<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday (Sep 21) arrived in the US on a three-day visit to “further strengthen India-US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership,” attend the Quad summit and address a key conclave at the United Nations.</p>

<p>Modi will also hold separate bilateral meetings with US President Joe Biden and other world leaders on the margins of the Quad summit in Wilmington, Delaware, and the 'Summit of the Future' at the UN General Assembly in New York.</p>

<p>Modi landed at Philadelphia for his onward journey to Wilmington.</p>

<p>At the Philadelphia International Airport in Pennsylvania state, he was greeted by a large gathering of the Indian diaspora.&nbsp;</p>

<p>PM Modi greeted the group of people dressed in their traditional wear with many of them holding the Indian tri-colour. He walked along the fenced area, signed autographs for some of them and shook hands with some others.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-to-embark-on-3-day-us-trip-from-quad-to-un-summit-heres-what-the-schedule-looks-like-760476"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;PM Modi to embark on 3-day US trip: From Quad to UN Summit, here's what the schedule looks like</strong></a></p>

<p>“PM narendramodi arrives in the historic city of Philadelphia. An action-packed day with engagements in bilateral and Quad formats in Wilmington, Delaware lies ahead. Stay tuned!” the Ministry of External Affairs posted on X along with a few photos.</p>

<p>“Welcoming PM @narendramodi for a special visit to the USA to further strengthen India-US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership! During the visit, the PM will meet @Potus for bilateral discussions, participate in the 6th Quad Leaders' Summit, address the United Nations 'Summit of the Future,' and hold several other substantive engagements, including with the top tech CEOs and the Indian diaspora,” the Indian Embassy in the US posted on X.</p>

<p>The annual Quad summit at Wilmington, which is President Joe Biden's hometown, is expected to roll out a series of new initiatives to boost cooperation in the Indo-Pacific and explore ways to find peaceful solutions to the conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Indian PM Modi's US Visit: PM Modi to Interact With Indian Diaspora in New York</strong></p>

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<p>The prime minister's other engagements include joining an Indian diaspora event at Long Island and participating in a round table with CEOs of American firms working on cutting-edge technologies such as AI, quantum computing and semiconductors.</p>

<p>In his departure statement at New Delhi, Modi said he looked forward to joining his colleagues President Joe Biden, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, and Prime Minister Fumio Kishida for the Quad Summit.</p>

<p>“The forum has emerged as a key group of like-minded countries to work for peace, progress and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region,” he added.</p>

<p>The four-member Quad, or the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue, advocates upholding a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific. Beijing sees it as an anti-China grouping.</p>

<p>The Quad leaders are also set to unveil a “milestone” initiative to prevent, detect, treat, and alleviate the impact of cancer on patients and their families.</p>

<p>From Wilmington, Modi will travel to New York to attend an Indian community event at Long Island on September 22 and address the Summit of the Future at the UN General Assembly the next day.</p>

<p>“I am eagerly looking forward to engaging with the Indian diaspora and important American business leaders, who are the key stakeholders and provide vibrancy to the unique partnership between the largest and the oldest democracies of the world,” Modi said.</p>

<p>“The Summit of the Future is an opportunity for the global community to chart the road ahead for the betterment of humanity.</p>

<p>“I will share the views of one-sixth of humanity as their stakes in a peaceful and secure future are among the highest in the world,” the prime minister said.</p>

<p>The 'Summit of the Future' will bring leaders from various countries to forge a new international consensus on how to deliver a “better present and safeguard the future,” according to the UN.</p>

<p><em>Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.</em></p>


Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday (Sep 21) arrived in the US on a three-day visit to “further strengthen India-US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership,” attend the Quad summit and address a key conclave at the United Nations.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday (Sep 21) arrived in the US on a three-day visit to “further strengthen India-US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership,” attend the Quad summit and address a key conclave at the United Nations. Modi will also hold separate bilateral meetings with US President Joe Biden and other world leaders on the margins of the Quad summit in Wilmington, Delaware, and the 'Summit of the Future' at the UN General Assembly in New York. Modi landed at Philadelphia for his onward journey to Wilmington. At the Philadelphia International Airport in Pennsylvania state, he was greeted by a large gathering of the Indian diaspora. PM Modi greeted the group of people dressed in their traditional wear with many of them holding the Indian tri-colour. He walked along the fenced area, signed autographs for some of them and shook hands with some others. Also read: PM Modi to embark on 3-day US trip: From Quad to UN Summit, here's what the schedule looks like “PM narendramodi arrives in the historic city of Philadelphia. An action-packed day with engagements in bilateral and Quad formats in Wilmington, Delaware lies ahead. Stay tuned!” the Ministry of External Affairs posted on X along with a few photos. “Welcoming PM @narendramodi for a special visit to the USA to further strengthen India-US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership! During the visit, the PM will meet @Potus for bilateral discussions, participate in the 6th Quad Leaders' Summit, address the United Nations 'Summit of the Future,' and hold several other substantive engagements, including with the top tech CEOs and the Indian diaspora,” the Indian Embassy in the US posted on X. The annual Quad summit at Wilmington, which is President Joe Biden's hometown, is expected to roll out a series of new initiatives to boost cooperation in the Indo-Pacific and explore ways to find peaceful solutions to the conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza. Watch | Indian PM Modi's US Visit: PM Modi to Interact With Indian Diaspora in New York × The prime minister's other engagements include joining an Indian diaspora event at Long Island and participating in a round table with CEOs of American firms working on cutting-edge technologies such as AI, quantum computing and semiconductors. In his departure statement at New Delhi, Modi said he looked forward to joining his colleagues President Joe Biden, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, and Prime Minister Fumio Kishida for the Quad Summit. “The forum has emerged as a key group of like-minded countries to work for peace, progress and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region,” he added. The four-member Quad, or the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue, advocates upholding a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific. Beijing sees it as an anti-China grouping. The Quad leaders are also set to unveil a “milestone” initiative to prevent, detect, treat, and alleviate the impact of cancer on patients and their families. From Wilmington, Modi will travel to New York to attend an Indian community event at Long Island on September 22 and address the Summit of the Future at the UN General Assembly the next day. “I am eagerly looking forward to engaging with the Indian diaspora and important American business leaders, who are the key stakeholders and provide vibrancy to the unique partnership between the largest and the oldest democracies of the world,” Modi said. “The Summit of the Future is an opportunity for the global community to chart the road ahead for the betterment of humanity. “I will share the views of one-sixth of humanity as their stakes in a peaceful and secure future are among the highest in the world,” the prime minister said. The 'Summit of the Future' will bring leaders from various countries to forge a new international consensus on how to deliver a “better present and safeguard the future,” according to the UN. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

PM Modi arrives in US to attend Quad Summit, to hold meeting with President Biden

<p>Bangladesh has reversed the hilsa fish export ban and has approved the export of 3000 tonnes of hilsa fish to India ahead of&nbsp;the occasion of Durga Puja, Dhaka's commerce ministry announced in a statement on Saturday (Sep 21), as reported by Bangladesh-based newspaper The Daily Star.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The applicants have been advised to contact the relevant wing of the ministry to obtain export permissions, the statement read.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Against the backdrop of appeals by the exporters, approval has been given to export 3,000 tonnes of hilsa fish (to India), fulfilling the specific conditions on the occasion of the upcoming Durga Puja,” the commerce ministry said in a statement.</p>

<p>Earlier, the Bangladesh interim government led by Muhammad Yunus, decided to go against exporting hilsa to India this year to boost domestic supply.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Bangladesh halts Hilsa fish exports to India</strong></a></p>

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<p>In 2023, Bangladesh's commerce&nbsp;permitted 79 companies to export 50 tonnes of hilsa each, making it around 4000 tonnes, to India, on the occasion of Durga Puja.</p>

<p>Durga puja will be celebrated from October 9 to 13.</p>

<p>During the period of former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, the export of hilsa was allowed to India between September and October every year as a goodwill gesture.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India’s Fish Importers Association, earlier this month, urged Bangladesh Foreign Affairs Adviser Touhid Hossain to allow the export of hilsa to India during Durga Puja, amid uncertainty over the shipments of the fish this year following unrest and change of government in the country.</p>

<h2><strong>Yunus govt asks Hindus to pause Durga Puja music during namaz</strong></h2>

<p>Earlier this month, the country's interim government in Bangladesh asked Hindus in the country not to play musical instruments as part of Durga Puja celebrations during namaz and azan, the country's local media reports stated.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/muhammad-yunus-led-govt-in-bdesh-asks-hindus-to-pause-durga-puja-music-during-namaz-azan-758110"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong></a><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/muhammad-yunus-led-govt-in-bdesh-asks-hindus-to-pause-durga-puja-music-during-namaz-azan-758110">Bangladesh: Yunus govt asks Hindus to pause Durga Puja music during namaz and azan</a></strong></p>

<p>"Such activities need to cease during offering namaz, and the pause will have to be followed from five minutes prior to azan," Bangladesh Home Affairs Adviser, Lieutenant General (retired) Md Jahangir Alam Chowdhury said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Bangladesh has reversed the hilsa fish export ban and has approved the export of 3000 tonnes of hilsa fish to India ahead of the occasion of Durga Puja, Dhaka's commerce ministry announced in a statement on Saturday (Sep 21), as reported by Bangladesh-based newspaper The Daily Star.

