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Competitive exam preparation in 2026 looks quite different from the rote memorisation of previous generations, where students were vastly reliant on varied sources, materials and notes from multiple institutes or online materials. However, after the introduction of conversational AI tutors like ChatGPT and Claude, the preparation has become very easy and accessible to use. This chat-native learning now provides answers to questions, generates practice problems, and simulates Socratic dialogues, while multimodal systems like Gemini process text, images, diagrams, and documents simultaneously for visual learning. Other than these tools, other platforms are also utilised for multiple processes and learning while preparing for the competitive exam. No matter how these technologies change the way of preparation for the student, rote learning can never be completely eradicated, but it will prompt students to opt for a hybrid strategy. Rather than replacing textbooks entirely, the most successful students are still relying on traditional materials for foundational understanding while turning to AI for active practice, question generation, and diagram analysis. Platforms are also personalising the journey of students, allowing aspirants to upload syllabi, track progress, and generate revision schedules, helping identify weak areas over time.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/explained-how-will-india-s-new-rs-62-500-crore-smartphone-manufacturing-scheme-will-boost-local-brands-1787482953768">EXPLAINED: How will India’s new Rs 62,500-crore smartphone manufacturing scheme boost local brands?</a><h3>Experts on chat-native learning</h3>Several experts have sided with the integration of chatbot learning, which provides better accessibility, time-saving, more resourcesful at single platform and quality of preparation. However, some experts have cautioned students, warning against an "illusion of learning," where over-reliance on AI could weaken students' critical thinking and metacognitive skills, stressing that the goal should be augmentation rather than replacement. 1. How is AI reshaping competitive exam preparation in India, and what key shifts are you seeing in how students consume and engage with educational content?&nbsp;Prempreet Singh, Founder &amp; CEO, SkillBytes: The biggest shift is away from consuming more content toward doing more. Students were never short on material; they were short on a daily practice habit. What we see now is a move from passive rote learning, reading and re-reading, toward active recall in small doses. AI makes that possible at scale, delivering the right practice and instant feedback to lakhs of students at once, inside the formats they already use rather than another app they have to open.&nbsp;2. Why is microlearning and chat-based learning gaining traction, and can these formats address challenges such as shorter attention spans and information overload?&nbsp;Prempreet Singh, Founder &amp; CEO, SkillBytes: Because it fits how students actually live. A teenager will not defend a thirty-minute study block, but they will finish a five-minute unit inside a chat they are already in. Microlearning works with fragmented attention instead of fighting it, and closes the loop while focus is still warm. It does not solve information overload by adding more; it solves it by shrinking each step until starting is effortless and finishing is the default, not the exception.&nbsp;3. How can AI-driven personalisation help identify learning gaps and make exam preparation more accessible and outcome-oriented for students across India?&nbsp;Prempreet Singh, Founder &amp; CEO, SkillBytes: Personalisation is where the technology and our roadmap are heading, not a solved feature anyone should claim today. The direction is clear: an experience that responds to each learner, focusing limited time where a student is weakest rather than teaching to the average. On accessibility, the unlock is delivery: no download, no login, no fixed device, so a student on a shared phone gets the same experience as anyone else. That is what widens access across India, well beyond the metros.&nbsp;4. What are the key opportunities and challenges for edtech platforms as AI becomes increasingly integrated into mainstream education and test preparation?&nbsp;Prempreet Singh, Founder &amp; CEO, SkillBytes: The opportunity is reach: quality preparation can now travel to any student on the phone already in their hand. The challenge is discipline. It is easy to add more content and mistake activity for learning. The harder, more valuable work is building genuine habit and being honest about what the technology does today versus what it will do tomorrow. Platforms that overclaim on AI will lose trust; the ones that stay grounded will earn durable engagement.&nbsp;5. What has SkillBytes observed from student engagement with its AI-led learning approach, and how does the platform see its model evolving over the next few years?&nbsp;Prempreet Singh, Founder &amp; CEO, SkillBytes: We measure engagement and consistency, not exam outcomes, because that daily return to practice is the leading indicator we are willing to be judged on. Across more than 9,00,000 students and tens of millions of interactions, sessions average over 30 messages, which tells us learning is becoming a habit rather than a one-time signup. Over the next few years, the model deepens across JEE, NEET, and UPSC, and travels beyond India through SAT and IELTS, where the format carries.&nbsp;Similarly, Kushal Raj Chakravorty, Founder and Managing Trutee- Lotus Petal Foundation, said, “AI can help shift competitive exam preparation from memorising answers to understanding concepts. A student can now ask questions in their own words, get explanations at their own convenience, practise continuously and identify learning gaps with feedback. For students from underserved communities, this is especially powerful because access to quality coaching and personalised academic support has never been equal. However, it is important to note that AI must complement and not replace teachers. The real opportunity is in combining technology with quality teaching so that students learn not just to find the right answer, but to think, question and solve problems independently.”

No matter how these technologies change the way of preparation for the student, rote learning can never be completely eradicated, but it will prompt students to opt for a hybrid strategy.

Competitive exam preparation in 2026 looks quite different from the rote memorisation of previous generations, where students were vastly reliant on varied sources, materials and notes from multiple institutes or online materials. However, after the introduction of conversational AI tutors like ChatGPT and Claude, the preparation has become very easy and accessible to use. This chat-native learning now provides answers to questions, generates practice problems, and simulates Socratic dialogues, while multimodal systems like Gemini process text, images, diagrams, and documents simultaneously for visual learning. Other than these tools, other platforms are also utilised for multiple processes and learning while preparing for the competitive exam. No matter how these technologies change the way of preparation for the student, rote learning can never be completely eradicated, but it will prompt students to opt for a hybrid strategy. Rather than replacing textbooks entirely, the most successful students are still relying on traditional materials for foundational understanding while turning to AI for active practice, question generation, and diagram analysis. Platforms are also personalising the journey of students, allowing aspirants to upload syllabi, track progress, and generate revision schedules, helping identify weak areas over time. Also read: EXPLAINED: How will India’s new Rs 62,500-crore smartphone manufacturing scheme boost local brands? Experts on chat-native learning Several experts have sided with the integration of chatbot learning, which provides better accessibility, time-saving, more resourcesful at single platform and quality of preparation. However, some experts have cautioned students, warning against an "illusion of learning," where over-reliance on AI could weaken students' critical thinking and metacognitive skills, stressing that the goal should be augmentation rather than replacement. 1. How is AI reshaping competitive exam preparation in India, and what key shifts are you seeing in how students consume and engage with educational content? Prempreet Singh, Founder & CEO, SkillBytes: The biggest shift is away from consuming more content toward doing more. Students were never short on material; they were short on a daily practice habit. What we see now is a move from passive rote learning, reading and re-reading, toward active recall in small doses. AI makes that possible at scale, delivering the right practice and instant feedback to lakhs of students at once, inside the formats they already use rather than another app they have to open. 2. Why is microlearning and chat-based learning gaining traction, and can these formats address challenges such as shorter attention spans and information overload? Prempreet Singh, Founder & CEO, SkillBytes: Because it fits how students actually live. A teenager will not defend a thirty-minute study block, but they will finish a five-minute unit inside a chat they are already in. Microlearning works with fragmented attention instead of fighting it, and closes the loop while focus is still warm. It does not solve information overload by adding more; it solves it by shrinking each step until starting is effortless and finishing is the default, not the exception. 3. How can AI-driven personalisation help identify learning gaps and make exam preparation more accessible and outcome-oriented for students across India? Prempreet Singh, Founder & CEO, SkillBytes: Personalisation is where the technology and our roadmap are heading, not a solved feature anyone should claim today. The direction is clear: an experience that responds to each learner, focusing limited time where a student is weakest rather than teaching to the average. On accessibility, the unlock is delivery: no download, no login, no fixed device, so a student on a shared phone gets the same experience as anyone else. That is what widens access across India, well beyond the metros. 4. What are the key opportunities and challenges for edtech platforms as AI becomes increasingly integrated into mainstream education and test preparation? Prempreet Singh, Founder & CEO, SkillBytes: The opportunity is reach: quality preparation can now travel to any student on the phone already in their hand. The challenge is discipline. It is easy to add more content and mistake activity for learning. The harder, more valuable work is building genuine habit and being honest about what the technology does today versus what it will do tomorrow. Platforms that overclaim on AI will lose trust; the ones that stay grounded will earn durable engagement. 5. What has SkillBytes observed from student engagement with its AI-led learning approach, and how does the platform see its model evolving over the next few years? Prempreet Singh, Founder & CEO, SkillBytes: We measure engagement and consistency, not exam outcomes, because that daily return to practice is the leading indicator we are willing to be judged on. Across more than 9,00,000 students and tens of millions of interactions, sessions average over 30 messages, which tells us learning is becoming a habit rather than a one-time signup. Over the next few years, the model deepens across JEE, NEET, and UPSC, and travels beyond India through SAT and IELTS, where the format carries. Similarly, Kushal Raj Chakravorty, Founder and Managing Trutee- Lotus Petal Foundation, said, “AI can help shift competitive exam preparation from memorising answers to understanding concepts. A student can now ask questions in their own words, get explanations at their own convenience, practise continuously and identify learning gaps with feedback. For students from underserved communities, this is especially powerful because access to quality coaching and personalised academic support has never been equal. However, it is important to note that AI must complement and not replace teachers. The real opportunity is in combining technology with quality teaching so that students learn not just to find the right answer, but to think, question and solve problems independently.”

No matter how these technologies change the way of preparation for the student, rote learning can never be completely eradicated, but it will prompt students to opt for a hybrid strategy.

From rote learning to chat-native learning: How AI is changing way students prepare for competitive exams

Indian Army Aviation pilots performed an exceptional precision and courage high-altitude casualty evacuation drive at 18,600 feet near the Nun Kun massif on Saturday (August 29) to pull a patient from a sheer mountain slope. The executed operation, defying fierce winds and treacherous terrain, has shown a marvellous and exceptional role of the Indian Army. While launching the evacuation drive beyond the aviation capabilities, the crew experienced a razor-thin window for success because the last available light of the day rapidly vented out over the high-altitude zone. To fly at 18,600 feet, where the thin air makes it hard for engines and rotors to work properly, the pilots had to take special steps to get the helicopter ready. They removed everything that wasn't absolutely necessary to make the aircraft as light as possible. The helicopter also carried very little fuel, just enough to complete the rescue while staying light enough to fly well. When the crew reached the injured person, they faced strong winds and a steep slope with no flat place to land. With no margin for mistakes, the pilots carefully held the helicopter in a risky hover, balancing it with only one skid touching the slope. They quickly got the patient into the aircraft, then lifted off and flew back down safely.<h3>Netizens lauded Indian Army efforts</h3>Video of the rescue mission at 18,600 ft is making rounds over social media, where netizens lauded the effort and risk of the Indian Army for their unwavering commitment. Some of the users appreciated how the Cheetah helicopter was operated in this mission despite its age.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">In a daring rescue mission at 18,600 ft near Nun Kun, Indian Army Aviation pilots evacuated a casualty from an extremely challenging slope with no landing space and strong winds. With the helicopter lightened by removing non-essential equipment and carrying limited fuel, the… <a href="https://t.co/dNaqrbljOp">pic.twitter.com/dNaqrbljOp</a>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://x.com/ANI/status/2093771455763042683?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 29, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

In a post on social media platform X, the official account of Fire and Fury Corps, Indian Army, said, "In a daring rescue mission at 18,600 ft near Nun Kun, Indian Army Aviation pilots evacuated a casualty from an extremely challenging slope with no landing space and strong winds. With the helicopter lightened by removing non-essential equipment and carrying limited fuel, the aviators executed the evacuation with exceptional precision, courage and determination, including a critical landing with one skid touching the slope. The mission, undertaken at the last available landing window of the day, stands as a testament to the skill, courage and compassion of Indian Army Aviation."

While launching the evacuation drive beyond the aviation capabilities, the crew experienced a razor-thin window for success because the last available light of the day rapidly vented out over the high-altitude zone. 

Indian Army Aviation pilots performed an exceptional precision and courage high-altitude casualty evacuation drive at 18,600 feet near the Nun Kun massif on Saturday (August 29) to pull a patient from a sheer mountain slope. The executed operation, defying fierce winds and treacherous terrain, has shown a marvellous and exceptional role of the Indian Army. While launching the evacuation drive beyond the aviation capabilities, the crew experienced a razor-thin window for success because the last available light of the day rapidly vented out over the high-altitude zone. To fly at 18,600 feet, where the thin air makes it hard for engines and rotors to work properly, the pilots had to take special steps to get the helicopter ready. They removed everything that wasn't absolutely necessary to make the aircraft as light as possible. The helicopter also carried very little fuel, just enough to complete the rescue while staying light enough to fly well. When the crew reached the injured person, they faced strong winds and a steep slope with no flat place to land. With no margin for mistakes, the pilots carefully held the helicopter in a risky hover, balancing it with only one skid touching the slope. They quickly got the patient into the aircraft, then lifted off and flew back down safely. Netizens lauded Indian Army efforts Video of the rescue mission at 18,600 ft is making rounds over social media, where netizens lauded the effort and risk of the Indian Army for their unwavering commitment. Some of the users appreciated how the Cheetah helicopter was operated in this mission despite its age.

While launching the evacuation drive beyond the aviation capabilities, the crew experienced a razor-thin window for success because the last available light of the day rapidly vented out over the high-altitude zone.&nbsp;

No room for error: Indian army pilots execute daring rescue at 18,600 ft near Nun Kun - VIDEO

Young adults between 18 and 21, who are generally too young to legally gamble at most US casinos and sportsbooks, have traded an estimated $5.4 billion on Kalshi this year, according to a new CNN analysis. The surge highlights growing concerns about prediction markets, which have rapidly expanded in popularity and allow users to trade contracts tied to events ranging from sports and elections to culture and weather.&nbsp;Unlike traditional casinos and sportsbooks, which are largely regulated by individual states and typically require customers to be at least 21, prediction markets operate under federal financial-market rules. That means users can generally participate once they turn 18. The difference has prompted lawmakers, consumer advocates and addiction specialists to question whether prediction markets have created a loophole that exposes younger adults to financial risks and potentially harmful trading behavior.<h2>Sports and parlays dominate trading</h2>Sports and parlays, all-or-nothing combinations of bets that have become particularly popular among sports bettors, account for roughly 80% of Kalshi's overall trading volume. CNN's analysis estimates that users between 18 and 21 have traded approximately $3.9 billion across those categories this year alone. That figure could increase substantially as major sporting events continue to attract users.&nbsp;“Normally you’d have a big summer lull, but the World Cup changed that completely,” said Jonathan Michaels, who runs a gaming industry consulting firm. “Prediction markets will also see record numbers this fall with the football season, and that’ll certainly trickle down into college-age students.” Kalshi has recorded more than $173 billion in total trading volume so far this year, based on publicly available figures from Paradigm, a major investor in the prediction-market company.&nbsp;According to a Kalshi spokesperson, users aged 18 to 21 currently account for 3.14% of the company's overall trading volume.CNN has a partnership with Kalshi and uses its data to report on major events. CNN editorial employees are prohibited from trading on prediction markets. Kalshi declined to provide CNN with detailed figures on the amount traded or spent specifically by users aged 18 to 21.&nbsp;The company has previously highlighted several safeguards aimed at younger and potentially vulnerable users. These measures include deposit limits and warnings for accounts showing patterns associated with risky behaviour. Kalshi has also contributed $2 million to the National Council for Problem Gambling to support efforts aimed at addressing unhealthy trading and addiction.<h2>Prediction markets dominate the US</h2>Financial analysts estimated earlier this year that Kalshi controlled approximately 90% of the US prediction-market volume, making it by far the largest player in the sector. Polymarket, considered the second-largest US prediction market, declined to comment and has not publicly released trading or spending figures for users aged 18 to 21. The rapid growth of these platforms has also intensified a broader legal battle over whether sports-related prediction contracts should be treated as financial products or gambling.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-president-nitin-nabin-reprimands-three-delhi-mps-over-condoling-sajjan-kumar-s-death-1788008745797">BJP President Nitin Nabin reprimands three Delhi MPs over condoling Sajjan Kumar's death</a><h2>Legal battle over prediction markets continues</h2>Prediction platforms currently operate as federally regulated financial exchanges and, under their current regulatory framework, are generally outside state gaming laws and taxes. The Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) oversees these markets at the federal level. That regulatory structure is facing a major legal challenge, however. The effort has received support from 44 state attorneys general, dozens of Indian tribes and the casino industry.&nbsp;The American Gaming Association, which represents the casino industry, has long argued that sports contracts offered by prediction markets effectively function as unlicensed sportsbooks. The organization has pointed to Kalshi's trading figures among younger users as evidence of the concerns surrounding sports prediction contracts. “Most parents and grandparents don’t realize that the ‘prediction markets’ are offering a backdoor into sports-betting in jurisdictions where the legal betting age is 21,” AGA president Bill Miller told CNN. “This means their freshman son or daughter is prohibited from entering legal sportsbooks, but now they can just pull out their phone and use Kalshi to bet on football.”&nbsp;Supporters of prediction markets counter that the platforms are financial exchanges rather than traditional gambling operators. They also note that Americans can legally open brokerage accounts at 18 and trade stocks and other financial products that can involve significant financial risk.<h2>Calls grow for a 21+ trading age</h2>The debate has prompted some prediction-market operators to voluntarily impose a minimum age of 21, despite federal rules generally allowing participation from users aged 18 and older. Fanatics, the sports merchandising giant, launched a prediction platform last year with a 21+ requirement.&nbsp;A company spokesman previously told CNN, “We believe 21+ is the right age for any type of real-money activities.” Major sports organizations have also urged regulators to reconsider the current age requirement. The NCAA, NFL, NBA, PGA Tour and other sports leagues have called on the CFTC to increase the minimum age for prediction-market trading to 21. The agency rejected those calls and is moving toward federal regulations that would maintain the current 18+ eligibility standard.

