<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidSi5v5fFfDrHQ" /><meta charset="utf-8" />Using an iron fist to cull dissent, an Iranian court on Monday upheld a two year prison sentence against a well-known female Iranian comedian who dared to criticise the archaic Islamic laws.&nbsp;</p>

<p>33-year-old Zeinab Mousavi, who goes by an online alias of “Empress of Kuzcoo” and has nearly&nbsp;half-a-million followers on Instagram was arrested&nbsp;in October last year from her home in Qoms.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After being arrested, Mousavi spent 25 days in solitary confinement before being let&nbsp;out on bail.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, in December, using an arbitrary judicial process, she was handed a two-year prison sentence according to the Iranian NGO Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Mousavi had been using her online platform to criticise the imposition of hijab on Muslim women in the Islamic Republic of Iran. Her online alias was the parody of an old villager who wears a hijab that only shows her nose.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It was a clever commentary on how women are supposed to look under the medieval rules imposed by highly misogynistic Islamic men.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-executes-2-more-men-detained-amid-nationwide-protests-550255"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Iran executes 2 more men detained amid nationwide protests</strong></a></p>

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<p>However, this is not the first instance where the Iranian regime has exposed itself for going to dire lengths to quash voices of reason.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Last month, Amir Mohammad Ahmadi and Astiyazh Haghighi - an Iranian couple in their 20s was sentenced to more than 10 years in prison after they posted a video of themselves dancing.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iranian-couple-dancing-in-the-streets-sentenced-to-over-10-years-in-prison-557849" target="_blank"><strong>Read more: Iranian couple dancing in the streets sentenced to over 10 years in prison</strong></a></p>

<p>As Haghighi was seen without a scarf or a hijab in the video, dancing alongside a male figure, alone at night in front of a prominent landmark, the authorities considered it an attempt to show rebellion against the strict Islamic laws of the country.</p>

<p>Ever since the death of a 22-year-old Kurdish woman named Mahsa Amini allegedly at the hands of Iran's morality police in September last year, the country has plunged into a sea of demonstrations.</p>

<p>The Iranian government has come down heavily upon the protesters and is now imprisoning and executing them with the judiciary firmly sitting in its corner.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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Using an iron fist to cull dissent, an Iranian court on Monday upheld a two year prison sentence against a well-known female Iranian comedian who dared to criticise the archaic Islamic laws.

Using an iron fist to cull dissent, an Iranian court on Monday upheld a two year prison sentence against a well-known female Iranian comedian who dared to criticise the archaic Islamic laws. 33-year-old Zeinab Mousavi, who goes by an online alias of “Empress of Kuzcoo” and has nearly half-a-million followers on Instagram was arrested in October last year from her home in Qoms. After being arrested, Mousavi spent 25 days in solitary confinement before being let out on bail. However, in December, using an arbitrary judicial process, she was handed a two-year prison sentence according to the Iranian NGO Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA). Mousavi had been using her online platform to criticise the imposition of hijab on Muslim women in the Islamic Republic of Iran. Her online alias was the parody of an old villager who wears a hijab that only shows her nose. It was a clever commentary on how women are supposed to look under the medieval rules imposed by highly misogynistic Islamic men. WATCH | Iran executes 2 more men detained amid nationwide protests × However, this is not the first instance where the Iranian regime has exposed itself for going to dire lengths to quash voices of reason. Last month, Amir Mohammad Ahmadi and Astiyazh Haghighi - an Iranian couple in their 20s was sentenced to more than 10 years in prison after they posted a video of themselves dancing. Read more: Iranian couple dancing in the streets sentenced to over 10 years in prison As Haghighi was seen without a scarf or a hijab in the video, dancing alongside a male figure, alone at night in front of a prominent landmark, the authorities considered it an attempt to show rebellion against the strict Islamic laws of the country. Ever since the death of a 22-year-old Kurdish woman named Mahsa Amini allegedly at the hands of Iran's morality police in September last year, the country has plunged into a sea of demonstrations. The Iranian government has come down heavily upon the protesters and is now imprisoning and executing them with the judiciary firmly sitting in its corner. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Iranian female comedian sentenced to two years in prison for criticising hijab imposition

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<p>British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak may announce a cabinet reshuffle, a little more than 72 hours after completing 100 days in office. The conservative leader is expected to break up the government's business department into three separate, independent ministries. Meanwhile, ousted&nbsp;Nadhim Zahawi's replacement could also be announced.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Unimpressed by the work of the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS), Sunak may separate it into a new energy department, with business and trade merged.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Similarly, the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport could also be balkanised into culture ad sport as standalone entities.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The 42-year-old Tory leader took charge of the government at a rocky time and has managed to steady the boat, albeit momentarily.</p>

<p>After the initial kerfuffle, Sunak is now looking to reaffirm his position and the cabinet reshuffle is an attempt to send such a message.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sunak freshening up his squad also comes in the backdrop of him firing Nadhim Zahawi as chairman of the Conservative Party last month.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-rishi-sunak-faces-a-rebellion-liz-truss-eyes-a-comeback-559379"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: Rishi Sunak faces a rebellion, Liz Truss eyes a comeback</strong></a></p>

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<p>After coming under heavy scrutiny from the party as well as opposition leaders alike, Sunak took the ruthless call of sacking him.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a letter announcing the decision, Sunak wrote it was “clear that there has been a serious breach of the Ministerial Code".</p>

<p>Moreover, a section of Sunak loyalists is of the view that he should change his earlier decision of appointing Dominic Raab as his deputy prime minister and justice secretary. Raab has increasingly been under the pump for the bullying allegations leveled against him.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/theres-a-concept-in-hinduism-rishi-sunak-felt-it-was-his-dharma-to-take-over-as-british-pm-558697" target="_blank"><strong>Read more: ‘There’s a concept in Hinduism...’: Rishi Sunak felt it was his ‘dharma’ to take over as British PM</strong></a></p>

<p>With Keir Starmer-led Labour Party making sizeable gains in most polls, Sunak has less than two years to turn the tide in favour of Tories. After a musical chair game for the post of prime minister, the British public's opinion of the Conservatives is at an all-time low.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak may announce a cabinet reshuffle, a little more than 72 hours after completing 100 days in office. The conservative leader is expected to break up the government's business department into three separate, independent ministries.

