Egypt and Jordan have refused to take refugees from Palestine even as both blamed Israel for the attacks on a Gaza hospital that left around 500 dead as per Hamas health ministry claims.

Thousands of Palestinians are currently stuck at the Rafah crossing at the border of Egypt, the only access to the besieged territory not controlled by Israel. As Israel's retaliatory strikes continue to pummel northern Gaza, many Palestinians have moved south of the region and are trying to cross to Egypt.

The border was closed down on October 10 after it was allegedly hit by Israeli warplanes on the Palestinian side three times.

Following a meeting with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz in Berlin, Jordan King Abdullah II on Tuesday categorically said that neither Egypt nor Jordan would take in an influx of Palestinian refugees. &nbsp;

<h2>'This is a red line'</h2>

Addressing reporters in Berlin on Tuesday, King Abdullah II said, “This is a red line ... no refugees to Jordan and also no refugees to Egypt.”

“This is a situation that has to be handled within Gaza and the West Bank,” he said. “And you don’t have to carry this out on the shoulders of others.”

Abdullah stressed that there is an urgent need to temper down the escalation of the conflict between Israel and the Palestinians.

“The whole region is on the brink,” Abdullah said. “This new cycle of violence is leading us towards the abyss,” the Jordanian Monarch added.

"All our efforts are needed to make sure we don't get there," he said.

<h2>Egypt's president&nbsp;agrees with Jordan's king</h2>

Echoing similar views, President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi reasoned why they can't let Palestinians in.

"The displacement of Palestinians from Gaza to Egypt means the same displacement will take place for Palestinians from the West Bank into Jordan," Sisi warned.

"Subsequently, the Palestinian state that we are talking about and that the world is talking about will become impossible to implement -- because the land is there, but the people are not. Therefore, I warn of the danger of this matter."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-supports-israels-report-on-gaza-hospital-strike-condemns-hamas-648337">Gaza hospital strike 'done by other team', Biden tells Netanyahu during Israel trip</a>

Sisi said Egypt "did not close" the crossing, but that "developments on the ground and the repeated bombings by Israel of the Palestinian side of the crossing have prevented its operation".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/un-sanctions-prohibiting-iran-from-trading-missiles-and-drones-expire-648405">UN sanctions prohibiting Iran from trading missiles and drones expire</a>

Hundreds of lorries carrying aid have been waiting for six days on the Egyptian side of the crossing, which Israeli aircraft has bombed four times.

Scholz told reporters Berlin and Cairo "are working together to get humanitarian access to the Gaza Strip as quickly as possible."

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Egypt and Jordan have refused to take refugees from Palestine even as both blamed Israel for the attacks on a Gaza hospital that left around 500 dead as per Hamas health ministry claims.

Egypt and Jordan have refused to take refugees from Palestine even as both blamed Israel for the attacks on a Gaza hospital that left around 500 dead as per Hamas health ministry claims. Thousands of Palestinians are currently stuck at the Rafah crossing at the border of Egypt, the only access to the besieged territory not controlled by Israel. As Israel's retaliatory strikes continue to pummel northern Gaza, many Palestinians have moved south of the region and are trying to cross to Egypt. The border was closed down on October 10 after it was allegedly hit by Israeli warplanes on the Palestinian side three times. Following a meeting with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz in Berlin, Jordan King Abdullah II on Tuesday categorically said that neither Egypt nor Jordan would take in an influx of Palestinian refugees. 'This is a red line' Addressing reporters in Berlin on Tuesday, King Abdullah II said, “This is a red line ... no refugees to Jordan and also no refugees to Egypt.” “This is a situation that has to be handled within Gaza and the West Bank,” he said. “And you don’t have to carry this out on the shoulders of others.” Abdullah stressed that there is an urgent need to temper down the escalation of the conflict between Israel and the Palestinians. “The whole region is on the brink,” Abdullah said. “This new cycle of violence is leading us towards the abyss,” the Jordanian Monarch added. "All our efforts are needed to make sure we don't get there," he said. Egypt's president agrees with Jordan's king Echoing similar views, President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi reasoned why they can't let Palestinians in. "The displacement of Palestinians from Gaza to Egypt means the same displacement will take place for Palestinians from the West Bank into Jordan," Sisi warned. "Subsequently, the Palestinian state that we are talking about and that the world is talking about will become impossible to implement -- because the land is there, but the people are not. Therefore, I warn of the danger of this matter." Also read | Gaza hospital strike 'done by other team', Biden tells Netanyahu during Israel trip Sisi said Egypt "did not close" the crossing, but that "developments on the ground and the repeated bombings by Israel of the Palestinian side of the crossing have prevented its operation". Also read | UN sanctions prohibiting Iran from trading missiles and drones expire Hundreds of lorries carrying aid have been waiting for six days on the Egyptian side of the crossing, which Israeli aircraft has bombed four times. Scholz told reporters Berlin and Cairo "are working together to get humanitarian access to the Gaza Strip as quickly as possible." WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Jordan and Egypt refuse to accept Palestinian refugees as Israel continues retaliatory strikes

The Gaza health ministry has claimed that at least 500 Palestinians were killed after Israeli airstrikes attacked a hospital in the city.

On Tuesday (Oct 17), the Gaza health ministry claimed that Israeli warplanes bombed the Ahli Baptist Hospital which was treating hundreds of wounded and sheltering other Palestinians, AP news agency reported.&nbsp;The hospital is run by the Episcopal Diocese of Jerusalem.

"Hundreds of victims are still under the rubble," a statement said, calling it a "war crime".

The Israeli military said that it was looking into the claims. "We will look into it... the strike happened just a short while ago," Israeli military spokesman Daniel Hagari told a televised press briefing.

Later, the Israel&nbsp;Defense Forces (IDF)&nbsp;clarified that a&nbsp;rocket barrage was fired at Israel&nbsp;from the vicinity of the hospital&nbsp;at the time it was hit. "According to intelligence information, the Islamic Jihad sent the failed rocket such that it hit their own hospital," the IDF spokesperson said.

Earlier, Israel-based i24News outlet also claimed that an initial investigation done by the Israeli Defense Force found that the explosion at the&nbsp;hospital in Gaza was caused by a failed Hamas rocket launch. However, an official confirmation is awaited.

The incident occurred hours after the United Nations agency supporting Palestinian refugees claimed that six people were killed when one of its schools sheltering displaced families was hit during Israeli air strikes.

UNRWA commissioner-general Philippe Lazzarini called the bombing at Al-Maghazi refugee camp, also in central Gaza, "outrageous" and warned the death count would likely rise.

"It again shows a flagrant disregard for the lives of civilians. No place is safe in Gaza anymore, not even UNRWA facilities," he added.

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Israeli warplanes bombed Al-Ahli Arab hospital (Baptist Hospital) in the center of Gaza City, resulting in the martyrdom of hundreds of Palestinians, including children and women. 
 
