On December 29, South Korea witnessed its worst aviation disaster in decades when a Jeju Air Flight&nbsp;7C2216 crashed at the Muan International Airport. The crash killed 179 of the 181 people on board.&nbsp;
The direct cause of the crash was the malfunction of the landing gear, but the specific reason for this failure remained under further investigation.
<h2>Here's a look at the last moments of the flight:</h2>
Jeju Air flight reports bird strike: A report by the news agency AFP on Thursday (Jan 2) said that on December 29 at around 8.54 am local time, the flight heading from Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi Airport received permission to land in Muan.
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At 8.57 am, air traffic control warned the pilot about bird activity in the area. Two minutes later, the pilot made a desperate Mayday call, declaring "bird strike, bird strike."
Pilot abandons landing attempt: Following the bird strike, the pilot of flight 7C2216 abandoned a landing attempt.&nbsp;
Air traffic control then proposed the pilot land in the opposite direction, which the pilot accepted, the report by AFP said.
At 9.02 am, the plane approached for a second landing attempt, seemingly without undercarriage. The aircraft struck the ground around 900 to 1,200 metres along the runway, which was 2,800 metres long.
Landing gear malfunctions: As an aircraft approaches for landing, the landing gear comes down way before the plane touches the ground.
However, in the case of flight 7C2216, the landing gear malfunctioned, which meant the pilot had to belly land.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tears-empty-desks-office-mourns-death-of-5-colleagues-in-s-korea-plane-crash-8581094" rel="dofollow">South Korea plane crash- Tears, empty desks: Office mourns death of five colleagues in Jeju Air accident</a>
Citing South Korean authorities, AFP reported that the landing gear might have been damaged due to the bird strike.
Plane slams into concrete barrier: At 9.03 am on December 29, the aircraft overran the runway and skidded into a large embankment made of dirt and concrete, and housing an instrument guidance system known as a localiser.
Video footage showed the plane smashing into the installation, which was located 250 metres past the end of the tarmac.
Questions have arisen over why the localiser was installed at the end of the runway, which experts pointed out posed danger in case an aircraft overran.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World: The direct cause of the crash was the malfunction of the landing gear, but the specific reason for this failure remained under further investigation.

On December 29, South Korea witnessed its worst aviation disaster in decades when a Jeju Air Flight 7C2216 crashed at the Muan International Airport. The crash killed 179 of the 181 people on board. The direct cause of the crash was the malfunction of the landing gear, but the specific reason for this failure remained under further investigation. Here's a look at the last moments of the flight: Jeju Air flight reports bird strike: A report by the news agency AFP on Thursday (Jan 2) said that on December 29 at around 8.54 am local time, the flight heading from Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi Airport received permission to land in Muan. Also read | Jeju Air CEO banned from leaving South Korea after fatal crash, say police At 8.57 am, air traffic control warned the pilot about bird activity in the area. Two minutes later, the pilot made a desperate Mayday call, declaring "bird strike, bird strike." Pilot abandons landing attempt: Following the bird strike, the pilot of flight 7C2216 abandoned a landing attempt. Air traffic control then proposed the pilot land in the opposite direction, which the pilot accepted, the report by AFP said. At 9.02 am, the plane approached for a second landing attempt, seemingly without undercarriage. The aircraft struck the ground around 900 to 1,200 metres along the runway, which was 2,800 metres long. Landing gear malfunctions: As an aircraft approaches for landing, the landing gear comes down way before the plane touches the ground. However, in the case of flight 7C2216, the landing gear malfunctioned, which meant the pilot had to belly land. Also read | South Korea plane crash- Tears, empty desks: Office mourns death of five colleagues in Jeju Air accident Citing South Korean authorities, AFP reported that the landing gear might have been damaged due to the bird strike. Plane slams into concrete barrier: At 9.03 am on December 29, the aircraft overran the runway and skidded into a large embankment made of dirt and concrete, and housing an instrument guidance system known as a localiser. Video footage showed the plane smashing into the installation, which was located 250 metres past the end of the tarmac. Questions have arisen over why the localiser was installed at the end of the runway, which experts pointed out posed danger in case an aircraft overran. (With inputs from agencies)

South Korea plane crash: A look at the last moments of the Jeju Air flight that killed 179

A special court in the Indian city of Mumbai on Wednesday (Jan 1) sentenced eight Pakistani nationals to 20 years of rigorous imprisonment in a case of the seizure of over 200 kilogrammes of drugs valued at nearly $816,249 (Rs 7 crore).
According to a report by the news agency PTI, the case dates back to 2015, when the Indian Coast Guard apprehended the accused persons from a boat carrying the aforementioned massive quantity of drugs off the Gujarat coast.&nbsp;
<h2>Drug seized was heroin</h2>
There were 11 drums on the boat with 20 plastic pouches containing a wheatish brown colour powder. Upon testing, it was found the power was heroin.
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The accused eight Pakistani nationals were also found in possession of three satellite phones and GPS navigation charts, among other electronic devices.
<h2>Jail term handed under NDPS Act</h2>
The PTI report said that the Special Judge for Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act cases, Shashikant Bangar, convicted the eight Pakistani nationals for offences committed under the anti-drug law.
Under the NDPS Act, the convicts were handed over a 20-year jail term. The court also imposed a fine of $2,332 on each of them.
Special Public Prosecutor Sumesh Punjwani had sought maximum punishment for the convicts, saying it could be a lesson for other drug traffickers.
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The defence counsel, however, submitted that a lenient view be taken.
After hearing both sides, the court refused to show leniency and sentenced the accused persons to maximum punishment.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

India News, South Asia, Pakistan: The case dates back to 2015, when the Indian Coast Guard seized over 200 kg of drugs off the Gujarat coast. The drugs were valued at nearly $816,249 (Rs 7 crore).

