<p>Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir has instructed police to ban mosques from broadcasting the Adhan, or Islamic call to prayer over loudspeakers, confirmed a Channel 12 report.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He further directed the police to confiscate the loudspeaker equipment found to be used in the mosques, according to the report.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The mosques found to be using the loudspeakers to call for prayer would also be fined.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ben Gvir in a post on X, said that he is "proud" to introduce the policy, which according to him, will put an end to the "unreasonable noise from mosques, which has&nbsp;become a hazard for the residents of Israel.”</p>

<p>“In our debates, it arose that most Western countries, and even some Arab countries, limit the noise and have many laws on the matter. It’s only neglected in Israel,” Ben Gvir’s office said in a statement.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/clashes-erupt-again-at-jerusalems-al-aqsa-mosque-six-injured-579598"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Clashes erupt again at Jerusalem's Al-Aqsa Mosque, six injured</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>Policy condemned by opposition</strong></h2>

<p>However, the members of Israel's opposition have condemned the policy, including Labor MK Gilad Kariv, who posted on X, saying that Ben Gvir "endangers the State of Israel” and warns that he “won’t stop until in the end, a match sets the barrel on fire.”</p>

<p>Moreover, the leader of the United Arab List condemned the decision and accused Ben Gvir of fuelling divisions and targeting mosques after failing to provoke violence at Jerusalem's Al-Aqsa Mosque.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Ben Gvir is constantly trying to sabotage coexistence," Abbas wrote on X.</p>

<h2><strong>'War on Islam and Christianity'</strong></h2>

<p>The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) also condemned the ban and called for Muslim-majority nations to take concrete action to end the Israeli government’s genocide.</p>

<p>“A war on Islam and Christianity has always been a major component of the far-right Israeli government’s genocide targeting the Palestinian people. Attacks on mosques, churches, cultural sites, and religious texts are all part of the decades-long Israeli campaign to erase Palestinian culture," CAIR National Executive Director Nihad Awad said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war: Al Aqsa Mosque video a dangerous escalation: Hamas</strong></p>

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<p>"We repeat our call on Muslim-majority nations to use their collective power and take concrete actions to end this genocide," Awad added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He further said that the Biden administration must speak out strongly to condemn the videotaped burning of copies of the Quran and destruction of mosques by Israeli soldiers in Gaza, adding that the US should end sending weapons to the Israeli government to force an end to the genocide.&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 National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir has instructed police to ban mosques from broadcasting the Adhan, or Islamic call to prayer over loudspeakers, confirmed a Channel 12 report.

Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir has instructed police to ban mosques from broadcasting the Adhan, or Islamic call to prayer over loudspeakers, confirmed a Channel 12 report. He further directed the police to confiscate the loudspeaker equipment found to be used in the mosques, according to the report. The mosques found to be using the loudspeakers to call for prayer would also be fined. Ben Gvir in a post on X, said that he is "proud" to introduce the policy, which according to him, will put an end to the "unreasonable noise from mosques, which has become a hazard for the residents of Israel.” “In our debates, it arose that most Western countries, and even some Arab countries, limit the noise and have many laws on the matter. It’s only neglected in Israel,” Ben Gvir’s office said in a statement. Also read: Clashes erupt again at Jerusalem's Al-Aqsa Mosque, six injured Policy condemned by opposition However, the members of Israel's opposition have condemned the policy, including Labor MK Gilad Kariv, who posted on X, saying that Ben Gvir "endangers the State of Israel” and warns that he “won’t stop until in the end, a match sets the barrel on fire.” Moreover, the leader of the United Arab List condemned the decision and accused Ben Gvir of fuelling divisions and targeting mosques after failing to provoke violence at Jerusalem's Al-Aqsa Mosque. "Ben Gvir is constantly trying to sabotage coexistence," Abbas wrote on X. 'War on Islam and Christianity' The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) also condemned the ban and called for Muslim-majority nations to take concrete action to end the Israeli government’s genocide. “A war on Islam and Christianity has always been a major component of the far-right Israeli government’s genocide targeting the Palestinian people. Attacks on mosques, churches, cultural sites, and religious texts are all part of the decades-long Israeli campaign to erase Palestinian culture," CAIR National Executive Director Nihad Awad said. Watch | Israel-Hamas war: Al Aqsa Mosque video a dangerous escalation: Hamas × "We repeat our call on Muslim-majority nations to use their collective power and take concrete actions to end this genocide," Awad added. He further said that the Biden administration must speak out strongly to condemn the videotaped burning of copies of the Quran and destruction of mosques by Israeli soldiers in Gaza, adding that the US should end sending weapons to the Israeli government to force an end to the genocide. 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 bans mosques from using loudspeakers to broadcast call to prayer, opposition slams decision

<p>The missing US-Israeli soldier Omer Maxim Neutra was killed in the Hamas's attack on southern Israel on October 7 last year, and his body is being held hostage in the Gaza Strip, the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) confirmed on Monday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The 21-year-old lone soldier from New York served as a tank platoon commander in the 7th Armored Brigade's 77th Battalion.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He was called a "lone soldier" because his parents were not in Israel.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Until the IDF confirmed his killing, it was believed that Neutra was alive and being held hostage by Hamas.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-publishes-video-of-israeli-american-hostage-pleading-for-trumps-help-in-securing-release-780558"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Hamas publishes video of Israeli-American hostage pleading for Trump's help in securing release</strong></a></p>

<p>On the day of the attack last year, October 7, he was stationed in a tank on the Gaza border near the southern community of Nahal Oz.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During the attack, their tank was attacked by the Hamas group with RPG fire and explosive devices. Then, the four people, including Neutra, Sgt. Shaked Dahan, the driver, Sgt. Nimrod Cohen, the gunner, and Sgt. Oz Daniel, the loader, were abducted to Gaza.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Dahan's death was confirmed in November, while Daniel's death was confirmed in February.</p>

<p>Now, after 14 months of the deadly attack, Neutra's death has been confirmed by the Israeli military.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Israel-Lebanon War: Thousands Protest In Tel Aviv Demanding Release Of Hostages</strong></p>

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<p>However, nothing has been confirmed about Cohen. His father on Monday told Ynet news, "We have received indications that Nimrod is alive. I am sure my son is alive, and I am fighting.”</p>

<p>Neutra’s death was declared by the Military Rabbinate based on findings and new intelligence information, according to the IDF.</p>

<p>His family spoke with him last on October 6. Later, when his parents, Ronen and Orna, heard what was happening on October 7, Neutra's father tried contacting his son.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The mother of Neutra, Ronen, told CBS News that her&nbsp;son was interested in peace-building and had looked forward to returning to Long Island and college.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“They said that he’s been taken captive,” said Orna Neutra. “So many have died that it’s just insane that you feel relief to think that your son is not dead, you know?" Orna said.</p>

<p>Reportedly, 97 of the 251 hostages taken by Hamas on October 7, are still in Gaza, including the bodies of at least 35 confirmed dead by the Israeli military.&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>


The missing US-Israeli soldier Omer Maxim Neutra was killed in the Hamas's attack on southern Israel on October 7 last year, and his body is being held hostage in the Gaza Strip, the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) confirmed on Monday.

