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<p>With a rogue Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) increasing its intensity of terrorist attacks across the country, the Pakistani government is mulling launching a military offensive, according to Pakistani media reports.&nbsp;Close-door discussions have taken place over TTP and government officials are prepared to take counter-measures against an organisation that was allowed to grow and develop under their wings.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The situation in certain areas of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, particularly in the tribal districts, has deteriorated to the extent that a major military offensive is not ruled out,” an anonymous official was quoted as saying by The Express Tribune.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The talks with the TTP are no longer taking place and the return of militants as part of an earlier understanding will have to be reversed.”</p>

<p>The officials conceded that engaging in talks with the terror outfit was a big mistake and that all avenues of diplomacy had been exhausted.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-has-pakistan-become-a-suicide-state-546188" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH | Gravitas: Has Pakistan become a 'suicide state'?</strong></a></p>

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<p>Last month, TTP announced via a letter that it was calling off the ceasefire agreed upon with the Pakistani government. Since then, a series of gruesome, coordinated terrorist attacks have taken place across Pakistan with TTP claiming the responsibility for the majority.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The talks between the government and TTP had collapsed in August as the former attempted to rein in the homegrown monster.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During the talks, TTP refused to budge on its demand for the reversal of the merger of Federally Administered Tribal Areas with the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-taliban-calls-off-ceasefire-with-pakistan-government-538253" target="_blank"><strong>Read more: Pakistan Taliban call off ceasefire with Pakistan government</strong></a></p>

<p><strong>What is TTP?</strong></p>

<p>TTP, once considered an ally by the Pakistani government, has fashioned itself on the lines of the Afghan Taliban.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Unlike what the officials sitting in Islamabad believed, TTP since its inception has been anti-Pakistan in its stance. The outfit has repeatedly refused to acknowledge the Durand Line as well.</p>

<p>Taliban, which the Pakistani government supports in one way or another, has been secretly supporting TTP terrorists as well.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Experts are of the view that by allowing the Taliban and TTP to grow, Pakistan is effectively setting itself up for the same fate as Afghanistan.</p>

<p>The military offensive is perhaps the last roll of the dice by the Pakistani government to stop the TTP before it grows into an even more sinister threat.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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With a rogue Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) increasing its intensity of terrorist attacks across the country, the Pakistani government is mulling launching a military offensive, according to Pakistani media reports.

With a rogue Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) increasing its intensity of terrorist attacks across the country, the Pakistani government is mulling launching a military offensive, according to Pakistani media reports. Close-door discussions have taken place over TTP and government officials are prepared to take counter-measures against an organisation that was allowed to grow and develop under their wings. “The situation in certain areas of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, particularly in the tribal districts, has deteriorated to the extent that a major military offensive is not ruled out,” an anonymous official was quoted as saying by The Express Tribune. “The talks with the TTP are no longer taking place and the return of militants as part of an earlier understanding will have to be reversed.” The officials conceded that engaging in talks with the terror outfit was a big mistake and that all avenues of diplomacy had been exhausted. WATCH | Gravitas: Has Pakistan become a 'suicide state'? × Last month, TTP announced via a letter that it was calling off the ceasefire agreed upon with the Pakistani government. Since then, a series of gruesome, coordinated terrorist attacks have taken place across Pakistan with TTP claiming the responsibility for the majority. The talks between the government and TTP had collapsed in August as the former attempted to rein in the homegrown monster. During the talks, TTP refused to budge on its demand for the reversal of the merger of Federally Administered Tribal Areas with the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. Read more: Pakistan Taliban call off ceasefire with Pakistan government What is TTP? TTP, once considered an ally by the Pakistani government, has fashioned itself on the lines of the Afghan Taliban. Unlike what the officials sitting in Islamabad believed, TTP since its inception has been anti-Pakistan in its stance. The outfit has repeatedly refused to acknowledge the Durand Line as well. Taliban, which the Pakistani government supports in one way or another, has been secretly supporting TTP terrorists as well. Experts are of the view that by allowing the Taliban and TTP to grow, Pakistan is effectively setting itself up for the same fate as Afghanistan. The military offensive is perhaps the last roll of the dice by the Pakistani government to stop the TTP before it grows into an even more sinister threat. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Troubled by home-grown monster TTP, Pakistan govt mulls military offensive: Reports

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<p>Mikey Hothi has become the first-ever Sikh mayor of a Californian city after receiving keys to the city of Lodi. Hothi was unanimously elected as the 117th mayor of the city on Wednesday to a rousing standing ovation from his colleagues.</p>

<p>Hothi will serve a two-year term as the city's mayor. He will preside over the meetings of the Common Council and serve as the city's executive officer.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He has previously served as the vice mayor of the council's fifth district. The newly-crowned mayor was endorsed by councilwoman Lisa Craig for the post.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Hothi took to Twitter to accept the congratulatory messages after the oath-taking ceremony.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Honored to be sworn in as the 117th Mayor of the City of Lodi," tweeted Hothi.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Honored to be sworn in as the 117th Mayor of the City of Lodi <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/lodica?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#lodica</a> #209 <a href="https://t.co/dgmrYyz5gk">pic.twitter.com/dgmrYyz5gk</a></p>
— Mikey Hothi (@mikey_hothi) <a href="https://twitter.com/mikey_hothi/status/1606093792699854850?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 23, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>Speaking to a local news agency, Hothi reflected upon his family making the journey to Lodi and how he was proud to be one of the community.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Everyone came to Lodi because they realised it was a safe family town. (It has) great education, great people, great culture, great values, and just hard-working people in this town. I'm just proud to represent this community as its next mayor," Hothi was quoted as saying by Lodinews.com.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Our experience is similar to that of the Hispanic community that came before us, the Greek community, the Germans," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-nominates-indian-american-richard-verma-to-top-diplomatic-post-in-state-department-546275" target="_blank"><strong>Read more: US President nominates Indian-American Richard Verma to top diplomatic post in State Department</strong></a></p>

<p>Hothi's parents hail from the northern Indian state of Punjab. According to the newly-elected mayor, the family, upon migrating to Lodi, not only survived but thrived.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Hothi graduated from Tokay High School in 2008 and has had the experience of facing discrimination, especially post 9/11 when Muslims and Sikhs were subjected to routine harassment.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to census data, Lodi is a city located in San Joaquin County, California with an estimated population of 67,021.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>


Mikey Hothi has become the first-ever Sikh mayor of a Californian city after receiving keys to the city of Lodi. Hothi was unanimously elected as the 117th mayor of the city on Wednesday to a rousing standing ovation from his colleagues.

