Reuters, Beirut

The death toll from the Beirut port explosion has risen to 154, state news agency NNA reported yesterday as authorities detained sixteen staff members at the port amid public anger. Lebanese authorities had announced a probe into Tuesday’s explosion, which they said was triggered by a fire igniting 2,750 tonnes of ammonium nitrate stored in a warehouse at the port.

Loya jirga to decide

fate of Taliban talks

AFP, Kabul

Thousands of Afghans began a three-day gathering in Kabul yesterday to decide whether to release about 400 Taliban prisoners, including many involved in attacks that killed scores of Afghans and foreigners, a key obstacle to advance peace talks. “The Taliban said if these 400 are released, then within three days direct talks will start,” President Ashraf Ghani said as he opened the loya jirga -- a traditional Afghan meeting of tribal elders.

Thai student protest

leaders arrested

Reuters, Bangkok

Thai authorities arrested a student leader and legal adviser yesterday over anti-government protests, a legal group said. Protesters, led by student groups, are returning to Thailand’s streets calling for the ousting of a conservative government led by pro-military politicians. Police arrested Anon Nampa, 35, a human rights lawyer, and student leader Panupong Jadnok, who have both featured prominently in student-led rallies around the country since July 18.