<p>Bangladesh interim government’s head Muhammad Yunus on Thursday (Dec 5) sought the cooperation of the religious leaders in gathering accurate and unrestricted information regarding the issues faced by minorities in the country.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He further stressed the need to ensure that the information is obtained safely.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“I have asked you to join (today's dialogue) to know how information could be gleaned in a safer way so that the information providers do not fall in trouble,” Yunus said while delivering his remarks for the faith leaders of Bangladesh at the Foreign Service Academy in Dhaka. &nbsp;</p>

<p>At the beginning of the discussion, he said, “Despite our differences, we are not enemies”, adding, “The reason I’m here today is that I have seen some questions raised in the media, and I am here to find answers to them.”</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/yunus-says-hasina-destroyed-everything-in-bangladesh-calls-for-reforms-before-polls-781527"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Yunus says 'Hasina destroyed everything' in Bangladesh, polls to be held only after reforms</strong></a></p>

<p>Yunus recalled that after he took the oath, he started hearing about the persecution of minorities, which distressed him.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Immediately, I visited Dhakeshwari Temple and reiterated that we are all members of the same family. Regardless of all demands, one thing is clear: we all have equal rights—the right to speak, to practice our religion, and to work. These rights are guaranteed by the constitution,” Yunus said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;India Reiterates Call To Ensure Safety Of Minorities In Bangladesh</strong></p>

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<p>"Now, however, we are hearing new reports of attacks and atrocities. Foreign and local media are reporting this, and I am investigating the situation. After looking into it, it seems the situation is not as severe as it’s being portrayed. The reports are inconsistent, and this is not acceptable,” Yunus added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He stressed, “We need to address this discrepancy. Is the information being reported false, or is our information inaccurate? Where is the truth?"</p>

<p>He said that relying on government sources alone is insufficient as they often report according to those in power.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Bangladesh interim government’s head Muhammad Yunus on Thursday (Dec 5) sought the cooperation of the religious leaders in gathering accurate and unrestricted information regarding the issues faced by minorities in the country.

Bangladesh interim government’s head Muhammad Yunus on Thursday (Dec 5) sought the cooperation of the religious leaders in gathering accurate and unrestricted information regarding the issues faced by minorities in the country. He further stressed the need to ensure that the information is obtained safely. “I have asked you to join (today's dialogue) to know how information could be gleaned in a safer way so that the information providers do not fall in trouble,” Yunus said while delivering his remarks for the faith leaders of Bangladesh at the Foreign Service Academy in Dhaka. At the beginning of the discussion, he said, “Despite our differences, we are not enemies”, adding, “The reason I’m here today is that I have seen some questions raised in the media, and I am here to find answers to them.” Also read: Yunus says 'Hasina destroyed everything' in Bangladesh, polls to be held only after reforms Yunus recalled that after he took the oath, he started hearing about the persecution of minorities, which distressed him. “Immediately, I visited Dhakeshwari Temple and reiterated that we are all members of the same family. Regardless of all demands, one thing is clear: we all have equal rights—the right to speak, to practice our religion, and to work. These rights are guaranteed by the constitution,” Yunus said. Watch | India Reiterates Call To Ensure Safety Of Minorities In Bangladesh × "Now, however, we are hearing new reports of attacks and atrocities. Foreign and local media are reporting this, and I am investigating the situation. After looking into it, it seems the situation is not as severe as it’s being portrayed. The reports are inconsistent, and this is not acceptable,” Yunus added. He stressed, “We need to address this discrepancy. Is the information being reported false, or is our information inaccurate? Where is the truth?" He said that relying on government sources alone is insufficient as they often report according to those in power. (With inputs from agencies)

Bangladesh’s interim govt seeks help of religious leaders to get info about attacks on minorities

<p>India's&nbsp;External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Thursday (Dec 5) reaffirmed New Delhi's&nbsp;support for a two-state solution and reiterated that Israel stood by India during security threats.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During the Question Hour in the Rajya Sabha (upper house of the Indian Parliament), EAM Jaishankar addressed the Israel-Hamas war and said that India and Israel have a strong record of cooperation in the area of national security.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Jaishankar said that India's decision to continue defence cooperation with Israel relies on national security interests.</p>

<p>"As far as Israel is concerned, it is a country with which we have a strong record of cooperation in national security. It is also a country that has stood by us at different moments when our national security was under threat. When we take any decision, we will bear in mind the larger circumstances but we will be guided by our national security interests," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-unequivocally-condemns-terrorism-in-regular-touch-with-israel-says-jaishankar-at-rome-conference-779133"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;'India unequivocally condemns terrorism, in regular touch with Israel, Iran': Jaishankar at Rome conference</strong></a></p>

<p>"We condemn terrorism, we condemn hostage-taking. We do believe countries have the right to respond to the situation but countries should be mindful of civilian casualties. They must observe humanitarian law and we would like a ceasefire and an early end of violence," Jaishankar said while responding to a supplementary regarding India's position on the ongoing Israel-Hamas&nbsp;war.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Further while reiterating India's support for a two-state solution, he said that issues of terrorism and hostage-taking cannot be underplayed or ignored.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“India’s policy towards Palestine has been long-standing and we have always supported a negotiated two-State solution, towards the establishment of a sovereign, independent and viable State of Palestine within secure and recognised borders, living side by side in peace with Israel," the Indian foreign minister&nbsp;said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;West Asia crisis: EAM Jaishankar holds talks with Iran &amp; Israel</strong></p>

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<p>Responding to a question about India's abstention from some resolutions in the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA)&nbsp;in October last year, Jaishankar said there were many resolutions in the assembly, adding that in some, India abstained and in some, it voted in favour.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Since the beginning of the Israel-Hamas conflict, 13 resolutions concerning Palestine were brought in UNGA out of which India voted in favour of 10 resolutions and abstained from three resolutions," Jaishankar said.</p>

<p>"In this particular case, we felt that the resolution was not well-drafted and not well-considered. We had reservations about the language. Our concern was not accommodated. That is why we abstained," he said.</p>

<p>“A country like India, which is itself a victim of terrorism, if we countenance the fact that terrorism is underplayed and ignored, it is not in our interests that we do so. We look at any resolution, we look at the wording and take a mature view," the EAM&nbsp;added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Thursday (Dec 5) reaffirmed New Delhi's support for a two-state solution and reiterated that Israel stood by India during security threats.

