Hundreds of demonstrators took to the streets in Christian areas of Damascus early Tuesday to protest the burning of a Christmas tree near Hama in central Syria, AFP journalists witnessed.

"We demand the rights of Christians," protesters chanted as they marched through the Syrian capital towards the headquarters of the Orthodox Patriarchate in the Bab Sharqi neighbourhood.

The protests come a little more than two weeks after an armed coalition led by Islamists toppled the government of Bashar al-Assad, who had cast himself as a protector of minorities in the Sunni-majority country.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-drops-bounty-on-syrias-new-leader-after-talks-in-syrian-capital-785759">US scraps $10mn bounty on Syria’s new leader after talks in Syrian capital</a>

A demonstrator who gave his name as Georges told AFP he was protesting "injustice against Christians".

"If we're not allowed to live our Christian faith in our country, as we used to, then we don't belong here anymore," he said.

The protests erupted after a video spread on social media showing hooded fighters setting fire to a Christmas tree in the Christian-majority town of Suqaylabiyah, near Hama.

According to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, the fighters were foreigners from the Islamist group Ansar al-Tawhid.

Also watch | All weapons to come under state control: New Syrian leader

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/syrias-new-leaders-say-all-weapons-to-come-under-state-control-786205/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

In another video posted to social media, a religious leader from Syria's victorious Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) addressed residents, claiming those who torched the tree were "not Syrian" and promising they would be punished.

"The tree will be restored and lit up by tomorrow morning," he said.

The Islamist HTS movement, rooted in Al-Qaeda and supported by Turkey, has promised to protect minorities since its lightning offensive toppled Assad this month following years of stalemate.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience. 
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Hundreds of demonstrators took to the streets in Christian areas of Damascus early Tuesday to protest the burning of a Christmas tree near Hama in central Syria, AFP journalists witnessed.

Hundreds of demonstrators took to the streets in Christian areas of Damascus early Tuesday to protest the burning of a Christmas tree near Hama in central Syria, AFP journalists witnessed. "We demand the rights of Christians," protesters chanted as they marched through the Syrian capital towards the headquarters of the Orthodox Patriarchate in the Bab Sharqi neighbourhood. The protests come a little more than two weeks after an armed coalition led by Islamists toppled the government of Bashar al-Assad, who had cast himself as a protector of minorities in the Sunni-majority country. Also read | US scraps $10mn bounty on Syria’s new leader after talks in Syrian capital A demonstrator who gave his name as Georges told AFP he was protesting "injustice against Christians". "If we're not allowed to live our Christian faith in our country, as we used to, then we don't belong here anymore," he said. The protests erupted after a video spread on social media showing hooded fighters setting fire to a Christmas tree in the Christian-majority town of Suqaylabiyah, near Hama. According to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, the fighters were foreigners from the Islamist group Ansar al-Tawhid. Also watch | All weapons to come under state control: New Syrian leader In another video posted to social media, a religious leader from Syria's victorious Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) addressed residents, claiming those who torched the tree were "not Syrian" and promising they would be punished. "The tree will be restored and lit up by tomorrow morning," he said. The Islamist HTS movement, rooted in Al-Qaeda and supported by Turkey, has promised to protect minorities since its lightning offensive toppled Assad this month following years of stalemate. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Hundreds hit the streets as protest erupts over burning of Christmas tree near Syria's Hama

The political faceoff in India over the row involving Dalit icon Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar is not over yet. Just days after the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) and the opposition INDIA bloc fought over the issue in the Winter Session of Parliament, a similar issue has emerged in the Union Territory (UT) of Chandigarh.

