Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has accused the US State Department is trying to "destabilise India", adding that the US&nbsp;"deep state" elements are "targeting PM Modi".&nbsp;

Sambit Patra, the spokesperson of the ruling BJP, said that the US deep state has been involved with a group of journalists and with the opposition leader Rahul Gandhi to pull down India's growth story with unsubstantiated allegations and malicious reports without a "shred of evidence".&nbsp;

He further stressed that all of this is in conjunction with the US State Department.&nbsp;

During a press conference, he said, "It has always been the US State Department behind this agenda."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/adani-bribery-case-he-should-be-arrested-rahul-gandhi-other-indian-leaders-react-777940">Also read:&nbsp;Adani bribery case | He should be arrested: Rahul Gandhi, other Indian leaders react</a>

This comes as a surprise as India and the US have been sharing a strong relationship in the last two decades.&nbsp;

Patra also said that the opposition Congress has used the Organized Crime and Corruption Reporting Project (OCCRP)'s articles that "singularly focused" on the Adani group and its alleged proximity with the Indian government to undermine PM Modi.&nbsp;

Last month, Gautam Adani, the group's chairman, and seven others were indicted in the United States for being part of a $265 billion scheme to bribe Indian officials.&nbsp;

The OCCRP's articles have further accused state-sponsored hackers in India of using Israeli-made Pegasus spyware to target government critics.

Watch |&nbsp;India On Adani Probe In US: 'No Prior Info On Adani US Charges'

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The OCCRP was funded by the US Agency for International Department and "other deep state figures" like George Soros, the BJP spokesperson said citing a French media report.&nbsp;

"The Deep State had a clear objective to destabilise India by targeting Prime Minister Modi," he said, adding, "It has always been the US State Department behind this agenda...OCCRP has served as a media tool for carrying out a deep state agenda."

"A French investigative media group has revealed that 50 per cent of OCCRP's funding comes directly from the US State Department," Patra said.

The BJP spokesperson also accused Rahul Gandhi of being a "traitor of the highest order", saying that "some agencies of America" and billionaire George Soros make a "dangerous triangle trying to destabilise India".

The US State Department, US AID, billionaire financier-philanthropist George Soros, and the Congress party are yet to respond to these allegations.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, OCCRP issued a statement, saying, "The US government, while providing some funding to OCCRP, has no say in our editorial processes and no control over our reporting."

(With inputs from agencies)

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has accused the US State Department is trying to "destabilise India", adding that the US "deep state" elements are "targeting PM Modi".

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has accused the US State Department is trying to "destabilise India", adding that the US "deep state" elements are "targeting PM Modi". Sambit Patra, the spokesperson of the ruling BJP, said that the US deep state has been involved with a group of journalists and with the opposition leader Rahul Gandhi to pull down India's growth story with unsubstantiated allegations and malicious reports without a "shred of evidence". He further stressed that all of this is in conjunction with the US State Department. During a press conference, he said, "It has always been the US State Department behind this agenda." Also read: Adani bribery case | He should be arrested: Rahul Gandhi, other Indian leaders react This comes as a surprise as India and the US have been sharing a strong relationship in the last two decades. Patra also said that the opposition Congress has used the Organized Crime and Corruption Reporting Project (OCCRP)'s articles that "singularly focused" on the Adani group and its alleged proximity with the Indian government to undermine PM Modi. Last month, Gautam Adani, the group's chairman, and seven others were indicted in the United States for being part of a $265 billion scheme to bribe Indian officials. The OCCRP's articles have further accused state-sponsored hackers in India of using Israeli-made Pegasus spyware to target government critics. Watch | India On Adani Probe In US: 'No Prior Info On Adani US Charges' × The OCCRP was funded by the US Agency for International Department and "other deep state figures" like George Soros, the BJP spokesperson said citing a French media report. "The Deep State had a clear objective to destabilise India by targeting Prime Minister Modi," he said, adding, "It has always been the US State Department behind this agenda...OCCRP has served as a media tool for carrying out a deep state agenda." "A French investigative media group has revealed that 50 per cent of OCCRP's funding comes directly from the US State Department," Patra said. The BJP spokesperson also accused Rahul Gandhi of being a "traitor of the highest order", saying that "some agencies of America" and billionaire George Soros make a "dangerous triangle trying to destabilise India". The US State Department, US AID, billionaire financier-philanthropist George Soros, and the Congress party are yet to respond to these allegations. Meanwhile, OCCRP issued a statement, saying, "The US government, while providing some funding to OCCRP, has no say in our editorial processes and no control over our reporting." (With inputs from agencies)

BJP accuses US 'deep state' elements for targeting PM Modi, says Washington trying to 'destabilise India'

Billionaire Elon Musk spent a staggering $250 million on United States President-elect Donald Trump's campaign through donations, to make him win the 2024 US presidential election, according to new campaign finance reports.&nbsp;

Musk spent more than $20 million into a mysterious super PAC and gave three separate cheques for $25 million each in the final weeks of the race.

Musk financed RBG PAC, according to the report the group filed Thursday (Dec 5) night with the Federal Election Commission.&nbsp;

The super PAC launched advertisements asserting that Trump did not support a federal abortion ban.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-and-donald-trump-is-the-honeymoon-over-already-body-language-changes-raise-eyebrows-777950">Also read:&nbsp;Elon Musk and Donald Trump - Is the honeymoon over already? Body language changes raise eyebrows</a>

However, it did not reveal its donors before the presidential elections.&nbsp;

All the money they got came from a single donation from Elon Musk Revocable Trust in Austin, Texas. RBG PAC, moreover, spent almost all of that money on digital ads, mailers and text messages, according to the report.&nbsp;

Musk also paid America PAC, a super PAC that reportedly spent $157 million, supporting Trump in the presidential race.&nbsp;

According to America PAC’s latest campaign finance report, Musk donated $238 million to the group throughout the election campaigns, including in-kind contributions.&nbsp;

Additionally, $120 million of that came during the final weeks of the election.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;US: Elon Musk brings Donald Trump's Government Efficiency Push To Capitol Hill

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The America PAC, according to the federal disclosures, spent a large sum on canvassing, text message-based get-out-the-vote efforts, printing and postage, and digital advertising.&nbsp;

It also included a controversial cash giveaway and gave $1 million each day to someone who signed the group's conservative-leaning petition.

However, PAC's campaign finance report listed each of the $1 million prizes as payments for a "spokesperson consultant".&nbsp;

The billionaire also gave $3 million to the MAHA Alliance, a super PAC, affiliated with Robert F Kennedy's "Make America Healthy Again" push.

(With inputs from agencies)

Billionaire Elon Musk spent a staggering $250 million on United States President-elect Donald Trump's campaign through donations, to make him win the 2024 US presidential election, according to new campaign finance reports.

Billionaire Elon Musk spent a staggering $250 million on United States President-elect Donald Trump's campaign through donations, to make him win the 2024 US presidential election, according to new campaign finance reports. Musk spent more than $20 million into a mysterious super PAC and gave three separate cheques for $25 million each in the final weeks of the race. Musk financed RBG PAC, according to the report the group filed Thursday (Dec 5) night with the Federal Election Commission. The super PAC launched advertisements asserting that Trump did not support a federal abortion ban. Also read: Elon Musk and Donald Trump - Is the honeymoon over already? Body language changes raise eyebrows However, it did not reveal its donors before the presidential elections. All the money they got came from a single donation from Elon Musk Revocable Trust in Austin, Texas. RBG PAC, moreover, spent almost all of that money on digital ads, mailers and text messages, according to the report. Musk also paid America PAC, a super PAC that reportedly spent $157 million, supporting Trump in the presidential race. According to America PAC’s latest campaign finance report, Musk donated $238 million to the group throughout the election campaigns, including in-kind contributions. Additionally, $120 million of that came during the final weeks of the election. Watch | US: Elon Musk brings Donald Trump's Government Efficiency Push To Capitol Hill × The America PAC, according to the federal disclosures, spent a large sum on canvassing, text message-based get-out-the-vote efforts, printing and postage, and digital advertising. It also included a controversial cash giveaway and gave $1 million each day to someone who signed the group's conservative-leaning petition. However, PAC's campaign finance report listed each of the $1 million prizes as payments for a "spokesperson consultant". The billionaire also gave $3 million to the MAHA Alliance, a super PAC, affiliated with Robert F Kennedy's "Make America Healthy Again" push. (With inputs from agencies)