Young adults aged 18-21 have traded an estimated $5.4 billion on Kalshi this year, raising concerns over sports betting, addiction and regulation

Young adults between 18 and 21, who are generally too young to legally gamble at most US casinos and sportsbooks, have traded an estimated $5.4 billion on Kalshi this year, according to a new CNN analysis. The surge highlights growing concerns about prediction markets, which have rapidly expanded in popularity and allow users to trade contracts tied to events ranging from sports and elections to culture and weather. Unlike traditional casinos and sportsbooks, which are largely regulated by individual states and typically require customers to be at least 21, prediction markets operate under federal financial-market rules. That means users can generally participate once they turn 18. The difference has prompted lawmakers, consumer advocates and addiction specialists to question whether prediction markets have created a loophole that exposes younger adults to financial risks and potentially harmful trading behavior. Sports and parlays dominate trading Sports and parlays, all-or-nothing combinations of bets that have become particularly popular among sports bettors, account for roughly 80% of Kalshi's overall trading volume. CNN's analysis estimates that users between 18 and 21 have traded approximately $3.9 billion across those categories this year alone. That figure could increase substantially as major sporting events continue to attract users. “Normally you’d have a big summer lull, but the World Cup changed that completely,” said Jonathan Michaels, who runs a gaming industry consulting firm. “Prediction markets will also see record numbers this fall with the football season, and that’ll certainly trickle down into college-age students.” Kalshi has recorded more than $173 billion in total trading volume so far this year, based on publicly available figures from Paradigm, a major investor in the prediction-market company. According to a Kalshi spokesperson, users aged 18 to 21 currently account for 3.14% of the company's overall trading volume. CNN has a partnership with Kalshi and uses its data to report on major events. CNN editorial employees are prohibited from trading on prediction markets. Kalshi declined to provide CNN with detailed figures on the amount traded or spent specifically by users aged 18 to 21. The company has previously highlighted several safeguards aimed at younger and potentially vulnerable users. These measures include deposit limits and warnings for accounts showing patterns associated with risky behaviour. Kalshi has also contributed $2 million to the National Council for Problem Gambling to support efforts aimed at addressing unhealthy trading and addiction. Prediction markets dominate the US Financial analysts estimated earlier this year that Kalshi controlled approximately 90% of the US prediction-market volume, making it by far the largest player in the sector. Polymarket, considered the second-largest US prediction market, declined to comment and has not publicly released trading or spending figures for users aged 18 to 21. The rapid growth of these platforms has also intensified a broader legal battle over whether sports-related prediction contracts should be treated as financial products or gambling. Also Read: BJP President Nitin Nabin reprimands three Delhi MPs over condoling Sajjan Kumar's death Legal battle over prediction markets continues Prediction platforms currently operate as federally regulated financial exchanges and, under their current regulatory framework, are generally outside state gaming laws and taxes. The Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) oversees these markets at the federal level. That regulatory structure is facing a major legal challenge, however. The effort has received support from 44 state attorneys general, dozens of Indian tribes and the casino industry. The American Gaming Association, which represents the casino industry, has long argued that sports contracts offered by prediction markets effectively function as unlicensed sportsbooks. The organization has pointed to Kalshi's trading figures among younger users as evidence of the concerns surrounding sports prediction contracts. “Most parents and grandparents don’t realize that the ‘prediction markets’ are offering a backdoor into sports-betting in jurisdictions where the legal betting age is 21,” AGA president Bill Miller told CNN. “This means their freshman son or daughter is prohibited from entering legal sportsbooks, but now they can just pull out their phone and use Kalshi to bet on football.” Supporters of prediction markets counter that the platforms are financial exchanges rather than traditional gambling operators. They also note that Americans can legally open brokerage accounts at 18 and trade stocks and other financial products that can involve significant financial risk. Calls grow for a 21+ trading age The debate has prompted some prediction-market operators to voluntarily impose a minimum age of 21, despite federal rules generally allowing participation from users aged 18 and older. Fanatics, the sports merchandising giant, launched a prediction platform last year with a 21+ requirement. A company spokesman previously told CNN, “We believe 21+ is the right age for any type of real-money activities.” Major sports organizations have also urged regulators to reconsider the current age requirement. The NCAA, NFL, NBA, PGA Tour and other sports leagues have called on the CFTC to increase the minimum age for prediction-market trading to 21. The agency rejected those calls and is moving toward federal regulations that would maintain the current 18+ eligibility standard.

Young adults aged 18-21 have traded billions on Kalshi this year, intensifying concerns over sports betting, addiction and prediction-market rules

Young adults under 21 trade billions on Kalshi amid explosive prediction market growth

A leading Dutch drug and mental health institute has issued a “Red Alert” over ecstasy pills shaped like the head of US President Donald Trump, warning that the tablets could be potentially lethal. The Trimbos Institute said on Friday (Aug 28) that several of the pills had recently been submitted to a network of drug-testing centres in the Netherlands, where users can have substances checked before taking them.“Absolutely do not use these pills,” the institute warned.Images released by Trimbos showed tablets featuring a depiction of Trump’s head on one side. The other side carried the markings “NL” and “Trump”, separated by a vertical line. The pills were found in at least green and yellow colours.Warning over dangerous chemicalAccording to the institute, the tablets contain a high concentration of para-methoxymethamphetamine, or PMMA, a substance chemically similar to MDMA, the main active ingredient in ecstasy.Trimbos warned that PMMA can take longer to produce an effect than MDMA. That delay could prompt users to take additional pills, believing the first dose had not worked, increasing the risk of a potentially fatal overdose.The institute said use of the tablets “can lead to overheating with possibly deadly consequences.”Despite the warning, Trimbos spokesperson Anniek Groothuis said there had been no confirmed reports so far of serious illness or deaths linked to the Trump-shaped pills.“We do not know of any victims where PMMA was found in their blood,” she told The Associated Press.Ecstasy remains illegal in the Netherlands, although its use is widespread, particularly in clubs and at music festivals. A Dutch government report published in 2024 estimated that around 550,000 people had used the drug during the year.The pills are also not appearing for the first time. In 2017, German police seized thousands of orange ecstasy tablets moulded in the shape of Trump’s head.

Dutch health institute Trimbos has issued a “Red Alert” over Trump-shaped ecstasy pills containing high levels of PMMA, warning they could cause overheating and potentially deadly consequences.

A leading Dutch drug and mental health institute has issued a “Red Alert” over ecstasy pills shaped like the head of US President Donald Trump, warning that the tablets could be potentially lethal. The Trimbos Institute said on Friday (Aug 28) that several of the pills had recently been submitted to a network of drug-testing centres in the Netherlands, where users can have substances checked before taking them. “Absolutely do not use these pills,” the institute warned. Images released by Trimbos showed tablets featuring a depiction of Trump’s head on one side. The other side carried the markings “NL” and “Trump”, separated by a vertical line. The pills were found in at least green and yellow colours. Warning over dangerous chemical According to the institute, the tablets contain a high concentration of para-methoxymethamphetamine, or PMMA, a substance chemically similar to MDMA, the main active ingredient in ecstasy. Trimbos warned that PMMA can take longer to produce an effect than MDMA. That delay could prompt users to take additional pills, believing the first dose had not worked, increasing the risk of a potentially fatal overdose. The institute said use of the tablets “can lead to overheating with possibly deadly consequences.” Despite the warning, Trimbos spokesperson Anniek Groothuis said there had been no confirmed reports so far of serious illness or deaths linked to the Trump-shaped pills. “We do not know of any victims where PMMA was found in their blood,” she told The Associated Press. Ecstasy remains illegal in the Netherlands, although its use is widespread, particularly in clubs and at music festivals. A Dutch government report published in 2024 estimated that around 550,000 people had used the drug during the year. The pills are also not appearing for the first time. In 2017, German police seized thousands of orange ecstasy tablets moulded in the shape of Trump’s head.

Dutch health institute Trimbos has issued a “Red Alert” over Trump-shaped ecstasy pills containing high levels of PMMA, warning they could cause overheating and potentially deadly consequences.

Trump-shaped ecstasy pills trigger ‘Red Alert’ in Netherlands: ‘Absolutely do not use’

Days after the tragic Nepal floods thousands remain missing, with families awaiting news about their loved ones. While Nepal on Saturday upped the death toll to 626, China's Xinhua news agency early Saturday reported that across the border in Tibet only 7 deaths have been recorded, with 554 missing. The low number seems doubtful, especially given the scale of destruction the floods have left in their wake.Now, a video from Gyirong Port, a vital land border crossing between Tibet, China, and Rasuwa, Nepal is further raising questions about Beijing's censorship.The video in question is difficult to miss. It shows a wall of water and mud rushing through Gyirong Port as people run for safety and everything in its path is swept away.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nepal-tibet-flood-disaster-death-toll-hits-586-over-2-400-missing-as-rescue-effort-faces-fresh-flood-threat-1787964592622">Nepal-Tibet flood disaster: Death toll hits 586, over 2,400 missing as rescue effort faces fresh flood threat</a>The footage, captured by CCTV cameras has quickly spread across social media and television screens around the world.In China, however, the same images have been far harder to find, reports BBC. Watch it here:

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">A massive mudslide struck Gyirong Port on the China-Nepal border, with CCTV footage showing a wall of debris slamming through the crossing in seconds, tossing vehicles and buses. Nepal reports at least 8-16 dead with hundreds of travelers listed as missing, including 291… <a href="https://t.co/ZXfDIUaGsC">pic.twitter.com/ZXfDIUaGsC</a>&mdash; Clash Report (@clashreport) <a href="https://x.com/clashreport/status/2092570543430000883?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 26, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>China censoring visuals of Nepal-Tibet floods?</h2>So far, China's state-run media has shown only a single still image from the flooding. According to the report by BBC's Laura Bicker, finding the shocking video on China's heavily controlled internet has proved difficult. So has finding detailed first-hand accounts of a disaster that has killed hundreds and left many more missing.This is now drawing attention to the way Beijing manages information about Tibet, particularly during a major crisis.<h2>China's response is visible, but tightly controlled</h2>Beijing has mounted a large rescue operation in the affected region. Hundreds of emergency workers have been deployed, while President Xi Jinping chaired a meeting on the response.Chinese state media has also reported on rescue teams working in dangerous conditions, including specialists scaling mountains and crossing swollen rivers. Officials have warned about a barrier lake formed by debris that could overflow and trigger further flooding.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nepal-floods-china-warns-artificial-lake-formed-after-mudslide-could-breach-send-more-floodwaters-downstream-death-toll-392-1787879651104">Nepal floods: China warns artificial lake formed after mudslide could breach, send more floodwaters downstream</a>But notably, beyond those official updates, there is little independent information available.There are few accounts from survivors in Tibet, almost no user-generated footage showing the flooding as it happened and little information from families searching for missing relatives.Foreign journalists, as per reports are facing trouble accessing Tibet. The access remains tightly controlled and requires government permission, making independent reporting during a fast-moving disaster particularly difficult.<h2>Why Tibet is especially sensitive for Beijing</h2>The information blackout is taking place against the backdrop of Tibet's complicated political history with Beijing.China brought Tibet under Communist rule in the 1950s after years of resistance to Chinese control. Beijing has since faced criticism over its policies in the region, while Tibetan groups abroad have accused the government of restricting religious and cultural freedoms.The Chinese government rejects those allegations and points instead to extensive investment in Tibet, including infrastructure and tourism development.Yet the region remains politically sensitive, and that sensitivity becomes especially visible when a major disaster draws international attention.<h2>Why is China censoring a natural disaster?</h2>One explanation for the limited coverage could be Beijing's longstanding emphasis on maintaining social stability.Local Communist Party officials moved quickly after the disaster, urging grassroots members to assist with relief work and provide emotional and psychological support to residents.One particularly striking instruction, BBC reports told party members to "make every effort to maintain social order and ensure stability and public confidence in the disaster areas".The directive also warned that officials who performed well would be rewarded, while those who failed would be held accountable.<h2>Videos and accounts disappearing online</h2>Advocacy group, International Campaign for Tibet has meanwhile praised emergency responders but said Chinese authorities were removing videos and first-hand accounts from social media.The group called on Beijing to "disclose complete and verifiable information about the damage and casualties".&nbsp;

A terrifying video showing floodwaters ripping through Gyirong Port has spread across the world. But inside China, the same footage is remarkably difficult to find, raising fresh questions about how Beijing is handling information from the disaster zone. Watch below.

Days after the tragic Nepal floods thousands remain missing, with families awaiting news about their loved ones. While Nepal on Saturday upped the death toll to 626, China's Xinhua news agency early Saturday reported that across the border in Tibet only 7 deaths have been recorded, with 554 missing. The low number seems doubtful, especially given the scale of destruction the floods have left in their wake. Now, a video from Gyirong Port, a vital land border crossing between Tibet, China, and Rasuwa, Nepal is further raising questions about Beijing's censorship. The video in question is difficult to miss. It shows a wall of water and mud rushing through Gyirong Port as people run for safety and everything in its path is swept away. Also read | Nepal-Tibet flood disaster: Death toll hits 586, over 2,400 missing as rescue effort faces fresh flood threat The footage, captured by CCTV cameras has quickly spread across social media and television screens around the world. In China, however, the same images have been far harder to find, reports BBC. Watch it here:

A terrifying video showing floodwaters ripping through Gyirong Port has spread across the world. But inside China, the same footage is remarkably difficult to find, raising fresh questions about how Beijing is handling information from the disaster zone. Watch below.

Watch | Terrifying video shows floodwaters ripping through Tibet's Gyirong Port, yet footage remains missing from China's social media

A military judge on Friday (Aug 18) threw out a confession that alleged September 11 mastermind Khalid Sheikh Mohammed gave to FBI agents nearly 20 years ago, ruling that the statements were not made voluntarily.The decision is another setback for the US government's long-running effort to bring Mohammed and his co-defendants to trial at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba.Judge Lt. Col. Michael Schrama issued the ruling just days after setting June 2028 as the trial date for Mohammed and three other defendants.<h2>FBI statements suppressed</h2>According to the court order, which had not been publicly released, Schrama suppressed statements Mohammed made during a four-day FBI interrogation at Guantanamo in January 2007.The judge found that Mohammed's earlier treatment by the CIA had affected whether those later statements could be considered voluntary.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/9-11-mastermind-khalid-sheikh-mohammed-pushed-to-2028-after-more-than-two-decades-of-delays-guantanamo-bay-1787798298127">9/11 mastermind Khalid Sheikh Mohammed to finally face trial in 2028, nearly 27 years after horrific attacks</a>Mohammed had been captured in 2003 and held in secret CIA facilities, where he was subjected to waterboarding and other interrogation techniques widely regarded as torture.Schrama found that the CIA's treatment had left Mohammed fearing that he would face severe mistreatment if he did not cooperate with interrogators. The judge also found that Mohammed had not been given a Miranda warning about his right to remain silent and had been told he could not speak to a lawyer.<h2>Prosecutors consider appeal</h2>The ruling could significantly affect the government's case, given the importance of Mohammed's statements to the prosecution.Rear Adm. Aaron C. Rugh, the prosecutor handling the case, told The New York Times that the government would decide "in the near future" whether to appeal the ruling.The decision has also prompted a sharp disagreement from one of the FBI agents who questioned Mohammed. Retired FBI agent Frank Pellegrino told CBS News that he believed Mohammed had confessed voluntarily. Pellegrino said he had made it clear that Mohammed did not have to speak to him. "Now, whether that fits within what is required legally, based on other activities, a court's got to decide that," Pellegrino said.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-venezuela-oil-deal-65-billion-barrels-us-control-1787964008355">Trump claims 'biggest oil deal in world history' with Venezuela, says US will control majority of 65 billion barrels</a><h2>Trial already delayed for years</h2>Mohammed is accused of developing the plan to hijack commercial aircraft and use them in the September 11 attacks on the Pentagon and World Trade Center. He has been held at Guantanamo Bay along with other defendants while the case has been entangled in arguments over evidence, interrogation practices, and the military commission system.Schrama scheduled the trial for June 5, 2028, earlier this week. The latest ruling means another major evidentiary issue will now have to be dealt with before proceedings can begin.<h2>Death penalty remains possible</h2>Mohammed could face the death penalty if convicted. He and two other defendants agreed to plea deals in 2024 that would have allowed them to avoid capital punishment. Those agreements were later rejected after then-Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin overruled them, and an appeals court subsequently overturned the plea arrangements. &nbsp;

A key piece of evidence in the long-delayed 9/11 case has been thrown out. A Guantanamo judge ruled that statements Khalid Sheikh Mohammed gave to FBI agents were not made voluntarily, dealing another setback to the prosecution.

