<p>A drone strike on the Al-Tanf military base killed three US troops and injured 34 others, Washington said on Sunday (Jan 28).</p>

<p>This was the first deadly strike against US forces since the war between Israel and Hamas erupted on Oct 7 last year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>US <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/three-us-troops-killed-in-drone-attack-on-base-in-jordan-military-684606">President Joe Biden</a></strong> blamed Iran-backed militants for the strike and vowed that Washington would respond.</p>

<p>There has so far been no claim of responsibility for the strike.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A Jordanian government spokesperson initially said on Sunday that the attack did not happen in Jordan but it targeted the military base in Syria,&nbsp;where US forces have been deployed as part of an international anti-jihadist coalition.</p>

<p>Eight of the 34 injured personnel required evacuation.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Where is Al-Tanf based?</strong></h2>

<p>According to reports, Al-Tanf is located in Syria on the Iraqi border and within miles of the Jordanian border.</p>

<p>Since 2016, the US garrison at Tanf has served as a launching point for operations against Islamic State, and training for Syrian opposition factions fighting the terrorist group.</p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/middle-east-crisis-live-updates-biden-vows-to-respond-after-drone-attack-kills-3-us-troops-japan-suspends-aid-to-unrwa-684658">Click here to follow all updates on the Middle East crisis</a></strong></p>

<p>The drone strike which killed three US troops happened at the military outpost Tower 22, which is near Al-Tanf.</p>

<p>A report by the news agency Reuters said that Tanf has also assumed a role as part of an American strategy to contain Iran's military build-up in eastern Syria.</p>

<p>Little is publicly known about the base. Reuters reported that Tower 22 is located close enough to US troops at Tanf that it could potentially help support them. It is a strategically important location in Jordan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It is not yet known how many US troops are actually stationed on Tower 22, and it is also unclear what type of weapons are kept at the base, and what air defences are used.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Jordan condemns attack</strong></h2>

<p>On Sunday, the Jordanian government condemned the drone strike and said that the attack "did not result in any casualties among officers of the Jordan Armed Forces."</p>

<p>The government said that US troops at Al-Tanf have been cooperating with Jordan "in countering terrorism and securing the border."</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;West Asia crisis: Three US soldiers killed, at least 34 injured in Jordan drone attack</strong></p>

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<p>Meanwhile, Iran denied US President Biden's accusation that it supported militant groups behind the drone strike. "These claims are made with specific political goals to reverse the realities of the region," IRNA quoted foreign ministry spokesman Nasser Kanaani as saying.</p>

<p>Kanaani added that such statements threatened "regional and international peace and stability."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A drone strike on the Al-Tanf military base killed three US troops and injured 34 others, Washington said on Sunday (Jan 28). This was the first deadly strike against US forces since the war between Israel and Hamas erupted on Oct 7 last year.

A drone strike on the Al-Tanf military base killed three US troops and injured 34 others, Washington said on Sunday (Jan 28). This was the first deadly strike against US forces since the war between Israel and Hamas erupted on Oct 7 last year. US President Joe Biden blamed Iran-backed militants for the strike and vowed that Washington would respond. There has so far been no claim of responsibility for the strike. A Jordanian government spokesperson initially said on Sunday that the attack did not happen in Jordan but it targeted the military base in Syria, where US forces have been deployed as part of an international anti-jihadist coalition. Eight of the 34 injured personnel required evacuation. Where is Al-Tanf based? According to reports, Al-Tanf is located in Syria on the Iraqi border and within miles of the Jordanian border. Since 2016, the US garrison at Tanf has served as a launching point for operations against Islamic State, and training for Syrian opposition factions fighting the terrorist group. Click here to follow all updates on the Middle East crisis The drone strike which killed three US troops happened at the military outpost Tower 22, which is near Al-Tanf. A report by the news agency Reuters said that Tanf has also assumed a role as part of an American strategy to contain Iran's military build-up in eastern Syria. Little is publicly known about the base. Reuters reported that Tower 22 is located close enough to US troops at Tanf that it could potentially help support them. It is a strategically important location in Jordan. It is not yet known how many US troops are actually stationed on Tower 22, and it is also unclear what type of weapons are kept at the base, and what air defences are used. Jordan condemns attack On Sunday, the Jordanian government condemned the drone strike and said that the attack "did not result in any casualties among officers of the Jordan Armed Forces." The government said that US troops at Al-Tanf have been cooperating with Jordan "in countering terrorism and securing the border." Also watch | West Asia crisis: Three US soldiers killed, at least 34 injured in Jordan drone attack × Meanwhile, Iran denied US President Biden's accusation that it supported militant groups behind the drone strike. "These claims are made with specific political goals to reverse the realities of the region," IRNA quoted foreign ministry spokesman Nasser Kanaani as saying. Kanaani added that such statements threatened "regional and international peace and stability." (With inputs from agencies)

Where is Al-Tanf, the site of deadly drone strike that killed 3 US troops, located?

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidHVnGzOLcXsEG" /><meta charset="utf-8" />Bangladeshi Nobel laureate and economist Muhammad Yunus was granted bail on Sunday (Jan 28) after he <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bangladesh-nobel-peace-laureate-muhammad-yunus-convicted-of-violating-labour-laws-675599">had was&nbsp;convicted of violating the country's labour laws</a></strong>. According to a report by the news agency Associated Press, Yunus, 83, was granted bail by an appeals court in Dhaka. The court also agreed to hear an appeal against his sentencing. Yunus had filed the appeal seeking bail on Sunday morning before it was granted, the report said.</p>

<p>The Nobel laureate and three of his Grameen Telecom colleagues were sentenced to six months in prison on Jan 1, but they were immediately granted 30 days of bail to appeal the verdict and sentence.</p>

<p>Sunday's decision by the appeals court said the bail would remain effective until a final decision was made on the appeal for the sentencing.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>The case</strong></h2>

<p>The case involves Grameen Telecom, which was founded by Yunus as a non-profit organisation. As per the report, the company owns 34.2 per cent of Bangladesh's largest mobile company Grameenphone, a subsidiary of Norway’s telecom giant Telenor.</p>

<p>In the case's original verdict, the judge said that Grameen Telecom violated labour laws. At least 67 company workers were supposed to be made permanent employees but were not. Also, a welfare fund to support staff in case of an emergency and special need was never formed.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Terrorist organisation: Bangladesh PM attacks opposition over election boycott</strong></p>

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<p>The judge said that as per company policy, five per cent of Grameen’s dividends were supposed to have been distributed to staff but were not. The judge found Yunus, and three company directors guilty, and fined each $260 while also sentencing them to prison.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>'Case is politically motivated'</strong></h2>

<p>Yunus' supporters said that the case was politically motivated, a charge that Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's government denied. The 83-year-old economist was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for his work in 2006.</p>

<p>Yunus said after the original verdict that he was innocent. "We are being punished for a crime we did not commit. It was my fate, the nation’s fate. We have accepted this verdict, but will appeal this verdict and continue fighting against this sentence," he told reporters following the Jan 1 verdict.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Bangladeshi Nobel laureate and economist Muhammad Yunus was granted bail on Sunday (Jan 28) after he had was convicted of violating the country's labour laws. According to a report by the news agency Associated Press, Yunus, 83, was granted bail by an appeals court in Dhaka.