Elon Musk spent over $250 million supporting Trump's presidential campaign

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) accused the US State Department is trying to "destablise India" and said the United States "deep state" elements are "targeting PM Modi". In other news,&nbsp;Israel’s President Isaac Herzog held a conversation with billionaire Elon Musk, saying that the issue of Israeli hostages remains a priority for the incoming Donald Trump administration.&nbsp;

Click on the headlines to read more

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-accuses-us-deep-state-elements-for-targeting-pm-modi-says-washington-trying-to-destabilise-india-782118">BJP accuses US 'deep state' elements for targeting PM Modi, says Washington trying to 'destabilise India'</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/12/06/469945-untitled-design-10.jpg?imwidth=400" />

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) accused the US State Department is trying to "destablise India" and said the United States "deep state" elements are "targeting PM Modi".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israels-president-herzog-seeks-elon-musks-help-to-keep-hostage-release-efforts-on-trumps-agenda-report-782111">Israel's President Herzog seeks Elon Musk’s help to keep hostage release efforts on Trump’s agenda: Report</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/11/22/467411-untitled-5.png?imwidth=400" />

Israel’s President Isaac Herzog recently held a conversation with Elon Musk, reportedly aiming to ensure that the issue of Israeli hostages remains a priority for the incoming Trump administration, according to a report by the Financial Times.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/exposes-duplicity-india-slams-pakistan-demands-action-against-pulwama-attack-mastermind-masood-azhar-782083">'Exposes duplicity,' India slams Pakistan, demands action against Pulwama attack mastermind Masood Azhar</a>

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India on Friday (Dec 6) called on Pakistan to take decisive action against Masood Azhar, the mastermind of the 2001 Indian Parliament attack and the Pulwama attack, after reports emerged of him addressing a gathering for the first time in two decades. In the speech, Azhar vowed to renew jihadist operations targeting India and Israel to establish a global Islamic order.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/dont-want-confrontation-with-delhi-chalo-march-suspended-farmers-to-hold-talks-with-centre-tomorrow-782058">Don't want confrontation...: With 'Delhi Chalo' march suspended, farmers to hold talks with Centre tomorrow</a>

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Protesting farmers in India who have suspended their "Delhi Chalo" (Let's go to Delhi) march for now, said on Friday (Dec 6) that they would be holding talks with the central government on Saturday.&nbsp;

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Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Friday (Dec 6) condemned the arson of a synagogue in Australia's Melbourne, saying the incident could not be separated from the anti-Israel sentiment emanating from the Australian government.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-elect-trump-picks-rodney-scott-caleb-vitello-to-carry-through-immigration-crackdown-782065">US President-elect Trump picks Rodney Scott, Caleb Vitello to carry out immigration crackdown</a>

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United States President-elect Donald Trump on Thursday (Dec 5) night announced two new appointments to handle immigration crackdown. Trump nominated Rodney Scott as commissioner of Customs and Border Protection, and Caleb Vitello as acting director of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/macron-scrambles-to-form-government-of-general-interest-after-no-confidence-vote-ousts-barnier-782030">France: Macron scrambles to form ‘government of general interest’ after no-confidence vote ousts Barnier</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/03/26/420844-succession-2024-03-26t023445682.jpg?imwidth=400" />

French President Emmanuel Macron is set to meet political leaders from various parties on Friday (Dec 6) morning in a bid to establish a new “government of general interest” following the ousting of Prime Minister Michel Barnier through a no-confidence vote.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-foreign-secretary-vikram-misri-to-visit-bangladesh-on-dec-9-amid-rising-attacks-on-hindus-782077">Indian foreign secretary Vikram Misri to visit Bangladesh on Dec 9 amid rising attacks on Hindus</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/06/28/440539-untitled-design-2.png?imwidth=400" />

Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri will make a visit to Bangladesh on December 9 and meet his counterpart there, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said on Friday.

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<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/12/06/469947-i-won-fairly-jose-mourinho-to-pep-guardiola-over-pl-trophies-won-remark.jpg?imwidth=400" />

World-renowned football manager Jose Mourinho has hit back at Manchester City coach Pep Guardiola over his ‘he won three, I won six’ Premier League titles remark following City's away loss to Liverpool. Mourinho, who managed several clubs in English top-flight football, including Chelsea (multiple stints), Manchester United and Spurs, said he won PL titles ‘fairly’, poking Pep’s City, who is facing 115 charges for allegedly breaching the English FA’S financial fair play rules.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/pushpa-2-allu-arjuns-film-takes-box-office-by-storm-earns-1751-crore-782055">Pushpa 2: Allu Arjun's film takes box office by storm, earns Rs 175.1 crore</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/04/07/343918-your-paragraph-text-2023-04-07t192100368.jpg?imwidth=400" />

Allu Arjun's&nbsp;Pushpa 2&nbsp;is taking the box office by storm across the nation. After the phenomenal box office performance of the first part, the euphoria for part 2 was quite evident.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) accused the US State Department is trying to "destablise India" and said the United States "deep state" elements are "targeting PM Modi".

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) accused the US State Department is trying to "destablise India" and said the United States "deep state" elements are "targeting PM Modi". In other news, Israel’s President Isaac Herzog held a conversation with billionaire Elon Musk, saying that the issue of Israeli hostages remains a priority for the incoming Donald Trump administration. Click on the headlines to read more BJP accuses US 'deep state' elements for targeting PM Modi, says Washington trying to 'destabilise India' Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) accused the US State Department is trying to "destablise India" and said the United States "deep state" elements are "targeting PM Modi". Israel's President Herzog seeks Elon Musk’s help to keep hostage release efforts on Trump’s agenda: Report Israel’s President Isaac Herzog recently held a conversation with Elon Musk, reportedly aiming to ensure that the issue of Israeli hostages remains a priority for the incoming Trump administration, according to a report by the Financial Times. 'Exposes duplicity,' India slams Pakistan, demands action against Pulwama attack mastermind Masood Azhar India on Friday (Dec 6) called on Pakistan to take decisive action against Masood Azhar, the mastermind of the 2001 Indian Parliament attack and the Pulwama attack, after reports emerged of him addressing a gathering for the first time in two decades. In the speech, Azhar vowed to renew jihadist operations targeting India and Israel to establish a global Islamic order. Don't want confrontation...: With 'Delhi Chalo' march suspended, farmers to hold talks with Centre tomorrow Protesting farmers in India who have suspended their "Delhi Chalo" (Let's go to Delhi) march for now, said on Friday (Dec 6) that they would be holding talks with the central government on Saturday. Australia synagogue arson: 'Heinous act can't be separated from anti-Israel sentiment,' says Netanyahu Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Friday (Dec 6) condemned the arson of a synagogue in Australia's Melbourne, saying the incident could not be separated from the anti-Israel sentiment emanating from the Australian government. US President-elect Trump picks Rodney Scott, Caleb Vitello to carry out immigration crackdown United States President-elect Donald Trump on Thursday (Dec 5) night announced two new appointments to handle immigration crackdown. Trump nominated Rodney Scott as commissioner of Customs and Border Protection, and Caleb Vitello as acting director of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). France: Macron scrambles to form ‘government of general interest’ after no-confidence vote ousts Barnier French President Emmanuel Macron is set to meet political leaders from various parties on Friday (Dec 6) morning in a bid to establish a new “government of general interest” following the ousting of Prime Minister Michel Barnier through a no-confidence vote. Indian foreign secretary Vikram Misri to visit Bangladesh on Dec 9 amid rising attacks on Hindus Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri will make a visit to Bangladesh on December 9 and meet his counterpart there, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said on Friday. ‘I won fairly’ – Jose Mourinho to Pep Guardiola over ‘Premier League trophies won’ remark World-renowned football manager Jose Mourinho has hit back at Manchester City coach Pep Guardiola over his ‘he won three, I won six’ Premier League titles remark following City's away loss to Liverpool. Mourinho, who managed several clubs in English top-flight football, including Chelsea (multiple stints), Manchester United and Spurs, said he won PL titles ‘fairly’, poking Pep’s City, who is facing 115 charges for allegedly breaching the English FA’S financial fair play rules. Pushpa 2: Allu Arjun's film takes box office by storm, earns Rs 175.1 crore Allu Arjun's Pushpa 2 is taking the box office by storm across the nation. After the phenomenal box office performance of the first part, the euphoria for part 2 was quite evident.