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak may announce a cabinet reshuffle, a little more than 72 hours after completing 100 days in office. The conservative leader is expected to break up the government's business department into three separate, independent ministries. Meanwhile, ousted Nadhim Zahawi's replacement could also be announced. Unimpressed by the work of the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS), Sunak may separate it into a new energy department, with business and trade merged. Similarly, the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport could also be balkanised into culture ad sport as standalone entities. The 42-year-old Tory leader took charge of the government at a rocky time and has managed to steady the boat, albeit momentarily. After the initial kerfuffle, Sunak is now looking to reaffirm his position and the cabinet reshuffle is an attempt to send such a message. Sunak freshening up his squad also comes in the backdrop of him firing Nadhim Zahawi as chairman of the Conservative Party last month. WATCH | Gravitas: Rishi Sunak faces a rebellion, Liz Truss eyes a comeback × After coming under heavy scrutiny from the party as well as opposition leaders alike, Sunak took the ruthless call of sacking him. In a letter announcing the decision, Sunak wrote it was “clear that there has been a serious breach of the Ministerial Code". Moreover, a section of Sunak loyalists is of the view that he should change his earlier decision of appointing Dominic Raab as his deputy prime minister and justice secretary. Raab has increasingly been under the pump for the bullying allegations leveled against him. Read more: ‘There’s a concept in Hinduism...’: Rishi Sunak felt it was his ‘dharma’ to take over as British PM With Keir Starmer-led Labour Party making sizeable gains in most polls, Sunak has less than two years to turn the tide in favour of Tories. After a musical chair game for the post of prime minister, the British public's opinion of the Conservatives is at an all-time low. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

UK PM Rishi Sunak may announce a mini cabinet reshuffle. Know why

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<p>Powerful, multiple earthquakes struck Turkey and Syria on Monday, causing destruction on an unprecedented scale. Over 4,300 casualties have been confirmed so far while thousands more are feared to be dead. The situation is grim and pictures and videos paint an even more dystopian picture.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The epicentre for the first quake measuring 7.8 on the Richter scale was near Nurdagi in Gaziantep province, the Syrian border. The tremor was so powerful that it flattened high-rise buildings across the two countries.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The situation turned&nbsp;pear-shaped later when an aftershock&nbsp;measuring 7.5 hit the region. An aftershock being nearly as powerful as the first one caused additional damage and left seismologists scratching their heads.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Going by the initial estimates, United Nations has predicted that the death toll could rise to more than 20,000.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">WATCH: A drone video released by Humanitarian Relief Foundation shows the extent of destruction in Hatay province in Turkey, which was rocked by a 7.8 magnitude earthquake <a href="https://t.co/r0525qBw9r">pic.twitter.com/r0525qBw9r</a></p>
— Reuters (@Reuters) <a href="https://twitter.com/Reuters/status/1622767097381101570?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 7, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Video from drone footage shows complete devastation in the town of Adana in Turkey. Several buildings have been completely leveled from the 7.8 earthquake.<br />
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There’s a possibility of over 10,000 deaths in Turkey and Syria <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Turkiye?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Turkiye</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Tsunami?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Tsunami</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Turkey?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Turkey</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/earthquake?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#earthquake</a> <a href="https://t.co/4FQJlVDard">pic.twitter.com/4FQJlVDard</a></p>
— Mälbec (@OfficialMalbec) <a href="https://twitter.com/OfficialMalbec/status/1622544321302999040?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 6, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/death-toll-in-turkiye-syria-earthquake-soars-to-4300-more-casualties-feared-559419" target="_blank"><strong>Read more: Death toll in Turkiye-Syria earthquake soars to 4,300, more casualties feared</strong></a></p>

<p>With a long rescue and rehabilitation process ahead, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan declared a seven-day national mourning on Monday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Due to the earthquakes that took place in our country on February 6, 2023, a national mourning period was declared for seven days. Our flag will be hoisted at half-mast until sunset on Sunday, February 12, 2023, in all our country and foreign representations," tweeted Erdogan.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="tr">6 Şubat 2023 tarihinde ülkemizde meydana gelen depremler sebebiyle yedi gün süreyle millî yas ilan edilmiştir. Bütün yurtta ve dış temsilciliklerimizde 12 Şubat 2023 Pazar günü güneşin batışına kadar bayrağımız yarıya çekilecektir. <a href="https://t.co/WsXvTpyr6y">pic.twitter.com/WsXvTpyr6y</a></p>
— Recep Tayyip Erdoğan (@RTErdogan) <a href="https://twitter.com/RTErdogan/status/1622650586607808512?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 6, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>In the aftermath of the earthquake, countries across the world have come together to help Turkey and Syria. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has pledged to send the country's National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) to aid in the rescue operation while US President Joe Biden said his country will provide all relief necessary.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


Powerful, multiple earthquakes struck Turkey and Syria on Monday, causing destruction on an unprecedented scale. Over 4,300 casualties have been confirmed so far while thousands more are feared to be dead.

Powerful, multiple earthquakes struck Turkey and Syria on Monday, causing destruction on an unprecedented scale. Over 4,300 casualties have been confirmed so far while thousands more are feared to be dead. The situation is grim and pictures and videos paint an even more dystopian picture. The epicentre for the first quake measuring 7.8 on the Richter scale was near Nurdagi in Gaziantep province, the Syrian border. The tremor was so powerful that it flattened high-rise buildings across the two countries. The situation turned pear-shaped later when an aftershock measuring 7.5 hit the region. An aftershock being nearly as powerful as the first one caused additional damage and left seismologists scratching their heads. Going by the initial estimates, United Nations has predicted that the death toll could rise to more than 20,000. WATCH: A drone video released by Humanitarian Relief Foundation shows the extent of destruction in Hatay province in Turkey, which was rocked by a 7.8 magnitude earthquake pic.twitter.com/r0525qBw9r — Reuters (@Reuters) February 7, 2023 × #BREAKING Video from drone footage shows complete devastation in the town of Adana in Turkey. Several buildings have been completely leveled from the 7.8 earthquake. There’s a possibility of over 10,000 deaths in Turkey and Syria #Turkiye #Tsunami #Turkey #earthquake pic.twitter.com/4FQJlVDard — Mälbec (@OfficialMalbec) February 6, 2023 × Read more: Death toll in Turkiye-Syria earthquake soars to 4,300, more casualties feared With a long rescue and rehabilitation process ahead, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan declared a seven-day national mourning on Monday. "Due to the earthquakes that took place in our country on February 6, 2023, a national mourning period was declared for seven days. Our flag will be hoisted at half-mast until sunset on Sunday, February 12, 2023, in all our country and foreign representations," tweeted Erdogan. 6 Şubat 2023 tarihinde ülkemizde meydana gelen depremler sebebiyle yedi gün süreyle millî yas ilan edilmiştir. Bütün yurtta ve dış temsilciliklerimizde 12 Şubat 2023 Pazar günü güneşin batışına kadar bayrağımız yarıya çekilecektir. pic.twitter.com/WsXvTpyr6y — Recep Tayyip Erdoğan (@RTErdogan) February 6, 2023 × In the aftermath of the earthquake, countries across the world have come together to help Turkey and Syria. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has pledged to send the country's National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) to aid in the rescue operation while US President Joe Biden said his country will provide all relief necessary. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