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Thursday (Dec 5) reaffirmed New Delhi's support for a two-state solution and reiterated that Israel stood by India during security threats. During the Question Hour in the Rajya Sabha (upper house of the Indian Parliament), EAM Jaishankar addressed the Israel-Hamas war and said that India and Israel have a strong record of cooperation in the area of national security. Jaishankar said that India's decision to continue defence cooperation with Israel relies on national security interests. "As far as Israel is concerned, it is a country with which we have a strong record of cooperation in national security. It is also a country that has stood by us at different moments when our national security was under threat. When we take any decision, we will bear in mind the larger circumstances but we will be guided by our national security interests," he said. Also read: 'India unequivocally condemns terrorism, in regular touch with Israel, Iran': Jaishankar at Rome conference "We condemn terrorism, we condemn hostage-taking. We do believe countries have the right to respond to the situation but countries should be mindful of civilian casualties. They must observe humanitarian law and we would like a ceasefire and an early end of violence," Jaishankar said while responding to a supplementary regarding India's position on the ongoing Israel-Hamas war. Further while reiterating India's support for a two-state solution, he said that issues of terrorism and hostage-taking cannot be underplayed or ignored. “India’s policy towards Palestine has been long-standing and we have always supported a negotiated two-State solution, towards the establishment of a sovereign, independent and viable State of Palestine within secure and recognised borders, living side by side in peace with Israel," the Indian foreign minister said. Watch | West Asia crisis: EAM Jaishankar holds talks with Iran & Israel × Responding to a question about India's abstention from some resolutions in the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in October last year, Jaishankar said there were many resolutions in the assembly, adding that in some, India abstained and in some, it voted in favour. "Since the beginning of the Israel-Hamas conflict, 13 resolutions concerning Palestine were brought in UNGA out of which India voted in favour of 10 resolutions and abstained from three resolutions," Jaishankar said. "In this particular case, we felt that the resolution was not well-drafted and not well-considered. We had reservations about the language. Our concern was not accommodated. That is why we abstained," he said. “A country like India, which is itself a victim of terrorism, if we countenance the fact that terrorism is underplayed and ignored, it is not in our interests that we do so. We look at any resolution, we look at the wording and take a mature view," the EAM added. (With inputs from agencies)

'Israel stood by India during national security threats,' Jaishankar briefs parliament on Israel-Hamas war

<p>Incarcerated Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder and former Pakistan prime minister Imran Khan on Thursday (Dec 5), was indicted in the General Headquarters (GHQ) attack which took place during the May 9 riots last year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Former Pakistan PM has been indicted on charges of inciting his party supporters to attack the country's military and its installations in 2023.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) Judge Amjad Ali Shah conducted a hearing for the GHQ attack case at a make-shift court set up in Rawalpindi's Adiala Jail.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Besides Imran Khan, several other PTI leaders including, Sheikh Rashid, Omar Ayub, and Sheikh Rashid Shafiq, Raja Basharat and Zartaj Gul, are also indicted in the case.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-court-finds-ex-pm-imran-khan-guilty-in-may-9-violence-case-revokes-bail-in-8-cases-780628"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Pakistan: Court finds ex-PM Imran Khan guilty for May 9 violence; revokes bail in 8 cases</strong></a></p>

<p>The court has summoned all accused in the GHQ attack case. The charges will likely be brought against 120 individuals, including Imran Khan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Imran Khan has pleaded not guilty to the charges.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As the decision came, the opposition leader in the National Assembly Omar Ayub was arrested. Meanwhile, former Punjab law minister Raja Basharat was taken into custody immediately after leaving the Adiala Jail.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The court has now adjourned the case until December 10.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Additionally, it has also ordered former foreign minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi from Lahore Jail to appear. The court has also issued orders to arrest several PTI leaders, including Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur, Shibli Faraz, Shireen Mazari, Zartaj Gul, Zain Qureshi, and Taiba Raja.</p>

<p>Arrest warrants have now been issued for 45 absconding accused, with the court issuing a warning that legal proceedings would begin to declare them fugitives if they fail to appear.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Pakistan: Imran Khan Convicted Over May 9 Violence</strong></p>

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<p>Earlier this year, Imran Khan was arrested in the GHQ attack case, and soon after he was issued a release warrant in the cypher case.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>May 9 riots</strong></h2>

<p>Former PM Imran Khan was arrested on May 9 last year from the Islamabad High Court, where he was attending a hearing in a corruption case. He was accused of receiving illegal gifts and assets from foreign countries.</p>

<p>His arrest sparked criticism and protests, which eventually led to riots across the nation. Khan's supporters and party workers took to the streets to demand his release.</p>

<p>As they continued to protest, the protesters attacked and vandalised several civil and military installations, including the General Headquarters (GHQ) of the army in Rawalpindi, the Jinnah House in Lahore, the Mianwali air base and others.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Following this, more than 5,000 people were arrested and charged under the Anti-Terrorism Act (ATA) and other laws. Khan was also accused of being the mastermind for inciting his supporters.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Khan, who has been in prison for more than a year now, has been named in dozens of cases since he left office in 2022.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Incarcerated Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder and former Pakistan prime minister Imran Khan on Thursday (Dec 5), was indicted in the General Headquarters (GHQ) attack which took place during the May 9 riots last year.

Incarcerated Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder and former Pakistan prime minister Imran Khan on Thursday (Dec 5), was indicted in the General Headquarters (GHQ) attack which took place during the May 9 riots last year. Former Pakistan PM has been indicted on charges of inciting his party supporters to attack the country's military and its installations in 2023. Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) Judge Amjad Ali Shah conducted a hearing for the GHQ attack case at a make-shift court set up in Rawalpindi's Adiala Jail. Besides Imran Khan, several other PTI leaders including, Sheikh Rashid, Omar Ayub, and Sheikh Rashid Shafiq, Raja Basharat and Zartaj Gul, are also indicted in the case. Also read: Pakistan: Court finds ex-PM Imran Khan guilty for May 9 violence; revokes bail in 8 cases The court has summoned all accused in the GHQ attack case. The charges will likely be brought against 120 individuals, including Imran Khan. Imran Khan has pleaded not guilty to the charges. As the decision came, the opposition leader in the National Assembly Omar Ayub was arrested. Meanwhile, former Punjab law minister Raja Basharat was taken into custody immediately after leaving the Adiala Jail. The court has now adjourned the case until December 10. Additionally, it has also ordered former foreign minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi from Lahore Jail to appear. The court has also issued orders to arrest several PTI leaders, including Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur, Shibli Faraz, Shireen Mazari, Zartaj Gul, Zain Qureshi, and Taiba Raja. Arrest warrants have now been issued for 45 absconding accused, with the court issuing a warning that legal proceedings would begin to declare them fugitives if they fail to appear. Watch | Pakistan: Imran Khan Convicted Over May 9 Violence × Earlier this year, Imran Khan was arrested in the GHQ attack case, and soon after he was issued a release warrant in the cypher case. May 9 riots Former PM Imran Khan was arrested on May 9 last year from the Islamabad High Court, where he was attending a hearing in a corruption case. He was accused of receiving illegal gifts and assets from foreign countries. His arrest sparked criticism and protests, which eventually led to riots across the nation. Khan's supporters and party workers took to the streets to demand his release. As they continued to protest, the protesters attacked and vandalised several civil and military installations, including the General Headquarters (GHQ) of the army in Rawalpindi, the Jinnah House in Lahore, the Mianwali air base and others. Following this, more than 5,000 people were arrested and charged under the Anti-Terrorism Act (ATA) and other laws. Khan was also accused of being the mastermind for inciting his supporters. Khan, who has been in prison for more than a year now, has been named in dozens of cases since he left office in 2022. (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan former PM Imran Khan indicted in May 9 GHQ attack case

<p>Syrian government forces were locked in heavy fighting around the central city of Hama on Thursday, trying to halt an advance of Islamist-led rebels, a war monitor said.</p>

<p>The fighting around Hama follows a rapid offensive by the rebels, who in just days captured large chunks of territory, including Syria's second city, Aleppo, from President Bashar al-Assad's control.</p>