Mikey Hothi has become the first-ever Sikh mayor of a Californian city after receiving keys to the city of Lodi. Hothi was unanimously elected as the 117th mayor of the city on Wednesday to a rousing standing ovation from his colleagues. Hothi will serve a two-year term as the city's mayor. He will preside over the meetings of the Common Council and serve as the city's executive officer. He has previously served as the vice mayor of the council's fifth district. The newly-crowned mayor was endorsed by councilwoman Lisa Craig for the post. Hothi took to Twitter to accept the congratulatory messages after the oath-taking ceremony. "Honored to be sworn in as the 117th Mayor of the City of Lodi," tweeted Hothi. Honored to be sworn in as the 117th Mayor of the City of Lodi #lodica #209 pic.twitter.com/dgmrYyz5gk — Mikey Hothi (@mikey_hothi) December 23, 2022 × Speaking to a local news agency, Hothi reflected upon his family making the journey to Lodi and how he was proud to be one of the community. "Everyone came to Lodi because they realised it was a safe family town. (It has) great education, great people, great culture, great values, and just hard-working people in this town. I'm just proud to represent this community as its next mayor," Hothi was quoted as saying by Lodinews.com. "Our experience is similar to that of the Hispanic community that came before us, the Greek community, the Germans," he added. Read more: US President nominates Indian-American Richard Verma to top diplomatic post in State Department Hothi's parents hail from the northern Indian state of Punjab. According to the newly-elected mayor, the family, upon migrating to Lodi, not only survived but thrived. Hothi graduated from Tokay High School in 2008 and has had the experience of facing discrimination, especially post 9/11 when Muslims and Sikhs were subjected to routine harassment. According to census data, Lodi is a city located in San Joaquin County, California with an estimated population of 67,021. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Milestone: This US city has got its first-ever Sikh mayor

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<p>A German Federal Intelligence Service (BND) agent has been arrested on the suspicion that he was spying for Russia. The arrest took place on Thursday and the suspect&nbsp;has been charged with treason, according to the national prosecutors.&nbsp;The officer named Carsten L. was arrested in Berlin under German privacy laws.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The accused is suspected of state treason. In 2022, he shared information that he came by in the course of his work with a Russian intelligence agency. The content is considered a state secret," read the statement shared by federal prosecutors.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This is not the first time that Germany has managed to unearth hidden spies. In April, earlier this year, the German government expelled 40 Russian' 'spies' who were surreptitiously providing crucial intel to Moscow.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/investigators-claim-russian-illegal-spy-mixed-with-nato-officials-in-naples-510575" target="_blank"><strong>Read more: Russian 'deep cover-spy' mixed freely with NATO officials in Naples, claim investigators</strong></a></p>

<p>However, the last time an intelligence officer was arrested for treason was in 2014. Markus R, an intelligence employee was sentenced to eight years in prison for revealing top-secret information to the USA's Central Intelligence Agency (CIA).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Notably, BND, in its work and scope is akin to CIA with the mission statement clearly mentioning the job of the agency is to compile “political, economic and military foreign intelligence.”</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russian-spies-hacked-former-uk-prime-minister-liz-truss-mobile-phone-529597"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Russian spies hacked former UK Prime Minister Liz Truss' mobile phone</strong></a></p>

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<p><strong>Why has the 'spy' activity increased?</strong></p>

<p>Germany and Russia have been at loggerheads ever since the latter invaded Ukraine. While Berlin has sided with Kyiv, Moscow has used its position of being the supplier of natural gas and oil to the European country as leverage.&nbsp;</p>

<p>For the major part of the year, Germany and Russia squabbled over the Nord Stream 1 pipeline. The pipeline runs from Russia to Germany under the Baltic Sea and is considered the lifeline of European countries.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It was in July that Russia closed Nord Stream 1 for the first time citing maintenance. It added that the 12-metre turbine used to operate the pipeline was stuck in Canada for repairs.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gazproms-halt-of-nord-stream-1-pipeline-plunges-europe-into-a-gas-crisis-509359"><strong>Read more:&nbsp;Gazprom's halt of Nord Stream 1 pipeline plunges Europe into a gas crisis</strong></a></p>

<p>Afterwards, the multiple blasts surrounding both Nord Stream 1 and Nord Stream 2 pipelines caused a significant slowdown in supplies, taking the bilateral relations between the two powerhouses to an all-time low.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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A German Federal Intelligence Service (BND) agent has been arrested on the suspicion that he was spying for Russia. The arrest took place on Thursday and the suspect has been charged with treason, according to the national prosecutors.

A German Federal Intelligence Service (BND) agent has been arrested on the suspicion that he was spying for Russia. The arrest took place on Thursday and the suspect has been charged with treason, according to the national prosecutors. The officer named Carsten L. was arrested in Berlin under German privacy laws. “The accused is suspected of state treason. In 2022, he shared information that he came by in the course of his work with a Russian intelligence agency. The content is considered a state secret," read the statement shared by federal prosecutors. This is not the first time that Germany has managed to unearth hidden spies. In April, earlier this year, the German government expelled 40 Russian' 'spies' who were surreptitiously providing crucial intel to Moscow. Read more: Russian 'deep cover-spy' mixed freely with NATO officials in Naples, claim investigators However, the last time an intelligence officer was arrested for treason was in 2014. Markus R, an intelligence employee was sentenced to eight years in prison for revealing top-secret information to the USA's Central Intelligence Agency (CIA). Notably, BND, in its work and scope is akin to CIA with the mission statement clearly mentioning the job of the agency is to compile “political, economic and military foreign intelligence.” WATCH | Russian spies hacked former UK Prime Minister Liz Truss' mobile phone × Why has the 'spy' activity increased? Germany and Russia have been at loggerheads ever since the latter invaded Ukraine. While Berlin has sided with Kyiv, Moscow has used its position of being the supplier of natural gas and oil to the European country as leverage. For the major part of the year, Germany and Russia squabbled over the Nord Stream 1 pipeline. The pipeline runs from Russia to Germany under the Baltic Sea and is considered the lifeline of European countries. It was in July that Russia closed Nord Stream 1 for the first time citing maintenance. It added that the 12-metre turbine used to operate the pipeline was stuck in Canada for repairs. Read more: Gazprom's halt of Nord Stream 1 pipeline plunges Europe into a gas crisis Afterwards, the multiple blasts surrounding both Nord Stream 1 and Nord Stream 2 pipelines caused a significant slowdown in supplies, taking the bilateral relations between the two powerhouses to an all-time low. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Germany arrests one of its intelligence officers for being a Russian spy

<p>Sitiveni Rabuka replaced Frank Bainimarama as the 12th Prime Minister of Fiji on Saturday. Fiji's parliament chose the former military commander as their new leader, which terminated Bainimarama's 16 years in power. Meanwhile, the new Fiji PM has alleged the outgoing government for enraged the citizens against his return.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In 2006, Bainimarama overturned the government in a military coup and claimed the title of prime minister a year later. Speaker Naiqama Lalabalavu declared that 74-year-old Rabuka succeeded Bainimarana by 28 votes to 27 in a secret parliament poll. The two-time coup leader, Rabuka, felt 'humbled' as he made his way of the parliament, Barron's reported.&nbsp;</p>