Bangladesh has reversed the hilsa fish export ban and has approved the export of 3000 tonnes of hilsa fish to India ahead of the occasion of Durga Puja, Dhaka's commerce ministry announced in a statement on Saturday (Sep 21), as reported by Bangladesh-based newspaper The Daily Star. The applicants have been advised to contact the relevant wing of the ministry to obtain export permissions, the statement read. “Against the backdrop of appeals by the exporters, approval has been given to export 3,000 tonnes of hilsa fish (to India), fulfilling the specific conditions on the occasion of the upcoming Durga Puja,” the commerce ministry said in a statement. Earlier, the Bangladesh interim government led by Muhammad Yunus, decided to go against exporting hilsa to India this year to boost domestic supply. Watch | Bangladesh halts Hilsa fish exports to India × In 2023, Bangladesh's commerce permitted 79 companies to export 50 tonnes of hilsa each, making it around 4000 tonnes, to India, on the occasion of Durga Puja. Durga puja will be celebrated from October 9 to 13. During the period of former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, the export of hilsa was allowed to India between September and October every year as a goodwill gesture. India’s Fish Importers Association, earlier this month, urged Bangladesh Foreign Affairs Adviser Touhid Hossain to allow the export of hilsa to India during Durga Puja, amid uncertainty over the shipments of the fish this year following unrest and change of government in the country. Yunus govt asks Hindus to pause Durga Puja music during namaz Earlier this month, the country's interim government in Bangladesh asked Hindus in the country not to play musical instruments as part of Durga Puja celebrations during namaz and azan, the country's local media reports stated. Also read: Bangladesh: Yunus govt asks Hindus to pause Durga Puja music during namaz and azan "Such activities need to cease during offering namaz, and the pause will have to be followed from five minutes prior to azan," Bangladesh Home Affairs Adviser, Lieutenant General (retired) Md Jahangir Alam Chowdhury said. (With inputs from agencies)

Bangladesh reverses hilsa export ban, to send 3,000 tonnes of fish to India for Durga Puja

<p>Radical Islamic preacher Zakir Naik, an Indian fugitive, along with Sheikh Faruk Naik, will begin their Pakistan tour in October, at the invitation of the Pakistan government.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Zakir Naik, who is reportedly in Malaysia currently, will be visiting&nbsp;Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad to speak to people.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Naik has been facing charges in India for money laundering,&nbsp;terrorism, and creating religious tension through his speeches and lectures in the country, under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA).&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a post on X, Naik shared that he will be addressing the public in Karachi on October 5 and 6, followed by a visit to Lahore on October 12 and 13, and lastly in Islamabad on October 19 and 20.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">On the invitation of the Government of Pakistan<br />
Dr Zakir Naik &amp; Shaikh Fariq Naik’s Pakistan Tour 2024<br />
<br />
Public Talks:<br />
<br />
Karachi - 5th &amp; 6th Oct<br />
<br />
Lahore - 12th &amp; 13th Oct<br />
<br />
Islamabad - 19th &amp; 20th Oct<br />
<br />
Live on Peace TV <a href="https://t.co/NHCgkuJDZi">pic.twitter.com/NHCgkuJDZi</a></p>
— Dr Zakir Naik (@drzakiranaik) <a href="https://twitter.com/drzakiranaik/status/1837162860645933186?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 20, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>In 2016, Naik fled India and reportedly moved to Malaysia, and reportedly got permanent residency there. In 2019, he was also banned from delivering public speeches in Malaysia.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/radical-preacher-zakir-naik-to-return-to-malaysia-no-word-on-indias-extradition-request-yet-576580"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Radical preacher Zakir Naik to return to Malaysia, no word on India’s extradition request yet</strong></a></p>

<p>His Islamic Research Foundation was declared unlawful by the Indian government in 2022.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Malaysian PM to visit Pakistan&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim is scheduled to visit Pakistan on October 3. He will be accompanied by a high-level delegation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It has been five years since any Malaysian PM visited&nbsp;Pakistan. The former Malaysian PM visited the country in 2019, according to reports.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Naik's&nbsp;Peace TV Network&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Zakir Naik's Peace TV will start broadcasting in Bangladesh, pending approval from the interim government, as announced by the Indian fugitive last month.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Indian fugitive Zakir Naik to not be extradited to India?</strong></p>

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<p>His Peace TV Network was banned in Bangladesh, Canada, Sri Lanka and the United Kingdom. The channel was blocked in Bangladesh following the July 2016 attack on the Holy Artisan Bakery in Dhaka.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The matter further led to a probe in India and the subsequent suspension of Peace TV's in both Dhaka and New Delhi.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Radical Islamic preacher Zakir Naik, an Indian fugitive, along with Sheikh Faruk Naik, will begin their Pakistan tour in October, at the invitation of the Pakistan government.

Radical Islamic preacher Zakir Naik, an Indian fugitive, along with Sheikh Faruk Naik, will begin their Pakistan tour in October, at the invitation of the Pakistan government. Zakir Naik, who is reportedly in Malaysia currently, will be visiting Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad to speak to people. Naik has been facing charges in India for money laundering, terrorism, and creating religious tension through his speeches and lectures in the country, under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA). In a post on X, Naik shared that he will be addressing the public in Karachi on October 5 and 6, followed by a visit to Lahore on October 12 and 13, and lastly in Islamabad on October 19 and 20. On the invitation of the Government of Pakistan Dr Zakir Naik & Shaikh Fariq Naik’s Pakistan Tour 2024 Public Talks: Karachi - 5th & 6th Oct Lahore - 12th & 13th Oct Islamabad - 19th & 20th Oct Live on Peace TV pic.twitter.com/NHCgkuJDZi — Dr Zakir Naik (@drzakiranaik) September 20, 2024 × In 2016, Naik fled India and reportedly moved to Malaysia, and reportedly got permanent residency there. In 2019, he was also banned from delivering public speeches in Malaysia. Also read: Radical preacher Zakir Naik to return to Malaysia, no word on India’s extradition request yet His Islamic Research Foundation was declared unlawful by the Indian government in 2022. Malaysian PM to visit Pakistan Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim is scheduled to visit Pakistan on October 3. He will be accompanied by a high-level delegation. It has been five years since any Malaysian PM visited Pakistan. The former Malaysian PM visited the country in 2019, according to reports. Naik's Peace TV Network Zakir Naik's Peace TV will start broadcasting in Bangladesh, pending approval from the interim government, as announced by the Indian fugitive last month. Watch | Gravitas: Indian fugitive Zakir Naik to not be extradited to India? × His Peace TV Network was banned in Bangladesh, Canada, Sri Lanka and the United Kingdom. The channel was blocked in Bangladesh following the July 2016 attack on the Holy Artisan Bakery in Dhaka. The matter further led to a probe in India and the subsequent suspension of Peace TV's in both Dhaka and New Delhi. (With inputs from agencies)

Radical preacher Zakir Naik to begin Pakistan tour next month

<p>Cash-strapped Sri Lanka voted for its next president Saturday in an effective referendum on an unpopular International Monetary Fund austerity plan enacted after the island nation's unprecedented financial crisis.</p>