The political faceoff in India over the row involving Dalit icon Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar is not over yet. Just days after the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) and the opposition INDIA bloc fought over the issue in the Winter Session of Parliament, a similar issue has emerged in the Union Territory (UT) of Chandigarh. Visuals shared by the news agency ANI on Tuesday (Dec 24) showed a fight between the councillors of the BJP and the Congress over the Ambedkar row. The incident took place during the general house meeting of the Chandigarh Municipal Corporation. The brawl between councillors of different political fronts ANI reported that the councillors of the Congress and its national ally the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) passed a motion against Indian Home Minister Amit Shah (over his remarks on Dr Ambedkar) and demanded his resignation. Here's a look at the video: #WATCH | Scuffle erupted between Congress and BJP councillors over the subject of Dr BR Ambedkar during the general house meeting of Chandigarh Municipal Corporation today Nominated councillor Anil Masih had targeted Congress and stated that Rahul Gandhi is out on bail, citing… pic.twitter.com/iZmLidgbT0 — ANI (@ANI) December 24, 2024 × BJP councillors, meanwhile, accused the Congress of trying to belittle Dr Ambedkar during the government of the country's first prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru. Also read | Explained: What is the 'Ambedkar row' that disrupted Indian Parliament? Separately, BJP member and nominated councillor Anil Masih targeted the Congress by saying that its leader Rahul Gandhi was out on bail (citing the National Herald Case). The video shared by ANI showed the councillors pushing and arguing with each other as other councillors tried to calm them down. What is Ambedkar row and subsequent political faceoff? The political slugfest erupted when Home Minister Shah made a statement on Ambedkar in the Rajya Sabha during a debate on the 75th year of the adoption of the Indian Constitution. Taking a dig at the opposition, Shah said "Abhi ek fashion ho gaya hai - Ambedkar, Ambedkar, Ambedkar, Ambedkar, Ambedkar, Ambedkar. Itna naam agar bhagwan ka lete to saat janmon tak swarg mil jata (It has become a fashion to say Ambedkar, Ambedkar, Ambedkar, Ambedkar, Ambedkar, Ambedkar'. If they (opposition) had taken God's name so many times, they would have got a place in heaven)." Also read | 'Congress is anti-Ambedkar': Amit Shah responds to Oppn criticism of his remarks on Dalit icon "Take his name 100 times more, but I want to say what are your sentiments about him," Shah added and pointed out that Ambedkar had to resign from the first Cabinet following a disagreement with the Nehru government. Opposition lawmakers considered the home minister's remarks an insult to Ambedkar. Shah, meanwhile, accused the opposition of sharing a trimmed version of his speech. (With inputs from agencies)

Watch- Another scuffle over Ambedkar row: BJP, Congress councillors brawl in India's Chandigarh

Luigi Mangione, the suspect in the murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, on Monday (Dec 23) pleaded not guilty to state murder and terror charges. Mangione, 26, was shackled and seated in a court in Manhattan when he leaned over to a microphone to enter his plea.

Luigi Mangione, the suspect in the murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, on Monday (Dec 23) pleaded not guilty to state murder and terror charges. Mangione, 26, was shackled and seated in a court in Manhattan when he leaned over to a microphone to enter his plea. Last week, the Manhattan district attorney charged him with multiple counts of murder, including murder as an act of terrorism. Mangione's initial appearance in New York's state's trial court was preempted by federal prosecutors bringing their charges over Thompson's murder. No family in court, but dozens of women wait to support Mangione American media reported on Tuesday that while Mangione did not have family in the Manhattan court on Monday, about two dozen women attended the arraignment in the public section of the gallery, many of them voicing support for the 26-year-old man. Speaking to ABC News, a woman said that she came to court as she believed that Mangione was bringing attention to the need for universal healthcare in the United States (US). Also read | UnitedHealthcare CEO murder suspect Luigi Mangione pleads 'not guilty' to murder, terrorism charges The woman, who chose to remain anonymous, said that she did not trust the media's coverage of the case and wanted to see the proceedings with her own eyes to draw any conclusion. Last year, Mangione underwent spinal surgery for chronic back pain and became a proponent of the medical procedure that changed his life for the better. On Reddit, he repeatedly posted about his recovery and offered words of encouragement for people with similar conditions. Also read | Luigi Mangione: A murder suspect 'too hot to be guilty' for Gen Z However, missing from these posts were his explicit concerns about corporate greed in the country's health insurance industry which only appeared in a note that Mangione wrote. This note was found after he was detained in Thompson's murder. An interesting point to note is that Mangione was never insured by UnitedHealthcare. A 26-year-old woman, who also wished to remain unidentified, told ABC News that she related to Mangione after she fell off her parent's healthcare plan and couldn't afford COBRA coverage. A growing frustration with American health insurance firms Brian Thompson's murder has brought back to spotlight the growing frustration of Americans about the country's health insurance industry. Also watch | Who is Luigi Mangione- the man suspected of killing UnitedHealthcare CEO? ABC News reported that there has been an outpour of support for Mangione and hostility towards the healthcare industry since Thompson's murder, with police personnel warning about the increased risk to healthcare executives. (With inputs from agencies)

UnitedHealthcare CEO killing: Not kin, but dozens of women wait in court to support suspect Luigi Mangione

The Delhi Police said on Tuesday (Dec 24) that they busted a major illegal immigration racket involving Bangladeshis by arresting 11 people in connection with the crime.

