<p>Pakistan has shut down access to Facebook, Instagram, X (formerly Twitter) and YouTube ahead of "virtual jalsa" by supporters of former Prime Minister Imran Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party. Users across Pakistan reported finding it difficult to access social media platforms in Lahore, Karachi and Islamabad since 8 pm (local time).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Users also complained about internet services being slow.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Live metrics show a nation-scale disruption to social media platforms across #Pakistan, including X, Facebook, Instagram and YouTube," the internet tracking agency Netblocks wrote on X (formerly Twitter).</p>

<p>The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) did not respond to the widespread complaints, which indicated the stifling of the political expression of individuals owing allegiance to former Prime Minister Imran Khan, and his Pakistan-Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pti-lets-go-founder-imran-khan-as-party-captain-to-save-bat-for-elections-665466">PTI lets go founder Imran Khan as party captain to save 'bat' for elections</a></strong></p>

<p>Pakistani&nbsp;lawyer and human rights activist Jibran Nasir said: "They actually messed with the internet affecting millions of subscribers and hundreds of thousands of businesses only to oppose PTI virtual rally. This is beyond madness."</p>

<p>In Pakistan, the military-intelligence nexus, dubbed as establishment, continues to remain the real power behind the semblance of democracy that emerges from Islamabad's Prime Minister's Office.</p>

<p>The South Asian country is scheduled to hold elections in February 2024,&nbsp;nearly two years after Pakistan's Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader Imran Khan was ousted from power after a parliamentary no-trust-vote which Khan <a href="&lt;blockquote class=&quot;twitter-tweet&quot; data-media-max-width=&quot;560&quot;&gt;&lt;p lang=&quot;en&quot; dir=&quot;ltr&quot;&gt;&amp;quot;America ney ik ...America nahi bahar se mulk..matalb kis aur mulk se..(America...no not America some other country)&amp;quot;, Pakistan PM Imran Khan during his address to nation indicating foreign hand in destabilizing his govt. &lt;a href=&quot;https://t.co/5Npq1fTbjg&quot;&gt;pic.twitter.com/5Npq1fTbjg&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&amp;mdash; Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) &lt;a href=&quot;https://twitter.com/sidhant/status/1509571970903719938?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw&quot;&gt;March 31, 2022&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/blockquote&gt; &lt;script async src=&quot;https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js&quot; charset=&quot;utf-8&quot;&gt;&lt;/script&gt;">alleged</a> was orchestrated at the US' behest.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Pakistan: PTI leaders announce possibility of talks with PML-N &amp; PPP</strong></p>

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<p>Since August 2023, Imran Khan has remained jailed following a conviction in a corruption case. Earlier this week,&nbsp;a special court once again indicted former prime minister as well as&nbsp;ex-foreign minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi in the cypher case for allegedly leaking state secrets and violating the laws of the country.</p>

<p>Besides, the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has prohibited the registration of new voters, as well as the deletion, revision, and correction of votes on electoral rolls, ARY News reported on Sunday.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Pakistan has shut down access to Facebook, Instagram, X (formerly Twitter) and YouTube ahead of "virtual jalsa" by supporters of former Prime Minister Imran Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party.

Pakistan has shut down access to Facebook, Instagram, X (formerly Twitter) and YouTube ahead of "virtual jalsa" by supporters of former Prime Minister Imran Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party. Users across Pakistan reported finding it difficult to access social media platforms in Lahore, Karachi and Islamabad since 8 pm (local time). Users also complained about internet services being slow. "Live metrics show a nation-scale disruption to social media platforms across #Pakistan, including X, Facebook, Instagram and YouTube," the internet tracking agency Netblocks wrote on X (formerly Twitter). The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) did not respond to the widespread complaints, which indicated the stifling of the political expression of individuals owing allegiance to former Prime Minister Imran Khan, and his Pakistan-Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party. Also read | PTI lets go founder Imran Khan as party captain to save 'bat' for elections Pakistani lawyer and human rights activist Jibran Nasir said: "They actually messed with the internet affecting millions of subscribers and hundreds of thousands of businesses only to oppose PTI virtual rally. This is beyond madness." In Pakistan, the military-intelligence nexus, dubbed as establishment, continues to remain the real power behind the semblance of democracy that emerges from Islamabad's Prime Minister's Office. The South Asian country is scheduled to hold elections in February 2024, nearly two years after Pakistan's Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader Imran Khan was ousted from power after a parliamentary no-trust-vote which Khan alleged was orchestrated at the US' behest. Also watch | Pakistan: PTI leaders announce possibility of talks with PML-N & PPP × Since August 2023, Imran Khan has remained jailed following a conviction in a corruption case. Earlier this week, a special court once again indicted former prime minister as well as ex-foreign minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi in the cypher case for allegedly leaking state secrets and violating the laws of the country. Besides, the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has prohibited the registration of new voters, as well as the deletion, revision, and correction of votes on electoral rolls, ARY News reported on Sunday. (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan: Social media platforms face disruption ahead of virtual gathering of Imran Khan's supporters