<p>Turnout was at nearly 70 per cent an hour before polling stations closed at 4:00 pm (1030 GMT), an election commission official said, citing provisional figures.</p>

<p>The record for voter turnout in a Sri Lankan presidential election was set in 2019 with 83.72 per cent.</p>

<p>President Ranil Wickremesinghe is fighting an uphill battle for a fresh mandate to continue belt-tightening measures that stabilised the economy and ended months of food, fuel and medicine shortages.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-votes-in-presidential-election-why-do-these-polls-matter-for-india-760631"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Sri Lanka votes in presidential election: Why do these polls matter for India?</strong></a></p>

<p>His two years in office restored calm to the streets after civil unrest spurred by the downturn in 2022 saw thousands storm the compound of his predecessor, who promptly fled the country.</p>

<p>"I've taken this country out of bankruptcy," Wickremesinghe, 75, said after casting his ballot in the morning.</p>

<p>"I will now deliver Sri Lanka a developed economy, developed social system and developed political system."</p>

<p>But Wickremesinghe's tax hikes and other measures, imposed under the terms of a $2.9 billion IMF bailout, have left millions struggling to make ends meet.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Sri Lanka elections: Sri Lankans vote in first election after 2022 economic crisis</strong></p>

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<p>"The country has been through a lot," lawyer and musician Soundarie David Rodrigo told AFP after casting her vote in Colombo.</p>

<p>"So I just don't want to see another upheaval coming soon."</p>

<p>Wickremesinghe is tipped to lose to one of two formidable challengers. One is Anura Kumara Dissanayaka, the leader of a once-marginal Marxist party tarnished by its violent past.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The party led two failed uprisings in the 1970s and 1980s that left more than 80,000 people dead, and it won less than four per cent of the vote in the previous parliamentary elections.</p>

<p>But Sri Lanka's crisis has proven an opportunity for the 55-year-old Dissanayaka, who has seen a surge of support based on his pledge to change the island's "corrupt" political culture.</p>

<p>He said at a polling station he was confident of securing the top job.</p>

<p>"After the victory, there should be no clashes, no violence," he said. "Our country needs a new political culture."</p>

<p>Fellow opposition leader Sajith Premadasa, 57, the son of a former president assassinated in 1993 during the country's decades-long civil war, is also expected to make a strong showing.</p>

<p>Premadasa has vowed to fight endemic corruption, and both he and Dissanayaka have pledged to renegotiate the terms of the IMF rescue package.</p>

<h2><strong>Three-way race&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Political analyst Kusal Perera told AFP it was difficult to predict a winner from the three-way race -- the first in the island's history.</p>

<p>"What is clear is that no candidate will surpass the 50 percent mark" needed to win outright, he said.</p>

<p>Officials would then carry out a count of second- and third-preference votes to determine the winner.</p>

<p>More than 17 million people were eligible to vote in the election, with more than 63,000 police deployed to guard polling booths and counting centres in schools and temples.</p>

<p>The government also banned the sale of liquor over the weekend and said no victory rallies or celebrations would be permitted until a week after the results were announced.</p>

<p>Counting is set to begin on Saturday evening and a result is expected on Sunday, but an official outcome could be delayed if the contest is close.</p>

<p>Schools were closed on Friday to be converted into polling stations, which were staffed by more than 200,000 public servants deployed to conduct the vote.</p>

<h2><strong>'Not out of the woods'&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Economic issues dominated the eight-week campaign, with public anger widespread over the hardships endured since the peak of the crisis two years ago.</p>

<p>Official data showed that Sri Lanka's poverty rate doubled to 25 per cent between 2021 and 2022, adding more than 2.5 million people to those already living on less than $3.65 a day.</p>

<p>Experts warn that Sri Lanka's economy is still vulnerable, with payments on the island's $46 billion foreign debt yet to resume since a 2022 government default.</p>

<p>The IMF said reforms enacted by Wickremesinghe's government were beginning to pay off, with growth slowly returning.</p>

<p>"A lot of progress has been made," the IMF's Julie Kozack told reporters in Washington last week.</p>

<p>"But the country is not out of the woods yet."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Voter Soundarie David Rodrigo agreed.</p>

<p>"We have a lot of challenges ahead so good luck to whoever comes," she told AFP.</p>

<p><em>Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.</em></p>


Cash-strapped Sri Lanka voted for its next president Saturday in an effective referendum on an unpopular International Monetary Fund austerity plan enacted after the island nation's unprecedented financial crisis.

Cash-strapped Sri Lanka voted for its next president Saturday in an effective referendum on an unpopular International Monetary Fund austerity plan enacted after the island nation's unprecedented financial crisis. Turnout was at nearly 70 per cent an hour before polling stations closed at 4:00 pm (1030 GMT), an election commission official said, citing provisional figures. The record for voter turnout in a Sri Lankan presidential election was set in 2019 with 83.72 per cent. President Ranil Wickremesinghe is fighting an uphill battle for a fresh mandate to continue belt-tightening measures that stabilised the economy and ended months of food, fuel and medicine shortages. Also read: Sri Lanka votes in presidential election: Why do these polls matter for India? His two years in office restored calm to the streets after civil unrest spurred by the downturn in 2022 saw thousands storm the compound of his predecessor, who promptly fled the country. "I've taken this country out of bankruptcy," Wickremesinghe, 75, said after casting his ballot in the morning. "I will now deliver Sri Lanka a developed economy, developed social system and developed political system." But Wickremesinghe's tax hikes and other measures, imposed under the terms of a $2.9 billion IMF bailout, have left millions struggling to make ends meet. Watch | Sri Lanka elections: Sri Lankans vote in first election after 2022 economic crisis × "The country has been through a lot," lawyer and musician Soundarie David Rodrigo told AFP after casting her vote in Colombo. "So I just don't want to see another upheaval coming soon." Wickremesinghe is tipped to lose to one of two formidable challengers. One is Anura Kumara Dissanayaka, the leader of a once-marginal Marxist party tarnished by its violent past. The party led two failed uprisings in the 1970s and 1980s that left more than 80,000 people dead, and it won less than four per cent of the vote in the previous parliamentary elections. But Sri Lanka's crisis has proven an opportunity for the 55-year-old Dissanayaka, who has seen a surge of support based on his pledge to change the island's "corrupt" political culture. He said at a polling station he was confident of securing the top job. "After the victory, there should be no clashes, no violence," he said. "Our country needs a new political culture." Fellow opposition leader Sajith Premadasa, 57, the son of a former president assassinated in 1993 during the country's decades-long civil war, is also expected to make a strong showing. Premadasa has vowed to fight endemic corruption, and both he and Dissanayaka have pledged to renegotiate the terms of the IMF rescue package. Three-way race Political analyst Kusal Perera told AFP it was difficult to predict a winner from the three-way race -- the first in the island's history. "What is clear is that no candidate will surpass the 50 percent mark" needed to win outright, he said. Officials would then carry out a count of second- and third-preference votes to determine the winner. More than 17 million people were eligible to vote in the election, with more than 63,000 police deployed to guard polling booths and counting centres in schools and temples. The government also banned the sale of liquor over the weekend and said no victory rallies or celebrations would be permitted until a week after the results were announced. Counting is set to begin on Saturday evening and a result is expected on Sunday, but an official outcome could be delayed if the contest is close. Schools were closed on Friday to be converted into polling stations, which were staffed by more than 200,000 public servants deployed to conduct the vote. 'Not out of the woods' Economic issues dominated the eight-week campaign, with public anger widespread over the hardships endured since the peak of the crisis two years ago. Official data showed that Sri Lanka's poverty rate doubled to 25 per cent between 2021 and 2022, adding more than 2.5 million people to those already living on less than $3.65 a day. Experts warn that Sri Lanka's economy is still vulnerable, with payments on the island's $46 billion foreign debt yet to resume since a 2022 government default. The IMF said reforms enacted by Wickremesinghe's government were beginning to pay off, with growth slowly returning. "A lot of progress has been made," the IMF's Julie Kozack told reporters in Washington last week. "But the country is not out of the woods yet." Voter Soundarie David Rodrigo agreed. "We have a lot of challenges ahead so good luck to whoever comes," she told AFP. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Polls close in Sri Lanka with 70 per cent voter turnout