Bangladeshi Nobel laureate and economist Muhammad Yunus was granted bail on Sunday (Jan 28) after he had was convicted of violating the country's labour laws. According to a report by the news agency Associated Press, Yunus, 83, was granted bail by an appeals court in Dhaka. The court also agreed to hear an appeal against his sentencing. Yunus had filed the appeal seeking bail on Sunday morning before it was granted, the report said. The Nobel laureate and three of his Grameen Telecom colleagues were sentenced to six months in prison on Jan 1, but they were immediately granted 30 days of bail to appeal the verdict and sentence. Sunday's decision by the appeals court said the bail would remain effective until a final decision was made on the appeal for the sentencing. The case The case involves Grameen Telecom, which was founded by Yunus as a non-profit organisation. As per the report, the company owns 34.2 per cent of Bangladesh's largest mobile company Grameenphone, a subsidiary of Norway’s telecom giant Telenor. In the case's original verdict, the judge said that Grameen Telecom violated labour laws. At least 67 company workers were supposed to be made permanent employees but were not. Also, a welfare fund to support staff in case of an emergency and special need was never formed. Also watch | Terrorist organisation: Bangladesh PM attacks opposition over election boycott × The judge said that as per company policy, five per cent of Grameen’s dividends were supposed to have been distributed to staff but were not. The judge found Yunus, and three company directors guilty, and fined each $260 while also sentencing them to prison. 'Case is politically motivated' Yunus' supporters said that the case was politically motivated, a charge that Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's government denied. The 83-year-old economist was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for his work in 2006. Yunus said after the original verdict that he was innocent. "We are being punished for a crime we did not commit. It was my fate, the nation’s fate. We have accepted this verdict, but will appeal this verdict and continue fighting against this sentence," he told reporters following the Jan 1 verdict. (With inputs from agencies)

Bangladeshi Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus granted bail after being convicted of violating labour laws

A First Look at NASA's Bennu Asteroid Sampler

High-Resolution Images Released after Delay

The high-resolution images of NASA's Bennu asteroid sampler have finally been released more than 3.5 months after the OSIRIS-REx spacecraft returned them to Earth. A report by ScienceAlert said the delay was due to two pesky fasteners that were holding the sampler lid in place.

Asteroid Material Untouched for Billions of Years

The asteroid material inside the sampler is thought to have remained untouched for 4.5 billion years, ScienceAlert reported.


With the problem now being solved, the curation team will remove the round metal collar and prepare the glovebox to transfer the remaining sample from the TAGSAM head into pie-wedge sample trays. These trays will be photographed before the sample is weighed, packaged, and stored at the Johnson Space Center in Houston.

WASP-96 b: A Planet with Sodium-Rich Atmosphere

Images source: NASA, Representative images

A Hot, Puffy Gas Giant Located in Phoenix Constellation

An international team at NASA found that WASP-96 b is a world with a sodium-rich atmosphere. The planet is located nearly 1,150 light-years from Earth and orbits its star every 3.4 days. It is located in the southern-sky constellation Phoenix.

WASP-96 b is about half the mass of Jupiter. According to NASA, WASP-96 b is much puffier than any planet orbiting our Sun.

WASP-96 b's discovery was announced in 2014. Eight years later, the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) captured the distinct signature of water, along with evidence of clouds and haze, in the atmosphere of the planet.

<p>The Sgoolai Israel Synagogue in Canada's Fredericton was vandalised on&nbsp;International Holocaust Remembrance Day on Saturday (Jan 27). According to a report by CBC, Fredericton police said they were investigating whether the vandalism was the result of targeted hostility. Police officials had received a report that someone noticed the damage on Saturday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Police arrived at the site to find that the synagogue had been damaged. Multiple windows were shattered.&nbsp;</p>

<p>New Brunswick Minister of Public Safety Kris Austin expressed his support for the local Jewish community and said government officials are working with local law enforcement to investigate the incident, reported&nbsp; news agency Reuters.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It's a very tense world that we're living in, on a lot of different fronts and, of course, we see what's happening in Israel and Gaza, so we understand that New Brunswickers are not going to be immune to some of the tension that is the result of some of the, basically the war that is happening over in Israel right now. However, New Brunswickers, look, we're better than this. We don't, we don't condone this in any way, shape or form," said Austin said, according to the news agency.</p>

<p>He added that a rally in support of the synagogue was being organised on Sunday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I don't think it represents by any stretch the vast majority of New Brunswickers. I think it's a few bad actors and again, we offer any support we can to the Fredericton City Police to ensure these folks are caught," the public safety minister further said on the vandalism incident.</p>


The Sgoolai Israel Synagogue in Canada's Fredericton was vandalised on International Holocaust Remembrance Day on Saturday (Jan 27). According to a report by CBC, Fredericton police said they were investigating whether the vandalism was the result of targeted hostility.

The Sgoolai Israel Synagogue in Canada's Fredericton was vandalised on International Holocaust Remembrance Day on Saturday (Jan 27). According to a report by CBC, Fredericton police said they were investigating whether the vandalism was the result of targeted hostility. Police officials had received a report that someone noticed the damage on Saturday. Police arrived at the site to find that the synagogue had been damaged. Multiple windows were shattered. New Brunswick Minister of Public Safety Kris Austin expressed his support for the local Jewish community and said government officials are working with local law enforcement to investigate the incident, reported news agency Reuters. "It's a very tense world that we're living in, on a lot of different fronts and, of course, we see what's happening in Israel and Gaza, so we understand that New Brunswickers are not going to be immune to some of the tension that is the result of some of the, basically the war that is happening over in Israel right now. However, New Brunswickers, look, we're better than this. We don't, we don't condone this in any way, shape or form," said Austin said, according to the news agency. He added that a rally in support of the synagogue was being organised on Sunday. "I don't think it represents by any stretch the vast majority of New Brunswickers. I think it's a few bad actors and again, we offer any support we can to the Fredericton City Police to ensure these folks are caught," the public safety minister further said on the vandalism incident.