Top 10 world news: US 'deep state' elements targeting Modi; Israel seeks Musk's help in hostage deal, & more

Russia said Friday its forces had captured a village near the embattled supply hub of Pokrovsk and another near the industrial town of Kurakhove, gaining ground in two key areas of the east Ukraine front line.

Moscow has been advancing in east Ukraine for months, pressing its advantage against overstretched and outgunned Ukrainian soldiers.

Russian army units "liberated the settlements" of Sukhi Yaly and Pustynka in the eastern Donetsk region, Moscow's defence ministry said in a daily briefing.

Sukhi Yaly is about 13 kilometres (eight miles) southwest of Kurakhove, a strategic industrial town on the banks of a reservoir that Moscow is trying to encircle.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russias-vostok-bases-new-wintering-complex-put-into-operation-781825">Also read:&nbsp;Russia's Vostok Base's new wintering complex put into operation</a>

Pustynka lies just south of Pokrovsk, an embattled logistics hub at the intersection of rail and road routes supplying Ukrainian troops across the front line.

The nearly three-year conflict has escalated sharply in recent months, with Kyiv deploying US and British-supplied long-range missiles in attacks on Russian soil and Moscow firing an experimental hypersonic weapon at Ukraine in response.

Watch |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine War: Lavrov Signals Readiness To Use Any Means In Ukraine Conflict

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Ukraine has been trying to put itself in as secure a position as possible ahead of US President-elect Donald Trump's return to the White House in January.

The Republicans have promised to swiftly end the conflict once in power, raising concerns in Kyiv that Ukraine will be forced to make massive territorial concessions to Moscow.

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.

Russia said Friday its forces had captured a village near the embattled supply hub of Pokrovsk and another near the industrial town of Kurakhove, gaining ground in two key areas of the east Ukraine front line.

Russia said Friday its forces had captured a village near the embattled supply hub of Pokrovsk and another near the industrial town of Kurakhove, gaining ground in two key areas of the east Ukraine front line. Moscow has been advancing in east Ukraine for months, pressing its advantage against overstretched and outgunned Ukrainian soldiers. Russian army units "liberated the settlements" of Sukhi Yaly and Pustynka in the eastern Donetsk region, Moscow's defence ministry said in a daily briefing. Sukhi Yaly is about 13 kilometres (eight miles) southwest of Kurakhove, a strategic industrial town on the banks of a reservoir that Moscow is trying to encircle. Also read: Russia's Vostok Base's new wintering complex put into operation Pustynka lies just south of Pokrovsk, an embattled logistics hub at the intersection of rail and road routes supplying Ukrainian troops across the front line. The nearly three-year conflict has escalated sharply in recent months, with Kyiv deploying US and British-supplied long-range missiles in attacks on Russian soil and Moscow firing an experimental hypersonic weapon at Ukraine in response. Watch | Russia-Ukraine War: Lavrov Signals Readiness To Use Any Means In Ukraine Conflict × Ukraine has been trying to put itself in as secure a position as possible ahead of US President-elect Donald Trump's return to the White House in January. The Republicans have promised to swiftly end the conflict once in power, raising concerns in Kyiv that Ukraine will be forced to make massive territorial concessions to Moscow. 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.

Russia claims it took two villages in Ukraine's Donetsk region

Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri will make a visit to Bangladesh on December 9 and meet his counterpart there, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said on Friday.

Misri will lead the Foreign Office Consultations with Bangladesh and attend several other meetings during his visit.

This comes amid strained ties between New Delhi and Dhaka following reports of several attacks on minorities, especially Hindus under the current interim government led by Muhammad Yunus.

"The Foreign Secretary is scheduled to visit Bangladesh on the 9th of December. He will meet his counterpart and there will be several other meetings during the visit. Foreign Office Consultations led by the Foreign Secretary is a structured engagement between India and Bangladesh. We look forward to this meeting," MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said in the weekly press briefing on Friday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bangladesh-recalls-2-senior-diplomats-from-india-amid-rising-tensions-between-both-nations-781913">Also read:&nbsp;Bangladesh recalls 2 senior diplomats from India amid rising tensions between both nations</a>

Asked about the situation on the ground in Bangladesh and the arrest of Hindu monk Chinmoy Krishna Das, MEA affirmed hope that the legal rights of the concerned individuals are respected and the trial is conducted in a "fair and transparent" manner.

"As far as the situation on the ground regarding the individuals you want, we want to reiterate our position again that they have legal rights and we hope that these legal rights will be respected and that the trial will be fair and transparent. They will get a fair and transparent trial," Jaiswal further added.

Chinmoy Krishna Das, who is associated with the Sammilita Sanatani Jagaran Jote, was arrested in Dhaka on November 25 on 'sedition' charges. The arrest followed a complaint filed on October 31 by a local politician that accused Chinmoy Das and others of disrespecting Bangladesh's national flag during a rally of the Hindu community.

On December 3, a Bangladesh court set January 2, 2025, as the next date of hearing in the case. The Chattogram court deferred the hearing on the bail petition of Chinmoy Krishna Das to January 2, The Daily Star reported. Chattogram Metropolitan Session Judge Saiful Islam set the new date for the hearing as the defence lawyer was absent from the court.

Watch |&nbsp;India's Rivals Cosy Up To Bangladesh

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Earlier on December 4, the Press Secretary to the Chief Advisor of Bangladesh's interim government, Shafiqul Alam, said that the Foreign Secretary of the two nations would hold talks on issues of mutual interest.

Speaking to ANI, Shafiqul Alam said, "We were looking forward to the meeting of the visit of the Indian Foreign Secretary, both Foreign Secretaries are going to talk issues of mutual interest and we hope these meetings are going to help deepen ties between the two neighbours."

On being asked about the ties with India, Alam said, "We think that our relations with India remain okay and we are trying to better our relationship. Both countries are trying to deepen our relationship and we hope in the coming days and coming months the relations will be much better."

Last week, during the weekly media briefing, MEA urged Bangladesh's interim government should "live up to its responsibility" and take steps to protect the minorities.

Expressing concern over the rise of "extremist rhetoric, increasing incidents of violence and provocation," MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said that India has consistently and strongly raised the issue of targeted attacks on Hindus and other minorities with the Bangladesh government.

Earlier, the Indian High Commissioner to Bangladesh, Pranay Verma was summoned by Bangladesh's Foreign Ministry, after protesters in Agartala, Tripura attacked the premises of the Bangladesh acting High Commission, reported Bangladesh newspaper Daily Star.

Following the incident, India expressed 'deep regret' and decided to step up security arrangements for the Bangladesh High Commission in New Delhi and its other diplomatic premises in the country.&nbsp;

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.

Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri will make a visit to Bangladesh on December 9 and meet his counterpart there, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said on Friday.

Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri will make a visit to Bangladesh on December 9 and meet his counterpart there, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said on Friday. Misri will lead the Foreign Office Consultations with Bangladesh and attend several other meetings during his visit. This comes amid strained ties between New Delhi and Dhaka following reports of several attacks on minorities, especially Hindus under the current interim government led by Muhammad Yunus. "The Foreign Secretary is scheduled to visit Bangladesh on the 9th of December. He will meet his counterpart and there will be several other meetings during the visit. Foreign Office Consultations led by the Foreign Secretary is a structured engagement between India and Bangladesh. We look forward to this meeting," MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said in the weekly press briefing on Friday. Also read: Bangladesh recalls 2 senior diplomats from India amid rising tensions between both nations Asked about the situation on the ground in Bangladesh and the arrest of Hindu monk Chinmoy Krishna Das, MEA affirmed hope that the legal rights of the concerned individuals are respected and the trial is conducted in a "fair and transparent" manner. "As far as the situation on the ground regarding the individuals you want, we want to reiterate our position again that they have legal rights and we hope that these legal rights will be respected and that the trial will be fair and transparent. They will get a fair and transparent trial," Jaiswal further added. Chinmoy Krishna Das, who is associated with the Sammilita Sanatani Jagaran Jote, was arrested in Dhaka on November 25 on 'sedition' charges. The arrest followed a complaint filed on October 31 by a local politician that accused Chinmoy Das and others of disrespecting Bangladesh's national flag during a rally of the Hindu community. On December 3, a Bangladesh court set January 2, 2025, as the next date of hearing in the case. The Chattogram court deferred the hearing on the bail petition of Chinmoy Krishna Das to January 2, The Daily Star reported. Chattogram Metropolitan Session Judge Saiful Islam set the new date for the hearing as the defence lawyer was absent from the court. Watch | India's Rivals Cosy Up To Bangladesh × Earlier on December 4, the Press Secretary to the Chief Advisor of Bangladesh's interim government, Shafiqul Alam, said that the Foreign Secretary of the two nations would hold talks on issues of mutual interest. Speaking to ANI, Shafiqul Alam said, "We were looking forward to the meeting of the visit of the Indian Foreign Secretary, both Foreign Secretaries are going to talk issues of mutual interest and we hope these meetings are going to help deepen ties between the two neighbours." On being asked about the ties with India, Alam said, "We think that our relations with India remain okay and we are trying to better our relationship. Both countries are trying to deepen our relationship and we hope in the coming days and coming months the relations will be much better." Last week, during the weekly media briefing, MEA urged Bangladesh's interim government should "live up to its responsibility" and take steps to protect the minorities. Expressing concern over the rise of "extremist rhetoric, increasing incidents of violence and provocation," MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said that India has consistently and strongly raised the issue of targeted attacks on Hindus and other minorities with the Bangladesh government. Earlier, the Indian High Commissioner to Bangladesh, Pranay Verma was summoned by Bangladesh's Foreign Ministry, after protesters in Agartala, Tripura attacked the premises of the Bangladesh acting High Commission, reported Bangladesh newspaper Daily Star. Following the incident, India expressed 'deep regret' and decided to step up security arrangements for the Bangladesh High Commission in New Delhi and its other diplomatic premises in the country. 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 foreign secretary Vikram Misri to visit Bangladesh on Dec 9 amid rising attacks on Hindus

United States President-elect Donald Trump on Thursday (Dec 5) night announced two new appointments to handle immigration crackdown. Trump nominated Rodney Scott as commissioner of Customs and Border Protection, and Caleb Vitello as acting director of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).&nbsp;

Scott has served for almost three decades in the border patrol and was also the chief of the agency in 2020, the last year of the Trump administration. However, he was ousted by President Joe Biden’s administration in 2021.&nbsp;

Since then, Scott has been a critic of the Biden administration's immigration policies and their handling of the crisis at the southern border.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-mexico-agreed-to-stop-migration-mexican-president-clarifies-no-plans-to-close-borders-779780">Also read:&nbsp;Trump says Mexico agreed to 'stop' migration; Mexican President clarifies no plans to 'close borders'</a>

Before serving as the chief, he also led the San Diego Sector, which is one of the most challenging sectors in America. He also implemented Trump’s ‘Remain in Mexico Policy’, Title 42 and Safe Third Country agreements.

Meanwhile, Caleb Vitello is currently the assistant director of the Office of Firearms and Tactical Programs in Immigration and Customs Enforcement but will be serving as the acting director of ICE in Trump's administration.&nbsp;

"A member of the Senior Executive Service, with over 23 years of service to ICE, Caleb currently serves as Assistant Director of the Office of Firearms and Tactical Programs, where he oversees Agency-wide training, equipment, and policy to ensure Officer and Public Safety," Trump said in a post on Truth Social late Thursday.

Watch |&nbsp;USA News: Donald Trump Claims Mexico Closing Border, Mexico President Sheinbaum Denies

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Vitello&nbsp;also led initiatives focused on child safety and national security threats, at the White House National Security Council.&nbsp;

Trump in his post added that Vitello led the Fugitive Operations Academy, served as Deputy Assistant Director, and directed the National Fugitive Operations Program, providing policy guidance, strategic planning, and operational oversight for efforts to locate, arrest, and remove at-large, dangerous criminals and illegal aliens from the country.&nbsp;

Trump has had a firm stance on America’s immigration policies and during his presidential campaign said that it was his topmost priority. He also said that in his first 100 days, he plans to begin the process of deporting hundreds of thousands of people and to roll back Biden’s immigration policies.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

United States President-elect Donald Trump on Thursday (Dec 5) night announced two new appointments to handle immigration crackdown. Trump nominated Rodney Scott as commissioner of Customs and Border Protection, and Caleb Vitello as acting director of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

United States President-elect Donald Trump on Thursday (Dec 5) night announced two new appointments to handle immigration crackdown. Trump nominated Rodney Scott as commissioner of Customs and Border Protection, and Caleb Vitello as acting director of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Scott has served for almost three decades in the border patrol and was also the chief of the agency in 2020, the last year of the Trump administration. However, he was ousted by President Joe Biden’s administration in 2021. Since then, Scott has been a critic of the Biden administration's immigration policies and their handling of the crisis at the southern border. Also read: Trump says Mexico agreed to 'stop' migration; Mexican President clarifies no plans to 'close borders' Before serving as the chief, he also led the San Diego Sector, which is one of the most challenging sectors in America. He also implemented Trump’s ‘Remain in Mexico Policy’, Title 42 and Safe Third Country agreements. Meanwhile, Caleb Vitello is currently the assistant director of the Office of Firearms and Tactical Programs in Immigration and Customs Enforcement but will be serving as the acting director of ICE in Trump's administration. "A member of the Senior Executive Service, with over 23 years of service to ICE, Caleb currently serves as Assistant Director of the Office of Firearms and Tactical Programs, where he oversees Agency-wide training, equipment, and policy to ensure Officer and Public Safety," Trump said in a post on Truth Social late Thursday. Watch | USA News: Donald Trump Claims Mexico Closing Border, Mexico President Sheinbaum Denies × Vitello also led initiatives focused on child safety and national security threats, at the White House National Security Council. Trump in his post added that Vitello led the Fugitive Operations Academy, served as Deputy Assistant Director, and directed the National Fugitive Operations Program, providing policy guidance, strategic planning, and operational oversight for efforts to locate, arrest, and remove at-large, dangerous criminals and illegal aliens from the country. Trump has had a firm stance on America’s immigration policies and during his presidential campaign said that it was his topmost priority. He also said that in his first 100 days, he plans to begin the process of deporting hundreds of thousands of people and to roll back Biden’s immigration policies. (With inputs from agencies)

US President-elect Trump picks Rodney Scott, Caleb Vitello to carry out immigration crackdown

As the investigation into UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson's killing continues, the New York Police Department has released photos of surveillance footage, showing a man with a mask down and smiling, who police believe is a suspect.&nbsp;

A female hostel employee told authorities that she asked the masked man to lower his mask while flirting with him, and that's how the authorities got the photos on Thursday, a law enforcement official told CNN.&nbsp;

"Below are photos of a person of interest wanted for questioning regarding the Midtown Manhattan homicide on Dec. 4. This does not appear to be a random act of violence; all indications are that it was a premeditated, targeted attack. The full investigative efforts of the NYPD are continuing, and we are asking for the public’s help—if you have any information about this case, call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477). There is a reward of up to $10,000 for information leading to an arrest and conviction," the New York Police Department said.

The man lowers “his mask and gives a big smile,” John Miller, CNN’s Chief Law Enforcement and Intelligence Analyst said.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/top-us-executive-shot-dead-in-new-york-city-report-781550">Also read:&nbsp;UnitedHealth CEO shot dead in New York City: Report</a>

“That little flirtation between the two of them, in some good-humored way, actually yielded what is so far the most significant clue to identifying him,” Miller added.

Brian Thompson was walking towards the hotel on Wednesday (Dec&nbsp;4) morning for the annual investor conference of the company, when a masked gunman was waiting for him, lying in freezing cold when he opened fire at the CEO, CNN said, citing New York police commissioner Jessica Tisch.