<p>Iran unveiled a new ballistic missile and an upgraded one-way attack drone at a military parade on Saturday, state media said, amid soaring regional tensions and allegations of arming Russia.</p>

<p>Iran stands accused by Western governments of supplying both drones and missiles to Russia for use in its war with Ukraine, a charge it has repeatedly denied.</p>

<p>The solid-fuel Jihad missile was designed and manufactured by the aerospace arm of Iran's Revolutionary Guards and has an operational range of 1,000 kilometres (more than 600 miles), state news agency IRNA said.</p>

<p>The Shahed-136B drone is an upgraded version of the Shahed-136, with new features and an operational range of more than 4,000 kilometres (2,500 miles), it added.</p>

<p>New President Masoud Pezeshkian attended the annual parade in Tehran, commemorating the 1980-88 war with Saddam Hussein's Iraq.</p>

<p>"Today, our defensive and deterrent capabilities have grown so much that no demon even thinks about any aggression towards our dear Iran," he said.</p>

<p>"With unity and cohesion among Islamic countries...we can put in its place the bloodthirsty, genocidal usurper Israel, which shows no mercy to anyone, women or children, old or young."</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-strike-on-beirut-lebanon-ministry-says-at-least-31-killed-including-3-kids-760701"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Israeli strike on Beirut: Lebanon ministry says at least 31 killed including 3 kids</strong></a></p>

<p>Supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei delivered a similar tirade against Israel to delegates to an annual meeting of Muslim clerics hosted by Iran, calling on Islamic countries to "completely cut off their economic relations" with Israel and "weaken political ties."</p>

<p>"This inner strength can eliminate the Zionist regime, this malignant cancerous tumour, from the heart of the Islamic community in Palestine and get rid of US domination and coercive interference in the region," he said.</p>

<p>Middle East tensions have soared since Iran-backed Palestinian militant group Hamas attacked Israel on October 7 sparking war in Gaza and drawing in Iranian allies around the region.</p>

<p>The tensions have intensified in recent days as the focus of Israel's firepower has shifted north to the Lebanon border where its troops have been battling the Iran-backed militant group Hezbollah.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Iran says Israel Will Face "A Crushing Response From The Axis Of Resistance"</strong></p>

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<p>An Israeli air strike on Hezbollah's Beirut stronghold on Friday killed 31 people, including two of its top commanders, Lebanese authorities said, hot on the heels of deadly sabotage attacks on the group's communications earlier this week.</p>

<p>Britain, France, Germany and the United States slapped new sanctions on Iran earlier this month, alleging that it had been providing ballistic missiles for Russia's war effort in Ukraine.</p>

<p><em>Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.</em></p>


Iran unveiled a new ballistic missile and an upgraded one-way attack drone at a military parade on Saturday, state media said, amid soaring regional tensions and allegations of arming Russia.

Iran unveiled a new ballistic missile and an upgraded one-way attack drone at a military parade on Saturday, state media said, amid soaring regional tensions and allegations of arming Russia. Iran stands accused by Western governments of supplying both drones and missiles to Russia for use in its war with Ukraine, a charge it has repeatedly denied. The solid-fuel Jihad missile was designed and manufactured by the aerospace arm of Iran's Revolutionary Guards and has an operational range of 1,000 kilometres (more than 600 miles), state news agency IRNA said. The Shahed-136B drone is an upgraded version of the Shahed-136, with new features and an operational range of more than 4,000 kilometres (2,500 miles), it added. New President Masoud Pezeshkian attended the annual parade in Tehran, commemorating the 1980-88 war with Saddam Hussein's Iraq. "Today, our defensive and deterrent capabilities have grown so much that no demon even thinks about any aggression towards our dear Iran," he said. "With unity and cohesion among Islamic countries...we can put in its place the bloodthirsty, genocidal usurper Israel, which shows no mercy to anyone, women or children, old or young." Also read: Israeli strike on Beirut: Lebanon ministry says at least 31 killed including 3 kids Supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei delivered a similar tirade against Israel to delegates to an annual meeting of Muslim clerics hosted by Iran, calling on Islamic countries to "completely cut off their economic relations" with Israel and "weaken political ties." "This inner strength can eliminate the Zionist regime, this malignant cancerous tumour, from the heart of the Islamic community in Palestine and get rid of US domination and coercive interference in the region," he said. Middle East tensions have soared since Iran-backed Palestinian militant group Hamas attacked Israel on October 7 sparking war in Gaza and drawing in Iranian allies around the region. The tensions have intensified in recent days as the focus of Israel's firepower has shifted north to the Lebanon border where its troops have been battling the Iran-backed militant group Hezbollah. Watch | Iran says Israel Will Face "A Crushing Response From The Axis Of Resistance" × An Israeli air strike on Hezbollah's Beirut stronghold on Friday killed 31 people, including two of its top commanders, Lebanese authorities said, hot on the heels of deadly sabotage attacks on the group's communications earlier this week. Britain, France, Germany and the United States slapped new sanctions on Iran earlier this month, alleging that it had been providing ballistic missiles for Russia's war effort in Ukraine. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Iran unveils new missiles, one-way attack drone amid soaring West Asia tensions

<p>Amid the Tirupati laddoo row in Andhra Pradesh, Amul filed a complaint with Ahmedabad Cyber Crime Police Station on Saturday (Sep 21)&nbsp;after false reports on social media platform X claimed that the ghee used in the Tirupati temple's laddoos was supplied by the Indian dairy brand.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The complaint alleged that the misinformation was spread to damage Amul's reputation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This comes after Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu made startling claims about how the laddoos were adulterated with animal fat, when YSR Congress Party's Jagan Mohan Reddy was the CM of the Indian state.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-test-results-confirm-animal-fat-used-in-making-tirupati-laddoos-760139"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;India: Private lab test report confirms use of animal fat in making Tirupati laddoos</strong></a></p>

<p>According to Amul's complaint, certain individuals posted misleading information on social media with the motive of defaming Amul. The social media posts alleged that the 'ghee' used in Tirupati 'prasadam' was supplied by the company.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, the Gujarat Cooperative Milk Marketing Federation (GCMMF), which markets dairy products under the 'Amul' brand, denied the accusations.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Issued in Public Interest by Amul <a href="https://t.co/j7uobwDtJI">pic.twitter.com/j7uobwDtJI</a></p>
— Amul.coop (@Amul_Coop) <a href="https://twitter.com/Amul_Coop/status/1837123595270603017?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 20, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>GCMMF took to&nbsp;X and said, "We also wish to clarify that Amul ghee is made from milk at our state-of-the-art production facilities which are ISO-certified. Amul ghee is made from high-quality pure milk fat. This post is being issued to stop this misinformation campaign against Amul."</p>

<p>The accused were charged under sections 336 (4) and 196 (1) (a) of Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and provisions of the Information Technology (IT) Act.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Tirupati Laddu Row: Report Finds Adulteration in Sample, Doesn't Confirm Animal Fat</strong></p>

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<p>The managing director of the federation Jayen Mehta said that the misinformation harms 3.6 million&nbsp;dairy farmer families dependent on Amul, adding, "We never supplied the ghee to the temple. We have lodged an FIR to stop this misinformation."</p>

<p>The MD of the federation, which owns the Amul brand said that they have&nbsp;"never supplied its product to Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam (TTD)."</p>

<p>"Amul products are of top quality and pass through stringent quality checks. We urge people to stay away from such kind of disinformation," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Amid the Tirupati laddoo row in Andhra Pradesh, Amul filed a complaint with Ahmedabad Cyber Crime Police Station on Saturday (Sep 21) after false reports on social media platform X claimed that the ghee used in the Tirupati temple's laddoos was supplied by the Indian dairy brand.