A military judge on Friday (Aug 18) threw out a confession that alleged September 11 mastermind Khalid Sheikh Mohammed gave to FBI agents nearly 20 years ago, ruling that the statements were not made voluntarily. The decision is another setback for the US government's long-running effort to bring Mohammed and his co-defendants to trial at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. Judge Lt. Col. Michael Schrama issued the ruling just days after setting June 2028 as the trial date for Mohammed and three other defendants. FBI statements suppressed According to the court order, which had not been publicly released, Schrama suppressed statements Mohammed made during a four-day FBI interrogation at Guantanamo in January 2007. The judge found that Mohammed's earlier treatment by the CIA had affected whether those later statements could be considered voluntary. Also read | 9/11 mastermind Khalid Sheikh Mohammed to finally face trial in 2028, nearly 27 years after horrific attacks Mohammed had been captured in 2003 and held in secret CIA facilities, where he was subjected to waterboarding and other interrogation techniques widely regarded as torture. Schrama found that the CIA's treatment had left Mohammed fearing that he would face severe mistreatment if he did not cooperate with interrogators. The judge also found that Mohammed had not been given a Miranda warning about his right to remain silent and had been told he could not speak to a lawyer. Prosecutors consider appeal The ruling could significantly affect the government's case, given the importance of Mohammed's statements to the prosecution. Rear Adm. Aaron C. Rugh, the prosecutor handling the case, told The New York Times that the government would decide "in the near future" whether to appeal the ruling. The decision has also prompted a sharp disagreement from one of the FBI agents who questioned Mohammed. Retired FBI agent Frank Pellegrino told CBS News that he believed Mohammed had confessed voluntarily. Pellegrino said he had made it clear that Mohammed did not have to speak to him. "Now, whether that fits within what is required legally, based on other activities, a court's got to decide that," Pellegrino said. Also read | Trump claims 'biggest oil deal in world history' with Venezuela, says US will control majority of 65 billion barrels Trial already delayed for years Mohammed is accused of developing the plan to hijack commercial aircraft and use them in the September 11 attacks on the Pentagon and World Trade Center. He has been held at Guantanamo Bay along with other defendants while the case has been entangled in arguments over evidence, interrogation practices, and the military commission system. Schrama scheduled the trial for June 5, 2028, earlier this week. The latest ruling means another major evidentiary issue will now have to be dealt with before proceedings can begin. Death penalty remains possible Mohammed could face the death penalty if convicted. He and two other defendants agreed to plea deals in 2024 that would have allowed them to avoid capital punishment. Those agreements were later rejected after then-Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin overruled them, and an appeals court subsequently overturned the plea arrangements.

A key piece of evidence in the long-delayed 9/11 case has been thrown out. A Guantanamo judge ruled that statements Khalid Sheikh Mohammed gave to FBI agents were not made voluntarily, dealing another setback to the prosecution.

Judge throws out 9/11 attack mastermind Khalid Sheikh Mohammed's FBI confession over torture concerns

Security forces along the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir have stepped up surveillance after an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) believed to have originated from Pakistan was detected in the Rajouri sector on Friday (Aug 28), according to reports citing Army sources.The drone was spotted at around 8:05 pm (India time) over the general area of Behrooti, within the operational area of responsibility of the 22 Jammu and Kashmir Rifles.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-polic-couple-arrested-isi-pakistan-linked-espionage-sim-cards-spy-network-india-1787897385131">ISI spy module busted in Delhi? Police arrest couple over alleged Pakistan links</a><h2>Drone tracked towards Mangalnar-Dabrote axis</h2>Army personnel monitoring the sector tracked the UAV as it moved towards the Mangalnar-Dabrote axis.Troops immediately alerted the forward formations and increased aerial as well as ground surveillance across the sector. Security forces are also keeping a close watch on nearby areas for any possible attempt to drop contraband, weapons or other material across the LoC, reported ANI.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/if-you-want-peace-prepare-for-war-naravane-warns-china-not-pakistan-is-india-s-main-competitor-1787283477651">'If you want peace, prepare for war': Ex-Army chief Manoj Naravane warns China, not Pakistan, is India's main competitor</a><h2>Search operations intensified</h2>Following the reported drone activity, forces have intensified searches in adjoining forward areas.The heightened alert comes as security agencies continue to monitor aerial activity along the border for any further incursions.Further official details on the incident are awaited.

A suspected Pakistan-origin drone has been detected near the Line of Control in Rajouri, prompting security forces to intensify aerial and ground surveillance. The UAV was tracked towards the Mangalnar-Dabrote axis. All you need to know.

Security forces along the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir have stepped up surveillance after an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) believed to have originated from Pakistan was detected in the Rajouri sector on Friday (Aug 28), according to reports citing Army sources. The drone was spotted at around 8:05 pm (India time) over the general area of Behrooti, within the operational area of responsibility of the 22 Jammu and Kashmir Rifles. Also read | ISI spy module busted in Delhi? Police arrest couple over alleged Pakistan links Drone tracked towards Mangalnar-Dabrote axis Army personnel monitoring the sector tracked the UAV as it moved towards the Mangalnar-Dabrote axis. Troops immediately alerted the forward formations and increased aerial as well as ground surveillance across the sector. Security forces are also keeping a close watch on nearby areas for any possible attempt to drop contraband, weapons or other material across the LoC, reported ANI. Also read | 'If you want peace, prepare for war': Ex-Army chief Manoj Naravane warns China, not Pakistan, is India's main competitor Search operations intensified Following the reported drone activity, forces have intensified searches in adjoining forward areas. The heightened alert comes as security agencies continue to monitor aerial activity along the border for any further incursions. Further official details on the incident are awaited.

A suspected Pakistan-origin drone has been detected near the Line of Control in Rajouri, prompting security forces to intensify aerial and ground surveillance. The UAV was tracked towards the Mangalnar-Dabrote axis. All you need to know.

Jammu and Kashmir: Indian army on high alert after suspected Pakistani drone sighting over LoC in Rajouri

US President Donald Trump on Friday (Aug 28) announced that his administration had struck what he described as a massive oil agreement with Venezuela that would give the United States majority control of 65 billion barrels of the country's proven petroleum reserves.Trump called it "the biggest oil deal in world history", while US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the arrangement would bring nearly $100 billion in private investment into Venezuela.The Venezuelan government had not immediately confirmed the deal.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wion-decodes-two-thirds-of-ships-crossing-hormuz-are-now-dark-what-does-that-mean-1787645012571">WION Decodes: Two-thirds of ships crossing Hormuz are now 'dark'. What does that mean?</a><h2>Trump says deal will boost US oil reserves</h2>Announcing the agreement on Truth Social, Trump said the arrangement would more than double US oil reserves. He said Rubio and US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth had reached the agreement with Venezuelan interim leader Delcy Rodriguez through a partnership involving private companies."This Transaction will greatly strengthen the already growing relationship between Venezuela and the United States!" Trump wrote.

Rubio said the agreement was another example of Trump's "America First" approach. "For the Venezuelan people, this deal will bring nearly $100 billion in private investment, support thousands of high-paying jobs, and drive the reconstruction of Venezuela's economy," Rubio wrote on X.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-s-women-problem-white-women-abandoning-republicans-ahead-of-2026-midterms-shows-report-1787906287196">Trump's women problem? White women abandoning Republicans ahead of 2026 midterms, shows report</a>He also said the deal would secure stable reserves and low-cost oil in the Western Hemisphere while helping bring down gasoline prices in the US.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">This deal is a huge win for both the American and Venezuelan people. It demonstrates how President Trump&#39;s bold foreign policy is driving America First wins: securing stable reserves and low-cost oil in our Hemisphere and lowering gas prices here at home. For the Venezuelan… <a href="https://t.co/SMSRYGWmVb">https://t.co/SMSRYGWmVb</a>&mdash; Secretary Marco Rubio (@SecRubio) <a href="https://x.com/SecRubio/status/2093472965404860812?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 28, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Deal follows talks over major Venezuelan oil fields</h2>The announcement follows reports that Washington and Caracas had been discussing a much larger arrangement involving Venezuelan oil production.Previously, Axios reported that the two countries were negotiating over a dozen productive oil fields holding around 90 billion barrels of proven reserves, or roughly a third of Venezuela's total proven reserves of 300 billion barrels.Under the reported structure, private companies, including US firms, would receive ownership stakes and develop the fields, with more oil revenue flowing back to Venezuela.Trump's announcement referred to majority control of 65 billion barrels of proven reserves, but the material provided does not explain how that figure relates to the previously reported 90 billion barrels.The deal also comes after the US ousted and captured longtime Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro in January. His former vice president, Delcy Rodriguez, remained as interim leader on condition that she cooperate with Washington.&nbsp;

Donald Trump says the US has secured a massive new oil deal with Venezuela. He has described it as the biggest in history, but what exactly does Washington get, and what does Caracas stand to gain? All details below.

US President Donald Trump on Friday (Aug 28) announced that his administration had struck what he described as a massive oil agreement with Venezuela that would give the United States majority control of 65 billion barrels of the country's proven petroleum reserves. Trump called it "the biggest oil deal in world history", while US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the arrangement would bring nearly $100 billion in private investment into Venezuela. The Venezuelan government had not immediately confirmed the deal. Also read | WION Decodes: Two-thirds of ships crossing Hormuz are now 'dark'. What does that mean? Trump says deal will boost US oil reserves Announcing the agreement on Truth Social, Trump said the arrangement would more than double US oil reserves. He said Rubio and US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth had reached the agreement with Venezuelan interim leader Delcy Rodriguez through a partnership involving private companies. "This Transaction will greatly strengthen the already growing relationship between Venezuela and the United States!" Trump wrote.

Donald Trump says the US has secured a massive new oil deal with Venezuela. He has described it as the biggest in history, but what exactly does Washington get, and what does Caracas stand to gain? All details below.

Trump claims 'biggest oil deal in world history' with Venezuela, says US will control majority of 65 billion barrels

Nepal flash floods have left a trail of destruction behind. The death toll has reached 579, while hundreds of them are missing, including foreign tourists. The infrastructure damage in the region is also huge. At least 19 motorable bridges and 40 kilometers of major roads have been severely damaged or washed away.&nbsp;Several concrete buildings, local markets, and residential villages along the Bhotekoshi and Bhote Koshi river basins in districts like Rasuwa, Nuwakot, Dhading, and Chitwan have been swept away by the flash floods.&nbsp;The scale of destruction was captured on cameras and widely shared on social media platforms. One video that has gone viral is about the escape of a family from the devastating floods.&nbsp;In the two-minute video posted on X one can see a two-storey structure painted in light green standing tall amid raging floodwaters. At least three members of a family can also be seen standing in the balcony of the house as flood waters gush with strong force.&nbsp;As other structures around it collapsed, the building remained standing with relatively little visible damage.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Terrifying footage shows a flash flood sweeping through the Nepal–Tibet border, trapping people on rooftops and balconies. At least 469 have been killed, with hundreds still missing. <a href="https://t.co/xRgRWmwut7">pic.twitter.com/xRgRWmwut7</a>&mdash; Weather Monitor (@WeatherMonitors) <a href="https://x.com/WeatherMonitors/status/2093202626930524474?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 28, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>What caused the devastating Nepal floods?</h2>&nbsp;Preliminary information suggest that a magnitude 4.4 earthquake in Tibetan territory may have triggered an avalanche that led to the devastating flash flood in Nepal’s Bhote Koshi River.According to the US Geological Survey (USGS), the earthquake struck Tibetan territory at around 8:37 am, approximately 47 kilometres north of Gosainkunda.&nbsp;While, Nepal’s National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority say that a glacier-inclusive flood occurred in the Lhende River due to a snow-rock landslide on the Nepal-China border about 20 kilometers northeast of the Nepal-China Rasuwagadhi border crossing.&nbsp;As sequence of events is still being assessed, authorities and experts are investigating whether the earthquake in the Tibetan territory had any role to play in the avalanche that led to the sudden release of water in Bhotekoshi River.

As other structures around it collapsed, the building remained standing with relatively little visible damage by the devastating Nepal floods.

Nepal flash floods have left a trail of destruction behind. The death toll has reached 579, while hundreds of them are missing, including foreign tourists. The infrastructure damage in the region is also huge. At least 19 motorable bridges and 40 kilometers of major roads have been severely damaged or washed away. Several concrete buildings, local markets, and residential villages along the Bhotekoshi and Bhote Koshi river basins in districts like Rasuwa, Nuwakot, Dhading, and Chitwan have been swept away by the flash floods. The scale of destruction was captured on cameras and widely shared on social media platforms. One video that has gone viral is about the escape of a family from the devastating floods. In the two-minute video posted on X one can see a two-storey structure painted in light green standing tall amid raging floodwaters. At least three members of a family can also be seen standing in the balcony of the house as flood waters gush with strong force. As other structures around it collapsed, the building remained standing with relatively little visible damage.

As other structures around it collapsed, the building remained standing with relatively little visible damage by the devastating Nepal floods.

WATCH: Family on balcony of viral green house survives terrifying Nepal floods

Europe is witnessing a string of Hollywood-style museum heists, with the latest theft taking place at Austria’s Museum of Applied Arts (MAK) on Friday. Two thieves entered the museum after buying tickets and walked away with a 200-carat platinum and diamond necklace.&nbsp;The unusual part of the raid was how openly it was carried out. According to police, the two men entered the museum without wearing masks and were clearly visible on surveillance cameras. They did not use any fancy entrance or attempt to conceal their identities.&nbsp;Police said they "smashed a glass display case" with a hammer before "fleeing with the jewellery in an unknown direction".&nbsp;As per Austrian media reports, the Van Cleef and Arpels necklace contains 673 precious stones and was worth several million dollars. The theft is the latest in a series of high-profile museum heists across Europe.&nbsp;The necklace was part of an exhibition dedicated to French designers Van Cleef and Arpels. Around 500 pieces had been on display since June. The exhibition was scheduled to run until September 27 but has now been closed following the theft.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nepal-floods-pm-ministers-pledge-a-month-s-salary-to-relief-fund-india-calls-relief-efforts-highest-priority-1787913619280">Nepal floods: PM, ministers pledge a month’s salary to relief fund; India calls relief efforts ‘highest priority’</a><h3>A necklace with royal history</h3>The necklace was designed for the former Egyptian royal family. Queen Nazli wore it in 1939 for the wedding of her daughter Faiza to Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, who later became the Shah of Iran.&nbsp;Van Cleef and Arpels described the stolen piece on its website as a "triumph of white jewellery". The French company did not immediately comment on the theft.&nbsp;The latest raid comes as European museums face a series of spectacular thefts. In October, thieves broke into the Louvre in Paris in broad daylight and escaped in less than eight minutes with jewellery worth $102 million.&nbsp;On Thursday, thieves in Spain staged another rapid raid at the historic Treasure of Villena museum, stealing most of its collection in a heist that lasted just four minutes. The stolen gold alone is worth around 1.7 million euros, or $2 million.&nbsp;The collection also includes several other historical artefacts whose value cannot be determined.The raid targeted more than 50 objects, mainly made of gold, at the museum in the Spanish town of Villena.&nbsp;A town council spokesman said, "The alarm at the Villena Museum went off around 5:20 am (0320 GMT)." He added that the thieves had left the building by 5:24 am.

Two thieves paid to enter Austria’s Museum of Applied Arts before smashing a display case and fleeing with a 200-carat platinum and diamond necklace worth several million dollars.

