At least 35 people were killed, including eight members of a single family, and 40 more wounded in twin car bombings in central Somalia on Wednesday (January 4),&nbsp;a senior police officer said.&nbsp;The Al-Shabaab has claimed responsibility for these blasts.&nbsp;Two cars packed with explosives were simultaneously detonated in Mahas district in the Hiran region.&nbsp;

Another community leader, Mohamud Suleyman, said that 40 people were wounded and most were transported to the capital city Mogadishu for treatment.

According to witnesses, the blasts occurred near a restaurant which is not far from a district administration building.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/middle-east/blast-outside-kabuls-military-airport-several-killed-multiple-injured-reports-548450">At least 10 killed, several injured in blast outside Kabul’s military airport: Reports</a>

Earlier on Wednesday, Osman Nur, a police commander in Mahas told AFP that the terrorists, after having been defeated, resorted to targeting civilians, but this will not stop the will of the people to continue defeating them.&nbsp;

"They have killed innocent civilians in the explosions," Nur said.&nbsp;

Somalia has seen many terror attacks in the past.&nbsp;

On October 29 last year, more than 100 people were killed in two car bombings in Mogadishu. The explosions took place at the education ministry building with Somalia's president Hassan Sheikh Mohamud blaming Al-Shabad for the attacks.&nbsp;

Nearly a&nbsp;month later, eight civilians were killed in a 21-hour siege at a hotel in Mogadishu on November 27 which was popular with politicians and government officials. This came just three months after at least 21 people were killed in a siege at another hotel in the capital city in August.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, on October 3, 2022, a triple car bombing in Beledweyne killed 30 people including local officials.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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At least 35 people were killed, including eight members of a single family, and 40 more wounded in twin car bombings in central Somalia on Wednesday (January 4), a senior police officer said.

At least 35 people were killed, including eight members of a single family, and 40 more wounded in twin car bombings in central Somalia on Wednesday (January 4), a senior police officer said. The Al-Shabaab has claimed responsibility for these blasts. Two cars packed with explosives were simultaneously detonated in Mahas district in the Hiran region. Another community leader, Mohamud Suleyman, said that 40 people were wounded and most were transported to the capital city Mogadishu for treatment. According to witnesses, the blasts occurred near a restaurant which is not far from a district administration building. ALSO READ | At least 10 killed, several injured in blast outside Kabul’s military airport: Reports Earlier on Wednesday, Osman Nur, a police commander in Mahas told AFP that the terrorists, after having been defeated, resorted to targeting civilians, but this will not stop the will of the people to continue defeating them. "They have killed innocent civilians in the explosions," Nur said. Somalia has seen many terror attacks in the past. On October 29 last year, more than 100 people were killed in two car bombings in Mogadishu. The explosions took place at the education ministry building with Somalia's president Hassan Sheikh Mohamud blaming Al-Shabad for the attacks. Nearly a month later, eight civilians were killed in a 21-hour siege at a hotel in Mogadishu on November 27 which was popular with politicians and government officials. This came just three months after at least 21 people were killed in a siege at another hotel in the capital city in August. Meanwhile, on October 3, 2022, a triple car bombing in Beledweyne killed 30 people including local officials. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Somalia: 35 killed, 40 injured in twin car bombings in Mahas district

The German government said on Thursday (January 5) that it will ask arrivals from China for a negative Covid test report amid fears of a spike in infections. In a statement, German health minister Karl Lauterbach said that passengers arriving from China will be required to show at least a negative rapid antigen test report to enter Germany, news agency AFP reported. It is not yet specified when this rule will come into place.&nbsp;

Lauterbach said the authorities would also carry out random spot checks to identify Covid variants and wastewater tests for journeys from China. The health minister also pointed out that Germany would change its entry requirements at a short notice, following a recommendation by European Union (EU) experts to tighten travel rules.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-covid-test-needed-for-travellers-from-china-says-thailand-549683">No Covid test needed for travellers from China, says Thailand</a>

Germany had earlier not imposed any restrictions on Chinese travellers despite other European countries such as France, Italy and the United Kingdom (UK) doing so.&nbsp;

On Wednesday, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/current-covid-wave-from-china-must-be-taken-very-very-seriously-germany-549455">foreign minister Annalena Baerbock </a>said that the current Covid wave from China must be taken "very very" seriously while highlighting Beijing hardly released any details (regarding the pandemic).&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Germans living in China started receiving the BioNTech vaccine against Covid on Thursday, the first such rollout of a foreign vaccine in China which has not approved the use of non-Chinese vaccines despite the massive surge in infections.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/take-just-position-on-covid-china-urges-who-after-virus-data-criticism-549707">Take 'just position' on Covid: China urges WHO after virus data criticism</a>

As per an official agreement during chancellor Olaf Scholz's visit to Beijing in November 2022, Germans aged 12 and older may receive their first dose or a booster of the BioNTech vaccine at designated international hospitals in Beijing, Shanghai, Shenyang, Guangzhou or Chengdu, news agency Reuters reported.&nbsp;

On Tuesday, the German foreign ministry said over 8,000 doses of the vaccine were shipped to China and over 1,500 people registered their interest. The ministry added that German officials were trying to expand the offer (to administer BioNTech vaccines) to other nationalities as well.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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The German government said on Thursday (January 5) that it will ask arrivals from China for a negative Covid test report amid fears of a spike in infections. In a statement, German health minister Karl Lauterbach said that passengers arriving from China will be required to show at least a negative rapid antigen test report to enter Germany, news agency AFP reported.

The German government said on Thursday (January 5) that it will ask arrivals from China for a negative Covid test report amid fears of a spike in infections. In a statement, German health minister Karl Lauterbach said that passengers arriving from China will be required to show at least a negative rapid antigen test report to enter Germany, news agency AFP reported. It is not yet specified when this rule will come into place. Lauterbach said the authorities would also carry out random spot checks to identify Covid variants and wastewater tests for journeys from China. The health minister also pointed out that Germany would change its entry requirements at a short notice, following a recommendation by European Union (EU) experts to tighten travel rules. ALSO READ | No Covid test needed for travellers from China, says Thailand Germany had earlier not imposed any restrictions on Chinese travellers despite other European countries such as France, Italy and the United Kingdom (UK) doing so. On Wednesday, foreign minister Annalena Baerbock said that the current Covid wave from China must be taken "very very" seriously while highlighting Beijing hardly released any details (regarding the pandemic). Meanwhile, Germans living in China started receiving the BioNTech vaccine against Covid on Thursday, the first such rollout of a foreign vaccine in China which has not approved the use of non-Chinese vaccines despite the massive surge in infections. ALSO READ | Take 'just position' on Covid: China urges WHO after virus data criticism As per an official agreement during chancellor Olaf Scholz's visit to Beijing in November 2022, Germans aged 12 and older may receive their first dose or a booster of the BioNTech vaccine at designated international hospitals in Beijing, Shanghai, Shenyang, Guangzhou or Chengdu, news agency Reuters reported. On Tuesday, the German foreign ministry said over 8,000 doses of the vaccine were shipped to China and over 1,500 people registered their interest. The ministry added that German officials were trying to expand the offer (to administer BioNTech vaccines) to other nationalities as well. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Germany makes negative pre-departure Covid test report must for travellers from China