A special court in the Indian city of Mumbai on Wednesday (Jan 1) sentenced eight Pakistani nationals to 20 years of rigorous imprisonment in a case of the seizure of over 200 kilogrammes of drugs valued at nearly $816,249 (Rs 7 crore). According to a report by the news agency PTI, the case dates back to 2015, when the Indian Coast Guard apprehended the accused persons from a boat carrying the aforementioned massive quantity of drugs off the Gujarat coast. Drug seized was heroin There were 11 drums on the boat with 20 plastic pouches containing a wheatish brown colour powder. Upon testing, it was found the power was heroin. Also read | Indian man crosses into Pakistan border to meet online lover, arrested The accused eight Pakistani nationals were also found in possession of three satellite phones and GPS navigation charts, among other electronic devices. Jail term handed under NDPS Act The PTI report said that the Special Judge for Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act cases, Shashikant Bangar, convicted the eight Pakistani nationals for offences committed under the anti-drug law. Under the NDPS Act, the convicts were handed over a 20-year jail term. The court also imposed a fine of $2,332 on each of them. Special Public Prosecutor Sumesh Punjwani had sought maximum punishment for the convicts, saying it could be a lesson for other drug traffickers. Also read | Pakistan witnesses 'deadliest year' for security forces amid violence surge The defence counsel, however, submitted that a lenient view be taken. After hearing both sides, the court refused to show leniency and sentenced the accused persons to maximum punishment. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian court sentences eight Pakistanis to 20 years in prison in drug seizure case

A recent study has suggested that low doses of a drug used to treat Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) could make people better at driving long distances.&nbsp;
According to a report by ScienceAlert on Wednesday (January 1), researchers from the Swinburne Univesity, Australia, were curious about the risks and benefits associated with methylphenidate might have on driving performance, specifically in people who do not have ADHD.
<h2>25 participants chosen for the study</h2>
The study conducted by Swinburne University enlisted 25 physically and mentally healthy drivers without a diagnosis of ADHD to understand what impact methylphenidate would have on their driving performance.
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The ScienceAlert report said that the participants were given 10 mg of the drug or a placebo 85 minutes before stepping behind the wheel of a driving simulator that mimicked a 105-kilometre bi-directional, four-lane highway with standard Australian road markings and signage.&nbsp;
The experiment was undertaken twice, with different participants allocated the placebo and drug.
<h2>'Methylphenidate significantly improved driving performance...'</h2>
The participants were told to drive for 40 minutes, maintaining a speed of 100 kmph (kilometres per hour) in the leftmost lane.
Occasionally, traffic conditions required them to overtake vehicles.&nbsp;
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As the participants focused on the road, a machine kept a close watch on their eye movements. Additionally, a computer recorded how far the participants deviated from the centre of their lane.
An algorithm, meanwhile, assessed how dispersed or focused the drivers' gazes were during the task, and how structured or random their visual scanning behaviour was.
The researchers said that methylphenidate&nbsp;significantly improved driving performance by reducing lane weaving and speed variation, particularly in the latter half of the drive.
<h2>People with ADHD are at more risk for road accidents</h2>
The study also highlighted that people with ADHD are at more risk for road accidents, and taking&nbsp;methylphenidate improves their driving performance.
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It has also been reported that numerous people take the drug without a prescription. 
(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Researchers have been curious about the risks and benefits associated with methylphenidate might have on driving performance, specifically in people who do not have ADHD.

A recent study has suggested that low doses of a drug used to treat Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) could make people better at driving long distances. According to a report by ScienceAlert on Wednesday (January 1), researchers from the Swinburne Univesity, Australia, were curious about the risks and benefits associated with methylphenidate might have on driving performance, specifically in people who do not have ADHD. 25 participants chosen for the study The study conducted by Swinburne University enlisted 25 physically and mentally healthy drivers without a diagnosis of ADHD to understand what impact methylphenidate would have on their driving performance. Also read | Can ADHD traits be a superpower? New study reveals they have evolutionary benefits The ScienceAlert report said that the participants were given 10 mg of the drug or a placebo 85 minutes before stepping behind the wheel of a driving simulator that mimicked a 105-kilometre bi-directional, four-lane highway with standard Australian road markings and signage. The experiment was undertaken twice, with different participants allocated the placebo and drug. 'Methylphenidate significantly improved driving performance...' The participants were told to drive for 40 minutes, maintaining a speed of 100 kmph (kilometres per hour) in the leftmost lane. Occasionally, traffic conditions required them to overtake vehicles. Also read | What are ADHD and adult ADHD? Health care experts warn against self-diagnosis As the participants focused on the road, a machine kept a close watch on their eye movements. Additionally, a computer recorded how far the participants deviated from the centre of their lane. An algorithm, meanwhile, assessed how dispersed or focused the drivers' gazes were during the task, and how structured or random their visual scanning behaviour was. The researchers said that methylphenidate significantly improved driving performance by reducing lane weaving and speed variation, particularly in the latter half of the drive. People with ADHD are at more risk for road accidents The study also highlighted that people with ADHD are at more risk for road accidents, and taking methylphenidate improves their driving performance. Also read | Babies' movements tracked with 'intelligent onesies' could help diagnose autism, ADHD It has also been reported that numerous people take the drug without a prescription. (With inputs from agencies)

Low doses of common ADHD drug can make people better at driving long distances: Study

Forty-two-year-old Shamsud-Din Jabbar has been identified as the suspect in the January 1 New Orleans truck attack which killed 15 people and injured dozens of others.
Jabbar was a US Army veteran with a service record of 13 years. Hours before the attack, he had posted videos on social media that he was inspired by the Islamic State and expressed a desire to kill. The accused was killed by the police after he exited the truck and opened fire on responding officers.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nfl/sugar-bowl-postponed-by-a-day-over-deadly-truck-ramming-new-orleans-attack-8584104" rel="dofollow">Sugar Bowl postponed by a day over deadly truck-ramming New Orleans attack</a>
However, another video featuring Jabbar has been circulating online where the 42-year-old advertises himself as a real estate agent, a report by the news agency Reuters on Thursday (Jan 2) said.
<h2>'Good evening, I'm Shamsud-Din Jabbar...'</h2>
In the video, Jabbar introduces himself as property manager with Blue Meadow Properties and team lead at the Midas Group at Core Realty.
"So I'm born and raised in Beaumont, Texas, and now live in Houston, and I've been here all my life, with the exception of travelling for the military, where I spent ten years as a human resources specialist and IT specialist, where I learned the meaning of great service and what it means to be responsive and take everything seriously, dotting I's and crossing T's to make sure that things go off without a hitch," Jabbar said.
<h3>Here's a look at the video (Source- X@Megatron_ron)</h3>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
NEW: 🇺🇸 Video emerges of Shamsud Din Jabbar, the New Orleans attack suspect, who was raised in Beaumont, Texas, and served in the U.S. Army. ETA: This video is 4-years old. In it he states that he works at the Midas Real Estate Group in Houston as a team lead. His role likely&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/HYkoz6yPGk">pic.twitter.com/HYkoz6yPGk</a>
&mdash; Megatron (@Megatron_ron) <a href="https://twitter.com/Megatron_ron/status/1874528930138304952?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 1, 2025</a></blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