Europe is witnessing a string of Hollywood-style museum heists, with the latest theft taking place at Austria’s Museum of Applied Arts (MAK) on Friday. Two thieves entered the museum after buying tickets and walked away with a 200-carat platinum and diamond necklace. The unusual part of the raid was how openly it was carried out. According to police, the two men entered the museum without wearing masks and were clearly visible on surveillance cameras. They did not use any fancy entrance or attempt to conceal their identities. Police said they "smashed a glass display case" with a hammer before "fleeing with the jewellery in an unknown direction". As per Austrian media reports, the Van Cleef and Arpels necklace contains 673 precious stones and was worth several million dollars. The theft is the latest in a series of high-profile museum heists across Europe. The necklace was part of an exhibition dedicated to French designers Van Cleef and Arpels. Around 500 pieces had been on display since June. The exhibition was scheduled to run until September 27 but has now been closed following the theft. Also Read: Nepal floods: PM, ministers pledge a month’s salary to relief fund; India calls relief efforts ‘highest priority’ A necklace with royal history The necklace was designed for the former Egyptian royal family. Queen Nazli wore it in 1939 for the wedding of her daughter Faiza to Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, who later became the Shah of Iran. Van Cleef and Arpels described the stolen piece on its website as a "triumph of white jewellery". The French company did not immediately comment on the theft. The latest raid comes as European museums face a series of spectacular thefts. In October, thieves broke into the Louvre in Paris in broad daylight and escaped in less than eight minutes with jewellery worth $102 million. On Thursday, thieves in Spain staged another rapid raid at the historic Treasure of Villena museum, stealing most of its collection in a heist that lasted just four minutes. The stolen gold alone is worth around 1.7 million euros, or $2 million. The collection also includes several other historical artefacts whose value cannot be determined. The raid targeted more than 50 objects, mainly made of gold, at the museum in the Spanish town of Villena. A town council spokesman said, "The alarm at the Villena Museum went off around 5:20 am (0320 GMT)." He added that the thieves had left the building by 5:24 am.

Two thieves paid to enter Austria’s Museum of Applied Arts before smashing a display case and fleeing with a 200-carat platinum and diamond necklace worth several million dollars.

They bought tickets to steal: Thieves walk into Austria museum and flee with 200-carat platinum diamond necklace

The festival of Rakshabandhan or Rakhi traditionally celebrates the bond of siblings, particularly of brothers and sisters. Over the years, the celebration has taken on its own spin, with siblings, irrespective of gender, celebrating their bond. A typical Hindu festival, Rakshabandhan has, over the decades, served different purposes and meanings for different communities. In East India, Rakhi was introduced by poet Rabindranath Tagore, not as a festival for brothers and sisters, but to fortify a bond between Hindus and Muslims, and prevent Bengal’s partition in 1905 by the British.&nbsp;The world we live in is polarised. Lines are often drawn based on one's religion and colour. A moment from history serves as a timely reminder of religious harmony that once existed in India. On Rakshabandhan, here’s a look back at a time when the sacred thread was used to resist division on religious lines. A move that was<h2>Rakhi celebration to stop Bengal’s partition</h2>At the dawn of the 20th century, Bengal was at its peak of nationalist movement. This emerged as a big threat to the British Raj. Thus, in 1905, Lord Curzon announced the Partition of Bengal, a policy explicitly designed to divide the region along religious lines—creating a Muslim-majority Eastern Bengal and Assam, and a Hindu-majority Western Bengal. While it was termed an administrative restructuring, it was, in reality, a means of dividing the region that had become the epicentre of nationalism and nationalist activities.&nbsp;In response, Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore conceived a masterstroke of cultural resistance. Rather than relying solely on political speeches or petitions, Tagore drew on the traditional festival of Rakshabandhan to make a statement about Hindu-Muslim unity in Bengal. Rakhi was till then historically known as a domestic ritual where sisters tie protective threads (rakhis) on their brothers' wrists, but Tagore reimagined the custom as a public act of communal solidarity.&nbsp;<h2>Celebrating Rakhi in Muslim neighbourhoods of Kolkata</h2>On October 16, 1905—the day partition officially took effect—Tagore declared a day of widespread mourning (Arandhan), asking Bengalis to shut their kitchens as a sign of shared grief. He then called upon Hindus and Muslims across the province to step into the streets and tie yellow silk threads onto each other’s wrists, symbolising an unbreakable, sacred bond of brotherhood.&nbsp;Tagore personally led a massive procession down the streets of Kolkata after taking a ritual dip in the Ganges. Barefoot and singing patriotic songs, the procession marched directly into Muslim-dominated neighbourhoods of Kolkata. Tagore and his followers visited local mosques, market stalls, and homes, tying rakhis onto Muslim clerics, shopkeepers, and labourers. &nbsp;Tagore even composed the famous song "Banglar Mati, Banglar Jol" ("Soil of Bengal, Water of Bengal"), invoking a shared cultural identity that transcended religious faith.&nbsp;Similar marches of solidarity were organised in &nbsp;Dhaka and Sylhet to make a loud statement of resistance against the partition of Bengal. For those who walked the streets singing Tagore songs of unity, Rakhi went beyond familial bonds and became a symbol of national unity.&nbsp;Rakhi, thus became a visual representation against British rule. Tagore’s move was seen as a strong statement of unity that could not be broken on the basis of religion.&nbsp;The simple act of tying a thread became one of the defining symbols of the Swadeshi movement, successfully rallying mass participation across socio-economic and religious lines.&nbsp;The sustained public pressure and unified agitation eventually compelled the British Crown to annul the Partition of Bengal in 1911.&nbsp;Tagore’s legacy of using Raksha Bandhan remains one of modern history’s most profound examples of using cultural symbols to unite divided communities. Once perceived as a festival for familial bonds, the same sacred thread became a symbol of unity against oppression and communal divide.&nbsp;A century later, Rakhi has evolved in ways that celebrate bonds. One doesn’t need a brother or a sister to celebrate the bond of love. Rakhi remains one of those Indian festivals that celebrate brotherhood and friendships, reiterating that traditions evolve with time, sometimes as a mark of resistance, and at other times to celebrate bonds.&nbsp;

At the dawn of the 20th century in India, Nobel Laureate Rabindranath Tagore used Rakhi as a symbol for communal harmony and to protest against the partition of Bengal in 1905. Thus, the traditional festival got a nationalist spin to resist oppression. 

The festival of Rakshabandhan or Rakhi traditionally celebrates the bond of siblings, particularly of brothers and sisters. Over the years, the celebration has taken on its own spin, with siblings, irrespective of gender, celebrating their bond. A typical Hindu festival, Rakshabandhan has, over the decades, served different purposes and meanings for different communities. In East India, Rakhi was introduced by poet Rabindranath Tagore, not as a festival for brothers and sisters, but to fortify a bond between Hindus and Muslims, and prevent Bengal’s partition in 1905 by the British. The world we live in is polarised. Lines are often drawn based on one's religion and colour. A moment from history serves as a timely reminder of religious harmony that once existed in India. On Rakshabandhan, here’s a look back at a time when the sacred thread was used to resist division on religious lines. A move that was Rakhi celebration to stop Bengal’s partition At the dawn of the 20th century, Bengal was at its peak of nationalist movement. This emerged as a big threat to the British Raj. Thus, in 1905, Lord Curzon announced the Partition of Bengal, a policy explicitly designed to divide the region along religious lines—creating a Muslim-majority Eastern Bengal and Assam, and a Hindu-majority Western Bengal. While it was termed an administrative restructuring, it was, in reality, a means of dividing the region that had become the epicentre of nationalism and nationalist activities. In response, Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore conceived a masterstroke of cultural resistance. Rather than relying solely on political speeches or petitions, Tagore drew on the traditional festival of Rakshabandhan to make a statement about Hindu-Muslim unity in Bengal. Rakhi was till then historically known as a domestic ritual where sisters tie protective threads (rakhis) on their brothers' wrists, but Tagore reimagined the custom as a public act of communal solidarity. Celebrating Rakhi in Muslim neighbourhoods of Kolkata On October 16, 1905—the day partition officially took effect—Tagore declared a day of widespread mourning (Arandhan), asking Bengalis to shut their kitchens as a sign of shared grief. He then called upon Hindus and Muslims across the province to step into the streets and tie yellow silk threads onto each other’s wrists, symbolising an unbreakable, sacred bond of brotherhood. Tagore personally led a massive procession down the streets of Kolkata after taking a ritual dip in the Ganges. Barefoot and singing patriotic songs, the procession marched directly into Muslim-dominated neighbourhoods of Kolkata. Tagore and his followers visited local mosques, market stalls, and homes, tying rakhis onto Muslim clerics, shopkeepers, and labourers. Tagore even composed the famous song "Banglar Mati, Banglar Jol" ("Soil of Bengal, Water of Bengal"), invoking a shared cultural identity that transcended religious faith. Similar marches of solidarity were organised in Dhaka and Sylhet to make a loud statement of resistance against the partition of Bengal. For those who walked the streets singing Tagore songs of unity, Rakhi went beyond familial bonds and became a symbol of national unity. Rakhi, thus became a visual representation against British rule. Tagore’s move was seen as a strong statement of unity that could not be broken on the basis of religion. The simple act of tying a thread became one of the defining symbols of the Swadeshi movement, successfully rallying mass participation across socio-economic and religious lines. The sustained public pressure and unified agitation eventually compelled the British Crown to annul the Partition of Bengal in 1911. Tagore’s legacy of using Raksha Bandhan remains one of modern history’s most profound examples of using cultural symbols to unite divided communities. Once perceived as a festival for familial bonds, the same sacred thread became a symbol of unity against oppression and communal divide. A century later, Rakhi has evolved in ways that celebrate bonds. One doesn’t need a brother or a sister to celebrate the bond of love. Rakhi remains one of those Indian festivals that celebrate brotherhood and friendships, reiterating that traditions evolve with time, sometimes as a mark of resistance, and at other times to celebrate bonds.

At the dawn of the 20th century in India, Nobel Laureate Rabindranath Tagore used Rakhi as a symbol for communal harmony and to protest against the partition of Bengal in 1905. Thus, the traditional festival got a nationalist spin to resist oppression.&nbsp;

When Rakhi unified Bengal: The story of Rabindranath Tagore’s 1905 anti-partition protest

US President Donald Trump may be heading into the 2026 midterm elections with a problem that could prove costly: women, including white women who helped him expand the Republican coalition in 2024, are showing signs of pulling away. A new national poll shows that white women are falling out of love with Trump, and Democrats may be benefiting from it and are moving from a clear deficit to an eight-point lead among a voting bloc that has long leaned Republican.A national survey of 1,604 women by Bellwether Research and Consulting found that only 32 per cent approve of Trump's job performance. That is well below the roughly 46 per cent of women who backed him in the 2024 presidential election. Even among women who voted for Trump, one in four now disapproves of his performance.The shift is particularly striking among white women, reports The Times. The Bellwether data shows Republicans led Democrats 55 per cent to 44 per cent among white women in 2024. In August 2026, that has flipped, with Democrats ahead 47 per cent to 39 per cent. That is a 19-point swing in the Democratic direction.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-canada-trade-war-trump-orders-lake-ontario-renamed-lake-america-canada-hits-back-1787878478524">US-Canada trade war: Canada hits back as Trump orders Lake Ontario renamed 'Lake America'</a><h2>Economy is a bigger concern than Trump's cultural agenda</h2>The numbers suggest that household finances may be doing more damage to Trump's standing with women than the cultural issues that have defined much of his second term.In the Bellwether survey, 38 per cent of women named the economy and cost of living as the country's most important issue. Healthcare, Medicare, and Social Security came next at 17 per cent, followed by democracy, government, and the rule of law at 11 per cent. Several of Trump's signature policies also faced majority opposition.Around 68 per cent opposed the planned White House ballroom, including 43 per cent of Republican women. Tariffs were opposed by 63 per cent, while 61 per cent opposed data centres being built in their states.The survey also found 55 per cent opposed splitting the MMR vaccine into three separate shots and 53 per cent opposed increased glyphosate production. Deportations by Immigration and Customs Enforcement were opposed by 51 per cent, although Republican women remained strongly supportive.<h2>White women could become a major midterm problem</h2>The white women's numbers stand out because this was a group Republicans performed particularly well with in recent elections.In 2022, Republican candidates led among white women in the House vote by 8 points. That advantage widened to 11 points in 2024. However, the latest Bellwether figures put Democrats 8 points ahead.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-mojtaba-khamenei-alive-dead-iran-war-putting-on-show-mystery-1787800507116">'If he is dead, they're putting on a pretty good show': Trump casts fresh doubt over Mojtaba Khamenei's fate</a><h2>Not a happy White House</h2>The polling comes at a time when the president's relationship with his own staff is reportedly becoming strained. According to New York Times reporter Maggie Haberman, Trump's White House is "not a happy White House" and said many staff members are already thinking about leaving."Most people have decided that they want to go do something else," Haberman told MS Now.She also said Trump has been "lashing out" at staff, particularly when political circumstances are not going his way. "He is not in a great place with his staff, according to everyone we talked to," Haberman said.The White House responded by attacking Haberman personally, accusing her of being obsessed with Trump.<h2>Karoline Leavitt's exit adds to the questions</h2>One of the most prominent departures is White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, who left her post this week after saying she wanted to spend more time with her young family. Trump has backed her decision and said she will remain a top outside adviser and influential voice in Republican politics.

A key voting bloc that helped Donald Trump expand the Republican coalition in 2024 is showing signs of shifting again. New polling suggests women, particularly white women, could emerge as a major problem for Trump and Republicans in the 2026 midterms.

US President Donald Trump may be heading into the 2026 midterm elections with a problem that could prove costly: women, including white women who helped him expand the Republican coalition in 2024, are showing signs of pulling away. A new national poll shows that white women are falling out of love with Trump, and Democrats may be benefiting from it and are moving from a clear deficit to an eight-point lead among a voting bloc that has long leaned Republican. A national survey of 1,604 women by Bellwether Research and Consulting found that only 32 per cent approve of Trump's job performance. That is well below the roughly 46 per cent of women who backed him in the 2024 presidential election. Even among women who voted for Trump, one in four now disapproves of his performance. The shift is particularly striking among white women, reports The Times. The Bellwether data shows Republicans led Democrats 55 per cent to 44 per cent among white women in 2024. In August 2026, that has flipped, with Democrats ahead 47 per cent to 39 per cent. That is a 19-point swing in the Democratic direction. Also read | US-Canada trade war: Canada hits back as Trump orders Lake Ontario renamed 'Lake America' Economy is a bigger concern than Trump's cultural agenda The numbers suggest that household finances may be doing more damage to Trump's standing with women than the cultural issues that have defined much of his second term. In the Bellwether survey, 38 per cent of women named the economy and cost of living as the country's most important issue. Healthcare, Medicare, and Social Security came next at 17 per cent, followed by democracy, government, and the rule of law at 11 per cent. Several of Trump's signature policies also faced majority opposition. Around 68 per cent opposed the planned White House ballroom, including 43 per cent of Republican women. Tariffs were opposed by 63 per cent, while 61 per cent opposed data centres being built in their states. The survey also found 55 per cent opposed splitting the MMR vaccine into three separate shots and 53 per cent opposed increased glyphosate production. Deportations by Immigration and Customs Enforcement were opposed by 51 per cent, although Republican women remained strongly supportive. White women could become a major midterm problem The white women's numbers stand out because this was a group Republicans performed particularly well with in recent elections. In 2022, Republican candidates led among white women in the House vote by 8 points. That advantage widened to 11 points in 2024. However, the latest Bellwether figures put Democrats 8 points ahead. Also read | 'If he is dead, they're putting on a pretty good show': Trump casts fresh doubt over Mojtaba Khamenei's fate Not a happy White House The polling comes at a time when the president's relationship with his own staff is reportedly becoming strained. According to New York Times reporter Maggie Haberman, Trump's White House is "not a happy White House" and said many staff members are already thinking about leaving. "Most people have decided that they want to go do something else," Haberman told MS Now. She also said Trump has been "lashing out" at staff, particularly when political circumstances are not going his way. "He is not in a great place with his staff, according to everyone we talked to," Haberman said. The White House responded by attacking Haberman personally, accusing her of being obsessed with Trump. Karoline Leavitt's exit adds to the questions One of the most prominent departures is White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, who left her post this week after saying she wanted to spend more time with her young family. Trump has backed her decision and said she will remain a top outside adviser and influential voice in Republican politics.

A key voting bloc that helped Donald Trump expand the Republican coalition in 2024 is showing signs of shifting again. New polling suggests women, particularly white women, could emerge as a major problem for Trump and Republicans in the 2026 midterms.