الطائرات الحربية الإسرائيلية تقصف المستشفى الأهلي العربي (المستشفى المعمداني) وسط مدينة غزة، ما أدى… <a href="https://t.co/ioVAyWRfvn">pic.twitter.com/ioVAyWRfvn</a>
— State of Palestine - MFA 🇵🇸🇵🇸 (@pmofa) <a href="https://twitter.com/pmofa/status/1714340122420756889?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 17, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Palestine president declares three-day mourning&nbsp;</h2>

Describing the attack&nbsp;as a "hospital massacre",&nbsp;Palestinian President Mahmud Abbas declared three days of mourning and said that flags would be flown at half-mast for "the martyrs of the Baptist hospital massacre and all our people's martyrs", the official Palestinian news agency&nbsp;Wafa&nbsp;said.

The attacks come on the eve of US President Joe Biden's visit to Israel on Tuesday (Oct 17) evening where he is expected to meet Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for talks amidst escalating conflict with Hamas.

<h2>Egypt blames Israel&nbsp;</h2>

Egypt’s foreign ministry strongly condemned&nbsp;the incident saying that it considers this “deliberate bombing of civilians to be a serious violation of international, humanitarian law and of the most basic values of humanity.”

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-vs-hamas-us-military-readies-2000-troops-for-potential-middle-east-deployment-as-war-escalates-648105">Israel-Hamas war: US military readies 2,000 troops for Middle East deployment</a>

Cairo further held Israel responsible for the bombing of the Ahli Baptist Hospital in Gaza City that killed at least 500 people.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-senior-hamas-commander-ayman-nofal-killed-in-air-strike-in-gaza-648110">Israel-Hamas war: Senior Hamas commander Ayman Nofal killed in Gaza air strike</a>

“Egypt called on Israel to immediately stop its policies of collective punishment against the people in the Gaza Strip,” the Egyptian foreign ministry statement adds.

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

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The Gaza health ministry has claimed that at least 500 Palestinians were killed after Israeli airstrikes attacked a hospital in the city. On Tuesday (Oct 17), the Gaza health ministry claimed that Israeli warplanes bombed the Ahli Baptist Hospital which was treating hundreds of wounded and sheltering other Palestinians, AP news agency reported.

The Gaza health ministry has claimed that at least 500 Palestinians were killed after Israeli airstrikes attacked a hospital in the city. On Tuesday (Oct 17), the Gaza health ministry claimed that Israeli warplanes bombed the Ahli Baptist Hospital which was treating hundreds of wounded and sheltering other Palestinians, AP news agency reported. The hospital is run by the Episcopal Diocese of Jerusalem. "Hundreds of victims are still under the rubble," a statement said, calling it a "war crime". The Israeli military said that it was looking into the claims. "We will look into it... the strike happened just a short while ago," Israeli military spokesman Daniel Hagari told a televised press briefing. Later, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) clarified that a rocket barrage was fired at Israel from the vicinity of the hospital at the time it was hit. "According to intelligence information, the Islamic Jihad sent the failed rocket such that it hit their own hospital," the IDF spokesperson said. Earlier, Israel-based i24News outlet also claimed that an initial investigation done by the Israeli Defense Force found that the explosion at the hospital in Gaza was caused by a failed Hamas rocket launch. However, an official confirmation is awaited. The incident occurred hours after the United Nations agency supporting Palestinian refugees claimed that six people were killed when one of its schools sheltering displaced families was hit during Israeli air strikes. UNRWA commissioner-general Philippe Lazzarini called the bombing at Al-Maghazi refugee camp, also in central Gaza, "outrageous" and warned the death count would likely rise. "It again shows a flagrant disregard for the lives of civilians. No place is safe in Gaza anymore, not even UNRWA facilities," he added. Israeli warplanes bombed Al-Ahli Arab hospital (Baptist Hospital) in the center of Gaza City, resulting in the martyrdom of hundreds of Palestinians, including children and women. الطائرات الحربية الإسرائيلية تقصف المستشفى الأهلي العربي (المستشفى المعمداني) وسط مدينة غزة، ما أدى… pic.twitter.com/ioVAyWRfvn — State of Palestine - MFA 🇵🇸🇵🇸 (@pmofa) October 17, 2023 × Palestine president declares three-day mourning Describing the attack as a "hospital massacre", Palestinian President Mahmud Abbas declared three days of mourning and said that flags would be flown at half-mast for "the martyrs of the Baptist hospital massacre and all our people's martyrs", the official Palestinian news agency Wafa said. The attacks come on the eve of US President Joe Biden's visit to Israel on Tuesday (Oct 17) evening where he is expected to meet Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for talks amidst escalating conflict with Hamas. Egypt blames Israel Egypt’s foreign ministry strongly condemned the incident saying that it considers this “deliberate bombing of civilians to be a serious violation of international, humanitarian law and of the most basic values of humanity.” Also read | Israel-Hamas war: US military readies 2,000 troops for Middle East deployment Cairo further held Israel responsible for the bombing of the Ahli Baptist Hospital in Gaza City that killed at least 500 people. Also read | Israel-Hamas war: Senior Hamas commander Ayman Nofal killed in Gaza air strike “Egypt called on Israel to immediately stop its policies of collective punishment against the people in the Gaza Strip,” the Egyptian foreign ministry statement adds. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Israel-Hamas war: At least 500 killed after deadly explosion at Gaza hospital, Israel denies role

A sense of terror and concern gripped Brussels city of Belgium after a gunman claiming to be a member of ISIS went on a rampage and killed two Swedish nationals who were on their way to watch a match at King Baudouin Stadium, where Sweden were playing Belgium.

The assault took place on Monday (Oct 16) on Boulevard d'Ypres, 5 kilometres (3 miles) from the stadium.

The attacker was identified by local media as 45-year-old Abdesalem Lassoued, of Tunisian origin.&nbsp;He was said to be carrying a&nbsp;Kalashnikov-style assault rifle when he saw a group of football fans heading to see the Euro 2024 qualifier.

Following 12 hours of manhunt, the terrorist was caught and shot during a stop-and-search in a cafe as authorities searched Belgium’s capital.

Interior minister Annelies Verlinden said the terrorist died on the way to hospital in an ambulance.

<h2>Sought revenge for Quran burnings&nbsp;</h2>

“The perpetrator of the terrorist attack in Brussels has been identified and died," Verlinden posted on X, hours after Prime Minister Alexander De Croo called Monday's shooting a brutal "terrorist attack".

The shooting comes in the backdrop of rising tensions over the Quran burning protests in Sweden that widened the rift between the Arab nations and the European country.

Several countries had objected to the protests and terrorists had even threatened to eliminate Swedes at home and abroad.

“The perpetrator targeted specifically Swedish supporters who were in Brussels to attend a Red Devils soccer match. Two Swedish compatriots passed away. A third person is recovering from severe injures," PM de Croo said.

<h2>Attacker celebrated killings&nbsp;</h2>

Shortly after the attack, the gunman uploaded a video of himself on Facebook boasting about the murders.

In the video, the attacker used the name 'Slayem Slouma' and said in Arabic that he sought to avenge the killing of a six-year-old US-Palestinian boy.

The six-year-old boy, Wadea Al-Fayoume, was knifed to death in Plainfield, Illinois, on Saturday morning.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brussels-shooting-suspected-shooter-arrested-after-attack-647865">Brussels shooting: Suspected attacker shot dead by police after chase</a>

His mother, Hanaan Shahin, was also stabbed over a dozen times, by a man allegedly screaming 'You Muslims must die!'