<p>Strategically located in central Syria, Hama is crucial for the army’s efforts to protect the capital, Damascus.</p>

<p>By late Wednesday, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights monitor said rebel fighters had "surrounded Hama city from three sides".</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/syrias-devastated-city-of-aleppo-back-in-rebel-hands-781342"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Syria's devastated city of Aleppo back in rebel hands</strong></a></p>

<p>"Violent clashes took place during the night between the rebels and the regime forces", particularly in the Jabal Zayn al-Abidin area, just north of Hama, said the Britain-based monitor.</p>

<p>The head of the Observatory, Rami Abdel Rahman, said government troops were engaged in "fierce resistance and trying to stop the rebels' advance".</p>

<p>Syrian state media quoted a military source late Wednesday as saying Russian and Syrian air forces, alongside artillery units, had conducted "concentrated strikes on the... terrorists" in the Hama area.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;War In Syria: Rebels Claim Victory In Tel Rifaat</strong></p>

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<p>Maya, a 22-year-old student who gave her first name only for security concerns, said she and her family were staying at home as the fighting rages outside.</p>

<p>"We have been hearing non-stop the sounds of explosions and shelling," she told AFP by telephone from Hama.</p>

<p>"We don't know what's going on outside."</p>

<h2><strong>Rebel leader tours citadel&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The Observatory, which relies on a network of sources in Syria, says 704 people, mostly combatants but also 110 civilians, have been killed in Syria since the violence erupted last week.</p>

<p>It marks the most intense fighting since 2020 in a country already ravaged by civil war, which erupted with the repression of pro-democracy protests in 2011.</p>

<p>Key to the rebels' successes since the start of the offensive last week was the takeover of Aleppo, which in more than a decade of war had never entirely fallen out of government hands.</p>

<p>The head of the Islamist rebel group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), Abu Mohammad al-Jolani, on Wednesday visited Aleppo's landmark citadel.</p>

<p>Jolani was seen waving to supporters from an open-top car as he visited the historic fortress, in images posted on the rebels' Telegram channel.</p>

<p>While the advancing rebels found little resistance earlier in their offensive, the fighting around Hama has been especially fierce.</p>

<p>Assad ordered a 50 per cent raise in career soldiers' pay, state news agency SANA reported, as he seeks to bolster his forces for the counteroffensive.</p>

<p>The Observatory said government forces brought "large military convoys to Hama" and its outskirts.</p>

<p>It said, "Regime forces and pro-government fighters led by Russian and Iranian officers were able to repel&nbsp;an attack northwest of Hama."</p>

<p>The monitor also said that the fighting was close to an area mainly populated by Alawites, followers of the same offshoot of Shiite Islam as the president.</p>

<h2><strong>'Scorched-earth counteroffensive'&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The rebels launched their offensive in northern Syria on November 27, the same day a ceasefire took effect in the war between Israel and Hezbollah in neighbouring Lebanon.</p>

<p>Both Hezbollah and Russia have been key backers of Assad's government, but have been more recently mired in their own respective conflicts.</p>

<p>The United Nations on Wednesday said 115,000 people had been "newly displaced across Idlib and northern Aleppo" by the fighting.</p>

<p>Human Rights Watch warned the fighting "raises concerns that civilians face a real risk of serious abuses at the hands of opposition armed groups and the Syrian government".</p>

<p>Until last week, the war in Syria had been mostly dormant for years, but analysts have said the violence was bound to flare up as it was never truly resolved.</p>

<p>Spearheading the rebel alliance is HTS, which is rooted in Syria's Al-Qaeda branch.</p>

<p>"HTS has had a lot of time and space and resources to organise itself and to prepare for this," said analyst Sam Heller of the US-based Century Foundation think tank.</p>

<p>How the fighting unfolds now "depends on whether the Syrian government can regain its footing", Heller said.</p>

<p>"Opposition forces currently pushing south will likely get stuck somewhere in Syria's centre, when they run into really motivated and intractable loyalist resistance," he said.</p>

<p>"At that point, it will be a question of whether Damascus has the means to mount the type of scorched-earth counteroffensive I assume it would like to execute."</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>


Syrian government forces were locked in heavy fighting around the central city of Hama on Thursday, trying to halt an advance of Islamist-led rebels, a war monitor said.

Syrian government forces were locked in heavy fighting around the central city of Hama on Thursday, trying to halt an advance of Islamist-led rebels, a war monitor said. The fighting around Hama follows a rapid offensive by the rebels, who in just days captured large chunks of territory, including Syria's second city, Aleppo, from President Bashar al-Assad's control. Strategically located in central Syria, Hama is crucial for the army’s efforts to protect the capital, Damascus. By late Wednesday, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights monitor said rebel fighters had "surrounded Hama city from three sides". Also read: Syria's devastated city of Aleppo back in rebel hands "Violent clashes took place during the night between the rebels and the regime forces", particularly in the Jabal Zayn al-Abidin area, just north of Hama, said the Britain-based monitor. The head of the Observatory, Rami Abdel Rahman, said government troops were engaged in "fierce resistance and trying to stop the rebels' advance". Syrian state media quoted a military source late Wednesday as saying Russian and Syrian air forces, alongside artillery units, had conducted "concentrated strikes on the... terrorists" in the Hama area. Watch | War In Syria: Rebels Claim Victory In Tel Rifaat × Maya, a 22-year-old student who gave her first name only for security concerns, said she and her family were staying at home as the fighting rages outside. "We have been hearing non-stop the sounds of explosions and shelling," she told AFP by telephone from Hama. "We don't know what's going on outside." Rebel leader tours citadel The Observatory, which relies on a network of sources in Syria, says 704 people, mostly combatants but also 110 civilians, have been killed in Syria since the violence erupted last week. It marks the most intense fighting since 2020 in a country already ravaged by civil war, which erupted with the repression of pro-democracy protests in 2011. Key to the rebels' successes since the start of the offensive last week was the takeover of Aleppo, which in more than a decade of war had never entirely fallen out of government hands. The head of the Islamist rebel group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), Abu Mohammad al-Jolani, on Wednesday visited Aleppo's landmark citadel. Jolani was seen waving to supporters from an open-top car as he visited the historic fortress, in images posted on the rebels' Telegram channel. While the advancing rebels found little resistance earlier in their offensive, the fighting around Hama has been especially fierce. Assad ordered a 50 per cent raise in career soldiers' pay, state news agency SANA reported, as he seeks to bolster his forces for the counteroffensive. The Observatory said government forces brought "large military convoys to Hama" and its outskirts. It said, "Regime forces and pro-government fighters led by Russian and Iranian officers were able to repel an attack northwest of Hama." The monitor also said that the fighting was close to an area mainly populated by Alawites, followers of the same offshoot of Shiite Islam as the president. 'Scorched-earth counteroffensive' The rebels launched their offensive in northern Syria on November 27, the same day a ceasefire took effect in the war between Israel and Hezbollah in neighbouring Lebanon. Both Hezbollah and Russia have been key backers of Assad's government, but have been more recently mired in their own respective conflicts. The United Nations on Wednesday said 115,000 people had been "newly displaced across Idlib and northern Aleppo" by the fighting. Human Rights Watch warned the fighting "raises concerns that civilians face a real risk of serious abuses at the hands of opposition armed groups and the Syrian government". Until last week, the war in Syria had been mostly dormant for years, but analysts have said the violence was bound to flare up as it was never truly resolved. Spearheading the rebel alliance is HTS, which is rooted in Syria's Al-Qaeda branch. "HTS has had a lot of time and space and resources to organise itself and to prepare for this," said analyst Sam Heller of the US-based Century Foundation think tank. How the fighting unfolds now "depends on whether the Syrian government can regain its footing", Heller said. "Opposition forces currently pushing south will likely get stuck somewhere in Syria's centre, when they run into really motivated and intractable loyalist resistance," he said. "At that point, it will be a question of whether Damascus has the means to mount the type of scorched-earth counteroffensive I assume it would like to execute." 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.