<p>People celebrated 'Rambo' Rabuka's triumph over Bainimarama by honking their cars outside the parliament in Suva, Fiji's capital. Suji Seam, the European Union Ambassador, also congratulated Rabuka for his victory.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ|</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fiji-poll-opposition-calls-for-halt-to-counting-threatens-to-boycott-parliament-543244">Fiji's Prime Minister Frank Bainimarama fails to win majority in general election</a></p>

<p>Fiji's Social Democratic Liberal party (Sodelpa) have agreed to form a coalition government with Rabuka's party (People's Alliance) following deadlocked elections. In the wake of the national events, there were attacks on the Indian ethnic community. Thus, officials deployed the military on Suva's streets.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Rabuka will lead the Pacific country with a tripartite coalition between the People's Alliance, National Federation Party, and Sodelpa. However, there's a contrast of ideologies amongst them as Fiji's National Federation Party is more liberal-democratic, while, Soldepa is indigenous-focused.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Fear gripped the citizens of Fiji because of the government's claims of ethnic violence, followed by a military deployment. However, Bainimarama mentioned that they deployed the troops to maintain 'law and order.'</p>

<p><strong>WATCH|&nbsp;Former Pak PM Imran Khan's sleazy audio latest in series of leaks</strong></p>

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<p>Rabuka, the former Fijian rugby international player, made a remarkable return as he sealed a coalition accord with Fiji's kingmaker party on Friday. In the past 35 years, four coups have toppled the Fiji government.</p>

<p>Earlier, Sodelpa preferred the People's Alliance over Bainimarama's Fiji First. However, the country's election supervisor ruled out the vote.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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Sitiveni Rabuka replaced Frank Bainimarama as the 12th Prime Minister of Fiji on Saturday. Fiji's parliament chose the former military commander as their new leader, which terminated Bainimarama's 16 years in power.

Sitiveni Rabuka replaced Frank Bainimarama as the 12th Prime Minister of Fiji on Saturday. Fiji's parliament chose the former military commander as their new leader, which terminated Bainimarama's 16 years in power. Meanwhile, the new Fiji PM has alleged the outgoing government for enraged the citizens against his return. In 2006, Bainimarama overturned the government in a military coup and claimed the title of prime minister a year later. Speaker Naiqama Lalabalavu declared that 74-year-old Rabuka succeeded Bainimarana by 28 votes to 27 in a secret parliament poll. The two-time coup leader, Rabuka, felt 'humbled' as he made his way of the parliament, Barron's reported. People celebrated 'Rambo' Rabuka's triumph over Bainimarama by honking their cars outside the parliament in Suva, Fiji's capital. Suji Seam, the European Union Ambassador, also congratulated Rabuka for his victory. ALSO READ| Fiji's Prime Minister Frank Bainimarama fails to win majority in general election Fiji's Social Democratic Liberal party (Sodelpa) have agreed to form a coalition government with Rabuka's party (People's Alliance) following deadlocked elections. In the wake of the national events, there were attacks on the Indian ethnic community. Thus, officials deployed the military on Suva's streets. Rabuka will lead the Pacific country with a tripartite coalition between the People's Alliance, National Federation Party, and Sodelpa. However, there's a contrast of ideologies amongst them as Fiji's National Federation Party is more liberal-democratic, while, Soldepa is indigenous-focused. Fear gripped the citizens of Fiji because of the government's claims of ethnic violence, followed by a military deployment. However, Bainimarama mentioned that they deployed the troops to maintain 'law and order.' WATCH| Former Pak PM Imran Khan's sleazy audio latest in series of leaks Rabuka, the former Fijian rugby international player, made a remarkable return as he sealed a coalition accord with Fiji's kingmaker party on Friday. In the past 35 years, four coups have toppled the Fiji government. Earlier, Sodelpa preferred the People's Alliance over Bainimarama's Fiji First. However, the country's election supervisor ruled out the vote. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Sitiveni Rabuka unseats Frank Bainimarama as Fiji's prime minister after 16 years

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<p>Barely a month after the city of Jeddah in Saudi Arabia witnessed record levels of rain, flash floods have submerged the city of Mecca, the holy pilgrimage destination for Muslims.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Following a night of torrential rain, flash floods hit the streets of Mecca on Friday morning, damaging properties and vehicles.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">WATCH: <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BNNSaudiArabia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BNNSaudiArabia</a> Reports<br />
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Thunderstorms and flooding greeted Umrah pilgrims to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Makkah?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Makkah</a> on Friday, as <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Jeddah?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Jeddah</a> braced for even more heavy rain.<br />
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Footage showed downpours in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Mecca?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Mecca</a> al-Mukarrama flooding buildings and washing away cars in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SaudiArabia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SaudiArabia</a>'s holiest city. <a href="https://t.co/s2hfY2076O">pic.twitter.com/s2hfY2076O</a></p>
— Gurbaksh Singh Chahal (@gchahal) <a href="https://twitter.com/gchahal/status/1606263984956395520?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 23, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>The citizens took to social media platforms to share videos of cars being swept away by the heavy currents of water. The streets were overflowing with rain water as the sewage system appeared to be bursting at the seams.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="in">Rain 🌧️ Subahanallah 💕<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Makkah?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Makkah</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/rain?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#rain</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SaudiArabia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SaudiArabia</a> <a href="https://t.co/jUXI166dd5">pic.twitter.com/jUXI166dd5</a></p>
— Irfan Hossain Abir (@itsirfanabir) <a href="https://twitter.com/itsirfanabir/status/1606252112148459520?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 23, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>Such has been the extent of rain that authorities at the King Abdulaziz Airport have asked travellers to confirm the status&nbsp;</p>

<p>Mecca is one of the biggest pilgrimage sites for Muslims across the world. The Grand Mosque of Mecca was also inundated as pilgrims drenched in the mosque's courtyard.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/middle-east/watch-video-heavy-rains-thunderstorms-and-floods-hit-saudi-arabias-jeddah-schools-shut-and-flights-delayed-537131" target="_blank"><strong>Watch Video: Heavy rains, thunderstorms and floods hit Saudi Arabia's Jeddah, schools shut and flights delayed</strong></a></p>

<p>The National Center of Meteorology, late on Friday night issued a mild warning, telling people to expect more torrential rain in the coming days in parts of the Makkah, Madinah and Tabuk areas.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>179 mm of rain downpour last month</strong></p>

<p>Notably, last month, the city of Jeddah recorded 179 mm of rain on a single day on November 24 between 0800-1400 hours. The figure broke the record set in 2009 when 90 mm of downpour occurred, killing more than 120.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After the rain, the schools in the city were suspended. Meanwhile, Saudi's two most known universities, King Abdulaziz University and the University of Jeddah, final exams were postponed for the first semester.</p>

<p>Earlier this year in January, Saudi social media users had shared videos of a rare snowfall in the Tabuk region after a high drop in temperature.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/saudi-arabia-tabuk-region-experiences-rare-snowfall-after-huge-drop-in-temperature-overnight-444137"><strong>Read more:&nbsp;Saudi Arabia: Tabuk region experiences rare snowfall after huge drop in temperature overnight</strong></a></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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Barely a month after the city of Jeddah in Saudi Arabia witnessed record levels of rain, flash floods have submerged the city of Mecca, the holy pilgrimage destination for Muslims.