The Delhi Police said on Tuesday (Dec 24) that they busted a major illegal immigration racket involving Bangladeshis by arresting 11 people in connection with the crime. Speaking to the news agency ANI, Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) South, Ankit Chauhan, said that the accused facilitated Bangladeshi nationals by producing counterfeit Aadhar cards, voter IDs, and other forged documents via a fake website. 'Jungle routes, trains used to enter India' DCP Chauhan told ANI that the illegal immigrants used jungle routes and express trains to enter India. Also read | 'We want her back...': Bangladesh formally writes to India to facilitate return of Sheikh Hasina The above developments came as Delhi Lieutenant Governor (L-G) Vinai Kumar Saxena recently directed the chief secretary and the police commissioner to launch a two-month drive to identify and take strict action against illegal Bangladeshi immigrants residing in India's national capital. Over 1,000 illegal Bangladeshi immigrants found in Delhi Citing police sources, ANI reported that more than 1,000 illegal Bangladeshi immigrants had been identified so far across Delhi. Also watch | Social media post by Yunus' aide kicks up row A recent police operation involved door-to-door verification, scrutiny of documents, and interrogations. (With inputs from agencies)

Police in India's Delhi bust illegal Bangladeshi immigration nexus, arrest 11

Christmas is around the corner. Law enforcement agencies in the US state of Florida are on the lookout for a man dressed as Santa Claus after a highway patrol trooper clocked him riding his motorbike at a speed of 193 kilometres per hour (kmph), American media reported on Monday (Dec 23).

Christmas is around the corner. Law enforcement agencies in the US state of Florida are on the lookout for a man dressed as Santa Claus after a highway patrol trooper clocked him riding his motorbike at a speed of 193 kilometres per hour (kmph), American media reported on Monday (Dec 23). According to the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP), the overspeeding was reported at around 9 pm local time on Saturday (December 21) in Beverly Hills. Also read | Christmas 2024: Wishes, Messages, Greetings, Quotes A video of the high-speed chase has gone viral on social media. 'The sleigh must be in the shop' In a post on X, the FHP shared a 21-second-long video of the chase. Video showed that the suspect did look like Santa Claus, but was cautious enough to wear a helmet. Here's a look at the video: The sleigh must be in the shop, but last night Mr. Claus didn't pause for any cause. Anyone that recognizes ol' St. Nick please feel free to call *FHP (*347) and let us know! pic.twitter.com/UXB9M8qGaM — FHP Tampa (@FHPTampa) December 22, 2024 × "The sleigh must be in the shop, but last night Mr. Claus didn't pause for any cause. Anyone that recognizes ol' St. Nick please feel free to call *FHP (*347) and let us know!" the FHP said. At one point in the video, the suspect entered a fuel station and then joined the road to disappear. (With inputs from agencies)

Watch- Sleigh must be in the shop: Santa on bike gets away from Florida cops in high-speed chase

Tel Aviv
<meta content="uuid3ze8PUVTNnZD" name="uuid"/>Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu told the parliament on Monday (Dec 23) that some progress had been made in negotiations to secure the release of hostages in Gaza.
"Everything we are doing cannot be disclosed. We are taking actions to bring them back. I wish to say cautiously that there has been some progress, and we will not stop acting until we bring them all home," Prime Minister Netanyahu said, as talks to reach a deal have been renewed in recent days.
The war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas in the Gaza Strip has been going on for more than a year now. 
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/idf-strikes-hamas-command-center-in-former-gaza-school-as-israel-negotiates-hostage-release-786003">Hamas has offered 'signs of life' for several Israeli hostages: Report</a>
The only ceasefire so far, in November last year, saw the release of about 100 hostages by Hamas and its allies in exchange for 240 Palestinian prisoners held by Israel.
<h2>'Gaza deal closer than ever'</h2>
Netanyahu's comments to the Israeli Parliament came two days after three Palestinian militant groups said in a rare joint statement that a deal for a ceasefire in the Gaza war and to exchange prisoners was "closer than ever."
Also watch | The West Asia Post: Gaza ceasefire in sight?
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In recent days, indirect negotiations between Israel and Hamas mediated by Qatar, Egypt, and the United States were held in Doha, rekindling hope of an agreement, more than 14 months into the Gaza war.
<h2>A hope for families of the hostages</h2>
On Monday, Netanyahu told Parliament, "Everything we are doing cannot be disclosed. We are taking actions to bring them (hostages) back. I wish to say cautiously that there has been some progress, and we will not stop acting until we bring them all home."
"I want to say to the families of the hostages: We are thinking of you and we will not give up on your loved ones, who are our loved ones as well," the Israeli PM added. 
(With inputs from agencies)

The only ceasefire so far, in November last year, saw the release of about 100 hostages by Hamas and its allies in exchange for 240 Palestinian prisoners held by Israel.