The missing US-Israeli soldier Omer Maxim Neutra was killed in the Hamas's attack on southern Israel on October 7 last year, and his body is being held hostage in the Gaza Strip, the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) confirmed on Monday. The 21-year-old lone soldier from New York served as a tank platoon commander in the 7th Armored Brigade's 77th Battalion. He was called a "lone soldier" because his parents were not in Israel. Until the IDF confirmed his killing, it was believed that Neutra was alive and being held hostage by Hamas. Also read: Hamas publishes video of Israeli-American hostage pleading for Trump's help in securing release On the day of the attack last year, October 7, he was stationed in a tank on the Gaza border near the southern community of Nahal Oz. During the attack, their tank was attacked by the Hamas group with RPG fire and explosive devices. Then, the four people, including Neutra, Sgt. Shaked Dahan, the driver, Sgt. Nimrod Cohen, the gunner, and Sgt. Oz Daniel, the loader, were abducted to Gaza. Dahan's death was confirmed in November, while Daniel's death was confirmed in February. Now, after 14 months of the deadly attack, Neutra's death has been confirmed by the Israeli military. Watch | Israel-Lebanon War: Thousands Protest In Tel Aviv Demanding Release Of Hostages × However, nothing has been confirmed about Cohen. His father on Monday told Ynet news, "We have received indications that Nimrod is alive. I am sure my son is alive, and I am fighting.” Neutra’s death was declared by the Military Rabbinate based on findings and new intelligence information, according to the IDF. His family spoke with him last on October 6. Later, when his parents, Ronen and Orna, heard what was happening on October 7, Neutra's father tried contacting his son. The mother of Neutra, Ronen, told CBS News that her son was interested in peace-building and had looked forward to returning to Long Island and college. “They said that he’s been taken captive,” said Orna Neutra. “So many have died that it’s just insane that you feel relief to think that your son is not dead, you know?" Orna said. Reportedly, 97 of the 251 hostages taken by Hamas on October 7, are still in Gaza, including the bodies of at least 35 confirmed dead by the Israeli military. 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)

US-Israeli hostage Cpt Omer Neutra killed on Oct 7, body held by Hamas in Gaza, confirms IDF

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin will visit India on the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Kremlin aide Yury Ushakov said. The dates will be announced in early 2025, according to the Russian Embassy in India.&nbsp;</p>

<p>PM Modi and Russian President Putin have agreements to hold meetings once a year and it is Russia's turn this time, Ushakov said in a briefing.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Our leaders have an agreement to hold meetings once a year. This time, it's our turn." He further said, "We received Mr. Modi's invitation and we will certainly consider it positively," the diplomat said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He added, "We will figure out the tentative dates early next year."</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-president-putin-expected-to-visit-india-soon-says-kremlin-spokesperson-777357"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Russian President Putin expected to visit India soon, says Kremlin spokesperson</strong></a></p>

<p>According to the Russian embassy, the two leaders remain in regular contact and have been holding talks over phone calls once every couple of months.&nbsp;</p>

<p>PM Modi, during the 16th BRICS Summit in Kazan, extended an invitation to Putin to visit India for the 23rd India-Russia Annual Summit next year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Later, the Prime Minister's office released a statement stating that both leaders conducted a comprehensive review of bilateral cooperation in several domains, including political, economic, defence, energy, and people-to-people connections.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;BRICS Summit 2024: Indian PM Holds Bilateral Talk With Putin In Kazan</strong></p>

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<p>PM Modi and Putin exchanged views on India-Russia engagement in multilateral forums, in particular in BRICS, according to the press release.&nbsp;</p>

<p>PM Modi also said that his two visits to Russia in the last three months reflect close coordination and deep friendship between the two countries.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The two leaders met twice this year. PM Modi paid an official visit to Russia in July, marking his first bilateral visit after resuming office for the third time.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He was also conferred with Russia's highest national award, "The Order of St. Andrew the Apostle," for his contribution to fostering India-Russia ties.</p>

<p>His second visit was for the 16th BRICS Summit in October. He thanked Putin for the invitation and the hospitality.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Russian President Vladimir Putin will visit India on the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Kremlin aide Yury Ushakov said. The dates will be announced in early 2025, according to the Russian Embassy in India.

Russian President Vladimir Putin will visit India on the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Kremlin aide Yury Ushakov said. The dates will be announced in early 2025, according to the Russian Embassy in India. PM Modi and Russian President Putin have agreements to hold meetings once a year and it is Russia's turn this time, Ushakov said in a briefing. "Our leaders have an agreement to hold meetings once a year. This time, it's our turn." He further said, "We received Mr. Modi's invitation and we will certainly consider it positively," the diplomat said. He added, "We will figure out the tentative dates early next year." Also read: Russian President Putin expected to visit India soon, says Kremlin spokesperson According to the Russian embassy, the two leaders remain in regular contact and have been holding talks over phone calls once every couple of months. PM Modi, during the 16th BRICS Summit in Kazan, extended an invitation to Putin to visit India for the 23rd India-Russia Annual Summit next year. Later, the Prime Minister's office released a statement stating that both leaders conducted a comprehensive review of bilateral cooperation in several domains, including political, economic, defence, energy, and people-to-people connections. Watch | BRICS Summit 2024: Indian PM Holds Bilateral Talk With Putin In Kazan × PM Modi and Putin exchanged views on India-Russia engagement in multilateral forums, in particular in BRICS, according to the press release. PM Modi also said that his two visits to Russia in the last three months reflect close coordination and deep friendship between the two countries. The two leaders met twice this year. PM Modi paid an official visit to Russia in July, marking his first bilateral visit after resuming office for the third time. He was also conferred with Russia's highest national award, "The Order of St. Andrew the Apostle," for his contribution to fostering India-Russia ties. His second visit was for the 16th BRICS Summit in October. He thanked Putin for the invitation and the hospitality. (With inputs from agencies)

Russian President Putin to visit India on PM Modi's invitation, dates to be announced in early 2025: Kremlin

<p>The Mahayuti alliance leaders met with Union Home Minister Amit Shah at his residence on Thursday (November 28) after days of discussions. The alliance meeting held to pick the new Maharashtra chief minister went on for over two hours, but no formal announcement on the next CM's name was made. Reports said the name will be announced after the legislators' meeting in Mumbai in the presence of BJP observers from Delhi.</p>

<p>Maharashtra’s caretaker Chief Minister and Shiv Sena chief&nbsp;Eknath Shinde, former CM and BJP leader Devendra Fadnavis, and Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader Ajit Pawar were there to hold discussions with Amit Shah in the&nbsp;presence of JP Nadda. NCP leader Praful Patel was also present at the meeting.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Before the meeting, caretaker CM Eknath Shinde arrived in the national capital on Thursday and met Amit Shah at his residence, where BJP national president JP Nadda was already there.<br />
<br />
As per reports, discussions were also held&nbsp;on the allocation of ministries and portfolios among the alliance partners.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/the-maha-battle-shinde-says-told-pm-modi-to-take-decision-amid-suspense-over-cm-post-779637"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;The ‘Maha’ battle: Shinde says told PM Modi to take decision amid suspense over CM post</strong></a></p>

<p>Earlier on Wednesday, while addressing a presser over CM suspense, Shinde said, “The huge amount of votes we received was only because of the work we did. We are really the real brothers of our 'Laadli Behens', and they kept this in mind before voting.”</p>

<p>“I am not the kind who gets upset, we are the kind of people who fight, fight for the people,” Shinde added. “All the work I do, I will do for the people of Maharashtra. What is important is not what I get, but what the people of the state get,” Shinde said.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Maharashtra News: Who Will Be The Next Chief Minister Of Maharashtra?</strong></p>

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<p>Results were announced for the assembly elections in Maharashtra on November 23, in which the Mahayuti alliance registered a landslide victory. The alliance won 235 of the total 288 seats, with BJP alone contributing 132 seats. Fadnavis is now being termed by BJP leaders as the architect of this massive victory, with party leaders recommending his name for the CM's post.</p>

<p>However, the leaders of Shiv Sena (Shinde faction) are rooting for Eknath Shinde. The Mahayuti alliance had Shinde as their chief minister in the previous term.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The Mahayuti alliance leaders met with Union Home Minister Amit Shah at his residence on Thursday (November 28) after days of discussions. The alliance meeting held to pick the new Maharashtra chief minister went on for over two hours, but no formal announcement on the next CM's name was made.