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/belgium-two-killed-in-shooting-incident-in-brussels-suspect-on-run-647715">ISIS terrorist kills 2 in Brussels to 'avenge' murder of 6-year-old Illinois boy</a>

Celebrating the assault, he said, "Islamic greeting Allahu Akbar. My name is Abdesalem Al Guilani and I am a fighter for Allah. I am from the Islamic State. We love who loves us and we hate who hates us. We live for our religion and we die for our religion.”

He further said that he has “killed three Swedes so far” and also claimed he had carried out the attack in “revenge in the name of Muslims”.

Notably, the third victim survived and is said to be undergoing treatment&nbsp;at a hospital.

<h2>Who is Abdesalem Lassoued?</h2>

Abdesalem Lassoued is a 45-year-old man from Tunisia.&nbsp;He was reportedly a failed asylum seeker and was living illegally in the Schaerbeek area, which is about a ten-minute drive from the shooting site.

Justice Minister Vincent Van Quickenborn said Lassoued was convicted in Tunisia ‘for common law offences’, but was not reported for a terrorist risk.

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A sense of terror and concern gripped Brussels city of Belgium after a gunman claiming to be a member of ISIS went on a rampage and killed two Swedish nationals who were on their way to watch a match at King Baudouin Stadium, where Sweden were playing Belgium.

A sense of terror and concern gripped Brussels city of Belgium after a gunman claiming to be a member of ISIS went on a rampage and killed two Swedish nationals who were on their way to watch a match at King Baudouin Stadium, where Sweden were playing Belgium. The assault took place on Monday (Oct 16) on Boulevard d'Ypres, 5 kilometres (3 miles) from the stadium. The attacker was identified by local media as 45-year-old Abdesalem Lassoued, of Tunisian origin. He was said to be carrying a Kalashnikov-style assault rifle when he saw a group of football fans heading to see the Euro 2024 qualifier. Following 12 hours of manhunt, the terrorist was caught and shot during a stop-and-search in a cafe as authorities searched Belgium’s capital. Interior minister Annelies Verlinden said the terrorist died on the way to hospital in an ambulance. Sought revenge for Quran burnings “The perpetrator of the terrorist attack in Brussels has been identified and died," Verlinden posted on X, hours after Prime Minister Alexander De Croo called Monday's shooting a brutal "terrorist attack". The shooting comes in the backdrop of rising tensions over the Quran burning protests in Sweden that widened the rift between the Arab nations and the European country. Several countries had objected to the protests and terrorists had even threatened to eliminate Swedes at home and abroad. “The perpetrator targeted specifically Swedish supporters who were in Brussels to attend a Red Devils soccer match. Two Swedish compatriots passed away. A third person is recovering from severe injures," PM de Croo said. Attacker celebrated killings Shortly after the attack, the gunman uploaded a video of himself on Facebook boasting about the murders. In the video, the attacker used the name 'Slayem Slouma' and said in Arabic that he sought to avenge the killing of a six-year-old US-Palestinian boy. The six-year-old boy, Wadea Al-Fayoume, was knifed to death in Plainfield, Illinois, on Saturday morning. Also read | Brussels shooting: Suspected attacker shot dead by police after chase His mother, Hanaan Shahin, was also stabbed over a dozen times, by a man allegedly screaming 'You Muslims must die!' Also read | ISIS terrorist kills 2 in Brussels to 'avenge' murder of 6-year-old Illinois boy Celebrating the assault, he said, "Islamic greeting Allahu Akbar. My name is Abdesalem Al Guilani and I am a fighter for Allah. I am from the Islamic State. We love who loves us and we hate who hates us. We live for our religion and we die for our religion.” He further said that he has “killed three Swedes so far” and also claimed he had carried out the attack in “revenge in the name of Muslims”. Notably, the third victim survived and is said to be undergoing treatment at a hospital. Who is Abdesalem Lassoued? Abdesalem Lassoued is a 45-year-old man from Tunisia. He was reportedly a failed asylum seeker and was living illegally in the Schaerbeek area, which is about a ten-minute drive from the shooting site. Justice Minister Vincent Van Quickenborn said Lassoued was convicted in Tunisia ‘for common law offences’, but was not reported for a terrorist risk. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Who is Abdesalem Lassoued? Man who shot dead 2 Swedes over Quran burnings, US Muslim boy's killing

US military has put its 2,000 troops on alert for its potential deployment to the Middle East as the conflict between Israel and Hamas spirals out of control. National Security Council spokesman John Kirby asserted that deploying troops “is really about sending a signal of deterrence”. In another news, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that India plans to send astronauts to the Moon by 2040, and also set up its own space station by 2035&nbsp;

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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-vs-hamas-us-military-readies-2000-troops-for-potential-middle-east-deployment-as-war-escalates-648105">Israel vs Hamas: US military readies 2,000 troops for potential Middle East</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/10/17/387167-military.jpg?imwidth=1920" />Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin said the deployment would allow the United States “to respond more quickly” to the crisis, even as the White House clarified that the US forces would not serve in combat roles.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-abdesalem-lassoued-the-man-who-killed-two-swedes-in-revenge-for-quran-burning-protests-648024">Abdesalem Lassoued killed 2 Swedes over Quran burnings, killing of Muslim boy</a>

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A sense of terror and concern gripped Brussels city of Belgium after a gunman claiming to be a member of ISIS went on a rampage and killed two Swedish nationals who were on their way to watch a match at King Baudouin Stadium, where Sweden were playing Belgium.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/supreme-courts-verdict-quashed-the-hopes-of-millions-say-lgbt-rights-activists-648059">SC's verdict 'quashed the hopes of millions', say LGBT rights activists</a>

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India is considered one of the most culturally diverse nations globally. A big part of this culture since ancient times is its queer community.&nbsp;From the sculptures of Khajuraho to characters like Shikhandi in Indian mythology, the LGBTQIA+ community has played a huge role in Indian culture. In spite of that, the community has been deprived of basic rights like marriage.&nbsp;

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The Sayed Jamaluddin Afghan school in Bhogal, located in the heart of the bustling Indian capital of Delhi, had long been a beacon of hope for the expat Afghan community. Established in 1994, it was a place where over 200 Afghan refugee students, ranging from 1st to 12th grade, could receive an education.

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Twenty-year-old Mohammed Moguchkov, who killed a school teacher in France last Friday, said that he was acting for the Islamic State (IS), the news agency AFP reported on Tuesday (Oct 17) citing a source. The source said that Moguchkov also made a "very marginal" reference to the October 7 attack by Hamas on Israel in the video before stabbing 57-year-old Dominique Bernard of the Lycee Gambetta High School in Arras.&nbsp;

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Former India captain Sourav Ganguly has slammed Babar Azam-led Pakistan's batting unit after their horror show versus arch-rivals India in match 12 of the ICC ODI World Cup 2023 edition. The sides met each other on Saturday (Oct 14) at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad where India opted to bowl first.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/idf-reacts-to-hamas-hostage-video-says-trying-to-look-humane-but-are-terrorist-647982">Hamas' hostage video: Girl's mom calls it crime against humanity, IDF says terrorists trying to look 'humane'</a>

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Reacting to the footage of the hostage shared by Hamas in the wake of the ongoing war, Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said that the 21-year-old Mia Schem, who was seen in the video, was abducted by the terrorists last week and that their officials reached out to the family of Mia and are in touch with them.&nbsp;

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The British Police on Tuesday (Oct 17) detained Swedish climate campaigner Grete Thunberg from a protest outside the energy sector's annual London get-together. According to a report by the news agency AFP, Thunberg, 20, was taken away by two police officers and put in the back of a police van outside the Energy Intelligence Forum.