Tel Aviv Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu told the parliament on Monday (Dec 23) that some progress had been made in negotiations to secure the release of hostages in Gaza. "Everything we are doing cannot be disclosed. We are taking actions to bring them back. I wish to say cautiously that there has been some progress, and we will not stop acting until we bring them all home," Prime Minister Netanyahu said, as talks to reach a deal have been renewed in recent days. The war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas in the Gaza Strip has been going on for more than a year now. Also read | Hamas has offered 'signs of life' for several Israeli hostages: Report The only ceasefire so far, in November last year, saw the release of about 100 hostages by Hamas and its allies in exchange for 240 Palestinian prisoners held by Israel. 'Gaza deal closer than ever' Netanyahu's comments to the Israeli Parliament came two days after three Palestinian militant groups said in a rare joint statement that a deal for a ceasefire in the Gaza war and to exchange prisoners was "closer than ever." Also watch | The West Asia Post: Gaza ceasefire in sight? In recent days, indirect negotiations between Israel and Hamas mediated by Qatar, Egypt, and the United States were held in Doha, rekindling hope of an agreement, more than 14 months into the Gaza war. A hope for families of the hostages On Monday, Netanyahu told Parliament, "Everything we are doing cannot be disclosed. We are taking actions to bring them (hostages) back. I wish to say cautiously that there has been some progress, and we will not stop acting until we bring them all home." "I want to say to the families of the hostages: We are thinking of you and we will not give up on your loved ones, who are our loved ones as well," the Israeli PM added. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel-Hamas war: Netanyahu says 'some progress' made on Gaza hostage deal

Colorado, United States
<meta content="uuidZnOh91rUq7Eb" name="uuid"/>
As many as 174 skiers and snowboarders in the US state of Colorado were rescued on Sunday (Dec 22) after a ski lift cracked, which forced the evacuations, American media reported.
The gondola lift at Winter Park Resort, about 113 kilometres west of Denver, automatically stopped when it detected the crack in a structural piece of the lift just after noon on Saturday, resort spokesperson Jen Miller told the news agency Associated Press. 
Miller said that people riding in the gondolas were lowered down by ropes over about five hours.
<h2>No injuries reported</h2>
The Associated Press report said that no injuries were reported in the incident. The incident came at the beginning of the busy holiday ski season in the US.
Miller also said that Ski patrolers entered the cabin of each gondola from above and lowered people’s equipment to the ground before using a rope equipped with a seat to lower each of the 174 passengers to the ground.
Workers were replacing the section of the lift that cracked Sunday as state regulators and the lift’s manufacturer worked with resort officials to investigate what caused the crack, she added.
Speaking to an American media outlet, the resort spokesperson said that the crack was part of the malfunction.
<h2>'Is everyone feeling good?'</h2>
Videos shared on social media shot by bystanders showed the lift at a standstill as the local ski patrol entered each cabin and used the ropes to lower passengers dozens of feet to the ground.
A video on TikTok showed the beginning of the incident when a resort employee called out to a cabin full of skiers and snowboarders from the ground to ask if anyone was injured.
Another video on the platform showed a ski patrol member asking the stranded passengers, "Is everyone feeling good?"
(With inputs from agencies)

The Associated Press report said that no injuries were reported in the incident. The incident came at the beginning of the busy holiday ski season in the US.



Colorado, United States As many as 174 skiers and snowboarders in the US state of Colorado were rescued on Sunday (Dec 22) after a ski lift cracked, which forced the evacuations, American media reported. The gondola lift at Winter Park Resort, about 113 kilometres west of Denver, automatically stopped when it detected the crack in a structural piece of the lift just after noon on Saturday, resort spokesperson Jen Miller told the news agency Associated Press. Miller said that people riding in the gondolas were lowered down by ropes over about five hours. No injuries reported The Associated Press report said that no injuries were reported in the incident. The incident came at the beginning of the busy holiday ski season in the US. Miller also said that Ski patrolers entered the cabin of each gondola from above and lowered people’s equipment to the ground before using a rope equipped with a seat to lower each of the 174 passengers to the ground. Workers were replacing the section of the lift that cracked Sunday as state regulators and the lift’s manufacturer worked with resort officials to investigate what caused the crack, she added. Speaking to an American media outlet, the resort spokesperson said that the crack was part of the malfunction. 'Is everyone feeling good?' Videos shared on social media shot by bystanders showed the lift at a standstill as the local ski patrol entered each cabin and used the ropes to lower passengers dozens of feet to the ground. A video on TikTok showed the beginning of the incident when a resort employee called out to a cabin full of skiers and snowboarders from the ground to ask if anyone was injured. Another video on the platform showed a ski patrol member asking the stranded passengers, "Is everyone feeling good?" (With inputs from agencies)

