Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has tested positive for COVID-19, but remains healthy enough to hold online meetings, his office said on Tuesday.

The Presidential Communications Office said on its Facebook page Marcos will isolate for five days. The statement did not indicate when he tested positive for the virus.

“The President remains fit to carry out his duties and will be continuing his scheduled meetings via teleconference,” the statement read.

Marcos, who is 66, was last seen in public on Saturday, attending a family day event inside presidential palace grounds.

He has cancelled his events on Tuesday, including a visit to Mindanao in the southern Philippines to attend to victims of a bombing on Sunday and people displaced from strong earthquakes and aftershocks since late Saturday.

Marcos previously contracted the virus in 2020, according to his spokesman at the time and received his second booster dose at a vaccination campaign by the health department last year.

The Philippines has recorded 1,340 new cases of the virus over the past week, according to data from the Health Department.

The Philippines has over 4.1 million confirmed cases of COVID-19, most of whom have recovered.

Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has tested positive for COVID-19, but remains healthy enough to hold online meetings, his office said on Tuesday. The Presidential Communications Office said on its Facebook page Marcos will isolate for five days.

Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has tested positive for COVID-19, but remains healthy enough to hold online meetings, his office said on Tuesday. The Presidential Communications Office said on its Facebook page Marcos will isolate for five days. The statement did not indicate when he tested positive for the virus. “The President remains fit to carry out his duties and will be continuing his scheduled meetings via teleconference,” the statement read. Marcos, who is 66, was last seen in public on Saturday, attending a family day event inside presidential palace grounds. He has cancelled his events on Tuesday, including a visit to Mindanao in the southern Philippines to attend to victims of a bombing on Sunday and people displaced from strong earthquakes and aftershocks since late Saturday. Marcos previously contracted the virus in 2020, according to his spokesman at the time and received his second booster dose at a vaccination campaign by the health department last year. The Philippines has recorded 1,340 new cases of the virus over the past week, according to data from the Health Department. The Philippines has over 4.1 million confirmed cases of COVID-19, most of whom have recovered.

Philippines President Ferdinand Marcos Jr tested positive for COVID-19

The Rishi Sunak-led government has introduced a new law in the parliament that seeks to curb immigration by imposing stricter working visa rules, ahead of the general elections next year.

The bill tabled on Monday (Dec 4) increases the salary threshold for foreign workers and tightens rules for the inclusion of family members as dependents.

For example, a person now has to earn £38,700 ($48,900) to qualify for a work visa, which was earlier £26,000.

Speaking at the House of Commons on Tuesday, Home Secretary James Cleverly said that the aim is to reduce annual net immigration by 300,000 “in future years,” without setting out a precise timetable.

The move is estimated to impact around 300,000 individuals who would no longer be able to access the UK's Skilled Worker Visa based on the new measures, the UK home office said.

Defending the move, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak termed it “radical measures” to lower migration and ensured that it benefits the United Kingdom.

"Immigration is excessively high. Today, we are taking decisive action to reduce it. These measures will guarantee that immigration always serves the best interests of the UK," he said on X.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
We've just announced the biggest ever cut in net migration. 
 
No Prime Minister has done this before in history. 
 
But the level of net migration is too high and it has to change. I am determined to do it.
— Rishi Sunak (@RishiSunak) <a href="https://twitter.com/RishiSunak/status/1731774989118882132?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 4, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

In another online statement,&nbsp;Sunak&nbsp;said, “We've just announced the biggest ever cut in net migration. No Prime Minister has done this before in history.”

The key measures to address immigration concerns include

<h2>Dependent restrictions</h2>

The government aims to reduce migration by restricting the entry of dependents into the UK. This forms a crucial part of their strategy to manage and control immigration.

<h2>Salary threshold increases</h2>

Minimum salaries for overseas workers and British or settled individuals sponsoring family members will undergo a substantial increase. The earning threshold for overseas workers will experience a nearly 50% surge, rising from £26,200 to £38,700. A similar increase will apply to British citizens sponsoring family members.

<h2>Health and care visa tightening</h2>

The Health and Care visa, previously a significant avenue for care workers and their dependents, will face new restrictions. Overseas care workers will no longer be permitted to bring dependants to the UK. Additionally, care providers can only sponsor migrant workers involved in activities regulated by the Care Quality Commission.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/senior-us-official-discusses-alleged-foiled-plot-to-kill-pannun-during-visit-to-india-666219">Senior US official discusses alleged foiled plot to kill Pannun during visit to India</a>

<h2>Crackdown on cut-price labour</h2>

The government plans to eliminate the 20 per cent salary discount for shortage occupations and introduce an Immigration Salary List. This list will be reviewed by the Migration Advisory Committee to align with the increased salary thresholds, addressing concerns related to cut-price labour.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/implosion-within-conservatives-above-40-supporters-turned-away-under-sunak-poll-666322">‘Implosion’ within Conservatives, above 40% supporters turned away under Sunak: Poll</a>

<h2>Student dependent restrictions</h2>

Measures have been implemented to address the increase in students bringing dependents to the UK. These changes are expected to have a significant impact on net migration, with approximately 153,000 visas granted to dependents of sponsored students in the year ending September 2023.

The visa crackdown responds to record-high immigration figures released by the Office for National Statistics, which reported a net migration of 672,000 to the UK. India dominates several visa categories, including skilled workers, medical professionals, and students.

The Rishi Sunak-led government has introduced a new law in the parliament that seeks to curb immigration by imposing stricter working visa rules, ahead of the general elections next year.