Trump's women problem? White women abandoning Republicans ahead of 2026 midterms, shows report

US President Donald Trump has placed himself at the top of a personal ranking of America’s former presidents, declaring himself “The Greatest” while assigning lower ratings to several historically prominent leaders. Trump, 80, shared the ranking in a post on Truth Social on Thursday (Aug 27), placing himself in a category above those he described as “Great”.&nbsp;Former Presidents Abraham Lincoln, George Washington, Franklin D Roosevelt, Woodrow Wilson, Thomas Jefferson and Andrew Jackson were placed in Trump’s “Great” category. Roosevelt, who died in 1945, was the most recent president included in Trump’s hand-picked “Great” list.&nbsp;Trump placed several other former presidents, including Theodore Roosevelt, in the “Near Great” category. Former President Bill Clinton was rated “Average”, while Calvin Coolidge was placed in the “Below Average” group.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/video-remember-the-coupe-who-climbed-empire-state-building-they-are-facing-burglary-criminal-mischief-charges-1787659415861">Video | Remember the couple who climbed Empire State Building? They are facing burglary, criminal mischief charges</a>&nbsp;The “Failures” category included Democratic former presidents Barack Obama, Joe Biden and Jimmy Carter. Trump also placed Republican presidents Ulysses S Grant and Warren Harding in the category. Trump attended Carter’s state funeral last year.<h2>Kennedy, Reagan among notable absences</h2>Trump’s ranking did not include several prominent former presidents, including John F Kennedy, Ronald Reagan, Richard Nixon, Harry S Truman, Gerald Ford, Dwight D Eisenhower and Lyndon B Johnson. Both George H W Bush and George W Bush were also absent from the list, as were William Henry Harrison and James A Garfield.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wash-rice-twice-use-less-water-for-wudu-over-367-000-uk-campaign-urges-south-asians-muslims-to-save-water-amid-drought-1787563912742">‘Wash rice twice, use less water for wudu’: Over $367,000 UK campaign urges South Asians, Muslims to save water amid drought</a>&nbsp;Trump has previously spoken about his interest in Kennedy. In July, he called the former president a “great guy” and said Kennedy was considered the second-most good-looking US president. Trump also posted an AI-generated image featuring himself alongside Kennedy in July.&nbsp;

Donald Trump ranked himself "The Greatest" US president on Truth Social, placing Lincoln and Washington as "Great," Clinton as "Average," and Obama, Biden, and Carter as "Failures."

US President Donald Trump has placed himself at the top of a personal ranking of America’s former presidents, declaring himself “The Greatest” while assigning lower ratings to several historically prominent leaders. Trump, 80, shared the ranking in a post on Truth Social on Thursday (Aug 27), placing himself in a category above those he described as “Great”. Former Presidents Abraham Lincoln, George Washington, Franklin D Roosevelt, Woodrow Wilson, Thomas Jefferson and Andrew Jackson were placed in Trump’s “Great” category. Roosevelt, who died in 1945, was the most recent president included in Trump’s hand-picked “Great” list. Trump placed several other former presidents, including Theodore Roosevelt, in the “Near Great” category. Former President Bill Clinton was rated “Average”, while Calvin Coolidge was placed in the “Below Average” group.

Donald Trump ranked himself "The Greatest" US president on Truth Social, placing Lincoln and Washington as "Great," Clinton as "Average," and Obama, Biden, and Carter as "Failures."&nbsp;

‘Great, near great, below average’: Trump puts himself above Lincoln, Washington in bizarre ranking of ‘greatest’ US presidents

Iran's Secretary of the Supreme National Security Council, Major General Mohsen Rezaei, has warned that continued US pressure on Tehran could trigger a much more serious confrontation, while issuing fresh threats against Israel and its Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.In an interview with Al-Manar, reported by Iran's state news agency IRIB, Rezaei said Tehran would respond forcefully if the blockade remained in place. He also claimed that any renewed conflict with Israel would be different from previous rounds of fighting.<h2>Rezaei threatens Netanyahu</h2>Rezaei made a direct threat against Netanyahu during the interview. "We will send Benjamin Netanyahu, the Prime Minister of the Zionist regime, to hell," he said, according to IRIB.He also claimed that Netanyahu had spread false reports about an alleged Iranian plot to assassinate US President Donald Trump's son. Rezaei alleged that the reports had alarmed Trump and affected his decision-making."Netanyahu has panicked Trump and disrupted his decision-making by spreading false news about an 'Iranian plot to assassinate Trump,'" he said.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/glorifies-terrorism-israeli-far-right-mp-zvi-sukkot-smashes-palestinian-memorial-with-sledgehammer-watch-video-1787810944014">'Glorifies terrorism': Israeli far-right MP Zvi Sukkot smashes Palestinian memorial with sledgehammer | WATCH</a><h2>Warning over Lebanon</h2>Rezaei also addressed tensions involving Israel and Lebanon, saying that Dahiyeh and Beirut remained Iranian "red lines"."We are monitoring the situation with full seriousness," he said, adding that Israel would be forced to withdraw from occupied territory in Lebanon."If the conflict resumes, we are preparing ourselves for a new phase; any future war will be different from the previous ones," Rezaei said.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-mojtaba-khamenei-alive-dead-iran-war-putting-on-show-mystery-1787800507116">'If he is dead, they're putting on a pretty good show': Trump casts fresh doubt over Mojtaba Khamenei's fate</a><h2>Iran threatens US economic interests</h2>Rezaei linked the widening US economic pressure campaign to what he described as the failure of military action to force Tehran into submission. "The US shift to economic pressure demonstrated the futility of military strikes," he said. He warned that Iran would respond to any further escalation by targeting US economic interests in the region.Rezaei also claimed Iran had exported between 70 million and 80 million barrels of oil during the ceasefire period, saying Tehran had managed to break through the naval blockade."Continuing the siege means a severe confrontation with the American enemy," he said. "If the blockade continues, we will target American economic interests 100 per cent, with intensity and force."

Iran's top security official has issued fresh warnings to Washington and Israel as pressure on Tehran intensifies. He has threatened a forceful response if the blockade continues and warned that any renewed conflict with Israel could enter a very different phase.

Iran's Secretary of the Supreme National Security Council, Major General Mohsen Rezaei, has warned that continued US pressure on Tehran could trigger a much more serious confrontation, while issuing fresh threats against Israel and its Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. In an interview with Al-Manar, reported by Iran's state news agency IRIB, Rezaei said Tehran would respond forcefully if the blockade remained in place. He also claimed that any renewed conflict with Israel would be different from previous rounds of fighting. Rezaei threatens Netanyahu Rezaei made a direct threat against Netanyahu during the interview. "We will send Benjamin Netanyahu, the Prime Minister of the Zionist regime, to hell," he said, according to IRIB. He also claimed that Netanyahu had spread false reports about an alleged Iranian plot to assassinate US President Donald Trump's son. Rezaei alleged that the reports had alarmed Trump and affected his decision-making. "Netanyahu has panicked Trump and disrupted his decision-making by spreading false news about an 'Iranian plot to assassinate Trump,'" he said. Also read | 'Glorifies terrorism': Israeli far-right MP Zvi Sukkot smashes Palestinian memorial with sledgehammer | WATCH Warning over Lebanon Rezaei also addressed tensions involving Israel and Lebanon, saying that Dahiyeh and Beirut remained Iranian "red lines". "We are monitoring the situation with full seriousness," he said, adding that Israel would be forced to withdraw from occupied territory in Lebanon. "If the conflict resumes, we are preparing ourselves for a new phase; any future war will be different from the previous ones," Rezaei said. Also read | 'If he is dead, they're putting on a pretty good show': Trump casts fresh doubt over Mojtaba Khamenei's fate Iran threatens US economic interests Rezaei linked the widening US economic pressure campaign to what he described as the failure of military action to force Tehran into submission. "The US shift to economic pressure demonstrated the futility of military strikes," he said. He warned that Iran would respond to any further escalation by targeting US economic interests in the region. Rezaei also claimed Iran had exported between 70 million and 80 million barrels of oil during the ceasefire period, saying Tehran had managed to break through the naval blockade. "Continuing the siege means a severe confrontation with the American enemy," he said. "If the blockade continues, we will target American economic interests 100 per cent, with intensity and force."

Iran's top security official has issued fresh warnings to Washington and Israel as pressure on Tehran intensifies. He has threatened a forceful response if the blockade continues and warned that any renewed conflict with Israel could enter a very different phase.

Iran warns of 'severe confrontation' with US if blockade continues, Rezaei threatens to 'send Netanyahu to hell'

Two people have been arrested for reportedly stealing gold earrings from the body of a deceased woman swept downstream during flooding in the Narayani River of Nepal. This comes amid the rescue operation following the catastrophic flash floods in a border area of China and Nepal. Both the accused were arrested after a video surfaced on social media showing the two individuals removing what are believed to be gold earrings from the dead body of a woman washed away during the flood. Resharing the 41-second clip, Nepal police confirmed that both the accused have been taken into custody for stealing the earrings. The footage captured both the men pulling the woman's body from the water using wooden boards and her hair to pull her out before taking her ears and setting them nearby. Later, Chitwan Police determined the body had been carried into the Narayani River by severe flooding.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">मृतकको कानको मुन्द्रा चोरी गर्ने व्यक्तिहरु नियन्त्रणमा लिएको सम्बन्धमा । <a href="https://t.co/pnPlnQPn9j">pic.twitter.com/pnPlnQPn9j</a>&mdash; Nepal Police (@NepalPoliceHQ) <a href="https://x.com/NepalPoliceHQ/status/2092950217138339990?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 27, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h3>Accused taken into custody</h3>Based on the video, authorities identified the two men as Madan Gurung, 25, and Umesh Chaudhary, 38. Both were taken into custody near Pokhara Bus Park in Bharatpur Metropolitan City-1 on Thursday, according to police cited by the Nepali outlet Khabarhub. Officials warned that theft or other inhumane conduct toward disaster victims would be met with zero tolerance. The case has surfaced during one of Nepal's worst flooding disasters in recent memory. Search-and-rescue crews continue combing through mud for over 1,400 people still unaccounted for after flash floods and landslides devastated the Nepal-Tibet border region; the confirmed death toll has climbed to at least 392, with some villages destroyed entirely. Across the border in Tibet, a massive mudslide on Wednesday buried a multi-level building at the Gyirong Port crossing and covered a bus lot, leaving mud deposits averaging more than 1.5 meters (about 5 feet) deep in nearby areas.

Officials warned that theft or other inhumane conduct toward disaster victims would be met with zero tolerance. The case has surfaced during one of Nepal's worst flooding disasters in recent memory.

Two people have been arrested for reportedly stealing gold earrings from the body of a deceased woman swept downstream during flooding in the Narayani River of Nepal. This comes amid the rescue operation following the catastrophic flash floods in a border area of China and Nepal. Both the accused were arrested after a video surfaced on social media showing the two individuals removing what are believed to be gold earrings from the dead body of a woman washed away during the flood. Resharing the 41-second clip, Nepal police confirmed that both the accused have been taken into custody for stealing the earrings. The footage captured both the men pulling the woman's body from the water using wooden boards and her hair to pull her out before taking her ears and setting them nearby. Later, Chitwan Police determined the body had been carried into the Narayani River by severe flooding.

Officials warned that theft or other inhumane conduct toward disaster victims would be met with zero tolerance. The case has surfaced during one of Nepal's worst flooding disasters in recent memory.

Caught on cam: Two arrested for stealing gold earrings from flood victim's body in Nepal

A 72-year-old South Korean man in Japan has been arrested for reportedly overstaying his visa by more than 26 years after police received a tip in June, Shizuoka Prefectural Police confirmed on Thursday (August 27). The man arrested on Wednesday came to Japan in September 1993 using his brother's passport on a 15-day tourist visa to get a higher-paying job in the country, police said. The suspect, a resident of Yaizu in Shizuoka Prefecture, is believed to have been living in Japan without proper status since 1993. At the time, overstaying a visa carried no criminal penalty; that only changed when an amended immigration law came into force in February 2000. As a result, police based his arrest on unlawful overstaying dating from that point forward rather than from when he first arrived.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-canada-trade-war-trump-orders-lake-ontario-renamed-lake-america-canada-hits-back-1787878478524">US-Canada trade war: Canada hits back as Trump orders Lake Ontario renamed ‘Lake America’</a> He reportedly told investigators he had been supporting himself through casual daily labour, and he has admitted to the offence. Justice Ministry figures put the current number of visa overstayers at 68,488 as of January 2026, a sharp drop from the all-time high of 298,646 recorded in 1993.

The suspect, a resident of Yaizu in Shizuoka Prefecture, is believed to have been living in Japan without proper status since 1993. At the time, overstaying a visa carried no criminal penalty; that only changed when an amended immigration law came into force in February 2000. 

A 72-year-old South Korean man in Japan has been arrested for reportedly overstaying his visa by more than 26 years after police received a tip in June, Shizuoka Prefectural Police confirmed on Thursday (August 27). The man arrested on Wednesday came to Japan in September 1993 using his brother's passport on a 15-day tourist visa to get a higher-paying job in the country, police said. The suspect, a resident of Yaizu in Shizuoka Prefecture, is believed to have been living in Japan without proper status since 1993. At the time, overstaying a visa carried no criminal penalty; that only changed when an amended immigration law came into force in February 2000. As a result, police based his arrest on unlawful overstaying dating from that point forward rather than from when he first arrived. Also read: US-Canada trade war: Canada hits back as Trump orders Lake Ontario renamed ‘Lake America’ He reportedly told investigators he had been supporting himself through casual daily labour, and he has admitted to the offence. Justice Ministry figures put the current number of visa overstayers at 68,488 as of January 2026, a sharp drop from the all-time high of 298,646 recorded in 1993.

The suspect, a resident of Yaizu in Shizuoka Prefecture, is believed to have been living in Japan without proper status since 1993. At the time, overstaying a visa carried no criminal penalty; that only changed when an amended immigration law came into force in February 2000.&nbsp;

72-year-old South Korean man held for overstaying visa in Japan for 26 Years

Chinese authorities have warned that an artificial lake formed by a massive mudslide on the China-Nepal border is at "high risk" of breaching, raising fears of another surge of floodwater downstream as rescue teams continue searching for more than 1,400 missing people.State-run Xinhua reported late Thursday (Aug 27) that continued rainfall could push inflows into the newly formed lake to around 3 million cubic metres over the next three days."According to forecasts, inflows into the lake could reach about 3 million cubic meters over the next three days amid continued rainfall, increasing the risk of a breach that could send floodwaters downstream and potentially cause further damage in areas including Gyirong Port and elsewhere downstream," Xinhua reported.The warning adds a new layer of danger to a disaster that has already killed hundreds across the Nepal-Tibet border region.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/absolute-pain-sadhguru-breaks-down-as-80-pilgrims-remain-missing-after-nepal-floods-1787830539827">‘Absolute pain’: Sadhguru breaks down over missing pilgrims in Nepal floods</a><h2>'It is a giant graveyard': Death toll rises as rescue teams search through mud</h2>Rescue workers in Nepal continued digging through thick mud and debris on Thursday as the death toll rose to 392.Nepali police said 389 bodies had been recovered, while 910 people in Nepal remained out of contact, including 517 foreign tourists.The disaster swept away entire settlements, bridges, vehicles and other infrastructure in a sudden wall of water, ice and mud.A Nepali customs agent who survived after reaching higher ground in Timure described the destruction in stark terms."It is a giant graveyard," 35-year-old Omkar Joshi told AFP. "All that is left are sand and pebbles, soaked red by human blood."<h2>More missing in Tibet</h2>The disaster has also hit communities and travellers on the Chinese side of the border. Chinese state media reported that the mudslide at Gyirong Port in Tibet killed three people, while 558 people, including 260 foreigners, remain missing.China said nearly 800 emergency workers had been deployed, along with sniffer dogs and speed boats. Premier Li Qiang also visited the affected area on Thursday to oversee the relief operation.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/blankets-sleeping-bags-solar-lamps-and-more-list-of-things-india-sent-to-nepal-in-47-5-tonnes-of-humanitarian-aid-1787827243774">Blankets, sleeping bags, solar lamps, more: List of things India sent to Nepal</a><h2>Fresh flood fears after debris blocks the river</h2>The newly formed lake is adding urgency to the rescue operation. Experts have warned that huge amounts of debris remain lodged upstream along the Nepal-China border river, creating the possibility of another flood.Qianggong Zhang, who heads climate and environmental risks at the Kathmandu-based International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development, said authorities were already worried that another surge could occur.Nepal's Flood Forecasting Division issued a special notice on Thursday warning of the growing lake behind the landslide debris and urging people to remain extremely cautious.<h2>'Inland tsunami' struck the region</h2>The initial disaster has been described as resembling an inland tsunami. The US Geological Survey said the disaster was initially reported as a magnitude 4.4 earthquake but later analysis of seismic recordings indicated that it was actually caused by a glacial collapse and debris flow.

The tragic disaster on the Nepal-Tibet border has a dangerous new twist. China says a massive lake formed by a mudslide is at high risk of breaching as more rain is forecast, raising fears of another flood surge downstream.