Amid the Tirupati laddoo row in Andhra Pradesh, Amul filed a complaint with Ahmedabad Cyber Crime Police Station on Saturday (Sep 21) after false reports on social media platform X claimed that the ghee used in the Tirupati temple's laddoos was supplied by the Indian dairy brand. The complaint alleged that the misinformation was spread to damage Amul's reputation. This comes after Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu made startling claims about how the laddoos were adulterated with animal fat, when YSR Congress Party's Jagan Mohan Reddy was the CM of the Indian state. Also read: India: Private lab test report confirms use of animal fat in making Tirupati laddoos According to Amul's complaint, certain individuals posted misleading information on social media with the motive of defaming Amul. The social media posts alleged that the 'ghee' used in Tirupati 'prasadam' was supplied by the company. However, the Gujarat Cooperative Milk Marketing Federation (GCMMF), which markets dairy products under the 'Amul' brand, denied the accusations. Issued in Public Interest by Amul pic.twitter.com/j7uobwDtJI — Amul.coop (@Amul_Coop) September 20, 2024 × GCMMF took to X and said, "We also wish to clarify that Amul ghee is made from milk at our state-of-the-art production facilities which are ISO-certified. Amul ghee is made from high-quality pure milk fat. This post is being issued to stop this misinformation campaign against Amul." The accused were charged under sections 336 (4) and 196 (1) (a) of Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and provisions of the Information Technology (IT) Act. Watch | Tirupati Laddu Row: Report Finds Adulteration in Sample, Doesn't Confirm Animal Fat × The managing director of the federation Jayen Mehta said that the misinformation harms 3.6 million dairy farmer families dependent on Amul, adding, "We never supplied the ghee to the temple. We have lodged an FIR to stop this misinformation." The MD of the federation, which owns the Amul brand said that they have "never supplied its product to Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam (TTD)." "Amul products are of top quality and pass through stringent quality checks. We urge people to stay away from such kind of disinformation," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Tirupati laddoo row: Amul files complaint against X users for claiming that it supplied ghee to temple

<p>Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky urged his American&nbsp;counterpart&nbsp;Joe Biden to allow Ukraine&nbsp;to carry out long-range strike missiles inside Russia with US-supplied weapons and to earn “a place in history” by “strengthening Ukraine” before leaving the office in November.</p>

<p>Talking about his "victory plan", Zelensky was speaking ahead of&nbsp;his trip to the United States, where he will be meeting Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Zelensky, who will also be addressing the United Nations, said that he would present a "victory plan" to end the war.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a media briefing with the Observer in Kyiv, the Ukrainian president said his plan involves carrying out deep strikes with Western missiles inside Russia, something London and Washington have so far refused.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, Zelensky's vision for a "just peace" has not yet been made public.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-knew-about-ukraines-kursk-plans-was-preparing-for-months-report-760371"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Russia knew about Ukraine’s Kursk plans, was preparing for months: Report</strong></a></p>

<p>The United Kingdom, earlier indicated&nbsp;that they are ready to allow Ukraine to use British Storm Shadow cruise missiles. But, the White House has been sceptical about it.&nbsp;</p>

<p>UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer&nbsp;failed to resolve the issue when he held private talks with Biden last week in Washington.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Despite months of pushing the US to get their approval, Zelensky confirmed no green signal had been given.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine War: Russia warns West of nuclear response on missile supply to Kyiv</strong></p>

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<p>"Neither the US nor the UK has allowed us to use these weapons on the territory of Russia, against any targets and at any distance,” the Ukrainian president&nbsp;said.</p>

<p>Storm Shadows, the French equivalent, Scalp, and the US Atacms system have “not been provided in the numbers we need”, he added.</p>

<p>Responding to how he would persuade Biden during his meeting on Thursday, Zelensky cited the fact that the outgoing president had in the past "changed his opinions" after "difficult discussions".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Zelensky&nbsp;added, “Biden can strengthen Ukraine and make important decisions for Ukraine to become stronger and to protect its independence while he is US president. I think it is a historical mission after all.”</p>

<h2><strong>Zelensky to 'most likely' meet Trump</strong></h2>

<p>Along with Harris and&nbsp;Biden, Zelensky said he would "most likely" have a meeting with former US President Donald Trump on Thursday or Friday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Our teams are in contact. The main thing is to have time (together). I won’t look into the future, but I think it will be important for both of us,” Zelensky&nbsp;said.</p>

<p><em>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos</em></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky urged his American counterpart Joe Biden to allow Ukraine to carry out long-range strike missiles inside Russia with US-supplied weapons and to earn “a place in history” by “strengthening Ukraine” before leaving the office in November.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky urged his American counterpart Joe Biden to allow Ukraine to carry out long-range strike missiles inside Russia with US-supplied weapons and to earn “a place in history” by “strengthening Ukraine” before leaving the office in November. Talking about his "victory plan", Zelensky was speaking ahead of his trip to the United States, where he will be meeting Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris. Zelensky, who will also be addressing the United Nations, said that he would present a "victory plan" to end the war. In a media briefing with the Observer in Kyiv, the Ukrainian president said his plan involves carrying out deep strikes with Western missiles inside Russia, something London and Washington have so far refused. However, Zelensky's vision for a "just peace" has not yet been made public. Also read: Russia knew about Ukraine’s Kursk plans, was preparing for months: Report The United Kingdom, earlier indicated that they are ready to allow Ukraine to use British Storm Shadow cruise missiles. But, the White House has been sceptical about it. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer failed to resolve the issue when he held private talks with Biden last week in Washington. Despite months of pushing the US to get their approval, Zelensky confirmed no green signal had been given. Watch | Russia-Ukraine War: Russia warns West of nuclear response on missile supply to Kyiv × "Neither the US nor the UK has allowed us to use these weapons on the territory of Russia, against any targets and at any distance,” the Ukrainian president said. Storm Shadows, the French equivalent, Scalp, and the US Atacms system have “not been provided in the numbers we need”, he added. Responding to how he would persuade Biden during his meeting on Thursday, Zelensky cited the fact that the outgoing president had in the past "changed his opinions" after "difficult discussions". Zelensky added, “Biden can strengthen Ukraine and make important decisions for Ukraine to become stronger and to protect its independence while he is US president. I think it is a historical mission after all.” Zelensky to 'most likely' meet Trump Along with Harris and Biden, Zelensky said he would "most likely" have a meeting with former US President Donald Trump on Thursday or Friday. “Our teams are in contact. The main thing is to have time (together). I won’t look into the future, but I think it will be important for both of us,” Zelensky said. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos (With inputs from agencies)

Zelensky's plan to end war includes deep strikes inside Russia with US weapons

<p>Mohamed Al Fayed, the former owner of Harrods department stores, who has been accused of rape and sexual assault by over 20 women in a documentary, has now been described as a "monster enabled by a system that pervaded Harrods" by lawyers representing the alleged victims.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Mohamed Al Fayed was the owner of the luxury department store Harrods, in London, England, which sells high-end goods and services. He was also the father of Lady Diana's boyfriend Dodi Al Fayed.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Fayed was&nbsp;a 'predator'</strong></h2>

<p>One of his alleged victims said that Fayed was a "predator" who "preyed on the most vulnerable".&nbsp;</p>

<p>The lawyers representing 37 alleged victims of sexual abuse, while speaking at a press conference in London, said that he was a "monster enabled by a system that pervaded Harrods".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Barrister&nbsp;Dean Armstrong KC said the case "combines some of the most horrific elements" of those including Jimmy Savile, Jeffrey Epstein and Harvey Weinstein.</p>

<p>One of his alleged victims, Natacha, described how she was a "young, naive and totally innocent" 19-year-old when she moved to London. Natacha&nbsp;said that she believed she had been given "the chance of a lifetime" when she was hired at Harrods.&nbsp;</p>

<p>She continued saying&nbsp;that she thought it seemed "entirely innocent" when she was offered extra money and gifts to take home to her parents.</p>

<p>Describing Fayed as a "predator", Natacha said, "Unbeknownst to me, I had walked into a lion's den, a lair of cover-ups, deceit, lies, manipulation, humiliation, and gross sexual misconduct", adding that he "preyed on the most vulnerable".&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/mohamed-al-fayed-was-a-rapist-20-women-come-out-against-father-of-lady-dianas-boyfriend-dodi-al-fayed-760351"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Mohamed Al Fayed was a rapist? 20 women come out against father of Lady Diana's boyfriend Dodi Al Fayed</strong></a></p>

<p>She said she was summoned to Fayed's private apartment one night "on the pretext of a job review" before "the door was locked behind me".</p>

<p>"I saw his bedroom door partially open - there were sex toys on view," Natacha&nbsp;said. "I felt petrified. I perched myself at the very end of the sofa and then… my boss, the person I worked for, pushed himself onto me."</p>

<h2><strong>How she freed herself</strong></h2>

<p>Natacha said, that after she managed to "kick herself free", he laughed at her and told her "never to breathe a word of this to anyone", leaving her feeling "scared and sick".</p>

<p>Fayed, who died last year at the age of 94, has been accused by five women of rape, while another woman has now come forward to claim she was subjected to a "sickening" sexual assault by the billionaire.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Lesser-known facts about Princess Diana on her 25th death anniversary</strong></p>

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<p>Reportedly, most of the alleged victims were aged 19 to 24, while some were as young as 15 or 16.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The assaults took place in properties in London, Paris, St Tropez, and Abu Dhabi.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Mohamed Al Fayed, the former owner of Harrods department stores, who has been accused of rape and sexual assault by over 20 women in a documentary, has now been described as a "monster enabled by a system that pervaded Harrods" by lawyers representing the alleged victims.