Syria forces fight to stop rebel advance in key central city of Hama

<p>Internet censors have taken down a speech by prominent Chinese economist Gao Shanwen after he warned that a widespread lack of opportunities for young people was pulling down growth in the country, Radio Free Asia reported.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Today, young people in China are tightening their belts and "turning off the lights and eating noodles", instead of following promising careers and contributing their disposable income into the economy, Gao, a chief economist at SDIC Securities, said at an investor conference in Shenzhen on Tuesday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Turning off the lights and eating noodles” is a catchphrase used to describe someone who is down on their luck after failed investments in the stock market.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Gao's statement went viral on social media and was considered insensitive enough to be removed from the "Economist Book Club" public account on WeChat.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-stops-releasing-youth-unemployment-data-amid-disappointing-economic-figures-625733"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;China stops releasing youth unemployment data amid disappointing economic figures</strong></a></p>

<p>The WeChat link where Gao's whole speech was posted, read on Wednesday, "This content is no longer available due to complaints of violations.”</p>

<p>Youth unemployment in China has been increasing, leaving millions of young people jobless, living at home, relying on delivery jobs, or as the trend says, "pretending to go to work".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Some of the workers in China, including both white-collar and blue-collar, have told Radio Free Asia that they are struggling, despite the state media being pressured to show the positive side of economic news.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;China’s youth unemployment hits record</strong></p>

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<p>Gao further argued that areas with younger populations had seen worse economic performance since the ending of the zero-COVID policy in December 2022 than areas with older populations.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The younger the population of a province, the slower the consumption growth; the older the population of a province, the faster the consumption growth,” Gao said, citing recent economic data.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“This conclusion is somewhat counterintuitive and is summarized ... in three sentences: vibrant older people, lifeless young people, and middle-aged people in despair,” he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He continued that many older people in China have pensions to rely on, whereas, young people are barely contributing to the economy at all.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“For the elderly, ... there will be no impact on their income, and they can continue to enjoy their twilight years and dance in public places,” Gao said.</p>

<p>“For young people, income expectations have been significantly revised downward, the certainty of income growth has been significantly revised downward,” he said. “They can’t find jobs, or the jobs they find are significantly different from their expectations.”</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Internet censors have taken down a speech by prominent Chinese economist Gao Shanwen after he warned that a widespread lack of opportunities for young people was pulling down growth in the country, Radio Free Asia reported.

Internet censors have taken down a speech by prominent Chinese economist Gao Shanwen after he warned that a widespread lack of opportunities for young people was pulling down growth in the country, Radio Free Asia reported. Today, young people in China are tightening their belts and "turning off the lights and eating noodles", instead of following promising careers and contributing their disposable income into the economy, Gao, a chief economist at SDIC Securities, said at an investor conference in Shenzhen on Tuesday. “Turning off the lights and eating noodles” is a catchphrase used to describe someone who is down on their luck after failed investments in the stock market. Gao's statement went viral on social media and was considered insensitive enough to be removed from the "Economist Book Club" public account on WeChat. Also read: China stops releasing youth unemployment data amid disappointing economic figures The WeChat link where Gao's whole speech was posted, read on Wednesday, "This content is no longer available due to complaints of violations.” Youth unemployment in China has been increasing, leaving millions of young people jobless, living at home, relying on delivery jobs, or as the trend says, "pretending to go to work". Some of the workers in China, including both white-collar and blue-collar, have told Radio Free Asia that they are struggling, despite the state media being pressured to show the positive side of economic news. Watch | China’s youth unemployment hits record × Gao further argued that areas with younger populations had seen worse economic performance since the ending of the zero-COVID policy in December 2022 than areas with older populations. “The younger the population of a province, the slower the consumption growth; the older the population of a province, the faster the consumption growth,” Gao said, citing recent economic data. “This conclusion is somewhat counterintuitive and is summarized ... in three sentences: vibrant older people, lifeless young people, and middle-aged people in despair,” he added. He continued that many older people in China have pensions to rely on, whereas, young people are barely contributing to the economy at all. “For the elderly, ... there will be no impact on their income, and they can continue to enjoy their twilight years and dance in public places,” Gao said. “For young people, income expectations have been significantly revised downward, the certainty of income growth has been significantly revised downward,” he said. “They can’t find jobs, or the jobs they find are significantly different from their expectations.” (With inputs from agencies)

China takes down economist's speech on youth unemployment pulling down country's economy

<p>Israel has shared an updated proposal for a hostage deal with the Palestinian militant group Hamas, according to an Axios report, citing two Israeli officials.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The updated proposal is similar to the phased plan under discussion in August, however, it is now focused primarily on getting the first phase done, as per the report.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the updated proposal, Israel is now open to the option of a ceasefire that would last up to 60 days, whereas, earlier, the first stage was only 42 days.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the Axios report, all living female hostages, all living men over 50, and people with serious medical conditions, would be released.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Israel has also reportedly asked for 33 living hostages from these groups, but, believes that there are not that many alive anymore.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-threatens-to-neutralise-hostages-if-israel-launches-rescue-operation-report-781575"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Hamas threatens to 'neutralise' hostages if Israel launches rescue operation: Report</strong></a></p>

<p>Hamas has also shown a new openness to a partial deal, the Israeli officials said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Israel is still willing to release hundreds of Palestinian security prisoners, including some serving life sentences for deadly terror attacks.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, several other senior ministers and security chiefs approved the proposal on Sunday, the report stated. Following this, the proposal was passed to Egypt, who has been involved in the mediation efforts amid the ongoing war, and then presented it to Hamas in Cairo on Monday and Tuesday.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Israel-Hamas War | Chance For Hostage Deal With Hamas: Israeli Defence Minister</strong></p>

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<p>United States President-elect Donald Trump's pick for Middle East adviser Massad Boulos told the French Le Point outlet that "both sides have agreed on the broad outlines of an agreement," The Times of Israel reported.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The war is practically over,” he said, adding, “There is practically no more significant military activity. The only issue that remains is the hostages, and the parties have already agreed on several occasions on an exchange between hostages and Palestinian prisoners.”</p>

<p>Boulos further said that the key lines of the agreement have already been established and there are only very small details to be settled on a few names.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong><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></strong></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Israel has shared an updated proposal for a hostage deal with the Palestinian militant group Hamas, according to an Axios report, citing two Israeli officials. The updated proposal is similar to the phased plan under discussion in August, however, it is now focused primarily on getting the first phase done, as per the report.