WATCH | Drone footage shows the devastating earthquake aftermath in Turkey

<p>A landslide in the South American country of Peru on Monday killed as many as 35 while several were left injured. Meanwhile, the devastating earthquake that hit Turkey and Syria on Monday has caused devastation on an unparalleled scale. Over 4,000 confirmed casualties have been reported so far while the UN fears over 20,000 could be dead.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Click on headlines to read more:</strong></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-eight-dead-five-missing-in-peru-landslides-559405"><strong>At least 35 dead, five missing in Peru landslides</strong></a></p>

<p>Strong rains in Peru caused a landslide that killed at least 35 people in the southern Arequipa area, according to national emergency services on Monday. Search and rescue operations are still going on, according to Peru's COEN national emergency centre.</p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/02/07/330567-untitled-design-2023-02-07t053323744.png?imwidth=1920" /></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/death-toll-in-turkiye-syria-earthquake-soars-to-4300-more-casualties-feared-559419"><strong>Death toll in Turkiye-Syria earthquake soars to 4,300, more casualties feared</strong></a></p>

<p>At least 4,300 people have been killed and thousands of buildings reduced to rubble after a devastating earthquake of 7.8-magnitude struck Turkiye and Syria, even as rescuers try to look for survivors. It is believed that the toll might increase further as the rescue operation proceeds.</p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/02/07/330573-syria.jpg?imwidth=1920" /></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/blanket-ban-not-suitable-pakistan-pm-shehbaz-sharif-orders-immediate-restoration-of-wikipedia-559403"><strong>'Blanket ban not suitable': Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif orders immediate restoration of Wikipedia</strong></a></p>

<p>Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Monday ordered the immediate restoration of the Wikipedia website that was banned by the country's telecom regulator last week citing failure to remove 'sacrilegious content'.</p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/02/07/330566-untitled-design-2023-02-07t040640655.png?imwidth=1920" /></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wagner-boss-shares-cockpit-video-challenges-ukraines-zelensky-to-aerial-duel-559401"><strong>Wagner boss shares cockpit video, challenges Ukraine's Zelensky to aerial duel</strong></a></p>

<p>Yevgeny Prigozhin, who is the head of Russia's mercenary group Wagner, claimed on Monday (February 6) that he was on a fighter jet that had bombed Bakhmut, which has become the epicentre of fighting in eastern Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/02/07/330565-yevgeny-prigozhin.png?imwidth=1920" /></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-former-president-pervez-musharrafs-mortal-remains-brought-to-karachi-559391"><strong>Pervez Musharraf’s mortal remains arrived in Karachi, last rites to be held today</strong></a></p>

<p>Mortal remains of former Pakistan President General Retd Pervez Musharraf were brought to Karachi, Pakistan, in a UAE jet. His last rites will be held on Tuesday, 7 February at 1:45 PM PKT in Karachi.&nbsp;The jet landed at 9:52 PM Pakistan Standard Time on 7 February.&nbsp;</p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/02/07/330559-untitled-design-2023-02-07t011552712.png?imwidth=1920" /></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israeli-army-conducts-raid-at-the-palestinian-city-559420"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Israeli army conducts raid at the Palestinian city</strong></a></p>

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A landslide in the South American country of Peru on Monday killed as many as 35 while several were left injured. Meanwhile, the devastating earthquake that hit Turkey and Syria on Monday has caused devastation on an unparalleled scale.

A landslide in the South American country of Peru on Monday killed as many as 35 while several were left injured. Meanwhile, the devastating earthquake that hit Turkey and Syria on Monday has caused devastation on an unparalleled scale. Over 4,000 confirmed casualties have been reported so far while the UN fears over 20,000 could be dead. Click on headlines to read more: At least 35 dead, five missing in Peru landslides Strong rains in Peru caused a landslide that killed at least 35 people in the southern Arequipa area, according to national emergency services on Monday. Search and rescue operations are still going on, according to Peru's COEN national emergency centre. Death toll in Turkiye-Syria earthquake soars to 4,300, more casualties feared At least 4,300 people have been killed and thousands of buildings reduced to rubble after a devastating earthquake of 7.8-magnitude struck Turkiye and Syria, even as rescuers try to look for survivors. It is believed that the toll might increase further as the rescue operation proceeds. 'Blanket ban not suitable': Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif orders immediate restoration of Wikipedia Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Monday ordered the immediate restoration of the Wikipedia website that was banned by the country's telecom regulator last week citing failure to remove 'sacrilegious content'. Wagner boss shares cockpit video, challenges Ukraine's Zelensky to aerial duel Yevgeny Prigozhin, who is the head of Russia's mercenary group Wagner, claimed on Monday (February 6) that he was on a fighter jet that had bombed Bakhmut, which has become the epicentre of fighting in eastern Ukraine. Pervez Musharraf’s mortal remains arrived in Karachi, last rites to be held today Mortal remains of former Pakistan President General Retd Pervez Musharraf were brought to Karachi, Pakistan, in a UAE jet. His last rites will be held on Tuesday, 7 February at 1:45 PM PKT in Karachi. The jet landed at 9:52 PM Pakistan Standard Time on 7 February. WATCH | Israeli army conducts raid at the Palestinian city ×

Morning news brief: 35 dead in Peru landslide, Turkiye quake casualty mounts and more

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<p>A man accused of stalking a woman for years and later murdering her has been sentenced to 40 years in prison by a South Korean court on Tuesday. Terming it a 'revenge killing', the court said the stalker was out and about to kill the girl.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"From the defendant's testimony, it appeared he was determined to murder the victim unless she agreed to settle," observed the Seoul District Court in the judgment.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Despite the victim's wish to cut ties, the defendant forced her to suffer stalking and committed a revenge crime... instead of reflecting on his misdeeds."</p>

<p>The case and its chilling details had sparked an outcry across Korea. Calls have been raised by the public to reform the legal fabric of the country which was responsible for the death of the victim.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-and-south-korea-hold-joint-military-drills-over-yellow-sea-558150"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;US and South Korea hold joint military drills over Yellow Sea</strong></a></p>

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<p>31-year-old Jeon Joo-hwan, a subway worker, for the better part of last two years stalked the victim and threatened her on 300 occasions after she repeatedly refused to date him.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Despite the victim's complaints, the police shrugged it off saying Joo-hwan was a 'low risk' individual. After multiple complaints, the police finally took cognisance, and in October 2019, Joo-hwan was fired from the job and arrested.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/south-koreas-famous-kimchi-pits-countrys-economy-against-china-heres-how-555859"><strong>Read more:&nbsp;South Korea's famous Kimchi pits country's economy against China. Here's how</strong></a></p>

<p>However, he was soon let out and later never imprisoned or given a restraining order. The victim was placed under police protection for a month before being left out on her own.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On September 14 last year, the day before Joo-hwan was scheduled to be sentenced for the offences, he went to the subway station the girl had been working.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He waited outside the toilet for over an hour, wearing gloves and a disposable shower cap. After the girl came, he followed her inside and stabbed her to death.&nbsp;</p>

<p>An anti-stalking law that was passed in the aftermath of the murder has been deemed too weak by the public. It currently carries a maximum three-year prison sentence. However, in light of the case, the justice ministry is looking to clock in the changes.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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A man accused of stalking a woman for years and later murdering her has been sentenced to 40 years in prison by a South Korean court on Tuesday. Terming it a 'revenge killing', the court said the stalker was out and about to kill the girl.