The Rishi Sunak-led government has introduced a new law in the parliament that seeks to curb immigration by imposing stricter working visa rules, ahead of the general elections next year. The bill tabled on Monday (Dec 4) increases the salary threshold for foreign workers and tightens rules for the inclusion of family members as dependents. For example, a person now has to earn £38,700 ($48,900) to qualify for a work visa, which was earlier £26,000. Speaking at the House of Commons on Tuesday, Home Secretary James Cleverly said that the aim is to reduce annual net immigration by 300,000 “in future years,” without setting out a precise timetable. The move is estimated to impact around 300,000 individuals who would no longer be able to access the UK's Skilled Worker Visa based on the new measures, the UK home office said. Defending the move, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak termed it “radical measures” to lower migration and ensured that it benefits the United Kingdom. "Immigration is excessively high. Today, we are taking decisive action to reduce it. These measures will guarantee that immigration always serves the best interests of the UK," he said on X. We've just announced the biggest ever cut in net migration. No Prime Minister has done this before in history. But the level of net migration is too high and it has to change. I am determined to do it. — Rishi Sunak (@RishiSunak) December 4, 2023 × In another online statement, Sunak said, “We've just announced the biggest ever cut in net migration. No Prime Minister has done this before in history.” The key measures to address immigration concerns include Dependent restrictions The government aims to reduce migration by restricting the entry of dependents into the UK. This forms a crucial part of their strategy to manage and control immigration. Salary threshold increases Minimum salaries for overseas workers and British or settled individuals sponsoring family members will undergo a substantial increase. The earning threshold for overseas workers will experience a nearly 50% surge, rising from £26,200 to £38,700. A similar increase will apply to British citizens sponsoring family members. Health and care visa tightening The Health and Care visa, previously a significant avenue for care workers and their dependents, will face new restrictions. Overseas care workers will no longer be permitted to bring dependants to the UK. Additionally, care providers can only sponsor migrant workers involved in activities regulated by the Care Quality Commission. Also read | Senior US official discusses alleged foiled plot to kill Pannun during visit to India Crackdown on cut-price labour The government plans to eliminate the 20 per cent salary discount for shortage occupations and introduce an Immigration Salary List. This list will be reviewed by the Migration Advisory Committee to align with the increased salary thresholds, addressing concerns related to cut-price labour. Also read | ‘Implosion’ within Conservatives, above 40% supporters turned away under Sunak: Poll Student dependent restrictions Measures have been implemented to address the increase in students bringing dependents to the UK. These changes are expected to have a significant impact on net migration, with approximately 153,000 visas granted to dependents of sponsored students in the year ending September 2023. The visa crackdown responds to record-high immigration figures released by the Office for National Statistics, which reported a net migration of 672,000 to the UK. India dominates several visa categories, including skilled workers, medical professionals, and students.

UK govt introduces tighter work visa rules, Rishi Sunak calls it ‘radical measure’ to curb immigration

Hindenburg’s report alleging corporate fraud against the Adani Group did not affect the US government’s decision to extend a container terminal project in Sri Lanka to the Indian billionaire, Bloomberg reported, quoting a senior American government official.

He said that the report was not relevant with regards to the International Development Finance Corp (DFC) extending around $553 million for a container terminal project in Colombo in November.

The Colombo terminal project is partly owned by the Adani Group, which has a 51 per cent stake in the west container terminal,&nbsp;whereas the east terminal is run by China Merchants Port Holdings Co Ltd.

The official from the DFC told Bloomberg that the accusations in the report, labelling Adani's actions as "the largest con in corporate history," were found not to be applicable to Adani Ports &amp; Special Economic Zone Ltd., the subsidiary leading the Sri Lankan initiative.

The DFC handed out the project after conducting due diligence on the conglomerate, the official was quoted as saying.

<h2>US agency to continue monitor Indian firm&nbsp;</h2>

The US agency will also continue to monitor the Indian firm to ensure the US government doesn’t unintentionally support financial misconduct or other inappropriate behaviour, the official said, noting that the US must approach infrastructure projects differently than China

The Adani Group has been embroiled in a controversy ever since US-based Hindenburg Research report claimed that it indulged in corporate misgovernance, stock manipulation, among others.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/around-two-civilians-killed-for-every-hamas-fighter-in-gaza-admits-israeli-military-666395">Around two civilian deaths for every Hamas fighter killed in Gaza, admits Israeli military</a>

The report wiped out around $100 billion from the Adani Group's market value earlier this year.

<h2>Adani Group performing well in stockmarket</h2>

The Adani Group, however, has continued to deny the allegations featured in the report.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/extreme-weather-halts-iphone-production-in-india-foxconn-and-pegatron-grapple-with-disruptions-666357">Extreme weather halts iPhone production in India: Foxconn and Pegatron grapple with disruptions</a>

Though the Indian agencies have launched a probe into the wrongdoings, they have not yet uncovered any of the claims mentioned in the report. Lately, Adani stocks have rallied, and Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Ltd. has gained 7.4 per cent so far this year.

The $553 million in private-sector loans for the West Container Terminal is expected to expand the capacity of Colombo Port, which is operating at more than 90 per cent capacity utilisation since 2021.

(With inputs from agencies)

Hindenburg’s report alleging corporate fraud against the Adani Group did not affect the US government’s decision to extend a container terminal project in Sri Lanka to the Indian billionaire, Bloomberg reported, quoting a senior American government official.

Hindenburg’s report alleging corporate fraud against the Adani Group did not affect the US government’s decision to extend a container terminal project in Sri Lanka to the Indian billionaire, Bloomberg reported, quoting a senior American government official. He said that the report was not relevant with regards to the International Development Finance Corp (DFC) extending around $553 million for a container terminal project in Colombo in November. The Colombo terminal project is partly owned by the Adani Group, which has a 51 per cent stake in the west container terminal, whereas the east terminal is run by China Merchants Port Holdings Co Ltd. The official from the DFC told Bloomberg that the accusations in the report, labelling Adani's actions as "the largest con in corporate history," were found not to be applicable to Adani Ports & Special Economic Zone Ltd., the subsidiary leading the Sri Lankan initiative. The DFC handed out the project after conducting due diligence on the conglomerate, the official was quoted as saying. US agency to continue monitor Indian firm The US agency will also continue to monitor the Indian firm to ensure the US government doesn’t unintentionally support financial misconduct or other inappropriate behaviour, the official said, noting that the US must approach infrastructure projects differently than China The Adani Group has been embroiled in a controversy ever since US-based Hindenburg Research report claimed that it indulged in corporate misgovernance, stock manipulation, among others. Also read | Around two civilian deaths for every Hamas fighter killed in Gaza, admits Israeli military The report wiped out around $100 billion from the Adani Group's market value earlier this year. Adani Group performing well in stockmarket The Adani Group, however, has continued to deny the allegations featured in the report. Also read | Extreme weather halts iPhone production in India: Foxconn and Pegatron grapple with disruptions Though the Indian agencies have launched a probe into the wrongdoings, they have not yet uncovered any of the claims mentioned in the report. Lately, Adani stocks have rallied, and Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Ltd. has gained 7.4 per cent so far this year. The $553 million in private-sector loans for the West Container Terminal is expected to expand the capacity of Colombo Port, which is operating at more than 90 per cent capacity utilisation since 2021. (With inputs from agencies)

Hindenburg report did not impact US govt’s decision to finance Adani’s terminal venture in Colombo: Report

Restaurants across the world have often employed innovative ways to draw as many customers as they can. From providing a great ambient experience to serving some lip-smacking dishes, eateries have over the years gained patrons for their extraordinary services.