"So I've taken those skills and applied them to my career as a real estate agent, where I feel like what really sets me apart from other agents is my ability to be able to, one be a fierce negotiator. So not only do I brilliantly market your property to make sure it gets sold as quickly as possible or gets leased as quickly as possible, but I'm also going to take every ounce of energy and putting it into negotiating for you and for your property to get the best deal that you can possibly get for it," he added.
"So, once we get to the closing table, all the I's are going to be dotted, all the T's are going to be crossed, everything's going to go off without a hitch. And that is my word and I give to you as your real estate agent,&rdquo; the man further said.
It is not yet known when this video was taken.
<h2>Flags of ISIS found inside truck</h2>
As an investigation began into the attack, authorities found guns and what appeared to be an improvised explosive device in the vehicle &mdash; which bore the flag of ISIS &mdash; along with other explosive devices elsewhere in the city&rsquo;s famed French Quarter.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-orleans-truck-attack-biden-says-shamsud-din-jabbar-posted-isis-inspired-videos-hours-before-rampage-8584220" rel="dofollow">New Orleans truck attack: Biden says Shamsud-Din Jabbar posted ISIS-inspired videos hours before rampage</a>
Wednesday's attack in New Orleans was the latest example of a vehicle being used as a weapon to carry out mass violence and the deadliest ISIS-inspired assault on American soil in years.
<h2>Accused's brother blames radicalisation for attack</h2>
Jabbar's brother Abdur said that radicalisation was to blame for the 42-year-old's rampage. Speaking to the New York Times (NYT), Abdur said that his brother converted to Islam at an early age.
Abdur also told NYT that what his brother "did does not represent Islam. This is some type of radicalisation, not religion."
He described Shamsud-Din Jabbar as a nice guy, really smart, and caring.
(With inputs from agencies)

Wednesday's attack in New Orleans was the latest example of a vehicle being used as a weapon to carry out mass violence and the deadliest ISIS-inspired assault on American soil in years.

Forty-two-year-old Shamsud-Din Jabbar has been identified as the suspect in the January 1 New Orleans truck attack which killed 15 people and injured dozens of others. Jabbar was a US Army veteran with a service record of 13 years. Hours before the attack, he had posted videos on social media that he was inspired by the Islamic State and expressed a desire to kill. The accused was killed by the police after he exited the truck and opened fire on responding officers. Also read | Sugar Bowl postponed by a day over deadly truck-ramming New Orleans attack However, another video featuring Jabbar has been circulating online where the 42-year-old advertises himself as a real estate agent, a report by the news agency Reuters on Thursday (Jan 2) said. 'Good evening, I'm Shamsud-Din Jabbar...' In the video, Jabbar introduces himself as property manager with Blue Meadow Properties and team lead at the Midas Group at Core Realty. "So I'm born and raised in Beaumont, Texas, and now live in Houston, and I've been here all my life, with the exception of travelling for the military, where I spent ten years as a human resources specialist and IT specialist, where I learned the meaning of great service and what it means to be responsive and take everything seriously, dotting I's and crossing T's to make sure that things go off without a hitch," Jabbar said. Here's a look at the video (Source- X@Megatron_ron) NEW: 🇺🇸 Video emerges of Shamsud Din Jabbar, the New Orleans attack suspect, who was raised in Beaumont, Texas, and served in the U.S. Army. ETA: This video is 4-years old. In it he states that he works at the Midas Real Estate Group in Houston as a team lead. His role likely… pic.twitter.com/HYkoz6yPGk — Megatron (@Megatron_ron) January 1, 2025 "So I've taken those skills and applied them to my career as a real estate agent, where I feel like what really sets me apart from other agents is my ability to be able to, one be a fierce negotiator. So not only do I brilliantly market your property to make sure it gets sold as quickly as possible or gets leased as quickly as possible, but I'm also going to take every ounce of energy and putting it into negotiating for you and for your property to get the best deal that you can possibly get for it," he added. "So, once we get to the closing table, all the I's are going to be dotted, all the T's are going to be crossed, everything's going to go off without a hitch. And that is my word and I give to you as your real estate agent,” the man further said. It is not yet known when this video was taken. Flags of ISIS found inside truck As an investigation began into the attack, authorities found guns and what appeared to be an improvised explosive device in the vehicle — which bore the flag of ISIS — along with other explosive devices elsewhere in the city’s famed French Quarter. Also read | New Orleans truck attack: Biden says Shamsud-Din Jabbar posted ISIS-inspired videos hours before rampage Wednesday's attack in New Orleans was the latest example of a vehicle being used as a weapon to carry out mass violence and the deadliest ISIS-inspired assault on American soil in years. Accused's brother blames radicalisation for attack Jabbar's brother Abdur said that radicalisation was to blame for the 42-year-old's rampage. Speaking to the New York Times (NYT), Abdur said that his brother converted to Islam at an early age. Abdur also told NYT that what his brother "did does not represent Islam. This is some type of radicalisation, not religion." He described Shamsud-Din Jabbar as a nice guy, really smart, and caring. (With inputs from agencies)

Good evening, I'm Shamsud-Din Jabbar: Footage emerges of New Orleans truck attack accused offering real estate services

Authorities in the United States (US) have identified the victim who died after she was heinously burnt alive at a subway in New York City.
According to American media reports late Tuesday (Dec 31), the victim was identified as 61-year-old Debrina Kawam, a resident of New Jersey.
Kawam was lit on fire and burnt to death on a subway train at the&nbsp;Coney Island-Stillwell Avenue subway station in Brooklyn.
<h2>Victim's body was unidentifiable for days</h2>
According to a report by Fox News, Kawam's body was unidentifiable for days after the attack as she was so severely burned. Citing a homeless non-profit coalition, the report said that the woman might have been homeless at the time of her death.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nyc-subway-murder-suspect-indicted-on-murder-and-arson-charges-8572324" rel="dofollow">NYC subway immolation: Suspect indicted on murder and arson charges</a>
The police were unable to confirm that she was indeed homeless.
<h2>Sebastian Zapeta, the accused who faces murder charges</h2>
The accused behind the horrific crime was identified as 33-year-old Sebastian Zapeta, a Guatemalan citizen who illegally entered the US after he was deported in 2018.
Zapeta was arrested about six hours after police say he used a lighter to ignite the clothes of the 61-year-old woman who appeared to be dozing on a stationary train at the subway station in Brooklyn.
H⁠⁠e's been indicted on one count of murder in the first degree, three counts of murder in the second degree, and one count of arson.
Earlier this week, Brooklyn District Attorney Eric Gonzalez said that the man faced life without the possibility of parole on the murder in the first-degree charge, while second-degree murder carries 25 years to life.
(With inputs from agencies)

World | Trending: The horrific incident occurred on December 22, when illegal immigrant Sebastien Zapeta set the woman on fire using a lighter. He now faces murder charges. 