The Mahayuti alliance leaders met with Union Home Minister Amit Shah at his residence on Thursday (November 28) after days of discussions. The alliance meeting held to pick the new Maharashtra chief minister went on for over two hours, but no formal announcement on the next CM's name was made. Reports said the name will be announced after the legislators' meeting in Mumbai in the presence of BJP observers from Delhi. Maharashtra’s caretaker Chief Minister and Shiv Sena chief Eknath Shinde, former CM and BJP leader Devendra Fadnavis, and Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader Ajit Pawar were there to hold discussions with Amit Shah in the presence of JP Nadda. NCP leader Praful Patel was also present at the meeting. Before the meeting, caretaker CM Eknath Shinde arrived in the national capital on Thursday and met Amit Shah at his residence, where BJP national president JP Nadda was already there. As per reports, discussions were also held on the allocation of ministries and portfolios among the alliance partners. Also read: The ‘Maha’ battle: Shinde says told PM Modi to take decision amid suspense over CM post Earlier on Wednesday, while addressing a presser over CM suspense, Shinde said, “The huge amount of votes we received was only because of the work we did. We are really the real brothers of our 'Laadli Behens', and they kept this in mind before voting.” “I am not the kind who gets upset, we are the kind of people who fight, fight for the people,” Shinde added. “All the work I do, I will do for the people of Maharashtra. What is important is not what I get, but what the people of the state get,” Shinde said. Watch | Maharashtra News: Who Will Be The Next Chief Minister Of Maharashtra? × Results were announced for the assembly elections in Maharashtra on November 23, in which the Mahayuti alliance registered a landslide victory. The alliance won 235 of the total 288 seats, with BJP alone contributing 132 seats. Fadnavis is now being termed by BJP leaders as the architect of this massive victory, with party leaders recommending his name for the CM's post. However, the leaders of Shiv Sena (Shinde faction) are rooting for Eknath Shinde. The Mahayuti alliance had Shinde as their chief minister in the previous term. (With inputs from agencies)

Mahayuti alliance leaders meet at Amit Shah's residence to decide Maharashtra CM, suspense continues

<p>Russian Defence Minister Andrei Belousov on Friday (Nov 29) said that the ties with North Korea are "expanding in all areas, including in military cooperation."</p>

<p>Belousov is on a visit to Pyongyang and met with his North Korean counterpart No Kwang Chol in the North Korean capital city.</p>

<p>“Friendly ties between Russia and North Korea are actively expanding in all areas, including military cooperation,” Belousov said, reported Russian news agencies.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During the talks with his North Korean counterpart, Belousov also said that the trust-based relations between the countries' leaders play a crucial role in strengthening Russian-Korean cooperation.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-ratifies-historic-defence-pact-with-russia-strengthening-military-ties-775499"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;North Korea ratifies historic defence pact with Russia, strengthening military ties</strong></a></p>

<p>The Russian minister also congratulated his counterpart&nbsp;on his appointment as head of the North Korean Defence Ministry in October 2024.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It is a pleasure to meet you and get to know you personally. I would like to thank you for the invitation to Pyongyang and your generous hospitality," Belousov said. "Russia and North Korea are good neighbors and longtime friends," he added.</p>

<p>Belousov also&nbsp;noted, "the historic meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un in Pyongyang in June 2024 showed the highest level of mutual trust," emphasizing that its outcome demonstrated "the countries' shared desire to further expand mutually beneficial cooperation amid a complex international situation."</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Russia Sends Animals to Pyongyang Amid Strengthening Ties with Kim Jong-Un</strong></p>

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<p>"The most important outcome of the summit was the signing of a new fundamental interstate document - the Treaty on Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between Russia and North Korea," the Russian defence minister added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Recently, North Korea has been accused of supplying artillery systems, missiles and other military equipment to Russia that may assist Putin in extending the war with Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, South Korea has also shared concerns that the North&nbsp;could receive Russian technology transfer to improve its nuclear weapons and missile programs, in exchange for its troops and arms supplies.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Russian Defence Minister Andrei Belousov on Friday (Nov 29) said that the ties with North Korea are "expanding in all areas, including in military cooperation." Belousov is on a visit to Pyongyang and met with his North Korean counterpart No Kwang Chol in the North Korean capital city.

Russian Defence Minister Andrei Belousov on Friday (Nov 29) said that the ties with North Korea are "expanding in all areas, including in military cooperation." Belousov is on a visit to Pyongyang and met with his North Korean counterpart No Kwang Chol in the North Korean capital city. “Friendly ties between Russia and North Korea are actively expanding in all areas, including military cooperation,” Belousov said, reported Russian news agencies. During the talks with his North Korean counterpart, Belousov also said that the trust-based relations between the countries' leaders play a crucial role in strengthening Russian-Korean cooperation. Also read: North Korea ratifies historic defence pact with Russia, strengthening military ties The Russian minister also congratulated his counterpart on his appointment as head of the North Korean Defence Ministry in October 2024. "It is a pleasure to meet you and get to know you personally. I would like to thank you for the invitation to Pyongyang and your generous hospitality," Belousov said. "Russia and North Korea are good neighbors and longtime friends," he added. Belousov also noted, "the historic meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un in Pyongyang in June 2024 showed the highest level of mutual trust," emphasizing that its outcome demonstrated "the countries' shared desire to further expand mutually beneficial cooperation amid a complex international situation." Watch | Russia Sends Animals to Pyongyang Amid Strengthening Ties with Kim Jong-Un × "The most important outcome of the summit was the signing of a new fundamental interstate document - the Treaty on Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between Russia and North Korea," the Russian defence minister added. Recently, North Korea has been accused of supplying artillery systems, missiles and other military equipment to Russia that may assist Putin in extending the war with Ukraine. Meanwhile, South Korea has also shared concerns that the North could receive Russian technology transfer to improve its nuclear weapons and missile programs, in exchange for its troops and arms supplies. (With inputs from agencies)

'Expanding in all areas': Russian defence minister hails ties with North Korea amid visit to Pyongyang

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday (Nov. 28) threatened to strike its new Oreshnik hypersonic missile at the “decision-making centres” in Ukraine's capital Kyiv.</p>