Chinese authorities have warned that an artificial lake formed by a massive mudslide on the China-Nepal border is at "high risk" of breaching, raising fears of another surge of floodwater downstream as rescue teams continue searching for more than 1,400 missing people. State-run Xinhua reported late Thursday (Aug 27) that continued rainfall could push inflows into the newly formed lake to around 3 million cubic metres over the next three days. "According to forecasts, inflows into the lake could reach about 3 million cubic meters over the next three days amid continued rainfall, increasing the risk of a breach that could send floodwaters downstream and potentially cause further damage in areas including Gyirong Port and elsewhere downstream," Xinhua reported. The warning adds a new layer of danger to a disaster that has already killed hundreds across the Nepal-Tibet border region. Also read | ‘Absolute pain’: Sadhguru breaks down over missing pilgrims in Nepal floods 'It is a giant graveyard': Death toll rises as rescue teams search through mud Rescue workers in Nepal continued digging through thick mud and debris on Thursday as the death toll rose to 392. Nepali police said 389 bodies had been recovered, while 910 people in Nepal remained out of contact, including 517 foreign tourists. The disaster swept away entire settlements, bridges, vehicles and other infrastructure in a sudden wall of water, ice and mud. A Nepali customs agent who survived after reaching higher ground in Timure described the destruction in stark terms. "It is a giant graveyard," 35-year-old Omkar Joshi told AFP. "All that is left are sand and pebbles, soaked red by human blood." More missing in Tibet The disaster has also hit communities and travellers on the Chinese side of the border. Chinese state media reported that the mudslide at Gyirong Port in Tibet killed three people, while 558 people, including 260 foreigners, remain missing. China said nearly 800 emergency workers had been deployed, along with sniffer dogs and speed boats. Premier Li Qiang also visited the affected area on Thursday to oversee the relief operation. Also read | Blankets, sleeping bags, solar lamps, more: List of things India sent to Nepal Fresh flood fears after debris blocks the river The newly formed lake is adding urgency to the rescue operation. Experts have warned that huge amounts of debris remain lodged upstream along the Nepal-China border river, creating the possibility of another flood. Qianggong Zhang, who heads climate and environmental risks at the Kathmandu-based International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development, said authorities were already worried that another surge could occur. Nepal's Flood Forecasting Division issued a special notice on Thursday warning of the growing lake behind the landslide debris and urging people to remain extremely cautious. 'Inland tsunami' struck the region The initial disaster has been described as resembling an inland tsunami. The US Geological Survey said the disaster was initially reported as a magnitude 4.4 earthquake but later analysis of seismic recordings indicated that it was actually caused by a glacial collapse and debris flow.

The tragic disaster on the Nepal-Tibet border has a dangerous new twist. China says a massive lake formed by a mudslide is at high risk of breaching as more rain is forecast, raising fears of another flood surge downstream.

Nepal floods: China warns artificial lake formed after mudslide could breach, send more floodwaters downstream

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney on Thursday (Aug 27) rejected US President Donald Trump's move to rename Lake Ontario, saying the body of water will remain "Lake Ontario - then, now and always".Carney hit back after Trump signed an executive order on Thursday directing the US government to begin using "Lake America" for the lake shared by Canada and the United States. "We know that America is changing," Carney said in a post on X. “Canadians also know that naming reality means calling it Lake Ontario - then, now and always.”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">The name Lake Ontario comes from the Wendat word Ontari’io, which, appropriately, means “the lake is beautiful, the lake is big”. The name is more than 400 years old, predating both the Confederation of Canada and the Declaration of Independence of the United States of America.…&mdash; Mark Carney (@MarkJCarney) <a href="https://x.com/MarkJCarney/status/2093066041286910329?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 27, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-mojtaba-khamenei-alive-dead-iran-war-putting-on-show-mystery-1787800507116">'If he is dead, they're putting on a pretty good show': Trump casts fresh doubt over Mojtaba Khamenei's fate</a><h2>Why Trump wants the name changed</h2>Trump's order directs the US Department of the Interior to update references to the lake in the country's official geographical naming system within 30 days and require federal agencies to use "Lake America".The order argues that the deepest part of the lake lies on the US side and that the United States therefore "claims most of the Lake's volume". Trump had floated the idea earlier this week before confirming the change in a video posted on TikTok.During Thursday's event, he also appeared to joke about going even further. "We have a gulf and we have a lake. Now all we need is an ocean," Trump said. "So, maybe we'll have to change the name of the Atlantic and/or the Pacific. Maybe we'll change them both." He also announced the name change on Truth Social.

<h2>Canada refuses to accept the change</h2>Lake Ontario is the smallest of the five Great Lakes by surface area and sits along the border between Canada's Ontario province and New York state in the US.Carney pointed to the lake's long history, saying its name dates back around 400 years and predates both the United States and Canada as modern states. He said the name comes from an Indigenous word referring to the lake as beautiful or large.Trump's latest move echoes his decision to rename the Gulf of Mexico as the "Gulf of America" in January 2025, a change that was also rejected by Mexico.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/oh-my-god-we-ve-found-other-agents-investigators-discover-not-one-or-two-almost-700-openai-ai-agents-went-rogue-hacked-hugging-face-1787793202974">'OH MY GOD! We've found other agents!': Investigators discover not one or two, almost 700 OpenAI AI agents went rogue, hacked Hugging Face</a><h2>Trade war adds to tensions</h2>The lake dispute comes as relations between Washington and Ottawa face another sharp downturn. Trade negotiations between the two countries broke down last week, leading to retaliatory tariffs and further tension between the longtime allies.Trump has repeatedly criticised Canada and has even pushed the idea of making it the 51st US state. His administration has also made territorial claims involving Greenland and has spoken about expanding US control elsewhere.&nbsp;

The Canada-US trade war has taken an unexpected turn. Donald Trump has ordered a new name for the lake shared by the two countries: Lake Ontario. But Canada is refusing to play along. All you need to know.

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney on Thursday (Aug 27) rejected US President Donald Trump's move to rename Lake Ontario, saying the body of water will remain "Lake Ontario - then, now and always". Carney hit back after Trump signed an executive order on Thursday directing the US government to begin using "Lake America" for the lake shared by Canada and the United States. "We know that America is changing," Carney said in a post on X. “Canadians also know that naming reality means calling it Lake Ontario - then, now and always.”

The Canada-US trade war has taken an unexpected turn. Donald Trump has ordered a new name for the lake shared by the two countries: Lake Ontario. But Canada is refusing to play along. All you need to know.

US-Canada trade war: Canada hits back as Trump orders Lake Ontario renamed 'Lake America'

Raksha Bandhan is a festival that celebrates the beautiful bond of love, protection, and togetherness between siblings. This special occasion brings brothers and sisters closer as they exchange heartfelt wishes, gifts, sweets, and blessings.&nbsp;On this auspicious day, we have curated a list of 50+ heartfelt wishes, messages, quotes, and beautiful images that you can share with your siblings to make the celebration even more memorable.<h2>50+ heartfelt messages, quotes, WhatsApp images, and greetings for brothers and sisters</h2>&nbsp;Check out this list of heartfelt and meaningful Raksha Bandhan wishes and messages that you can share with your siblings to make the occasion extra special.<h3>Raksha Bandhan 2026 wishes</h3>1. Happy Raksha Bandhan 2026! May the bond we share always be filled with love, trust, and endless happiness.2. Wishing you a very happy Raksha Bandhan. May the festival be filled with joy, laughter, and beautiful memories. Thank you for always being by my side.3. On this special day, I pray for your health, happiness, and success. Happy Raksha Bandhan!4. No matter how far we are, our bond remains unbreakable. Wishing you a very Happy Raksha Bandhan 2026.5. Thank you for being my protector, guide, and best friend. May our bond grow stronger with every passing year.6. Happy Raksha Bandhan to the most amazing brother! May your life be blessed with love, prosperity, and good fortune.7. Today is a reminder of the countless memories we've created together. Here's to many more. Happy Raksha Bandhan!8. May this Raksha Bandhan strengthen the bond of love and trust between us and bring happiness to our lives.9. Having a sibling like you is one of life's greatest blessings. Wishing you a joyful and memorable Raksha Bandhan.10. On this Raksha Bandhan, I send you my love, prayers, and warm wishes. May our bond always remain strong and cherished.<h2>Raksha Bandhan 2026 quotes</h2>11. "A sibling is a forever friend."12. "No matter the distance, siblings always stay connected."13. "Life is better with a brother or sister by your side."14. "Siblings make the best memories together."15. "Raksha Bandhan celebrates a bond that lasts a lifetime."16. "A brother's support and a sister's love are priceless."17. "Growing up together is life's greatest gift."18. "Siblings may argue, but they always care for each other."19. "The love between siblings only grows stronger with time."20. "Raksha Bandhan is all about love, laughter and togetherness."<h2>Raksha Bandhan 2026 WhatsApp messages</h2>21. Happy Raksha Bandhan! Wishing you lots of happiness, good health, and success in everything you do.22. Sending you love, blessings, and warm wishes on this special day. Happy Raksha Bandhan!23. No matter how much we tease each other, I’m grateful to have you in my life. Happy Raksha Bandhan!24. Thank you for being my biggest supporter and my closest companion. Wishing you a wonderful Raksha Bandhan.25. May our bond always remain strong and filled with love. Happy Raksha Bandhan 2026!26. On this Raksha Bandhan, I wish you endless joy, prosperity, and beautiful moments with your loved ones.27. Distance may keep us apart, but nothing can weaken our sibling bond. Happy Raksha Bandhan!28. Here's wishing you a day filled with smiles, laughter and cherished family moments. Happy Raksha Bandhan!29. Lucky to have a sibling like you who makes every moment special. Happy Raksha Bandhan 2026!30. Celebrating the bond we share today and always. Sending you lots of love on Raksha Bandhan! ❤️<h2>Raksha Bandhan 2026 WhatsApp greetings</h2>31. Happy Raksha Bandhan! Thanks for being my favourite sibling; life would be much less entertaining without our daily arguments.32. Dear sibling, you're my favourite person to annoy. Wishing you a very Happy Raksha Bandhan!33. Raksha Bandhan is the one day when I officially remind you how lucky you are to have me.34. We may fight over the TV remote, but today I'll let you have it. Happy Raksha Bandhan!35. Happy Raksha Bandhan! Consider this message a temporary peace treaty until our next argument.36. Dear brother, thanks for always being my unpaid therapist and occasional ATM.37. No matter how much we tease each other, you're still stuck with me forever. Happy Raksha Bandhan!38. Today I promise not to reveal your embarrassing childhood secrets. You're welcome. Happy Raksha Bandhan!39. Happy Raksha Bandhan to the person who knows all my secrets and still hasn't blackmailed me... yet.40. The only person who can drive me crazy and make me laugh at the same time is you. Happy Raksha Bandhan!<h3>Raksha Bandhan 2026 WhatsApp images</h3>&nbsp;

Raksha Bandhan 2026

Raksha Bandhan 2026 is here, bringing families together to celebrate the cherished bond between brothers and sisters. As siblings exchange love, laughter, and heartfelt emotions, here's a look at 50+ wishes, messages and quotes to share with your loved ones.

Raksha Bandhan is a festival that celebrates the beautiful bond of love, protection, and togetherness between siblings. This special occasion brings brothers and sisters closer as they exchange heartfelt wishes, gifts, sweets, and blessings. On this auspicious day, we have curated a list of 50+ heartfelt wishes, messages, quotes, and beautiful images that you can share with your siblings to make the celebration even more memorable. 50+ heartfelt messages, quotes, WhatsApp images, and greetings for brothers and sisters Check out this list of heartfelt and meaningful Raksha Bandhan wishes and messages that you can share with your siblings to make the occasion extra special. Raksha Bandhan 2026 wishes 1. Happy Raksha Bandhan 2026! May the bond we share always be filled with love, trust, and endless happiness. 2. Wishing you a very happy Raksha Bandhan. May the festival be filled with joy, laughter, and beautiful memories. Thank you for always being by my side. 3. On this special day, I pray for your health, happiness, and success. Happy Raksha Bandhan! 4. No matter how far we are, our bond remains unbreakable. Wishing you a very Happy Raksha Bandhan 2026. 5. Thank you for being my protector, guide, and best friend. May our bond grow stronger with every passing year. 6. Happy Raksha Bandhan to the most amazing brother! May your life be blessed with love, prosperity, and good fortune. 7. Today is a reminder of the countless memories we've created together. Here's to many more. Happy Raksha Bandhan! 8. May this Raksha Bandhan strengthen the bond of love and trust between us and bring happiness to our lives. 9. Having a sibling like you is one of life's greatest blessings. Wishing you a joyful and memorable Raksha Bandhan. 10. On this Raksha Bandhan, I send you my love, prayers, and warm wishes. May our bond always remain strong and cherished. Raksha Bandhan 2026 quotes 11. "A sibling is a forever friend." 12. "No matter the distance, siblings always stay connected." 13. "Life is better with a brother or sister by your side." 14. "Siblings make the best memories together." 15. "Raksha Bandhan celebrates a bond that lasts a lifetime." 16. "A brother's support and a sister's love are priceless." 17. "Growing up together is life's greatest gift." 18. "Siblings may argue, but they always care for each other." 19. "The love between siblings only grows stronger with time." 20. "Raksha Bandhan is all about love, laughter and togetherness." Raksha Bandhan 2026 WhatsApp messages 21. Happy Raksha Bandhan! Wishing you lots of happiness, good health, and success in everything you do. 22. Sending you love, blessings, and warm wishes on this special day. Happy Raksha Bandhan! 23. No matter how much we tease each other, I’m grateful to have you in my life. Happy Raksha Bandhan! 24. Thank you for being my biggest supporter and my closest companion. Wishing you a wonderful Raksha Bandhan. 25. May our bond always remain strong and filled with love. Happy Raksha Bandhan 2026! 26. On this Raksha Bandhan, I wish you endless joy, prosperity, and beautiful moments with your loved ones. 27. Distance may keep us apart, but nothing can weaken our sibling bond. Happy Raksha Bandhan! 28. Here's wishing you a day filled with smiles, laughter and cherished family moments. Happy Raksha Bandhan! 29. Lucky to have a sibling like you who makes every moment special. Happy Raksha Bandhan 2026! 30. Celebrating the bond we share today and always. Sending you lots of love on Raksha Bandhan! ❤️ Raksha Bandhan 2026 WhatsApp greetings 31. Happy Raksha Bandhan! Thanks for being my favourite sibling; life would be much less entertaining without our daily arguments. 32. Dear sibling, you're my favourite person to annoy. Wishing you a very Happy Raksha Bandhan! 33. Raksha Bandhan is the one day when I officially remind you how lucky you are to have me. 34. We may fight over the TV remote, but today I'll let you have it. Happy Raksha Bandhan! 35. Happy Raksha Bandhan! Consider this message a temporary peace treaty until our next argument. 36. Dear brother, thanks for always being my unpaid therapist and occasional ATM. 37. No matter how much we tease each other, you're still stuck with me forever. Happy Raksha Bandhan! 38. Today I promise not to reveal your embarrassing childhood secrets. You're welcome. Happy Raksha Bandhan! 39. Happy Raksha Bandhan to the person who knows all my secrets and still hasn't blackmailed me... yet. 40. The only person who can drive me crazy and make me laugh at the same time is you. Happy Raksha Bandhan! Raksha Bandhan 2026 WhatsApp images

Raksha Bandhan 2026 is here, bringing families together to celebrate the cherished bond between brothers and sisters. As siblings exchange love, laughter, and heartfelt emotions, here's a look at 50+ wishes, messages, and quotes to share with your loved ones.

Raksha Bandhan 2026: 50+ heartfelt messages, quotes, WhatsApp images and greetings for brothers and sisters

Former Sri Lankan Finance Minister Ali Sabry has credited Indian Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman with turning the tide in Colombo’s favour during a crucial meeting with International Monetary Fund (IMF) representatives over Sri Lanka’s economic crisis.&nbsp;Speaking about the negotiations that led to Sri Lanka’s IMF programme, Sabry said India’s support went beyond diplomatic goodwill. Sri Lanka was facing severe economic problems at the time, including foreign exchange shortages, high inflation and shortages of fuel and medicines.&nbsp;India was among the first countries to provide emergency financial support to Sri Lanka during the 2022 crisis. It extended billions of dollars in credit lines to help the country meet essential import needs. Sabry said India’s early support sent a strong message to the international community about Colombo’s ability to pursue an economic recovery.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Sri Lanka’s former Finance Minister Ali Sabry reveals how the IMF was initially reluctant to provide assistance to Sri Lanka during its 2022 economic crisis. He says India and FM <a href="https://x.com/nsitharaman?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@nsitharaman</a> stepped in, with Nirmala Sitharaman meeting IMF chief Kristalina Georgieva and pushing… <a href="https://t.co/ImhXN6bNpv">pic.twitter.com/ImhXN6bNpv</a>&mdash; Facts (@BefittingFacts) <a href="https://x.com/BefittingFacts/status/2092634468200902744?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 26, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delimitation-row-congress-calls-for-lok-sabha-strength-to-be-frozen-at-543-for-25-years-1787842624022">Delimitation row: Congress calls for Lok Sabha strength to be frozen at 543 for 25 years</a><h3>Sabry recalls tense IMF talks</h3>Sabry said he faced a difficult response when he travelled to Washington for discussions with IMF officials. He said the organisation’s regional directors remained doubtful about Sri Lanka’s ability to secure support.&nbsp;“When I went to Washington, I had a meeting with the regional directors, and they were very negative about Sri Lanka. They said 16 times this has happened. I was disappointed. You know, for the first time, we are trying to tell different things. They were not willing to listen. I thought they lacked empathy,” he said.&nbsp;Sabry was scheduled to meet IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva and IMF Deputy Managing Director Gita Gopinath at 03.00 pm. Before that meeting, he met Sitharaman for lunch.<h3>Sitharaman steps in before crucial meeting</h3>Sabry said he told Sitharaman that his discussions with IMF officials had not gone well. He said she then assured him that she would speak to Georgieva before his meeting.&nbsp;“In between this meeting, something happened. I had lunch with Nirmala Sitharaman. She asked me, Minister, how did the meeting go? I said, not that great. I said they were kind of reluctant and had a lot of issues. She said Don’t worry, I will meet Kristalina Georgieva before you. I will put a word,” he said.Sabry said the atmosphere changed significantly when he later met the IMF leadership.&nbsp;“When I went for the meeting with the IMF Managing Director, which is one of the most crucial meetings for me, the tone, the approach, the environment, everything had changed. Kristalina Georgieva told me that she had just finished a meeting with Nirmala Sitharaman, and 70-80% of the meeting was not about India, but Sri Lanka, he said.&nbsp;Sabry said the episode became an important foundation for Sri Lanka’s economic recovery.