However, in Japan, a wave of customers is flocking&nbsp;to a restaurant in Nagoya not because of the dishes they serve, but rather for their bizarre services.

This eatery, called Shachihoko-ya izakaya, serves snacks along with a hearty side of slaps given by its female waitresses.

The restaurant is situated in Nagoya's most popular nightlife quarter Nishiki Sanchome, which is known for the costumes worn by its staff.

For just 300 yen ($2), kimono-dressed women will slap a willing customer in the face with their&nbsp;palm, over and over again.

<h2>People flock to get their cheeks red&nbsp;</h2>

The restaurant is said to have registered brisk business of late, as an increasing number of Japanese men and women, including curious foreigners, want to try the painful experience.

If the customer has any staff specific in mind to turn their cheeks red, then they have to shell out 500 yen ($3.40), local media reported.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/l7fZqrWyjQY?si=NvGxh1mLwnTAjkA-" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Sometimes the slapping fest goes so hard that one time a man had to be wheeled out even before a line of the patron-striking waitresses could finish their turns.

However, the customers instead of getting angry, become more excited, with local media reports even claiming that some even felt at peace after such a painful experience.

“The harder the female staff slapped them, the more excited the patrons became,” Chinese language media publication Liberty Times Net report claimed.

<h2>Videos go viral&nbsp;</h2>

“Not only were the patrons not angry, but they appeared to feel more relaxed after getting hit. They would even thank the staff member who smacked them.”

However, the restaurant decided to discontinue this bizarre service last month after some of the videos of the slapping fest went viral, drawing the attention of local authorities.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/30-year-old-youtuber-jailed-for-six-months-for-staging-plane-crash-to-get-likes-666302">Watch: 30-year-old YouTuber jailed for six months for staging plane crash to get likes</a>

Last month, it issued a statement on social media X, urging people not to come by expecting to get slapped.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/video-house-explosion-rocks-virginia-neighbourhood-after-suspect-fires-flare-gun-666349">Video: House explosion rocks Virginia neighbourhood after suspect fires flare gun</a>

“Shachihoko-ya currently does not offer slaps. We appreciate the attention it has received today, but we cannot accommodate visits with the intention of receiving slaps,” the English translation of the message read.

“We did not expect old videos to go viral like this, so please understand before coming.”

Restaurants across the world have often employed innovative ways to draw as many customers as they can. From providing a great ambient experience to serving some lip-smacking dishes, eateries have over the years gained patrons for their extraordinary services.

Restaurants across the world have often employed innovative ways to draw as many customers as they can. From providing a great ambient experience to serving some lip-smacking dishes, eateries have over the years gained patrons for their extraordinary services. However, in Japan, a wave of customers is flocking to a restaurant in Nagoya not because of the dishes they serve, but rather for their bizarre services. This eatery, called Shachihoko-ya izakaya, serves snacks along with a hearty side of slaps given by its female waitresses. The restaurant is situated in Nagoya's most popular nightlife quarter Nishiki Sanchome, which is known for the costumes worn by its staff. For just 300 yen ($2), kimono-dressed women will slap a willing customer in the face with their palm, over and over again. People flock to get their cheeks red The restaurant is said to have registered brisk business of late, as an increasing number of Japanese men and women, including curious foreigners, want to try the painful experience. If the customer has any staff specific in mind to turn their cheeks red, then they have to shell out 500 yen ($3.40), local media reported. × Sometimes the slapping fest goes so hard that one time a man had to be wheeled out even before a line of the patron-striking waitresses could finish their turns. However, the customers instead of getting angry, become more excited, with local media reports even claiming that some even felt at peace after such a painful experience. “The harder the female staff slapped them, the more excited the patrons became,” Chinese language media publication Liberty Times Net report claimed. Videos go viral “Not only were the patrons not angry, but they appeared to feel more relaxed after getting hit. They would even thank the staff member who smacked them.” However, the restaurant decided to discontinue this bizarre service last month after some of the videos of the slapping fest went viral, drawing the attention of local authorities. Also read | Watch: 30-year-old YouTuber jailed for six months for staging plane crash to get likes Last month, it issued a statement on social media X, urging people not to come by expecting to get slapped. Also read | Video: House explosion rocks Virginia neighbourhood after suspect fires flare gun “Shachihoko-ya currently does not offer slaps. We appreciate the attention it has received today, but we cannot accommodate visits with the intention of receiving slaps,” the English translation of the message read. “We did not expect old videos to go viral like this, so please understand before coming.”

Watch: In this Japanese restaurant, people pay not for food, but to get slapped for just $2

&nbsp;People evacuated buildings in the Philippine capital Manila on Tuesday after an earthquake of magnitude 5.9 struck off Luzon, according to the state seismology agency and images shared by media on social media.

The Philippines' seismology agency said on X social media platform that it did not expect damage, but warned of aftershocks. It recorded the earthquake at magnitude 5.9, with a depth of 79 kilometres (49.09 miles).

Images shared by local media on X showed government workers leaving senate, presidential palace, justice ministry buildings. Students also vacated universities.

The European-Mediterranean Seismological Centre had earlier recorded the quake at magnitude 6.2 before downgrading to 6.0.

People evacuated buildings in the Philippine capital Manila on Tuesday after an earthquake of magnitude 5.9 struck off Luzon, according to the state seismology agency and images shared by media on social media.

People evacuated buildings in the Philippine capital Manila on Tuesday after an earthquake of magnitude 5.9 struck off Luzon, according to the state seismology agency and images shared by media on social media. The Philippines' seismology agency said on X social media platform that it did not expect damage, but warned of aftershocks. It recorded the earthquake at magnitude 5.9, with a depth of 79 kilometres (49.09 miles). Images shared by local media on X showed government workers leaving senate, presidential palace, justice ministry buildings. Students also vacated universities. The European-Mediterranean Seismological Centre had earlier recorded the quake at magnitude 6.2 before downgrading to 6.0.