A man accused of stalking a woman for years and later murdering her has been sentenced to 40 years in prison by a South Korean court on Tuesday. Terming it a 'revenge killing', the court said the stalker was out and about to kill the girl. "From the defendant's testimony, it appeared he was determined to murder the victim unless she agreed to settle," observed the Seoul District Court in the judgment. "Despite the victim's wish to cut ties, the defendant forced her to suffer stalking and committed a revenge crime... instead of reflecting on his misdeeds." The case and its chilling details had sparked an outcry across Korea. Calls have been raised by the public to reform the legal fabric of the country which was responsible for the death of the victim. WATCH | US and South Korea hold joint military drills over Yellow Sea × 31-year-old Jeon Joo-hwan, a subway worker, for the better part of last two years stalked the victim and threatened her on 300 occasions after she repeatedly refused to date him. Despite the victim's complaints, the police shrugged it off saying Joo-hwan was a 'low risk' individual. After multiple complaints, the police finally took cognisance, and in October 2019, Joo-hwan was fired from the job and arrested. Read more: South Korea's famous Kimchi pits country's economy against China. Here's how However, he was soon let out and later never imprisoned or given a restraining order. The victim was placed under police protection for a month before being left out on her own. On September 14 last year, the day before Joo-hwan was scheduled to be sentenced for the offences, he went to the subway station the girl had been working. He waited outside the toilet for over an hour, wearing gloves and a disposable shower cap. After the girl came, he followed her inside and stabbed her to death. An anti-stalking law that was passed in the aftermath of the murder has been deemed too weak by the public. It currently carries a maximum three-year prison sentence. However, in light of the case, the justice ministry is looking to clock in the changes. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Man guilty of stalking and murdering a woman sentenced to 40 years in prison in S Korea

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<p>Rail services were shut down, schools disrupted and refinery deliveries halted as trade unions launched the&nbsp;third round of nationwide strikes against President Emmanuel Macron and his&nbsp;highly unpopular pension reform plan&nbsp;on Tuesday.</p>

<p>The strikes come a day after debates began in the parliament on the passing of the legislation. According to local reports, workers across multiple sectors walked out as unions persuaded them to take to the streets and send a strong message to the government.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-fineprint-french-pension-reforms-face-backlash-555281" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH | WION Fineprint: French pension reforms face backlash</strong></a></p>

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<p>Despite the resistance, the Macron government has remained steadfast that it will pass the legislation, having failed to do so on previous occasions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Labour Minister Olivier Dussopt on Monday said, "I know this reform is difficult but I know that undertaking it is showing the courage others have lacked."</p>

<p>Addressing the parliament last month, Dussopt also added that giving up on the legislation at this time 'would be giving up on getting the system back in balance'.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/french-government-refuses-to-back-down-on-pension-reform-555227" target="_blank"><strong>Read more: French government refuses to back down on pension reform</strong></a></p>

<p>The Macron government, through its proposed legislation, is attempting to&nbsp;raise&nbsp;the legal retirement age in the country to 64, from the current 62.</p>

<p>The government is of the view that extending the pension age will prevent the system from collapsing under the weight of deficits.</p>

<p>Notably, the workers in France tend to retire much earlier than their European Union (EU) counterparts. The direct repercussion is that the French exchequer has to foot a bigger pension bill than most countries in the bloc.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In January, taking a stern approach, Macron said he will get the reform bill passed in this year only.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“This year will indeed be that of a pension reform that aims to guarantee the equilibrium of our system in the years and decades to come,” he said in a televised address.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/macron-government-announces-pension-reforms-amid-strike-threat-by-trade-unions-551255" target="_blank"><strong>Read more: Macron government announces pension reforms amid strike threat by trade unions&nbsp;</strong></a></p>

<p>Since coming to power in 2017, fixing France's complicated pension has been one of the top agendas of the Macron administration.&nbsp;However, given the scale of demonstrations, the Macron administration may have to reel back in its aggressiveness.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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Rail services were shut down, schools disrupted and refinery deliveries halted as trade unions launched the third round of nationwide strikes against President Emmanuel Macron and his highly unpopular pension reform plan on Tuesday.

Rail services were shut down, schools disrupted and refinery deliveries halted as trade unions launched the third round of nationwide strikes against President Emmanuel Macron and his highly unpopular pension reform plan on Tuesday. The strikes come a day after debates began in the parliament on the passing of the legislation. According to local reports, workers across multiple sectors walked out as unions persuaded them to take to the streets and send a strong message to the government. WATCH | WION Fineprint: French pension reforms face backlash × Despite the resistance, the Macron government has remained steadfast that it will pass the legislation, having failed to do so on previous occasions. Labour Minister Olivier Dussopt on Monday said, "I know this reform is difficult but I know that undertaking it is showing the courage others have lacked." Addressing the parliament last month, Dussopt also added that giving up on the legislation at this time 'would be giving up on getting the system back in balance'. Read more: French government refuses to back down on pension reform The Macron government, through its proposed legislation, is attempting to raise the legal retirement age in the country to 64, from the current 62. The government is of the view that extending the pension age will prevent the system from collapsing under the weight of deficits. Notably, the workers in France tend to retire much earlier than their European Union (EU) counterparts. The direct repercussion is that the French exchequer has to foot a bigger pension bill than most countries in the bloc. In January, taking a stern approach, Macron said he will get the reform bill passed in this year only. “This year will indeed be that of a pension reform that aims to guarantee the equilibrium of our system in the years and decades to come,” he said in a televised address. Read more: Macron government announces pension reforms amid strike threat by trade unions Since coming to power in 2017, fixing France's complicated pension has been one of the top agendas of the Macron administration. However, given the scale of demonstrations, the Macron administration may have to reel back in its aggressiveness. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Third round of nationwide strikes underway against Macron's 'unpopular' pension reform plan

<p>In the aftermath of the release of the&nbsp;Hindenburg report, Adani Group is looking to trim its capital spending plans, according to a Mint report. Additionally, the company will use the cash in hand for capex and to meet payment deadlines, amounting to $300 million over the next six months.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Indian company led by mogul Gautam Adani will widen its time horizon for growth in certain businesses&nbsp;and use alternative funding channels from internal accruals, promoter equity funding and private placements to fund projects.</p>