Synagogue in Canada's Fredericton vandalised on International Holocaust Remembrance Day

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidUoaZOeCgcyyv" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p>Political leaders in India on Sunday (Jan 28) reacted to Janata Dal (United) President Nitish Kumar exiting the Mahagathbandhan (Grand Alliance) in Bihar and rejoining hands with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA). Kumar, the president of the JD(U), was appointed as the acting chief minister by the governor after tendering his resignation.</p>

<p>Citing sources from Bihar BJP, news agency ANI reported that CM Kumar and two deputy CMs from the BJP are likely to take oath later on Sunday. These developments come just months before the Lok Sabha election in India.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bihar-political-crisis-live-cm-nitish-seeks-time-to-meet-governor-today-684394">Click here to follow all updates on the political crisis in Bihar</a></strong></p>

<p>The Grand Alliance in Bihar consists of the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), the Congress, and other Left Parties. This is Kumar's fifth switch to a political alliance in a decade. During his tenure as CM, Kumar has several times switched between political alliances.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Politicians react</strong></h2>

<p>Reacting to Kumar's decision to dump the Grand Alliance, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge said he knew this would happen.</p>

<p>"Earlier, he and we were fighting together. When I talked to Lalu Prasad Yadav and Tejashwi Yadav, they also said that Nitish is going. If he (Nitish) wanted to stay, he would have stayed but he wants to go. That's why we already knew this, but to keep the INDIA bloc intact, if we say something wrong, the wrong message will be sent," Kharge said.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Jalpaiguri, West Bengal | Congress General Secretary in-charge Communications, Jairam Ramesh says, "It is not surprising that Nitish Kumar has resigned. He is a seasoned politician. He has been a Chief Minister for several years. But he keeps changing his political… <a href="https://t.co/fRB0TTBLM8">pic.twitter.com/fRB0TTBLM8</a></p>
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<p>"It is not surprising that Nitish Kumar has resigned. He is a seasoned politician. He has been a chief minister for several years. But he keeps changing his political colours. He gives a tough challenge to chameleons. People of Bihar will give a befitting reply to him and to those who are making him dance from Delhi," Congress General Secretary in-charge Communications, Jairam Ramesh said.</p>

<p>RJD leader Mrityunjay Tiwari speaking to ANI said, "What was left with him? The public is the master. It watches everything and it will demand an account for everything...".</p>

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<p>"If the main man (Nitish Kumar) behind this alliance says so, then there was no future (for INDIA alliance). There is no vacancy for the Prime Ministerial post. BJP will have a historic win in Lok Sabha polls and in Bihar we will win the whole 40 seats," former Union minister and BJP MP Ravi Shankar Prasad told the news agency.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-appoints-state-election-in-charges-for-lok-sabha-polls-684377">BJP appoints state election in-charges for Lok Sabha polls</a></strong></p>

<p>Hitting out at the Congress, JD(U) leader KC Tyagi said that the grand old party wanted to steal the leadership of the INDIA alliance. "Congress kept dragging the seat sharing, we kept saying that seat sharing needs to happen immediately...INDIA lacked plans to fight against BJP," he said.</p>

<h2><strong>‘I was hurt, left INDIA bloc’</strong></h2>

<p>After submitting his resignation, Nitish Kumar said he was hurt and hence left the INDIA bloc.</p>

<p>"The situation came to this pass as the state of affairs within the ruling alliance (Mahagathbandhan) in Bihar was not good. I sought the advice and opinions of everyone before coming to this decision. I took all opinions and suggestions to hear," Kumar told reporters</p>

<p>Hitting out at the RJD, his earlier alliance,&nbsp;whose leader Tejashwi Yadav was the deputy CM, Kumar said, "The alliance was sailing through choppy waters. Though we came together on the basis of a common minimum programme and promises to people, we failed to live up to the expectations and discharge our salient duties. Eventually, we fell out and even stopped being on speaking terms."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Political leaders in India on Sunday (Jan 28) reacted to Janata Dal (United) President Nitish Kumar exiting the Mahagathbandhan (Grand Alliance) in Bihar and rejoining hands with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA).

Political leaders in India on Sunday (Jan 28) reacted to Janata Dal (United) President Nitish Kumar exiting the Mahagathbandhan (Grand Alliance) in Bihar and rejoining hands with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA). Kumar, the president of the JD(U), was appointed as the acting chief minister by the governor after tendering his resignation. Citing sources from Bihar BJP, news agency ANI reported that CM Kumar and two deputy CMs from the BJP are likely to take oath later on Sunday. These developments come just months before the Lok Sabha election in India. Click here to follow all updates on the political crisis in Bihar The Grand Alliance in Bihar consists of the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), the Congress, and other Left Parties. This is Kumar's fifth switch to a political alliance in a decade. During his tenure as CM, Kumar has several times switched between political alliances. Politicians react Reacting to Kumar's decision to dump the Grand Alliance, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge said he knew this would happen. "Earlier, he and we were fighting together. When I talked to Lalu Prasad Yadav and Tejashwi Yadav, they also said that Nitish is going. If he (Nitish) wanted to stay, he would have stayed but he wants to go. That's why we already knew this, but to keep the INDIA bloc intact, if we say something wrong, the wrong message will be sent," Kharge said. #WATCH | Jalpaiguri, West Bengal | Congress General Secretary in-charge Communications, Jairam Ramesh says, "It is not surprising that Nitish Kumar has resigned. He is a seasoned politician. He has been a Chief Minister for several years. But he keeps changing his political… pic.twitter.com/fRB0TTBLM8 — ANI (@ANI) January 28, 2024 × "It is not surprising that Nitish Kumar has resigned. He is a seasoned politician. He has been a chief minister for several years. But he keeps changing his political colours. He gives a tough challenge to chameleons. People of Bihar will give a befitting reply to him and to those who are making him dance from Delhi," Congress General Secretary in-charge Communications, Jairam Ramesh said. RJD leader Mrityunjay Tiwari speaking to ANI said, "What was left with him? The public is the master. It watches everything and it will demand an account for everything...". #WATCH | On INDIA alliance and Bihar political situation, BJP MP Ravi Shankar Prasad says, " If the main man (Nitish Kumar) behind this alliance says so, then there was no future (for INDIA alliance). There is no vacancy for the Prime Ministerial post. BJP will have a historic… pic.twitter.com/fdaCiw270B — ANI (@ANI) January 28, 2024 × "If the main man (Nitish Kumar) behind this alliance says so, then there was no future (for INDIA alliance). There is no vacancy for the Prime Ministerial post. BJP will have a historic win in Lok Sabha polls and in Bihar we will win the whole 40 seats," former Union minister and BJP MP Ravi Shankar Prasad told the news agency. Also read | BJP appoints state election in-charges for Lok Sabha polls Hitting out at the Congress, JD(U) leader KC Tyagi said that the grand old party wanted to steal the leadership of the INDIA alliance. "Congress kept dragging the seat sharing, we kept saying that seat sharing needs to happen immediately...INDIA lacked plans to fight against BJP," he said. ‘I was hurt, left INDIA bloc’ After submitting his resignation, Nitish Kumar said he was hurt and hence left the INDIA bloc. "The situation came to this pass as the state of affairs within the ruling alliance (Mahagathbandhan) in Bihar was not good. I sought the advice and opinions of everyone before coming to this decision. I took all opinions and suggestions to hear," Kumar told reporters Hitting out at the RJD, his earlier alliance, whose leader Tejashwi Yadav was the deputy CM, Kumar said, "The alliance was sailing through choppy waters. Though we came together on the basis of a common minimum programme and promises to people, we failed to live up to the expectations and discharge our salient duties. Eventually, we fell out and even stopped being on speaking terms." (With inputs from agencies)