<p>Israel Defense Forces claimed that they have uncovered&nbsp;the largest-ever Hamas attack tunnel near the Erez border crossing in the northern Gaza Strip. In Bengaluru, foreign minister Dr S Jaishankar said that India is willing to take into consideration the concerns shared by any other country regarding the allegations by Canada about the alleged involvement of "agents of the Indian government" in the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar.</p>

<p><strong>Click here to read more:</strong></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-live-updates-israel-will-fight-until-complete-victory-says-netanyahu-670416">Israel-Hamas war: Biggest Hamas tunnel with 4km long network found under Gaza<img alt="Israel-Hamas war" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9c22537c-0549-4a74-87bf-e7999fecd6c9" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20Design%20-%202023-12-17T221830.625.png" /></a></p>

<p>The Israel Defense Forces uncovered on Sunday (Dec 17) the largest-ever Hamas attack tunnel found near the Erez border crossing in the northern Gaza Strip. IDF uncovered approximately four kilometres (2.5 miles) of the tunnel, reaching depths of about 50 meters (165 feet) in some areas, with the capacity for vehicles, but it did not extend into Israeli territory.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jaishankar-clears-the-air-on-diplomatic-rows-in-us-canada-slams-un-security-council-as-old-club-670623">Jaishankar clears the air on diplomatic rows with US and Canada, slams UN Security Council as ‘old club’</a></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/17/399738-succession-2023-12-17t204608173.jpg?imwidth=3840" /></p>

<p>While speaking at the Rotary Institute 2023 event in Bengaluru, Jaishankar asserted that India is willing to take into consideration the concerns shared by any other country regarding&nbsp;the allegations&nbsp;by Canada about the alleged involvement of "agents of the Indian government" in the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-fires-ballistic-projectile-says-south-korea-670644">North Korea fires ballistic projectile, says South Korea</a></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/17/399754-succession-2023-12-17t222017431.jpg?imwidth=3840" /></p>

<p>North Korea launched a ballistic projectile on Sunday (Dec 17), Seoul's army said in a statement,&nbsp;amid warnings by the United States and South Korea that&nbsp;any nuclear attack by Pyongyang would lead to the end of its regime.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-demonstrates-unmatched-astrashakti-after-akash-engages-four-targets-at-once-670546">India demonstrates unmatched ‘Astrashakti’ as ‘Akash’ unit neutralises four targets in one go</a></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/17/399690-untitled-design-2023-12-17t162723447.png?imwidth=3840" /></p>

<p>The successful demonstration of the Akash missile system would add to India's weapon-export initiatives. Astrashakti, the name of an Indian weapon demonstration exercise, literally means power of weapons.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/african-scientist-develops-gene-drive-tech-that-could-wipe-out-malaria-from-continent-670570">African scientist develops ‘gene drive tech’ that could wipe out malaria from continent</a></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2018/09/19/70118-mosquitoe-1548946_960_720.jpg?imwidth=3840" /></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>An African scientist is working on a ‘gene drive technology’ that could potentially wipe out malaria or malaria-causing mosquitoes from the continent.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pm-modi-state-election-win-is-a-message-for-upcoming-2024-elections-670527">Indian PM Modi: State election win is a message for upcoming 2024 elections</a></p>