<p>“At Adani, there is a rethink on the capex. The group may moderate its capex plans in some of the businesses. So, instead of targeted growth over 12 months, they may look at a time frame of 16-18 months for that quantum of growth in certain businesses," one of the sources was quoted as saying by the publication.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/adani-groups-122-million-bond-plan-shelved-amid-hindenburg-row-558791"><strong>Read more: Adani Group’s $122 million bond plan shelved after Hindenburg allegations: Report</strong></a></p>

<p>The decision to curb spending plans comes data after Adani Group called off its $2.5 billion share sale. Gautam Adani, in a video released, said the decision was taken with the interest of investors in mind.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"In my humble journey of over 4 decades as an entrepreneur, I have been blessed to receive overwhelming support from all stakeholders particularly the investor community. It is important for me to confess that whatever little I have achieved in life is due to the faith and trust reposed by them."</p>

<p>"For me, the interest of my investors is paramount and everything else is secondary. Hence to insulate the investors from potential losses we have withdrawn the FPO."</p>

<p>Before its cancellation, Adani Enterprises’ follow-on public offering, India’s largest follow-on share sale, was fully subscribed. It included a $400 million investment from Abu Dhabi-based diversified conglomerate International Holding Company.</p>

<p>However, after the Hindenburg report came out, Adani and its affiliate companies have lost more than $100 billion in market value. Furthermore, the company, last week shelved its plans of releasing over $122 million in funds through the first-ever public sale of bonds.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-earnings-of-adani-group-firms-under-scanner-firms-to-report-earnings-this-week-wion-558971"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;India: Earnings of Adani group firms under scanner; firms to report earnings this week | WION</strong></a></p>

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<p>The Hindenburg report, in nutshell, accused the Adani group of stock manipulation using tax havens whilst having unsustainable debt.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On Budget day, February 1, shares of Adani Enterprises crashed 34.72 per cent to hit a day low of Rs 1,942. The share has tanked further since then and is currently trading under Rs 1600.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Congress party holds nationwide protest</strong></h2>

<p>India's main opposition parties on Monday kicked off planned protests at state-run companies such as LIC and SBI which had invested a considerable amount in the Adani Group.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Congress party in India held nationwide protests over the Adani-Hindenburg row. Dozens of members of the main opposition party in India were detained by police during protests. Besides that, the parliament was also suspended again due to disruptions.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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In the aftermath of the release of the Hindenburg report, Adani Group is looking to trim its capital spending plans, according to a Mint report. Additionally, the company will use the cash in hand for capex and to meet payment deadlines, amounting to $300 million over the next six months.

In the aftermath of the release of the Hindenburg report, Adani Group is looking to trim its capital spending plans, according to a Mint report. Additionally, the company will use the cash in hand for capex and to meet payment deadlines, amounting to $300 million over the next six months. The Indian company led by mogul Gautam Adani will widen its time horizon for growth in certain businesses and use alternative funding channels from internal accruals, promoter equity funding and private placements to fund projects. “At Adani, there is a rethink on the capex. The group may moderate its capex plans in some of the businesses. So, instead of targeted growth over 12 months, they may look at a time frame of 16-18 months for that quantum of growth in certain businesses," one of the sources was quoted as saying by the publication. Read more: Adani Group’s $122 million bond plan shelved after Hindenburg allegations: Report The decision to curb spending plans comes data after Adani Group called off its $2.5 billion share sale. Gautam Adani, in a video released, said the decision was taken with the interest of investors in mind. "In my humble journey of over 4 decades as an entrepreneur, I have been blessed to receive overwhelming support from all stakeholders particularly the investor community. It is important for me to confess that whatever little I have achieved in life is due to the faith and trust reposed by them." "For me, the interest of my investors is paramount and everything else is secondary. Hence to insulate the investors from potential losses we have withdrawn the FPO." Before its cancellation, Adani Enterprises’ follow-on public offering, India’s largest follow-on share sale, was fully subscribed. It included a $400 million investment from Abu Dhabi-based diversified conglomerate International Holding Company. However, after the Hindenburg report came out, Adani and its affiliate companies have lost more than $100 billion in market value. Furthermore, the company, last week shelved its plans of releasing over $122 million in funds through the first-ever public sale of bonds. WATCH | India: Earnings of Adani group firms under scanner; firms to report earnings this week | WION × The Hindenburg report, in nutshell, accused the Adani group of stock manipulation using tax havens whilst having unsustainable debt. On Budget day, February 1, shares of Adani Enterprises crashed 34.72 per cent to hit a day low of Rs 1,942. The share has tanked further since then and is currently trading under Rs 1600. Congress party holds nationwide protest India's main opposition parties on Monday kicked off planned protests at state-run companies such as LIC and SBI which had invested a considerable amount in the Adani Group. The Congress party in India held nationwide protests over the Adani-Hindenburg row. Dozens of members of the main opposition party in India were detained by police during protests. Besides that, the parliament was also suspended again due to disruptions. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

After Hindenburg shock, Adani Group to curb capital spending plans: Report

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidY8sZn96bySc4" /><meta charset="utf-8" />The rogue nation of North Korea stole more cryptocurrency assets in 2022 than any other year, a recent report by United Nations has revealed. Most of the money stolen was used to support its ballistic missile and weapons of mass destruction programmes.</p>

<p>The report asserted North Korea-linked hackers stole virtual assets worth $630 million while its cyber currency heist stood at a whopping $1 billion.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"(North Korea) used increasingly sophisticated cyber techniques both to gain access to digital networks involved in cyber finance and to steal information of potential value, including to its weapons programmes," read the UN report.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"A higher value of cryptocurrency assets was stolen by DPRK actors in 2022 than in any previous year," added the report which was submitted to the 15-member North Korea sanctions committee.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-how-does-north-korea-finance-its-missile-tests-535634"><strong>Gravitas Plus: How does North Korea finance its missile tests?</strong></a></p>

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<p>Ostracised by most countries across the globe, North Korea is a pariah state where the authoritarian regime of Kim Jong Un uses almost all the revenue for its missile programmes instead of public welfare.</p>

<p>However, with no major avenue available&nbsp;to bring in the money, stealing cryptocurrency and virtual assets has emerged as a promising option over the years.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier this year, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) informed that North Korean actors were behind the $100 million heist at crypto firm Harmony's Horizon bridge that took place in June 2022.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-behind-crypto-heist-that-happened-in-june-last-year-fbi-555335" target="_blank"><strong>Read more: North Korea behind crypto heist that happened in June last year: FBI</strong></a></p>

<p>In December 2022, South Korean intelligence agencies said North Korean hackers had stolen an estimated $1.2 billion in bitcoin and other virtual assets over the previous five years, with more than half of it happening in the said calendar year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Despite the hefty sanctions imposed by several countries as well as the UN, North Korea's missile programme has continued unabated.</p>

<p>Last year, the country fired a record number of ballistic missiles, comfortably overtaking its combined tally of four and eight missiles tested in 2020 and 2021 respectively. N Korea broke all records when it fired as many as 23 missiles in a single day.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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The rogue nation of North Korea stole more cryptocurrency assets in 2022 than any other year, a recent report by United Nations has revealed. Most of the money stolen was used to support its ballistic missile and weapons of mass destruction programmes.