<h2>'Suspect tried to become a ghost'</h2>

A retired NYPD sergeant said that the suspect tried to become a ghost and may have fled to Central Park to quickly change his clothes.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;UnitedHealthcare CEO Murder: Manhunt Underway For Gunman

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“He tried to become a ghost, basically, and the ruse that he used was ‘Let me hide in plain sight’,” Felipe Rodriguez,&nbsp;a retired NYPD sergeant, told CNN.&nbsp;

The suspect also used a fake New Jersey driver's license to check into an Upper West Side hostel. The retired&nbsp;sergeant added that "every attempt that he made was to make sure that…we were not able to pick him up on camera."

“He already knows that we’ve already picked up at least his clothing to be able to broadcast over the police radio, so what you wanna do is quickly change out of that,” he said.

(With inputs from agencies)

As the investigation into UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson's killing continues, the New York Police Department has released photos of surveillance footage, showing a man with a mask down and smiling, who police believe is a suspect.

As the investigation into UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson's killing continues, the New York Police Department has released photos of surveillance footage, showing a man with a mask down and smiling, who police believe is a suspect. A female hostel employee told authorities that she asked the masked man to lower his mask while flirting with him, and that's how the authorities got the photos on Thursday, a law enforcement official told CNN. "Below are photos of a person of interest wanted for questioning regarding the Midtown Manhattan homicide on Dec. 4. This does not appear to be a random act of violence; all indications are that it was a premeditated, targeted attack. The full investigative efforts of the NYPD are continuing, and we are asking for the public’s help—if you have any information about this case, call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477). There is a reward of up to $10,000 for information leading to an arrest and conviction," the New York Police Department said. The man lowers “his mask and gives a big smile,” John Miller, CNN’s Chief Law Enforcement and Intelligence Analyst said. Also read: UnitedHealth CEO shot dead in New York City: Report “That little flirtation between the two of them, in some good-humored way, actually yielded what is so far the most significant clue to identifying him,” Miller added. Brian Thompson was walking towards the hotel on Wednesday (Dec 4) morning for the annual investor conference of the company, when a masked gunman was waiting for him, lying in freezing cold when he opened fire at the CEO, CNN said, citing New York police commissioner Jessica Tisch. 'Suspect tried to become a ghost' A retired NYPD sergeant said that the suspect tried to become a ghost and may have fled to Central Park to quickly change his clothes. Watch | UnitedHealthcare CEO Murder: Manhunt Underway For Gunman × “He tried to become a ghost, basically, and the ruse that he used was ‘Let me hide in plain sight’,” Felipe Rodriguez, a retired NYPD sergeant, told CNN. The suspect also used a fake New Jersey driver's license to check into an Upper West Side hostel. The retired sergeant added that "every attempt that he made was to make sure that…we were not able to pick him up on camera." “He already knows that we’ve already picked up at least his clothing to be able to broadcast over the police radio, so what you wanna do is quickly change out of that,” he said. (With inputs from agencies)

Flirtatious moment offers clue in search for UnitedHealthcare CEO's killer

Farmers from the northern Indian state of Punjab have suspended the 'Delhi Chalo' march for today (Dec 6) as police started using tear gas shells to prevent&nbsp;them from crossing the border.&nbsp;

Farmers in the day, vowed to march from the Shambhu border to the Parliament in Delhi on Friday (Dec 6).&nbsp;

As police fired tear gas shells, at least six farmers got injured, including BKU Krantikari chairman Surjit Singh Phool. Following this, farmer leader Sarwan Pandher has called for talks with Haryana police at the Shambhu border.&nbsp;

The farmers are pressing the Indian government to address their demands, including higher compensation and residential plots for their acquired land.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-ncr-bracing-for-traffic-chaos-as-punjab-farmers-vow-to-continue-march-781879">Also read:&nbsp;Delhi-NCR bracing for traffic chaos as Punjab farmers vow to continue march today</a>

The group of farmers are from Punjab under the banner of the Samyukta Kisan Morcha (non-political) and the Kisan Mazdoor Morcha.&nbsp;

As they continue to demonstrate at the Shambhu border, security has beefed up and Section 163 of the BNS has been imposed in Haryana's Ambala district, which prohibits the unlawful assembly of groups of four or more people.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Police use tear gas to disperse protesting farmers at the Haryana-Punjab Shambhu Border. 
 
The farmers have announced to march towards the National Capital-Delhi over their various demands. <a href="https://t.co/TQyigtUF6K">pic.twitter.com/TQyigtUF6K</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1864967534296076387?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 6, 2024</a></blockquote>
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The group managed to cross the initial barricades easily but was unable to move further.&nbsp;

Further, farmers were also seen removing barbed wires and barricades put up by the police at the border, news agency PTI reported.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Delhi Farmers Protest Explained: Why Are Farmers Protesting and What Are Their Demands?

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Meanwhile, some of the farmers said that the police used pepper spray on them to stop them from heading towards Delhi.

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VIDEO | Farmers remove barbed wires and barricades put up by the police at <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Shambhu?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Shambhu</a> border. 
 
The protesting farmers are marching to force the Centre for a legal guarantee for minimum support price for crops.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FarmersProtest?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FarmersProtest</a> 
 
(Full video available on PTI Videos -… <a href="https://t.co/Vi8h2rK94U">pic.twitter.com/Vi8h2rK94U</a>
— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) <a href="https://twitter.com/PTI_News/status/1864954577810022488?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 6, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2>'Farmers' demand is justified'</h2>

Samajwadi Party MP Awadhesh Prasad reacted to the current situation in the country, stressing, "Farmers' demand is justified because farmers are the soul of the country."

"Our country is farmers' country and till they become prosperous, our country won't become prosperous," he added.&nbsp;

<h2>'Govt turned back on its word'</h2>

Congress MP Rajeev Shukla said the government had promised a legal guarantee of MSP to the farmers but in Punjab, the situation like paddy procurement is not even being done.&nbsp;

"The government has turned back on its word. Even the vice president has expressed his concern about this issue. This government doesn't do what it says, so the farmers are agitated," he said.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Farmers from the northern Indian state of Punjab have suspended the 'Delhi Chalo' march for today (Dec 6) as police started using tear gas shells to prevent them from crossing the border.

Farmers from the northern Indian state of Punjab have suspended the 'Delhi Chalo' march for today (Dec 6) as police started using tear gas shells to prevent them from crossing the border. Farmers in the day, vowed to march from the Shambhu border to the Parliament in Delhi on Friday (Dec 6). As police fired tear gas shells, at least six farmers got injured, including BKU Krantikari chairman Surjit Singh Phool. Following this, farmer leader Sarwan Pandher has called for talks with Haryana police at the Shambhu border. The farmers are pressing the Indian government to address their demands, including higher compensation and residential plots for their acquired land. Also read: Delhi-NCR bracing for traffic chaos as Punjab farmers vow to continue march today The group of farmers are from Punjab under the banner of the Samyukta Kisan Morcha (non-political) and the Kisan Mazdoor Morcha. As they continue to demonstrate at the Shambhu border, security has beefed up and Section 163 of the BNS has been imposed in Haryana's Ambala district, which prohibits the unlawful assembly of groups of four or more people. #WATCH | Police use tear gas to disperse protesting farmers at the Haryana-Punjab Shambhu Border. The farmers have announced to march towards the National Capital-Delhi over their various demands. pic.twitter.com/TQyigtUF6K — ANI (@ANI) December 6, 2024 × The group managed to cross the initial barricades easily but was unable to move further. Further, farmers were also seen removing barbed wires and barricades put up by the police at the border, news agency PTI reported. Watch | Delhi Farmers Protest Explained: Why Are Farmers Protesting and What Are Their Demands? × Meanwhile, some of the farmers said that the police used pepper spray on them to stop them from heading towards Delhi. VIDEO | Farmers remove barbed wires and barricades put up by the police at #Shambhu border. The protesting farmers are marching to force the Centre for a legal guarantee for minimum support price for crops.#FarmersProtest (Full video available on PTI Videos -… pic.twitter.com/Vi8h2rK94U — Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) December 6, 2024 × 'Farmers' demand is justified' Samajwadi Party MP Awadhesh Prasad reacted to the current situation in the country, stressing, "Farmers' demand is justified because farmers are the soul of the country." "Our country is farmers' country and till they become prosperous, our country won't become prosperous," he added. 'Govt turned back on its word' Congress MP Rajeev Shukla said the government had promised a legal guarantee of MSP to the farmers but in Punjab, the situation like paddy procurement is not even being done. "The government has turned back on its word. Even the vice president has expressed his concern about this issue. This government doesn't do what it says, so the farmers are agitated," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

'Delhi Chalo' protest: Farmers halt march after police use tear gas shells, injuring many protesters

China on Tuesday banned exports to the United States of the critical minerals gallium, germanium and antimony that have widespread military applications, escalating trade tensions the day after Washington's latest crackdown on China's chip sector.