Buildings evacuated as earthquake felt in Philippine capital

In an attempt to have discussions on matters of mutual interest with Iranian high officials, the president of Cuba traveled to Tehran. The Saadabad cultural complex in northern Tehran served as the venue for the welcoming ceremony.

Cuban President in Iran for bilateral talks | Raisi officially welcomes Cuban counterpart in Tehran

Cybergroups linked to Russia and China reportedly hacked into the UK’s most hazardous nuclear plant Sellafield, the Guardian news outlet has claimed.

It is unknown when it came under cyberattack, but the report claimed that the authorities first detected that their systems were compromised in 2015 when they detected dangerous malware—software that is used to attack systems— in their computer systems at the plant in West Cumbria.

Since then, the senior staff at the nuclear site had been covering up that their systems were breached, the paper further claimed quoting sources.

However, it is still not clear whether the malware upon being spotted was neutralised at that time.

<h2>Russia and China actors linked to cyberattack</h2>

The paper suggests that malware may have leaked some of Sellafield’s most sensitive activities, such as moving radioactive waste, monitoring for leaks of dangerous material and checking for fires.

“It is likely foreign hackers have accessed the highest echelons of confidential material at the site, which sprawls across 6 sq km (2 sq miles) on the Cumbrian coast and is one of the most hazardous in the world,” the Guardian reported citing sources.

The Guardian's expose is&nbsp;part of its year-long investigation into cyber hacking, radioactive contamination and toxic workplace culture at Sellafield.

Sellafield is controlled by the government’s Nuclear Decommissioning Authority, and&nbsp;is located in northwest England and has 11,000 employees.

<h2>Govt deems report 'inaccurate'&nbsp;</h2>

However, the allegations were promptly denied by the British government and the nuclear regulator deeming Guardian’s investigation as “inaccurate”.

“Our monitoring systems are robust and we have a high degree of confidence that no such malware exists on our system,” the government said in a statement.

“This was confirmed to the Guardian well in advance of publication, along with rebuttals to a number of other inaccuracies in their reporting.”

In a separate statement, Britain’s Office for Nuclear Regulation (ONR) also said it had seen no evidence that state actors had hacked its systems as the paper had described.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pak-based-khalistani-terrorist-lakhbir-singh-rode-dies-of-heart-attack-666279">Pak-based Khalistani terrorist Lakhbir Singh Rode dies of ‘heart attack’</a>

But the regulator said Sellafield was currently not meeting certain high standards of cyber security it required, adding that it had placed the plant under “significantly enhanced attention”.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uae-leader-holds-damage-control-conference-after-making-no-science-fossil-claim-666253">UAE leader holds damage control conf after making ‘no-science’ fossil claim</a>

“Some specific matters are subject to an ongoing investigation process, so we are unable to comment further at this time,” the ONR said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Cybergroups linked to Russia and China reportedly hacked into the UK’s most hazardous nuclear plant Sellafield, the Guardian news outlet has claimed. It is unknown when it came under cyberattack, but the report claimed that the authorities first detected that their systems were compromised in 2015 when they detected dangerous malware—software that is used to attack systems— in their computer systems at the plant in West Cumbria.

Cybergroups linked to Russia and China reportedly hacked into the UK’s most hazardous nuclear plant Sellafield, the Guardian news outlet has claimed. It is unknown when it came under cyberattack, but the report claimed that the authorities first detected that their systems were compromised in 2015 when they detected dangerous malware—software that is used to attack systems— in their computer systems at the plant in West Cumbria. Since then, the senior staff at the nuclear site had been covering up that their systems were breached, the paper further claimed quoting sources. However, it is still not clear whether the malware upon being spotted was neutralised at that time. Russia and China actors linked to cyberattack The paper suggests that malware may have leaked some of Sellafield’s most sensitive activities, such as moving radioactive waste, monitoring for leaks of dangerous material and checking for fires. “It is likely foreign hackers have accessed the highest echelons of confidential material at the site, which sprawls across 6 sq km (2 sq miles) on the Cumbrian coast and is one of the most hazardous in the world,” the Guardian reported citing sources. The Guardian's expose is part of its year-long investigation into cyber hacking, radioactive contamination and toxic workplace culture at Sellafield. Sellafield is controlled by the government’s Nuclear Decommissioning Authority, and is located in northwest England and has 11,000 employees. Govt deems report 'inaccurate' However, the allegations were promptly denied by the British government and the nuclear regulator deeming Guardian’s investigation as “inaccurate”. “Our monitoring systems are robust and we have a high degree of confidence that no such malware exists on our system,” the government said in a statement. “This was confirmed to the Guardian well in advance of publication, along with rebuttals to a number of other inaccuracies in their reporting.” In a separate statement, Britain’s Office for Nuclear Regulation (ONR) also said it had seen no evidence that state actors had hacked its systems as the paper had described. Also read | Pak-based Khalistani terrorist Lakhbir Singh Rode dies of ‘heart attack’ But the regulator said Sellafield was currently not meeting certain high standards of cyber security it required, adding that it had placed the plant under “significantly enhanced attention”. Also read | UAE leader holds damage control conf after making ‘no-science’ fossil claim “Some specific matters are subject to an ongoing investigation process, so we are unable to comment further at this time,” the ONR said. (With inputs from agencies)

Was UK’s Sellafield nuclear plant hacked? Rishi Sunak govt tries to paper over explosive report

6 Very Good Reasons Not To Shower Every Day 

Daily showers do not improve your health, could cause skin problems or other health issues — and, importantly, they waste a lot of water. Also, additives in shampoos, conditioners, and soaps may cause problems of their own, such as allergic reactions. 

According to experts, a delicate balance of microorganisms on the skin needs to be maintained. If it's disrupted with a harsh soap, the skin is exposed to more problematic organisms, thereby reducing immunity. 

It is said that washing hair every day can strip it of natural oils, which can make your hair dull, dry, or frizzy.  

A long, hot shower can neutralise natural oils from your skin, which protect it and keep it hydrated and healthy. Experts say that dry, cracked skin can allow bacteria and allergens to breach the barrier healthy skin should provide, leading to skin infections, acne, or allergic reactions. 

The scalp is a delicate ecosystem. If it's washed too frequently, it loses its protective oils, and if it's not washed frequently enough, you can experience a buildup. 