Mohamed Al Fayed, the former owner of Harrods department stores, who has been accused of rape and sexual assault by over 20 women in a documentary, has now been described as a "monster enabled by a system that pervaded Harrods" by lawyers representing the alleged victims. Mohamed Al Fayed was the owner of the luxury department store Harrods, in London, England, which sells high-end goods and services. He was also the father of Lady Diana's boyfriend Dodi Al Fayed. Fayed was a 'predator' One of his alleged victims said that Fayed was a "predator" who "preyed on the most vulnerable". The lawyers representing 37 alleged victims of sexual abuse, while speaking at a press conference in London, said that he was a "monster enabled by a system that pervaded Harrods". Barrister Dean Armstrong KC said the case "combines some of the most horrific elements" of those including Jimmy Savile, Jeffrey Epstein and Harvey Weinstein. One of his alleged victims, Natacha, described how she was a "young, naive and totally innocent" 19-year-old when she moved to London. Natacha said that she believed she had been given "the chance of a lifetime" when she was hired at Harrods. She continued saying that she thought it seemed "entirely innocent" when she was offered extra money and gifts to take home to her parents. Describing Fayed as a "predator", Natacha said, "Unbeknownst to me, I had walked into a lion's den, a lair of cover-ups, deceit, lies, manipulation, humiliation, and gross sexual misconduct", adding that he "preyed on the most vulnerable". Also read: Mohamed Al Fayed was a rapist? 20 women come out against father of Lady Diana's boyfriend Dodi Al Fayed She said she was summoned to Fayed's private apartment one night "on the pretext of a job review" before "the door was locked behind me". "I saw his bedroom door partially open - there were sex toys on view," Natacha said. "I felt petrified. I perched myself at the very end of the sofa and then… my boss, the person I worked for, pushed himself onto me." How she freed herself Natacha said, that after she managed to "kick herself free", he laughed at her and told her "never to breathe a word of this to anyone", leaving her feeling "scared and sick". Fayed, who died last year at the age of 94, has been accused by five women of rape, while another woman has now come forward to claim she was subjected to a "sickening" sexual assault by the billionaire. Watch | Lesser-known facts about Princess Diana on her 25th death anniversary × Reportedly, most of the alleged victims were aged 19 to 24, while some were as young as 15 or 16. The assaults took place in properties in London, Paris, St Tropez, and Abu Dhabi. (With inputs from agencies)

Mohamed Al Fayed was 'monster enabled by system that pervaded Harrods', say victims' lawyers

<p>An Indian embassy official was found dead under mysterious circumstances inside the mission premises here, officials here said.</p>

<p>Local police and the Secret Service are currently investigating the incident that occurred two days ago, including the possibility of suicide.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-to-embark-on-3-day-us-trip-from-quad-to-un-summit-heres-what-the-schedule-looks-like-760476"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;PM Modi to embark on 3-day US trip: From Quad to UN Summit, here's what the schedule looks like</strong></a></p>

<p>“With deep regret, we wish to confirm that a member of the Embassy of India passed away on the evening of 18th September 2024. We are in touch with all relevant agencies and members of the family to ensure the swift transfer of the mortal remains to India,” the Indian Embassy said in a statement on Friday.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;India- US to sign at least two agreements</strong></p>

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<p>“Additional details regarding the deceased are not being released out of concern for the family’s privacy. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family in this time of grief,” it said, without giving any further details.</p>

<p><em>Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.</em></p>


An Indian embassy official was found dead under mysterious circumstances inside the mission premises here, officials here said. Local police and the Secret Service are currently investigating the incident that occurred two days ago, including the possibility of suicide.

An Indian embassy official was found dead under mysterious circumstances inside the mission premises here, officials here said. Local police and the Secret Service are currently investigating the incident that occurred two days ago, including the possibility of suicide. Also read: PM Modi to embark on 3-day US trip: From Quad to UN Summit, here's what the schedule looks like “With deep regret, we wish to confirm that a member of the Embassy of India passed away on the evening of 18th September 2024. We are in touch with all relevant agencies and members of the family to ensure the swift transfer of the mortal remains to India,” the Indian Embassy said in a statement on Friday. Watch | India- US to sign at least two agreements × “Additional details regarding the deceased are not being released out of concern for the family’s privacy. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family in this time of grief,” it said, without giving any further details. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Indian embassy official found dead at mission premises in US under mysterious circumstances

<p>Hezbollah's Operations Division head Ibrahim Aqil has been killed in an Israeli strike on Friday (Sep 20) after it attacked Beirut's southern suburbs, reported news agency AFP citing&nbsp;a source close to the Lebanon-based militant group.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The group's elite Radwan unit chief was killed in what Israel called a "targeted strike".&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Israeli attack hit near key Hezbollah facilities, the security sources in Lebanon told the news agency.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Who was Ibrahim Aqil?&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Aqil, also known as Tahsin, "serves on Hezbollah’s highest military body, the Jihad Council," according to the&nbsp;US Department of State's Rewards for Justice Program.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He was the armed forces' second-in-command after Fuad Shukr, who was killed in an Israeli strike in July, also in Hezbollah's southern Beirut stronghold.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BREAKING?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BREAKING</a> | Israel launches deadly air strikes on Hezbollah stronghold in South Beirut; civilian casualties feared <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IsraelHezbollahConflict?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IsraelHezbollahConflict</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Lebanon?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Lebanon</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Beirut?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Beirut</a> <a href="https://t.co/4DlY1lOFHM">pic.twitter.com/4DlY1lOFHM</a></p>
— WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1837132497907249361?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 20, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Aqil has also been wanted by the United States for his role in the 1983 bombing of a US Marines barracks in Beirut, and in directing the taking of American and German hostages in Lebanon in the 1980s.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Hezbollah's local media al-Manar TV reported that the southern suburbs, known as Dahiyeh, had been subjected to an act of aggression, killing one and injuring 14 people.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said that they conducted a targeted strike in Beirut.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The IDF (Israel Defense Forces) conducted a targeted strike in Beirut. At this moment, there are no changes in the Home Front Command defensive guidelines," the Israeli military said without&nbsp;providing any further&nbsp;details.</p>

<h2><strong>How was Hezbollah deputy leader Fuad Shukr killed?&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Hezbollah deputy leader Fuad Shukr was lured to his seventh-floor residence from his second-floor office in Beirut in July this year, where he was killed in an airstrike.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Israeli strike on July 30 killed Shukr, his wife, two other women and two children. Hezbollah was reportedly working with Iran to investigate the security breach that led to the airstrike, killing one of its important assets.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Israel launches deadly air strikes on Hezbollah stronghold in South Beirut; Five people, including children, killed and 17 wounded<br />
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.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Lebanon?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Lebanon</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Beirut?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Beirut</a> <a href="https://t.co/QjU1xgjvJr">pic.twitter.com/QjU1xgjvJr</a></p>
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<p>The tensions in West Asia have risen after the pagers and walkie-talkies attack across Lebanon, earlier this week.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>Disclaimer: WION takes the utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq, and non-state actors like the Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos.</em></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


Hezbollah's Operations Division head Ibrahim Aqil has been killed in an Israeli strike on Friday (Sep 20) after it attacked Beirut's southern suburbs, reported news agency AFP citing a source close to the Lebanon-based militant group.