‘He gives tough challenge to chameleons’: Cong, RJD react to Nitish dumping Grand Alliance in Bihar

<p>Indonesian President Joko Widodo on Wednesday (Jan 24) stoked controversy after he said that presidents can take sides in an election. According to a report by the South China Morning Post (SCMP) on Thursday, President Widodo, a leader of the ruling Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDI-P), told reporters that campaigning was a democratic right.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Every minister (has) this same (right). The president can campaign. The president can take sides. But the most important thing is that during the campaign (we) must not use state facilities," Widodo said during a handover ceremony of new military transport aircraft to the air force at Jakarta's Perdanakusumah Air Base.</p>

<p>Widodo faced criticism for his remarks, the report said. But this is not the first time that the president made controversial remarks. In September last year, Widodo said he would meddle in the general election in Feb 2024 to ensure that his successor would continue his programmes.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indonesian-presidents-son-summoned-by-election-watchdog-ahead-of-polls-676054">Indonesian president's son summoned by election watchdog ahead of polls</a></strong></p>

<p>Till now, Widodo has not officially stated his support for any of the presidential candidates for the Feb 14 election. However, he has been widely perceived to have given his tacit support to Defence Minister Prabowo Subianto’s campaign given that the ticket’s vice presidential candidate is Widodo’s eldest son Gibran.</p>

<p>His behind-the-scenes backing of Subianto has fractured his government, with several ministers weighing resignation, Bloomberg reported. These include Finance Minister Sri Mulyani Indrawati and Foreign Affairs Minister Retno Marsudi.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Speaking to the SCMP, Devi Darmawan, a political researcher at the National Research and Innovation Agency, said that Widodo's recent remarks could further damage his relationship with former president and chairperson of PDI-P Megawati Sukarnoputri.</p>

<p>“Among all political party leaders, Megawati has voiced the loudest criticism that our democracy is declining [under Joko]. She once said that the current election resembles elections during the New Order,” Darmawan said, referring to Suharto's dictatorship.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Ari Dwipayana, coordinator of the president’s special staff, clarified Widodo’s statement by saying the law did not forbid a sitting president from having a preferred candidate or from campaigning for them.</p>

<p>Dwipayana highlighted that former presidents including Megawati took part in campaigns for their respective parties when they held public offices. However, Darmawan argued that Megawati and other ex-presidents were party leaders at the time and were only allowed to campaign in that capacity, not as presidents.</p>

<p>“Jokowi is not a chairman of any party, so he is not responsible for the direction and political development of any party. He is not a participant in the coming election either. So what is his political interest in declaring partiality?,” the political researcher said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs form agencies)</em></p>


Indonesian President Joko Widodo on Wednesday (Jan 24) stoked controversy after he said that presidents can take sides in an election. According to a report by the South China Morning Post (SCMP) on Thursday, President Widodo, a leader of the ruling Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDI-P), told reporters that campaigning was a democratic right.

Indonesian President Joko Widodo on Wednesday (Jan 24) stoked controversy after he said that presidents can take sides in an election. According to a report by the South China Morning Post (SCMP) on Thursday, President Widodo, a leader of the ruling Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDI-P), told reporters that campaigning was a democratic right. "Every minister (has) this same (right). The president can campaign. The president can take sides. But the most important thing is that during the campaign (we) must not use state facilities," Widodo said during a handover ceremony of new military transport aircraft to the air force at Jakarta's Perdanakusumah Air Base. Widodo faced criticism for his remarks, the report said. But this is not the first time that the president made controversial remarks. In September last year, Widodo said he would meddle in the general election in Feb 2024 to ensure that his successor would continue his programmes. Also read | Indonesian president's son summoned by election watchdog ahead of polls Till now, Widodo has not officially stated his support for any of the presidential candidates for the Feb 14 election. However, he has been widely perceived to have given his tacit support to Defence Minister Prabowo Subianto’s campaign given that the ticket’s vice presidential candidate is Widodo’s eldest son Gibran. His behind-the-scenes backing of Subianto has fractured his government, with several ministers weighing resignation, Bloomberg reported. These include Finance Minister Sri Mulyani Indrawati and Foreign Affairs Minister Retno Marsudi. Speaking to the SCMP, Devi Darmawan, a political researcher at the National Research and Innovation Agency, said that Widodo's recent remarks could further damage his relationship with former president and chairperson of PDI-P Megawati Sukarnoputri. “Among all political party leaders, Megawati has voiced the loudest criticism that our democracy is declining [under Joko]. She once said that the current election resembles elections during the New Order,” Darmawan said, referring to Suharto's dictatorship. Meanwhile, Ari Dwipayana, coordinator of the president’s special staff, clarified Widodo’s statement by saying the law did not forbid a sitting president from having a preferred candidate or from campaigning for them. Dwipayana highlighted that former presidents including Megawati took part in campaigns for their respective parties when they held public offices. However, Darmawan argued that Megawati and other ex-presidents were party leaders at the time and were only allowed to campaign in that capacity, not as presidents. “Jokowi is not a chairman of any party, so he is not responsible for the direction and political development of any party. He is not a participant in the coming election either. So what is his political interest in declaring partiality?,” the political researcher said. (With inputs form agencies)