Former Sri Lankan Finance Minister Ali Sabry revealed how Nirmala Sitharaman's intervention during crucial IMF talks helped turn the tide in Sri Lanka's favour and laid the foundation for its economic recovery.

Former Sri Lankan Finance Minister Ali Sabry has credited Indian Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman with turning the tide in Colombo’s favour during a crucial meeting with International Monetary Fund (IMF) representatives over Sri Lanka’s economic crisis. Speaking about the negotiations that led to Sri Lanka’s IMF programme, Sabry said India’s support went beyond diplomatic goodwill. Sri Lanka was facing severe economic problems at the time, including foreign exchange shortages, high inflation and shortages of fuel and medicines. India was among the first countries to provide emergency financial support to Sri Lanka during the 2022 crisis. It extended billions of dollars in credit lines to help the country meet essential import needs. Sabry said India’s early support sent a strong message to the international community about Colombo’s ability to pursue an economic recovery.

Former Sri Lankan Finance Minister Ali Sabry revealed how Nirmala Sitharaman's intervention during crucial IMF talks helped turn the tide in Sri Lanka's favour and laid the foundation for its economic recovery.

Watch | How India changed Sri Lanka's IMF story: Former FM reveals Sitharaman's behind the scenes role

Thieves staged a superfast raid at the historic Treasure of Villena museum in Spain, stealing most of its collection in a high-profile heist that lasted just four minutes. The stolen gold alone is worth around 1.7 million euros ($2 million). The collection also includes several other historical artefacts whose value cannot be determined.&nbsp;The raid targeted more than 50 objects, mainly made of gold, at the museum in the Spanish town of Villena.&nbsp;"The alarm at the Villena Museum went off around 5:20 am (0320 GMT)," a town council spokesman said. He added that the thieves had left the building by 5:24 am.&nbsp;"They've taken most of the treasure," Villena mayor Fulgencio Cerdan told journalists, as reported by AFP.&nbsp;"We are absolutely devastated; I'm even trembling. The truth is that for those of us from Villena, this destroys us. It's part of our heritage, of our wealth," Cerdan said.<h3>What was inside the treasure?</h3>The Treasure of Villena collection contains 29 bracelets, 11 bowls, three bottles and several other pieces. The items are displayed at a small museum in the town in Alicante province.&nbsp;Most of the artefacts are made of gold, while others contain silver, iron and amber. They date back to around 1,000 BC.&nbsp;Archaeologist Jose Maria Soler discovered the treasure in 1963. He found it inside a vessel buried in a dried-out riverbed in Villena.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/absolute-pain-sadhguru-breaks-down-as-80-pilgrims-remain-missing-after-nepal-floods-1787830539827">‘We are in absolute pain’: Sadhguru breaks down as 80 pilgrims remain missing after Nepal floods | Video</a><h3>How the thieves entered the museum</h3>The thieves arrived in several vehicles and apparently entered the museum "through a window", according to Manuel Pineda, the Spanish government's deputy representative in Alicante.&nbsp;"All security systems were activated," the Villena spokesman said, insisting there had been "no failure" by the museum.&nbsp;An alarm also went off at the city's sports centre shortly before the robbery. Authorities were investigating whether the alarm was deliberately triggered as a diversion, the spokesperson said.<h3>Europe sees more museum raids</h3>The Villena heist comes after a series of high-profile thefts from cultural institutions across Europe.Last October, thieves broke into the Louvre museum in Paris in broad daylight. They escaped in less than eight minutes with jewellery worth $102 million.&nbsp;Four works "of extraordinary value" by Renaissance artist Antonello da Messina were also stolen from a museum in Sicily, Italy's culture ministry said on Sunday.&nbsp;Two days earlier, Italian police said they had recovered paintings by Renoir, Cezanne and Matisse worth more than $10.4 million. Thieves had stolen the paintings from the Magnani-Rocca Foundation museum near Parma.

Thieves carried out a superfast four-minute raid at Spain’s Treasure of Villena museum, stealing most of the ancient collection, including gold worth around 1.7 million euros ($2 million).

Thieves staged a superfast raid at the historic Treasure of Villena museum in Spain, stealing most of its collection in a high-profile heist that lasted just four minutes. The stolen gold alone is worth around 1.7 million euros ($2 million). The collection also includes several other historical artefacts whose value cannot be determined. The raid targeted more than 50 objects, mainly made of gold, at the museum in the Spanish town of Villena. "The alarm at the Villena Museum went off around 5:20 am (0320 GMT)," a town council spokesman said. He added that the thieves had left the building by 5:24 am. "They've taken most of the treasure," Villena mayor Fulgencio Cerdan told journalists, as reported by AFP. "We are absolutely devastated; I'm even trembling. The truth is that for those of us from Villena, this destroys us. It's part of our heritage, of our wealth," Cerdan said. What was inside the treasure? The Treasure of Villena collection contains 29 bracelets, 11 bowls, three bottles and several other pieces. The items are displayed at a small museum in the town in Alicante province. Most of the artefacts are made of gold, while others contain silver, iron and amber. They date back to around 1,000 BC. Archaeologist Jose Maria Soler discovered the treasure in 1963. He found it inside a vessel buried in a dried-out riverbed in Villena. Also Read: ‘We are in absolute pain’: Sadhguru breaks down as 80 pilgrims remain missing after Nepal floods | Video How the thieves entered the museum The thieves arrived in several vehicles and apparently entered the museum "through a window", according to Manuel Pineda, the Spanish government's deputy representative in Alicante. "All security systems were activated," the Villena spokesman said, insisting there had been "no failure" by the museum. An alarm also went off at the city's sports centre shortly before the robbery. Authorities were investigating whether the alarm was deliberately triggered as a diversion, the spokesperson said. Europe sees more museum raids The Villena heist comes after a series of high-profile thefts from cultural institutions across Europe. Last October, thieves broke into the Louvre museum in Paris in broad daylight. They escaped in less than eight minutes with jewellery worth $102 million. Four works "of extraordinary value" by Renaissance artist Antonello da Messina were also stolen from a museum in Sicily, Italy's culture ministry said on Sunday. Two days earlier, Italian police said they had recovered paintings by Renoir, Cezanne and Matisse worth more than $10.4 million. Thieves had stolen the paintings from the Magnani-Rocca Foundation museum near Parma.

Thieves carried out a superfast four-minute raid at Spain’s Treasure of Villena museum, stealing most of the ancient collection, including gold worth around 1.7 million euros ($2 million).

4 minutes, priceless treasure gone: Thieves pull off superfast Bronze Age gold heist in Spain

Working alongside surgical skill, Orthopaedic surgery has entered a new era with the advancement of technology, making the complex process simpler and more precise. The technology has transformed orthopaedic surgery by delivering sub-millimetre precision, highly personalised care, and faster recovery times for patients. &nbsp; Key technologies that are shaping the orthopaedic field are Robotic-assisted systems, 3D printing, augmented reality (AR) and artificial intelligence (AI). In the case of Robotic-assisted surgery, the Mako Robotic Arm allows surgeons to execute joint replacements with exact bone cuts, matching pre-planned 3D models. Navigation systems in the field also provide real-time feedback during procedures, reducing guesswork in implant alignment and positioning. On the other hand, 3D printing has also transformed pre-surgical planning, allowing custom implants and patient-specific guides tailored to individual bone structures. Meanwhile, artificial intelligence is increasingly used to analyse imaging data, predict surgical outcomes, and personalise recovery protocols based on patient-specific factors.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/400-year-old-vampire-grave-in-poland-reveals-rare-genetic-lineage-1787729488056">400-year-old 'vampire' grave in Poland reveals non-existent genetic lineage</a><h3>Technology allows precision surgery</h3>With the rise in technology over the last decade, Dr Sujit Narayan, MBBS, D. Ortho, FIMS, AO (Trauma), Sr. Consultant Orthopaedics, Joint Replacement and Spine Surgeon, Yatharth Super Speciality Hospitals, stated that with the advent of time, Orthopaedic surgery has evolved tremendously, with technology being one of the biggest drivers of the change. Irrespective of arthritis treatments, sports injuries, or complex joint conditions, the technological tools allow doctors to plan and perform procedures with a level of precision that was not possible before. "Technologies such as robotic-assisted surgery, advanced imaging, and digital surgical planning help us better understand each patient's anatomy and tailor treatment accordingly. While the surgeon's experience remains central to achieving good outcomes, these innovations provide valuable support in the operating room. Ultimately, the goal is simple - to help patients recover faster, regain function, and return to the activities that matter most to them with greater confidence," Dr Narayan said. Echoing similar points over the surgery, Dr Amit Sharma, MS Orthopaedics, Principal Director and Head, Speciality Unit of Joint Replacement, Arthroscopy and Sports Medicine, Yashoda Kaushambi and Yashoda Medicity, Ghaziabad, said, "One of the most exciting developments in orthopaedics has been the growing role of technology in helping us deliver more precise and personalised care. In orthopaedics, innovations such as robotic-assisted replacement surgeries and planning allow us to map procedures in detail before entering the operating room and execute them with enhanced accuracy. This is particularly valuable in joint replacement surgery, where precision can play an important role in restoring natural movement and long-term function. As these technologies continue to advance, they are helping us improve the surgical experience while keeping the focus on achieving the best possible outcomes for our patients and helping them get back to living active, pain-free lives."&nbsp;

Orthopaedic surgery has evolved tremendously, with technology being one of the biggest drivers of the change. Irrespective of arthritis treatments, sports injuries, or complex joint conditions, technological tools allow doctors to plan and perform procedures with a level of precision.

Working alongside surgical skill, Orthopaedic surgery has entered a new era with the advancement of technology, making the complex process simpler and more precise. The technology has transformed orthopaedic surgery by delivering sub-millimetre precision, highly personalised care, and faster recovery times for patients. Key technologies that are shaping the orthopaedic field are Robotic-assisted systems, 3D printing, augmented reality (AR) and artificial intelligence (AI). In the case of Robotic-assisted surgery, the Mako Robotic Arm allows surgeons to execute joint replacements with exact bone cuts, matching pre-planned 3D models. Navigation systems in the field also provide real-time feedback during procedures, reducing guesswork in implant alignment and positioning. On the other hand, 3D printing has also transformed pre-surgical planning, allowing custom implants and patient-specific guides tailored to individual bone structures. Meanwhile, artificial intelligence is increasingly used to analyse imaging data, predict surgical outcomes, and personalise recovery protocols based on patient-specific factors. Also read: 400-year-old 'vampire' grave in Poland reveals non-existent genetic lineage Technology allows precision surgery With the rise in technology over the last decade, Dr Sujit Narayan, MBBS, D. Ortho, FIMS, AO (Trauma), Sr. Consultant Orthopaedics, Joint Replacement and Spine Surgeon, Yatharth Super Speciality Hospitals, stated that with the advent of time, Orthopaedic surgery has evolved tremendously, with technology being one of the biggest drivers of the change. Irrespective of arthritis treatments, sports injuries, or complex joint conditions, the technological tools allow doctors to plan and perform procedures with a level of precision that was not possible before. "Technologies such as robotic-assisted surgery, advanced imaging, and digital surgical planning help us better understand each patient's anatomy and tailor treatment accordingly. While the surgeon's experience remains central to achieving good outcomes, these innovations provide valuable support in the operating room. Ultimately, the goal is simple - to help patients recover faster, regain function, and return to the activities that matter most to them with greater confidence," Dr Narayan said. Echoing similar points over the surgery, Dr Amit Sharma, MS Orthopaedics, Principal Director and Head, Speciality Unit of Joint Replacement, Arthroscopy and Sports Medicine, Yashoda Kaushambi and Yashoda Medicity, Ghaziabad, said, "One of the most exciting developments in orthopaedics has been the growing role of technology in helping us deliver more precise and personalised care. In orthopaedics, innovations such as robotic-assisted replacement surgeries and planning allow us to map procedures in detail before entering the operating room and execute them with enhanced accuracy. This is particularly valuable in joint replacement surgery, where precision can play an important role in restoring natural movement and long-term function. As these technologies continue to advance, they are helping us improve the surgical experience while keeping the focus on achieving the best possible outcomes for our patients and helping them get back to living active, pain-free lives."

Orthopaedic surgery has evolved tremendously, with technology being one of the biggest drivers of the change. Irrespective of arthritis treatments, sports injuries, or complex joint conditions, technological tools allow doctors to plan and perform procedures with a level of precision.

Precision in motion: How technology is shaping orthopaedic surgery?

India has airlifted 47.5 tonnes of Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) materials to flood-ravaged neighbouring country, Nepal, to support ongoing rescue and relief operations. The MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said two military transport aircraft carrying humanitarian assistance had been sent to Kathmandu in two tranches."The assistance that we have provided: two aircraft with humanitarian assistance have been sent to Kathmandu," Jaiswal said. He added that the two air consignments included eight tonnes of medicines and one tonne of food items.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/nepal-floods-36-west-bengal-pilgrims-missing-as-state-centre-launch-rescue-coordination-1787817856319">Nepal floods: 36 West Bengal pilgrims missing as India launches rescue op</a><h2>What India sent to Nepal</h2><ul><li>Temporary shelters and tents: Emergency shelters for people displaced by the floods.</li><li>Blankets: Warm bedding for affected and displaced people.</li><li>Hygiene kits: Essential sanitation and personal cleaning supplies.</li><li>Solar lamps: Portable lighting for areas facing power outages.</li><li>Medicines and medical supplies: Essential medicines and emergency healthcare materials.</li><li>Food packets: Ready-to-eat food supplies for affected populations.</li></ul>Total relief aid: 47.5 tonnes, sent across two tranches by military transport aircraft.The assistance comes as Nepal continues to deal with the impact of devastating flash floods along its border with the Tibet region. The floods have killed more than 170 people and caused widespread destruction.<h2>‘The people of India stand in solidarity’</h2>The first tranche of relief material was dispatched hours after Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to his Nepalese counterpart Balendra Shah and assured him of India's support.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/nepal-flash-floods-kailash-mansarovar-yatra-affected-close-to-400-pilgrims-out-of-contact-1787758615744">Nepal flash floods: Kailash Mansarovar yatra affected, close to 400 pilgrims out of contact</a>"The people of India stand in solidarity with their sisters and brothers in Nepal at this difficult time," Modi said in a social media post following the conversation."India is ready to provide all possible humanitarian assistance to Nepal. Our teams are coordinating closely on rescue and relief efforts," he added.The latest assistance is aimed at helping Nepal's rescue and relief agencies respond to the crisis and provide essential supplies to people affected by the floods.

India airlifted 47.5 tonnes of HADR relief material—including medicines, food, tents, blankets, and solar lamps—across two tranches to flood-ravaged Nepal following devastating flash floods that killed over 170 people.

India has airlifted 47.5 tonnes of Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) materials to flood-ravaged neighbouring country, Nepal, to support ongoing rescue and relief operations. The MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said two military transport aircraft carrying humanitarian assistance had been sent to Kathmandu in two tranches. "The assistance that we have provided: two aircraft with humanitarian assistance have been sent to Kathmandu," Jaiswal said. He added that the two air consignments included eight tonnes of medicines and one tonne of food items. Also read: Nepal floods: 36 West Bengal pilgrims missing as India launches rescue op What India sent to Nepal Temporary shelters and tents: Emergency shelters for people displaced by the floods. Blankets: Warm bedding for affected and displaced people. Hygiene kits: Essential sanitation and personal cleaning supplies. Solar lamps: Portable lighting for areas facing power outages. Medicines and medical supplies: Essential medicines and emergency healthcare materials. Food packets: Ready-to-eat food supplies for affected populations. Total relief aid: 47.5 tonnes, sent across two tranches by military transport aircraft. The assistance comes as Nepal continues to deal with the impact of devastating flash floods along its border with the Tibet region. The floods have killed more than 170 people and caused widespread destruction. ‘The people of India stand in solidarity’ The first tranche of relief material was dispatched hours after Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to his Nepalese counterpart Balendra Shah and assured him of India's support. Also read: Nepal flash floods: Kailash Mansarovar yatra affected, close to 400 pilgrims out of contact "The people of India stand in solidarity with their sisters and brothers in Nepal at this difficult time," Modi said in a social media post following the conversation. "India is ready to provide all possible humanitarian assistance to Nepal. Our teams are coordinating closely on rescue and relief efforts," he added. The latest assistance is aimed at helping Nepal's rescue and relief agencies respond to the crisis and provide essential supplies to people affected by the floods.