Hezbollah's Operations Division head Ibrahim Aqil has been killed in an Israeli strike on Friday (Sep 20) after it attacked Beirut's southern suburbs, reported news agency AFP citing a source close to the Lebanon-based militant group. The group's elite Radwan unit chief was killed in what Israel called a "targeted strike". The Israeli attack hit near key Hezbollah facilities, the security sources in Lebanon told the news agency. Who was Ibrahim Aqil? Aqil, also known as Tahsin, "serves on Hezbollah’s highest military body, the Jihad Council," according to the US Department of State's Rewards for Justice Program. He was the armed forces' second-in-command after Fuad Shukr, who was killed in an Israeli strike in July, also in Hezbollah's southern Beirut stronghold. #BREAKING | Israel launches deadly air strikes on Hezbollah stronghold in South Beirut; civilian casualties feared #IsraelHezbollahConflict #Lebanon #Beirut pic.twitter.com/4DlY1lOFHM — WION (@WIONews) September 20, 2024 × Aqil has also been wanted by the United States for his role in the 1983 bombing of a US Marines barracks in Beirut, and in directing the taking of American and German hostages in Lebanon in the 1980s. Hezbollah's local media al-Manar TV reported that the southern suburbs, known as Dahiyeh, had been subjected to an act of aggression, killing one and injuring 14 people. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said that they conducted a targeted strike in Beirut. "The IDF (Israel Defense Forces) conducted a targeted strike in Beirut. At this moment, there are no changes in the Home Front Command defensive guidelines," the Israeli military said without providing any further details. How was Hezbollah deputy leader Fuad Shukr killed? Hezbollah deputy leader Fuad Shukr was lured to his seventh-floor residence from his second-floor office in Beirut in July this year, where he was killed in an airstrike. The Israeli strike on July 30 killed Shukr, his wife, two other women and two children. Hezbollah was reportedly working with Iran to investigate the security breach that led to the airstrike, killing one of its important assets. Israel launches deadly air strikes on Hezbollah stronghold in South Beirut; Five people, including children, killed and 17 wounded . . .#Lebanon #Beirut pic.twitter.com/QjU1xgjvJr — WION (@WIONews) September 20, 2024 × The tensions in West Asia have risen after the pagers and walkie-talkies attack across Lebanon, earlier this week. Disclaimer: WION takes the utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq, and non-state actors like the Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Senior Hezbollah commander Ibrahim Aqil killed in Israeli strike in Beirut

<p>In one of the deadliest attacks across Lebanon on Tuesday and Wednesday, Israel had established a shell company in Hungary, posing as an international pager producer, the New York Times reported citing&nbsp;intelligence officers.</p>

<p>The company manufactured ordinary pagers for various clients, however, the devices sent to Lebanon contained explosive batteries.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Tuesday's blasts reportedly&nbsp;claimed the lives of at least nine people, including an eight-year-old girl, and injured nearly 3,000 others, when the pagers blasted&nbsp;simultaneously across Lebanon.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The coordinated blasts are said to be the&nbsp;result&nbsp;of a months-long operation by Israel targeting members of the Iran-backed Hezbollah militant group.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>5000 pagers imported &nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Lebanese security sources told Reuters that Israel's Mossad spy agency had planted explosives in 5000 pagers imported by Hezbollah from Taiwan.</p>

<p>The pagers had the labels of Taiwan-based Gold Apollo, however, the Taiwanese company denied manufacturing the explosive devices.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/heres-what-we-know-about-budapest-based-company-linked-to-hezbollah-pagers-760436"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Here's what we know about Budapest-based company linked to Hezbollah pagers</strong></a></p>

<p>Instead, they alleged that the pagers were produced by BAC Consulting KFT, a European company based in Budapest, Hungary, which had been granted the right to use Gold Apollo's brand name.</p>

<p>According to the New York Times report, Israel had set up at least two additional shell companies to conceal the identities of intelligence officers involved in creating the pagers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The devices were being sent to Lebanon from 2021 in small numbers, and the orders increased with time.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Israel unleashes heavy strikes on Lebanon | Nasrallah vows retaliation against Israel</strong></p>

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<p>Before the pagers attack happened, Israel reportedly&nbsp;informed US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin that a military operation would take place in Lebanon, and did not provide specific details.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah had previously&nbsp;warned members not to carry cell phones, as Israel could use them to track the group's movements.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>Disclaimer: WION takes the utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq, and non-state actors like the Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos.</em></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


In one of the deadliest attacks across Lebanon on Tuesday and Wednesday, Israel had established a shell company in Hungary, posing as an international pager producer, the New York Times reported citing intelligence officers.

In one of the deadliest attacks across Lebanon on Tuesday and Wednesday, Israel had established a shell company in Hungary, posing as an international pager producer, the New York Times reported citing intelligence officers. The company manufactured ordinary pagers for various clients, however, the devices sent to Lebanon contained explosive batteries. Tuesday's blasts reportedly claimed the lives of at least nine people, including an eight-year-old girl, and injured nearly 3,000 others, when the pagers blasted simultaneously across Lebanon. The coordinated blasts are said to be the result of a months-long operation by Israel targeting members of the Iran-backed Hezbollah militant group. 5000 pagers imported Lebanese security sources told Reuters that Israel's Mossad spy agency had planted explosives in 5000 pagers imported by Hezbollah from Taiwan. The pagers had the labels of Taiwan-based Gold Apollo, however, the Taiwanese company denied manufacturing the explosive devices. Also read: Here's what we know about Budapest-based company linked to Hezbollah pagers Instead, they alleged that the pagers were produced by BAC Consulting KFT, a European company based in Budapest, Hungary, which had been granted the right to use Gold Apollo's brand name. According to the New York Times report, Israel had set up at least two additional shell companies to conceal the identities of intelligence officers involved in creating the pagers. The devices were being sent to Lebanon from 2021 in small numbers, and the orders increased with time. Watch | Israel unleashes heavy strikes on Lebanon | Nasrallah vows retaliation against Israel × Before the pagers attack happened, Israel reportedly informed US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin that a military operation would take place in Lebanon, and did not provide specific details. Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah had previously warned members not to carry cell phones, as Israel could use them to track the group's movements. Disclaimer: WION takes the utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq, and non-state actors like the Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

How Israel used shell companies to execute pagers attack across Lebanon

<p>Hezbollah's Operations Division head Ibrahim Aqil has been killed in an Israeli airstrike in Beirut's southern suburbs on Friday, according to a source close to the Lebanon-based militant group. The attack hit near key Hezbollah facilities, the security sources in Lebanon told the news agency AFP.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, in India, amid the Tirupati Prasadam row, former Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Jagan Mohan Reddy called the lab report which claimed that animal fat, including beef tallow, was used to make Tirupati laddoos - given to devotees as an offering, during his tenure, false.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Click on the headlines to read more:</strong></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/senior-hezbollah-commander-ibrahim-aqil-killed-in-israeli-strike-in-beirut-760479"><strong>Senior Hezbollah commander Ibrahim Aqil killed in Israeli strike in Beirut</strong></a></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/09/20/455865-untitled-design-2.jpg?imwidth=400" /></p>

<p>Hezbollah's Operations Division head Ibrahim Aqil has been killed in an Israeli strike on Friday (Sep 20) after it attacked Beirut's southern suburbs, reported news agency AFP citing&nbsp;a source close to the Lebanon-based militant group.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tirupati-prasadam-row-ex-andhra-cm-jagan-reddy-says-lab-report-false-blames-naidu-of-playing-faith-politics-760443"><strong>Tirupati Prasadam row: Ex-Andhra CM Jagan Reddy says lab report false, blames Naidu for playing faith politics</strong></a></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/07/12/443170-untitled-design-4.png?imwidth=400" /></p>

<p>Former Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Jagan Mohan Reddy has responded to the allegations that during&nbsp;his tenure, animal fat, including beef tallow was used to make&nbsp;Tirupati laddoos - given to devotees as an offering.&nbsp;Reddy called the lab report false and accused Telugu Desam Party&nbsp;(TDP) leader and incumbent CM Chandrababu Naidu of using "faith for politics".</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-jews-would-be-to-blame-if-he-lost-election-reiterates-israel-would-cease-to-exist-if-enemy-wins-760415"><strong>&nbsp;Trump says Jews would be to blame if he lost election, reiterates Israel may cease to exist if 'enemy' wins</strong></a></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/09/19/455637-trump-10.png?imwidth=400" /></p>