<p>Putin made the threat a week after using the experimental weapon for the first time in the Ukrainian city of Dnipro.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We do not rule out the use of Oreshnik against the military, military-industrial facilities or decision-making centres, including in Kyiv," Putin said during a press conference in the Kazakh capital Astana.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/despicable-escalation-russian-strikes-on-ukrainian-power-grid-knock-out-power-for-1-million-779894"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;'Despicable escalation,' Russian strikes on Ukrainian power grid knock out power for 1 million</strong></a></p>

<p>"Authorities in Kyiv today continue their attempts to strike at our vital facilities, including in Saint Petersburg and Moscow," he added.</p>

<p>He further announced Russia's plans to further increase the production of Oreshnik missiles, which Putin claims are impossible to intercept.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The intermediate-range ballistic missile can travel at a speed of Mach 10, or up to three kilometres per second.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Putin added that the weapon had the destructive power of a meteorite. "The kinetic impact is powerful, like a meteorite falling. We know in history what meteorites have fallen where, and what the consequences were. Sometimes it was enough for whole lakes to form."</p>

<h2><strong>'Minimal' damage caused by US-made missiles</strong></h2>

<p>Putin said that the damage caused by recent Ukrainian attacks in Russia using US-made ATACMS missiles was "minimal".&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Putin Warns West: You Can't Stop This Missile</strong></p>

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<p>He further said the use of Western-supplied missiles against Moscow amounted to "direct involvement of Western countries" in the conflict and carried "risks".</p>

<h2><strong>Putin calls Trump 'intelligent'</strong></h2>

<p>The Russian President called US President-elect Donald Trump an "intelligent person", adding that he will find a solution. Although Putin did not specify what solution he was referring to.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"As far as I imagine the again-elected president, he is actually an intelligent person, already quite experienced. I think he will find a solution," Putin said about Trump during the Kazan conference.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>'Will not allow Ukraine...'</strong></h2>

<p>At the conference in Kazakhastan, Putin also said that he would not let Ukraine ever get hold of nuclear weapons.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Moscow will use "all means of destruction at Russia's disposal" were Ukraine to ever get hold of nuclear weapons, Russia's state-run news agency RIA Novosti reported.</p>

<p>"We will not allow this," Putin said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong><em>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos, and videos.</em></strong></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday (Nov. 28) threatened to strike its new Oreshnik hypersonic missile at the “decision-making centres” in Ukraine's capital Kyiv.

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday (Nov. 28) threatened to strike its new Oreshnik hypersonic missile at the “decision-making centres” in Ukraine's capital Kyiv. Putin made the threat a week after using the experimental weapon for the first time in the Ukrainian city of Dnipro. "We do not rule out the use of Oreshnik against the military, military-industrial facilities or decision-making centres, including in Kyiv," Putin said during a press conference in the Kazakh capital Astana. Also read: 'Despicable escalation,' Russian strikes on Ukrainian power grid knock out power for 1 million "Authorities in Kyiv today continue their attempts to strike at our vital facilities, including in Saint Petersburg and Moscow," he added. He further announced Russia's plans to further increase the production of Oreshnik missiles, which Putin claims are impossible to intercept. The intermediate-range ballistic missile can travel at a speed of Mach 10, or up to three kilometres per second. Putin added that the weapon had the destructive power of a meteorite. "The kinetic impact is powerful, like a meteorite falling. We know in history what meteorites have fallen where, and what the consequences were. Sometimes it was enough for whole lakes to form." 'Minimal' damage caused by US-made missiles Putin said that the damage caused by recent Ukrainian attacks in Russia using US-made ATACMS missiles was "minimal". Watch | Putin Warns West: You Can't Stop This Missile × He further said the use of Western-supplied missiles against Moscow amounted to "direct involvement of Western countries" in the conflict and carried "risks". Putin calls Trump 'intelligent' The Russian President called US President-elect Donald Trump an "intelligent person", adding that he will find a solution. Although Putin did not specify what solution he was referring to. "As far as I imagine the again-elected president, he is actually an intelligent person, already quite experienced. I think he will find a solution," Putin said about Trump during the Kazan conference. 'Will not allow Ukraine...' At the conference in Kazakhastan, Putin also said that he would not let Ukraine ever get hold of nuclear weapons. "Moscow will use "all means of destruction at Russia's disposal" were Ukraine to ever get hold of nuclear weapons, Russia's state-run news agency RIA Novosti reported. "We will not allow this," Putin said. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos, and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Putin threatens to hit 'decision-making centres' in Kyiv, plans to increase production of Oreshnik missiles

<p>The Israeli military issued fresh warnings to Lebanon’s citizens on Friday (Nov 29), not to return to 60 villages in the south of the country, as the Israel-Hezbollah ceasefire appeared to hold.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The military warned the residents of towns on both sides of the Israel-Lebanon border not to return to their homes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) issued a map, showing more than 60 villages in southern Lebanon, that it asked to remain off-limits to civilians, adding that anyone who did would be putting themselves in danger.</p>

<p>Avichay Adraee, a military spokesman issued a statement saying that the Israeli military "does not intend to target you and therefore you are prohibited at this stage from returning to your homes."&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ceasefire-with-hezbollah-violated-as-more-suspects-enter-southern-lebanon-claims-israel-779910"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Israel says ceasefire with Hezbollah breached as 'more suspects enter southern Lebanon'</strong></a></p>

<p>However, as per the ceasefire deal, the Israeli forces will withdraw from southern Lebanon over the next 60 days.</p>

<p>The Israeli military was enforcing restrictions on returning with gunfire and shelling, Lebanon's state-run news agency reported.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It further stated that Israeli tanks shelled a building in Burj-al-Moulouk in southern Lebanon.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, the Israeli military declined to comment on those reports.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Israel Gaza War: Gaza Waits For A Ceasefire Amid Israeli Airstrikes | World News | WION</strong></p>

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<p>The IDF also issued a general warning to the residents of border towns in Israel, which had been on the target list of Hezbollah for months, and told them the border region remained under a "general closure".&nbsp;</p>

<p>The ceasefire deal was approved on Wednesday morning, however, the officials in Israel and Lebanon have accused each other of breaching it.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier on Thursday, the Israeli military said that its forces fired artillery and also carried out air strikes against targets in southern Lebanon.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Later, Lebanon accused Israel of violating the ceasefire agreement "multiple times", adding that they are monitoring the situation.&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>


The Israeli military issued fresh warnings to Lebanon’s citizens on Friday (Nov 29), not to return to 60 villages in the south of the country, as the Israel-Hezbollah ceasefire appeared to hold.