India airlifted 47.5 tonnes of HADR relief material—including medicines, food, tents, blankets, and solar lamps—across two tranches to flood-ravaged Nepal following devastating flash floods that killed over 170 people.

Blankets, sleeping bags, solar lamps and more: List of things India sent to Nepal in 47.5 tonnes of humanitarian aid

Researchers confirmed on Wednesday (August 26) that endangered little brown bats can adapt to cancer-causing cell damage in a unique pattern that could inform efforts to curb the disease that claims the lives of more than 600,000 Americans annually. The findings came after an experiment using tissue samples from the creatures disclosed that the interaction led to the genes that promoted cell death instead of DNA repair when the bats’ cells were tested against lethal chemicals. “We found the literal opposite of what we expected if you treat the bats with a lethal dose of this chemical,” biologist Juan Manuel “Manny” Vazquez, an assistant professor at Penn State University and co-lead author of the related study, confirmed in a news release from the University of California, Berkeley. “The longest-lived bat in North America decides ‘I can't save this ship’ and immediately switches gears to prioritise killing off the cells that are damaged. The elephant, another cancer-resistant species that is long-lived, has the exact same strategy: if you can't save the cell, kill the cell,” he continued. The University of Vermont confirmed that analysis of the bats’ DNA revealed another secret to their longevity and good immune function.<h3>Multiple copies of immune gene</h3>The scientists have found that the animals had multiple copies of an immune gene discovered in every mammal, known as “protein kinase r,” or PRK. Generally, Mammals have one copy of the gene, suggesting to Vazquez it could be responsible for protective effects. The study’s authors also assert that the findings could be applied to human research on longevity and disease. “We can look at these bats and try to understand how, in the same way you can improve your immune system to fight off viruses, maybe you can improve your immune system so it doesn't decline in old age,” Vazquez said. “Or maybe bats can help us find ways to fight off tumours so our immune system doesn’t get tired, and that can also help us deal with other stresses of life and not exhaust our immunity.”&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/whose-buffalo-is-it-bihar-police-turn-to-dna-test-to-solve-ownership-row-1787800004479">The great buffalo mystery: Bihar Police seek DNA proof to find its real owner</a> Elise Lauterbur, an assistant professor of evolutionary biology at the University of Vermont and co-lead author of the study, explained, "Pathogen adaptation, longevity and cancer resistance- they are fundamentally linked.” That said, applying these adaptations to treat human disease remains a distant prospect. So why study bats in the first place? For their size, they're remarkably long-lived among mammals, with some species surviving for decades. (Little brown bats face endangerment mainly due to white-nose syndrome, a lethal fungal disease.) Bats also lead highly active lives, flying nightly to hunt insects. Researchers suggest this level of fitness may contribute to stronger immune function and longer lifespan — a pattern also seen in humans. “Bats have evolved this incredible fitness capacity, this incredible ability to deal with disease and this incredible ability to be able to prevent cancer,” Vazquez said. “That means that, by understanding how bats have evolved to do all these things that other mammals haven't, we can find completely new and unexpected ways of dealing with the normal things that cause human diseases.”

The scientists have found that the animals had multiple copies of an immune gene discovered in every mammal, known as “protein kinase r,” or PRK. Generally, Mammals have one copy of the gene, which could be responsible for protective effects. 

Researchers confirmed on Wednesday (August 26) that endangered little brown bats can adapt to cancer-causing cell damage in a unique pattern that could inform efforts to curb the disease that claims the lives of more than 600,000 Americans annually. The findings came after an experiment using tissue samples from the creatures disclosed that the interaction led to the genes that promoted cell death instead of DNA repair when the bats’ cells were tested against lethal chemicals. “We found the literal opposite of what we expected if you treat the bats with a lethal dose of this chemical,” biologist Juan Manuel “Manny” Vazquez, an assistant professor at Penn State University and co-lead author of the related study, confirmed in a news release from the University of California, Berkeley. “The longest-lived bat in North America decides ‘I can't save this ship’ and immediately switches gears to prioritise killing off the cells that are damaged. The elephant, another cancer-resistant species that is long-lived, has the exact same strategy: if you can't save the cell, kill the cell,” he continued. The University of Vermont confirmed that analysis of the bats’ DNA revealed another secret to their longevity and good immune function. Multiple copies of immune gene The scientists have found that the animals had multiple copies of an immune gene discovered in every mammal, known as “protein kinase r,” or PRK. Generally, Mammals have one copy of the gene, suggesting to Vazquez it could be responsible for protective effects. The study’s authors also assert that the findings could be applied to human research on longevity and disease. “We can look at these bats and try to understand how, in the same way you can improve your immune system to fight off viruses, maybe you can improve your immune system so it doesn't decline in old age,” Vazquez said. “Or maybe bats can help us find ways to fight off tumours so our immune system doesn’t get tired, and that can also help us deal with other stresses of life and not exhaust our immunity.” Also read: The great buffalo mystery: Bihar Police seek DNA proof to find its real owner Elise Lauterbur, an assistant professor of evolutionary biology at the University of Vermont and co-lead author of the study, explained, "Pathogen adaptation, longevity and cancer resistance- they are fundamentally linked.” That said, applying these adaptations to treat human disease remains a distant prospect. So why study bats in the first place? For their size, they're remarkably long-lived among mammals, with some species surviving for decades. (Little brown bats face endangerment mainly due to white-nose syndrome, a lethal fungal disease.) Bats also lead highly active lives, flying nightly to hunt insects. Researchers suggest this level of fitness may contribute to stronger immune function and longer lifespan — a pattern also seen in humans. “Bats have evolved this incredible fitness capacity, this incredible ability to deal with disease and this incredible ability to be able to prevent cancer,” Vazquez said. “That means that, by understanding how bats have evolved to do all these things that other mammals haven't, we can find completely new and unexpected ways of dealing with the normal things that cause human diseases.”

The scientists have found that the animals had multiple copies of an immune gene discovered in every mammal, known as “protein kinase r,” or PRK. Generally, Mammals have one copy of the gene, which could be responsible for protective effects.&nbsp;

Could brown bats hold the key to fighting human cancer? Scientists reveal shocking truth

An Israeli far-right lawmaker has come under fire after using a sledgehammer to damage a Palestinian memorial in the West Bank, an incident that the Israeli military said was carried out without authorisation but that residents fear could trigger more violence.MK Zvi Sukkot, a member of the ultranationalist Religious Zionist Party, travelled to the village of Madama, south of Nablus, on Tuesday (Aug 25) as part of what had been presented as a tour of West Bank villages.<h2>Sukkot shares footage of the destruction of the memorial</h2>Footage shared by Sukkot showed him at the site of a memorial honouring Palestinians killed in past conflicts. He said the monument "glorified terrorism" and argued that it should be removed."Every child who sees every day a giant monument that glorifies murderers of Jews will dream of being a terrorist," Sukkot wrote on X.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">כל ילד שרואה מדי יום אנדרטת ענק שמפארת רוצחי יהודים, יחלום להיות מחבל. יחד עם אנשי הקול היהודי פניתי לצה&quot;ל מספר פעמים בשבועות האחרונים בבקשה שיסירו את אנדרטאות הטרור בכל המרחב כחלק מהמלחמה בטרור, ואני מקווה מאוד שזה יקרה בהקדם האפשרי. בינתיים, טעימה קטנה מהבוקר בכפר מדמא… <a href="https://t.co/HPIMzrP3Pa">pic.twitter.com/HPIMzrP3Pa</a>&mdash; צבי סוכות (@tzvisuccot) <a href="https://x.com/tzvisuccot/status/2092141424900813230?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 25, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-mojtaba-khamenei-alive-dead-iran-war-putting-on-show-mystery-1787800507116">'If he is dead, they're putting on a pretty good show': Trump casts fresh doubt over Mojtaba Khamenei's fate</a><h2>IDF says soldiers were misled</h2>Israeli forces were present during the incident, having been assigned to provide security for Sukkot and his aides.The IDF said Sukkot had requested protection for a "memorial tour" but then acted outside the agreed plan. "Contrary to the coordination, the participants acted deceitfully and manipulatively, without authority and in complete violation of the approved framework," the military said.According to the IDF, troops contacted their commanders after the demolition began and were instructed to intervene and remove the group from the village.The footage circulating online, however, did not show soldiers stepping in as the memorial was being damaged. Watch the video here:

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">תיעוד: חבר הכנסת צבי סוכות ניפץ אנדרטה למחבל בכפר מדאמא שליד שכם<a href="https://x.com/HGoldich?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@HGoldich</a> <a href="https://x.com/glick_sh?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@glick_sh</a> צילום: סעיף 27א <a href="https://t.co/CktNKehOG2">pic.twitter.com/CktNKehOG2</a>&mdash; כאן חדשות (@kann_news) <a href="https://x.com/kann_news/status/2092137153601896542?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 25, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The military said the conduct was a serious misuse of the protection provided to the lawmakers and his associates.<h2>Village fears more violence</h2>Rami Nassar, head of the Madama village council, said the incident could encourage further attacks by settlers and increase pressure on Palestinian residents. "When an official Israeli politician acts like this, what can we expect from other radical settlers?" Nassar told The Jerusalem Post.He said the incident could lead to more raids, harassment, and damage to property. "It's worrying because it could fuel even more violent acts against Palestinians," Nassar said.Nassar also rejected Sukkot's claim about the effect of the memorial on children, asking why, if the monument had such an impact, there was no confrontation with children from the village when it was damaged.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/militarily-closed-iran-says-temporary-oman-route-does-not-mean-strait-of-hormuz-is-reopening-1787707227708">'Militarily closed': Iran says Oman route does not mean Strait of Hormuz is reopening</a><h2>Israeli politicians condemn Sukkot</h2>The episode has also sparked criticism within Israel. Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar said Sukkot "is not the sovereign in the territories of Judea and Samaria" and argued that decisions there must be taken by the state in coordination with security authorities.Opposition politician Yair Golan called for Sukkot's arrest in a post that was later deleted after Sukkot threatened legal action.Democratic Party lawmaker Gilad Kariv also criticised the military's role, questioning why forces were available to escort Sukkot while previous requests for military protection for other visits had reportedly been denied.The incident has added to already heightened tensions in the West Bank, with Palestinian officials warning that acts by Israeli political figures and settlers could further inflame the situation.

An Israeli far-right lawmaker has used a sledgehammer to damage a Palestinian memorial in the West Bank, claiming it glorified terrorism. The Israeli military says the act was unauthorised, while Palestinian residents fear it could fuel further violence. Video of the incident is going viral.

An Israeli far-right lawmaker has come under fire after using a sledgehammer to damage a Palestinian memorial in the West Bank, an incident that the Israeli military said was carried out without authorisation but that residents fear could trigger more violence. MK Zvi Sukkot, a member of the ultranationalist Religious Zionist Party, travelled to the village of Madama, south of Nablus, on Tuesday (Aug 25) as part of what had been presented as a tour of West Bank villages. Sukkot shares footage of the destruction of the memorial Footage shared by Sukkot showed him at the site of a memorial honouring Palestinians killed in past conflicts. He said the monument "glorified terrorism" and argued that it should be removed. "Every child who sees every day a giant monument that glorifies murderers of Jews will dream of being a terrorist," Sukkot wrote on X.

An Israeli far-right lawmaker has used a sledgehammer to damage a Palestinian memorial in the West Bank, claiming it glorified terrorism. The Israeli military says the act was unauthorised, while Palestinian residents fear it could fuel further violence. Video of the incident is going viral.

'Glorifies terrorism': Israeli far-right MP Zvi Sukkot smashes Palestinian memorial with sledgehammer | WATCH

A bizarre case has left police in Gaya dealing with an unusual bovine ownership dispute. Inspector General (IG) of Gaya Police Vikas Vaibhav has ordered a DNA test of a buffalo to help resolve ownership issue between two villagers. The DM directed Gaya (Rural) SP Divyanjali Jaiswal to conduct a detailed inquiry into the matter. The dispute is between two villagers Suraj Yadav of Seutar village and Prakash Manjhi of Nauranga village. According to reports, Suraj Yadav initially filed a cattle missing complaint at the Atri police station. He later tracked the animal down to Manjhi's house.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/high-alert-in-neighbouring-states-of-up-and-bihar-after-devastating-flash-floods-in-nepal-1787747307583">High alert in neighbouring states of UP and Bihar after devastating flash floods</a>&nbsp;According to police officers, buffalo's DNA test will help establish the genuine ownership by matching its DNA with its mother, currently being reared at someone else’s home,” Vaibhav told TOI. Police officials said the proposed DNA comparison is possible because the buffalo’s mother is alive and is currently being kept at another villager’s house. The DNA samples of the two animals will be compared as part of the investigation to help establish the claim of ownership, they said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/short-videos/6-missing-after-boat-carrying-workers-capsizes-in-bihar-s-naugachia-1787744444904">6 missing after boat carrying workers capsizes in Bihar's Naugachia</a>&nbsp;After the buffalo was found in Manjhi's house, Yadav forcefully attempted to take it back, prompting Manjhi to register a complaint. Station House Officer Ajay Kumar summoned Yadav with the buffalo to the Atri police station, where the animal was kept for two days. Soon, Yadav’s supporters, gathered near the policce station demanding that the animal be handed over to him. Now, Manjhi filed a complaint against Yadav under the Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act.&nbsp;<h2>Local politician enter the scene</h2>The dispute escalated after local political leaders entered the scene. Opposition Rashtriya Janata Dal leader and former Atri MLA Ajay Kumar Yadav alias Ranjit Yadav approached the zonal IG and submitted a formal request for an impartial probe into the matter. “The manner in which a case was registered against Suraj Yadav is completely unjustifiable and needs proper inquiry into the role of the local police,” the RJD leader said. The Hindustani Awam Morcha (Secular), an ally of the ruling National Democratic Alliance in Bihar, too got involved in the matter, with party’s national spokesperson Shyam Sundar Manjhi saying that the senior officer has assured a thorough probe into the matter. “We all should wait for the police investigation to be completed,” he said.&nbsp;

A bizarre buffalo ownership dispute in Bihar's Gaya has taken a scientific turn, with police ordering a DNA test to determine who owns the animal. The test will compare the buffalo's DNA with its alleged mother as two villagers battle over ownership.

A bizarre case has left police in Gaya dealing with an unusual bovine ownership dispute. Inspector General (IG) of Gaya Police Vikas Vaibhav has ordered a DNA test of a buffalo to help resolve ownership issue between two villagers. The DM directed Gaya (Rural) SP Divyanjali Jaiswal to conduct a detailed inquiry into the matter. The dispute is between two villagers Suraj Yadav of Seutar village and Prakash Manjhi of Nauranga village. According to reports, Suraj Yadav initially filed a cattle missing complaint at the Atri police station. He later tracked the animal down to Manjhi's house. Also Read: High alert in neighbouring states of UP and Bihar after devastating flash floods According to police officers, buffalo's DNA test will help establish the genuine ownership by matching its DNA with its mother, currently being reared at someone else’s home,” Vaibhav told TOI. Police officials said the proposed DNA comparison is possible because the buffalo’s mother is alive and is currently being kept at another villager’s house. The DNA samples of the two animals will be compared as part of the investigation to help establish the claim of ownership, they said. Also Read: 6 missing after boat carrying workers capsizes in Bihar's Naugachia After the buffalo was found in Manjhi's house, Yadav forcefully attempted to take it back, prompting Manjhi to register a complaint. Station House Officer Ajay Kumar summoned Yadav with the buffalo to the Atri police station, where the animal was kept for two days. Soon, Yadav’s supporters, gathered near the policce station demanding that the animal be handed over to him. Now, Manjhi filed a complaint against Yadav under the Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act. Local politician enter the scene The dispute escalated after local political leaders entered the scene. Opposition Rashtriya Janata Dal leader and former Atri MLA Ajay Kumar Yadav alias Ranjit Yadav approached the zonal IG and submitted a formal request for an impartial probe into the matter. “The manner in which a case was registered against Suraj Yadav is completely unjustifiable and needs proper inquiry into the role of the local police,” the RJD leader said. The Hindustani Awam Morcha (Secular), an ally of the ruling National Democratic Alliance in Bihar, too got involved in the matter, with party’s national spokesperson Shyam Sundar Manjhi saying that the senior officer has assured a thorough probe into the matter. “We all should wait for the police investigation to be completed,” he said.

A bizarre buffalo ownership dispute in Bihar's Gaya has taken a scientific turn, with police ordering a DNA test to determine who owns the animal. The test will compare the buffalo's DNA with its alleged mother as two villagers battle over ownership.

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