The Taliban administration in Afghanistan said on Thursday that eight militants of the Islamic State (IS) were killed and seven others were arrested following raids on hideouts of the group. These raids were carried out on Wednesday.&nbsp;Taking to Twitter, Taliban spokesperson Zabiullah Mujahid said the Islamic State had a main role in the attack on a Chinese hotel in Kabul and paved way for foreign Islamic State – Khorasan Province (ISKP) members to come to Afghanistan, news agency Reuters reported.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/middle-east/attack-in-eastern-syria-kills-at-least-10-oil-field-workers-548047">Terror attack in eastern Syria kills at least 10 oil field workers, Islamic State blamed</a>

"Lots of weapons and explosives have fallen into the hands of the security forces," Zabiullah said.&nbsp;

The attack on the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/islamic-states-claims-responsibility-for-kabul-hotel-attack-542558">Longan Hotel in Kabul on December 12 last year</a> killed at least three people and injured five Chinese citizens

The Islamic State, while claiming responsibility for the attack, said in a statement two of its members attacked the hotel- frequented by Chinese diplomats and businessmen, where they detonated two explosive devices hidden inside two bags. The group claimed that 30 people were killed or wounded.&nbsp;

Condemning the attack, the Chinese foreign ministry said "This terror attack is abominable and China is deeply shocked."

The Islamic State has claimed responsibility for several high-profile attacks in Kabul. On Monday, the group said it was behind an attack on Taliban forces that killed 20 people and wounded 30 others.&nbsp;

(With agency inputs)

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The Taliban administration in Afghanistan said on Thursday that eight militants of the Islamic State (IS) were killed and seven others were arrested following raids on hideouts of the group.

The Taliban administration in Afghanistan said on Thursday that eight militants of the Islamic State (IS) were killed and seven others were arrested following raids on hideouts of the group. These raids were carried out on Wednesday. Taking to Twitter, Taliban spokesperson Zabiullah Mujahid said the Islamic State had a main role in the attack on a Chinese hotel in Kabul and paved way for foreign Islamic State – Khorasan Province (ISKP) members to come to Afghanistan, news agency Reuters reported. ALSO READ | Terror attack in eastern Syria kills at least 10 oil field workers, Islamic State blamed "Lots of weapons and explosives have fallen into the hands of the security forces," Zabiullah said. The attack on the Longan Hotel in Kabul on December 12 last year killed at least three people and injured five Chinese citizens The Islamic State, while claiming responsibility for the attack, said in a statement two of its members attacked the hotel- frequented by Chinese diplomats and businessmen, where they detonated two explosive devices hidden inside two bags. The group claimed that 30 people were killed or wounded. Condemning the attack, the Chinese foreign ministry said "This terror attack is abominable and China is deeply shocked." The Islamic State has claimed responsibility for several high-profile attacks in Kabul. On Monday, the group said it was behind an attack on Taliban forces that killed 20 people and wounded 30 others. (With agency inputs) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Taliban kill eight IS militants, arrest 7 in raids targeting Kabul hotel attack accused

McDonald's will exit Kazakhstan due to supply restrictions, the American fast food giant's unit in the Central Asian nation said in a statement on Thursday. McDonald's opened its first restaurant in Kazakhstan back in 2016 and operated 24 restaurants across the country, including in the capital city of Astana and the financial hub Almaty.&nbsp;

"The chain of fast food restaurants operated by Food Solutions (local franchise) will cease its work under the brand of McDonald's in Kazakhstan due to supply restrictions," McDonald's Kazakhstan said on Thursday.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pure-happiness-mcdonalds-reopens-in-kyiv-but-for-delivery-only-518179">'Pure happiness': McDonald's reopens in Kyiv, but for delivery only</a>

The statement said that after opening the chain of restaurants, visitors will be offered high-quality products, a varied menu and hospitable service. "Fast food restaurants will continue to operate in accordance with the current high standards, values ​​and business principles," it said.&nbsp;

The fast-food giant pointed out that during its period of activity in Kazakhstan, Food Solutions had paid more than 3 billion tenge (around $ 6.4 million) in taxes to the country's budget and actively participated in helping the society, transferring more than 80 million tenge to charity.

Though McDonald's claims it is exiting due to supply restrictions, news agency Bloomberg reported on Wednesday that the closure is being done after disruptions triggered by the Ukraine war left Kazakhstan without a substitute for Russian meat supplies.&nbsp;

On its website, McDonald's Kazakhstan did not mention it was being closed due to the war in Ukraine.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thousands-of-mcdonalds-employees-suffer-sexual-harassment-report-517819">Thousands of McDonald's employees suffer sexual harassment: Report</a>

The fast food giant employed 2,000 people in Kazakhstan. At present, the website still shows the logo of McDonald's and the company's menu.&nbsp;

McDonald's, like several other Western brands, terminated its operations in Russia last year following Moscow's full-scale invasion of Ukraine. McDonald's, which had applied 62,000 workers in Russia,&nbsp;was bought by Russian businessman Alexander Govor and the restaurant was renamed "Delicious. Full Stop," news agency AFP reported on Thursday. &nbsp; 
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McDonald's will exit Kazakhstan due to supply restrictions, the American fast food giant's unit in the Central Asian nation said in a statement on Thursday. McDonald's opened its first restaurant in Kazakhstan back in 2016 and operated 24 restaurants across the country, including in the capital city of Astana and the financial hub Almaty.