Indonesian President Joko Widodo says ‘presidents can take sides’ in poll, faces criticism

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<p>The Security Service of Ukraine, commonly known as SBU, said on Saturday (Jan 27) that it uncovered a corruption scheme in the purchase of arms by the country's military to the tune of about $40 million. According to a report by&nbsp;news agency Reuters, the SBU said that an investigation had "exposed officials of the ministry of defence and managers of arms supplier Lviv Arsenal, who stole nearly 1.5 billion hryvnias in the purchase of shells."</p>

<p>"According to the investigation, former and current high-ranking officials of the ministry of defence and heads of affiliated companies are involved in the embezzlement," the SBU said, adding the embezzlement involved the purchase of 100,000 mortar shells for the military.</p>

<p>The allegations were confirmed by the defence ministry.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>'Five people served notices of suspicion'</strong></h2>

<p>The SBU said on Saturday that a contract for the mortar shells was clinched by Lviv Arsenal in August 2022- six months after Russia's offensive- and payment was made in advance, with some funds transferred abroad. However, no arms were provided, and some of the funds were moved to other foreign accounts.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-says-obviously-ukraine-shot-army-plane-carrying-war-prisoners-684096">Putin says 'obviously' Ukraine shot army plane carrying war prisoners</a></strong></p>

<p>The security service also said that five individuals had been served "notices of suspicion" - the first stage in Ukrainian legal proceedings - both in the ministry and the arms supplier. One of the suspects was detained while trying to cross the Ukrainian border.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Ukraine's prosecutor general said the stolen funds have been seized and will be returned to the defence budget.</p>

<p>In recent months, Ukraine has seen a series of corruption scandals including several others within the defence ministry.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Pessimism over prospects for a victory is rising in Ukraine</strong></p>

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<p>The latest expose by the SBU comes amidst&nbsp;Republican lawmakers in the United States resisting President Joe Biden's efforts to send more aid to Kyiv. Last week, President Biden's top aids told lawmakers in a private meeting that if Congress failed to authorise additional military aid for Ukraine in the coming days, Russia could win the war in a matter of weeks or months, NBC News reported.</p>

<p>Citing sources, the report said that National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan and the Director of National Intelligence Avril Haines have said that Kyiv would run out of certain air defence and artillery capabilities in the coming weeks.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The Security Service of Ukraine, commonly known as SBU, said on Saturday (Jan 27) that it uncovered a corruption scheme in the purchase of arms by the country's military to the tune of about $40 million.

The Security Service of Ukraine, commonly known as SBU, said on Saturday (Jan 27) that it uncovered a corruption scheme in the purchase of arms by the country's military to the tune of about $40 million. According to a report by news agency Reuters, the SBU said that an investigation had "exposed officials of the ministry of defence and managers of arms supplier Lviv Arsenal, who stole nearly 1.5 billion hryvnias in the purchase of shells." "According to the investigation, former and current high-ranking officials of the ministry of defence and heads of affiliated companies are involved in the embezzlement," the SBU said, adding the embezzlement involved the purchase of 100,000 mortar shells for the military. The allegations were confirmed by the defence ministry. 'Five people served notices of suspicion' The SBU said on Saturday that a contract for the mortar shells was clinched by Lviv Arsenal in August 2022- six months after Russia's offensive- and payment was made in advance, with some funds transferred abroad. However, no arms were provided, and some of the funds were moved to other foreign accounts. Also read | Putin says 'obviously' Ukraine shot army plane carrying war prisoners The security service also said that five individuals had been served "notices of suspicion" - the first stage in Ukrainian legal proceedings - both in the ministry and the arms supplier. One of the suspects was detained while trying to cross the Ukrainian border. Meanwhile, Ukraine's prosecutor general said the stolen funds have been seized and will be returned to the defence budget. In recent months, Ukraine has seen a series of corruption scandals including several others within the defence ministry. Also watch | Pessimism over prospects for a victory is rising in Ukraine × The latest expose by the SBU comes amidst Republican lawmakers in the United States resisting President Joe Biden's efforts to send more aid to Kyiv. Last week, President Biden's top aids told lawmakers in a private meeting that if Congress failed to authorise additional military aid for Ukraine in the coming days, Russia could win the war in a matter of weeks or months, NBC News reported. Citing sources, the report said that National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan and the Director of National Intelligence Avril Haines have said that Kyiv would run out of certain air defence and artillery capabilities in the coming weeks. (With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine says it uncovered corruption scheme in weapons procurement by military

<p>Former United States president Donald Trump has been ordered to pay $83.3 million to journalist E&nbsp;Jean Carroll, who accused the Republican of defaming her and damaging her reputation in 2019.&nbsp;In its verdict, a Manhattan federal court jury on Friday (Jan 26) awarded Carroll $18.3 million in compensatory damages, with an additional $65 million in punitive damages.</p>

<p>We are tracking all the live updates on the crisis in the Middle East. At the time of writing the morning brief, the latest update is the US military said that a Houthi anti-ship missile damaged an oil tanker in the Gulf of Aden but no injuries were reported.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In other news from around the world, the US on Friday approved the sale of F-16 warplanes to Turkey. In a statement, the US State Department said that Turkey would get 40 new F-16s and upgrades to 79 of the jets in its existing fleet.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Click on the headlines to read more:</strong></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-ordered-to-pay-833mn-in-damages-to-e-jean-carroll-defamation-trial-684136"><strong>Donald Trump ordered to pay $83.3mn in E. Jean Carroll defamation trial</strong></a></p>

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<p>A Manhattan federal court jury has ruled that former US President Donald Trump must pay $83.3 million to journalist E Jean Carroll. Carroll had accused Trump of defaming her and damaging her reputation by denying allegations of rape. The verdict was delivered on Friday (Jan 26) after a five-day trial, concluding with a punitive damages award that far surpassed the $10 million sought by Carroll.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/middle-east-crisis-live-unsc-to-meet-next-week-after-icjs-gaza-ruling-684133"><strong>Middle East crisis LIVE: Houthi missile damages oil tanker in Gulf of Aden</strong></a></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/01/27/408283-middle-east-crisis-live-unsc-to-meet-after-icjs-gaza-ruling.png?imwidth=500" /></p>