Authorities in the United States (US) have identified the victim who died after she was heinously burnt alive at a subway in New York City. According to American media reports late Tuesday (Dec 31), the victim was identified as 61-year-old Debrina Kawam, a resident of New Jersey. Kawam was lit on fire and burnt to death on a subway train at the Coney Island-Stillwell Avenue subway station in Brooklyn. Victim's body was unidentifiable for days According to a report by Fox News, Kawam's body was unidentifiable for days after the attack as she was so severely burned. Citing a homeless non-profit coalition, the report said that the woman might have been homeless at the time of her death. Also read | NYC subway immolation: Suspect indicted on murder and arson charges The police were unable to confirm that she was indeed homeless. Sebastian Zapeta, the accused who faces murder charges The accused behind the horrific crime was identified as 33-year-old Sebastian Zapeta, a Guatemalan citizen who illegally entered the US after he was deported in 2018. Zapeta was arrested about six hours after police say he used a lighter to ignite the clothes of the 61-year-old woman who appeared to be dozing on a stationary train at the subway station in Brooklyn. H⁠⁠e's been indicted on one count of murder in the first degree, three counts of murder in the second degree, and one count of arson. Earlier this week, Brooklyn District Attorney Eric Gonzalez said that the man faced life without the possibility of parole on the murder in the first-degree charge, while second-degree murder carries 25 years to life. (With inputs from agencies)

New York City subway burning: Authorities identify victim as 61-year-old woman

Russian President Vladimir Putin marked 25 years in power on Tuesday (Dec 31) which is also New Year's Eve. In his New Year's speech to citizens, President Putin said that Russians should be proud of what their country had done during his time in power.
"Dear friends, in just a few minutes 2025 will be ushered in, completing the first quarter of the 21st century," Putin said in the televised remarks.
"Yes, we still have a lot to decide, but we can be rightfully proud of what has already been done," he added, saying the 25 years had paved the way for "further development."
<h2>Putin praises Russia's soldiers</h2>
During his address, Vladimir Putin praised Russia's soldiers, a theme that was echoed in his previous New Year's Eve addresses since Moscow launched a full-scale offensive against Ukraine in late February 2022.
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"On this New Year's Eve, the thoughts and hopes of relatives and friends, millions of people across Russia are together with our fighters and commanders," the Russian president said.
"Now, on the threshold of a new year, we are thinking about the future. We are sure that everything will be all right. We will only go forward," he added.
<h2>Will the Russia-Ukraine war continue?</h2>
Putin's remarks came as the war between Russia and Ukraine would soon enter its third year.&nbsp;
Russia has launched overnight aerial attacks on Ukraine almost every day since its forces invaded in February 2022, targeting military and civilian infrastructure, including the power grid.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-moscow-kyiv-exchange-300-prisoners-in-uae-brokered-deal-8579024" rel="dofollow">Russia-Ukraine war: Moscow, Kyiv exchange 300 prisoners in UAE-brokered deal</a>
Moscow launched a barrage of drones and missiles across Ukraine overnight and early Tuesday, with officials conceding there were successful strikes in the east of the country and near Kyiv.
A recent analysis of the data from the Institute for the Study of War done by the news agency AFP showed that Russia advanced by almost 4,000 square kilometres in Ukraine in 2024, seven times more than in 2023.
(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

World: In his New Year's speech, President Vladimir Putin said that Russians should be proud of what their country had done during his time in power.

Russian President Vladimir Putin marked 25 years in power on Tuesday (Dec 31) which is also New Year's Eve. In his New Year's speech to citizens, President Putin said that Russians should be proud of what their country had done during his time in power. "Dear friends, in just a few minutes 2025 will be ushered in, completing the first quarter of the 21st century," Putin said in the televised remarks. "Yes, we still have a lot to decide, but we can be rightfully proud of what has already been done," he added, saying the 25 years had paved the way for "further development." Putin praises Russia's soldiers During his address, Vladimir Putin praised Russia's soldiers, a theme that was echoed in his previous New Year's Eve addresses since Moscow launched a full-scale offensive against Ukraine in late February 2022. Also read | North Korean leader Kim Jong Un sends New Year greetings to 'dearest friend' Putin "On this New Year's Eve, the thoughts and hopes of relatives and friends, millions of people across Russia are together with our fighters and commanders," the Russian president said. "Now, on the threshold of a new year, we are thinking about the future. We are sure that everything will be all right. We will only go forward," he added. Will the Russia-Ukraine war continue? Putin's remarks came as the war between Russia and Ukraine would soon enter its third year. Russia has launched overnight aerial attacks on Ukraine almost every day since its forces invaded in February 2022, targeting military and civilian infrastructure, including the power grid. Also read | Russia-Ukraine war: Moscow, Kyiv exchange 300 prisoners in UAE-brokered deal Moscow launched a barrage of drones and missiles across Ukraine overnight and early Tuesday, with officials conceding there were successful strikes in the east of the country and near Kyiv. A recent analysis of the data from the Institute for the Study of War done by the news agency AFP showed that Russia advanced by almost 4,000 square kilometres in Ukraine in 2024, seven times more than in 2023. (With inputs from agencies)

Putin marks 25 years in power, praises Russia’s achievements in New Year’s Eve speech

The French military bombed positions of the Islamic State (ISIS) in Syria on Tuesday (Dec 31), the first such strike in the West Asian country since the fall of Bashar al-Assad's government.
In a post on X, Defence Minister Sebastien Lecornu said, "Our armed forces remain engaged in battling terrorism in the Levant." "On Sunday, French air assets carried out targeted strikes against Daesh (the Arabic name for ISIS) on Syrian soil," he added.
<h2>A total of seven bombs dropped in central Syria</h2>
Speaking to the news agency AFP, the French defence ministry said that Rafale fighter jets and US-made Reaper drones dropped "a total of seven bombs on two military targets belonging to Daesh in central Syria."
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Nos arm&eacute;es restent engag&eacute;es dans la lutte contre le terrorisme au Levant. Elles contribuent &agrave; la coalition internationale "Operation Inherent Resolve" (OIR), depuis 2014 en Irak et 2015 en Syrie. Dimanche, des moyens a&eacute;riens fran&ccedil;ais ont proc&eacute;d&eacute; &agrave; des frappes cibl&eacute;es contre des&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/uwzOmcJDce">pic.twitter.com/uwzOmcJDce</a>
&mdash; S&eacute;bastien Lecornu (@SebLecornu) <a href="https://twitter.com/SebLecornu/status/1873988975930548616?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 31, 2024</a></blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