McDonald's will exit Kazakhstan due to supply restrictions, the American fast food giant's unit in the Central Asian nation said in a statement on Thursday. McDonald's opened its first restaurant in Kazakhstan back in 2016 and operated 24 restaurants across the country, including in the capital city of Astana and the financial hub Almaty. "The chain of fast food restaurants operated by Food Solutions (local franchise) will cease its work under the brand of McDonald's in Kazakhstan due to supply restrictions," McDonald's Kazakhstan said on Thursday. ALSO READ | 'Pure happiness': McDonald's reopens in Kyiv, but for delivery only The statement said that after opening the chain of restaurants, visitors will be offered high-quality products, a varied menu and hospitable service. "Fast food restaurants will continue to operate in accordance with the current high standards, values and business principles," it said. The fast-food giant pointed out that during its period of activity in Kazakhstan, Food Solutions had paid more than 3 billion tenge (around $ 6.4 million) in taxes to the country's budget and actively participated in helping the society, transferring more than 80 million tenge to charity. Though McDonald's claims it is exiting due to supply restrictions, news agency Bloomberg reported on Wednesday that the closure is being done after disruptions triggered by the Ukraine war left Kazakhstan without a substitute for Russian meat supplies. On its website, McDonald's Kazakhstan did not mention it was being closed due to the war in Ukraine. ALSO READ | Thousands of McDonald's employees suffer sexual harassment: Report The fast food giant employed 2,000 people in Kazakhstan. At present, the website still shows the logo of McDonald's and the company's menu. McDonald's, like several other Western brands, terminated its operations in Russia last year following Moscow's full-scale invasion of Ukraine. McDonald's, which had applied 62,000 workers in Russia, was bought by Russian businessman Alexander Govor and the restaurant was renamed "Delicious. Full Stop," news agency AFP reported on Thursday. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

McDonald's announces exit from Kazakhstan due to ‘supply restrictions’

The world's first vaccine for honeybees has been approved for use by the United States. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) granted a conditional licence to American biotech company Dalan Animal Health Inc for making vaccines to help protect honeybees from the American Foulbrood disease, a report by the Business Wire on Wednesday said. &nbsp;

The American Foulbrood disease is caused by the bacterium Paenibacillus larvae which can weaken and kill hives. The disease originated in the US but it has now spread across the world.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/bees-order-numbers-in-increasing-size-from-left-to-right-study-reveals-528769">Bees 'count' numbers in increasing size from left to right, study reveals</a>

Dalan Animal Health's vaccine for honeybees contains killed whole-cell Paenibacillus larvae bacteria. The vaccine will be administered by mixing it into queen feed which is consumed by the worker bees. The vaccine is incorporated into the royal jelly by the worker bees who then feed it to the queen.&nbsp;

The queen then ingests it and fragments of the vaccine are deposited in her ovaries, the Business Wire report said and pointed out that having been exposed to the vaccine, the developing larvae have immunity as they hatch.&nbsp;

Dr Anette Kleiser, the chief executive officer (CEO) of Dalan Animal Health said that the company's vaccine is a breakthrough in protecting honeybees. "We are committed to providing innovative solutions to protect our pollinators and promote sustainable agriculture. Global population growth and changing climates will increase the importance of honeybee pollination to secure our food supply," Dr Kleiser added.&nbsp;

The USDA has granted the conditional licence to Dalan Animal Health in the first instance for two years. The vaccine will be distributed on a limited basis to commercial beekeepers. The company anticipates having the vaccine available for purchase in the US this year, Wednesday's report said.&nbsp; 
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The world's first vaccine for honeybees has been approved for use by the United States. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) granted a conditional licence to American biotech company Dalan Animal Health Inc for making vaccines to help protect honeybees from the American Foulbrood disease, a report by the Business Wire on Wednesday said.

The world's first vaccine for honeybees has been approved for use by the United States. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) granted a conditional licence to American biotech company Dalan Animal Health Inc for making vaccines to help protect honeybees from the American Foulbrood disease, a report by the Business Wire on Wednesday said. The American Foulbrood disease is caused by the bacterium Paenibacillus larvae which can weaken and kill hives. The disease originated in the US but it has now spread across the world. ALSO READ | Bees 'count' numbers in increasing size from left to right, study reveals Dalan Animal Health's vaccine for honeybees contains killed whole-cell Paenibacillus larvae bacteria. The vaccine will be administered by mixing it into queen feed which is consumed by the worker bees. The vaccine is incorporated into the royal jelly by the worker bees who then feed it to the queen. The queen then ingests it and fragments of the vaccine are deposited in her ovaries, the Business Wire report said and pointed out that having been exposed to the vaccine, the developing larvae have immunity as they hatch. Dr Anette Kleiser, the chief executive officer (CEO) of Dalan Animal Health said that the company's vaccine is a breakthrough in protecting honeybees. "We are committed to providing innovative solutions to protect our pollinators and promote sustainable agriculture. Global population growth and changing climates will increase the importance of honeybee pollination to secure our food supply," Dr Kleiser added. The USDA has granted the conditional licence to Dalan Animal Health in the first instance for two years. The vaccine will be distributed on a limited basis to commercial beekeepers. The company anticipates having the vaccine available for purchase in the US this year, Wednesday's report said. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

World's first vaccine for honeybees approved for use by United States: Report

Tens of thousands of mourners gathered in Vatican City for the funeral of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/former-pope-benedict-xvi-passes-away-at-95-in-vatican-city-548306">former Pope Benedict XVI </a>on Thursday (January 5), led by his successor Pope Francis. Benedict, who in 2013 became the first pontiff in 600 years to resign, died last Saturday (December 31, 2022) at the age of 95 due to sickness.&nbsp;Benedict's coffin was buried on Thursday evening.&nbsp;Apart from the public, his funeral was also attended by red-clad cardinals and dignitaries from around the world, including German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and Italy's&nbsp;Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-francis-hails-beloved-benedict-xvi-in-new-years-day-address-548505">Pope Francis hails ‘beloved’ Benedict XVI in New Year’s Day address</a>

This is the first time that the funeral proceedings of a former pontiff were led by a sitting Pope, Francis.&nbsp;

Pope Francis arrived at the St Peter's Basilica seated in a wheelchair. The pontiff, troubled by a bad knee, sat looking down at Benedict's coffin, news agency Reuters reported. In his homily read, Pope Francis used over a dozen biblical references and&nbsp;Church writings where he appeared to compare Benedict to Jesus before the casket was sealed and entombed in the basilica grotto.&nbsp; 
 
Heads of state and royalty, clergy from around the world and thousands of regular people flocked to the subdued ceremony, despite Benedict’s request for simplicity and official efforts to keep the first funeral for a pope emeritus in modern times low-key.&nbsp;

The mourners from the public also included many Germans, paying tributes to Benedict&nbsp;who was Germany's first pope in 1,000 years.&nbsp;

"We owe him so much. We want to show that we stand behind him," Benedikt Rothweiler, a resident of Germany's Aachen, told AFP on Thursday. "We actually know too little about Benedict. He always accepted everything the way God wants it. This is a good example for us humans," Rothweiler added.&nbsp;

Benedict's eight years as Pope (from 2005-2013)&nbsp;were marked by crises, from in-fighting within the Vatican to the global scandal of clerical sex abuse and its cover-up. While many people have praised Benedict since he died on December 31 last year, some, including victims of clergy sexual abuse, criticised and accused him of seeking to protect the Church at all costs.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Tens of thousands of mourners gathered in Vatican City for the funeral of former Pope Benedict XVI on Thursday (January 5), led by his successor Pope Francis. Benedict, who in 2013 became the first pontiff in 600 years to resign, died last Saturday (December 31, 2022) at the age of 95 due to sickness.