Ski lift cracks in Colorado, over 170 stranded skiers and snowboarders rescued

Dhaka
<meta content="uuidl5t9tEtYyubi" name="uuid"/>
Bangladesh's foreign ministry on Monday (Dec 23) formally wrote to India to facilitate the return of ousted prime minister Sheikh Hasina. 
Addressing a press conference in Dhaka, Foreign Minister Tauhid Hossain said, "We have clearly informed India of our position. We have conveyed that we want her (Sheikh Hasina) back for judicial process."
"We have sent a note verbale to the Indian government," Foreign Minister Hossain added when he was asked about the procedure for requesting Hasina's repatriation.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sheikh-hasina-involved-as-instructor-in-enforced-disappearances-alleges-bangladeshs-inquiry-commission-784157">Sheikh Hasina involved as 'instructor' in enforced disappearances, alleges Bangladesh's inquiry commission</a>
Earlier, Dhaka had said that there was no bar to bringing Hasina back following the extradition treaty. 
Meanwhile, a spokesperson of the Indian foreign ministry told WION's Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal, "We confirm that we have received a Note Verbale from the Bangladesh High Commission today in connection with an extradition request. At this time, we have no comment to offer on this matter."
<h2>Anti-govt protests that led to Hasina's ouster</h2>
Earlier this year, anti-government protests in Bangladesh against Sheikh Hasina's government led to her ouster.
The crisis precipitated in the country as students launched protests against the civil service job quotas in July. Students protested against public sector job quotas, which included a 30 per cent reservation for family members of fighters from the 1971 War of Independence from Pakistan.
The agitation was initially peaceful but soon turned violent. More than 240 people were killed in the clashes between student protesters and pro-government supporters. Thousands of people were injured, and scores were detained. 
Hasina resigned as PM on August 5 and fled to India. Following her ouster, an interim government was formed, which is being led by Muhammed Yunus. 
<h2>Growing demand to repatriate Hasina</h2>
A report by the Bangladeshi newspaper The Business Standard said on Monday that since Hasina fled to India, there has been a growing demand to get her repatriated to Bangladesh and face trial for the crimes committed by her administration during the July-August uprising.
Also watch | Newspoint: Bangladesh extends probe into Hasina
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Last month, interim leader Yunus said that his government would seek the repatriation of Hasina from India and assured that she would be prosecuted for all the crimes committed over the past 15 years.
<h2>Will Hasina face extradition?</h2>
Citing sources, The Business Standard report said that Hasina holds no other passport besides the now-revoked diplomatic one. 
Under the Indian visa policy, Bangladeshi citizens holding diplomatic or official passports are eligible for visa-free entry and can stay in the country (India) for up to 45 days.
However, Hasina has already spent four and a half months in India.
The cancellation of her diplomatic passport and its associated visa privileges could lead to the risk of extradition to Bangladesh, the report said.
It added that her extradition would fall under the legal framework of the 2013 extradition treaty between Dhaka and New Delhi, which was amended three years later. 
While the treaty allows for the refusal of extradition if the charges are political, it explicitly excludes crimes such as murder from being considered political.
(With inputs from agencies)

Addressing a press conference in Dhaka, Foreign Minister Tauhid Hossain said, "We have clearly informed India of our position. We have conveyed that we want her (Sheikh Hasina) back for judicial process."



Dhaka Bangladesh's foreign ministry on Monday (Dec 23) formally wrote to India to facilitate the return of ousted prime minister Sheikh Hasina. Addressing a press conference in Dhaka, Foreign Minister Tauhid Hossain said, "We have clearly informed India of our position. We have conveyed that we want her (Sheikh Hasina) back for judicial process." "We have sent a note verbale to the Indian government," Foreign Minister Hossain added when he was asked about the procedure for requesting Hasina's repatriation. Also read | Sheikh Hasina involved as 'instructor' in enforced disappearances, alleges Bangladesh's inquiry commission Earlier, Dhaka had said that there was no bar to bringing Hasina back following the extradition treaty. Meanwhile, a spokesperson of the Indian foreign ministry told WION's Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal, "We confirm that we have received a Note Verbale from the Bangladesh High Commission today in connection with an extradition request. At this time, we have no comment to offer on this matter." Anti-govt protests that led to Hasina's ouster Earlier this year, anti-government protests in Bangladesh against Sheikh Hasina's government led to her ouster. The crisis precipitated in the country as students launched protests against the civil service job quotas in July. Students protested against public sector job quotas, which included a 30 per cent reservation for family members of fighters from the 1971 War of Independence from Pakistan. The agitation was initially peaceful but soon turned violent. More than 240 people were killed in the clashes between student protesters and pro-government supporters. Thousands of people were injured, and scores were detained. Hasina resigned as PM on August 5 and fled to India. Following her ouster, an interim government was formed, which is being led by Muhammed Yunus. Growing demand to repatriate Hasina A report by the Bangladeshi newspaper The Business Standard said on Monday that since Hasina fled to India, there has been a growing demand to get her repatriated to Bangladesh and face trial for the crimes committed by her administration during the July-August uprising. Also watch | Newspoint: Bangladesh extends probe into Hasina Last month, interim leader Yunus said that his government would seek the repatriation of Hasina from India and assured that she would be prosecuted for all the crimes committed over the past 15 years. Will Hasina face extradition? Citing sources, The Business Standard report said that Hasina holds no other passport besides the now-revoked diplomatic one. Under the Indian visa policy, Bangladeshi citizens holding diplomatic or official passports are eligible for visa-free entry and can stay in the country (India) for up to 45 days. However, Hasina has already spent four and a half months in India. The cancellation of her diplomatic passport and its associated visa privileges could lead to the risk of extradition to Bangladesh, the report said. It added that her extradition would fall under the legal framework of the 2013 extradition treaty between Dhaka and New Delhi, which was amended three years later. While the treaty allows for the refusal of extradition if the charges are political, it explicitly excludes crimes such as murder from being considered political. (With inputs from agencies)