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India said on Tuesday (Oct 17) that it aims to send an astronaut to the Moon by 2040, as Prime Minister Narendra Modi issued instructions to the space department that include plans for a space station by 2035. Prime Minister Modi also called on scientists to work on missions to Venus and Mars.

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P!nk's eagerly anticipated shows in Tacoma, Washington, have been postponed due to unforeseen "family medical issues" requiring immediate attention. The multi-talented pop star, known for her chart-topping hits and electrifying performances, shared the disappointing news with her fans via an Instagram post on Monday.

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US military has put its 2,000 troops on alert for its potential deployment to the Middle East as the conflict between Israel and Hamas spirals out of control. National Security Council spokesman John Kirby asserted that deploying troops “is really about sending a signal of deterrence”.

US military has put its 2,000 troops on alert for its potential deployment to the Middle East as the conflict between Israel and Hamas spirals out of control. National Security Council spokesman John Kirby asserted that deploying troops “is really about sending a signal of deterrence”. In another news, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that India plans to send astronauts to the Moon by 2040, and also set up its own space station by 2035 Click on the headlines to read more: Israel vs Hamas: US military readies 2,000 troops for potential Middle East Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin said the deployment would allow the United States “to respond more quickly” to the crisis, even as the White House clarified that the US forces would not serve in combat roles. Abdesalem Lassoued killed 2 Swedes over Quran burnings, killing of Muslim boy A sense of terror and concern gripped Brussels city of Belgium after a gunman claiming to be a member of ISIS went on a rampage and killed two Swedish nationals who were on their way to watch a match at King Baudouin Stadium, where Sweden were playing Belgium. SC's verdict 'quashed the hopes of millions', say LGBT rights activists India is considered one of the most culturally diverse nations globally. A big part of this culture since ancient times is its queer community. From the sculptures of Khajuraho to characters like Shikhandi in Indian mythology, the LGBTQIA+ community has played a huge role in Indian culture. In spite of that, the community has been deprived of basic rights like marriage. EXCLUSIVE | Afghan school in Delhi is shut. Will it be revived? The Sayed Jamaluddin Afghan school in Bhogal, located in the heart of the bustling Indian capital of Delhi, had long been a beacon of hope for the expat Afghan community. Established in 1994, it was a place where over 200 Afghan refugee students, ranging from 1st to 12th grade, could receive an education. French teacher stabbing: Killer claims attack for Islamic State Twenty-year-old Mohammed Moguchkov, who killed a school teacher in France last Friday, said that he was acting for the Islamic State (IS), the news agency AFP reported on Tuesday (Oct 17) citing a source. The source said that Moguchkov also made a "very marginal" reference to the October 7 attack by Hamas on Israel in the video before stabbing 57-year-old Dominique Bernard of the Lycee Gambetta High School in Arras. Ganguly slams Pak's batting unit, says comeback difficult after India drubbing Former India captain Sourav Ganguly has slammed Babar Azam-led Pakistan's batting unit after their horror show versus arch-rivals India in match 12 of the ICC ODI World Cup 2023 edition. The sides met each other on Saturday (Oct 14) at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad where India opted to bowl first. Hamas' hostage video: Girl's mom calls it crime against humanity, IDF says terrorists trying to look 'humane' Reacting to the footage of the hostage shared by Hamas in the wake of the ongoing war, Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said that the 21-year-old Mia Schem, who was seen in the video, was abducted by the terrorists last week and that their officials reached out to the family of Mia and are in touch with them. Greta Thunberg detained at London climate protest The British Police on Tuesday (Oct 17) detained Swedish climate campaigner Grete Thunberg from a protest outside the energy sector's annual London get-together. According to a report by the news agency AFP, Thunberg, 20, was taken away by two police officers and put in the back of a police van outside the Energy Intelligence Forum. India aims to set up own space station by 2035, send astronaut to Moon by 2040: PM Modi India said on Tuesday (Oct 17) that it aims to send an astronaut to the Moon by 2040, as Prime Minister Narendra Modi issued instructions to the space department that include plans for a space station by 2035. Prime Minister Modi also called on scientists to work on missions to Venus and Mars. P!nk's shows in Tacoma postponed due to 'family medical issues' P!nk's eagerly anticipated shows in Tacoma, Washington, have been postponed due to unforeseen "family medical issues" requiring immediate attention. The multi-talented pop star, known for her chart-topping hits and electrifying performances, shared the disappointing news with her fans via an Instagram post on Monday.

Top 10 news: US may send 2k troops to West Asia; queer community disappointed with India SC verdict, and more

In Pics | Here's how Hamas secretly built a 'mini-army' to fight Israel

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken was made to wait for hours for a meeting with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS), who only showed up the next day, the Washington Post reported.

Blinken was in Saudi Arabia last week as part of his multi-Gulf nation tour in a bid to align their views with Washington’s in the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict.

Blinken wanted Arab nations’ support in condemning Hamas militant group and seeking their help in tampering down anti-Israel tensions in their countries.

But what awaited Blinken was an unprecedented snub from the Saudi leader on Saturday (Oct 14).

Upon arriving in Riyadh, Blinken headed straight to the Crown Prince for a meeting later that evening. But Mohammed bin Salman turned up only the next morning, making the US official wait for several hours, reports the outlet.

<h2>Historical snub&nbsp;</h2>

During the meeting, the Crown Prince reportedly told Blinken to convey its displeasure towards Israel over its military operations "that claimed the lives of innocent people" in the densely populated Gaza Strip.

Mohammed bin Salman also criticised Israel for imposing a blockade on food, fuel, and other supplies, and called for the conflict to be de-escalated.

Blinken’s another meeting with Egypt's President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, another US regional ally, also found no support for Washington’s views, the report says.&nbsp;

“I heard a lot of good ideas about some of the things we need to do moving forward,” Blinken told reporters on Sunday following his meetings with the two leaders.

<h2>Divergent views&nbsp;</h2>

"There's a determination in every country I went to, to make sure that this conflict doesn't spread. They are using their own influence, their own relationships, to try to make sure that this doesn't happen," he added.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/un-agency-in-palestine-accuses-hamas-of-stealing-gaza-aid-then-deletes-post-on-x-647660">UN agency accuses Hamas of stealing aid from Gaza City, then refutes claim</a>

The difference of opinion over the conflict was also reflected in the way both Blinken and MBS described the meeting.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/is-israel-preparing-for-two-front-war-israeli-army-evacuates-near-lebanon-border-after-hezbollah-attack-647611">Israeli army evacuates residents near Lebanon border after Hezbollah attack</a>

While Blinken remarked on his meeting with MBS as “very productive,” the de facto ruler of Saudi released a different statement on the situation, in line with other Middle Eastern countries, which reject civilians being harmed and call for international law to be respected.