Tens of thousands of mourners gathered in Vatican City for the funeral of former Pope Benedict XVI on Thursday (January 5), led by his successor Pope Francis. Benedict, who in 2013 became the first pontiff in 600 years to resign, died last Saturday (December 31, 2022) at the age of 95 due to sickness. Benedict's coffin was buried on Thursday evening. Apart from the public, his funeral was also attended by red-clad cardinals and dignitaries from around the world, including German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and Italy's Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. ALSO READ | Pope Francis hails ‘beloved’ Benedict XVI in New Year’s Day address This is the first time that the funeral proceedings of a former pontiff were led by a sitting Pope, Francis. Pope Francis arrived at the St Peter's Basilica seated in a wheelchair. The pontiff, troubled by a bad knee, sat looking down at Benedict's coffin, news agency Reuters reported. In his homily read, Pope Francis used over a dozen biblical references and Church writings where he appeared to compare Benedict to Jesus before the casket was sealed and entombed in the basilica grotto. Heads of state and royalty, clergy from around the world and thousands of regular people flocked to the subdued ceremony, despite Benedict’s request for simplicity and official efforts to keep the first funeral for a pope emeritus in modern times low-key. The mourners from the public also included many Germans, paying tributes to Benedict who was Germany's first pope in 1,000 years. "We owe him so much. We want to show that we stand behind him," Benedikt Rothweiler, a resident of Germany's Aachen, told AFP on Thursday. "We actually know too little about Benedict. He always accepted everything the way God wants it. This is a good example for us humans," Rothweiler added. Benedict's eight years as Pope (from 2005-2013) were marked by crises, from in-fighting within the Vatican to the global scandal of clerical sex abuse and its cover-up. While many people have praised Benedict since he died on December 31 last year, some, including victims of clergy sexual abuse, criticised and accused him of seeking to protect the Church at all costs. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Former Pope Benedict XVI laid to rest in solemn burial at Vatican, Pope Francis leads mass

The Spanish police said on Thursday they arrested 43 people- suspected to be part of a criminal group that has exploited undocumented migrant workers in the agricultural sector. Most of these migrant workers are from Morocco.&nbsp;

Issuing a statement, the police said officers made these arrests in the southern province of Malaga, adding the group charged migrant workers up to $3,200 (3,000 euros) for fake work contracts to allow them to regularise their status, news agency AFP reported.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-2022-more-than-45000-migrants-cross-english-channel-to-reach-uk-from-europe-548536">In 2022, more than 45,000 migrants crossed English Channel to reach UK from Europe</a>

The police said some of these workers were living in inhumane conditions in houses that belonged to the criminal group. The police added at least seven agricultural companies were believed to have taken part in the scheme dedicated to the labour exploitation of Moroccan nationals.&nbsp;

For years, Spain has been a key getaway into Europe for illegal migration from Africa and about 800,000 Moroccans legally live in Spain.&nbsp;

According to figures issued by the interior ministry on Tuesday, as many as 31,219 people entered Spain without permission last year, compared to 41,945 in 2021. The ministry credited "cooperation with countries of origin and transit" of migrants, and the reinforcement of the fight "against mafias that traffic people" for the fall in illegal migrations.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-blow-to-spains-meat-industry-man-accused-of-sexual-advances-acquitted-report-545671"> In blow to Spain's meat industry, man accused of sexual advances acquitted: Report</a>

On December 30 last year, the bodies of 13 Moroccans were recovered after their boat sank off the country's southern coast while attempting to reach the Canary Islands in Spain. The boat, which had 45 passengers on board, was attempting to reach the Canary Islands' main city of Las Palmas when it hit a rock and sank 10 minutes after embarking near Mirleft town, AFP reported citing local media. About 24 passengers were rescued from the water. The deceased included one woman, and eight passengers remained unaccounted for.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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The Spanish police said on Thursday they arrested 43 people- suspected to be part of a criminal group that has exploited undocumented migrant workers in the agricultural sector.

The Spanish police said on Thursday they arrested 43 people- suspected to be part of a criminal group that has exploited undocumented migrant workers in the agricultural sector. Most of these migrant workers are from Morocco. Issuing a statement, the police said officers made these arrests in the southern province of Malaga, adding the group charged migrant workers up to $3,200 (3,000 euros) for fake work contracts to allow them to regularise their status, news agency AFP reported. ALSO READ | In 2022, more than 45,000 migrants crossed English Channel to reach UK from Europe The police said some of these workers were living in inhumane conditions in houses that belonged to the criminal group. The police added at least seven agricultural companies were believed to have taken part in the scheme dedicated to the labour exploitation of Moroccan nationals. For years, Spain has been a key getaway into Europe for illegal migration from Africa and about 800,000 Moroccans legally live in Spain. According to figures issued by the interior ministry on Tuesday, as many as 31,219 people entered Spain without permission last year, compared to 41,945 in 2021. The ministry credited "cooperation with countries of origin and transit" of migrants, and the reinforcement of the fight "against mafias that traffic people" for the fall in illegal migrations. ALSO READ | In blow to Spain's meat industry, man accused of sexual advances acquitted: Report On December 30 last year, the bodies of 13 Moroccans were recovered after their boat sank off the country's southern coast while attempting to reach the Canary Islands in Spain. The boat, which had 45 passengers on board, was attempting to reach the Canary Islands' main city of Las Palmas when it hit a rock and sank 10 minutes after embarking near Mirleft town, AFP reported citing local media. About 24 passengers were rescued from the water. The deceased included one woman, and eight passengers remained unaccounted for. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Spain: 43 arrested for exploiting undocumented migrant workers

China on Thursday (January 5) urged the World Health Organization (WHO) to take a ''just position'' on Covid after the United Nations health agency criticised Beijing's virus data. The Chinese government said that it maintained close cooperation with the WHO and that it always shared relevant information and data with the global community with an open and transparent attitude, news agency AFP reported.&nbsp;

Addressing a press conference, foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said on Thursday, "We... hope the WHO secretariat will uphold a scientific, objective and just position, and make efforts to play a positive role for the world's response to the pandemic challenge."