Barely a month after the city of Jeddah in Saudi Arabia witnessed record levels of rain, flash floods have submerged the city of Mecca, the holy pilgrimage destination for Muslims. Following a night of torrential rain, flash floods hit the streets of Mecca on Friday morning, damaging properties and vehicles. WATCH: #BNNSaudiArabia Reports Thunderstorms and flooding greeted Umrah pilgrims to #Makkah on Friday, as #Jeddah braced for even more heavy rain. Footage showed downpours in #Mecca al-Mukarrama flooding buildings and washing away cars in #SaudiArabia's holiest city. pic.twitter.com/s2hfY2076O — Gurbaksh Singh Chahal (@gchahal) December 23, 2022 × The citizens took to social media platforms to share videos of cars being swept away by the heavy currents of water. The streets were overflowing with rain water as the sewage system appeared to be bursting at the seams. Rain 🌧️ Subahanallah 💕#Makkah #rain #SaudiArabia pic.twitter.com/jUXI166dd5 — Irfan Hossain Abir (@itsirfanabir) December 23, 2022 × Such has been the extent of rain that authorities at the King Abdulaziz Airport have asked travellers to confirm the status Mecca is one of the biggest pilgrimage sites for Muslims across the world. The Grand Mosque of Mecca was also inundated as pilgrims drenched in the mosque's courtyard. Watch Video: Heavy rains, thunderstorms and floods hit Saudi Arabia's Jeddah, schools shut and flights delayed The National Center of Meteorology, late on Friday night issued a mild warning, telling people to expect more torrential rain in the coming days in parts of the Makkah, Madinah and Tabuk areas. 179 mm of rain downpour last month Notably, last month, the city of Jeddah recorded 179 mm of rain on a single day on November 24 between 0800-1400 hours. The figure broke the record set in 2009 when 90 mm of downpour occurred, killing more than 120. After the rain, the schools in the city were suspended. Meanwhile, Saudi's two most known universities, King Abdulaziz University and the University of Jeddah, final exams were postponed for the first semester. Earlier this year in January, Saudi social media users had shared videos of a rare snowfall in the Tabuk region after a high drop in temperature. Read more: Saudi Arabia: Tabuk region experiences rare snowfall after huge drop in temperature overnight (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

WATCH | Saudi Arabian city of Mecca rocked by flash floods, warning issued

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<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidxkvRrx9nsQLH" /><meta charset="utf-8" />China's National Health Commission (NHC) has said that nearly 37 million people may have been infected with Covid on a single day this week, making China's outbreak by far the largest in the world. This single-day estimate was for December 20 when a little over 3,000 cases were seen, as per the official tally.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The minutes of an internal meeting of the NHC held on Wednesday showed that 248 million people, or nearly 18 per cent&nbsp;of the country's population, likely contracted Covid in the first 20 days of December, news agency Bloomberg reported on Friday. If the data is accurate, the infection rate would dwarf China's previous daily record of about four million Covid cases, which was set in January this year.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-cannot-escape-shanghai-hospital-warns-staff-of-tragic-battle-against-covid-545534">'We cannot escape': Shanghai hospital warns staff of 'tragic battle' against Covid</a></strong></p>

<p>The minutes of the meeting did not note a discussion on deaths due to the virus. However, the minutes cited the commission's head Ma Xiaowei who reiterated the new criteria used for identifying Covid deaths that have prompted criticism from many disease experts. Acknowledging that deaths will inevitably occur when Covid spreads rapidly, Xiaowei underscored that only people who died from Covid-induced Pneumonia should be included in mortality statistics.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The government, meanwhile, has also stopped publishing the daily number of asymptomatic cases.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Didn't receive data from China on new Covid hospitalisations: WHO</strong></p>

<p>Since the Chinese government lifted the Zero-Covid policy, <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-didnt-receive-data-from-china-on-new-covid-hospitalisations-report-546030">the World Health Organization (WHO) has not received new data</a></strong> from the country on virus hospitalisations. The absence of data has prompted experts to question whether China might be hiding information on the pandemic.&nbsp;</p>

<p>WHO's weekly reports showed a surge in hospitalisations up to the government's December 7 decision to ease restrictions on movement, Reuters reported on Friday. However, the figures are not present in the last two reports.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>China requisitions medical supplies production across nation</strong></p>

<p>Amid a shortage of life-saving medicines and testing kits in China, the government has requisitioned medical supplies production. Over a dozen Chinese pharmaceutical companies have been tapped by officials to help secure the supply of key medicines, AFP reported on Friday. On the other hand, At least 11 of the 42 testing kit makers- whose products are licensed by the country's medical regulators had their part of production seized by the government.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-spike-in-china-causes-citizens-to-turn-to-black-market-for-medicines-545593">Covid spike in China causes citizens to turn to black market for medicines</a></strong></p>

<p>The development comes after ordinary citizens have been turning to the black market to secure medicines such as Pfizer's Paxlovid.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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China's National Health Commission (NHC) has said that nearly 37 million people may have been infected with Covid on a single day this week, making China's outbreak by far the largest in the world.

China's National Health Commission (NHC) has said that nearly 37 million people may have been infected with Covid on a single day this week, making China's outbreak by far the largest in the world. This single-day estimate was for December 20 when a little over 3,000 cases were seen, as per the official tally. The minutes of an internal meeting of the NHC held on Wednesday showed that 248 million people, or nearly 18 per cent of the country's population, likely contracted Covid in the first 20 days of December, news agency Bloomberg reported on Friday. If the data is accurate, the infection rate would dwarf China's previous daily record of about four million Covid cases, which was set in January this year. ALSO READ | 'We cannot escape': Shanghai hospital warns staff of 'tragic battle' against Covid The minutes of the meeting did not note a discussion on deaths due to the virus. However, the minutes cited the commission's head Ma Xiaowei who reiterated the new criteria used for identifying Covid deaths that have prompted criticism from many disease experts. Acknowledging that deaths will inevitably occur when Covid spreads rapidly, Xiaowei underscored that only people who died from Covid-induced Pneumonia should be included in mortality statistics. The government, meanwhile, has also stopped publishing the daily number of asymptomatic cases. Didn't receive data from China on new Covid hospitalisations: WHO Since the Chinese government lifted the Zero-Covid policy, the World Health Organization (WHO) has not received new data from the country on virus hospitalisations. The absence of data has prompted experts to question whether China might be hiding information on the pandemic. WHO's weekly reports showed a surge in hospitalisations up to the government's December 7 decision to ease restrictions on movement, Reuters reported on Friday. However, the figures are not present in the last two reports. China requisitions medical supplies production across nation Amid a shortage of life-saving medicines and testing kits in China, the government has requisitioned medical supplies production. Over a dozen Chinese pharmaceutical companies have been tapped by officials to help secure the supply of key medicines, AFP reported on Friday. On the other hand, At least 11 of the 42 testing kit makers- whose products are licensed by the country's medical regulators had their part of production seized by the government. ALSO READ | Covid spike in China causes citizens to turn to black market for medicines The development comes after ordinary citizens have been turning to the black market to secure medicines such as Pfizer's Paxlovid. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Leaked documents show nearly 250 million Chinese contracted Covid in December