(With inputs from agencies)

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US Secretary of State Antony Blinken was made to wait for hours for a meeting with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS), who only showed up the next day, the Washington Post reported.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken was made to wait for hours for a meeting with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS), who only showed up the next day, the Washington Post reported. Blinken was in Saudi Arabia last week as part of his multi-Gulf nation tour in a bid to align their views with Washington’s in the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict. Blinken wanted Arab nations’ support in condemning Hamas militant group and seeking their help in tampering down anti-Israel tensions in their countries. But what awaited Blinken was an unprecedented snub from the Saudi leader on Saturday (Oct 14). Upon arriving in Riyadh, Blinken headed straight to the Crown Prince for a meeting later that evening. But Mohammed bin Salman turned up only the next morning, making the US official wait for several hours, reports the outlet. Historical snub During the meeting, the Crown Prince reportedly told Blinken to convey its displeasure towards Israel over its military operations "that claimed the lives of innocent people" in the densely populated Gaza Strip. Mohammed bin Salman also criticised Israel for imposing a blockade on food, fuel, and other supplies, and called for the conflict to be de-escalated. Blinken’s another meeting with Egypt's President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, another US regional ally, also found no support for Washington’s views, the report says. “I heard a lot of good ideas about some of the things we need to do moving forward,” Blinken told reporters on Sunday following his meetings with the two leaders. Divergent views "There's a determination in every country I went to, to make sure that this conflict doesn't spread. They are using their own influence, their own relationships, to try to make sure that this doesn't happen," he added. Also read | UN agency accuses Hamas of stealing aid from Gaza City, then refutes claim The difference of opinion over the conflict was also reflected in the way both Blinken and MBS described the meeting. Also read | Israeli army evacuates residents near Lebanon border after Hezbollah attack While Blinken remarked on his meeting with MBS as “very productive,” the de facto ruler of Saudi released a different statement on the situation, in line with other Middle Eastern countries, which reject civilians being harmed and call for international law to be respected. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman made US Secretary Antony Blinken wait for hours: Report

Iran has jailed the lawyer of Mahsa Amini, the 22-year-old Kurdish woman whose death sparked massive anti-regime and anti-hijab protests.

Saleh Nikbakht, the attorney representing&nbsp;Amini's family, was sentenced to one year in prison on charges of "propaganda activities against the system", Iran International outlet reported on Tuesday (Oct 17).

The trial began in August during which Nikbakht was accused of "having spoken to foreign and local media about the Mahsa Amini case".

Notably, Nikbakht raised doubts about the forensic report which had attributed Amini's death to a "heart attack" and an "underlying disease". He wanted a reinvestigation by a committee of independent medical professionals.

The prosecution presented nine interviews conducted by Nikbakht between 2019 and 2023 as "evidence" against him, where he discussed controversial topics such as the confrontations between security forces and Afghans.

<h2>Lawyer jailed for controversial interviews&nbsp;</h2>

"My client Saleh Nikbakht has unfortunately been condemned to the maximum penalty, one year in prison, for propaganda activity against the system," his lawyer Ali Rezai told the Ham Mihan newspaper website.

“It is surprising that they have imposed the maximum sentence on Nikbakht, who is 73 years old," Rezai said.

He expressed hope that the verdict would be "overturned in the upcoming proceedings".

Nikbakht is not presently in custody, pending the appeal's outcome.

<h2>Amini's death sparked anti-regime protests&nbsp;</h2>

Amini, originally hailing from Saqqez, had come to the capital Tehran with her family to visit relatives but was arrested by the morality police on September 13, 2022, for "improper hijab."

During her first two hours in detention, she suffered severe head injuries, prompting her transfer to a hospital in Tehran. On September 16, she died.

Her death sparked widespread protests against the Islamic Republic, making it one of the significant uprisings against clerical rule in Iran in the past 43 years.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-abdesalem-lassoued-the-man-who-killed-two-swedes-in-revenge-for-quran-burning-protests-648024">Abdesalem Lassoued killed 2 Swedes over Quran burnings, killing of Muslim boy</a>

The enforcement authorities retaliated with one of the violent crackdowns during which over 500 people were killed and more than 22,000 were detained, according to rights groups.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-dont-wear-that-19-year-old-sikh-boy-assaulted-in-us-over-wearing-turban-647997">‘We don’t wear that,’ 19-year-old Sikh assaulted in US hate crime over wearing turban</a>

Though the demonstrations died down by early this year, some signs of sporadic disconnect were still visible in parts of the country.

For several months, women were seen openly flaunting the headscarf rule in Tehran and other cities, prompting a renewed crackdown over the summer.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Iran has jailed the lawyer of Mahsa Amini, the 22-year-old Kurdish woman whose death sparked massive anti-regime and anti-hijab protests. Saleh Nikbakht, the attorney representing Amini's family, was sentenced to one year in prison on charges of "propaganda activities against the system", Iran International outlet reported on Tuesday (Oct 17).

Iran has jailed the lawyer of Mahsa Amini, the 22-year-old Kurdish woman whose death sparked massive anti-regime and anti-hijab protests. Saleh Nikbakht, the attorney representing Amini's family, was sentenced to one year in prison on charges of "propaganda activities against the system", Iran International outlet reported on Tuesday (Oct 17). The trial began in August during which Nikbakht was accused of "having spoken to foreign and local media about the Mahsa Amini case". Notably, Nikbakht raised doubts about the forensic report which had attributed Amini's death to a "heart attack" and an "underlying disease". He wanted a reinvestigation by a committee of independent medical professionals. The prosecution presented nine interviews conducted by Nikbakht between 2019 and 2023 as "evidence" against him, where he discussed controversial topics such as the confrontations between security forces and Afghans. Lawyer jailed for controversial interviews "My client Saleh Nikbakht has unfortunately been condemned to the maximum penalty, one year in prison, for propaganda activity against the system," his lawyer Ali Rezai told the Ham Mihan newspaper website. “It is surprising that they have imposed the maximum sentence on Nikbakht, who is 73 years old," Rezai said. He expressed hope that the verdict would be "overturned in the upcoming proceedings". Nikbakht is not presently in custody, pending the appeal's outcome. Amini's death sparked anti-regime protests Amini, originally hailing from Saqqez, had come to the capital Tehran with her family to visit relatives but was arrested by the morality police on September 13, 2022, for "improper hijab." During her first two hours in detention, she suffered severe head injuries, prompting her transfer to a hospital in Tehran. On September 16, she died. Her death sparked widespread protests against the Islamic Republic, making it one of the significant uprisings against clerical rule in Iran in the past 43 years. Also read | Abdesalem Lassoued killed 2 Swedes over Quran burnings, killing of Muslim boy The enforcement authorities retaliated with one of the violent crackdowns during which over 500 people were killed and more than 22,000 were detained, according to rights groups. Also read | ‘We don’t wear that,’ 19-year-old Sikh assaulted in US hate crime over wearing turban Though the demonstrations died down by early this year, some signs of sporadic disconnect were still visible in parts of the country. For several months, women were seen openly flaunting the headscarf rule in Tehran and other cities, prompting a renewed crackdown over the summer. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Iran jails lawyer of Mahsa Amini whose death sparked anti-hijab protests

The US military has readied 2,000 troops for their potential deployment to the Middle East should the conflict between Israel and Hamas escalates.

Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin said the deployment would allow the United States “to respond more quickly” to the crisis, even as the White House clarified that the US forces would not serve in combat roles.