The Israeli military issued fresh warnings to Lebanon’s citizens on Friday (Nov 29), not to return to 60 villages in the south of the country, as the Israel-Hezbollah ceasefire appeared to hold. The military warned the residents of towns on both sides of the Israel-Lebanon border not to return to their homes. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) issued a map, showing more than 60 villages in southern Lebanon, that it asked to remain off-limits to civilians, adding that anyone who did would be putting themselves in danger. Avichay Adraee, a military spokesman issued a statement saying that the Israeli military "does not intend to target you and therefore you are prohibited at this stage from returning to your homes." Also read: Israel says ceasefire with Hezbollah breached as 'more suspects enter southern Lebanon' However, as per the ceasefire deal, the Israeli forces will withdraw from southern Lebanon over the next 60 days. The Israeli military was enforcing restrictions on returning with gunfire and shelling, Lebanon's state-run news agency reported. It further stated that Israeli tanks shelled a building in Burj-al-Moulouk in southern Lebanon. However, the Israeli military declined to comment on those reports. Watch | Israel Gaza War: Gaza Waits For A Ceasefire Amid Israeli Airstrikes | World News | WION × The IDF also issued a general warning to the residents of border towns in Israel, which had been on the target list of Hezbollah for months, and told them the border region remained under a "general closure". The ceasefire deal was approved on Wednesday morning, however, the officials in Israel and Lebanon have accused each other of breaching it. Earlier on Thursday, the Israeli military said that its forces fired artillery and also carried out air strikes against targets in southern Lebanon. Later, Lebanon accused Israel of violating the ceasefire agreement "multiple times", adding that they are monitoring the situation. 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 warns Lebanese civilians to not return to over 60 southern villages

<p>India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Friday (Nov 29) said that Bangladesh's Muhammad Yunus-led interim government is responsible for protecting all Bangladesh citizens, including minorities.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This comes amid a rise in violent activities against minorities in Bangladesh, including Hindus.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Government have taken a serious note of these incidents and shared its concerns with the Government of Bangladesh," Jaishankar made the statement in response to a question in the Lok Sabha (lower house of the Indian parliament).&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Reports of attacks on temples and puja mandaps also came to light during the recent Durga Puja festival in Bangladesh... Following these attacks, the Government of Bangladesh had issued instructions for providing special security including deployment of Army and Border Guards Bangladesh to ensure peaceful celebrations of Durga Puja," he added.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/iskcon-clarifies-stance-on-hindu-priest-chinmoy-krishna-das-arrest-in-bangladesh-not-distancing-780125"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;ISKCON clarifies stance on Hindu priest Chinmoy Krishna Das' arrest in Bangladesh: 'Not distancing...'</strong></a></p>

<p>"The primary responsibility for the protection of life and liberty of all citizens of Bangladesh, including minorities, rests with the Government of Bangladesh," India's foreign minister&nbsp;stressed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This also comes during the time as there have been protests in Bangladesh over the arrest of the former priest of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) Bangladesh, Chinmoy Krishna Das Brahmachari, on sedition charges.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He was accused of hoisting a saffron flag above the Bangladesh national flag during a rally in October.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Bangladesh: Clashes Erupt As Iskcon Leader Chinmoy Krishna Das Arrested | World DNA</strong></p>

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<p>Today at a briefing, Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said that cases against individuals and legal processes are underway.</p>

<p>"As far as the arrest of Chinmoy Das is concerned, we have made our statement on that... Cases against individuals and legal processes are underway. We hope and expect that these processes will be dealt with in a fair, just and transparent manner ensuring full respect for these individuals and all those who are concerned...," Jaiswal said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He added, "We are concerned about the surge of extremist rhetoric. Increasing incidents of violence and provocation cannot be dismissed merely as media exaggerations. We call upon Bangladesh to take steps for the protection of minorities..."</p>

<p>Indian political leaders have been raising concerns over the arrest of the&nbsp;Hindu monk and also issued an appeal to Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government to intervene.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Friday (Nov 29) said that Bangladesh's Muhammad Yunus-led interim government is responsible for protecting all Bangladesh citizens, including minorities.

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Friday (Nov 29) said that Bangladesh's Muhammad Yunus-led interim government is responsible for protecting all Bangladesh citizens, including minorities. This comes amid a rise in violent activities against minorities in Bangladesh, including Hindus. "Government have taken a serious note of these incidents and shared its concerns with the Government of Bangladesh," Jaishankar made the statement in response to a question in the Lok Sabha (lower house of the Indian parliament). "Reports of attacks on temples and puja mandaps also came to light during the recent Durga Puja festival in Bangladesh... Following these attacks, the Government of Bangladesh had issued instructions for providing special security including deployment of Army and Border Guards Bangladesh to ensure peaceful celebrations of Durga Puja," he added. Also read: ISKCON clarifies stance on Hindu priest Chinmoy Krishna Das' arrest in Bangladesh: 'Not distancing...' "The primary responsibility for the protection of life and liberty of all citizens of Bangladesh, including minorities, rests with the Government of Bangladesh," India's foreign minister stressed. This also comes during the time as there have been protests in Bangladesh over the arrest of the former priest of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) Bangladesh, Chinmoy Krishna Das Brahmachari, on sedition charges. He was accused of hoisting a saffron flag above the Bangladesh national flag during a rally in October. Watch | Bangladesh: Clashes Erupt As Iskcon Leader Chinmoy Krishna Das Arrested | World DNA × Today at a briefing, Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said that cases against individuals and legal processes are underway. "As far as the arrest of Chinmoy Das is concerned, we have made our statement on that... Cases against individuals and legal processes are underway. We hope and expect that these processes will be dealt with in a fair, just and transparent manner ensuring full respect for these individuals and all those who are concerned...," Jaiswal said. He added, "We are concerned about the surge of extremist rhetoric. Increasing incidents of violence and provocation cannot be dismissed merely as media exaggerations. We call upon Bangladesh to take steps for the protection of minorities..." Indian political leaders have been raising concerns over the arrest of the Hindu monk and also issued an appeal to Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government to intervene. (With inputs from agencies)

'Responsibility for protection...rests with Bangladesh govt': Jaishankar on attacks on Hindus in Dhaka

<p>British lawmakers on Friday (Nov 29) voted in favour of the controversial assisted-dying bill for England and Wales, allowing the legislation to move to the next stage of parliamentary scrutiny.&nbsp;</p>

<p>UK MPs voted by 330 to 275 in support of legalised euthanasia in the first vote in the House of Commons for nearly a decade.</p>

<p>The vote came after a fierce debate where lawmakers were deciding whether or not to legalise assisted dying for terminally ill patients, a contentious proposal that would make the United Kingdom one of the countries to allow terminally ill people to end their lives.&nbsp;</p>

<p>UK parliament began a second reading of the Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) bill on Friday, for assessing whether mentally competent adults with an incurable illness and who have a life expectancy of less than six months should be allowed to end their lives with medical help.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Labour MP Kim Leadbeater, who proposed the measure, opened the debate in Westminster, saying that changing the law would give terminally ill people “choice, autonomy, and dignity at the end of their lives”.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/end-of-life-bill-all-you-need-to-know-about-uks-proposed-assisted-dying-legislation-775458"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;End of Life Bill: All you need to know about UK's proposed assisted dying legislation</strong></a></p>

<p>“Let’s be clear, we’re not talking about a choice between life or death, we are talking about giving dying people a choice about how to die,” Leadbeater said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Conservative MP Danny Kruger, who is leading opposition to the bill, labelled it as “too big” and “too flawed” to pass.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;UK: Assisted Dying Bill | What Does It Say?</strong></p>

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<p>If passed, Britain will be added to the list of countries that have allowed assisted dying in some form, including Canada, New Zealand, Spain and most of Australia.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Members of Parliament in the UK have been given a free vote on the issue, which means that they can support either side according to their conscience, with no political ramifications.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Parliament is tearing itself in two over this,” Rachael Maskell, a Labour MP and prominent opponent of the process, told CNN, adding, “MPs are showing signs of stress, having to make this decision in such a short time frame...It’s occupying everybody’s complete thoughts.”</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


British lawmakers on Friday (Nov 29) voted in favour of the controversial assisted-dying bill for England and Wales, allowing the legislation to move to the next stage of parliamentary scrutiny.