France has been part of the Inherent Resolve international coalition against ISIS since 2014 for Iraq and 2015 for Syria.
<h2>The Syrian rebel group's battle with the ISIS</h2>
The rebel offensive in Syria, which led to Bashar al-Assad's ouster, was led by the&nbsp;Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS).&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/syrias-new-leader-ahmed-al-sharaa-says-need-to-rewrite-constitution-before-elections-happen-urges-us-to-lift-sanctions-8576403" rel="dofollow">Syria's new leader Ahmed al-Sharaa urges US to lift sanctions, blames Assad regime for them</a>
AFP reported that in its Idlib stronghold, the HTS has long battled jihadists from the Islamic State group, which was territorially defeated in Syria in 2019.
Recently, Syria's de-factor leader Ahmed al-Sharaa has tapped dozens of former rebels for high-ranking army positions, several of whom are foreign fighters.&nbsp;
A decree published late Sunday on the Telegram account of Sharaa's General Command listed 49 people to be made commanders, in the first such announcement since the fall of the Assad government on December 8.
(With inputs from agencies)

World News, Middle East: France has been part of the Inherent Resolve international coalition against ISIS. A total of seven bombs were dropped on two positions in Syria. 

The French military bombed positions of the Islamic State (ISIS) in Syria on Tuesday (Dec 31), the first such strike in the West Asian country since the fall of Bashar al-Assad's government. In a post on X, Defence Minister Sebastien Lecornu said, "Our armed forces remain engaged in battling terrorism in the Levant." "On Sunday, French air assets carried out targeted strikes against Daesh (the Arabic name for ISIS) on Syrian soil," he added. A total of seven bombs dropped in central Syria Speaking to the news agency AFP, the French defence ministry said that Rafale fighter jets and US-made Reaper drones dropped "a total of seven bombs on two military targets belonging to Daesh in central Syria." Nos armées restent engagées dans la lutte contre le terrorisme au Levant. Elles contribuent à la coalition internationale "Operation Inherent Resolve" (OIR), depuis 2014 en Irak et 2015 en Syrie. Dimanche, des moyens aériens français ont procédé à des frappes ciblées contre des… pic.twitter.com/uwzOmcJDce — Sébastien Lecornu (@SebLecornu) December 31, 2024 France has been part of the Inherent Resolve international coalition against ISIS since 2014 for Iraq and 2015 for Syria. The Syrian rebel group's battle with the ISIS The rebel offensive in Syria, which led to Bashar al-Assad's ouster, was led by the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS). Also read | Syria's new leader Ahmed al-Sharaa urges US to lift sanctions, blames Assad regime for them AFP reported that in its Idlib stronghold, the HTS has long battled jihadists from the Islamic State group, which was territorially defeated in Syria in 2019. Recently, Syria's de-factor leader Ahmed al-Sharaa has tapped dozens of former rebels for high-ranking army positions, several of whom are foreign fighters. A decree published late Sunday on the Telegram account of Sharaa's General Command listed 49 people to be made commanders, in the first such announcement since the fall of the Assad government on December 8. (With inputs from agencies)

French military bombs ISIS positions in Syria, the first since fall of Assad govt

The tragic crash of the Jeju Air flight 7C2216 on December 29 is one of the deadliest aviation disasters in South Korea in decades. The crash killed 179 people out of the total 181 on board.
The direct cause of the crash was the malfunction of the landing gear, but the specific reason for this failure remains under further investigation. Other potential reasons, including a bird strike and runway safety concerns, are also being examined.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korea-plane-crash-had-two-survivors-what-saved-them-8579763" rel="dofollow">South Korea plane crash had two survivors. What saved them?</a>
Following the tragedy, empty desks and a calendar marking days off after Christmas sit in an office in Muan where five employees were among the victims of the crash.
<h2>Colleagues wear black ribbons to condole deaths</h2>
According to a report by the news agency Reuters on Tuesday (Dec 31), the five female colleagues at a public education office had gone on a trip together to Bangkok to celebrate their promotions and were flying home on the flight that crashed at the Muan International Airport.
Colleagues of the victims wearing black ribbons cried at their desks watching over a victim's empty desk where white chrysanthemums had been placed in mourning.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/s-korean-plane-crash-over-60k-cancel-jeju-air-flight-reservations-after-tragedy-8578487" rel="dofollow">South Korean plane crash: Over 60,000 people cancel Jeju Air flight reservations after tragedy, says report</a>
Packed boxes with books and stationeries awaited another victim who was supposed to move to another desk in the new year, Reuters reported.
At the office, officials wore black ribbons and set up an altar where colleagues and neighbours came to pay condolences.
<h2>Authorities accelerate identification of crash victims</h2>
In the latest news from the aftermath of the tragedy, investigators were expediting efforts to identify the victims.&nbsp;
Reuters further reported that the Muan International Airport would remain closed until January 7 as authorities continued to probe the cause of the tragedy.
In response to the tragedy, South Korea's acting President Choi Sang-mok has ordered an emergency inspection of all airlines, starting with the 101 Boeing 737-800 aircraft currently operated by South Korean carriers.
(With inputs from agencies)

World | Colleagues of the five office employees wearing black ribbons cried at their desks watching over a victim's empty desk where white chrysanthemums had been placed in mourning.

The tragic crash of the Jeju Air flight 7C2216 on December 29 is one of the deadliest aviation disasters in South Korea in decades. The crash killed 179 people out of the total 181 on board. The direct cause of the crash was the malfunction of the landing gear, but the specific reason for this failure remains under further investigation. Other potential reasons, including a bird strike and runway safety concerns, are also being examined. Also read | South Korea plane crash had two survivors. What saved them? Following the tragedy, empty desks and a calendar marking days off after Christmas sit in an office in Muan where five employees were among the victims of the crash. Colleagues wear black ribbons to condole deaths According to a report by the news agency Reuters on Tuesday (Dec 31), the five female colleagues at a public education office had gone on a trip together to Bangkok to celebrate their promotions and were flying home on the flight that crashed at the Muan International Airport. Colleagues of the victims wearing black ribbons cried at their desks watching over a victim's empty desk where white chrysanthemums had been placed in mourning. Also read | South Korean plane crash: Over 60,000 people cancel Jeju Air flight reservations after tragedy, says report Packed boxes with books and stationeries awaited another victim who was supposed to move to another desk in the new year, Reuters reported. At the office, officials wore black ribbons and set up an altar where colleagues and neighbours came to pay condolences. Authorities accelerate identification of crash victims In the latest news from the aftermath of the tragedy, investigators were expediting efforts to identify the victims. Reuters further reported that the Muan International Airport would remain closed until January 7 as authorities continued to probe the cause of the tragedy. In response to the tragedy, South Korea's acting President Choi Sang-mok has ordered an emergency inspection of all airlines, starting with the 101 Boeing 737-800 aircraft currently operated by South Korean carriers. (With inputs from agencies)