<p>The United States military said on Friday that a&nbsp;Houthi anti-ship missile damaged an oil tanker in the Gulf of Aden but no injuries were reported. The military said that a US Navy ship was providing&nbsp;assistance to the oil tanker.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-approves-sale-of-f-16s-to-turkey-ending-months-of-negotiations-684142"><strong>US approves sale of F-16s to Turkey, ending months of negotiations</strong></a></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/01/27/408287-2024-01-27t022334z2lynxmpek0q00lrtroptp4usa-jets-turkey-greece.JPG?imwidth=500" /></p>

<p>The United States on Friday (Jan 26) approved the sale of F-16 warplanes to Turkey. In a statement, the US State Department said that Turkey would get 40 new F-16s and upgrades to 79 of the jets in its existing fleet. As required by American law, the State Department notified Congress of the agreement, as well as a separate $8.6 billion sale of 40 F-35s to Greece.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/singapore-indian-origin-man-jailed-for-molesting-domestic-helper-punching-a-man-684159"><strong>Singapore: Indian-origin man jailed for molesting domestic helper, punching a man</strong></a></p>

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<p>An Indian origin man in Singapore was jailed for molesting a domestic helper in a lift, and punching a man.&nbsp;According to a report by the news agency PTI, 61-year-old&nbsp;Singaram Palianeapan was jailed for 10&nbsp;months for both crimes.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;India-France agree on partnership opportunities</strong></p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>


Former United States president Donald Trump has been ordered to pay $83.3 million to journalist E Jean Carroll, who accused the Republican of defaming her and damaging her reputation in 2019.

Former United States president Donald Trump has been ordered to pay $83.3 million to journalist E Jean Carroll, who accused the Republican of defaming her and damaging her reputation in 2019. In its verdict, a Manhattan federal court jury on Friday (Jan 26) awarded Carroll $18.3 million in compensatory damages, with an additional $65 million in punitive damages. We are tracking all the live updates on the crisis in the Middle East. At the time of writing the morning brief, the latest update is the US military said that a Houthi anti-ship missile damaged an oil tanker in the Gulf of Aden but no injuries were reported. In other news from around the world, the US on Friday approved the sale of F-16 warplanes to Turkey. In a statement, the US State Department said that Turkey would get 40 new F-16s and upgrades to 79 of the jets in its existing fleet. Click on the headlines to read more: Donald Trump ordered to pay $83.3mn in E. Jean Carroll defamation trial A Manhattan federal court jury has ruled that former US President Donald Trump must pay $83.3 million to journalist E Jean Carroll. Carroll had accused Trump of defaming her and damaging her reputation by denying allegations of rape. The verdict was delivered on Friday (Jan 26) after a five-day trial, concluding with a punitive damages award that far surpassed the $10 million sought by Carroll. Middle East crisis LIVE: Houthi missile damages oil tanker in Gulf of Aden The United States military said on Friday that a Houthi anti-ship missile damaged an oil tanker in the Gulf of Aden but no injuries were reported. The military said that a US Navy ship was providing assistance to the oil tanker. US approves sale of F-16s to Turkey, ending months of negotiations The United States on Friday (Jan 26) approved the sale of F-16 warplanes to Turkey. In a statement, the US State Department said that Turkey would get 40 new F-16s and upgrades to 79 of the jets in its existing fleet. As required by American law, the State Department notified Congress of the agreement, as well as a separate $8.6 billion sale of 40 F-35s to Greece. Singapore: Indian-origin man jailed for molesting domestic helper, punching a man An Indian origin man in Singapore was jailed for molesting a domestic helper in a lift, and punching a man. According to a report by the news agency PTI, 61-year-old Singaram Palianeapan was jailed for 10 months for both crimes. Watch | India-France agree on partnership opportunities ×

Morning brief: Trump ordered to pay $83.3mn in Carroll defamation trial, Middle East crisis updates, and more

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<p>The United States on Friday (Jan 26) approved the sale of F-16 warplanes to Turkey. In a statement, the US State Department said that Turkey would get 40 new F-16s and upgrades to 79 of the jets in its existing fleet. As required by American law, the State Department notified Congress of the agreement, as well as a separate $8.6 billion sale of 40 F-35s to Greece.</p>

<p>A report by the news agency AFP said that Turkey's air force would benefit from new F-16s, as it has suffered from Ankara's expulsion from the US-led F-35 joint strike fighter program in 2019 over Turkey President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's decision to acquire an advanced Russian missile defence system.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-willing-to-let-ukraine-join-nato-new-report-indicates-renewed-peace-effort-683946">Putin willing to let Ukraine join NATO? New report indicates renewed peace effort</a></strong></p>

<p>After the transfer of the formal notification by the State Department, Congress has 15 days to object to the sale, after which it is considered final.</p>

<h2><strong>The first request for jets made in 2021</strong></h2>

<p>Washington's approval comes after Turkey <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-ratifies-swedens-much-delayed-nato-bid-ball-now-in-hungarys-court-683014">ratified Sweden's NATO membership on Tuesday</a></strong>. President Erdogan initially objected to Sweden's NATO bid over Stockholm's perceived acceptance of Kurdish groups that Ankara views as "terrorist."</p>

<p>Stockholm responded by tightening its anti-terrorism legislation and taking other security steps demanded by Erdogan. Earlier, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken told Ankara that the Swedish candidacy's ratification could help break congressional resistance to the F-16 sale.</p>

<p>Turkey first requested the fighter jets in Oct 2021, but its delay in approving Sweden's NATO bid had been a major obstacle to winning congressional approval for the sale.</p>

<h2><strong>A difficult decision</strong></h2>

<p>The Senate Foreign Relations Committee is one of the four key committees in the US that needs to approve arms transfers. On Friday, the committee's chair Democratic Senator Ben Cardin highlighted that the approval of the sale of F-16s was a difficult decision.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Sweden finally overcomes NATO roadblock as Turkish Parliament approves NATO bid</strong></p>

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<p>"My approval of Turkey’s request to purchase F-16 aircraft has been contingent on Turkish approval of Sweden’s NATO membership. But make no mistake: This was not a decision I came to lightly," Senator Cardin said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Turkey needs to urgently improve its human rights record, cooperate better on holding Russia accountable for its invasion in Ukraine and help lower the temperature in the Middle East," Cardin added.</p>

<p>"My concerns have been strongly and consistently conveyed to the Biden administration as part of our ongoing engagement, and I am encouraged by the productive direction of their discussions with Turkish officials to address these issues," he further said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The United States on Friday (Jan 26) approved the sale of F-16 warplanes to Turkey. In a statement, the US State Department said that Turkey would get 40 new F-16s and upgrades to 79 of the jets in its existing fleet.