ALSO READ |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-beijings-covid-spike-chinas-healthcare-system-worsens-forces-people-to-take-risks-in-black-market-549628">&nbsp;China's healthcare system at its worst amid Covid spike; forces people to take risks in black market</a>

Ning said that as per an incomplete tally, there had been more than 60 technical exchanges between the two sides (China and WHO) since the virus was first reported, on various topics.&nbsp;

The above remarks come a day after the WHO said it was without complete Covid-related data from China. WHO emergencies director Michael Ryan said on Wednesday that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-asks-china-to-provide-a-more-realistic-picture-of-covid-19-situation-549382">the current figures being published from China</a> "under-represent the true impact of the disease in terms of hospital admissions, in terms of ICU admissions, and particularly in terms of deaths."

Since December last year, China has recorded only 22 deaths due to Covid and the government has narrowed the definition of virus deaths. The criterion says that only those Covid patients who directly died of respiratory failure caused by the virus would be counted under Covid death statistics.

On Wednesday, Michael Ryan said this criterion is very narrow.&nbsp;

In recent times, China, which abruptly decided to lift strict Covid restrictions, has seen an unprecedented spike in cases along with an overburdened health infrastructure, a shortage of life-saving medicines and a low rate of full vaccination among the elderly.&nbsp;

More and more countries have started imposing restrictions on Chinese travellers- a move severely criticised by Beijing. On Thursday, Germany became the latest country to ask for a negative Covid test for arrivals from China.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
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China on Thursday (January 5) urged the World Health Organization (WHO) to take a ''just position'' on Covid after the United Nations health agency criticised Beijing's virus data.

China on Thursday (January 5) urged the World Health Organization (WHO) to take a ''just position'' on Covid after the United Nations health agency criticised Beijing's virus data. The Chinese government said that it maintained close cooperation with the WHO and that it always shared relevant information and data with the global community with an open and transparent attitude, news agency AFP reported. Addressing a press conference, foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said on Thursday, "We... hope the WHO secretariat will uphold a scientific, objective and just position, and make efforts to play a positive role for the world's response to the pandemic challenge." ALSO READ | China's healthcare system at its worst amid Covid spike; forces people to take risks in black market Ning said that as per an incomplete tally, there had been more than 60 technical exchanges between the two sides (China and WHO) since the virus was first reported, on various topics. The above remarks come a day after the WHO said it was without complete Covid-related data from China. WHO emergencies director Michael Ryan said on Wednesday that the current figures being published from China "under-represent the true impact of the disease in terms of hospital admissions, in terms of ICU admissions, and particularly in terms of deaths." Since December last year, China has recorded only 22 deaths due to Covid and the government has narrowed the definition of virus deaths. The criterion says that only those Covid patients who directly died of respiratory failure caused by the virus would be counted under Covid death statistics. On Wednesday, Michael Ryan said this criterion is very narrow. In recent times, China, which abruptly decided to lift strict Covid restrictions, has seen an unprecedented spike in cases along with an overburdened health infrastructure, a shortage of life-saving medicines and a low rate of full vaccination among the elderly. More and more countries have started imposing restrictions on Chinese travellers- a move severely criticised by Beijing. On Thursday, Germany became the latest country to ask for a negative Covid test for arrivals from China. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Take 'just position' on Covid: China urges WHO after virus data criticism

A key component of Taiwan's most advanced anti-ship missile has been sent to China, causing calls for greater safeguards in the former nation. A report by the South China Morning Post on Wednesday (January 4) said that a theodolite- which is an optical instrument- from the Hsiung-Feng III anti-ship missile was sent to China's Shandong province for repair.&nbsp;

Issuing a statement on Wednesday, the National Chung-Shan Institute of Science and Technology (NCSIST)- a Taiwanese-state-owned corporation- said that the optical instrument was bought from Swiss company Leica last year and it was sent back to the manufacturer for repair&nbsp;recently.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-incursions-into-taiwan-air-defence-zone-almost-doubled-in-2022-548723">China’s incursions into Taiwan air defence zone almost doubled in 2022</a>

The NCSIST said the unit's memory cards were removed before sending it back and it asked the agent to send the part to Switzerland, the South China Morning Post report said.&nbsp;

However, before the repaired optical instrument was returned, it was discovered the unit was sent to Taiwan from an airport in the Shandong province.&nbsp;

According to the NCSIST, Leica said its maintenance centre for Asia was in Qingdao city (in Shandong province) and hence the theodolite had been sent for repair.&nbsp;

The NCSIST added on Wednesday that it quickly ran a security check on the device and ensured that no malware was installed. The Taiwanese agency also pointed out it was discussing measures to ensure that similar devices would not be sent to China for repairs in future for national security reasons, the report said.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Dr Su Tzu-yun from Taiwan's Institute of Defence Security Research told BBC on Wednesday that optical instruments were not direct missile components but the Taiwanese government had to be more careful. Dr Tzu-yun highlighted that the government must be "more strict and careful" in its contract management.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-set-to-extend-mandatory-military-service-to-one-year-after-beijings-christmas-strike-drills-546884">Taiwan extends mandatory military service to one year after Beijing's Christmas 'strike drills'</a>

This news comes just days after news agency AFP reported that China's air incursions into Taiwan's air defence zone nearly doubled in 2022. China sent more than 1,700 warplanes into Taiwan's air defence identification zone (ADIZ) in 2022, compared to 960 air incursions in 2021 and 380 in 2020.&nbsp;

China has claimed Taiwan as its own and has been ramping up pressure in the democratic island to assert its sovereignty. On Thursday, former NATO general secretary Anders Fogh Rasmussen urged democratic countries to show China "severe economic consequences" if it attacks Taiwan.&nbsp;

"Any attempt by China to change the status quo in Taiwan by force should spark an equally unified response and we must make this clear to China now," Rasmussen told reporters in a news conference in Taipei, news agency Reuters reported.&nbsp;

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A key component of Taiwan's most advanced anti-ship missile has been sent to China, causing calls for greater safeguards in the former nation. A report by the South China Morning Post on Wednesday (January 4) said that a theodolite- which is an optical instrument- from the Hsiung-Feng III anti-ship missile was sent to China's Shandong province for repair.

