told N12 in a phone call. 'I am grateful to Israel. I am thankful for any help. But the Druze have been here for thousands of yearsin Syria, in Israel, and Lebanon. The Druze are a strong people, a people who share blood and defend each other. We thank you for the aid. We ask for more help and more defense. 'But the minute we see terrorists going into hospitals and murdering children and patients, we cannot stand idle. With all due respect to the [IDF] military personnel here, I understand and respect you. But this has gone too far,' Alawi told N12. When pressed on whether the Druze entering Syria is a distraction for the IDF, which is focused on comprehensive operations and defending the Druze, Alawi said that Israel's efforts have been insufficient. ''There have been talks about this twice, three times, and unfortunately, we've waited only to see our brothers slaughtered. We have called on the State of Israel, the government, and the prime minister to come to a decision and make good on their promises. 'We had no choice but to stand up and make a decision to take matters into our own hands and help our brothers,' Alawi resolved, according to N12. Alawi declined to say whether or not he was armed, but added that the Druze who entered Syria went 'to go as far as we can and save our brothers just like a Jew would defend another Jew….' Defending Syrian Druze 'There are thousands near the border with Israel. Like I said, just as a Jew has the right to defend another Jew in Argentina or the US, we are here to defend the Druze,' he continued. While in Syria, Alawi said that he sees 'our relatives' homes, our brothers' homes. I am seeing faces I haven't seen in decades. It is fun to see them and meet them, and very moving to see our relatives. But we have come here very motivated and empowered to help our brothers.' 'There are many sick and wounded among the Syrians. We are also calling to help them and bring them in. We are law-abiding. We have not come here to break the law. We are certainly not here to fight with the army and security forces.' Alawi concluded by thanking the news site for interviewing him and shining a light on his perspective for the 'decision makers' to see. Solve the daily Crossword
The Independent
5 days ago
- Politics
- The Independent
MPs slam ‘disgraceful' rollback of Northern Ireland veterans legislation
MPs have warned of a 'disgraceful' rollback of Northern Ireland veterans legislation which could lead to six-figure payouts to terrorists. A debate over withdrawing the legal protections established by the Northern Ireland Troubles (Legacy and Reconciliation) Act, which shield veterans from being prosecuted for historic actions between 1969 and 2007 during Operation Banner, took place at Westminster Hall on Monday. MPs critical of the move suggested it would open a 'witch-hunt' against veterans who served to protect citizens across communities in Northern Ireland. The debate followed a public petition against repealing the legislation which attracted more than 170,000 signatures. Conservative MP John Lamont, who opened the parliamentary session, said the rollback could lead to 'two-tier' payouts for figures such as former Republican politician Gerry Adams. Mr Lamont said: '[The change] could result in a six-figure payout for Mr Adams, simply because his interim custody order was not considered by the secretary of state, but rather a junior minister. 'That is simply outrageous. 'We have seen a lot of examples of two-tier justice since the Labour government came to power, but this may simply be the worst of all. 'Is the Government really contemplating creating a system to drag northern Irish veterans through the courts, whilst potentially paying millions to terrorists? 'We should also be clear about the differences between the actions of soldiers and terrorists. When terrorists get up in the morning, they go out with murderous intent to use violence to attack our democracy. Soldiers do not. 'The Legacy Act is by no means perfect, but it is better than the disgraceful spectacle of veterans being dragged through the courts. 'Doing so is not sustainable – legally or morally.' Others echoed Mr Lamont's comments, highlighting the implications the rollback could have on the armed forces in future conflicts. Conservative MP Sir David Davis argued the change would mean that British soldiers would be abandoned by the country they served. He said: 'Getting this right is not just a matter of historical justice. 'The legal witch-hunt won't end in Northern Ireland. 'It'll cast a shadow over every future conflict that our armed forces engage in, and undermine their abilities to defend us.' He added: 'Those who freely talk about human rights would do well to remember that our rights, our law, our democracy and our nation were protected by the very veterans that are at risk today. 'So let us all make one promise, that no British soldier will ever again be abandoned by the nation they have so bravely protected.' Other MPs voiced their support in favour of the Government's proposals, arguing that the current act is not fit for purpose. Labour MP Louise Jones suggested that the lack of support for the legislation among victims, politicians across parties in Northern Ireland, and veterans themselves meant it ought to be repealed. She said: 'This Legacy Act has been found to be unlawful. It gives immunity to terrorists, and it denies justice to the families of the 200 service personnel that were murdered by terrorists during the Troubles. 'It is not supported in its current form by victims, it's not supported by a Northern Irish party, and many veterans are troubled by it. It must go and be replaced, and I call on the minister to outline how we can protect veterans from malicious lawfare of any conflict.' 'We have a huge duty here in Westminster to work with those communities not against them, and I hope everyone here will reflect on that important undertaking.' Northern Ireland Secretary Hilary Benn pointed to statistics from the Centre for Military Justice that show that only one British soldier has been convicted since the Good Friday Agreement in 1998. He suggested that this was the case over the 27 years, despite immunity for British military personnel not being enshrined in law for the majority of this time. Mr Benn also argued that the changes would allow incomplete investigations into the deaths of soldiers to reopen. He said: 'Legacy is hard. This is the unfinished business of the Good Friday agreement. 'And that is why we need to listen to the many families who lost loved ones, including the families of British service personnel, who served so bravely. 'There are more than 200 families of UK military personnel who are still searching for answers 30, 40, 50 years ago about the murder of their loved ones. 'The Police Service of Northern Ireland recently confirmed they had 202 live investigations into Troubles-related killings of members of our armed forces, and a further 23 into the killings of veterans. 'Each and every one of those investigations was forced to close by the Legacy Act, and we will bring forward legislation to deal with that. 'The other challenge is the lack of confidence in the act on the part of communities in Northern Ireland, which we are going to seek to reform. 'We owe it to all these families.'