The United States on Friday (Jan 26) approved the sale of F-16 warplanes to Turkey. In a statement, the US State Department said that Turkey would get 40 new F-16s and upgrades to 79 of the jets in its existing fleet. As required by American law, the State Department notified Congress of the agreement, as well as a separate $8.6 billion sale of 40 F-35s to Greece. A report by the news agency AFP said that Turkey's air force would benefit from new F-16s, as it has suffered from Ankara's expulsion from the US-led F-35 joint strike fighter program in 2019 over Turkey President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's decision to acquire an advanced Russian missile defence system. Also read | Putin willing to let Ukraine join NATO? New report indicates renewed peace effort After the transfer of the formal notification by the State Department, Congress has 15 days to object to the sale, after which it is considered final. The first request for jets made in 2021 Washington's approval comes after Turkey ratified Sweden's NATO membership on Tuesday. President Erdogan initially objected to Sweden's NATO bid over Stockholm's perceived acceptance of Kurdish groups that Ankara views as "terrorist." Stockholm responded by tightening its anti-terrorism legislation and taking other security steps demanded by Erdogan. Earlier, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken told Ankara that the Swedish candidacy's ratification could help break congressional resistance to the F-16 sale. Turkey first requested the fighter jets in Oct 2021, but its delay in approving Sweden's NATO bid had been a major obstacle to winning congressional approval for the sale. A difficult decision The Senate Foreign Relations Committee is one of the four key committees in the US that needs to approve arms transfers. On Friday, the committee's chair Democratic Senator Ben Cardin highlighted that the approval of the sale of F-16s was a difficult decision. Also watch | Sweden finally overcomes NATO roadblock as Turkish Parliament approves NATO bid × "My approval of Turkey’s request to purchase F-16 aircraft has been contingent on Turkish approval of Sweden’s NATO membership. But make no mistake: This was not a decision I came to lightly," Senator Cardin said. "Turkey needs to urgently improve its human rights record, cooperate better on holding Russia accountable for its invasion in Ukraine and help lower the temperature in the Middle East," Cardin added. "My concerns have been strongly and consistently conveyed to the Biden administration as part of our ongoing engagement, and I am encouraged by the productive direction of their discussions with Turkish officials to address these issues," he further said. (With inputs from agencies)

US approves sale of F-16s to Turkey, ending months of negotiations

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<p>The top court of the United Nations on Friday (Jan 26) said that it is under its jurisdiction to rule over emergency measures as appealed by South Africa in the genocide case filed against Israel, in the wake of its ongoing war in Gaza.</p>

<p>Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had hinted that he would not feel bound by any ICJ order. "No one will stop us -- not The Hague, not the Axis of Evil and no one else," Prime Minister Netanyahu said on Jan 14, referring to the Iran-aligned "axis of resistance" groups in Lebanon, Syria, Iraq and Yemen.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-hostages-impregnated-by-hamas-terrorists-to-receive-financial-psychological-help-report-683458">Israeli hostages impregnated by Hamas terrorists to receive financial, psychological help: Report</a></strong></p>

<p>The top UN court's ruling against Israel could increase political pressure on the country.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What is the case?</strong></h2>

<p>Earlier in January, South Africa had asked the ICJ to order an emergency suspension of Israel's devastating military campaign in Gaza. The Israeli offensive came when Hamas launched its unprecedented Oct 7 attack, which resulted in about 1,140 people killed in Israel, mostly civilians.</p>

<p>More than 25,000 people have been killed in the Gaza Strip in Israeli bombardments. Most of the victims have been women and children.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;ICJ to rule on South Africa's Genocide case against Israel</strong></p>

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<p>South Africa filed a case in the ICJ, accusing Israel of carrying out a state-led genocide. Pretoria filed nine injunctions to the court which included a demand for an order that would direct Israel to suspend all military operations in Gaza; and a separate order that would direct the Netanyahu administration to facilitate and not impede delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza.</p>

<p>AFP reported that South Africa can take Israel to the ICJ as both countries signed the Genocide Convention and disputes over the text have to be settled at the top court.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Palestinians welcome case</strong></h2>

<p>Palestinians in the West Bank have<strong>&nbsp;</strong>welcomed the genocide case (against Israel) brought by South Africa, saying the proceedings were an opportunity to hold Israel to account for its offensive in Gaza.</p>

<p>Addressing a rally in Ramallah earlier this month, Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammad Shtayyeh said, "Israel was built upon the crimes it committed against the Palestinian people."</p>

<p>"Thank you South Africa!" he added.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-proposes-2-month-hiatus-in-gaza-signals-potential-hostage-release-since-nov-truce-report-682660">Israel proposes 2-month hiatus in Gaza for another potential hostage release: Report</a></strong></p>

<p>Speaking to the news agency Reuters on Jan 11, Atieh Jawabra, a former political science professor at Al-Quds University Abu Dis, said he had long been waiting for Israel to appear before an international court for its crimes, which he said go back to the mass expulsion of Palestinians during the 1948 war of Israel's founding.</p>

<p>"Israel, the United States and the West have put Israel above the law over the course of its history," Jawabra, 68, said.</p>

<h2><strong>What has Israel said?</strong></h2>

<p>Israel has dismissed South Africa's genocide allegations as "grossly distorted" and said it had a right to defend itself and was targeting Hamas, not Palestinian civilians. Israel has also accused Pretoria of playing "advocate of the devil" for Hamas.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier this month, Israeli President Isaac Herzog said that there was nothing more "atrocious and preposterous" than a lawsuit filed in the ICJ accusing Israel of genocide against Palestinians.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Speaking to US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, Herzog accused South Africa of hypocrisy for bringing the case, and thanked Washington for its support of Israel, which says it makes utmost efforts to avoid civilian casualties in Gaza.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-67-of-arab-world-says-hamas-oct-7-attack-was-legitimate-679859">67% of Arab world says Hamas’ Oct 7 attack was legitimate, poll shows</a></strong></p>

<p>"Actually our enemies, Hamas, in their charter, call for the destruction of our nation, the State of Israel - the only nation-state of the Jewish people," Herzog added.</p>

<p>The Israeli president also said that his country must win the war as the conflict affects international values and that of the free world.</p>

<p>The US, which has backed Israel, has already rejected South Africa's case, and Germany said it would intervene as a third party on Israel's side when the court hears the broader genocide case.</p>

<h2><strong>ICJ's little power to enforce its verdicts</strong></h2>

<p>Though a landmark ruling is expected on Friday, the ICJ has little power to enforce its verdict. The ICJ had ordered Russia to stop its invasion of Ukraine one month after it began, to no avail.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Orders from the ICJ, which rules in disputes between countries, are legally binding and cannot be appealed, AFP reported. In the present case, the ICJ is only ruling on South Africa's plea for emergency measures, not on the fundamental issue of whether Israel could be committing genocide -- that will take years.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The top court of the United Nations on Friday (Jan 26) said that it is under its jurisdiction to rule over emergency measures as appealed by South Africa in the genocide case filed against Israel, in the wake of its ongoing war in Gaza.