The curbs strengthen enforcement of existing limits on critical minerals exports that Beijing began rolling out last year, but apply only to the US&nbsp;market, in the latest escalation of trade tensions between the world's two largest economies ahead of President-elect Donald Trump taking office next month.

A Chinese Commerce Ministry directive on dual-use items with both military and civilian applications cited national security concerns. The order, which takes immediate effect, also requires a stricter review of end-usage for graphite items shipped to the US.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/amid-us-china-trade-tensions-beijing-urges-reconciliation-774577">Also read:&nbsp;Amid US-China trade tensions, Beijing urges reconciliation</a>

"In principle, the export of gallium, germanium, antimony, and superhard materials to the United States shall not be permitted," the ministry said.

Gallium and germanium are used in semiconductors, while germanium is also used in infrared technology, fibre optic cables and solar cells.&nbsp;

Antimony is used in bullets and other weaponry, while graphite is the largest component by volume of electric vehicle batteries.

Watch |&nbsp;China Responds To U.S. Chip Curbs With Strategic Restrictions

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The move has sparked fresh concern that Beijing could next target other critical minerals, including those with even broader usage such as nickel or cobalt.

"China has been signalling for some time that it's willing to take these steps, so when is the US going to learn its lesson?" said Todd Malan of Talon Metals, opens a new tab, which is trying to develop a nickel mine in Minnesota and is exploring for the metal in Michigan. The only US&nbsp;nickel mine will be depleted by 2028.

The United States was assessing the new restrictions, but will take "necessary steps" in response, a White House spokesperson said, without giving details.

"These new controls only underscore the importance of strengthening our efforts with other countries to de-risk and diversify critical supply chains away from PRC (China)," the spokesperson said.

Representatives for Trump did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Chinese customs data show there have been no shipments of wrought and unwrought germanium or gallium to the US this year through October, although it was the fourth and fifth-largest market for the minerals, respectively, a year earlier.

Similarly, China's overall October shipments of antimony products plunged by 97 per cent from September after Beijing's move to limit its exports took effect.

China accounted last year for 48 per cent of globally mined antimony, which is used in ammunition, infrared missiles, nuclear weapons and night-vision goggles, as well as in batteries and photovoltaic equipment.

This year, China has accounted for 59.2 per cent of refined germanium output and 98.8 per cent of refined gallium production, according to consultancy Project Blue.

"The move is a considerable escalation of tensions in supply chains where access to raw material units is already tight in the West," said Project Blue co-founder Jack Bedder.

Prices of antimony trioxide in Rotterdam had soared by 228 per cent since the beginning of the year to $39,000 a metric ton on Nov. 28, data from information provider Argus showed.

"Everyone will dig in their backyard to find antimony. Many countries will try to find antimony deposits," said a minor metals trader in Europe, declining to be named.

Perpetua Resources (PPTA.O), opens new tab, which is developing an Idaho antimony mine with U.S. government financial support, said China is "weaponizing accessing" to minerals critical for the US military and technology firms.

"We must get serious about American mineral sources," said Perpetua CEO Jon Cherry. "It's time to end our reliance on China and secure our future."

United States Antimony, opens new tab, which refines antimony in Montana, said it believes China's move will boost prices of the metal and thus increase supplies for its smelter, although the company acknowledged that it will take time for mines to be developed.

China's announcement comes after Washington launched its third crackdown in three years on China's semiconductor industry on Monday, curbing exports to 140 companies, including chip equipment maker Naura Technology Group, opens new tab.

Trump, whose first four-year White House term was marked by a bitter trade war with China, has said he will implement 10% tariffs on Chinese goods and threatened 60 per cent&nbsp;tariffs on Chinese imports during his presidential campaign.

"It comes as no surprise that China has responded to the increasing restrictions by American authorities, current and imminent, with its own restrictions on the supply of these strategic minerals," said Peter Arkell, chairman of the Global Mining Association of China.

"It's a trade war that has no winners," he said.

Separately, several Chinese industry groups on Tuesday called for their members to buy domestically made semiconductors, with one saying US&nbsp;chips were no longer safe and reliable.

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.

China on Tuesday banned exports to the United States of the critical minerals gallium, germanium and antimony that have widespread military applications, escalating trade tensions the day after Washington's latest crackdown on China's chip sector.

China on Tuesday banned exports to the United States of the critical minerals gallium, germanium and antimony that have widespread military applications, escalating trade tensions the day after Washington's latest crackdown on China's chip sector. The curbs strengthen enforcement of existing limits on critical minerals exports that Beijing began rolling out last year, but apply only to the US market, in the latest escalation of trade tensions between the world's two largest economies ahead of President-elect Donald Trump taking office next month. A Chinese Commerce Ministry directive on dual-use items with both military and civilian applications cited national security concerns. The order, which takes immediate effect, also requires a stricter review of end-usage for graphite items shipped to the US. Also read: Amid US-China trade tensions, Beijing urges reconciliation "In principle, the export of gallium, germanium, antimony, and superhard materials to the United States shall not be permitted," the ministry said. Gallium and germanium are used in semiconductors, while germanium is also used in infrared technology, fibre optic cables and solar cells. Antimony is used in bullets and other weaponry, while graphite is the largest component by volume of electric vehicle batteries. Watch | China Responds To U.S. Chip Curbs With Strategic Restrictions × The move has sparked fresh concern that Beijing could next target other critical minerals, including those with even broader usage such as nickel or cobalt. "China has been signalling for some time that it's willing to take these steps, so when is the US going to learn its lesson?" said Todd Malan of Talon Metals, opens a new tab, which is trying to develop a nickel mine in Minnesota and is exploring for the metal in Michigan. The only US nickel mine will be depleted by 2028. The United States was assessing the new restrictions, but will take "necessary steps" in response, a White House spokesperson said, without giving details. "These new controls only underscore the importance of strengthening our efforts with other countries to de-risk and diversify critical supply chains away from PRC (China)," the spokesperson said. Representatives for Trump did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Chinese customs data show there have been no shipments of wrought and unwrought germanium or gallium to the US this year through October, although it was the fourth and fifth-largest market for the minerals, respectively, a year earlier. Similarly, China's overall October shipments of antimony products plunged by 97 per cent from September after Beijing's move to limit its exports took effect. China accounted last year for 48 per cent of globally mined antimony, which is used in ammunition, infrared missiles, nuclear weapons and night-vision goggles, as well as in batteries and photovoltaic equipment. This year, China has accounted for 59.2 per cent of refined germanium output and 98.8 per cent of refined gallium production, according to consultancy Project Blue. "The move is a considerable escalation of tensions in supply chains where access to raw material units is already tight in the West," said Project Blue co-founder Jack Bedder. Prices of antimony trioxide in Rotterdam had soared by 228 per cent since the beginning of the year to $39,000 a metric ton on Nov. 28, data from information provider Argus showed. "Everyone will dig in their backyard to find antimony. Many countries will try to find antimony deposits," said a minor metals trader in Europe, declining to be named. Perpetua Resources (PPTA.O), opens new tab, which is developing an Idaho antimony mine with U.S. government financial support, said China is "weaponizing accessing" to minerals critical for the US military and technology firms. "We must get serious about American mineral sources," said Perpetua CEO Jon Cherry. "It's time to end our reliance on China and secure our future." United States Antimony, opens new tab, which refines antimony in Montana, said it believes China's move will boost prices of the metal and thus increase supplies for its smelter, although the company acknowledged that it will take time for mines to be developed. China's announcement comes after Washington launched its third crackdown in three years on China's semiconductor industry on Monday, curbing exports to 140 companies, including chip equipment maker Naura Technology Group, opens new tab. Trump, whose first four-year White House term was marked by a bitter trade war with China, has said he will implement 10% tariffs on Chinese goods and threatened 60 per cent tariffs on Chinese imports during his presidential campaign. "It comes as no surprise that China has responded to the increasing restrictions by American authorities, current and imminent, with its own restrictions on the supply of these strategic minerals," said Peter Arkell, chairman of the Global Mining Association of China. "It's a trade war that has no winners," he said. Separately, several Chinese industry groups on Tuesday called for their members to buy domestically made semiconductors, with one saying US chips were no longer safe and reliable. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

US-China trade tensions: Beijing bans export of critical microchip elements

France's lower house of parliament Wednesday started debating two no-confidence motions in a session widely expected to topple the minority government of Prime Minister Michel Barnier in a historic vote.