British lawmakers on Friday (Nov 29) voted in favour of the controversial assisted-dying bill for England and Wales, allowing the legislation to move to the next stage of parliamentary scrutiny. UK MPs voted by 330 to 275 in support of legalised euthanasia in the first vote in the House of Commons for nearly a decade. The vote came after a fierce debate where lawmakers were deciding whether or not to legalise assisted dying for terminally ill patients, a contentious proposal that would make the United Kingdom one of the countries to allow terminally ill people to end their lives. UK parliament began a second reading of the Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) bill on Friday, for assessing whether mentally competent adults with an incurable illness and who have a life expectancy of less than six months should be allowed to end their lives with medical help. Labour MP Kim Leadbeater, who proposed the measure, opened the debate in Westminster, saying that changing the law would give terminally ill people “choice, autonomy, and dignity at the end of their lives”. Also read: End of Life Bill: All you need to know about UK's proposed assisted dying legislation “Let’s be clear, we’re not talking about a choice between life or death, we are talking about giving dying people a choice about how to die,” Leadbeater said. Meanwhile, Conservative MP Danny Kruger, who is leading opposition to the bill, labelled it as “too big” and “too flawed” to pass. Watch | UK: Assisted Dying Bill | What Does It Say? × If passed, Britain will be added to the list of countries that have allowed assisted dying in some form, including Canada, New Zealand, Spain and most of Australia. The Members of Parliament in the UK have been given a free vote on the issue, which means that they can support either side according to their conscience, with no political ramifications. “Parliament is tearing itself in two over this,” Rachael Maskell, a Labour MP and prominent opponent of the process, told CNN, adding, “MPs are showing signs of stress, having to make this decision in such a short time frame...It’s occupying everybody’s complete thoughts.” (With inputs from agencies)

British MPs vote in favour of assisted dying bill after fierce debate

<p>Police in&nbsp;Georgia&nbsp;arrested dozens of people overnight and early Friday in a violent crackdown on protests against the government's decision to delay EU membership talks.</p>

<p>The Black Sea nation has been rocked by turmoil since the ruling party declared victory in October parliamentary elections that the pro-EU opposition decried as falsified.</p>

<p>On Thursday night and Friday morning, riot police fired rubber bullets, tear gas and water cannons to disperse gatherings outside parliament in Tbilisi, beating peaceful protesters and journalists, an AFP reporter witnessed.</p>

<p>The interior ministry said 32 of its staff were injured and "43 individuals were detained by law enforcement for disobeying lawful police orders and for petty hooliganism".</p>

<p>Thousands of people took to the streets after Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze of the ruling Georgian Dream party shelved plans to pursue membership of the European Union until 2028.</p>

<p>The opposition has accused Georgian Dream of steering Tbilisi away from its long-held dream of joining the bloc and gravitating towards Russia.</p>

<p>Two politicians from the opposition Coalition for Change, Elene Khoshtaria and Nana Malashkhia, were reportedly injured during the protests.</p>

<p>Khoshtaria sustained a broken arm, while Malashkhia suffered a broken nose, the coalition said.</p>

<p>Prominent poet Zviad Ratiani was among those arrested, the PEN Writers' association in Georgia said, demanding his immediate release.</p>

<p>Ukraine said Friday it was "disappointed" by Tbilisi's decision to pause EU accession talks, accusing the Georgian government of trying to "please Moscow".</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/georgia-president-challenges-election-verdict-in-court-amid-heavy-protests-777497"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Georgia president challenges election verdict in court amid heavy protests</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>Post-election crisis&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Opposition lawmakers are boycotting the new parliament, while Georgia's pro-EU president Salome Zurabishvili has sought to annul the election results through the country's constitutional court.</p>

<p>The prime minister's announcement to delay EU accession came hours after the European Parliament adopted a non-binding resolution rejecting the results of Georgia's October 26 elections, alleging "significant irregularities".</p>

<p>The resolution called for a new vote within a year under international supervision and for sanctions to be imposed on top Georgian officials, including Prime Minister Kobakhidze.</p>

<p>Accusing the European Parliament of "blackmail", Kobakhidze said: "We have decided not to bring up the issue of joining the European Union on the agenda until the end of 2028."</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Georgia Ruling Party Names Presidential Candidate</strong></p>

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<p>But he pledged to continue implementing reforms, adding: "By 2028, Georgia will be more prepared than any other candidate country to open accession talks with Brussels and become a member state in 2030."</p>

<p>On Thursday, Georgian Dream MPs voted unanimously for Kobakhidze to continue as prime minister.</p>

<p>But constitutional law experts say any decisions made by the new parliament are invalid because it is still awaiting a court ruling on Zurabishvili's bid to annul the election results.</p>

<p>On Wednesday, the ruling party nominated far-right politician and former football international Mikheil Kavelashvili for the largely ceremonial post of president, further ratcheting up tensions.</p>

<p>The former Soviet country officially gained EU candidate status in December 2023, an aspiration that is supported by 80 per cent of the population, according to polling.</p>

<p>But earlier this year Brussels froze Georgia's accession process, citing the need for Tbilisi to address what it says is democratic backsliding.</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>


Police in Georgia arrested dozens of people overnight and early Friday in a violent crackdown on protests against the government's decision to delay EU membership talks.

Police in Georgia arrested dozens of people overnight and early Friday in a violent crackdown on protests against the government's decision to delay EU membership talks. The Black Sea nation has been rocked by turmoil since the ruling party declared victory in October parliamentary elections that the pro-EU opposition decried as falsified. On Thursday night and Friday morning, riot police fired rubber bullets, tear gas and water cannons to disperse gatherings outside parliament in Tbilisi, beating peaceful protesters and journalists, an AFP reporter witnessed. The interior ministry said 32 of its staff were injured and "43 individuals were detained by law enforcement for disobeying lawful police orders and for petty hooliganism". Thousands of people took to the streets after Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze of the ruling Georgian Dream party shelved plans to pursue membership of the European Union until 2028. The opposition has accused Georgian Dream of steering Tbilisi away from its long-held dream of joining the bloc and gravitating towards Russia. Two politicians from the opposition Coalition for Change, Elene Khoshtaria and Nana Malashkhia, were reportedly injured during the protests. Khoshtaria sustained a broken arm, while Malashkhia suffered a broken nose, the coalition said. Prominent poet Zviad Ratiani was among those arrested, the PEN Writers' association in Georgia said, demanding his immediate release. Ukraine said Friday it was "disappointed" by Tbilisi's decision to pause EU accession talks, accusing the Georgian government of trying to "please Moscow". Also read: Georgia president challenges election verdict in court amid heavy protests Post-election crisis Opposition lawmakers are boycotting the new parliament, while Georgia's pro-EU president Salome Zurabishvili has sought to annul the election results through the country's constitutional court. The prime minister's announcement to delay EU accession came hours after the European Parliament adopted a non-binding resolution rejecting the results of Georgia's October 26 elections, alleging "significant irregularities". The resolution called for a new vote within a year under international supervision and for sanctions to be imposed on top Georgian officials, including Prime Minister Kobakhidze. Accusing the European Parliament of "blackmail", Kobakhidze said: "We have decided not to bring up the issue of joining the European Union on the agenda until the end of 2028." Watch | Georgia Ruling Party Names Presidential Candidate × But he pledged to continue implementing reforms, adding: "By 2028, Georgia will be more prepared than any other candidate country to open accession talks with Brussels and become a member state in 2030." On Thursday, Georgian Dream MPs voted unanimously for Kobakhidze to continue as prime minister. But constitutional law experts say any decisions made by the new parliament are invalid because it is still awaiting a court ruling on Zurabishvili's bid to annul the election results. On Wednesday, the ruling party nominated far-right politician and former football international Mikheil Kavelashvili for the largely ceremonial post of president, further ratcheting up tensions. The former Soviet country officially gained EU candidate status in December 2023, an aspiration that is supported by 80 per cent of the population, according to polling. But earlier this year Brussels froze Georgia's accession process, citing the need for Tbilisi to address what it says is democratic backsliding. 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.