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<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/serbia-president-aleksandar-vucics-grip-on-power-goes-to-test-in-snap-polls-670581">Serbia: President Aleksandar Vucic's grip on power goes to test in snap polls</a></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/17/399715-untitled-design-2023-12-17t181653000.png?imwidth=3840" /></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Serbians on Sunday (Dec 17) are voting in the country's parliamentary elections, the tenth such voting exercise&nbsp;since the 1998-1999 Kosovo conflict that led to the creation of the Republic of Kosovo with partial international recognition.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/how-a-chinese-spy-used-a-european-senator-as-intelligence-asset-for-three-years-670500">How a Chinese spy used a European senator as intelligence asset for three years</a></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/17/399667-107260522-1687385490649-gettyimages-1327877479-chinesehackers.jpeg?imwidth=3840" /></p>

<p>According to the report, Frank Creyelman, a former Belgian senator, was contacted by Daniel Woo, an officer in China’s Ministry of State Security to unduly influence discussions in Europe concerning Europe and Europe’s relations with the US and UK.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/disturbance-on-sun-can-cause-train-accidents-on-earth-researchers-warn-670555">Solar storms can cause train accidents on Earth, researchers warn</a></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/17/399697-railway-train-signal.jpg?imwidth=3840" /></p>

<p>Changes in space weather, especially powerful solar storms can cause transport havoc like&nbsp;train accidents, researchers from Lancaster University have concluded.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sa-vs-ind-1st-odi-arshdeep-avesh-dismantle-proteas-at-wanderers-to-earn-statement-win-in-curtain-raiser-670571">SA vs IND, 1st ODI: Arshdeep, Avesh dismantle Proteas at Wanderers to earn statement win in curtain-raiser</a></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/17/399707-1-2023-12-17t173725148.png?imwidth=3840" /></p>

<p>India made an excellent start to the ODI series against South Africa as they registered a statement eight-wicket win against the hosts at the Wanderers Stadium in Johannesburg. The contest on Sunday (Dec 17)&nbsp;saw Arshdeep Singh and Avesh Khan run riot as they scalped nine wickets between them and helped India skittle out South Africa on 116, their third-lowest ODI total against India. In reply, India reached the total in 16.2 overs as debutant Sai Sudharsan (unbeaten 55) and Shreyas Iyer (52) ended with fifties as the visitors now lead the three-match ODI series 1-0. &nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/barbie-director-greta-gerwig-makes-surprise-appearance-on-saturday-night-live-to-introduce-billie-eilish-670512">Barbie director Greta Gerwig makes surprise appearance on Saturday Night Live to introduce Billie Eilish</a></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/17/399671-untitled-design-2023-12-17t142823392.jpg?imwidth=3840" /></p>

<p>Greta Gerwig, the co-writer/director of&nbsp;<em>Barbie</em>, made a surprise appearance alongside old college friend and&nbsp;<em>Barbie&nbsp;</em>co-star Kate McKinnon. The duo took the stage to introduce musical guest Billie Eilish, who performed "What Was I Made For?" from the&nbsp;<em>Barbie&nbsp;</em>soundtrack.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Israel Defense Forces claimed that they have uncovered the largest-ever Hamas attack tunnel near the Erez border crossing in the northern Gaza Strip. In Bengaluru, foreign minister Dr S Jaishankar said that India is willing to take into consideration the concerns shared by any other country regarding the allegations by Canada about the alleged involvement of "agents of the Indian government" in the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar.