Israel has shared an updated proposal for a hostage deal with the Palestinian militant group Hamas, according to an Axios report, citing two Israeli officials. The updated proposal is similar to the phased plan under discussion in August, however, it is now focused primarily on getting the first phase done, as per the report. In the updated proposal, Israel is now open to the option of a ceasefire that would last up to 60 days, whereas, earlier, the first stage was only 42 days. According to the Axios report, all living female hostages, all living men over 50, and people with serious medical conditions, would be released. Israel has also reportedly asked for 33 living hostages from these groups, but, believes that there are not that many alive anymore. Also read: Hamas threatens to 'neutralise' hostages if Israel launches rescue operation: Report Hamas has also shown a new openness to a partial deal, the Israeli officials said. Meanwhile, Israel is still willing to release hundreds of Palestinian security prisoners, including some serving life sentences for deadly terror attacks. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, several other senior ministers and security chiefs approved the proposal on Sunday, the report stated. Following this, the proposal was passed to Egypt, who has been involved in the mediation efforts amid the ongoing war, and then presented it to Hamas in Cairo on Monday and Tuesday. Watch | Israel-Hamas War | Chance For Hostage Deal With Hamas: Israeli Defence Minister × United States President-elect Donald Trump's pick for Middle East adviser Massad Boulos told the French Le Point outlet that "both sides have agreed on the broad outlines of an agreement," The Times of Israel reported. “The war is practically over,” he said, adding, “There is practically no more significant military activity. The only issue that remains is the hostages, and the parties have already agreed on several occasions on an exchange between hostages and Palestinian prisoners.” Boulos further said that the key lines of the agreement have already been established and there are only very small details to be settled on a few names. 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)

Israel submits updated hostage deal proposal to Hamas, now open to ceasefire of up to 60 days: Report

<p>A day after South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol announced martial law in the country, Defence Minister Kim Yong-hyun took responsibility for ordering soldiers to enact the law.</p>

<p>Kim resigned after the South Korean president attempted to implement martial law. On Wednesday, Kim released a statement, taking responsibility for deploying the military.</p>

<p>“All soldiers who performed their duties in relation to the emergency martial law was at the order of the minister, and all responsibilities lie within myself,” Kim said in a text message sent to a reporter, CNN reported.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Martial law has been lifted and the people are recovering daily lives, but local political and security situations are not at ease,” Kim said as he promised that the ministry will take such situation “very strictly” and “stably manage” pending issues.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korea-martial-law-from-imposition-to-yoons-u-turn-heres-how-the-turmoil-unfolded-781323"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;South Korea martial law timeline: Yoon's announcement, protests, U-turn - How events unfolded</strong></a></p>

<p>Yoon's announcement led to protests and rallies by opposition party leaders at the South Korean parliament. Following this, helicopters were seen landing on the building's roof and troops entered the assembly, seemingly in a bid to block lawmakers from getting inside.</p>

<p>South Korea's First Lady Kim Keon-Hee also came under the limelight after the President's move, as she has also faced several allegations and multiple controversies revolving around her.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Who is Kim Keon Hee?</strong></h2>

<p>South Korean First Lady Kim Keon Hee, who is known for her high-profile lifestyle, was born in Yangpyeong, as Kim Myeong-sin. Later, she changed her name to Kim-Keon Hee in 2008.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Her mother, Choi Eun-sun, was acquitted of charges of running an elderly care hospital from 2013 to 2015 without a medical license. She is currently serving a one-year sentence for real estate fraud after she was convicted in 2023.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kim Keon-hee has been surrounded by various controversies in the past. In 2019, there were allegations against her of&nbsp;not paying taxes. She was also under investigation for taking kickbacks for hosting art exhibitions.</p>

<p>In 2021, she was found to be using inaccuracies in her resume while she applied for teaching positions between 2007-2013. However, she publicly apologised later.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;South Korea Turmoil: South Korean President Abandons Martial Law Attempt</strong></p>

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<p>The South Korean first lady was also caught in another controversy for alleged involvement in a 63.6 billion won stock manipulation scheme related to Deutsche Motors. She, however, was not indicted due to a lack of sufficient evidence against her.&nbsp;</p>

<p>She is often referred to as "Kim Keon-hee risk", which means that she can harm her husband's political reputation due to these controversies.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Moreover, in 2022, Korean-American pastor Choi Jae-young secretly filmed Kim, while she was accepting a 3 million won Christian Dior bag, which sparked public outrage. The "Dior bag scandal" put her in the spotlight as South Korea’s anti-graft laws prohibit public officials and their spouses from accepting gifts worth more than $750 related to their official duties.&nbsp;</p>

<p>There are also some accusations that Kim and President Yoon had improper influence over the ruling People Power Party to choose candidates to run for a parliamentary by-election in 2022.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A day after South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol announced martial law in the country, Defence Minister Kim Yong-hyun took responsibility for ordering soldiers to enact the law.

A day after South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol announced martial law in the country, Defence Minister Kim Yong-hyun took responsibility for ordering soldiers to enact the law. Kim resigned after the South Korean president attempted to implement martial law. On Wednesday, Kim released a statement, taking responsibility for deploying the military. “All soldiers who performed their duties in relation to the emergency martial law was at the order of the minister, and all responsibilities lie within myself,” Kim said in a text message sent to a reporter, CNN reported. “Martial law has been lifted and the people are recovering daily lives, but local political and security situations are not at ease,” Kim said as he promised that the ministry will take such situation “very strictly” and “stably manage” pending issues. Also read: South Korea martial law timeline: Yoon's announcement, protests, U-turn - How events unfolded Yoon's announcement led to protests and rallies by opposition party leaders at the South Korean parliament. Following this, helicopters were seen landing on the building's roof and troops entered the assembly, seemingly in a bid to block lawmakers from getting inside. South Korea's First Lady Kim Keon-Hee also came under the limelight after the President's move, as she has also faced several allegations and multiple controversies revolving around her. Who is Kim Keon Hee? South Korean First Lady Kim Keon Hee, who is known for her high-profile lifestyle, was born in Yangpyeong, as Kim Myeong-sin. Later, she changed her name to Kim-Keon Hee in 2008. Her mother, Choi Eun-sun, was acquitted of charges of running an elderly care hospital from 2013 to 2015 without a medical license. She is currently serving a one-year sentence for real estate fraud after she was convicted in 2023. Kim Keon-hee has been surrounded by various controversies in the past. In 2019, there were allegations against her of not paying taxes. She was also under investigation for taking kickbacks for hosting art exhibitions. In 2021, she was found to be using inaccuracies in her resume while she applied for teaching positions between 2007-2013. However, she publicly apologised later. Watch | South Korea Turmoil: South Korean President Abandons Martial Law Attempt × The South Korean first lady was also caught in another controversy for alleged involvement in a 63.6 billion won stock manipulation scheme related to Deutsche Motors. She, however, was not indicted due to a lack of sufficient evidence against her. She is often referred to as "Kim Keon-hee risk", which means that she can harm her husband's political reputation due to these controversies. Moreover, in 2022, Korean-American pastor Choi Jae-young secretly filmed Kim, while she was accepting a 3 million won Christian Dior bag, which sparked public outrage. The "Dior bag scandal" put her in the spotlight as South Korea’s anti-graft laws prohibit public officials and their spouses from accepting gifts worth more than $750 related to their official duties. There are also some accusations that Kim and President Yoon had improper influence over the ruling People Power Party to choose candidates to run for a parliamentary by-election in 2022. (With inputs from agencies)

