20 killed in IS-claimed café attack in BangladeshJuly 2, 2016 - 16:37 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - Twenty people, most said to be foreigners, were killed during an attack by suspected Islamist militants on a cafe in Bangladesh, the army says, according to BBC News. Gunmen stormed the Holey Artisan Bakery cafe in Dhaka late on Friday, July 1 before troops entered almost 12 hours later. Six of the attackers were also killed and one was arrested, a government spokesman said. The attack was claimed by the so-called Islamic State (IS). Italy's PM Matteo Renzi confirmed that Italians were among the dead. He offered condolences to the victims' families and, referring to the attackers, said: "Our values are stronger than hatred and terror." Italian news agency Ansa said up to 10 Italians may be unaccounted for. The Italian press said many of those dining at the cafe worked in the garment industry. The army had initially said all hostages killed were foreigners, but Reuters, Associated Press and local media said some Bangladeshis also died. The siege began as diners were gathering to break their fast during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan. Bangladesh's Daily Star newspaper said the gunmen tortured anyone who was unable to recite the Koran. They provided meals overnight for only the Bangladeshi captives, it said. Top stories Authorities said a total of 192 Azerbaijani troops were killed and 511 were wounded during Azerbaijan’s offensive. In 2023, the Azerbaijani government will increase the country’s defense budget by more than 1.1 billion manats ($650 million). The bill, published on Monday, is designed to "eliminate the shortcomings of an unreasonably broad interpretation of the key concept of "compatriot". The earthquake caused a temporary blackout, damaged many buildings and closed a number of rural roads. Partner news | Titus, Bilirakis lead legislation to sanction Azerbaijani war criminals Representatives Dina Titus (D-NV) and Gus Bilirakis (R-FL) have introduced the bipartisan legislation. Armenia: Defense Ministry warns against involving army in political processes The Ministry’s statement came after a video surfaced online, showing soldiers joining the protests in Tavush. Scholz hopes Armenia-Azerbaijan peace treaty will be signed this year German Chancellor Olaf Scholz hopes that a peace treaty between Armenia and Azerbaijan will be signed this year. Ucom equips four bus stops in Ijevan with free Wi-Fi Ucom now provides free Wi-Fi coverage in smart bus stops in four communities of Ijevan. |