South Korea plane crash | Tears, empty desks: Office mourns death of five colleagues in Jeju Air accident

India's space agency, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), launched its year-end mission: the "Space Docking Experiment" also known as SpaDex, successfully on Monday (Dec 30).
The mission, on the PSLV-C60 rocket, was launched from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh.&nbsp;
In a post on X, ISRO said that the mission was launched at 10 pm IST. In a subsequent post, ISRO added, "Successful separation of SpaDeX satellites marks another milestone in India&rsquo;s space journey."
<h2>A look at the SpaDex mission</h2>
As per the ISRO, the primary objective of the SpaDeX mission is to develop and demonstrate the technology needed for rendezvous, docking, and undocking of two small spacecraft (SDX01, which is the Chaser, and SDX02, the Target, nominally) in a low-Earth circular orbit.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) launches PSLV-C60 with <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SpaDeX?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SpaDeX</a> and innovative payloads from Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh. READ: <a href="https://t.co/YriHwWifZS">https://t.co/YriHwWifZS</a> Source: ANI/ISRO <a href="https://t.co/IM1DjtbGSc">pic.twitter.com/IM1DjtbGSc</a>
&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1873769789518426197?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 30, 2024</a></blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

In a statement issued earlier, ISRO said, "In addition, SpaDeX, because of its small size and mass, is even more challenging due to the finer precision required for the rendezvous and docking manoeuvres compared to docking two large spacecraft. This mission will be a forerunner for autonomous docking needed for future lunar missions like Chandrayaan-4 without the support of GNSS from Earth."
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/isro-spadex-explainer-indias-most-sophisticated-mission-around-earth-8576199" rel="dofollow">Explainer: Why SpaDex is India's most sophisticated mission around Earth</a>
WION earlier reported that at the time of the ejection, the final stage of the PSLV rocket will be utilised to give a small relative velocity between the Target and Chaser spacecraft at the time of separation from the launch vehicle. 
Simply put, the Target satellite will be travelling slightly faster than the Chaser.&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Indian Space Research Organisation launches <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SpaDex?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SpaDex</a> mission from Andhra Pradesh's Sriharikota. The mission will demonstrate in-space docking technology, integral for future space missions.<a href="https://twitter.com/eriknjoka?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@eriknjoka</a> joined by WION's <a href="https://twitter.com/sdhrthmp?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@sdhrthmp</a> for updates.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SpaDexLaunch?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SpaDexLaunch</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SpaceNews?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SpaceNews</a> <a href="https://t.co/6KcvUm89d7">pic.twitter.com/6KcvUm89d7</a>
&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1873775117303734778?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 30, 2024</a></blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Gradually, the satellites will autonomously reduce the distance between themselves by adjusting their respective velocities.

India News: The primary objective of the SpaDeX mission is to develop and demonstrate the technology needed for rendezvous, docking, and undocking of two small spacecraft

India's space agency, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), launched its year-end mission: the "Space Docking Experiment" also known as SpaDex, successfully on Monday (Dec 30). The mission, on the PSLV-C60 rocket, was launched from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh. In a post on X, ISRO said that the mission was launched at 10 pm IST. In a subsequent post, ISRO added, "Successful separation of SpaDeX satellites marks another milestone in India’s space journey." A look at the SpaDex mission As per the ISRO, the primary objective of the SpaDeX mission is to develop and demonstrate the technology needed for rendezvous, docking, and undocking of two small spacecraft (SDX01, which is the Chaser, and SDX02, the Target, nominally) in a low-Earth circular orbit. #WATCH | Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) launches PSLV-C60 with #SpaDeX and innovative payloads from Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh. READ: https://t.co/YriHwWifZS Source: ANI/ISRO pic.twitter.com/IM1DjtbGSc — WION (@WIONews) December 30, 2024 In a statement issued earlier, ISRO said, "In addition, SpaDeX, because of its small size and mass, is even more challenging due to the finer precision required for the rendezvous and docking manoeuvres compared to docking two large spacecraft. This mission will be a forerunner for autonomous docking needed for future lunar missions like Chandrayaan-4 without the support of GNSS from Earth." Also read | Explainer: Why SpaDex is India's most sophisticated mission around Earth WION earlier reported that at the time of the ejection, the final stage of the PSLV rocket will be utilised to give a small relative velocity between the Target and Chaser spacecraft at the time of separation from the launch vehicle. Simply put, the Target satellite will be travelling slightly faster than the Chaser. Indian Space Research Organisation launches #SpaDex mission from Andhra Pradesh's Sriharikota. The mission will demonstrate in-space docking technology, integral for future space missions.@eriknjoka joined by WION's @sdhrthmp for updates.#SpaDexLaunch #SpaceNews pic.twitter.com/6KcvUm89d7 — WION (@WIONews) December 30, 2024 Gradually, the satellites will autonomously reduce the distance between themselves by adjusting their respective velocities.

Watch: Indian space agency ISRO successfully launches SpaDeX mission

More than 60,000 people have cancelled their flight reservations with Jeju Air following the fatal crash of the South Korean airline's flight 7C2216 on Sunday (Dec 29).&nbsp;
According to a report by the Yonhap news agency on Monday, Jeju Air said that about 68,000 flight reservations&mdash;over 33,000 for domestic travel and 34,000 for international travel&mdash;had been cancelled as of Monday afternoon.
The report said that the majority of the cancellations occurred at 9 am Sunday, when flight 7C2216 of Jeju Air crashed, killing 179 of the 181 people on board. The survivors of the crash were two crew members.
<h2>Travel agencies report spike in cancellations of tour packages</h2>
The report by Yonhap also said that apart from Jeju Air flight reservations&nbsp;being cancelled, local travel agencies in South Korea also reported a spike in cancellations of tour packages in the wake of the crash.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korea-plane-crash-8578104" rel="dofollow">South Korea plane crash: Govt orders emergency airline inspections after Jeju Air disaster claims 179 lives</a>
Speaking to the news agency, a travel agent said, "We had about 40 inquiries regarding travel cancellations on Sunday alone."
"We saw about double the usual amount of cancellations and a 50 per cent decrease in bookings," the travel agent added.
<h2>Sunday's crash is the deadliest air disaster in decades</h2>
Flight 7C2216 of Jeju Air crashed while landing at the Muan International Airport in Muan County, South Korea. Citing authorities, a report by the news agency Reuters said the bodies of all 179 victims were retrieved from the crash site on Sunday night.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korean-prosecutors-seek-arrest-warrant-for-yoon-after-ousted-president-skips-questioning-for-the-third-time-8577341" rel="dofollow">South Korean prosecutors seek arrest warrant for ousted president Yoon as he defies summons</a>
The accident marked the worst air disaster in South Korea in decades. Last, 66 people&nbsp;were killed in a plane crash in 1993.
<h2>Malfunction of landing gear is direct cause of crash</h2>
The direct cause of the crash was the malfunction of the landing gear, but the specific reason for this failure remains under further investigation.
Reuters reported that Seoul was working to identify the victims, while various government agencies are providing support to the families of the deceased.
The government announced a week-long period of national mourning.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Jeju Air said that about 68,000 flight reservations—over 33,000 for domestic travel and 34,000 for international travel—had been cancelled by Monday afternoon.