The top court of the United Nations on Friday (Jan 26) said that it is under its jurisdiction to rule over emergency measures as appealed by South Africa in the genocide case filed against Israel, in the wake of its ongoing war in Gaza. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had hinted that he would not feel bound by any ICJ order. "No one will stop us -- not The Hague, not the Axis of Evil and no one else," Prime Minister Netanyahu said on Jan 14, referring to the Iran-aligned "axis of resistance" groups in Lebanon, Syria, Iraq and Yemen. Also read | Israeli hostages impregnated by Hamas terrorists to receive financial, psychological help: Report The top UN court's ruling against Israel could increase political pressure on the country. What is the case? Earlier in January, South Africa had asked the ICJ to order an emergency suspension of Israel's devastating military campaign in Gaza. The Israeli offensive came when Hamas launched its unprecedented Oct 7 attack, which resulted in about 1,140 people killed in Israel, mostly civilians. More than 25,000 people have been killed in the Gaza Strip in Israeli bombardments. Most of the victims have been women and children. Also watch | ICJ to rule on South Africa's Genocide case against Israel × South Africa filed a case in the ICJ, accusing Israel of carrying out a state-led genocide. Pretoria filed nine injunctions to the court which included a demand for an order that would direct Israel to suspend all military operations in Gaza; and a separate order that would direct the Netanyahu administration to facilitate and not impede delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza. AFP reported that South Africa can take Israel to the ICJ as both countries signed the Genocide Convention and disputes over the text have to be settled at the top court. Palestinians welcome case Palestinians in the West Bank have welcomed the genocide case (against Israel) brought by South Africa, saying the proceedings were an opportunity to hold Israel to account for its offensive in Gaza. Addressing a rally in Ramallah earlier this month, Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammad Shtayyeh said, "Israel was built upon the crimes it committed against the Palestinian people." "Thank you South Africa!" he added. Also read | Israel proposes 2-month hiatus in Gaza for another potential hostage release: Report Speaking to the news agency Reuters on Jan 11, Atieh Jawabra, a former political science professor at Al-Quds University Abu Dis, said he had long been waiting for Israel to appear before an international court for its crimes, which he said go back to the mass expulsion of Palestinians during the 1948 war of Israel's founding. "Israel, the United States and the West have put Israel above the law over the course of its history," Jawabra, 68, said. What has Israel said? Israel has dismissed South Africa's genocide allegations as "grossly distorted" and said it had a right to defend itself and was targeting Hamas, not Palestinian civilians. Israel has also accused Pretoria of playing "advocate of the devil" for Hamas. Earlier this month, Israeli President Isaac Herzog said that there was nothing more "atrocious and preposterous" than a lawsuit filed in the ICJ accusing Israel of genocide against Palestinians. Speaking to US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, Herzog accused South Africa of hypocrisy for bringing the case, and thanked Washington for its support of Israel, which says it makes utmost efforts to avoid civilian casualties in Gaza. Also read | 67% of Arab world says Hamas’ Oct 7 attack was legitimate, poll shows "Actually our enemies, Hamas, in their charter, call for the destruction of our nation, the State of Israel - the only nation-state of the Jewish people," Herzog added. The Israeli president also said that his country must win the war as the conflict affects international values and that of the free world. The US, which has backed Israel, has already rejected South Africa's case, and Germany said it would intervene as a third party on Israel's side when the court hears the broader genocide case. ICJ's little power to enforce its verdicts Though a landmark ruling is expected on Friday, the ICJ has little power to enforce its verdict. The ICJ had ordered Russia to stop its invasion of Ukraine one month after it began, to no avail. Orders from the ICJ, which rules in disputes between countries, are legally binding and cannot be appealed, AFP reported. In the present case, the ICJ is only ruling on South Africa's plea for emergency measures, not on the fundamental issue of whether Israel could be committing genocide -- that will take years. (With inputs from agencies)

Explained: UN top court rules against Israel in Gaza 'genocide case'. What is it?

<p>A magnitude 6.1 earthquake struck the southern Pacific coast of&nbsp;Guatemala&nbsp;late on Friday, according to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), causing some to flee their homes and with early reports of damage to buildings.</p>

<p>The quake was also felt in neighbouring El Salvador.</p>

<p>There were no immediate reports of injuries, just past midnight, while many slept.</p>

<p>Officials in El Salvador described the quake as "strong" and said they were monitoring developments.</p>

<p>The earthquake's epicentre was near the&nbsp;Guatemalan town of Taxisco, about 60 miles (100 km) south of the capital&nbsp;Guatemala&nbsp;City, where alarms sounded and some frightened residents evacuated their homes.</p>

<p>USGS said the quake struck at a depth of 108 km (67 miles).</p>

<p>Parts of the facade of a church in the town of San Pablo Jocopilas, northwest of the quake's epicenter, fell down, said&nbsp;Guatemala's emergency services agency CONRED.</p>


A magnitude 6.1 earthquake struck the southern Pacific coast of Guatemala late on Friday, according to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), causing some to flee their homes and with early reports of damage to buildings.

A magnitude 6.1 earthquake struck the southern Pacific coast of Guatemala late on Friday, according to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), causing some to flee their homes and with early reports of damage to buildings. The quake was also felt in neighbouring El Salvador. There were no immediate reports of injuries, just past midnight, while many slept. Officials in El Salvador described the quake as "strong" and said they were monitoring developments. The earthquake's epicentre was near the Guatemalan town of Taxisco, about 60 miles (100 km) south of the capital Guatemala City, where alarms sounded and some frightened residents evacuated their homes. USGS said the quake struck at a depth of 108 km (67 miles). Parts of the facade of a church in the town of San Pablo Jocopilas, northwest of the quake's epicenter, fell down, said Guatemala's emergency services agency CONRED.

Strong quake in southern Guatemala jolts residents, tremors felt in El Salvador

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