The rogue nation of North Korea stole more cryptocurrency assets in 2022 than any other year, a recent report by United Nations has revealed. Most of the money stolen was used to support its ballistic missile and weapons of mass destruction programmes. The report asserted North Korea-linked hackers stole virtual assets worth $630 million while its cyber currency heist stood at a whopping $1 billion. "(North Korea) used increasingly sophisticated cyber techniques both to gain access to digital networks involved in cyber finance and to steal information of potential value, including to its weapons programmes," read the UN report. "A higher value of cryptocurrency assets was stolen by DPRK actors in 2022 than in any previous year," added the report which was submitted to the 15-member North Korea sanctions committee. Gravitas Plus: How does North Korea finance its missile tests? × Ostracised by most countries across the globe, North Korea is a pariah state where the authoritarian regime of Kim Jong Un uses almost all the revenue for its missile programmes instead of public welfare. However, with no major avenue available to bring in the money, stealing cryptocurrency and virtual assets has emerged as a promising option over the years. Earlier this year, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) informed that North Korean actors were behind the $100 million heist at crypto firm Harmony's Horizon bridge that took place in June 2022. Read more: North Korea behind crypto heist that happened in June last year: FBI In December 2022, South Korean intelligence agencies said North Korean hackers had stolen an estimated $1.2 billion in bitcoin and other virtual assets over the previous five years, with more than half of it happening in the said calendar year. Despite the hefty sanctions imposed by several countries as well as the UN, North Korea's missile programme has continued unabated. Last year, the country fired a record number of ballistic missiles, comfortably overtaking its combined tally of four and eight missiles tested in 2020 and 2021 respectively. N Korea broke all records when it fired as many as 23 missiles in a single day. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

North Korea stole record crypto assets and currencies in 2022: UN report

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<p>Taking advantage of a deadly earthquake that has left thousands dead, at least 20 prisoners escaped a Syrian prison on Monday. The jail inmates mutinied in the aftermath of the earthquake and managed to escape.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The military police prison, situated in the town of Rajo in southwestern Syria houses over 2,000 inmates with nearly&nbsp;1,300 belonging&nbsp;to the terror outfit Islamic State.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"After the earthquake struck, Rajo was affected and inmates started to mutiny and took control of parts of the prison," a jail official was quoted as saying by AFP.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"About 20 prisoners fled...who are believed to be IS terrorists."</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/turkiye-syria-jolted-by-massive-earthquakes-over-thousand-killed-559356"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Turkiye, Syria jolted by massive earthquakes, over thousand killed&nbsp;</strong></a></p>

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<p>Syrian Observatory for Human Rights war monitor released a statement saying it could not verify if the prisoners had escaped but confirmed there was a mutiny.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The alleged escape of the IS operatives comes a little more than a month after the terror outfit conducted an attack in Raqa to free the jihadists.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-drone-footage-shows-the-devastating-earthquake-aftermath-in-turkey-559441" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH | Drone footage shows the devastating earthquake aftermath in Turkey</strong></a></p>

<p>On Monday, while most of the populace across Turkey and Syria was sound asleep, an earthquake measuring 7.8 on the Richter scale with epicentre near the Syrian border struck the region.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The powerful shockwaves sent the buildings dangling while several high-rises were flattened in an instant. Tsunami alerts were issued by Italy, which was later withdrawn.</p>

<p>While the surviving people had barely braved the first earthquake, an aftershock measuring 7.5 hit the region a few hours later, further piling on the misery.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Going by the initial estimates, United Nations has predicted that the death toll could rise to more than 20,000.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/death-toll-in-turkiye-syria-earthquake-soars-to-4300-more-casualties-feared-559419" target="_blank"><strong>Read more: Death toll in Turkiye-Syria earthquake soars to 4,300, more casualties feared</strong></a></p>

<p>Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan&nbsp;has declared a seven-day national mourning. Meanwhile, international communities have rushed to help the disaster-hit nation. Many countries have come forward to send aid and rescue workers.</p>

<p>However, given the scale of the devastation, it could take months to get the final picture. The priority remains to save those, who might still be breathing under the debris.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:</strong></p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>


Taking advantage of a deadly earthquake that has left thousands dead, at least 20 prisoners escaped a Syrian prison on Monday. The jail inmates mutinied in the aftermath of the earthquake and managed to escape.

Taking advantage of a deadly earthquake that has left thousands dead, at least 20 prisoners escaped a Syrian prison on Monday. The jail inmates mutinied in the aftermath of the earthquake and managed to escape. The military police prison, situated in the town of Rajo in southwestern Syria houses over 2,000 inmates with nearly 1,300 belonging to the terror outfit Islamic State. "After the earthquake struck, Rajo was affected and inmates started to mutiny and took control of parts of the prison," a jail official was quoted as saying by AFP. "About 20 prisoners fled...who are believed to be IS terrorists." WATCH | Turkiye, Syria jolted by massive earthquakes, over thousand killed × Syrian Observatory for Human Rights war monitor released a statement saying it could not verify if the prisoners had escaped but confirmed there was a mutiny. The alleged escape of the IS operatives comes a little more than a month after the terror outfit conducted an attack in Raqa to free the jihadists. WATCH | Drone footage shows the devastating earthquake aftermath in Turkey On Monday, while most of the populace across Turkey and Syria was sound asleep, an earthquake measuring 7.8 on the Richter scale with epicentre near the Syrian border struck the region. The powerful shockwaves sent the buildings dangling while several high-rises were flattened in an instant. Tsunami alerts were issued by Italy, which was later withdrawn. While the surviving people had barely braved the first earthquake, an aftershock measuring 7.5 hit the region a few hours later, further piling on the misery. Going by the initial estimates, United Nations has predicted that the death toll could rise to more than 20,000. Read more: Death toll in Turkiye-Syria earthquake soars to 4,300, more casualties feared Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has declared a seven-day national mourning. Meanwhile, international communities have rushed to help the disaster-hit nation. Many countries have come forward to send aid and rescue workers. However, given the scale of the devastation, it could take months to get the final picture. The priority remains to save those, who might still be breathing under the debris. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

At least 20 inmates belonging to Islamic State escape Syrian prison after the earthquake