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<p>A US federal appeals court on Friday, protecting the rights of Sikhs ruled that US Marine Corps must allow the Sikh recruits to maintain religious beards and wear turbans while serving the country, citing the current rule as a&nbsp;violation of the Religious Freedom Restoration Act (RFRA).&nbsp;</p>

<p>The court's three-judge bench observed that the Marine Corps could never really explain why it can't provide similar religious accommodations that other military branches such as the US Army, Navy, Air Force and Coast Guard already provide.</p>

<p>"If the need to develop unit cohesion during recruit training can accommodate some external indicia of individuality, then whatever line is drawn cannot turn on whether those indicia are prevalent in society or instead reflect the faith practice of a minority," read the decision written by the court.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Notably, the US Army, Air Force, Navy and Coast Guard accommodate the religious requirements of the Sikh recruits.</p>

<p>The court was hearing the case pertaining to three Sikh men named&nbsp;Aekash Singh, Jaskirat Singh&nbsp;and Milaap Singh Chahal who passed tests to enlist in the US Marine&nbsp;last year.</p>

<p>However, since then, the three have been forced to fight the lawsuits as the Marines argue that recruits need to be stripped of their 'individuality'. The Marines also argue that the rules are necessary to maintain uniformity for national interest.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sikh-american-airman-allowed-by-us-air-force-to-keep-turban-beard-on-active-duty-225290" target="_blank"><strong>Read more: Sikh-American airman allowed by US Air Force to keep turban, beard on active duty</strong></a></p>

<p>The court, in response, said US Marines is part of Navy and that officers train at the Naval Academy. The Academy accommodates beards and wearing of the religious articles.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It added that even the US Marines allowed men with specific skin conditions to not shave and that women recruits maintained hairstyles.</p>

<p>After the ruling, Eric Baxter, representing the plaintiffs took to Twitter and said,&nbsp;"Today’s ruling is a major victory for these Sikh recruits, who can now begin basic training without having to forfeit their religious beliefs."</p>

<p>“It is also a victory for our nation, as three brave and dedicated men will soon serve our nation with valor in the Marine Corps.”&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">A federal court has just ruled that Sikhs can maintain their religious beards while serving their country in the U.S. Marine Corps. Now, three Sikh recruits, who had previously been denied religious accommodations, can enter basic training. <a href="https://t.co/BzmkpcsAOm">https://t.co/BzmkpcsAOm</a></p>
— Eric Baxter (@esbax) <a href="https://twitter.com/esbax/status/1606349223263232000?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 23, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>Those following Sikhism, especially the men are forbidden from cutting their locks or trimming their beards, all the while wearing a turban.&nbsp;They are also instructed to carry a kanga (wooden comb), kirpan (small sword), kara (steel bracelet), and a white cotton undergarment (kachera).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sikhs throughout the world have served in militaries in different capacities. Their valour and courage are well-documented and they have performed admirably as their peers, even whilst carrying their religious articles.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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A US federal appeals court on Friday, protecting the rights of Sikhs ruled that US Marine Corps must allow the Sikh recruits to maintain religious beards and wear turbans while serving the country, citing the current rule as a violation of the Religious Freedom Restoration Act (RFRA).

A US federal appeals court on Friday, protecting the rights of Sikhs ruled that US Marine Corps must allow the Sikh recruits to maintain religious beards and wear turbans while serving the country, citing the current rule as a violation of the Religious Freedom Restoration Act (RFRA). The court's three-judge bench observed that the Marine Corps could never really explain why it can't provide similar religious accommodations that other military branches such as the US Army, Navy, Air Force and Coast Guard already provide. "If the need to develop unit cohesion during recruit training can accommodate some external indicia of individuality, then whatever line is drawn cannot turn on whether those indicia are prevalent in society or instead reflect the faith practice of a minority," read the decision written by the court. Notably, the US Army, Air Force, Navy and Coast Guard accommodate the religious requirements of the Sikh recruits. The court was hearing the case pertaining to three Sikh men named Aekash Singh, Jaskirat Singh and Milaap Singh Chahal who passed tests to enlist in the US Marine last year. However, since then, the three have been forced to fight the lawsuits as the Marines argue that recruits need to be stripped of their 'individuality'. The Marines also argue that the rules are necessary to maintain uniformity for national interest. Read more: Sikh-American airman allowed by US Air Force to keep turban, beard on active duty The court, in response, said US Marines is part of Navy and that officers train at the Naval Academy. The Academy accommodates beards and wearing of the religious articles. It added that even the US Marines allowed men with specific skin conditions to not shave and that women recruits maintained hairstyles. After the ruling, Eric Baxter, representing the plaintiffs took to Twitter and said, "Today’s ruling is a major victory for these Sikh recruits, who can now begin basic training without having to forfeit their religious beliefs." “It is also a victory for our nation, as three brave and dedicated men will soon serve our nation with valor in the Marine Corps.” A federal court has just ruled that Sikhs can maintain their religious beards while serving their country in the U.S. Marine Corps. Now, three Sikh recruits, who had previously been denied religious accommodations, can enter basic training. https://t.co/BzmkpcsAOm — Eric Baxter (@esbax) December 23, 2022 × Those following Sikhism, especially the men are forbidden from cutting their locks or trimming their beards, all the while wearing a turban. They are also instructed to carry a kanga (wooden comb), kirpan (small sword), kara (steel bracelet), and a white cotton undergarment (kachera). Sikhs throughout the world have served in militaries in different capacities. Their valour and courage are well-documented and they have performed admirably as their peers, even whilst carrying their religious articles. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

US court directs Marines to allow Sikh recruits with beards and turbans

<p>A 19-year-old male&nbsp;was killed in a shooting at the Mall of America in Bloomington, Minnesota on Friday night, police said. The shooting happened around 8 pm, two days before Christmas, amid a busy shopping day, said police.&nbsp;Cops have described the victim as a 19-year-old African American male. Reports say that the bullet hit him directly, and he died at the scene of the shooting.</p>

<p>The altercation, which took place between two groups of between five and nine people, was&nbsp; recorded by the security cameras in the mall. During the tussle, a male suddenly pulled out a gun and fired multiple shots at the victim.<br />
Officials of the Bloomington Police Department confirmed that CCTV footage&nbsp;shows the shooting spiralled from a quarrel between two groups of men. During a press conference two hours after the shooting, Booker Hodges, Bloomington Police Chief, asked the suspects responsible for the shooting to turn themselves in.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ|&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/two-killed-and-four-injured-after-shooting-in-central-paris-suspect-arrested-546049">Three killed and three injured in shooting at central Paris, suspect arrested</a></p>