Georgia: Dozens arrested as pro-EU protesters clash with police

<p>Jihadists and their Turkish-backed allies shelled Syria's second city Aleppo on Friday, in a major offensive against government troops that has sparked some of the deadliest fighting the country has seen in years.</p>

<p>The violence has killed 255 people, according to a Syrian war monitor, most of them combatants on both sides but also including civilians. The toll also includes 24 civilians, most killed in Russian air strikes.</p>

<p>The offensive began at a sensitive time for Syria and the region, with a fragile ceasefire between the Iran-backed Hezbollah and Israel taking effect earlier this week in neighbouring Lebanon.</p>

<p>By Friday, they had wrested more than 50 towns and villages in north and northwestern Syria, according to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, the biggest advances that anti-government factions had made in years.</p>

<p>Army reinforcements have arrived in Aleppo, a Syrian government security official told AFP, requesting anonymity to discuss sensitive matters. The official added that "there are fierce battles and clashes west of Aleppo, but they have not reached the city".</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/un-says-critical-ceasefire-needed-to-stop-syria-from-entering-war-zone-778866"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;UN says ‘critical’ ceasefire needed to stop Syria from entering war zone</strong></a></p>

<p>This week, jihadists and factions backed by Turkey, which neighbours Syria and supported the rebellion against Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, launched a major surprise offensive against government forces.</p>

<p>They shelled a university student residence on Friday in government-held Aleppo, northern Syria's main city, killing four civilians according to state media.</p>

<p>The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs said "more than 14,000 people –- nearly half are children -- have been displaced" by the violence.</p>

<p>Aleppo resident Sarmad, 51, told AFP he could hear "the sounds of missiles and artillery shelling around the clock".</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Syrian And Russian Forces Launch Airstrikes In Rebel-Held Northwestern Syria | World DNA | WION</strong></p>

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<p>"We're scared that war will break out and we'll be displaced from our homes again," he said.</p>

<p>Nasser Hamdo, 36, who works in a pastry shop, said he had been glued to the news since hostilities began.</p>

<p>The fighters had on Thursday cut the highway linking Aleppo to Syria's capital Damascus, about 300 kilometres (185 miles) south, according to the Britain-based Observatory.</p>

<p>"We're worried that roads getting blocked could cause fuel prices to soar and prevent goods from reaching the city," Hamdo said.</p>

<p>Syria's civil war began when Assad's forces cracked down in 2011 on pro-democracy protests.</p>

<p>Since then, the conflict has killed more than 500,000 people, displaced millions, and morphed into a complex war drawing in jihadists and foreign powers, including Assad's allies Russia, Iran and Hezbollah.</p>

<p>Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov on Friday described the situation in Aleppo as "an infringement on the sovereignty of Syria."</p>

<p>He expressed support for "the government of Syria to quickly restore order in this district and restore the constitutional order."</p>

<p>At a press conference earlier this week, Mohamed Bashir of the jihadist Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) said: "This operation aims to repel the sources of fire of the criminal enemy from the frontlines."</p>

<p>HTS, led by Al-Qaeda's former Syria branch, controls swathes of the Idlib region as well as small parts of neighbouring Aleppo, Hama and Latakia provinces.</p>

<p>The Idlib area where the jihadists are based has been subject to a Turkey and Russia-brokered truce since 2020. The ceasefire has been repeatedly violated but has largely been holding.</p>

<p>An AFP correspondent based in rebel-held areas saw jihadists advancing in tanks as intense exchanges of fire took place in an area just seven kilometres from the city of Aleppo.</p>

<p>AFP images showed damaged and abandoned Syrian army tanks and other military vehicles in the region.</p>

<p>The correspondent said the jihadists and their Turkey-backed allies took orders from a joint military operations command.</p>

<p>Analyst Nick Heras, of the New Lines Institute for Strategy and Policy, said the fighters were "trying to preempt the possibility of a Syrian military campaign in the region of Aleppo".</p>

<p>According to Heras, the Syrian government and its key backer Russia had been preparing for such a campaign.</p>

<p>Russia intervened in Syria's civil war in 2015, turning the momentum of the conflict in favour of the president, whose forces at the time had lost control of most of the country.</p>

<p>Turkey, Heras said, maybe "sending a message to both Damascus and Moscow to back down from their military efforts in northwest Syria".</p>

<p>Other interests are also at stake.</p>

<p>As well as Russia, Assad has been propped up by Iran and allied militant groups, including Lebanon's powerful Hezbollah.</p>

<p>Iran-backed militias have a heavy presence in the Aleppo region after providing crucial ground support to the army in its recapture of rebel-held districts of the city in 2016.</p>

<p>Anti-government forces are, according to Heras, "in a better position to take and seize villages than Russian-backed Syrian government forces, while the Iranians are focused on Lebanon".</p>

<p>During its war with Hezbollah in Lebanon, Israel intensified its strikes on Iran-backed groups in Syria including Hezbollah.</p>

<p>Rami Abdel Rahman, director of the Observatory, said Assad's forces "were totally unprepared" for the attack.</p>

<p>"It is strange to see regime forces being dealt such big blows despite Russian air cover and early signs that HTS was going to launch this operation," Abdel Rahman said.</p>

<p>"Were they depending on Hezbollah, which is now busy in Lebanon?"</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>


Jihadists and their Turkish-backed allies shelled Syria's second city Aleppo on Friday, in a major offensive against government troops that has sparked some of the deadliest fighting the country has seen in years.