These troops, selected from across the US armed services and currently stationed across Europe, will be tasked with missions like advising and medical support, the Wall Street Journal reported.

<h2>Troops not for combat&nbsp;</h2>

National Security Council spokesman John Kirby asserted that deploying troops “is really about sending a signal of deterrence”.

“We don’t want to see this conflict escalate and widen,” Kirby told CNN. “There are no plans or intentions to put US boots on the ground in combat in Israel.”

<h2>Israel-Hamas war: US President Joe Biden to meet Palestine leader</h2>

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<h2>Biden to begin his Middle East trip</h2>

The development comes at a time when Joe Biden is expected to begin his trip to the Middle East on Tuesday (Oct 17) evening to meet leaders of Israel, Jordan, Egypt, and Palestine in a bid to de-escalate the situation in the Gaza Strip.

On Wednesday, Biden will meet Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu in Tel Aviv for talks. The US secretary of state, Antony Blinken, has already made two trips to Israel since the Hamas attack on 7 October.

Later, Biden is expected to fly to Amman in Jordan for talks about accelerating humanitarian assistance to Gaza, where he will meet Jordan’s King Abdullah, the Egyptian president, Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, and the Palestinian president, Mahmoud Abbas.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-family-on-gaza-border-killed-in-hamas-attack-found-dead-hugging-each-other-647813">Israel-Hamas war: A family attacked on Gaza border was found dead hugging each other</a>

According to Reuters, White House national security spokesperson John Kirby said: “He’ll make it clear that we want to continue working with all our partners in the region, including Israel, to get humanitarian assistance in and provide some kind of safe passage for civilians to get out.”

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-to-revoke-ratification-of-comprehensive-nuclear-test-ban-treaty-647867">Russia to revoke ratification of Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty</a>

So far, more than 1,400 Israelis, including civilians and soldiers, have lost their lives in the unprecedented assault launched by the Hamas terror group on October 7, while at least 3,000 people have died in the retaliatory strikes by Israel.

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The US military has readied 2,000 troops for their potential deployment to the Middle East should the conflict between Israel and Hamas escalates. Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin said the deployment would allow the United States “to respond more quickly” to the crisis, even as the White House clarified that the US forces would not serve in combat roles.

The US military has readied 2,000 troops for their potential deployment to the Middle East should the conflict between Israel and Hamas escalates. Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin said the deployment would allow the United States “to respond more quickly” to the crisis, even as the White House clarified that the US forces would not serve in combat roles. These troops, selected from across the US armed services and currently stationed across Europe, will be tasked with missions like advising and medical support, the Wall Street Journal reported. Troops not for combat National Security Council spokesman John Kirby asserted that deploying troops “is really about sending a signal of deterrence”. “We don’t want to see this conflict escalate and widen,” Kirby told CNN. “There are no plans or intentions to put US boots on the ground in combat in Israel.” Israel-Hamas war: US President Joe Biden to meet Palestine leader Biden to begin his Middle East trip The development comes at a time when Joe Biden is expected to begin his trip to the Middle East on Tuesday (Oct 17) evening to meet leaders of Israel, Jordan, Egypt, and Palestine in a bid to de-escalate the situation in the Gaza Strip. On Wednesday, Biden will meet Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu in Tel Aviv for talks. The US secretary of state, Antony Blinken, has already made two trips to Israel since the Hamas attack on 7 October. Later, Biden is expected to fly to Amman in Jordan for talks about accelerating humanitarian assistance to Gaza, where he will meet Jordan’s King Abdullah, the Egyptian president, Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, and the Palestinian president, Mahmoud Abbas. Also read | Israel-Hamas war: A family attacked on Gaza border was found dead hugging each other According to Reuters, White House national security spokesperson John Kirby said: “He’ll make it clear that we want to continue working with all our partners in the region, including Israel, to get humanitarian assistance in and provide some kind of safe passage for civilians to get out.” Also read | Russia to revoke ratification of Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty So far, more than 1,400 Israelis, including civilians and soldiers, have lost their lives in the unprecedented assault launched by the Hamas terror group on October 7, while at least 3,000 people have died in the retaliatory strikes by Israel. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Israel-Hamas war: US military readies 2,000 troops for potential Middle East deployment as war escalates

US President Joe Biden will visit Israel on Wednesday for talks with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and make clear Israel has the right to defend itself, Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced on Tuesday.

Israel-Hamas war: Risk of a wider war loom large

India’s Supreme Court finished&nbsp;hearing a clutch of petitions urging the court to validate same-sex marriage in the country, back in May 2023.&nbsp;A five-judge constitutional bench comprising Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud, Justice Sanjay Kishan Kaul, Justice Ravindra Bhat, Justice Hima Kohli and Justice PS Narasimha heard the arguments, and will soon pass their judgement on&nbsp;pleas seeking recognition of same-sex marriage under the Special Marriage Act, Foreign Marriage Act and the Hindu Marriage Act.&nbsp;

Though the apex court decriminalised homosexuality in 2018, same-sex marriages remain illegal and unrecognised by Indian laws. &nbsp;

The ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has repeatedly opposed any recognition of same-sex marriages, even though Indian society,&nbsp;has begun to gradually accept&nbsp;the LGBTQ+ community. &nbsp;

When did the case reach the apex court?&nbsp;

On November 25 last year, two gay couples approached the top court seeking recognition of same-sex marriage under the Special Marriage Act, following which the court issued notices on the plea.&nbsp;

They wanted the court to make provisions so that the Special Marriage Act be made gender-neutral by striking out gender-or sexuality-based discrimination.&nbsp;

The apex court had noted that a similar case was taken by the Kerala High Court, in which the Union Government made a statement through the Deputy Solicitor General that the ministry was taking steps to get all the writ petitions, including the writ petition before the High Court of Delhi, transferred to the SC.&nbsp;

Then, a two-judge bench led by Chief Justice DY Chandrachud issued a notice and sought a response from the central government, and the Attorney General for India.&nbsp;

Later on January 6, 2023, the apex court ordered the transfer of all petitions seeking legal recognition for same-sex marriages pending before different high courts.&nbsp;

What is the government's opinion?&nbsp;

The Narendra Modi-led Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government has opposed in the Supreme Court a batch of pleas seeking legal validation of same-sex marriage, saying it would cause complete havoc with the delicate balance of personal laws and accepted societal values.&nbsp;

In an affidavit filed before the apex court, the government submitted that despite the decriminalisation of Section 377 of the Indian Penal Code, the petitioners cannot claim a fundamental right for same-sex marriage to be recognised under the laws of the country.&nbsp;

Calling the petitions seeking the right to same-sex marriage an “urban elitist concept far removed from social ethos of the country”, the submission filed by the government stated that recognition of marriage is essentially a legislative function and that the courts should refrain from deciding.

“A decision by the court in recognising the right of same-sex marriage would mean a virtual judicial rewriting of an entire branch of law. The court must refrain from passing such omnibus orders. Proper authority for the same is appropriate legislature...Given the fundamental social origin of these laws, any change in order to be legitimate would have to come from the bottom up and through legislation...a change cannot be compelled by judicial fiat and the best judge of the pace of change is the legislature itself,” stated the application.

Which way are the courts leaning?