The Washington Post reported way back in 2015 that around 20% of water consumed in each shower goes unused. This is due to behavioural waste, which occurs when bathers use their time comfortably and efficiently while waiting for hot water to reach the shower.

6 Very Good Reasons Not To Shower Every Day

Eleven climbers died in a volcanic eruption in Indonesia on Monday (Dec 4), forcing the authorities to halt their search operation for the remaining missing 12 people.

The eruption of the Marapi volcano in West Sumatra began on Sunday and according to local media reports around 75 climbers were stuck at that time.

The 2,891-metre-high volcano spewed ash as high as 3 km (9,843 ft) into the air, prompting the authorities to raise an alert to the second-highest level and prohibiting residents from going within 3 km (1.86 miles) of the crater.

<h2>Ash blankets villages&nbsp;</h2>

A video circulating on social media showed the climbers were evacuated to a shelter, their faces and hair smeared with volcanic dust and rain.

Falling ash covered several villages and blocked sunlight, National Disaster Management Agency spokesperson Abdul Muhari said.

Authorities distributed masks and urged residents to wear eyeglasses to protect them from volcanic ash, he said.

While the authorities managed to rescue 28 climbers, search operation was initiated to rescue the other climbers.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BREAKING?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BREAKING</a>: Massive volcanic eruption of the Marapi volcano in Indonesia trapped 42 climbers in the area 
 
- Indonesia’s Mount Marapi has erupted on Sunday 
and began releasing ash over the local villages. 
 
- 70 climbers were on the mountain when the eruption happened and they got… <a href="https://t.co/vrvpjTUKXt">pic.twitter.com/vrvpjTUKXt</a>
— Terrence Daniels (Captain 🍀 Planet) (@Terrence_STR) <a href="https://twitter.com/Terrence_STR/status/1731376754160497123?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 3, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<h2>Rescue ops halted due to small eruption&nbsp;</h2>

On Monday, the rescue officials found 11 climbers dead, while three more survivors were found alive.

"There are 26 people who have not been evacuated, we have found 14 of them, three were found alive and 11 were found dead," said Abdul Malik, head of Padang Search and Rescue Agency, speaking a day after the eruption, reports AFP news agency.

Jodi Haryawan, spokesperson for the local search and rescue team, said that the search was suspended as a small eruption was taking place on Monday.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/yemens-houthis-say-they-attacked-israeli-ships-in-red-sea-665844">Yemen's Houthis say they attacked Israeli ships in Red Sea</a>

"It's too dangerous if we continue searching now," he added.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-york-queens-stabbing-attack-four-killed-as-police-shoots-suspect-dead-665821">New York stabbing attack: Four killed in Queens as police shoots suspect dead</a>

Forty-nine climbers were evacuated from the area earlier Monday and many were being treated for burns, he added.

Rudy Rinaldi, head of the West Sumatra Disaster Mitigation Agency, told AFP that some of the rescued hikers were receiving medical treatment.

"Some suffered from burns because it was very hot, and they have been taken to the hospital," he was quoted as saying.

"Those who are injured were the ones who got closer to the crater," he said.

About 1,400 people live on Marapi's slopes in Rubai and Gobah Cumantiang, the nearest villages about 5 to 6 kilometres (3.1 to 3.7 miles) from the peak.

Indonesia is estimated to have 130 active volcanoes.

The Indonesian archipelago sits on the Pacific Ring of Fire, where the meeting of continental plates causes high volcanic and seismic activity.

(With inputs from agencies)

Eleven climbers died in a volcanic eruption in Indonesia on Monday (Dec 4), forcing the authorities to halt their search operation for the remaining missing 12 people.

Eleven climbers died in a volcanic eruption in Indonesia on Monday (Dec 4), forcing the authorities to halt their search operation for the remaining missing 12 people. The eruption of the Marapi volcano in West Sumatra began on Sunday and according to local media reports around 75 climbers were stuck at that time. The 2,891-metre-high volcano spewed ash as high as 3 km (9,843 ft) into the air, prompting the authorities to raise an alert to the second-highest level and prohibiting residents from going within 3 km (1.86 miles) of the crater. Ash blankets villages A video circulating on social media showed the climbers were evacuated to a shelter, their faces and hair smeared with volcanic dust and rain. Falling ash covered several villages and blocked sunlight, National Disaster Management Agency spokesperson Abdul Muhari said. Authorities distributed masks and urged residents to wear eyeglasses to protect them from volcanic ash, he said. While the authorities managed to rescue 28 climbers, search operation was initiated to rescue the other climbers. #BREAKING: Massive volcanic eruption of the Marapi volcano in Indonesia trapped 42 climbers in the area - Indonesia’s Mount Marapi has erupted on Sunday and began releasing ash over the local villages. - 70 climbers were on the mountain when the eruption happened and they got… pic.twitter.com/vrvpjTUKXt — Terrence Daniels (Captain 🍀 Planet) (@Terrence_STR) December 3, 2023 × Rescue ops halted due to small eruption On Monday, the rescue officials found 11 climbers dead, while three more survivors were found alive. "There are 26 people who have not been evacuated, we have found 14 of them, three were found alive and 11 were found dead," said Abdul Malik, head of Padang Search and Rescue Agency, speaking a day after the eruption, reports AFP news agency. Jodi Haryawan, spokesperson for the local search and rescue team, said that the search was suspended as a small eruption was taking place on Monday. Also read | Yemen's Houthis say they attacked Israeli ships in Red Sea "It's too dangerous if we continue searching now," he added. Also read | New York stabbing attack: Four killed in Queens as police shoots suspect dead Forty-nine climbers were evacuated from the area earlier Monday and many were being treated for burns, he added. Rudy Rinaldi, head of the West Sumatra Disaster Mitigation Agency, told AFP that some of the rescued hikers were receiving medical treatment. "Some suffered from burns because it was very hot, and they have been taken to the hospital," he was quoted as saying. "Those who are injured were the ones who got closer to the crater," he said. About 1,400 people live on Marapi's slopes in Rubai and Gobah Cumantiang, the nearest villages about 5 to 6 kilometres (3.1 to 3.7 miles) from the peak. Indonesia is estimated to have 130 active volcanoes. The Indonesian archipelago sits on the Pacific Ring of Fire, where the meeting of continental plates causes high volcanic and seismic activity. (With inputs from agencies)

11 climbers die in volcanic eruption in Indonesia, search ops halted due to lava discharge

China’s top-tier defence contractors outpaced their US counterparts in armed sales for the fourth straight year in 2022, Swedish think tank Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) said in its report on Monday (Dec 4).