Israel Defense Forces claimed that they have uncovered the largest-ever Hamas attack tunnel near the Erez border crossing in the northern Gaza Strip. In Bengaluru, foreign minister Dr S Jaishankar said that India is willing to take into consideration the concerns shared by any other country regarding the allegations by Canada about the alleged involvement of "agents of the Indian government" in the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Click here to read more: Israel-Hamas war: Biggest Hamas tunnel with 4km long network found under Gaza The Israel Defense Forces uncovered on Sunday (Dec 17) the largest-ever Hamas attack tunnel found near the Erez border crossing in the northern Gaza Strip. IDF uncovered approximately four kilometres (2.5 miles) of the tunnel, reaching depths of about 50 meters (165 feet) in some areas, with the capacity for vehicles, but it did not extend into Israeli territory. Jaishankar clears the air on diplomatic rows with US and Canada, slams UN Security Council as ‘old club’ While speaking at the Rotary Institute 2023 event in Bengaluru, Jaishankar asserted that India is willing to take into consideration the concerns shared by any other country regarding the allegations by Canada about the alleged involvement of "agents of the Indian government" in the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. North Korea fires ballistic projectile, says South Korea North Korea launched a ballistic projectile on Sunday (Dec 17), Seoul's army said in a statement, amid warnings by the United States and South Korea that any nuclear attack by Pyongyang would lead to the end of its regime. India demonstrates unmatched ‘Astrashakti’ as ‘Akash’ unit neutralises four targets in one go The successful demonstration of the Akash missile system would add to India's weapon-export initiatives. Astrashakti, the name of an Indian weapon demonstration exercise, literally means power of weapons. African scientist develops ‘gene drive tech’ that could wipe out malaria from continent An African scientist is working on a ‘gene drive technology’ that could potentially wipe out malaria or malaria-causing mosquitoes from the continent. Indian PM Modi: State election win is a message for upcoming 2024 elections × Serbia: President Aleksandar Vucic's grip on power goes to test in snap polls Serbians on Sunday (Dec 17) are voting in the country's parliamentary elections, the tenth such voting exercise since the 1998-1999 Kosovo conflict that led to the creation of the Republic of Kosovo with partial international recognition. How a Chinese spy used a European senator as intelligence asset for three years According to the report, Frank Creyelman, a former Belgian senator, was contacted by Daniel Woo, an officer in China’s Ministry of State Security to unduly influence discussions in Europe concerning Europe and Europe’s relations with the US and UK. Solar storms can cause train accidents on Earth, researchers warn Changes in space weather, especially powerful solar storms can cause transport havoc like train accidents, researchers from Lancaster University have concluded. SA vs IND, 1st ODI: Arshdeep, Avesh dismantle Proteas at Wanderers to earn statement win in curtain-raiser India made an excellent start to the ODI series against South Africa as they registered a statement eight-wicket win against the hosts at the Wanderers Stadium in Johannesburg. The contest on Sunday (Dec 17) saw Arshdeep Singh and Avesh Khan run riot as they scalped nine wickets between them and helped India skittle out South Africa on 116, their third-lowest ODI total against India. In reply, India reached the total in 16.2 overs as debutant Sai Sudharsan (unbeaten 55) and Shreyas Iyer (52) ended with fifties as the visitors now lead the three-match ODI series 1-0. Barbie director Greta Gerwig makes surprise appearance on Saturday Night Live to introduce Billie Eilish Greta Gerwig, the co-writer/director of Barbie, made a surprise appearance alongside old college friend and Barbie co-star Kate McKinnon. The duo took the stage to introduce musical guest Billie Eilish, who performed "What Was I Made For?" from the Barbie soundtrack.

Top 10 world news: Israel finds 'biggest' Hamas tunnel, North Korea fires projectile towards South Korea

<p>In an old video, Italy's Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni said that the Islamic culture is not entirely "compatible" with European civilisation, and the controversial remarks are now going viral on social media forums.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I believe that there is a problem of compatibility between Islamic culture and the values ​​and rights of our civilisation," she said in the old video, whose exact date is not revealed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Brothers of Italy party leader further added in the video: "The Islamic cultural centres in Italy are financed by Saudi Arabia where Sharia is in force. In Europe, there is a very Islamisation process distant from the values ​​of our civilisation."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The video has re-surfaced after the Italian prime minister hosted a political festival organised by her Brothers of Italy party in Rome which had UK's Prime Minister Rishi Sunak in attendance.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">🚨Watch: <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GiorgiaMeloni?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GiorgiaMeloni</a>: "I believe... there is a problem of compatibility between Islamic culture and the values ​​and rights of our civilization... Will not allow Sharia law to be implemented in italy.... values ​​of our civilization are different! <a href="https://t.co/VGWNix7936">pic.twitter.com/VGWNix7936</a></p>
— Geopolitical Kid (@Geopoliticalkid) <a href="https://twitter.com/Geopoliticalkid/status/1736587651606811000?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 18, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/web-stories/opinions-blogs/what-makes-italys-giorgia-meloni-a-woman-leader-with-difference-1699171804008">What Makes Italy’s Giorgia Meloni a Woman Leader With Difference</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<h2><strong>Sunak&nbsp;on the refugee issue&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Separately, Rishi Sunak said that he would push for global reforms to the asylum system and warned that the threat of a growing number of refugees could "overwhelm" parts of Europe.</p>