According to Article 21 of the Indian Constitution, "no person shall be deprived of his life or personal liberty except according to procedure established by law.” This fundamental right is available to every person, citizens and foreigners alike.

The courts have time and again cited this article while ruling in favour of contentious issues like inter-faith and inter-caste marriages, and ordered the police and other rights organisations to give them protection whenever they feel or are threatened by parents or society, noting that “all adults have the right to marry a person of their choice.”

In 2018, when the court decriminalised homosexuality, it noted, “Members of the LGBTQ+ community are entitled to the benefit of an equal citizenship, without discrimination, and to the equal protection of the law."

“The choice of whom to partner, the ability to find fulfilment in sexual intimacies and the right not to be subjected to discriminatory behaviour are intrinsic to the constitutional protection of sexual orientation.”

Why do the petitioners want legal validation?

Even though India has accepted people of the LGBTQ+ community, and they have been allowed to live together, they still cannot marry each other, as there is no legal provision that gives them the right to do so.

The problem for LGBTQ+ couples arises when they want to adopt a child or have a kid through surrogacy.

As per the Indian surrogacy laws, which was amended in 2016, single parents, homosexuals, live-in couples, and foreign single individuals are prohibited from having children through surrogate mothers.

The same rule kicks in when trying to adopt children in India.

Apart from that, same-sex couples are not entitled to rights to inheritance, maintenance and tax benefits. After a partner passes away, they cannot avail benefits like pension or compensation.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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India’s Supreme Court finished hearing a clutch of petitions urging the court to validate same-sex marriage in the country, back in May 2023. A five-judge constitutional bench comprising Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud, Justice Sanjay Kishan Kaul, Justice Ravindra Bhat, Justice Hima Kohli and Justice PS Narasimha heard the arguments, and will soon pass their judgement on pleas seeking recognition of same-sex marriage under the Special Marriage Act, Foreign Marriage Act and the Hindu Marriage Act.

India’s Supreme Court finished hearing a clutch of petitions urging the court to validate same-sex marriage in the country, back in May 2023. A five-judge constitutional bench comprising Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud, Justice Sanjay Kishan Kaul, Justice Ravindra Bhat, Justice Hima Kohli and Justice PS Narasimha heard the arguments, and will soon pass their judgement on pleas seeking recognition of same-sex marriage under the Special Marriage Act, Foreign Marriage Act and the Hindu Marriage Act. Though the apex court decriminalised homosexuality in 2018, same-sex marriages remain illegal and unrecognised by Indian laws. The ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has repeatedly opposed any recognition of same-sex marriages, even though Indian society, has begun to gradually accept the LGBTQ+ community. When did the case reach the apex court? On November 25 last year, two gay couples approached the top court seeking recognition of same-sex marriage under the Special Marriage Act, following which the court issued notices on the plea. They wanted the court to make provisions so that the Special Marriage Act be made gender-neutral by striking out gender-or sexuality-based discrimination. The apex court had noted that a similar case was taken by the Kerala High Court, in which the Union Government made a statement through the Deputy Solicitor General that the ministry was taking steps to get all the writ petitions, including the writ petition before the High Court of Delhi, transferred to the SC. Then, a two-judge bench led by Chief Justice DY Chandrachud issued a notice and sought a response from the central government, and the Attorney General for India. Later on January 6, 2023, the apex court ordered the transfer of all petitions seeking legal recognition for same-sex marriages pending before different high courts. What is the government's opinion? The Narendra Modi-led Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government has opposed in the Supreme Court a batch of pleas seeking legal validation of same-sex marriage, saying it would cause complete havoc with the delicate balance of personal laws and accepted societal values. In an affidavit filed before the apex court, the government submitted that despite the decriminalisation of Section 377 of the Indian Penal Code, the petitioners cannot claim a fundamental right for same-sex marriage to be recognised under the laws of the country. Calling the petitions seeking the right to same-sex marriage an “urban elitist concept far removed from social ethos of the country”, the submission filed by the government stated that recognition of marriage is essentially a legislative function and that the courts should refrain from deciding. “A decision by the court in recognising the right of same-sex marriage would mean a virtual judicial rewriting of an entire branch of law. The court must refrain from passing such omnibus orders. Proper authority for the same is appropriate legislature...Given the fundamental social origin of these laws, any change in order to be legitimate would have to come from the bottom up and through legislation...a change cannot be compelled by judicial fiat and the best judge of the pace of change is the legislature itself,” stated the application. Which way are the courts leaning? According to Article 21 of the Indian Constitution, "no person shall be deprived of his life or personal liberty except according to procedure established by law.” This fundamental right is available to every person, citizens and foreigners alike. The courts have time and again cited this article while ruling in favour of contentious issues like inter-faith and inter-caste marriages, and ordered the police and other rights organisations to give them protection whenever they feel or are threatened by parents or society, noting that “all adults have the right to marry a person of their choice.” In 2018, when the court decriminalised homosexuality, it noted, “Members of the LGBTQ+ community are entitled to the benefit of an equal citizenship, without discrimination, and to the equal protection of the law." “The choice of whom to partner, the ability to find fulfilment in sexual intimacies and the right not to be subjected to discriminatory behaviour are intrinsic to the constitutional protection of sexual orientation.” Why do the petitioners want legal validation? Even though India has accepted people of the LGBTQ+ community, and they have been allowed to live together, they still cannot marry each other, as there is no legal provision that gives them the right to do so. The problem for LGBTQ+ couples arises when they want to adopt a child or have a kid through surrogacy. As per the Indian surrogacy laws, which was amended in 2016, single parents, homosexuals, live-in couples, and foreign single individuals are prohibited from having children through surrogate mothers. The same rule kicks in when trying to adopt children in India. Apart from that, same-sex couples are not entitled to rights to inheritance, maintenance and tax benefits. After a partner passes away, they cannot avail benefits like pension or compensation. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Explained: Why same-sex couples in India are seeking conjugal rights when homosexuality is decriminalised

At least 16 people were killed after two explosions occurred at two different places in the Virudhunagar district of southern India state of Tamil Nadu.

The first fire accident took place at a firecracker factory in Sivakasi, in which seven people lost their lives. The&nbsp;second accident happened at a firework unit in Kammapatti village which left nine dead.

“Seven charred bodies were recovered from the sudden blast at the fireworks unit in Sivakasi and their identities are yet to be established,” a senior police official told PTI.

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VIDEO | Several killed in blasts at two separate fireworks units at Sivakasi in Virudhunagar district of Tamil Nadu. More details are awaited. <a href="https://t.co/GEvLmapj3B">pic.twitter.com/GEvLmapj3B</a>
— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) <a href="https://twitter.com/PTI_News/status/1714233406198813176?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 17, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Tamil Nadu: An explosion took place at a firecracker manufacturing factory near Kammapatti village of Virudhunagar district: Fire and Rescue department <a href="https://t.co/t4nyL2542w">pic.twitter.com/t4nyL2542w</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1714233887659102269?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 17, 2023</a></blockquote>
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The police expect the casualties to go up as more fire officials are being pressed into service to douse the flames.&nbsp;

It is currently unknown what caused the fire incident at both the factories.&nbsp;

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin condoled the deaths and announced a compensation of Rs 300,000 ($3,600 approx.) for the families of the victims.