However, despite selling more than the US, China was still at the second spot in combined arms sales, the annual report released by SIPRI stated.

Chinese companies combined arms sales accounted for 18 per cent share, while the US maintained its top spot with a staggering 51 per cent of the market share.

The report cited supply chain issues and labour shortages stemming from Russia’s war in Ukraine and the COVID-19 pandemic among major causes preventing US contractors from significantly ramping up production capacity, despite a surge in orders as Kyiv fights back against the Russian invasion.

The SIPRI&nbsp;report, titled ‘Top100 Arms Producing and Military Services Companies, 2022’&nbsp;listed the top eight Chinese arms producers which registered a stellar growth last year.

<h2>Eight Chinese companies listed in report&nbsp;</h2>

According to the report, six of those listees registered an increase in revenue last year, while three made it to the top 10.

The combined revenue for these eight Chinese companies grew by 2.7 per cent to $108 billion, a fourth consecutive annual increase.

China’s largest defence contractor and land systems specialist Norinco ranked seventh on the list, with revenue rising by 4.4 per cent to $22.1 billion last year, the report noted.

The Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC), the country's No 2 weapons company and leading military aircraft maker, was ranked eighth with a 4.7 per cent revenue hike, to $20.6 billion, and China South Industries Group took the 21st spot on the list.

<h2>Chinese firms looking to expand export market&nbsp;</h2>

Among all the Chinese companies, China South Industries Group witnessed the most rapid growth in 2022 of 12 per cent to $6.5 billion, the report said.

“This is supported by its rising military spending, which has been on [an] uninterrupted increase since 1995,” Xiao Liang, a researcher with the SIPRI military expenditure and arms production programme, told SCMP news outlet.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/11-climbers-die-in-volcanic-eruption-in-indonesia-search-ops-halted-due-to-lava-discharge-665881">11 climbers die in volcanic eruption in Indonesia, search ops halted due to lava discharge</a>

“AVIC, China’s main aircraft producer, saw revenue rise for the second consecutive year, reflecting increased production of its fourth-generation combat aircraft and the fielding of fifth-generation combat aircraft, that is the J-20.”

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/prominent-jailed-hong-kong-activist-agnes-chow-moves-to-canada-breaks-silence-after-over-2-years-665978">Prominent jailed Hong Kong activist Agnes Chow moves to Canada, breaks silence after more than 2 years</a>

The study noted that efforts undertaken by these Chinese companies to expand their export market which traditionally relied on domestic sales.

(With inputs from agencies)

China’s top-tier defence contractors outpaced their US counterparts in armed sales for the fourth straight year in 2022, Swedish think tank Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) said in its report on Monday (Dec 4).

China’s top-tier defence contractors outpaced their US counterparts in armed sales for the fourth straight year in 2022, Swedish think tank Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) said in its report on Monday (Dec 4). However, despite selling more than the US, China was still at the second spot in combined arms sales, the annual report released by SIPRI stated. Chinese companies combined arms sales accounted for 18 per cent share, while the US maintained its top spot with a staggering 51 per cent of the market share. The report cited supply chain issues and labour shortages stemming from Russia’s war in Ukraine and the COVID-19 pandemic among major causes preventing US contractors from significantly ramping up production capacity, despite a surge in orders as Kyiv fights back against the Russian invasion. The SIPRI report, titled ‘Top100 Arms Producing and Military Services Companies, 2022’ listed the top eight Chinese arms producers which registered a stellar growth last year. Eight Chinese companies listed in report According to the report, six of those listees registered an increase in revenue last year, while three made it to the top 10. The combined revenue for these eight Chinese companies grew by 2.7 per cent to $108 billion, a fourth consecutive annual increase. China’s largest defence contractor and land systems specialist Norinco ranked seventh on the list, with revenue rising by 4.4 per cent to $22.1 billion last year, the report noted. The Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC), the country's No 2 weapons company and leading military aircraft maker, was ranked eighth with a 4.7 per cent revenue hike, to $20.6 billion, and China South Industries Group took the 21st spot on the list. Chinese firms looking to expand export market Among all the Chinese companies, China South Industries Group witnessed the most rapid growth in 2022 of 12 per cent to $6.5 billion, the report said. “This is supported by its rising military spending, which has been on [an] uninterrupted increase since 1995,” Xiao Liang, a researcher with the SIPRI military expenditure and arms production programme, told SCMP news outlet. Also read | 11 climbers die in volcanic eruption in Indonesia, search ops halted due to lava discharge “AVIC, China’s main aircraft producer, saw revenue rise for the second consecutive year, reflecting increased production of its fourth-generation combat aircraft and the fielding of fifth-generation combat aircraft, that is the J-20.” Also read | Prominent jailed Hong Kong activist Agnes Chow moves to Canada, breaks silence after more than 2 years The study noted that efforts undertaken by these Chinese companies to expand their export market which traditionally relied on domestic sales. (With inputs from agencies)

China defence contractors register stellar profit for fourth consecutive year in a row: SIPRI

The man who stabbed a tourist to death near the Eiffel Tower in Paris swore allegiance to the Islamic State group in a video posted on social media, French anti-terrorist prosecutors said Sunday.

Known to the authorities as a radicalised Islamist who had social media connections to perpetrators of other recent attacks in France, the attacker Armand Rajabpour-Miyandoab had also been subject to close psychological surveillance for mental health issues, senior prosecutor Jean-Francois Ricard told reporters.

He added that the man's mother had reported concerns about him as recently as October, but there was insufficient proof at the time to take legal action.

The attack late Saturday came as France is at its highest alert level against the background of the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas and following a series of apparent lone-wolf attacks in the country.

Identified as Armand Rajabpour-Miyandoab, the knife attacker is a French national, born in 1997 to Iranian parents.

He killed a 23-year-old man, identified as a German-Filipino citizen, with two blows from a hammer and four from a knife at around 9:30 pm (2030 GMT).

Shouting "Allahu Akbar" ("God is greatest"), Rajabpour-Miyandoab fled over the Bir Hakeim bridge across the river Seine after a taxi driver intervened.