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<p>An asteroid, previously unknown and roughly the size of Rome's Colosseum has been detected by NASA's James Webb Space Telescope. It is the smallest cosmic object that Webb has discovered to date.</p>

<p>NASA took to its social media handles to inform about the discovery saying the asteroid had photobombed the Webb telescope.</p>

<p>The asteroid is between 300 to 650 feet (100 to 200 meters) in length and was discovered by European astronomers using Webb's Mid-InfraRed Instrument (MIRI). It was Webb's insane capability that a roughly 100-metre object at a distance of more than 100 million kilometres could be detected.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“This is a fantastic result which highlights the capabilities of MIRI to serendipitously detect a previously undetectable size of asteroid in the main belt. Repeats of these observations are in the process of being scheduled, and we are fully expecting new asteroid interlopers in those images," said Thomas Müller, an astronomer at the Max Planck Institute for Extraterrestrial Physics in Germany.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-fineprint-nasa-crashes-a-spacecraft-into-an-asteroid-520288"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;WION Fineprint | NASA crashes a spacecraft into an asteroid</strong></a></p>

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<p>The scientists informed that the main objective of the mission could not be achieved. However, after analysing the data, they "serendipitously detected" the new asteroid.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Our results show that even ‘failed’ Webb observations can be scientifically useful, if you have the right mindset and a little bit of luck," added Müller.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/asteroid-alert-a-stadium-sized-space-rock-is-hurtling-towards-earth-365317" target="_blank"><strong>Read more: Asteroid alert: A 'stadium sized' space rock is hurtling towards Earth</strong></a></p>

<p>The asteroid has been found in the main asteroid belt between Mars and Jupiter. The belt was first discovered by astronomers in 1998.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Teeny tiny photobomb! 📸<br />
<br />
Scientists found a surprise while looking through test data from Webb’s MIRI instrument. Webb serendipitously captured an asteroid (illustrated here) just 100-200 meters in length — likely its smallest object seen yet: <a href="https://t.co/3wuGJXhQpP">https://t.co/3wuGJXhQpP</a> <a href="https://t.co/JoBJE19lud">pic.twitter.com/JoBJE19lud</a></p>
— NASA Webb Telescope (@NASAWebb) <a href="https://twitter.com/NASAWebb/status/1622612790350385153?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 6, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>The premier space agency added that more observations were required to better characterize the asteroid's nature and properties.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/an-asteroid-bigger-than-statue-of-unity-to-hurtle-dangerously-close-to-earth-503543" target="_blank"><strong>Read more: An asteroid bigger than Statue of Unity to hurtle dangerously close to Earth</strong></a></p>

<p>To this date, astronomers across the world have managed to determine the exact location of over 1.1 million asteroids. However, akin to the new asteroid discovered by Webb, many remain unknown. Webb's infrared telescope, the most powerful in the world could help find the location of the remaining.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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An asteroid, previously unknown and roughly the size of Rome's Colosseum has been detected by NASA's James Webb Space Telescope. It is the smallest cosmic object that Webb has discovered to date.

An asteroid, previously unknown and roughly the size of Rome's Colosseum has been detected by NASA's James Webb Space Telescope. It is the smallest cosmic object that Webb has discovered to date. NASA took to its social media handles to inform about the discovery saying the asteroid had photobombed the Webb telescope. The asteroid is between 300 to 650 feet (100 to 200 meters) in length and was discovered by European astronomers using Webb's Mid-InfraRed Instrument (MIRI). It was Webb's insane capability that a roughly 100-metre object at a distance of more than 100 million kilometres could be detected. “This is a fantastic result which highlights the capabilities of MIRI to serendipitously detect a previously undetectable size of asteroid in the main belt. Repeats of these observations are in the process of being scheduled, and we are fully expecting new asteroid interlopers in those images," said Thomas Müller, an astronomer at the Max Planck Institute for Extraterrestrial Physics in Germany. WATCH | WION Fineprint | NASA crashes a spacecraft into an asteroid × The scientists informed that the main objective of the mission could not be achieved. However, after analysing the data, they "serendipitously detected" the new asteroid. “Our results show that even ‘failed’ Webb observations can be scientifically useful, if you have the right mindset and a little bit of luck," added Müller. Read more: Asteroid alert: A 'stadium sized' space rock is hurtling towards Earth The asteroid has been found in the main asteroid belt between Mars and Jupiter. The belt was first discovered by astronomers in 1998. Teeny tiny photobomb! 📸 Scientists found a surprise while looking through test data from Webb’s MIRI instrument. Webb serendipitously captured an asteroid (illustrated here) just 100-200 meters in length — likely its smallest object seen yet: https://t.co/3wuGJXhQpP pic.twitter.com/JoBJE19lud — NASA Webb Telescope (@NASAWebb) February 6, 2023 × The premier space agency added that more observations were required to better characterize the asteroid's nature and properties. Read more: An asteroid bigger than Statue of Unity to hurtle dangerously close to Earth To this date, astronomers across the world have managed to determine the exact location of over 1.1 million asteroids. However, akin to the new asteroid discovered by Webb, many remain unknown. Webb's infrared telescope, the most powerful in the world could help find the location of the remaining. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

NASA's Webb gets 'photobombed' by a Colosseum-sized asteroid

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<p>A trial has begun under Hong Kong's draconian national security law with 47 prominent pro-democracy figures taking the stand, a little more than two years after being rounded up in the custody by the authorities.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The judicial proceedings are expected to last four months and if convicted, the defendants face up to life in prison.</p>

<p>Notably, prior to the beginning of the trial, a small group of protesters gathered outside the courthouse to show solidarity with those arrested.</p>

<p>The group, which included activists, politicians and community workers have been accused of holding pre-election primaries. The primaries were held to give options to the public, other than the pro-Beijing establishment parties provided.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/rick-and-morty-fans-spot-hong-kong-pro-democracy-protest-codes-in-new-episode-522713"><strong>Read more:&nbsp;Rick and Morty fans spot Hong Kong pro-democracy protest codes in new episode</strong></a></p>

<p>However, law enforcement agencies dubbed it a massive and well-organised scheme' that could topple Hong Kong's government.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The main aim of the group was to win a majority in the city's legislature, allowing them to veto budgets and force the partisan legislators out.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Hong Kong's leader is chosen by pro-Beijing committees, but half of its legislature's 70 seats are directly elected, offering the city's 7.5 million residents a rare chance to have their voices heard at the ballot box.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-how-democracy-died-in-hong-kong-310043"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: How democracy died in Hong Kong</strong></a></p>

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<p><strong>What is it about the law?</strong></p>

<p>China introduced the highly controversial National Security Bill for Hong Kong in 2020 amid a sea of protests.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The bill, which is now a law in Hong Kong, attempts to punish crimes of secession, sedition, and collusion with foreign forces.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/man-plays-glory-to-hong-kong-while-paying-tribute-to-queen-held-under-sedition-law-518496" target="_blank"><strong>Read more: Man plays ‘Glory to Hong Kong’ while paying tribute to Queen, held under sedition law</strong></a></p>

<p>When the bill was passed despite ordinary Hong Kong folks taking to the streets for months, it was described by the pro-democracy activists as ‘the end of Hong Kong that the world knew before’.</p>

<p>It was always believed that free speech will be culled after the passing of the law. And since then, on multiple occasions, ordinary citizens have been locked or beaten black and blue for deviating from the set standards of free speech.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The outcome of the case is being closely monitored by pro-democracy voices across the globe.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


A trial has begun under Hong Kong's draconian national security law with 47 prominent pro-democracy figures taking the stand, a little more than two years after being rounded up in the custody by the authorities.