<p>Reports say that one bullet also grazed a woman's shirt. However, not many details are available about her. The police responded with a heavy presence after the initial reports of the shooting. They also put the mall under lockdown for further investigation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>all of America's official Twitter account tweeted, "Mall of America is now lifting lockdown. Guests should now exit the property. Mall of America remains closed for the evening." Officials mentioned that the Nordstrom store would remain closed on Saturday, but the public could access other stores and places on the premises.&nbsp;</p>

<p>EMS personnel and police officials from the Bloomington Department remained on the scene for several hours. They have advised people to stay away from the area.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH|&nbsp;Pakistan Suicide Blast: 1 policeman dead, 4 injured in attack; TTP claims responsibility</strong></p>

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<p>At the time of the shooting, 16 police personnel were at the scene, and there was an officer in the adjacent store to Nordstrom, reports said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier in August 2022, another shooting had occurred at the Mall of America. Furthermore, cops responded to another open fire at the same mall in December 2021.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In both shootings, the suspects were young adults between 18 and 23 years, reports said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>


A 19-year-old male was killed in a shooting at the Mall of America in Bloomington, Minnesota on Friday night, police said. The shooting happened around 8 pm, two days before Christmas, amid a busy shopping day, said police.

A 19-year-old male was killed in a shooting at the Mall of America in Bloomington, Minnesota on Friday night, police said. The shooting happened around 8 pm, two days before Christmas, amid a busy shopping day, said police. Cops have described the victim as a 19-year-old African American male. Reports say that the bullet hit him directly, and he died at the scene of the shooting. The altercation, which took place between two groups of between five and nine people, was recorded by the security cameras in the mall. During the tussle, a male suddenly pulled out a gun and fired multiple shots at the victim. Officials of the Bloomington Police Department confirmed that CCTV footage shows the shooting spiralled from a quarrel between two groups of men. During a press conference two hours after the shooting, Booker Hodges, Bloomington Police Chief, asked the suspects responsible for the shooting to turn themselves in. ALSO READ| Three killed and three injured in shooting at central Paris, suspect arrested Reports say that one bullet also grazed a woman's shirt. However, not many details are available about her. The police responded with a heavy presence after the initial reports of the shooting. They also put the mall under lockdown for further investigation. all of America's official Twitter account tweeted, "Mall of America is now lifting lockdown. Guests should now exit the property. Mall of America remains closed for the evening." Officials mentioned that the Nordstrom store would remain closed on Saturday, but the public could access other stores and places on the premises. EMS personnel and police officials from the Bloomington Department remained on the scene for several hours. They have advised people to stay away from the area. WATCH| Pakistan Suicide Blast: 1 policeman dead, 4 injured in attack; TTP claims responsibility At the time of the shooting, 16 police personnel were at the scene, and there was an officer in the adjacent store to Nordstrom, reports said. Earlier in August 2022, another shooting had occurred at the Mall of America. Furthermore, cops responded to another open fire at the same mall in December 2021. In both shootings, the suspects were young adults between 18 and 23 years, reports said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

US: Teen killed in shooting after group clash at Mall of America in Minnesota, cops hunt for suspects

<p>Afghanistan's men have also joined the protest against the Taliban's decision to ban women from pursuing higher education. Male students at Afghanistan's Nangarhar University walked out of their exams in solidarity with their female peers. Videos of universities stopping female students from entering classrooms have taken over the internet.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Male university students have walked out of their exam in protest against Taliban’s decision to BAN female students from university education.<br />
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Several male professors have also resigned so far.<br />
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This must happen across the country NOW!<a href="https://t.co/kvvsQdchSu">pic.twitter.com/kvvsQdchSu</a></p>
— Shabnam Nasimi (@NasimiShabnam) <a href="https://twitter.com/NasimiShabnam/status/1605484208276717569?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 21, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>To join the protest, the university's male professors have also resigned. Obaidullah Wardak, a professor who served at Kabul University for 10 years, has resigned from his post.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On Tuesday, the Taliban's higher education ministry declared that Afghanistan's women would not be allowed to pursue education with immediate effect. The decision enraged students from universities across Afghanistan.</p>

<p>Women across Afghanistan are protesting on the streets against the decision. A group of female students from Kabul University marched outside the institution, chanting 'either everyone or no one.'&nbsp;</p>

<p>In Kandahar, a university denied their female students to sit for their final examinations.&nbsp;Furthermore, universities in Afghanistan have forcefully dismissed female students from their dormitories. Footages also show women being escorted out of the classroom while male students write their examinations.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">In Kandahar, girls are devastated as they are not allowed to participate in university exams while boys sit in the classroom. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LetHerLearn?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LetHerLearn</a> <a href="https://t.co/KWWSzF54Jv">pic.twitter.com/KWWSzF54Jv</a></p>
— Habib Khan (@HabibKhanT) <a href="https://twitter.com/HabibKhanT/status/1605465329269972992?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 21, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>Taliban has banned women from travelling without a male relative or entering gyms and parks.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Taliban's barbaric and backward policies have drawn global attention. Afghans have launched a Twitter campaign with the hashtag #letherlearn. People across the world have made thousands of tweets in support of Afghanistan's women.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Habib Khan, the founder of Afghan Peace Watch, shared a video and tweeted, "Extremely sad and distressing to see these girls cry as they hear that they will no longer be able to continue their studies at the university. Stand with these women and girls of Afghanistan against the Taliban."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">In Kandahar, girls are devastated as they are not allowed to participate in university exams while boys sit in the classroom. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LetHerLearn?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LetHerLearn</a> <a href="https://t.co/KWWSzF54Jv">pic.twitter.com/KWWSzF54Jv</a></p>
— Habib Khan (@HabibKhanT) <a href="https://twitter.com/HabibKhanT/status/1605465329269972992?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 21, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>Rashid Khan, former captain of Afghanistan's cricket team, tweeted, "Acquiring knowledge is a must. There is no doubt that women make up half of society."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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Afghanistan's men have also joined the protest against the Taliban's decision to ban women from pursuing higher education. Male students at Afghanistan's Nangarhar University walked out of their exams in solidarity with their female peers.