'We want her back...': Bangladesh formally writes to India to facilitate return of Sheikh Hasina

Washington
<meta content="uuidl5t9tEtYyubi" name="uuid"/>Wholesale egg prices in the United States (US) have reached an all-time high as an accelerating outbreak of bird flu in laying hens slashes supplies.
Citing data from commodity data firm Expana, a report by the news agency Reuters late Saturday (December 21) said that the wholesale prices for large eggs reached $5.77 per dozen in the Midwest on December 18, up 150 per cent from a year ago and topping the previous record of $5.46 from December 2022.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/california-declares-emergency-after-first-severe-human-case-of-bird-flu-emerges-in-us-785227">California declares emergency after first severe human case of bird flu emerges in US</a>
The average retail price of a dozen eggs exceeded $3.60 in November, up from $2.50 at the start of the year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Only in September was the average price higher, at $3.80.
<h2>Prices are much higher in California</h2>
The wholesale prices for eggs were much higher in California, where supplies are further constrained by rules that prohibit farmers from raising hens in cages. There, eggs set an eye-popping record of $8.85 per dozen, Expana said.
Reuters reported that the increased prices were a bonanza for farmers who managed to avoid bird flu outbreaks and were not locked into long-term pricing arrangements that helped control costs at some major retailers.
The main factor driving the price rise is the damage to the laying flock from bird flu. The virus has wiped out nearly 123 million chickens, turkeys, and other poultry in 49 states (of the US) since the beginning of the current outbreak in 2022.
Also watch | Gravitas: Will bird flu cause the next pandemic?
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Data showed that of the 35 million commercial egg-laying hens killed by bird flu this year, nearly half contracted the virus in the past three months. 
<h2>61 people infected with bird flu so far this year</h2>
According to the federal government, bird flu has infected 61 people in the US so far this year. 
The cases in humans have mostly been mild, though officials confirmed the first severe case last week in Louisiana. The patient from Louisiana was hospitalised in critical condition after suspected contact with an infected backyard flock.
(With inputs from agencies)

The wholesale prices for large eggs reached $5.77 per dozen in the Midwest on December 18, up 150 per cent from a year ago and topping the previous record of $5.46 from December 2022.



Washington Wholesale egg prices in the United States (US) have reached an all-time high as an accelerating outbreak of bird flu in laying hens slashes supplies. Citing data from commodity data firm Expana, a report by the news agency Reuters late Saturday (December 21) said that the wholesale prices for large eggs reached $5.77 per dozen in the Midwest on December 18, up 150 per cent from a year ago and topping the previous record of $5.46 from December 2022. Also read | California declares emergency after first severe human case of bird flu emerges in US The average retail price of a dozen eggs exceeded $3.60 in November, up from $2.50 at the start of the year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Only in September was the average price higher, at $3.80. Prices are much higher in California The wholesale prices for eggs were much higher in California, where supplies are further constrained by rules that prohibit farmers from raising hens in cages. There, eggs set an eye-popping record of $8.85 per dozen, Expana said. Reuters reported that the increased prices were a bonanza for farmers who managed to avoid bird flu outbreaks and were not locked into long-term pricing arrangements that helped control costs at some major retailers. The main factor driving the price rise is the damage to the laying flock from bird flu. The virus has wiped out nearly 123 million chickens, turkeys, and other poultry in 49 states (of the US) since the beginning of the current outbreak in 2022. Also watch | Gravitas: Will bird flu cause the next pandemic? Data showed that of the 35 million commercial egg-laying hens killed by bird flu this year, nearly half contracted the virus in the past three months. 61 people infected with bird flu so far this year According to the federal government, bird flu has infected 61 people in the US so far this year. The cases in humans have mostly been mild, though officials confirmed the first severe case last week in Louisiana. The patient from Louisiana was hospitalised in critical condition after suspected contact with an infected backyard flock. (With inputs from agencies)

Bird flu crisis in US drives egg prices to an all-time high

The United States said Monday it is opening an investigation into China's policies for its semiconductor industry, over concerns that Beijing is turning to "extensive anticompetitive and non-market means" to undermine other economies.