Meeting a police patrol on the other side, he claimed to be wearing an explosive belt before running again, striking two passers-by -- a 66-year-old British citizen and a 60-year-old French person -- with the hammer.

He was finally stopped with two shots from a taser and taken into custody.

Ministers led by Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne gathered for a security meeting on Sunday, with the head of government writing on X, formerly Twitter, "We will not give in to terrorism."

<h2>Contact with other attackers&nbsp;</h2>

"In late October 2023, the mother of the attacker reported concerns about her son's behaviour, as he had turned in on himself. But there was nothing allowing for a new prosecution," Ricard said.

An X account opened by Rajabpour-Miyandoab in early October showed "many posts about Hamas, Gaza or Palestine more generally", he added.

It was there that the attacker posted a video in Arabic presenting himself as an Islamic State fighter based in Afghanistan.

"In this video, he swore allegiance to the Islamic State and expressed his support to jihadists... in Africa, Iraq, Syria, the Sinai... Yemen or Pakistan," Ricard said.

Rajabpour-Miyandoab, whose family is not religious, converted to Islam at 18 and began consuming vast amounts of IS propaganda, according to prosecutors.

He had plans to join the Islamic State group in Iraq or Syria in 2016 and was friends on Facebook with a man who went on to kill two police officers in their home in Magnanville, outside Paris -- although the two did not exchange messages.

Later that year, he was arrested for planning an attack, eventually serving four years in prison and under close watch following his release.

That surveillance was reinforced based on his social media contacts, including with the future killer of teacher Samuel Paty, beheaded outside his school in 2020 by an Islamist attacker.

Rajabpour-Miyandoab was also under compulsory psychiatric treatment for mental health troubles until April this year, Ricard said.

Health Minister Aurelien Rousseau had earlier said Rajabpour-Miyandoab was "being monitored in a way that did not mean he was hospitalised" for his mental health issues.

"As often in these cases, there's a mixture of an ideology, an easily influenced person and, unfortunately, psychiatry," he added.

As well as Rajabpour-Miyandoab himself, three people were being held in custody on Sunday afternoon, Ricard said, "belonging to the family or the social circle of the perpetrator".

<h2>High tensions&nbsp;</h2>

Following Sunday's security meeting, Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin urged that authorities "should be able to request (or) demand compulsory treatment" for people with mental health issues who are believed to be radicalised.

France remains "under the threat of radical Islamism for the long term", Darmanin added, calling for "a very strong penal response".

France has suffered several attacks by Islamist extremists, including the November 2015 suicide and gun attacks in Paris claimed by the Islamic State group in which 130 people were killed.

There had been a relative lull in recent years, even as officials have warned that the threat remains.

But tensions have risen in France, home to large Jewish and Muslim populations, following Hamas'&nbsp;unprecedented attack on Israel on October 7 and Israel's subsequent bombardment of the Gaza Strip. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

The man who stabbed a tourist to death near the Eiffel Tower in Paris swore allegiance to the Islamic State group in a video posted on social media, French anti-terrorist prosecutors said Sunday.

The man who stabbed a tourist to death near the Eiffel Tower in Paris swore allegiance to the Islamic State group in a video posted on social media, French anti-terrorist prosecutors said Sunday. Known to the authorities as a radicalised Islamist who had social media connections to perpetrators of other recent attacks in France, the attacker Armand Rajabpour-Miyandoab had also been subject to close psychological surveillance for mental health issues, senior prosecutor Jean-Francois Ricard told reporters. He added that the man's mother had reported concerns about him as recently as October, but there was insufficient proof at the time to take legal action. The attack late Saturday came as France is at its highest alert level against the background of the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas and following a series of apparent lone-wolf attacks in the country. Identified as Armand Rajabpour-Miyandoab, the knife attacker is a French national, born in 1997 to Iranian parents. He killed a 23-year-old man, identified as a German-Filipino citizen, with two blows from a hammer and four from a knife at around 9:30 pm (2030 GMT). Shouting "Allahu Akbar" ("God is greatest"), Rajabpour-Miyandoab fled over the Bir Hakeim bridge across the river Seine after a taxi driver intervened. Meeting a police patrol on the other side, he claimed to be wearing an explosive belt before running again, striking two passers-by -- a 66-year-old British citizen and a 60-year-old French person -- with the hammer. He was finally stopped with two shots from a taser and taken into custody. Ministers led by Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne gathered for a security meeting on Sunday, with the head of government writing on X, formerly Twitter, "We will not give in to terrorism." Contact with other attackers "In late October 2023, the mother of the attacker reported concerns about her son's behaviour, as he had turned in on himself. But there was nothing allowing for a new prosecution," Ricard said. An X account opened by Rajabpour-Miyandoab in early October showed "many posts about Hamas, Gaza or Palestine more generally", he added. It was there that the attacker posted a video in Arabic presenting himself as an Islamic State fighter based in Afghanistan. "In this video, he swore allegiance to the Islamic State and expressed his support to jihadists... in Africa, Iraq, Syria, the Sinai... Yemen or Pakistan," Ricard said. Rajabpour-Miyandoab, whose family is not religious, converted to Islam at 18 and began consuming vast amounts of IS propaganda, according to prosecutors. He had plans to join the Islamic State group in Iraq or Syria in 2016 and was friends on Facebook with a man who went on to kill two police officers in their home in Magnanville, outside Paris -- although the two did not exchange messages. Later that year, he was arrested for planning an attack, eventually serving four years in prison and under close watch following his release. That surveillance was reinforced based on his social media contacts, including with the future killer of teacher Samuel Paty, beheaded outside his school in 2020 by an Islamist attacker. Rajabpour-Miyandoab was also under compulsory psychiatric treatment for mental health troubles until April this year, Ricard said. Health Minister Aurelien Rousseau had earlier said Rajabpour-Miyandoab was "being monitored in a way that did not mean he was hospitalised" for his mental health issues. "As often in these cases, there's a mixture of an ideology, an easily influenced person and, unfortunately, psychiatry," he added. As well as Rajabpour-Miyandoab himself, three people were being held in custody on Sunday afternoon, Ricard said, "belonging to the family or the social circle of the perpetrator". High tensions Following Sunday's security meeting, Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin urged that authorities "should be able to request (or) demand compulsory treatment" for people with mental health issues who are believed to be radicalised. France remains "under the threat of radical Islamism for the long term", Darmanin added, calling for "a very strong penal response". France has suffered several attacks by Islamist extremists, including the November 2015 suicide and gun attacks in Paris claimed by the Islamic State group in which 130 people were killed. There had been a relative lull in recent years, even as officials have warned that the threat remains. But tensions have risen in France, home to large Jewish and Muslim populations, following Hamas' unprecedented attack on Israel on October 7 and Israel's subsequent bombardment of the Gaza Strip. (With inputs from agencies)

Paris knife attacker 'swore allegiance to Islamic State'

More than 700 Palestinians were allegedly killed in Israeli air raids in the last 24 hours as the Israeli Army intensified strikes in southern Gaza.