The ousting of the Barnier government after just three months in office would deepen the country's political crisis and present President Emmanuel Macron with the unenviable choice of picking a viable successor with over two years of his presidential term left.

The National Assembly lower house debated two motions brought by the hard left and the far right in a standoff over next year's austerity budget after the prime minister on Monday forced through a social security financing bill without a vote.

"The worst policy would be not to block such a budget," three-time presidential candidate Marine Le Pen said during the parliamentary debate, urging lawmakers to vote out the government of Macron and its "technocratic" choices.

The motion brought by Le Pen's far-right National Rally (RN) party was expected to be rejected.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-falls-into-new-political-crisis-after-government-faced-no-confidence-vote-781232">Also read:&nbsp;France falls into new political crisis as government faces no confidence vote</a>

But Le Pen has said her forces would back the left's motion, giving it enough numbers to pass a vote that was expected to topple a French government for the first time in more than 60 years.

The first results were expected around 1900 GMT.

<h2>'Death knell'&nbsp;</h2>

Eric Coquerel, a hard-left MP, said the motion against Barnier sounded the "death knell of Emmanuel Macron's mandate."

The French president was "today an obstacle, and in no way a solution. Today we are voting to censure your government, but more than anything else, we are sounding the death knell for a mandate: that of the president," he added.

Macron wrapped up his three-day state visit to Saudi Arabia and was returning to Paris.

A world away from the crisis, he strolled earlier Wednesday through the desert sands of the Al-Ula oasis, an iconic tourist project of the kingdom, marvelling at ancient landmarks.

On Tuesday, Macron accused Le Pen's far-right of "unbearable cynicism" in backing the motion.

In France, Barnier said he believed his government could still survive. "I want this and it is possible," Barnier said late Tuesday.

He accused Le Pen of "trying to get into a kind of bidding war" in their talks.

The turmoil follows a snap parliamentary election called by Macron in the summer that tried and failed to halt the march of the far right.

The result left the RN as the largest single party in the National Assembly but with no faction holding a majority.

Barnier took office with Le Pen becoming a potential kingmaker, and her party saying it could topple the administration at nearly any point of its choosing.

No new elections can be called within a year of last summer's vote, narrowing Macron's options.

<h2>'His failure'</h2>

Some have suggested Macron himself should resign to break the impasse.

But Macron rejected those calls, saying such a scenario amounted to "political fiction".

"It's frankly not up to scratch to say these things," Macron said.

With markets nervous and France bracing for public-sector strikes over the threat of cutbacks that will shut down schools and hit air and rail traffic, there is a growing sense of crisis.

The unions have called for civil servants, including teachers and air traffic controllers, to strike on Thursday over separate cost-cutting measures proposed by their respective ministries this autumn.

"His failure," was left-wing daily Liberation's front-page headline, with a picture of Macron, whose term runs until 2027.

In an editorial, Le Monde said Le Pen's move risked upsetting her own supporters, such as retirees and business leaders, by toppling the government.&nbsp;

"In the space of a few minutes, she shattered the strategy of normalisation she had consistently pursued," the daily said.

Watch |&nbsp;France: French Government Faces No Confidence Motion Amid Deepening Political Crisis

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Some observers have suggested that Le Pen, 56, is seeking to bring down Macron before his term ends by ousting Barnier.

Le Pen is embroiled in a high-profile embezzlement trial. If found guilty in March, she could be blocked from participating in France's next presidential election.&nbsp;

But if Macron stepped down soon, an election would have to be called within a month, potentially ahead of the verdict in her trial.

Candidates for the post of premier are few and far between, but loyalist Defence Minister Sebastien Lecornu and Macron's centrist ally Francois Bayrou are possible contenders.

On the left, Macron could turn to former Socialist premier and interior minister Bernard Cazeneuve, a contender in September.

If the government falls, it would be the first successful no-confidence vote since a defeat for Georges Pompidou's government in 1962, when Charles de Gaulle was president. &nbsp;

The lifespan of Barnier's government would be the shortest of any administration since the Fifth Republic began in 1958.

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.

France's lower house of parliament Wednesday started debating two no-confidence motions in a session widely expected to topple the minority government of Prime Minister Michel Barnier in a historic vote.

France's lower house of parliament Wednesday started debating two no-confidence motions in a session widely expected to topple the minority government of Prime Minister Michel Barnier in a historic vote. The ousting of the Barnier government after just three months in office would deepen the country's political crisis and present President Emmanuel Macron with the unenviable choice of picking a viable successor with over two years of his presidential term left. The National Assembly lower house debated two motions brought by the hard left and the far right in a standoff over next year's austerity budget after the prime minister on Monday forced through a social security financing bill without a vote. "The worst policy would be not to block such a budget," three-time presidential candidate Marine Le Pen said during the parliamentary debate, urging lawmakers to vote out the government of Macron and its "technocratic" choices. The motion brought by Le Pen's far-right National Rally (RN) party was expected to be rejected. Also read: France falls into new political crisis as government faces no confidence vote But Le Pen has said her forces would back the left's motion, giving it enough numbers to pass a vote that was expected to topple a French government for the first time in more than 60 years. The first results were expected around 1900 GMT. 'Death knell' Eric Coquerel, a hard-left MP, said the motion against Barnier sounded the "death knell of Emmanuel Macron's mandate." The French president was "today an obstacle, and in no way a solution. Today we are voting to censure your government, but more than anything else, we are sounding the death knell for a mandate: that of the president," he added. Macron wrapped up his three-day state visit to Saudi Arabia and was returning to Paris. A world away from the crisis, he strolled earlier Wednesday through the desert sands of the Al-Ula oasis, an iconic tourist project of the kingdom, marvelling at ancient landmarks. On Tuesday, Macron accused Le Pen's far-right of "unbearable cynicism" in backing the motion. In France, Barnier said he believed his government could still survive. "I want this and it is possible," Barnier said late Tuesday. He accused Le Pen of "trying to get into a kind of bidding war" in their talks. The turmoil follows a snap parliamentary election called by Macron in the summer that tried and failed to halt the march of the far right. The result left the RN as the largest single party in the National Assembly but with no faction holding a majority. Barnier took office with Le Pen becoming a potential kingmaker, and her party saying it could topple the administration at nearly any point of its choosing. No new elections can be called within a year of last summer's vote, narrowing Macron's options. 'His failure' Some have suggested Macron himself should resign to break the impasse. But Macron rejected those calls, saying such a scenario amounted to "political fiction". "It's frankly not up to scratch to say these things," Macron said. With markets nervous and France bracing for public-sector strikes over the threat of cutbacks that will shut down schools and hit air and rail traffic, there is a growing sense of crisis. The unions have called for civil servants, including teachers and air traffic controllers, to strike on Thursday over separate cost-cutting measures proposed by their respective ministries this autumn. "His failure," was left-wing daily Liberation's front-page headline, with a picture of Macron, whose term runs until 2027. In an editorial, Le Monde said Le Pen's move risked upsetting her own supporters, such as retirees and business leaders, by toppling the government. "In the space of a few minutes, she shattered the strategy of normalisation she had consistently pursued," the daily said. Watch | France: French Government Faces No Confidence Motion Amid Deepening Political Crisis × Some observers have suggested that Le Pen, 56, is seeking to bring down Macron before his term ends by ousting Barnier. Le Pen is embroiled in a high-profile embezzlement trial. If found guilty in March, she could be blocked from participating in France's next presidential election. But if Macron stepped down soon, an election would have to be called within a month, potentially ahead of the verdict in her trial. Candidates for the post of premier are few and far between, but loyalist Defence Minister Sebastien Lecornu and Macron's centrist ally Francois Bayrou are possible contenders. On the left, Macron could turn to former Socialist premier and interior minister Bernard Cazeneuve, a contender in September. If the government falls, it would be the first successful no-confidence vote since a defeat for Georges Pompidou's government in 1962, when Charles de Gaulle was president. The lifespan of Barnier's government would be the shortest of any administration since the Fifth Republic began in 1958. 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.