The probe centres on foundational semiconductors -- which go into everything from cars to medical devices -- and whether China's actions create burdens for US commerce, said the US Trade Representative's (USTR) office.

The fear is that Beijing's practices undermine "the competitiveness of American industry and workers, critical US supply chains, and US economic security," the USTR's office added.

Beijing slammed the move as "protectionist," vowing to defend its interests and urging Washington to halt its "wrong practices."

The investigation falls under Section 301 of the Trade Act, the same tool used during President-elect Donald Trump's first administration to justify tariff hikes on Chinese products.

"We have seen time and again, a pattern of harmful impact from nonmarket policies and practices across industries that the PRC has targeted for worldwide market dominance," said USTR Katherine Tai, referring to the People's Republic of China.

Previous instances included steel, aluminum, solar cells, electric vehicles, and now semiconductors, Tai told reporters on Sunday.

"This is enabling its companies to rapidly expand capacity and to offer artificially lower-priced chips that threaten to significantly harm and potentially eliminate fair, market-oriented competition," Tai added.

<h2>Sector dominance</h2>

In a notice, USTR said China "nearly doubled its global share of foundational logic semiconductors production capacity" in just six years.

China's share is set to reach about half the world's capacity by 2029, based on announced new fabrication plants, and this expansion "is already discouraging investment by market-oriented actors," USTR added.

Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo said an analysis of the US semiconductor supply chain found two-thirds of US products contain Chinese-made foundational chips.

"About half of companies didn't know whether they had Chinese chips in their products," she added.

In recent years, President Joe Biden has sought to shore up US chipmaking capabilities to reduce reliance on other countries.&nbsp;

The latest probe will initially focus on China's foundational semiconductors production, including the extent these are used in other products like medical devices and vehicles.

The probe is also expected to consider whether Beijing's policies on inputs for semiconductor fabrication contribute to "burden or restriction on US commerce," the USTR's office said.

"This investigation is part of our broader strategy to strengthen the resilience of our supply chains and revitalize domestic manufacturing," said National Economic Advisor Lael Brainard.

Officials will have a year to handle the investigation and decide on responses.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience. 
&nbsp;

The United States said Monday it is opening an investigation into China's policies for its semiconductor industry, over concerns that Beijing is turning to "extensive anticompetitive and non-market means" to undermine other economies.

The United States said Monday it is opening an investigation into China's policies for its semiconductor industry, over concerns that Beijing is turning to "extensive anticompetitive and non-market means" to undermine other economies. The probe centres on foundational semiconductors -- which go into everything from cars to medical devices -- and whether China's actions create burdens for US commerce, said the US Trade Representative's (USTR) office. The fear is that Beijing's practices undermine "the competitiveness of American industry and workers, critical US supply chains, and US economic security," the USTR's office added. Beijing slammed the move as "protectionist," vowing to defend its interests and urging Washington to halt its "wrong practices." The investigation falls under Section 301 of the Trade Act, the same tool used during President-elect Donald Trump's first administration to justify tariff hikes on Chinese products. "We have seen time and again, a pattern of harmful impact from nonmarket policies and practices across industries that the PRC has targeted for worldwide market dominance," said USTR Katherine Tai, referring to the People's Republic of China. Previous instances included steel, aluminum, solar cells, electric vehicles, and now semiconductors, Tai told reporters on Sunday. "This is enabling its companies to rapidly expand capacity and to offer artificially lower-priced chips that threaten to significantly harm and potentially eliminate fair, market-oriented competition," Tai added. Sector dominance In a notice, USTR said China "nearly doubled its global share of foundational logic semiconductors production capacity" in just six years. China's share is set to reach about half the world's capacity by 2029, based on announced new fabrication plants, and this expansion "is already discouraging investment by market-oriented actors," USTR added. Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo said an analysis of the US semiconductor supply chain found two-thirds of US products contain Chinese-made foundational chips. "About half of companies didn't know whether they had Chinese chips in their products," she added. In recent years, President Joe Biden has sought to shore up US chipmaking capabilities to reduce reliance on other countries. The latest probe will initially focus on China's foundational semiconductors production, including the extent these are used in other products like medical devices and vehicles. The probe is also expected to consider whether Beijing's policies on inputs for semiconductor fabrication contribute to "burden or restriction on US commerce," the USTR's office said. "This investigation is part of our broader strategy to strengthen the resilience of our supply chains and revitalize domestic manufacturing," said National Economic Advisor Lael Brainard. Officials will have a year to handle the investigation and decide on responses. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