Sivakasi is considered to be a hub of firecrackers manufacturers in India.&nbsp;Approximately 70 per cent of the firecrackers and matches produced in India are from this region. The hot and dry climate of the city is conducive to the firecracker and matchbox-making industries.&nbsp;

However, the city has also been prone to many fire accidents at factories. Lack of supervision and safety measures in the units are considered to be the leading cause of fires and explosions.&nbsp;

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At least 16 people were killed after two explosions occurred at two different places in the Virudhunagar district of southern India state of Tamil Nadu. The first fire accident took place at a firecracker factory in Sivakasi, in which seven people lost their lives.

At least 16 people were killed after two explosions occurred at two different places in the Virudhunagar district of southern India state of Tamil Nadu. The first fire accident took place at a firecracker factory in Sivakasi, in which seven people lost their lives. The second accident happened at a firework unit in Kammapatti village which left nine dead. “Seven charred bodies were recovered from the sudden blast at the fireworks unit in Sivakasi and their identities are yet to be established,” a senior police official told PTI. VIDEO | Several killed in blasts at two separate fireworks units at Sivakasi in Virudhunagar district of Tamil Nadu. More details are awaited. pic.twitter.com/GEvLmapj3B — Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) October 17, 2023 × #WATCH | Tamil Nadu: An explosion took place at a firecracker manufacturing factory near Kammapatti village of Virudhunagar district: Fire and Rescue department pic.twitter.com/t4nyL2542w — ANI (@ANI) October 17, 2023 × The police expect the casualties to go up as more fire officials are being pressed into service to douse the flames. It is currently unknown what caused the fire incident at both the factories. Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin condoled the deaths and announced a compensation of Rs 300,000 ($3,600 approx.) for the families of the victims. Sivakasi is considered to be a hub of firecrackers manufacturers in India. Approximately 70 per cent of the firecrackers and matches produced in India are from this region. The hot and dry climate of the city is conducive to the firecracker and matchbox-making industries. However, the city has also been prone to many fire accidents at factories. Lack of supervision and safety measures in the units are considered to be the leading cause of fires and explosions. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

At least 16 killed in explosion at two firecracker units in Tamil Nadu

Scientists say they have for the first time discovered and recorded mysterious “singing” plasma waves around planet Mercury.

This phenomenon was discovered by astronomer Mitsunori Ozaki of Kanazawa University, and a team of other scientists from Japan and France.

While such chorus waves have been recorded on Earth, Jupiter, and Saturn, and observed at&nbsp;Uranus&nbsp;and&nbsp;Neptune, this is the first time that “whistling” sound waves were found emitting from Mercury’s magnetic field.

What makes this discovery interesting is that while other planets have a strong magnetic field, Mercury doesn’t.

<h2>Scientists shed light on new discovery&nbsp;</h2>

Mercury is essentially a big rock with a pretty much non-existent atmosphere. Since it orbits too close to the Sun, the planet is constantly bombarded with solar radiation and wind.

There are also a few things that Mercury does not have: a thick and&nbsp;lush atmosphere, and permanent radiation belts where solar particles become trapped in a planet's magnetic field.

Researchers believe that the findings could shed some light on the magnetic environment around Mercury, and how planetary magnetic fields in general are shaped by the solar wind.

Recently this year, scientists were able to discover that Mercury has auroras of its own kind, even though it has a non-existent magnetic field and atmosphere.

There has been sparse knowledge about Mercury as there have been not a lot of space missions dedicated to studying the planet.

<h2>Sparse knowledge of Mercury&nbsp;</h2>

The fact that it has a magnetic field was discovered only during the 1970s when the Mariner 10 space probe was launched to observe the planet.

But now scientists are seeking to make up for the lack of information, with its Mercury BepiColombo mission that was launched in 2018. It houses an instrument called MIO&nbsp;dedicated to studying the Mercurian magnetosphere.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/common-platic-additive-found-linked-to-adhd-and-autism-study-646680">Common plastic additive found linked to ADHD and autism: Study</a>

Though the instrument is not quite&nbsp;in orbit yet due to the influence of the Sun’s gravity, it conducted flybys of Mercury in 2021 and 2022 during which it recorded observations of Mercury's magnetic field.

It was during that time the researchers found clear evidence of whistler-mode waves in the magnetosphere of Mercury.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/space-storms-leaving-weird-impact-on-birds-claim-scientists-645870">Space storms leaving weird impact on birds, claim scientists</a>

"To date, we still do not know whether Earth and Mercury have similar spatiotemporal properties of their electron-driven chorus,"&nbsp;the researchers write.

"The present study paves the way for these challenging future investigations that will reveal how magnetized planet environments are shaped by the solar wind in our Solar System, with potential extrapolation to exoplanets and their interactions with stellar winds."

The research has been published in&nbsp;Nature Astronomy.

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Scientists say they have for the first time discovered and recorded mysterious “singing” plasma waves around planet Mercury. This phenomenon was discovered by astronomer Mitsunori Ozaki of Kanazawa University, and a team of other scientists from Japan and France.

Scientists say they have for the first time discovered and recorded mysterious “singing” plasma waves around planet Mercury. This phenomenon was discovered by astronomer Mitsunori Ozaki of Kanazawa University, and a team of other scientists from Japan and France. While such chorus waves have been recorded on Earth, Jupiter, and Saturn, and observed at Uranus and Neptune, this is the first time that “whistling” sound waves were found emitting from Mercury’s magnetic field. What makes this discovery interesting is that while other planets have a strong magnetic field, Mercury doesn’t. Scientists shed light on new discovery Mercury is essentially a big rock with a pretty much non-existent atmosphere. Since it orbits too close to the Sun, the planet is constantly bombarded with solar radiation and wind. There are also a few things that Mercury does not have: a thick and lush atmosphere, and permanent radiation belts where solar particles become trapped in a planet's magnetic field. Researchers believe that the findings could shed some light on the magnetic environment around Mercury, and how planetary magnetic fields in general are shaped by the solar wind. Recently this year, scientists were able to discover that Mercury has auroras of its own kind, even though it has a non-existent magnetic field and atmosphere. There has been sparse knowledge about Mercury as there have been not a lot of space missions dedicated to studying the planet. Sparse knowledge of Mercury The fact that it has a magnetic field was discovered only during the 1970s when the Mariner 10 space probe was launched to observe the planet. But now scientists are seeking to make up for the lack of information, with its Mercury BepiColombo mission that was launched in 2018. It houses an instrument called MIO dedicated to studying the Mercurian magnetosphere. Also read | Common plastic additive found linked to ADHD and autism: Study Though the instrument is not quite in orbit yet due to the influence of the Sun’s gravity, it conducted flybys of Mercury in 2021 and 2022 during which it recorded observations of Mercury's magnetic field. It was during that time the researchers found clear evidence of whistler-mode waves in the magnetosphere of Mercury. Also read | Space storms leaving weird impact on birds, claim scientists "To date, we still do not know whether Earth and Mercury have similar spatiotemporal properties of their electron-driven chorus," the researchers write. "The present study paves the way for these challenging future investigations that will reveal how magnetized planet environments are shaped by the solar wind in our Solar System, with potential extrapolation to exoplanets and their interactions with stellar winds." The research has been published in Nature Astronomy. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Scientists find mysterious ‘singing’ plasma waves around Mercury

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