A key component of Taiwan's most advanced anti-ship missile has been sent to China, causing calls for greater safeguards in the former nation. A report by the South China Morning Post on Wednesday (January 4) said that a theodolite- which is an optical instrument- from the Hsiung-Feng III anti-ship missile was sent to China's Shandong province for repair. Issuing a statement on Wednesday, the National Chung-Shan Institute of Science and Technology (NCSIST)- a Taiwanese-state-owned corporation- said that the optical instrument was bought from Swiss company Leica last year and it was sent back to the manufacturer for repair recently. ALSO READ | China’s incursions into Taiwan air defence zone almost doubled in 2022 The NCSIST said the unit's memory cards were removed before sending it back and it asked the agent to send the part to Switzerland, the South China Morning Post report said. However, before the repaired optical instrument was returned, it was discovered the unit was sent to Taiwan from an airport in the Shandong province. According to the NCSIST, Leica said its maintenance centre for Asia was in Qingdao city (in Shandong province) and hence the theodolite had been sent for repair. The NCSIST added on Wednesday that it quickly ran a security check on the device and ensured that no malware was installed. The Taiwanese agency also pointed out it was discussing measures to ensure that similar devices would not be sent to China for repairs in future for national security reasons, the report said. Meanwhile, Dr Su Tzu-yun from Taiwan's Institute of Defence Security Research told BBC on Wednesday that optical instruments were not direct missile components but the Taiwanese government had to be more careful. Dr Tzu-yun highlighted that the government must be "more strict and careful" in its contract management. ALSO READ | Taiwan extends mandatory military service to one year after Beijing's Christmas 'strike drills' This news comes just days after news agency AFP reported that China's air incursions into Taiwan's air defence zone nearly doubled in 2022. China sent more than 1,700 warplanes into Taiwan's air defence identification zone (ADIZ) in 2022, compared to 960 air incursions in 2021 and 380 in 2020. China has claimed Taiwan as its own and has been ramping up pressure in the democratic island to assert its sovereignty. On Thursday, former NATO general secretary Anders Fogh Rasmussen urged democratic countries to show China "severe economic consequences" if it attacks Taiwan. "Any attempt by China to change the status quo in Taiwan by force should spark an equally unified response and we must make this clear to China now," Rasmussen told reporters in a news conference in Taipei, news agency Reuters reported. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Key component of Taiwan's anti-ship missile sent to China for repair: Report

German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock said on Wednesday (January 4) that the current Covid wave from China must be taken "very very" seriously. Addressing a press conference, Baerbock said, “Looking at Covid and China, these too are issues we briefly discussed yesterday. We have very similar views. Our goal is a common European solution. We must take the current Covid wave from China very, very seriously."

Baerbock said since China hardly releases any details, European cooperation is very crucial and collaboration with the World Health Organisation (WHO) is equally important for full transparency on what the situation in China is like right now,&nbsp;news agency Reuters reported.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Since the onset of the pandemic, Germany has recorded more than 37.4 million Covid cases and 161,714 deaths, according to WHO data.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/qatar-joins-the-list-of-countries-requiring-covid-negative-test-from-travellers-from-china-548761">Qatar joins the list of countries requiring Covid negative test from travellers from China</a>

Currently, the German government has not imposed any restrictions on travellers arriving from China despite other European Countries such as France, Italy and the United Kingdom (UK) doing so.&nbsp;

In France, travellers from China have to provide a negative PCR or antigen test undertaken less than 48 hours before departure. In Italy, the government has ordered Covid antigen swabs and virus sequencing for such travellers.

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;European Union countries enforce traveller Covid curbs amid deteriorating situation

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On the other hand, from January 5, all travellers to the UK from China must submit a negative test before boarding. The government also said it will test a sample of arrivals to monitor new variants.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-asks-china-to-provide-a-more-realistic-picture-of-covid-19-situation-549382">WHO asks China to provide a 'more realistic picture' of Covid-19 situation</a>

Meanwhile, the Chinese government has condemned ''discriminatory practices'' as more and more countries are imposing restrictions on Chinese travellers.&nbsp;

“(Such measures) should not be used as an opportunity to engage in political manipulation, discriminatory practices or affect normal exchanges and cooperation between people,” Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said during a press conference on Wednesday and pointed out that virus-related curbs should be scientific and appropriate, Reuters also reported.&nbsp;

(With agency inputs)

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German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock said on Wednesday (January 4) that the current Covid wave from China must be taken "very very" seriously. Addressing a press conference, Baerbock said, “Looking at Covid and China, these too are issues we briefly discussed yesterday.

German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock said on Wednesday (January 4) that the current Covid wave from China must be taken "very very" seriously. Addressing a press conference, Baerbock said, “Looking at Covid and China, these too are issues we briefly discussed yesterday. We have very similar views. Our goal is a common European solution. We must take the current Covid wave from China very, very seriously." Baerbock said since China hardly releases any details, European cooperation is very crucial and collaboration with the World Health Organisation (WHO) is equally important for full transparency on what the situation in China is like right now, news agency Reuters reported. Since the onset of the pandemic, Germany has recorded more than 37.4 million Covid cases and 161,714 deaths, according to WHO data. ALSO READ | Qatar joins the list of countries requiring Covid negative test from travellers from China Currently, the German government has not imposed any restrictions on travellers arriving from China despite other European Countries such as France, Italy and the United Kingdom (UK) doing so. In France, travellers from China have to provide a negative PCR or antigen test undertaken less than 48 hours before departure. In Italy, the government has ordered Covid antigen swabs and virus sequencing for such travellers. ALSO WATCH | European Union countries enforce traveller Covid curbs amid deteriorating situation × On the other hand, from January 5, all travellers to the UK from China must submit a negative test before boarding. The government also said it will test a sample of arrivals to monitor new variants. ALSO READ | WHO asks China to provide a 'more realistic picture' of Covid-19 situation Meanwhile, the Chinese government has condemned ''discriminatory practices'' as more and more countries are imposing restrictions on Chinese travellers. “(Such measures) should not be used as an opportunity to engage in political manipulation, discriminatory practices or affect normal exchanges and cooperation between people,” Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said during a press conference on Wednesday and pointed out that virus-related curbs should be scientific and appropriate, Reuters also reported. (With agency inputs) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Current Covid wave from China must be taken 'very very' seriously: Germany