Afghanistan's men have also joined the protest against the Taliban's decision to ban women from pursuing higher education. Male students at Afghanistan's Nangarhar University walked out of their exams in solidarity with their female peers. Videos of universities stopping female students from entering classrooms have taken over the internet. Male university students have walked out of their exam in protest against Taliban’s decision to BAN female students from university education. Several male professors have also resigned so far. This must happen across the country NOW!pic.twitter.com/kvvsQdchSu — Shabnam Nasimi (@NasimiShabnam) December 21, 2022 × To join the protest, the university's male professors have also resigned. Obaidullah Wardak, a professor who served at Kabul University for 10 years, has resigned from his post. On Tuesday, the Taliban's higher education ministry declared that Afghanistan's women would not be allowed to pursue education with immediate effect. The decision enraged students from universities across Afghanistan. Women across Afghanistan are protesting on the streets against the decision. A group of female students from Kabul University marched outside the institution, chanting 'either everyone or no one.' In Kandahar, a university denied their female students to sit for their final examinations. Furthermore, universities in Afghanistan have forcefully dismissed female students from their dormitories. Footages also show women being escorted out of the classroom while male students write their examinations. In Kandahar, girls are devastated as they are not allowed to participate in university exams while boys sit in the classroom. #LetHerLearn pic.twitter.com/KWWSzF54Jv — Habib Khan (@HabibKhanT) December 21, 2022 × Taliban has banned women from travelling without a male relative or entering gyms and parks. Taliban's barbaric and backward policies have drawn global attention. Afghans have launched a Twitter campaign with the hashtag #letherlearn. People across the world have made thousands of tweets in support of Afghanistan's women. Habib Khan, the founder of Afghan Peace Watch, shared a video and tweeted, "Extremely sad and distressing to see these girls cry as they hear that they will no longer be able to continue their studies at the university. Stand with these women and girls of Afghanistan against the Taliban." In Kandahar, girls are devastated as they are not allowed to participate in university exams while boys sit in the classroom. #LetHerLearn pic.twitter.com/KWWSzF54Jv — Habib Khan (@HabibKhanT) December 21, 2022 × Rashid Khan, former captain of Afghanistan's cricket team, tweeted, "Acquiring knowledge is a must. There is no doubt that women make up half of society." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

WATCH| Male students walk out of exam halls as Taliban ban university education for Afghan women

<p>Ajay Ogula, a Dubai-based cab driver from India, won a prize worth $4 million in the Emirates lottery draw. Ogula was shocked that he had won the lottery, Khaleej Times reported. He said, "I cannot believe I hit the jackpot."</p>

<p>Ajay&nbsp;comes from a humble village in southern India. He moved to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) four years ago in search of more opportunities. Currently, he is a driver for a jewellery business in Dubai and earns around $800 every month.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ|</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/week-after-3-million-lottery-win-keralite-says-hes-surrounded-by-people-asking-for-money-519832">Week after $3 million lottery win, Indian man says he's surrounded by people asking for money</a></p>

<p>However, Ogula is well-intentioned and wishes to use the amount to aid his village people with primary necessities. He mentioned, "I will continue building my charity trust with this money. It will help many people in my hometown and neighbouring villages."</p>

<p>Back in India, Ajay's family, including his mother and siblings, did not believe that he had won the lottery and had become a millionaire. However, he continued, "They will have to believe me now as I will be in the news."</p>

<p>Paula Leech, a 50-year-old British national, won $21,000 in the same draw as Ajay Ogula. She has worked as a human resource professional in the UAE for 14 years and is a mother of three.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ|&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mondays-drawing-of-record-breaking-19-bn-powerball-lottery-in-us-delayed-due-to-security-protocols-532216">US: Winning numbers for record-breaking $2.04 bn Powerball lottery drawn after delay</a></p>

<p>Not all cases are like that Ajay's. A few cases of lottery jackpots in India have had their downsides. Earlier in September, an Indian man named Siddharth from Kerala&nbsp;won around $3 million in a lottery draw. However, before he received any lottery money, the man found himself surrounded by people who wanted to borrow money from him. Things got worse so much that&nbsp;he could not step out of his house.</p>

<p>On the other hand, Laura Spears, a US woman, found a $3 million lottery ticket in her spam email folder. Shocked, Spears said it was 'hard to believe.'</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>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Ajay Ogula, a Dubai-based cab driver from India, won a prize worth $4 million in the Emirates lottery draw. Ogula was shocked that he had won the lottery, Khaleej Times reported.

Ajay Ogula, a Dubai-based cab driver from India, won a prize worth $4 million in the Emirates lottery draw. Ogula was shocked that he had won the lottery, Khaleej Times reported. He said, "I cannot believe I hit the jackpot." Ajay comes from a humble village in southern India. He moved to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) four years ago in search of more opportunities. Currently, he is a driver for a jewellery business in Dubai and earns around $800 every month. ALSO READ| Week after $3 million lottery win, Indian man says he's surrounded by people asking for money However, Ogula is well-intentioned and wishes to use the amount to aid his village people with primary necessities. He mentioned, "I will continue building my charity trust with this money. It will help many people in my hometown and neighbouring villages." Back in India, Ajay's family, including his mother and siblings, did not believe that he had won the lottery and had become a millionaire. However, he continued, "They will have to believe me now as I will be in the news." Paula Leech, a 50-year-old British national, won $21,000 in the same draw as Ajay Ogula. She has worked as a human resource professional in the UAE for 14 years and is a mother of three. ALSO READ| US: Winning numbers for record-breaking $2.04 bn Powerball lottery drawn after delay Not all cases are like that Ajay's. A few cases of lottery jackpots in India have had their downsides. Earlier in September, an Indian man named Siddharth from Kerala won around $3 million in a lottery draw. However, before he received any lottery money, the man found himself surrounded by people who wanted to borrow money from him. Things got worse so much that he could not step out of his house. On the other hand, Laura Spears, a US woman, found a $3 million lottery ticket in her spam email folder. Shocked, Spears said it was 'hard to believe.' (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Dubai-based Indian driver hits $4 million jackpot in lottery draw

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<p>A new survey conducted by the Canadian government has found that polar bears in the country's Western Hudson Bay, are dying at alarming rates.&nbsp;The researchers aerially surveyed the Bay and its nearby town of Churchill also referred to as the 'Bear capital of the World' in 2021 and found there were 618 bears only, compared to 842, five years ago when last counted.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The survey added that a significant decline has been noted in the population of adult female bears and cubs between 2011 and 2021.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The observed declines are consistent with long-standing predictions regarding the demographic effects of climate change on polar bears," said the researchers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The fall in the number of bears in the region has been ongoing for decades. Since the 1980s the polar bear population has decreased by nearly 50 per cent which stood around 1,200 at the time.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/receding-ice-poses-threat-to-polar-bears-norwegian-polar-institute-raises-alarm-476907" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH | Receding ice poses threat to Polar Bears, Norwegian Polar institute raises alarm</strong></a></p>

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<p>The survey cited hunting and displacement of bears to neighbouring regions as the other factors responsible for the number decline. However, the biggest reason for the rapid decline in the polar bear's population is the melting of ice in the far north.</p>

<p>Scientists have stated that the sea ice in the far north is warming four times faster, compared to the rest of the world.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/polar-bears-return-to-pacific-arctic-for-first-time-in-20-years-423062" target="_blank"><strong>Read more: Polar bears return to Pacific Arctic for first time in 20 years</strong></a></p>

<p>The polar bear is an endangered animal. They face an existential threat from the rapid decline of Arctic sea ice, which they rely on as platforms to hunt seals.&nbsp;</p>

<p>To keep their habitat alive, the Paris accord aims to keep average global temperatures from rising above two degrees Celsius. Reports have suggested that the Arctic sea ice would certainly not melt if the temperature rise was limited to 1.5C.</p>

<p>However, with most Western nations unwilling to commit to their promises, the temperature may continue to rise, rendering the habitat of these majestic creatures unhabitable.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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A new survey conducted by the Canadian government has found that polar bears in the country's Western Hudson Bay, are dying at alarming rates. The researchers aerially surveyed the Bay and its nearby town of Churchill also referred to as the 'Bear capital of the World' in 2021 and found there were 618 bears only, compared to 842, five years ago when last counted.