Who is Kim Keon-hee? Know about South Korea's First Lady and her top controversies

<p>Iran’s most prominent human rights activist Narges Mohammadi has been allowed to leave prison for 21 days to recover from surgery for suspected cancer, and her family criticised the decision as "too little, too late".&nbsp;</p>

<p>An Iranian prosecutor on Tuesday (Dec. 3) suspended Mohammadi's prison term for three weeks. However, her family and lawyers requested a three-month release.&nbsp;</p>

<p>She has now been allowed by the Iranian authorities to recover from an operation she had in November to remove part of a bone in her lower right leg, where doctors discovered a lesion suspected of being cancerous.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iranian-authorities-bar-nobel-laureate-narges-mohammadi-from-attending-fathers-funeral-695294"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Iranian authorities bar Nobel laureate Narges Mohammadi from attending father's funeral</strong></a></p>

<p>Mohammadi has been left "unable to walk," her family told CNN, adding, "She is in an ambulance on her way home."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Moreover, she had to pay the ambulance fee, which was not subsidised by Iranian authorities.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Narges Foundation, which is run by Mohammadi's family, stated, "After over a decade of imprisonment, Narges required specialized medical care in a safe, sanitary environment – a basic human right. As doctors have emphasized, a minimum of three months’ recovery is crucial for her healing.”</p>

<p>They further criticised the ruling as giving her insufficient time to recover.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Nobel Prize winner Narges Mohammadi begins new hunger strike</strong></p>

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<p>The activist has spent most of the past two decades as an inmate of Iran's Evin prison.</p>

<p>She has been accused of acting against national security and spreading propaganda against the state.&nbsp;</p>

<p>She is currently serving multiple sentences totaling more than 30 years.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier in November, her family accused the Iranian regime of trying to bring about her "slow death" by depriving her of the surgery needed to confirm her cancer diagnosis.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Iran’s most prominent human rights activist Narges Mohammadi has been allowed to leave prison for 21 days to recover from surgery for suspected cancer, and her family criticised the decision as "too little, too late".

Iran’s most prominent human rights activist Narges Mohammadi has been allowed to leave prison for 21 days to recover from surgery for suspected cancer, and her family criticised the decision as "too little, too late". An Iranian prosecutor on Tuesday (Dec. 3) suspended Mohammadi's prison term for three weeks. However, her family and lawyers requested a three-month release. She has now been allowed by the Iranian authorities to recover from an operation she had in November to remove part of a bone in her lower right leg, where doctors discovered a lesion suspected of being cancerous. Also read: Iranian authorities bar Nobel laureate Narges Mohammadi from attending father's funeral Mohammadi has been left "unable to walk," her family told CNN, adding, "She is in an ambulance on her way home." Moreover, she had to pay the ambulance fee, which was not subsidised by Iranian authorities. The Narges Foundation, which is run by Mohammadi's family, stated, "After over a decade of imprisonment, Narges required specialized medical care in a safe, sanitary environment – a basic human right. As doctors have emphasized, a minimum of three months’ recovery is crucial for her healing.” They further criticised the ruling as giving her insufficient time to recover. Watch | Nobel Prize winner Narges Mohammadi begins new hunger strike × The activist has spent most of the past two decades as an inmate of Iran's Evin prison. She has been accused of acting against national security and spreading propaganda against the state. She is currently serving multiple sentences totaling more than 30 years. Earlier in November, her family accused the Iranian regime of trying to bring about her "slow death" by depriving her of the surgery needed to confirm her cancer diagnosis. (With inputs from agencies)

Iran temporarily releases Nobel laureate Narges Mohammadi from prison for 21 days after surgery

<p>Maharashtra caretaker Chief Minister Eknath Shinde is set to take the oath as Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra on Thursday (Dec. 5), along with Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) Devendra Fadnavis, who will be sworn in as the Chief Minister, reported Indian news agency ANI.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Shiv Sena leader Shinde will take the oath along with Ajit Pawar as Deputy Chief Ministers, ANI reported, citing Shiv Sena sources.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier, it was decided that Devendra Fadnavis would be the sole leader taking the oath tomorrow as Chief Minister.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Fadnavis will take oath on December 5 at Azad Maidan in Mumbai in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other leaders.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/devendra-fadnavis-to-be-maharashtra-chief-minister-will-take-oath-on-dec-5-781368"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Devendra Fadnavis to be Maharashtra chief minister, will take oath on Dec 5</strong></a></p>

<p>The final decision to confirm Fadnavis's name as the chief minister of India's richest state was taken in the BJP core committee meeting earlier in the day.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Fadnavis, Shinde, and Pawar met Governor CP Radhakrishnan to stake their claim to form the Mahayuti government.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Wednesday decision ended weeks-long deadlock over the CM's name, with incumbent CM Eknath Shinde also said to be staking claim to the top post.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In Maharashtra, BJP's Mahayuti alliance won a landslide majority, winning 230 out of 288 seats in the Assembly last month. BJP’s Devendra Fadnavis, Shiv Sena's Eknath Shinde, and NCP's Ajit Pawar are key leaders of the Mahayuti alliance.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;India: Devendra Fadnavis To Be Sworn In As Maharashtra CM On Dec 5</strong></p>

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<p>Fadnavis was termed by BJP leaders as the architect of this massive victory, with leaders from the BJP recommending his name for the CM's post.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Eknath Shinde on Wednesday expressed satisfaction with the two-and-a-half years of the Mahayuti government in Maharashtra and said, "I am very happy with the completion of two-and-a-half years. The work done by our government--the Mahayuti government--by the three of us and our team in the last 2.5 years is remarkable. It will be written in golden letters in history. We are proud to have taken such significant decisions."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Maharashtra caretaker Chief Minister Eknath Shinde is set to take the oath as Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra on Thursday (Dec. 5), along with Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) Devendra Fadnavis, who will be sworn in as the Chief Minister, reported Indian news agency ANI.