<p>He warned that some "enemies" were deliberately "driving people to our shores to try and destabilise our societies".</p>

<p>"If we do not tackle this problem, the numbers will only grow. It will overwhelm our countries and our capacity to help those who actually need our help the most," Rishi Sunak said, adding, "If that requires us to update our laws and lead an international conversation to amend the post-war frameworks around asylum, then we must do that."</p>

<p>Among others, billionaire business magnate Elon Musk was also present at the annual gathering.</p>

<p>"Immigration isn’t enough to combat population shrinking," he said, explaining, "There is value in cultures, we don’t want Italy as a culture to disappear, we want to maintain a reasonable cultural identity of those countries or they won’t be those countries," Musk added.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Meloni's other controversial references to Islam</strong></h2>

<p>The video&nbsp;is not the first time Meloni made headlines for a controversial reference to Islam.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In September 2019, Meloni wrote a foreword to the 'First Report on Europe's Islamisation', which was presented by the Farefuturo Foundation think-tank, where she wrote: "Because we fear the 'prophecy' of [Michel] Houellebecq, if Europe, and Italy which concerns us closely, do not decide to have policies and tools to preserve itself, may inevitably turn into reality."</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Italy migrant crisis: EU Chief, Italy PM Giorgia Meloni visit Lampedusa island</strong></p>

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<p>French novelist Michel Houellebecq, in a satirical novel,&nbsp;imagined a France of the near future in which the citizenry, starved of the meaning of Christianity, elects a Muslim leader into power who converts the country en masse to create&nbsp;a French Islamic theocracy. European leaders often refer to Houellebecq as 'Islamophobic'.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to a report published in the Middle East Eye, Italy neither supports the construction of Muslim religious buildings nor does it recognise Islam legally.</p>

<p>Present-day Italy, however, recognises the Catholic Church as an independent and sovereign authority. It has signed contracts of recognition with a total of 13 religious communities, including Hindus and Jews. But Muslims lack similar legal recognition.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


In an old video, Italy's Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni said that the Islamic culture is not entirely "compatible" with European civilisation, and the controversial remarks are now going viral on social media forums.