More than 60,000 people have cancelled their flight reservations with Jeju Air following the fatal crash of the South Korean airline's flight 7C2216 on Sunday (Dec 29). According to a report by the Yonhap news agency on Monday, Jeju Air said that about 68,000 flight reservations—over 33,000 for domestic travel and 34,000 for international travel—had been cancelled as of Monday afternoon. The report said that the majority of the cancellations occurred at 9 am Sunday, when flight 7C2216 of Jeju Air crashed, killing 179 of the 181 people on board. The survivors of the crash were two crew members. Travel agencies report spike in cancellations of tour packages The report by Yonhap also said that apart from Jeju Air flight reservations being cancelled, local travel agencies in South Korea also reported a spike in cancellations of tour packages in the wake of the crash. Also read | South Korea plane crash: Govt orders emergency airline inspections after Jeju Air disaster claims 179 lives Speaking to the news agency, a travel agent said, "We had about 40 inquiries regarding travel cancellations on Sunday alone." "We saw about double the usual amount of cancellations and a 50 per cent decrease in bookings," the travel agent added. Sunday's crash is the deadliest air disaster in decades Flight 7C2216 of Jeju Air crashed while landing at the Muan International Airport in Muan County, South Korea. Citing authorities, a report by the news agency Reuters said the bodies of all 179 victims were retrieved from the crash site on Sunday night. Also read | South Korean prosecutors seek arrest warrant for ousted president Yoon as he defies summons The accident marked the worst air disaster in South Korea in decades. Last, 66 people were killed in a plane crash in 1993. Malfunction of landing gear is direct cause of crash The direct cause of the crash was the malfunction of the landing gear, but the specific reason for this failure remains under further investigation. Reuters reported that Seoul was working to identify the victims, while various government agencies are providing support to the families of the deceased. The government announced a week-long period of national mourning. (With inputs from agencies)

South Korean plane crash: Over 60,000 people cancel Jeju Air flight reservations after tragedy, says report

Former Delhi chief minister and Aam Aadmi Party's (AAP) national convener Arvind Kejriwal said on Monday (Dec 30) that his party would provide a monthly allowance of $210.5 (Rs 18,000) to Hindu temple priests and granthis of gurdwaras.
"Pujaris and granthis are an important part of our society, but they are often a neglected section. For the first time in the country, we are introducing a scheme to support them, under which they will receive a monthly allowance of Rs 18,000," Kejriwal said during a press conference.&nbsp;
The announcement of the scheme, called 'Pujari Granthi Samman Yojana,' came ahead of assembly elections in Delhi.&nbsp;
<h2>Registration for scheme to begin on Tuesday</h2>
Kejriwal said that the registration process for the scheme will begin on Tuesday. Kejriwal said that on Tuesday, he would visit the Hanuman Mandir in Delhi's Connaught Place to oversee the registration process of the priests.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/shocking-delhi-govt-departments-call-schemes-launched-by-kejriwal-fraudulent-786722" rel="dofollow">Shocking! Delhi govt departments call schemes launched by Kejriwal &lsquo;fraudulent&rsquo;</a>
After making the above remarks, the former CM said in a social media post, "This scheme is a tribute to their spiritual contribution to society and their efforts to preserve our cultural heritage."
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
VIDEO | Delhi: Priests met AAP national convenor Arvind Kejriwal (<a href="https://twitter.com/ArvindKejriwal?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ArvindKejriwal</a>) at his residence following AAP's announcement of 'Pujari Granthi Samman Yojana', earlier today. (Full video available on PTI Videos - <a href="https://t.co/n147TvrpG7">https://t.co/n147TvrpG7</a>) <a href="https://t.co/FQWMOhCldt">pic.twitter.com/FQWMOhCldt</a>
&mdash; Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) <a href="https://twitter.com/PTI_News/status/1873709374298001869?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 30, 2024</a></blockquote>
Kejriwal did not specify clear guidelines for the registration process. He said&nbsp;the number of registrations to avail of the proposed honorarium would be made public once the process was completed.
It is also not yet known whether "Pujari Granthi Samman Yojana" would cover priests of churches in India's national capital.&nbsp;
<h2>Imams protest over delay in release of salaries</h2>
Kejriwal's decision to announce a monthly pay to Hindu temple priests and granthis of gurdwaras came hours after Imams of the Delhi Waqf Board launched a protest outside the AAP national convener's residence over a delay by the Delhi government in the release of their (Imams') salaries.
Speaking to the news agency ANI, All India Imam Association Chairman Sajid Rashidi said that the imams have not received their salaries for the last 17 months.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/arvind-kejriwal-didnt-do-anything-for-women-in-the-last-10-years-bjp-lop-vijender-gupta-786104" rel="dofollow">BJP launches scathing attack on Kejriwal: 'He didn&rsquo;t do anything for women in the last 10 years'</a>
Rashidi said that the imams were continuously meeting several officials and leaders of the Delhi government, but no action had been taken yet.
"...If they do not give us our answers now, we will sit on a protest here (outside Kejriwal's residence) and not get up till we get our salaries."
(With inputs from agencies)

India News: It is also not yet known whether "Pujari Granthi Samman Yojana" would cover priests of churches. Kejriwal did not specify clear guidelines for the registration process.