Maharashtra caretaker Chief Minister Eknath Shinde is set to take the oath as Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra on Thursday (Dec. 5), along with Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) Devendra Fadnavis, who will be sworn in as the Chief Minister, reported Indian news agency ANI. Shiv Sena leader Shinde will take the oath along with Ajit Pawar as Deputy Chief Ministers, ANI reported, citing Shiv Sena sources. Earlier, it was decided that Devendra Fadnavis would be the sole leader taking the oath tomorrow as Chief Minister. Fadnavis will take oath on December 5 at Azad Maidan in Mumbai in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other leaders. Also read: Devendra Fadnavis to be Maharashtra chief minister, will take oath on Dec 5 The final decision to confirm Fadnavis's name as the chief minister of India's richest state was taken in the BJP core committee meeting earlier in the day. Fadnavis, Shinde, and Pawar met Governor CP Radhakrishnan to stake their claim to form the Mahayuti government. The Wednesday decision ended weeks-long deadlock over the CM's name, with incumbent CM Eknath Shinde also said to be staking claim to the top post. In Maharashtra, BJP's Mahayuti alliance won a landslide majority, winning 230 out of 288 seats in the Assembly last month. BJP’s Devendra Fadnavis, Shiv Sena's Eknath Shinde, and NCP's Ajit Pawar are key leaders of the Mahayuti alliance. Watch | India: Devendra Fadnavis To Be Sworn In As Maharashtra CM On Dec 5 × Fadnavis was termed by BJP leaders as the architect of this massive victory, with leaders from the BJP recommending his name for the CM's post. Eknath Shinde on Wednesday expressed satisfaction with the two-and-a-half years of the Mahayuti government in Maharashtra and said, "I am very happy with the completion of two-and-a-half years. The work done by our government--the Mahayuti government--by the three of us and our team in the last 2.5 years is remarkable. It will be written in golden letters in history. We are proud to have taken such significant decisions." (With inputs from agencies)

Eknath Shinde to take oath as Maharashtra Dy CM along with Ajit Pawar tomorrow: Report

<p>Israeli opposition leader Yair Lapid accused Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of carrying out "a planned, orchestrated attack" against the Israeli press during an "emergency" conference on freedom of expression in the Knesset State Control Committee.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He further stressed that the Israeli press is "under attack".&nbsp;</p>

<p>"In what country – in what type of country – does the prime minister speak in parliament against the basic idea of a free press? In what sort of country is criticism of the government – the most basic role of the media – labelled as treachery?,” he asked.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Democracy must protect itself. The two basic qualities of a democracy – the qualities that differentiate it from every other type of regime – are its ability to critique itself and to improve itself. Both are impossible without a free press. Both are under attack," Lapid added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-bans-mosque-from-using-loudspeakers-to-broadcast-call-to-prayer-opposition-slams-new-policy-780876"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Israel bans mosques from using loudspeakers to broadcast call to prayer, opposition slams decision</strong></a></p>

<p>Yesh Atid party, led by Yair Lapid, convened the conference&nbsp;called the "Media Freedom Conference" as there has been a rise in the number of moves by the Israeli government that could negatively affect the freedom of the press in the country.&nbsp;</p>

<p>They include&nbsp;bill proposals to privatise and commercialise Israel’s Public Broadcasting Corporation, known as Kan; a government decision to cut all advertising ties to the Haaretz newspaper; an attempt to alter the television rating measurement system; and more, The Jerusalem Post reported.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Lapid further said, “This government doesn't want balance, it wants media like in Hungary, like in Russia – restrained, frightened, submissive, shallow."</p>

<p>He said that these planned attacks come from the top. "Time after time, Netanyahu speaks from the Knesset podium to rail against the media."</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Israel-Lebanon Ceasefire: Israel Bombs Lebanon Amid Truce, Deadliest Strikes Since Ceasefire Began</strong></p>

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<p>Since the government took power in 2022, Israel has fallen 15 spots in Reporters Without Borders' annual press freedom index. But, "that's not enough for this government. It wants us to drop further."</p>

<p>Lapid continued, "They tried to appoint a director-general at Channel 13 who would work for them…and the government voted unanimously to cancel all its advertising in Haaretz."&nbsp;</p>

<p>“If they can end government advertising in Haaretz because of political statements, do you really think they can’t halt advertising on Channel 12? If they can legislate against the public broadcaster, they can’t legislate against Channel 13? Is there anything in the behaviour of this government that makes you believe they’ll stop? That they have red lines?” he asked.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong><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></strong></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Israeli opposition leader Yair Lapid accused Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of carrying out "a planned, orchestrated attack" against the Israeli press during an "emergency" conference on freedom of expression in the Knesset State Control Committee.

Israeli opposition leader Yair Lapid accused Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of carrying out "a planned, orchestrated attack" against the Israeli press during an "emergency" conference on freedom of expression in the Knesset State Control Committee. He further stressed that the Israeli press is "under attack". "In what country – in what type of country – does the prime minister speak in parliament against the basic idea of a free press? In what sort of country is criticism of the government – the most basic role of the media – labelled as treachery?,” he asked. “Democracy must protect itself. The two basic qualities of a democracy – the qualities that differentiate it from every other type of regime – are its ability to critique itself and to improve itself. Both are impossible without a free press. Both are under attack," Lapid added. Also read: Israel bans mosques from using loudspeakers to broadcast call to prayer, opposition slams decision Yesh Atid party, led by Yair Lapid, convened the conference called the "Media Freedom Conference" as there has been a rise in the number of moves by the Israeli government that could negatively affect the freedom of the press in the country. They include bill proposals to privatise and commercialise Israel’s Public Broadcasting Corporation, known as Kan; a government decision to cut all advertising ties to the Haaretz newspaper; an attempt to alter the television rating measurement system; and more, The Jerusalem Post reported. Lapid further said, “This government doesn't want balance, it wants media like in Hungary, like in Russia – restrained, frightened, submissive, shallow." He said that these planned attacks come from the top. "Time after time, Netanyahu speaks from the Knesset podium to rail against the media." Watch | Israel-Lebanon Ceasefire: Israel Bombs Lebanon Amid Truce, Deadliest Strikes Since Ceasefire Began × Since the government took power in 2022, Israel has fallen 15 spots in Reporters Without Borders' annual press freedom index. But, "that's not enough for this government. It wants us to drop further." Lapid continued, "They tried to appoint a director-general at Channel 13 who would work for them…and the government voted unanimously to cancel all its advertising in Haaretz." “If they can end government advertising in Haaretz because of political statements, do you really think they can’t halt advertising on Channel 12? If they can legislate against the public broadcaster, they can’t legislate against Channel 13? Is there anything in the behaviour of this government that makes you believe they’ll stop? That they have red lines?” he asked. 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)

Opposition leader Lapid says Netanyahu carrying out 'planned, orchestrated attack' against Israeli press

<p>Indian taxi aggregator, BluSmart, on Wednesday (Dec 4) apologised after a customer said she and her son were robbed at gunpoint by one of its drivers near Delhi.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This comes a day after the driver, Sonu Singh, was arrested by the Gurugram police.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The 30-year-old woman said that she was travelling in a BluSmart taxi with her six-year-old son on Saturday when the driver pulled a gun on them.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The woman, in her police complaint, said that he forced her to transfer $650 (Rs 55,000) to him through an app before forcing her out of the car.&nbsp;</p>

<p>BluSmart shared an apology on social media, saying, "deeply saddened and disturbed". They also&nbsp;apologised to the woman's family.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/woman-almost-gets-trafficked-after-taking-fake-cab-in-bengaluru-heres-what-happened-774973"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Woman 'almost gets trafficked' after taking fake cab in Bengaluru. Here's what happened</strong></a></p>

<p>The woman said she took a cab to travel from a mall in Gurugram to her house a few kilometres away.&nbsp;</p>

<p>She further alleged that the driver took the money and threw them out of the car. The driver then fled from there with her suitcase, a spokesperson for Gurugram police said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The driver was arrested on Monday after the woman shared the taxi's registration number.</p>

<p>The Indian taxi aggregator BluSmart was founded in 2019 and is a popular ride-sharing app in the capital and its suburbs. Moreover, its fleet is 100 per cent electric vehicles.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The police said that the driver was produced in court and has been remanded to police custody for further investigation.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>'Incident felt personal'</strong></h2>

<p>BluSmart co-founder Anmol Singh Jaggi took to X, saying, the incident felt "personal". "Safety is our foundation," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Jaggi said the company's "exhaustive documentation process" and swift action from its "Quick Response Team" had ensured the driver was caught within 24 hours of the incident.</p>

<p>"We have stringent onboarding processes, including mandatory background checks, face-to-face interviews, and driving tests," the company said in a statement on Tuesday.</p>

<p>The company further said that it was committed to providing the affected family with "all necessary support".</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the police said the probe is ongoing to recover the stolen money.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Indian taxi aggregator, BluSmart, on Wednesday (Dec 4) apologised after a customer said she and her son were robbed at gunpoint by one of its drivers near Delhi.