French govt set to collapse as MPs begin debate on no-confidence motion against PM Barnier

Palestinian militant group Hamas had threatened to "neutralise" or kill the captives if Israel carried out a hostage rescue operation, similar to the one it conducted in Gaza's Nuseirat camp in June, according to an internal statement seen by Reuters on Wednesday (Dec 4).&nbsp;

According to the document dated November 22, Hamas told its operatives not to consider any repercussions of following the instructions, adding that Israel was responsible for the fate of the hostages.

However, it did not mention anything about when the Israeli operation is expected to take place.

Israel has not commented on this report yet.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-warns-hamas-to-release-hostages-or-face-consequences-hell-to-pay-781086">Also read:&nbsp;Donald Trump warns Hamas to release hostages or face consequences; 'HELL TO PAY'</a>

Earlier today, Israeli media cited Defence Minister Israel Katz, saying that pressure on Hamas was increasing and this time "we will really be able to advance a hostage deal."

Earlier in June, hostages Noa Argamani, Almog Meir Jan, Andrey Kozlov and Shlomi Ziv were rescued by the Israeli security forces.&nbsp;

These four people were abducted on October 7 from the Nova music festival.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Donald Trump Warns ‘There Will Be All Hell To Pay’ If Hamas Hostages Aren't Released

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More than 270 Palestinian civilians were killed after Israeli&nbsp;forces hid in aid trucks.&nbsp;

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF), Shin Bet, and the Israeli police conducted a complex operation in the centre of the Gaza Strip. During the operation, Commander Arnon Zamora was killed and the operation was later renamed Operation Arnon.

Around three months after the rescue operation, six hostages were murdered in a tunnel in Rafah by Hamas militants.&nbsp;

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)

Palestinian militant group Hamas had threatened to "neutralise" or kill the captives if Israel carried out a hostage rescue operation, similar to the one it conducted in Gaza's Nuseirat camp in June, according to an internal statement seen by Reuters on Wednesday (Dec 4).

Palestinian militant group Hamas had threatened to "neutralise" or kill the captives if Israel carried out a hostage rescue operation, similar to the one it conducted in Gaza's Nuseirat camp in June, according to an internal statement seen by Reuters on Wednesday (Dec 4). According to the document dated November 22, Hamas told its operatives not to consider any repercussions of following the instructions, adding that Israel was responsible for the fate of the hostages. However, it did not mention anything about when the Israeli operation is expected to take place. Israel has not commented on this report yet. Also read: Donald Trump warns Hamas to release hostages or face consequences; 'HELL TO PAY' Earlier today, Israeli media cited Defence Minister Israel Katz, saying that pressure on Hamas was increasing and this time "we will really be able to advance a hostage deal." Earlier in June, hostages Noa Argamani, Almog Meir Jan, Andrey Kozlov and Shlomi Ziv were rescued by the Israeli security forces. These four people were abducted on October 7 from the Nova music festival. Watch | Donald Trump Warns ‘There Will Be All Hell To Pay’ If Hamas Hostages Aren't Released × More than 270 Palestinian civilians were killed after Israeli forces hid in aid trucks. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF), Shin Bet, and the Israeli police conducted a complex operation in the centre of the Gaza Strip. During the operation, Commander Arnon Zamora was killed and the operation was later renamed Operation Arnon. Around three months after the rescue operation, six hostages were murdered in a tunnel in Rafah by Hamas militants. 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)

Hamas threatens to 'neutralise' hostages if Israel launches rescue operation: Report

Syrian rebel chief Abu Mohammed al-Jolani, head of the Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, sent an official message Thursday using his real name for the first time after his fighters seized the strategic city of Hama.

"We congratulate the people of Hama for their victory," said the message, bearing an image of Jolani and signed "Commander Ahmed al-Sharaa".

The message was posted on the Telegram channel of rebel factions' leadership, created just days after the offensive began on November 27.

In an interview in 2021 with American public broadcaster PBS, Jolani confirmed his real name was Ahmed al-Sharaa, and said his more frequently used nom de guerre was a reference to his family origins in Syria's Golan Heights.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/syria-forces-fight-to-stop-rebel-advance-in-key-central-city-hama-781752">Also read:&nbsp;Syria forces fight to stop rebel advance in key central city of Hama</a>

Israel seized much of the Golan Heights from Syria in 1967 and later annexed it in a move largely unrecognised by the international community.

Jolani, born in 1982, told PBS his grandfather was displaced from the Golan when the Israeli army entered the area.

The apparent switch in names comes as his fighters seize control of swathes of Syrian territory from the government, including the key cities of Aleppo and Hama.

Watch |&nbsp;Syrian Conflict: Rebel Factions Enter Hama, Oust Pro-govt Forces From Key City | World News | WION

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HTS has sought to moderate its image in recent years, including by cutting ties with its one-time sponsor Al-Qaeda, but experts say it faces an uphill battle convincing Western governments it has fully renounced hardline jihadism.

HTS says it no longer has any links to Al-Qaeda after severing them in 2016, five years into Syria's civil war.

It took on its current name the following year, arresting Al-Qaeda and Islamic State group jihadists, according to the International Crisis Group (ICG) think tank.

But it remains blacklisted by the United States and the European Union.

Several experts have warned the group has not fundamentally broken with its past despite its rebranding.

On Wednesday, images posted on HTS's Telegram channel showed the bearded Jolani waving to supporters from an open-top car as he visited Aleppo's landmark citadel.

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.

Syrian rebel chief Abu Mohammed al-Jolani, head of the Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, sent an official message Thursday using his real name for the first time after his fighters seized the strategic city of Hama.

Syrian rebel chief Abu Mohammed al-Jolani, head of the Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, sent an official message Thursday using his real name for the first time after his fighters seized the strategic city of Hama. "We congratulate the people of Hama for their victory," said the message, bearing an image of Jolani and signed "Commander Ahmed al-Sharaa". The message was posted on the Telegram channel of rebel factions' leadership, created just days after the offensive began on November 27. In an interview in 2021 with American public broadcaster PBS, Jolani confirmed his real name was Ahmed al-Sharaa, and said his more frequently used nom de guerre was a reference to his family origins in Syria's Golan Heights. Also read: Syria forces fight to stop rebel advance in key central city of Hama Israel seized much of the Golan Heights from Syria in 1967 and later annexed it in a move largely unrecognised by the international community. Jolani, born in 1982, told PBS his grandfather was displaced from the Golan when the Israeli army entered the area. The apparent switch in names comes as his fighters seize control of swathes of Syrian territory from the government, including the key cities of Aleppo and Hama. Watch | Syrian Conflict: Rebel Factions Enter Hama, Oust Pro-govt Forces From Key City | World News | WION × HTS has sought to moderate its image in recent years, including by cutting ties with its one-time sponsor Al-Qaeda, but experts say it faces an uphill battle convincing Western governments it has fully renounced hardline jihadism. HTS says it no longer has any links to Al-Qaeda after severing them in 2016, five years into Syria's civil war. It took on its current name the following year, arresting Al-Qaeda and Islamic State group jihadists, according to the International Crisis Group (ICG) think tank. But it remains blacklisted by the United States and the European Union. Several experts have warned the group has not fundamentally broken with its past despite its rebranding. On Wednesday, images posted on HTS's Telegram channel showed the bearded Jolani waving to supporters from an open-top car as he visited Aleppo's landmark citadel. 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.

Syrian conflict: Rebel leader uses real name for first time in official message

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