Swat Taliban spokesman Muslim Khan said, "Taliban have declared a unilateral ceasefire for 10 days as a goodwill gesture. Our fighters will not attack security personnel and government installations." However, he added that the militants would hold their positions and defend themselves if attacked. The deal has drawn much criticism both at home and abroad. So what lies behind the deal? Will it bring lasting peace to Swat?

Does this indicate the frustration of the American allies who are fighting on behalf of the US in Somalia and their inability to hold on anymore? How is the so-called ‘Djibouti Accord' signed on 26th October 2008 relevant to this issue? Finally, are such nation groups in a position to influence the organisation technically and militarily, or are the big powers behind them?

What is the current status of Bashir's case on the Darfur issue in the International Court of Justice? Presently one observes a lessening in the acuteness of tensions between Europe & America, does this imply that they are closer to a solution on these issues?

On 6th of August, 2008, a military coup was announced in Mauritania staged by the army led by the chief of the Republican Guard, General Mohammed Abdul Azeez against the President of the Republic Sayyid Mohammed al Sheikh Abdullah and his Prime Minister Yahya Ahmad al Waqif.