In the latest news from around the world, the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has said Omicron offshoot XBB.1.5 may cause a new Covid spike in the country. The World Health Organization (WHO) has asked China to provide a more realistic picture of the pandemic situation as officials from the United Nations health agency met a team of Chinese scientists to verify the accuracy of Beijing's virus data. In the United Kingdom (UK), Prime Minister Rishi Sunak is set to announce his plans that all students will have to study mathematics till the age of 18.&nbsp;

Click on the headlines to read more.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/omicron-offshoot-to-xbb15-may-cause-new-covid-spike-in-the-us-confirms-cdc-549368">Omicron offshoot XBB.1.5 may cause new Covid spike in the US, confirms CDC</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/01/04/323141-257808-coronavirus-image.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

On Friday, the Covid-19 mutant dashboard from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) showed a new contender that would soon take the lead: XBB.1.5. According to the CDC, XBB.1.5 increased from roughly 4% to 41% of new infections during the month of December 2022, more than doubling its portion of the Covid-19 pie each week for the previous four.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-asks-china-to-provide-a-more-realistic-picture-of-covid-19-situation-549382">WHO asks China to provide a 'more realistic picture' of Covid-19 situation</a>

&nbsp;

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/01/04/323151-00033676c6.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

The World Health Organisation (WHO) officials met with a team of Chinese scientists on Tuesday in order to verify the accuracy of China’s Covid-19 data and the latest growth in infections. The Communist Party of China’s mouthpiece newspaper claimed on Wednesday that the country is pushing for a “final victory” over the pandemic but the numbers are telling a completely different story.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rishi-sunak-to-call-for-mandatory-maths-education-till-age-18-549369">UK PM Rishi Sunak to unveil plan for mandatory teaching of maths to students till the age of 18</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/12/31/322299-untitled-design-2022-12-31t173105106.png?imwidth=1920" />

In a 'personal' pitch, Rishi Sunak, the United Kingdom Prime Minister,&nbsp;is set to lay out his plans to ensure that all pupils in England study Mathematics in "one form or the other" till the age of 18.

 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-musk-fires-janitors-twitter-employees-bring-own-toilet-paper-to-office-549417">Twitter employees bring own toilet paper to office after Musk fires janitors</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/11/03/308095-wion-images-60.png?imwidth=1920" />

Twitter has stopped paying millions of dollars in rent and services. Janitorial and security services were cut, forcing employees to bring their toilet paper to the office.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-york-subway-station-gunman-pleads-guilty-to-terrorism-charges-549394">New York subway station gunman pleads guilty to terrorism charges</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/01/04/323157-ny.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

Frank James, 63, who appeared at a district court in Brooklyn, was charged with 10 counts of terrorism&nbsp;and one firearms count.&nbsp;He had initially pleaded not guilty but later changed his plea before appearing in the court.

 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-why-has-israeli-minister-ben-gvirs-visit-to-al-aqsa-mosque-sparked-outrage-549442">Explained: Why has Israeli minister Ben-Gvir’s visit to Al-Aqsa mosque sparked outrage?</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/01/04/323191-wion-images-18.png?imwidth=1920" />

Israel’s National Security Minister, Itamar Ben-Gvir, on Tuesday, visited the disputed holy site in Jerusalem, Al-Aqsa mosque, triggering widespread condemnation from several countries across the Arab world with the move being seen as a “deliberate provocation” by the Palestinians.&nbsp;

 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/tehreek-e-taliban-pakistan-threatens-pmln-ppp-coalition-govt-for-going-after-leadership-549416">TTP threaten&nbsp;harm to top Pakistani leadership for waging war against it to please US</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/01/04/323178-sharif.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

The proscribed terrorist outfit, Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), has threatened to eliminate the ministers of the ruling coalition government— Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif’s Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari led Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) — if the latter continues to take tough measures against the militants “to please America".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/christian-graves-vandalised-in-jerusalem-cemetery-549451">Christian graves vandalised in Jerusalem cemetery</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/01/04/323201-untitled-design-31.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

Security camera footage from January 1, 2023 reportedly showed two individuals in jewish attire vandalising the revered cemetery located on the edge of the old city of Jerusalem.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-heartwarming-world-cup-champion-lionel-messi-receives-guard-of-honour-from-psg-teammates-549418">WATCH: Heartwarming! World Cup champion Lionel Messi receives guard of honour from PSG teammates</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/01/04/323173-watch-heartwarming-wc-champion-messi-receives-guard-of-honour-from-psg-mates.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

After a much-deserved time-off post the historic FIFA World Cup triumph, Lionel Messi has now joined his Paris Saint Germain (PSG) team. Ahead of his training, the 35-year-old received a guard of honour from his teammates&nbsp;and support staff.&nbsp;

 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-elvis-to-screen-for-free-in-select-us-cities-on-88th-anniversary-of-elvis-presleys-birth-549452">'Elvis' to screen for free in select US cities on 88th anniversary of Elvis Presley's birth</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/12/12/317644-untitled-design-2022-12-12t202507311.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

Acclaimed Elvis Presley biopic 'Elvis' will screen for free in 10 US cities on the birthday of the King of Rock and Roll (January 8). The studio behind the project, Warner Bros, is teaming up with the late singer's estate Graceland.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

&nbsp;

In the latest news from around the world, the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has said Omicron offshoot XBB.1.5 may cause a new Covid spike in the country.