Former Delhi chief minister and Aam Aadmi Party's (AAP) national convener Arvind Kejriwal said on Monday (Dec 30) that his party would provide a monthly allowance of $210.5 (Rs 18,000) to Hindu temple priests and granthis of gurdwaras. "Pujaris and granthis are an important part of our society, but they are often a neglected section. For the first time in the country, we are introducing a scheme to support them, under which they will receive a monthly allowance of Rs 18,000," Kejriwal said during a press conference. The announcement of the scheme, called 'Pujari Granthi Samman Yojana,' came ahead of assembly elections in Delhi. Registration for scheme to begin on Tuesday Kejriwal said that the registration process for the scheme will begin on Tuesday. Kejriwal said that on Tuesday, he would visit the Hanuman Mandir in Delhi's Connaught Place to oversee the registration process of the priests. Also read | Shocking! Delhi govt departments call schemes launched by Kejriwal ‘fraudulent’ After making the above remarks, the former CM said in a social media post, "This scheme is a tribute to their spiritual contribution to society and their efforts to preserve our cultural heritage." VIDEO | Delhi: Priests met AAP national convenor Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) at his residence following AAP's announcement of 'Pujari Granthi Samman Yojana', earlier today. (Full video available on PTI Videos - https://t.co/n147TvrpG7) pic.twitter.com/FQWMOhCldt — Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) December 30, 2024 Kejriwal did not specify clear guidelines for the registration process. He said the number of registrations to avail of the proposed honorarium would be made public once the process was completed. It is also not yet known whether "Pujari Granthi Samman Yojana" would cover priests of churches in India's national capital. Imams protest over delay in release of salaries Kejriwal's decision to announce a monthly pay to Hindu temple priests and granthis of gurdwaras came hours after Imams of the Delhi Waqf Board launched a protest outside the AAP national convener's residence over a delay by the Delhi government in the release of their (Imams') salaries. Speaking to the news agency ANI, All India Imam Association Chairman Sajid Rashidi said that the imams have not received their salaries for the last 17 months. Also read | BJP launches scathing attack on Kejriwal: 'He didn’t do anything for women in the last 10 years' Rashidi said that the imams were continuously meeting several officials and leaders of the Delhi government, but no action had been taken yet. "...If they do not give us our answers now, we will sit on a protest here (outside Kejriwal's residence) and not get up till we get our salaries." (With inputs from agencies)

Kejriwal announces honorarium for priests, granthis while imams protest against AAP govt over delayed salaries

There seems no near end to the ongoing conflict between Israel and the Iran-aligned Lebanese militant group Hezbollah.&nbsp;
The conflict between Israel and Hezbollah resumed a year ago when the militant group began firing rockets at Israel in support of Palestinian terrorist group Hamas that started the Gaza war.
Israel has killed top leaders of the Iran-aligned Lebanese militant group,&nbsp;including Hassan Nasrallah.
<h2>A deep infiltration into Hezbollah</h2>
On Sunday (Dec 29), American media reported that Israel's spy network had infiltrated very deeply into all aspects of Hezbollah's leadership, so much so that Tel Aviv found out about one senior Hezbollah commander's four mistresses and his desperate plan to marry them.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lebanon-blasts-work-began-on-weaponising-walkie-talkies-over-a-decade-ago-say-ex-mossad-agents-786215" rel="dofollow">Lebanon blasts: Work began on weaponising walkie-talkies over a decade ago, say ex-Mossad agents</a>
Israeli intelligence recruited people to plant listening devices in Hezbollah bunkers and also had near-constant visibility into the movements of the group's leaders.
<h2>The Hezbollah leader and his marriage proposal</h2>
According to a report by The New York Times (NYT), the Hezbollah commander who decided to marry four women over the telephone&nbsp;was identified as Fuad Shukr.
Shukr, a co-founder of Hezbollah, was a key figure in the militant group's command chain. He was killed in an Israeli airstrike in July.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-minister-katz-threatens-to-crush-hezbollahs-head-if-they-violates-ceasefire-785988" rel="dofollow">Israeli minister Katz threatens to 'crush Hezbollah's head' if it violates ceasefire</a>
Israeli and European officials familiar with the developments told NYT that Shukr juggled four different mistresses&mdash;something he allegedly felt guilty about and sought to correct by marrying all four of them.
<h2>Shukr sought help from Hezbollah's highest religious cleric</h2>
Shukr's extramarital affairs&nbsp;were kept hidden until he sought help earlier this year from Hezbollah's highest religious cleric, Hashem Safieddine.
Safieddine, who was also killed in an airstrike after being named successor to Hassan Nasrallah, allegedly gave Shukr advice.&nbsp;
The cleric then set up four separate over-the-phone wedding ceremonies for Shukr and each of his mistresses. 
The NYT report also said that it was not known when the wedding ceremonies took place, but the unions did not last for long.
(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

World: The Hezbollah commander who decided to marry four women over the telephone was identified as Fuad Shukr. He was killed in an Israeli airstrike earlier this year. 

There seems no near end to the ongoing conflict between Israel and the Iran-aligned Lebanese militant group Hezbollah. The conflict between Israel and Hezbollah resumed a year ago when the militant group began firing rockets at Israel in support of Palestinian terrorist group Hamas that started the Gaza war. Israel has killed top leaders of the Iran-aligned Lebanese militant group, including Hassan Nasrallah. A deep infiltration into Hezbollah On Sunday (Dec 29), American media reported that Israel's spy network had infiltrated very deeply into all aspects of Hezbollah's leadership, so much so that Tel Aviv found out about one senior Hezbollah commander's four mistresses and his desperate plan to marry them. Also read | Lebanon blasts: Work began on weaponising walkie-talkies over a decade ago, say ex-Mossad agents Israeli intelligence recruited people to plant listening devices in Hezbollah bunkers and also had near-constant visibility into the movements of the group's leaders. The Hezbollah leader and his marriage proposal According to a report by The New York Times (NYT), the Hezbollah commander who decided to marry four women over the telephone was identified as Fuad Shukr. Shukr, a co-founder of Hezbollah, was a key figure in the militant group's command chain. He was killed in an Israeli airstrike in July. Also read | Israeli minister Katz threatens to 'crush Hezbollah's head' if it violates ceasefire Israeli and European officials familiar with the developments told NYT that Shukr juggled four different mistresses—something he allegedly felt guilty about and sought to correct by marrying all four of them. Shukr sought help from Hezbollah's highest religious cleric Shukr's extramarital affairs were kept hidden until he sought help earlier this year from Hezbollah's highest religious cleric, Hashem Safieddine. Safieddine, who was also killed in an airstrike after being named successor to Hassan Nasrallah, allegedly gave Shukr advice. The cleric then set up four separate over-the-phone wedding ceremonies for Shukr and each of his mistresses. The NYT report also said that it was not known when the wedding ceremonies took place, but the unions did not last for long. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel finds THIS Hezbollah commander's desparate plan to marry four women: Report

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