Indian taxi aggregator, BluSmart, on Wednesday (Dec 4) apologised after a customer said she and her son were robbed at gunpoint by one of its drivers near Delhi. This comes a day after the driver, Sonu Singh, was arrested by the Gurugram police. The 30-year-old woman said that she was travelling in a BluSmart taxi with her six-year-old son on Saturday when the driver pulled a gun on them. The woman, in her police complaint, said that he forced her to transfer $650 (Rs 55,000) to him through an app before forcing her out of the car. BluSmart shared an apology on social media, saying, "deeply saddened and disturbed". They also apologised to the woman's family. Also read: Woman 'almost gets trafficked' after taking fake cab in Bengaluru. Here's what happened The woman said she took a cab to travel from a mall in Gurugram to her house a few kilometres away. She further alleged that the driver took the money and threw them out of the car. The driver then fled from there with her suitcase, a spokesperson for Gurugram police said. The driver was arrested on Monday after the woman shared the taxi's registration number. The Indian taxi aggregator BluSmart was founded in 2019 and is a popular ride-sharing app in the capital and its suburbs. Moreover, its fleet is 100 per cent electric vehicles. The police said that the driver was produced in court and has been remanded to police custody for further investigation. 'Incident felt personal' BluSmart co-founder Anmol Singh Jaggi took to X, saying, the incident felt "personal". "Safety is our foundation," he added. Jaggi said the company's "exhaustive documentation process" and swift action from its "Quick Response Team" had ensured the driver was caught within 24 hours of the incident. "We have stringent onboarding processes, including mandatory background checks, face-to-face interviews, and driving tests," the company said in a statement on Tuesday. The company further said that it was committed to providing the affected family with "all necessary support". Meanwhile, the police said the probe is ongoing to recover the stolen money. (With inputs from agencies)

BluSmart cab driver robs woman at gunpoint in Gurugram, Indian taxi service apologises

<p>In a fresh series of restrictions on Afghan women, medical training, including for midwives and nurses, has reportedly been banned for women, female students told Afghanistan-bases news Khaama Press.&nbsp;</p>

<p>They were further informed to stay home until further notice.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The latest move by the Taliban has effectively closed the last path of further education for women in Afghanistan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Moreover, five separate institutions across the country&nbsp;have also confirmed to BBC that the Taliban had instructed them to close until further notice. Videos have been surfacing showing students crying at the news.</p>

<p>However, the news is yet to be confirmed by the Taliban government's health ministry.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taliban-ban-women-from-hearing-each-others-voice-while-praying-report-771700"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Taliban ban women from hearing each other's voice while praying: Report</strong></a></p>

<p>One of the students from a medical institute in Kabul told Khaama Press that they were prohibited from entering their classrooms and the staff vaguely informed them that “classes are temporarily suspended.”</p>

<p>After the students began protesting, they were told that the Taliban had issued an order to close the institutes until further notice.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>'Another violation of women’s rights to education'</strong></h2>

<p>Robert Dickson, the Charge d’Affaires of the UK Embassy for Afghanistan, condemned the decree. He took to X, stating, "I am deeply concerned about new reports that the Taliban will deny medical education to women in Afghanistan."</p>

<p>“This is another affront to women’s right to education and will further restrict access to health care for Afghan women and children,” the British diplomat added.</p>

<p>After regaining control in Afghanistan, the Taliban have banned women from university education. Moreover, girls are not allowed to attend school after the sixth grade.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, the Taliban have been defending these decrees, saying that they are following the Taliban's interpretation of Islamic law.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Afghan Women Turn to Entrepreneurship Amid Taliban Restrictions</strong></p>

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<p>Afghanistan Women and Children Strengthen Welfare Organization took to X, and said, "This decision denies countless young women the opportunity to pursue careers in medicine, a field where they have historically played a vital role, particularly in providing healthcare to women and children."</p>

<p>"The ban further cripples Afghanistan’s already fragile healthcare system, which relies heavily on female medical professionals to address the needs of its population. With maternal mortality rates among the highest in the world, the absence of female healthcare workers will have catastrophic consequences for women’s health,” it added.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


In a fresh series of restrictions on Afghan women, medical training, including for midwives and nurses, has reportedly been banned for women, female students told Afghanistan-bases news Khaama Press.

In a fresh series of restrictions on Afghan women, medical training, including for midwives and nurses, has reportedly been banned for women, female students told Afghanistan-bases news Khaama Press. They were further informed to stay home until further notice. The latest move by the Taliban has effectively closed the last path of further education for women in Afghanistan. Moreover, five separate institutions across the country have also confirmed to BBC that the Taliban had instructed them to close until further notice. Videos have been surfacing showing students crying at the news. However, the news is yet to be confirmed by the Taliban government's health ministry. Also read: Taliban ban women from hearing each other's voice while praying: Report One of the students from a medical institute in Kabul told Khaama Press that they were prohibited from entering their classrooms and the staff vaguely informed them that “classes are temporarily suspended.” After the students began protesting, they were told that the Taliban had issued an order to close the institutes until further notice. 'Another violation of women’s rights to education' Robert Dickson, the Charge d’Affaires of the UK Embassy for Afghanistan, condemned the decree. He took to X, stating, "I am deeply concerned about new reports that the Taliban will deny medical education to women in Afghanistan." “This is another affront to women’s right to education and will further restrict access to health care for Afghan women and children,” the British diplomat added. After regaining control in Afghanistan, the Taliban have banned women from university education. Moreover, girls are not allowed to attend school after the sixth grade. However, the Taliban have been defending these decrees, saying that they are following the Taliban's interpretation of Islamic law. Watch | Afghan Women Turn to Entrepreneurship Amid Taliban Restrictions × Afghanistan Women and Children Strengthen Welfare Organization took to X, and said, "This decision denies countless young women the opportunity to pursue careers in medicine, a field where they have historically played a vital role, particularly in providing healthcare to women and children." "The ban further cripples Afghanistan’s already fragile healthcare system, which relies heavily on female medical professionals to address the needs of its population. With maternal mortality rates among the highest in the world, the absence of female healthcare workers will have catastrophic consequences for women’s health,” it added. (With inputs from agencies)

Afghan women 'banned from midwife and nurse education' in Taliban's new decree: Report

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