US to probe China's chip industry over THIS concern

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu told the parliament on Monday (Dec 23) that some progress had been made in negotiations to secure the release of hostages in Gaza.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu told the parliament on Monday (Dec 23) that some progress had been made in negotiations to secure the release of hostages in Gaza. "Everything we are doing cannot be disclosed. We are taking actions to bring them back. I wish to say cautiously that there has been some progress, and we will not stop acting until we bring them all home," Prime Minister Netanyahu said, as talks to reach a deal have been renewed in recent days. The war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas in the Gaza Strip has been going on for more than a year now. Also read | Hamas has offered 'signs of life' for several Israeli hostages: Report The only ceasefire so far, in November last year, saw the release of about 100 hostages by Hamas and its allies in exchange for 240 Palestinian prisoners held by Israel. 'Gaza deal closer than ever' Netanyahu's comments to the Israeli Parliament came two days after three Palestinian militant groups said in a rare joint statement that a deal for a ceasefire in the Gaza war and to exchange prisoners was "closer than ever." Also watch | The West Asia Post: Gaza ceasefire in sight? In recent days, indirect negotiations between Israel and Hamas mediated by Qatar, Egypt, and the United States were held in Doha, rekindling hope of an agreement, more than 14 months into the Gaza war. A hope for families of the hostages On Monday, Netanyahu told Parliament, "Everything we are doing cannot be disclosed. We are taking actions to bring them (hostages) back. I wish to say cautiously that there has been some progress, and we will not stop acting until we bring them all home." "I want to say to the families of the hostages: We are thinking of you and we will not give up on your loved ones, who are our loved ones as well," the Israeli PM added. (With inputs from agencies)

Former Florida Congressman Matt Gaetz was on Monday (Dec 23) found guilty by congressional ethics investigators to have paid numerous women, including a minor, for sex, and to have purchased and used illegal drugs, CBS News reported citing a final draft of an investigative report.

Former Florida Congressman Matt Gaetz was on Monday (Dec 23) found guilty by congressional ethics investigators to have paid numerous women, including a minor, for sex, and to have purchased and used illegal drugs, CBS News reported citing a final draft of an investigative report. "The Committee determined there is substantial evidence that Representative Gaetz violated House Rules and other standards of conduct prohibiting prostitution, statutory rape, illicit drug use, impermissible gifts, special favours or privileges, and obstruction of Congress," the report said. CBS reported that the findings were part of a long-running probe by the House Ethics Committee into Gaetz, 42. The probe concluded that he violated multiple state laws related to sexual misconduct while in office. Gaetz denies improper conduct As Republican and upcoming US president Donald Trump emerged victorious in the November 5 presidential election, he announced plans to nominate Gaetz for attorney general. Also read | 'Womanised, smoked' but 'never had sexual contact with someone under 18', says Matt Gaetz However, after facing opposition from some fellow Republicans, Gaetz withdrew from the consideration. CBS News reported that on Monday, the 42-year-old filed a lawsuit in federal court to block the release of the report (by the House Ethics Committee), saying that he was a private citizen and not subject to the jurisdiction of the committee. Gaetz has denied any improper conduct and asserted the claims were a "smear" invented by his political enemies. A look at the report's crucial findings CBS News reported that one of the findings of the investigative report included allegations of sex and drug-fuelled parties and travel, including a 2018 trip to the Bahamas where witnesses said he took ecstasy and had sex with four women. "From 2017 to 2020, Representative Gaetz made tens of thousands of dollars in payments to women that the Committee determined were likely in connection with sexual activity and/or drug use," the report said. Further, the ethics committee pointed out it received a testimony that during a party in 2017, Gaetz had sex with a minor aged 17 at that time. The minor was identified as "Victim A." Also watch | Newspoint: Trump names Pam Bondi as pick for US attorney general after Gaetz's exit The committee said that Victim A recalled receiving $400 in cash from Gaetz during the party, which she understood to be payment for sex. "Victim A said that she did not inform Representative Gaetz that she was under 18 at the time, nor did he ask her age," the report added. In his written responses to the committee, Gaetz denied that he had sex with a minor. (With inputs from agencies)

Ex-Florida Congressman Matt Gaetz violated state laws with drug use, sex with a minor: Report

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