A trial has begun under Hong Kong's draconian national security law with 47 prominent pro-democracy figures taking the stand, a little more than two years after being rounded up in the custody by the authorities. The judicial proceedings are expected to last four months and if convicted, the defendants face up to life in prison. Notably, prior to the beginning of the trial, a small group of protesters gathered outside the courthouse to show solidarity with those arrested. The group, which included activists, politicians and community workers have been accused of holding pre-election primaries. The primaries were held to give options to the public, other than the pro-Beijing establishment parties provided. Read more: Rick and Morty fans spot Hong Kong pro-democracy protest codes in new episode However, law enforcement agencies dubbed it a massive and well-organised scheme' that could topple Hong Kong's government. The main aim of the group was to win a majority in the city's legislature, allowing them to veto budgets and force the partisan legislators out. Hong Kong's leader is chosen by pro-Beijing committees, but half of its legislature's 70 seats are directly elected, offering the city's 7.5 million residents a rare chance to have their voices heard at the ballot box. WATCH | Gravitas: How democracy died in Hong Kong × What is it about the law? China introduced the highly controversial National Security Bill for Hong Kong in 2020 amid a sea of protests. The bill, which is now a law in Hong Kong, attempts to punish crimes of secession, sedition, and collusion with foreign forces. Read more: Man plays ‘Glory to Hong Kong’ while paying tribute to Queen, held under sedition law When the bill was passed despite ordinary Hong Kong folks taking to the streets for months, it was described by the pro-democracy activists as ‘the end of Hong Kong that the world knew before’. It was always believed that free speech will be culled after the passing of the law. And since then, on multiple occasions, ordinary citizens have been locked or beaten black and blue for deviating from the set standards of free speech. The outcome of the case is being closely monitored by pro-democracy voices across the globe. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Trial begins for 47 pro-democracy voices in Hong Kong, protests take place outside court

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<p>In what is being dubbed the biggest strike in the history of the National Health Service (NHS), thousands of workers, including nurses and GMB union workers in England and Wales are taking industrial action today.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The pay dispute between the Royal College of Nursing (RCN) and the government has escalated in recent times, forcing the workers to go on strike. Patricia Marquis, director RCN urged Prime Minister Rishi Sunak to address the concerns of the NHS workers and find a solution.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Notably, despite four previous strike days, Sunak is yet to establish any 'direct contact' with RCN.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It's a cry out to Rishi Sunak to come to the table to seek a resolution. So far we've not had direct contact with him, all of our efforts have been through the secretary of state for health," Marquis was quoted as saying by Sky.</p>

<p>"So really, now, we don't want the strikes to go ahead...and we're really calling on the prime minister to intervene, to come to the table and seek a resolution with us."</p>

<p>It will be the first time since December that ambulance crews and nurses will simultaneously take industrial action after the movement got off the ground in December last year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the workers, under the trade union laws, emergency cover will be provided. However, the citizens are requested to avail 'emergency' services, only in cases of acute distress.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-100000-nhs-nurses-strike-in-uk-over-salaries-543517"><strong>WATCH| Gravitas: 100,000 NHS Nurses strike in UK over salaries</strong></a></p>

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<p>NHS, a revered British institute has been crumbling under the sheer weight of demand as staffing shortages, stretched funding and measly payments make it almost impossible for the workers to continue.&nbsp;</p>

<p>NHS workers were at the forefront of Britain's battle with COVID-19. However, the failure of the government to compensate them fairly for their services has irked thousands plying their trade in the medical sector.&nbsp;</p>

<p>RCN has been demanding that the Sunak government give a pay hike of five per cent above retail inflation. Additionally, the Tories are being requested to fill the staff vacancies as patient safety remains in jeopardy due to an excessive staff crunch.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-nurses-threaten-tougher-strikes-as-nhs-dispute-escalates-544170" target="_blank"><strong>Read more: NHS crisis may worsen: UK nurses set Thursday deadline for talks, warn of tougher strikes ahead&nbsp;</strong></a></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


In what is being dubbed the biggest strike in the history of the National Health Service (NHS), thousands of workers, including nurses and GMB union workers in England and Wales are taking industrial action today.

In what is being dubbed the biggest strike in the history of the National Health Service (NHS), thousands of workers, including nurses and GMB union workers in England and Wales are taking industrial action today. The pay dispute between the Royal College of Nursing (RCN) and the government has escalated in recent times, forcing the workers to go on strike. Patricia Marquis, director RCN urged Prime Minister Rishi Sunak to address the concerns of the NHS workers and find a solution. Notably, despite four previous strike days, Sunak is yet to establish any 'direct contact' with RCN. "It's a cry out to Rishi Sunak to come to the table to seek a resolution. So far we've not had direct contact with him, all of our efforts have been through the secretary of state for health," Marquis was quoted as saying by Sky. "So really, now, we don't want the strikes to go ahead...and we're really calling on the prime minister to intervene, to come to the table and seek a resolution with us." It will be the first time since December that ambulance crews and nurses will simultaneously take industrial action after the movement got off the ground in December last year. According to the workers, under the trade union laws, emergency cover will be provided. However, the citizens are requested to avail 'emergency' services, only in cases of acute distress. WATCH| Gravitas: 100,000 NHS Nurses strike in UK over salaries × NHS, a revered British institute has been crumbling under the sheer weight of demand as staffing shortages, stretched funding and measly payments make it almost impossible for the workers to continue. NHS workers were at the forefront of Britain's battle with COVID-19. However, the failure of the government to compensate them fairly for their services has irked thousands plying their trade in the medical sector. RCN has been demanding that the Sunak government give a pay hike of five per cent above retail inflation. Additionally, the Tories are being requested to fill the staff vacancies as patient safety remains in jeopardy due to an excessive staff crunch. Read more: NHS crisis may worsen: UK nurses set Thursday deadline for talks, warn of tougher strikes ahead (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

NHS stages biggest-ever industrial strike, calls on Sunak to intervene

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