In the latest news from around the world, the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has said Omicron offshoot XBB.1.5 may cause a new Covid spike in the country. The World Health Organization (WHO) has asked China to provide a more realistic picture of the pandemic situation as officials from the United Nations health agency met a team of Chinese scientists to verify the accuracy of Beijing's virus data. In the United Kingdom (UK), Prime Minister Rishi Sunak is set to announce his plans that all students will have to study mathematics till the age of 18. Click on the headlines to read more. Omicron offshoot XBB.1.5 may cause new Covid spike in the US, confirms CDC On Friday, the Covid-19 mutant dashboard from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) showed a new contender that would soon take the lead: XBB.1.5. According to the CDC, XBB.1.5 increased from roughly 4% to 41% of new infections during the month of December 2022, more than doubling its portion of the Covid-19 pie each week for the previous four. WHO asks China to provide a 'more realistic picture' of Covid-19 situation The World Health Organisation (WHO) officials met with a team of Chinese scientists on Tuesday in order to verify the accuracy of China’s Covid-19 data and the latest growth in infections. The Communist Party of China’s mouthpiece newspaper claimed on Wednesday that the country is pushing for a “final victory” over the pandemic but the numbers are telling a completely different story. UK PM Rishi Sunak to unveil plan for mandatory teaching of maths to students till the age of 18 In a 'personal' pitch, Rishi Sunak, the United Kingdom Prime Minister, is set to lay out his plans to ensure that all pupils in England study Mathematics in "one form or the other" till the age of 18. Twitter employees bring own toilet paper to office after Musk fires janitors Twitter has stopped paying millions of dollars in rent and services. Janitorial and security services were cut, forcing employees to bring their toilet paper to the office. New York subway station gunman pleads guilty to terrorism charges Frank James, 63, who appeared at a district court in Brooklyn, was charged with 10 counts of terrorism and one firearms count. He had initially pleaded not guilty but later changed his plea before appearing in the court. Explained: Why has Israeli minister Ben-Gvir’s visit to Al-Aqsa mosque sparked outrage? Israel’s National Security Minister, Itamar Ben-Gvir, on Tuesday, visited the disputed holy site in Jerusalem, Al-Aqsa mosque, triggering widespread condemnation from several countries across the Arab world with the move being seen as a “deliberate provocation” by the Palestinians. TTP threaten harm to top Pakistani leadership for waging war against it to please US The proscribed terrorist outfit, Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), has threatened to eliminate the ministers of the ruling coalition government— Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif’s Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari led Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) — if the latter continues to take tough measures against the militants “to please America". Christian graves vandalised in Jerusalem cemetery Security camera footage from January 1, 2023 reportedly showed two individuals in jewish attire vandalising the revered cemetery located on the edge of the old city of Jerusalem. WATCH: Heartwarming! World Cup champion Lionel Messi receives guard of honour from PSG teammates After a much-deserved time-off post the historic FIFA World Cup triumph, Lionel Messi has now joined his Paris Saint Germain (PSG) team. Ahead of his training, the 35-year-old received a guard of honour from his teammates and support staff. 'Elvis' to screen for free in select US cities on 88th anniversary of Elvis Presley's birth Acclaimed Elvis Presley biopic 'Elvis' will screen for free in 10 US cities on the birthday of the King of Rock and Roll (January 8). The studio behind the project, Warner Bros, is teaming up with the late singer's estate Graceland.

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Pakistan's Interior Minister Rana Sanaullah said on Tuesday (January 3) that his government will not hold talks with the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) or any other terrorist organisation. This comes as Pakistan has seen a series of deadly attacks by the TTP in recent times after the group ended a ceasefire with Islamabad. &nbsp;

According to a report by Geo News, Sanaullah said the above decision was taken in a meeting of the National Security Committee (NSC). Sanaullah said that the Pakistani government had decided to share evidence with the Taliban administration (in Afghanistan) as terrorists based in Afghanistan were involved in terror activities in Pakistan.&nbsp;

He said that Afghanistan promised that its territory would not be used against any other country, and the Taliban administration would be asked to fulfil that promise, the report said.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-says-will-target-ttp-on-afghan-soil-taliban-says-things-can-be-resolved-by-dialogue-548657">Pakistan says will target TTP on Afghan soil, Taliban say would not let anyone attack Islamic Emirate</a>

During the NSC meeting, army chief General Asim Munir categorically said that mixed messages should not be given on the issue of negotiations with terrorists, the narrative should be clear that there will be no negotiations with terrorists. &nbsp;

The Pakistani Interior Minister also said that talks will be held with the Taliban administration and pointed out that no Pakistani territory is under the control of terrorists.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;Pakistan-Taliban Clash: Taliban rubbishes Pak's claims of TTP hideouts in Afghanistan

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Last week, Rana Sanaullah said that the government would target TTP hideouts in Afghanistan. "When these problems arise, we first ask Afghanistan, our Islamic brother nation, to eliminate these hideouts and hand over these individuals to us, but if that doesn`t happen, Islamabad will target these hideouts inside Afghanistan," Sanaullah told a news channel.&nbsp;

The Taliban sharply reacted to the Pakistani minister's remark by asking Islamabad to avoid baseless talks and provocative ideas.&nbsp;

"The Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan wants peaceful relations with all its neighbouring countries, including Pakistan and believes in all the ways that can lead to achieving this goal," Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid said in a statement which was put out on Twitter. Mujahid said it was regrettable that Pakistan's officials were making false statements about Kabul. The spokesperson added that the Taliban was trying its best not to use the territory of Afghanistan against Pakistan or any other country. 
&nbsp;

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Pakistan's Interior Minister Rana Sanaullah said on Tuesday (January 3) that his government will not hold talks with the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) or any other terrorist organisation.

Pakistan's Interior Minister Rana Sanaullah said on Tuesday (January 3) that his government will not hold talks with the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) or any other terrorist organisation. This comes as Pakistan has seen a series of deadly attacks by the TTP in recent times after the group ended a ceasefire with Islamabad. According to a report by Geo News, Sanaullah said the above decision was taken in a meeting of the National Security Committee (NSC). Sanaullah said that the Pakistani government had decided to share evidence with the Taliban administration (in Afghanistan) as terrorists based in Afghanistan were involved in terror activities in Pakistan. He said that Afghanistan promised that its territory would not be used against any other country, and the Taliban administration would be asked to fulfil that promise, the report said. ALSO READ | Pakistan says will target TTP on Afghan soil, Taliban say would not let anyone attack Islamic Emirate During the NSC meeting, army chief General Asim Munir categorically said that mixed messages should not be given on the issue of negotiations with terrorists, the narrative should be clear that there will be no negotiations with terrorists. The Pakistani Interior Minister also said that talks will be held with the Taliban administration and pointed out that no Pakistani territory is under the control of terrorists. ALSO WATCH | Pakistan-Taliban Clash: Taliban rubbishes Pak's claims of TTP hideouts in Afghanistan × Last week, Rana Sanaullah said that the government would target TTP hideouts in Afghanistan. "When these problems arise, we first ask Afghanistan, our Islamic brother nation, to eliminate these hideouts and hand over these individuals to us, but if that doesn`t happen, Islamabad will target these hideouts inside Afghanistan," Sanaullah told a news channel. The Taliban sharply reacted to the Pakistani minister's remark by asking Islamabad to avoid baseless talks and provocative ideas. "The Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan wants peaceful relations with all its neighbouring countries, including Pakistan and believes in all the ways that can lead to achieving this goal," Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid said in a statement which was put out on Twitter. Mujahid said it was regrettable that Pakistan's officials were making false statements about Kabul. The spokesperson added that the Taliban was trying its best not to use the territory of Afghanistan against Pakistan or any other country. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Pakistan to not hold talks with TTP or any other terrorist group, says minister: Report

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