A new survey conducted by the Canadian government has found that polar bears in the country's Western Hudson Bay, are dying at alarming rates. The researchers aerially surveyed the Bay and its nearby town of Churchill also referred to as the 'Bear capital of the World' in 2021 and found there were 618 bears only, compared to 842, five years ago when last counted. The survey added that a significant decline has been noted in the population of adult female bears and cubs between 2011 and 2021. "The observed declines are consistent with long-standing predictions regarding the demographic effects of climate change on polar bears," said the researchers. The fall in the number of bears in the region has been ongoing for decades. Since the 1980s the polar bear population has decreased by nearly 50 per cent which stood around 1,200 at the time. WATCH | Receding ice poses threat to Polar Bears, Norwegian Polar institute raises alarm × The survey cited hunting and displacement of bears to neighbouring regions as the other factors responsible for the number decline. However, the biggest reason for the rapid decline in the polar bear's population is the melting of ice in the far north. Scientists have stated that the sea ice in the far north is warming four times faster, compared to the rest of the world. Read more: Polar bears return to Pacific Arctic for first time in 20 years The polar bear is an endangered animal. They face an existential threat from the rapid decline of Arctic sea ice, which they rely on as platforms to hunt seals. To keep their habitat alive, the Paris accord aims to keep average global temperatures from rising above two degrees Celsius. Reports have suggested that the Arctic sea ice would certainly not melt if the temperature rise was limited to 1.5C. However, with most Western nations unwilling to commit to their promises, the temperature may continue to rise, rendering the habitat of these majestic creatures unhabitable. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Polar bear population dwindling at alarming rate in Canada: Report

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<p>A video of sports reporter in the US has gone viral on social media platforms after he went on a lengthy rant when asked to cover the extreme weather conditions, currently prevailing across the USA.&nbsp;Mark Woodley, a journalist who usually covers sports for KWWL news channel in Waterloo, Iowa was sent out to cover the snowstorm.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While most would have put their brave face on and reported on the event, the bone-freezing conditions appear to have made Woodley, a little bit cranky. Safe to say, the reporter did not want to work on a chilly Thursday morning.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Wearing winter gear and standing in the middle of an Arctic blitz, Woodley had a grimace on his face from the beginning. When the studio anchor asked Woodley how he was doing, the sports anchor had a rather amusing answer to it.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Again, the same way I felt when you asked me this question eight minutes ago," said Woodley.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I usually do sports, but everything here is canceled for the next couple days, so what better time to ask the sports guy to come in about five hours earlier than he would normally wake up, go stand out in the wind and the snow and the cold and tell other people not to do the same," added the annoyed journalist.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The quotable quips continued to roll out as&nbsp;Woodley said he had both good and bad news with him during the reporting.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;"I've got good news and I've got bad news. The good news is that I can still feel my face. The bad news is I kind of wish I couldn't."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">This is what you get when you ask the sports guy to come in to cover a blizzard in the morning show. <a href="https://t.co/h0RL9tVQqg">pic.twitter.com/h0RL9tVQqg</a></p>
— Mark Woodley (@MarkWoodleyTV) <a href="https://twitter.com/MarkWoodleyTV/status/1605961457337712640?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 22, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>"This is a really long show. Tune in for the next couple hours to watch me progressively get crankier and crankier."</p>

<p>Despite his obvious irritation at being asked to report from the field, Woodley managed to complete the shift. However, as the sun was coming up, Woodley jokingly requested to have his old job back.</p>

<p>“Can I go back to my regular job? I’m pretty sure, Ryan, you guys added an extra hour to the show just because somebody likes torturing me. Compared to two and a half hours ago, it is just getting colder and colder.”</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-more-than-4400-flights-cancelled-on-friday-as-travellers-face-harrowing-christmas-week-546192" target="_blank"><strong>Read more: US: More than 4,400 flights cancelled on Friday as travellers face harrowing Christmas week</strong></a></p>

<p>Extreme weather across the country disrupted the power lines of more than 1.25 million homes and businesses across the southern and eastern US on Friday morning.</p>

<p>The largest power outage was in North Carolina, where more than 150,000 people were without power. Latest reports have suggested that 12 people have died due to the bomb cyclone.&nbsp;&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;</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 video of sports reporter in the US has gone viral on social media platforms after he went on a lengthy rant when asked to cover the extreme weather conditions, currently prevailing across the USA.

A video of sports reporter in the US has gone viral on social media platforms after he went on a lengthy rant when asked to cover the extreme weather conditions, currently prevailing across the USA. Mark Woodley, a journalist who usually covers sports for KWWL news channel in Waterloo, Iowa was sent out to cover the snowstorm. While most would have put their brave face on and reported on the event, the bone-freezing conditions appear to have made Woodley, a little bit cranky. Safe to say, the reporter did not want to work on a chilly Thursday morning. Wearing winter gear and standing in the middle of an Arctic blitz, Woodley had a grimace on his face from the beginning. When the studio anchor asked Woodley how he was doing, the sports anchor had a rather amusing answer to it. "Again, the same way I felt when you asked me this question eight minutes ago," said Woodley. "I usually do sports, but everything here is canceled for the next couple days, so what better time to ask the sports guy to come in about five hours earlier than he would normally wake up, go stand out in the wind and the snow and the cold and tell other people not to do the same," added the annoyed journalist. The quotable quips continued to roll out as Woodley said he had both good and bad news with him during the reporting. "I've got good news and I've got bad news. The good news is that I can still feel my face. The bad news is I kind of wish I couldn't." This is what you get when you ask the sports guy to come in to cover a blizzard in the morning show. pic.twitter.com/h0RL9tVQqg — Mark Woodley (@MarkWoodleyTV) December 22, 2022 × "This is a really long show. Tune in for the next couple hours to watch me progressively get crankier and crankier." Despite his obvious irritation at being asked to report from the field, Woodley managed to complete the shift. However, as the sun was coming up, Woodley jokingly requested to have his old job back. “Can I go back to my regular job? I’m pretty sure, Ryan, you guys added an extra hour to the show just because somebody likes torturing me. Compared to two and a half hours ago, it is just getting colder and colder.” Read more: US: More than 4,400 flights cancelled on Friday as travellers face harrowing Christmas week Extreme weather across the country disrupted the power lines of more than 1.25 million homes and businesses across the southern and eastern US on Friday morning. The largest power outage was in North Carolina, where more than 150,000 people were without power. Latest reports have suggested that 12 people have died due to the bomb cyclone. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Hilarious and painful: WATCH this sports reporter complain about being sent out to cover US snowstorm

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