<p>Former United States President Donald Trump has claimed that if he were to lose the presidential election in November, it would be due to Jewish Americans not voting for him en masse.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-bought-iranian-jammers-to-block-news-channels-critical-of-regimes-terrible-ways-760396"><strong>Taliban bought Iranian jammers to block news channels critical of regime's terrible ways</strong></a></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/08/12/448930-new-wion-2024-08-12t155805583.png?imwidth=400" /></p>

<p>Further culling&nbsp;the freedom and choices of its citizens, the Taliban have allegedly purchased jammers from Iran to shut down independent television channels reporting on the regime's terrible ways, from reaching the masses.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lebanese-envoy-warns-israeli-ground-incursion-will-lead-to-doomsday-regional-war-760406"><strong>Lebanese envoy warns Israeli ground incursion will lead to 'doomsday' regional war</strong></a></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/09/20/455824-untitled-design.jpg?imwidth=400" /></p>

<p>Lebanon's Ambassador to the United Kingdom warned that an Israeli ground incursion would lead to a "doomsday" regional war.&nbsp;Lebanese envoy Rami Mortada told The Times of Israel that Lebanon's armed forces will not stand by, like they have been so far, if Israel launches a major assault on the ground or from the air.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/heres-what-we-know-about-budapest-based-company-linked-to-hezbollah-pagers-760436"><strong>Here's what we know about Budapest-based company linked to Hezbollah pagers</strong></a></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/09/17/455249-wion-web-team-bugs-and-banners-22.jpg?imwidth=400" /></p>

<p>After Taiwanese firm&nbsp;Gold Apollo claimed it had not manufactured the pagers that exploded and killed 12 people, including two children, the focus has now shifted towards a Hungary-based company called&nbsp;BAC Consulting which allegedly had the license to develop the devices.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-to-embark-on-3-day-us-trip-from-quad-to-un-summit-heres-what-the-schedule-looks-like-760476"><strong>PM Modi to embark on 3-day US trip: From Quad to UN Summit, here's what the schedule looks like</strong></a></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/08/27/451623-modibiden2.jpg?imwidth=400" /></p>

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be embarking on a three-day trip to the US from Saturday (Sep 21)&nbsp;to Monday (Sep 23)&nbsp;where he will attend the fourth annual Quad Leaders' Summit, hosted by United States President Joe Biden in his home residence of Wilmington, Delaware.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-pm-netanyahu-to-delay-departure-for-us-amid-security-situation-in-north-760491"><strong>Israeli PM Netanyahu to delay departure for US amid security situation in north</strong></a></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/09/03/452750-2024-08-25t060031z1lynxmpek7o012rtroptp4israel-palestinians-usa-netanyahu.JPG?imwidth=400" /></p>

<p>Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will delay his departure to New York by a day due to the security situation in the country's north, an official in his office told AFP on Friday.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2025-ricky-ponting-reveals-why-he-chose-punjab-kings-over-other-teams-details-on-essentials-760482"><strong>IPL 2025: Ricky Ponting reveals why he chose Punjab Kings over other teams; details on essentials</strong></a></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/09/20/455867-ipl-2025-ricky-ponting-reveals-why-he-chose-punjab-kings-over-other-teams.jpg?imwidth=400" /></p>

<p>Newly-appointed Punjab Kings head coach Ricky Ponting revealed what attracted him to accept their offer despite interests from several teams ahead of IPL 2025. Ponting, who previously coached Delhi Capitals for seven seasons, detailed what he told his new team owners and shared his thoughts on retention plans as the mega auction date nears.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-transformers-one-director-josh-cooley-on-why-he-cast-keegan-michael-key-as-bumblebee-760428"><strong>Transformers One director Josh Cooley on why he cast Keegan-Michael Key as Bumblebee</strong></a></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/09/20/455835-horizons-2024-09-20t170414539.jpg?imwidth=400" /></p>

<p><em>Transformers One,</em>&nbsp;the untold story of Optimus Prime and Megatron is finally in India. The film was released today&nbsp;(September 20) in theatres in India and we talked&nbsp;to the director of the film, Josh Cooley who spoke about Keegan-Michael Key who voiced the character of Bumblebee and gave him an interesting new twist in the origins film.&nbsp;</p>


Hezbollah's Operations Division head Ibrahim Aqil has been killed in an Israeli airstrike in Beirut's southern suburbs on Friday, according to a source close to the Lebanon-based militant group.

Hezbollah's Operations Division head Ibrahim Aqil has been killed in an Israeli airstrike in Beirut's southern suburbs on Friday, according to a source close to the Lebanon-based militant group. The attack hit near key Hezbollah facilities, the security sources in Lebanon told the news agency AFP. Meanwhile, in India, amid the Tirupati Prasadam row, former Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Jagan Mohan Reddy called the lab report which claimed that animal fat, including beef tallow, was used to make Tirupati laddoos - given to devotees as an offering, during his tenure, false. Click on the headlines to read more: Senior Hezbollah commander Ibrahim Aqil killed in Israeli strike in Beirut Hezbollah's Operations Division head Ibrahim Aqil has been killed in an Israeli strike on Friday (Sep 20) after it attacked Beirut's southern suburbs, reported news agency AFP citing a source close to the Lebanon-based militant group. Tirupati Prasadam row: Ex-Andhra CM Jagan Reddy says lab report false, blames Naidu for playing faith politics Former Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Jagan Mohan Reddy has responded to the allegations that during his tenure, animal fat, including beef tallow was used to make Tirupati laddoos - given to devotees as an offering. Reddy called the lab report false and accused Telugu Desam Party (TDP) leader and incumbent CM Chandrababu Naidu of using "faith for politics". Trump says Jews would be to blame if he lost election, reiterates Israel may cease to exist if 'enemy' wins Former United States President Donald Trump has claimed that if he were to lose the presidential election in November, it would be due to Jewish Americans not voting for him en masse. Taliban bought Iranian jammers to block news channels critical of regime's terrible ways Further culling the freedom and choices of its citizens, the Taliban have allegedly purchased jammers from Iran to shut down independent television channels reporting on the regime's terrible ways, from reaching the masses. Lebanese envoy warns Israeli ground incursion will lead to 'doomsday' regional war Lebanon's Ambassador to the United Kingdom warned that an Israeli ground incursion would lead to a "doomsday" regional war. Lebanese envoy Rami Mortada told The Times of Israel that Lebanon's armed forces will not stand by, like they have been so far, if Israel launches a major assault on the ground or from the air. Here's what we know about Budapest-based company linked to Hezbollah pagers After Taiwanese firm Gold Apollo claimed it had not manufactured the pagers that exploded and killed 12 people, including two children, the focus has now shifted towards a Hungary-based company called BAC Consulting which allegedly had the license to develop the devices. PM Modi to embark on 3-day US trip: From Quad to UN Summit, here's what the schedule looks like Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be embarking on a three-day trip to the US from Saturday (Sep 21) to Monday (Sep 23) where he will attend the fourth annual Quad Leaders' Summit, hosted by United States President Joe Biden in his home residence of Wilmington, Delaware. Israeli PM Netanyahu to delay departure for US amid security situation in north Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will delay his departure to New York by a day due to the security situation in the country's north, an official in his office told AFP on Friday. IPL 2025: Ricky Ponting reveals why he chose Punjab Kings over other teams; details on essentials Newly-appointed Punjab Kings head coach Ricky Ponting revealed what attracted him to accept their offer despite interests from several teams ahead of IPL 2025. Ponting, who previously coached Delhi Capitals for seven seasons, detailed what he told his new team owners and shared his thoughts on retention plans as the mega auction date nears. Transformers One director Josh Cooley on why he cast Keegan-Michael Key as Bumblebee Transformers One, the untold story of Optimus Prime and Megatron is finally in India. The film was released today (September 20) in theatres in India and we talked to the director of the film, Josh Cooley who spoke about Keegan-Michael Key who voiced the character of Bumblebee and gave him an interesting new twist in the origins film.

Top 10 world news: Senior Hezbollah commander killed in Israeli strike; Tirupati 'laddoo' row; and more

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