Ismael al-Thawabteh, the director general of the government media office in Gaza, told Al Jazeera on Sunday (Dec 3) that over 700 Palestinians have been killed since Israel resumed bombardment after a seven-day truce ended on Friday.

Heavy bombardment was reported in and around the enclave’s second-largest city of Khan Younis as the military asked civilians to evacuate from the areas of the city and head south to Rafaj or the west.

<h2>1.8 million displaced, over 15,000 killed&nbsp;</h2>

As the Israeli strikes gained pace, the UN’s OCHA humanitarian agency revised its figure saying that an estimated 1.8 million people are internally displaced, up from a previous figure of 1.7 million.

Since the start of the war, 15,523 Palestinians had been killed, the health ministry in Hamas-run Gaza said, adding that 70 per cent of the dead were women and children.

An estimated 1.8 million people are internally displaced, up from a previous figure of 1.7 million, according to the UN’s OCHA humanitarian agency. Images showed Palestinians trying to leave parts of Khan Younis in line with Israeli demands to evacuate.

According to the Guardian news outlet, clashes were reported between Hamas and Israeli troops a mile from the city on Sunday night.

The Gaza Strip has been cut into three halves by the Israeli Army, with tanks bifurcating the road between Khan Younis and Deir Al-Balah in central Gaza.

<h2>Israel expands Gaza operations&nbsp;</h2>

Talking to reporters, a spokesperson of the Israeli military said that it has expanded its ground operation to all of Gaza.

“The IDF [Israel Defence Forces] continues to extend its ground operation against Hamas centres in all of the Gaza Strip,” spokesperson Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari told reporters in Tel Aviv.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-launches-investigation-into-alleged-russian-execution-of-surrendering-ukrainian-soldiers-665882">Ukraine to probe alleged Russian execution of surrendering soldiers</a>

“The forces are coming face-to-face with terrorists and killing them.”

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/11-climbers-die-in-volcanic-eruption-in-indonesia-search-ops-halted-due-to-lava-discharge-665881">11 climbers die in volcanic eruption in Indonesia</a>

According to an Israeli government spokesperson Eylon Levy, the military has targeted more than 400 targets over the weekend “including extensive aerial attacks in the Khan Younis area” and had also killed Hamas militants and destroyed their infrastructure in Beit Lahiya in the north.

On Saturday night, Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said at a press conference that he ordered the military to attack Gaza with “increasing force”, and reiterated that his country’s aim was to eliminate Hamas as a political and military force on the bombarded strip.

(With inputs from agencies)

More than 700 Palestinians were allegedly killed in Israeli air raids in the last 24 hours as the Israeli Army intensified strikes in southern Gaza. Ismael al-Thawabteh, the director general of the government media office in Gaza, told Al Jazeera on Sunday (Dec 3) that over 700 Palestinians have been killed since Israel resumed bombardment after a seven-day truce ended on Friday.

More than 700 Palestinians were allegedly killed in Israeli air raids in the last 24 hours as the Israeli Army intensified strikes in southern Gaza. Ismael al-Thawabteh, the director general of the government media office in Gaza, told Al Jazeera on Sunday (Dec 3) that over 700 Palestinians have been killed since Israel resumed bombardment after a seven-day truce ended on Friday. Heavy bombardment was reported in and around the enclave’s second-largest city of Khan Younis as the military asked civilians to evacuate from the areas of the city and head south to Rafaj or the west. 1.8 million displaced, over 15,000 killed As the Israeli strikes gained pace, the UN’s OCHA humanitarian agency revised its figure saying that an estimated 1.8 million people are internally displaced, up from a previous figure of 1.7 million. Since the start of the war, 15,523 Palestinians had been killed, the health ministry in Hamas-run Gaza said, adding that 70 per cent of the dead were women and children. An estimated 1.8 million people are internally displaced, up from a previous figure of 1.7 million, according to the UN’s OCHA humanitarian agency. Images showed Palestinians trying to leave parts of Khan Younis in line with Israeli demands to evacuate. According to the Guardian news outlet, clashes were reported between Hamas and Israeli troops a mile from the city on Sunday night. The Gaza Strip has been cut into three halves by the Israeli Army, with tanks bifurcating the road between Khan Younis and Deir Al-Balah in central Gaza. Israel expands Gaza operations Talking to reporters, a spokesperson of the Israeli military said that it has expanded its ground operation to all of Gaza. “The IDF [Israel Defence Forces] continues to extend its ground operation against Hamas centres in all of the Gaza Strip,” spokesperson Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari told reporters in Tel Aviv. Also read | Ukraine to probe alleged Russian execution of surrendering soldiers “The forces are coming face-to-face with terrorists and killing them.” Also read | 11 climbers die in volcanic eruption in Indonesia According to an Israeli government spokesperson Eylon Levy, the military has targeted more than 400 targets over the weekend “including extensive aerial attacks in the Khan Younis area” and had also killed Hamas militants and destroyed their infrastructure in Beit Lahiya in the north. On Saturday night, Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said at a press conference that he ordered the military to attack Gaza with “increasing force”, and reiterated that his country’s aim was to eliminate Hamas as a political and military force on the bombarded strip. (With inputs from agencies)

Hamas-run govt says 700 Palestinians killed in 24 hours as Israel intensifies operations across Gaza

Author

Zee News Rajasthan

Editor

C Krishnasai

Home

Live Tv

Latest

World

India

Business

Entertainment

Sports

Opinions

Videos

Photos

Gravitas

Lifestyle

Science

Tech

Rajasthan News in Hindi: In-depth coverage of Rajasthan Crime, Political News, Education, Rajasthan Weather Update and Latest Rajasthan News on Zee News Rajasthan.