Jihadists and their Turkish-backed allies shelled Syria's second city Aleppo on Friday, in a major offensive against government troops that has sparked some of the deadliest fighting the country has seen in years. The violence has killed 255 people, according to a Syrian war monitor, most of them combatants on both sides but also including civilians. The toll also includes 24 civilians, most killed in Russian air strikes. The offensive began at a sensitive time for Syria and the region, with a fragile ceasefire between the Iran-backed Hezbollah and Israel taking effect earlier this week in neighbouring Lebanon. By Friday, they had wrested more than 50 towns and villages in north and northwestern Syria, according to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, the biggest advances that anti-government factions had made in years. Army reinforcements have arrived in Aleppo, a Syrian government security official told AFP, requesting anonymity to discuss sensitive matters. The official added that "there are fierce battles and clashes west of Aleppo, but they have not reached the city". Also read: UN says ‘critical’ ceasefire needed to stop Syria from entering war zone This week, jihadists and factions backed by Turkey, which neighbours Syria and supported the rebellion against Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, launched a major surprise offensive against government forces. They shelled a university student residence on Friday in government-held Aleppo, northern Syria's main city, killing four civilians according to state media. The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs said "more than 14,000 people –- nearly half are children -- have been displaced" by the violence. Aleppo resident Sarmad, 51, told AFP he could hear "the sounds of missiles and artillery shelling around the clock". Watch | Syrian And Russian Forces Launch Airstrikes In Rebel-Held Northwestern Syria | World DNA | WION × "We're scared that war will break out and we'll be displaced from our homes again," he said. Nasser Hamdo, 36, who works in a pastry shop, said he had been glued to the news since hostilities began. The fighters had on Thursday cut the highway linking Aleppo to Syria's capital Damascus, about 300 kilometres (185 miles) south, according to the Britain-based Observatory. "We're worried that roads getting blocked could cause fuel prices to soar and prevent goods from reaching the city," Hamdo said. Syria's civil war began when Assad's forces cracked down in 2011 on pro-democracy protests. Since then, the conflict has killed more than 500,000 people, displaced millions, and morphed into a complex war drawing in jihadists and foreign powers, including Assad's allies Russia, Iran and Hezbollah. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov on Friday described the situation in Aleppo as "an infringement on the sovereignty of Syria." He expressed support for "the government of Syria to quickly restore order in this district and restore the constitutional order." At a press conference earlier this week, Mohamed Bashir of the jihadist Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) said: "This operation aims to repel the sources of fire of the criminal enemy from the frontlines." HTS, led by Al-Qaeda's former Syria branch, controls swathes of the Idlib region as well as small parts of neighbouring Aleppo, Hama and Latakia provinces. The Idlib area where the jihadists are based has been subject to a Turkey and Russia-brokered truce since 2020. The ceasefire has been repeatedly violated but has largely been holding. An AFP correspondent based in rebel-held areas saw jihadists advancing in tanks as intense exchanges of fire took place in an area just seven kilometres from the city of Aleppo. AFP images showed damaged and abandoned Syrian army tanks and other military vehicles in the region. The correspondent said the jihadists and their Turkey-backed allies took orders from a joint military operations command. Analyst Nick Heras, of the New Lines Institute for Strategy and Policy, said the fighters were "trying to preempt the possibility of a Syrian military campaign in the region of Aleppo". According to Heras, the Syrian government and its key backer Russia had been preparing for such a campaign. Russia intervened in Syria's civil war in 2015, turning the momentum of the conflict in favour of the president, whose forces at the time had lost control of most of the country. Turkey, Heras said, maybe "sending a message to both Damascus and Moscow to back down from their military efforts in northwest Syria". Other interests are also at stake. As well as Russia, Assad has been propped up by Iran and allied militant groups, including Lebanon's powerful Hezbollah. Iran-backed militias have a heavy presence in the Aleppo region after providing crucial ground support to the army in its recapture of rebel-held districts of the city in 2016. Anti-government forces are, according to Heras, "in a better position to take and seize villages than Russian-backed Syrian government forces, while the Iranians are focused on Lebanon". During its war with Hezbollah in Lebanon, Israel intensified its strikes on Iran-backed groups in Syria including Hezbollah. Rami Abdel Rahman, director of the Observatory, said Assad's forces "were totally unprepared" for the attack. "It is strange to see regime forces being dealt such big blows despite Russian air cover and early signs that HTS was going to launch this operation," Abdel Rahman said. "Were they depending on Hezbollah, which is now busy in Lebanon?" 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 jihadists and Turkish-based allies launch major offensive in Aleppo city

<p>A woman has been denied bail by the Australian Supreme Court on Thursday (Nov 28) over the alleged killing of her husband to escape an abusive marriage. Sydney-based woman butchered her 62-year-old husband Mamdouh "Emad" Noufl, dismembered his body with a drop saw, and disposed of it in 30 plastic bags across south-west Sydney, reported The Sydney Morning Herald.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Nirmeen Noufl, 53, allegedly murdered her husband in May last year and&nbsp;gained control of certain finances. She&nbsp;was arrested last month.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Nirmeen was supported by a dozen family members and friends as she was refused bail on Thursday. She is still fighting the charges.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nsw-floods-mans-body-found-in-sydney-more-than-150-rescued-as-water-continues-to-rise-708375"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;NSW floods: Man’s body found in Sydney; more than 150 rescued as water continues to rise</strong></a></p>

<p>The police alleged that Nirmeen Noufl murdered her husband on May 3 last year. They said that she slashed him with knives and power saw in the family home in Greenacre in Sydney’s west and disposed of his body parts in residential and commercial bins across several suburbs.</p>

<p>According to the report, a person known as "Witness A" allegedly saw some of her "callous" actions on the night of the alleged murder. Meanwhile, another witness allegedly reported hearing statements from Nirmeen that could be considered admissions to killing her husband.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Sydney stabbing: 7 people rushed to hospital</strong></p>

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<p>The police fact sheet submitted to the court alleged that the accused&nbsp;was motivated by previous abuse and frustrations over her&nbsp;husband's relationship with a woman in Egypt, whom he got engaged to while wanting to stay married to his wife.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Last month, Nirmeen also checked herself into a mental health hospital and got arrested only, based on what police considered to be strong circumstantial evidence.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, his husband's remains have not been found yet.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Her lawyer Greg James, KC, said Nirmeen suffered from mental illnesses including depression, PTSD, and a psychotic illness.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A woman has been denied bail by the Australian Supreme Court on Thursday (Nov 28) over the alleged killing of her husband to escape an abusive marriage. Sydney-based woman butchered her 62-year-old husband Mamdouh "Emad" Noufl, dismembered his body with a drop saw, and disposed of it in 30 plastic bags across south-west Sydney, reported The Sydney Morning Herald.

A woman has been denied bail by the Australian Supreme Court on Thursday (Nov 28) over the alleged killing of her husband to escape an abusive marriage. Sydney-based woman butchered her 62-year-old husband Mamdouh "Emad" Noufl, dismembered his body with a drop saw, and disposed of it in 30 plastic bags across south-west Sydney, reported The Sydney Morning Herald. Nirmeen Noufl, 53, allegedly murdered her husband in May last year and gained control of certain finances. She was arrested last month. Nirmeen was supported by a dozen family members and friends as she was refused bail on Thursday. She is still fighting the charges. Also read: NSW floods: Man’s body found in Sydney; more than 150 rescued as water continues to rise The police alleged that Nirmeen Noufl murdered her husband on May 3 last year. They said that she slashed him with knives and power saw in the family home in Greenacre in Sydney’s west and disposed of his body parts in residential and commercial bins across several suburbs. According to the report, a person known as "Witness A" allegedly saw some of her "callous" actions on the night of the alleged murder. Meanwhile, another witness allegedly reported hearing statements from Nirmeen that could be considered admissions to killing her husband. Watch | Sydney stabbing: 7 people rushed to hospital × The police fact sheet submitted to the court alleged that the accused was motivated by previous abuse and frustrations over her husband's relationship with a woman in Egypt, whom he got engaged to while wanting to stay married to his wife. Last month, Nirmeen also checked herself into a mental health hospital and got arrested only, based on what police considered to be strong circumstantial evidence. However, his husband's remains have not been found yet. Her lawyer Greg James, KC, said Nirmeen suffered from mental illnesses including depression, PTSD, and a psychotic illness. (With inputs from agencies)

Woman allegedly murders husband with drop saw to escape abusive marriage, dumps body parts in 30 bags

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