In an old video, Italy's Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni said that the Islamic culture is not entirely "compatible" with European civilisation, and the controversial remarks are now going viral on social media forums. "I believe that there is a problem of compatibility between Islamic culture and the values and rights of our civilisation," she said in the old video, whose exact date is not revealed. The Brothers of Italy party leader further added in the video: "The Islamic cultural centres in Italy are financed by Saudi Arabia where Sharia is in force. In Europe, there is a very Islamisation process distant from the values of our civilisation." The video has re-surfaced after the Italian prime minister hosted a political festival organised by her Brothers of Italy party in Rome which had UK's Prime Minister Rishi Sunak in attendance. 🚨Watch: #GiorgiaMeloni: "I believe... there is a problem of compatibility between Islamic culture and the values and rights of our civilization... Will not allow Sharia law to be implemented in italy.... values of our civilization are different! pic.twitter.com/VGWNix7936 — Geopolitical Kid (@Geopoliticalkid) December 18, 2023 × Also read | What Makes Italy’s Giorgia Meloni a Woman Leader With Difference Sunak on the refugee issue Separately, Rishi Sunak said that he would push for global reforms to the asylum system and warned that the threat of a growing number of refugees could "overwhelm" parts of Europe. He warned that some "enemies" were deliberately "driving people to our shores to try and destabilise our societies". "If we do not tackle this problem, the numbers will only grow. It will overwhelm our countries and our capacity to help those who actually need our help the most," Rishi Sunak said, adding, "If that requires us to update our laws and lead an international conversation to amend the post-war frameworks around asylum, then we must do that." Among others, billionaire business magnate Elon Musk was also present at the annual gathering. "Immigration isn’t enough to combat population shrinking," he said, explaining, "There is value in cultures, we don’t want Italy as a culture to disappear, we want to maintain a reasonable cultural identity of those countries or they won’t be those countries," Musk added. Meloni's other controversial references to Islam The video is not the first time Meloni made headlines for a controversial reference to Islam. In September 2019, Meloni wrote a foreword to the 'First Report on Europe's Islamisation', which was presented by the Farefuturo Foundation think-tank, where she wrote: "Because we fear the 'prophecy' of [Michel] Houellebecq, if Europe, and Italy which concerns us closely, do not decide to have policies and tools to preserve itself, may inevitably turn into reality." Also watch | Italy migrant crisis: EU Chief, Italy PM Giorgia Meloni visit Lampedusa island × French novelist Michel Houellebecq, in a satirical novel, imagined a France of the near future in which the citizenry, starved of the meaning of Christianity, elects a Muslim leader into power who converts the country en masse to create a French Islamic theocracy. European leaders often refer to Houellebecq as 'Islamophobic'. According to a report published in the Middle East Eye, Italy neither supports the construction of Muslim religious buildings nor does it recognise Islam legally. Present-day Italy, however, recognises the Catholic Church as an independent and sovereign authority. It has signed contracts of recognition with a total of 13 religious communities, including Hindus and Jews. But Muslims lack similar legal recognition. (With inputs from agencies)

'No place for Islam in Europe, compatibility problem': Italy's Giorgia Meloni said in an old video

Sushma Swaraj vs Sonia Gandhi: A Political Battle That Defied Norms

In one of the most dramatic moments of Indian politics, former foreign minister Sushma Swaraj had once vowed to live her entire life like a Hindu widow if Congress leader Sonia Gandhi had become India’s prime minister in 2004.

Sushma’s Opposition to Sonia as Potential Indian PM 

Swaraj later reasoned: “It hurt my sensibilities as even after culmination of British rule and the sacrifices made by fellow Indians, no (native) was there at that time to lead the country and a foreigner was being chosen.” 

Sonia Gandhi contested elections from both Amethi and Karnataka’s Bellary in 1999. In Bellary, BJP fielded Sushma Swaraj. The seeds of ‘Indian beti’ and the ‘foreign bahu’— daughter of India versus Italian daughter-in-law — were sown. Swaraj lost to Gandhi from Bellary.

Dr Manmohan Singh Became India’s Prime Minister

Shortly after Swaraj’s impassioned threat to shave off her head in 2004, the Congress-led United Progressive Alliance (UPA) chose Dr Manmohan Singh as India’s Prime Minister. The spark of foreign-origin debate lit by Swaraj did not really erupt after that.

In 2011, Sonia Gandhi complimented Swaraj while delivering a Commonwealth lecture on women, calling her a woman of substance. The two developed a semblance of stability in the forthcoming years of their respective parliamentary careers.

In August 2015, with both Sonia Gandhi and her son Rahul Gandhi in the house, Swaraj called upon Rahul to ‘ask mumma’ where were the fugitives who left India during Congress rule. Sonia called Swaraj ‘maahir’ (expert) in theatrics.

‘I Feel Her Loss Greatly’: Sonia Gandhi After Swaraj’s Death

After Sushma Swaraj’s demise in August 2019, Sonia Gandhi wrote to Swaraj’s family. “I feel her loss greatly,” Sonia wrote. Sonia Gandhi was seen hugging Sushma Swaraj’s daughter Bansuri when she visited their home to pay her last respects. 

The rivalry between late BJP leader Sushma Swaraj and Congress veteran Sonia Gandhi remains a equation that defied norms. Here's how

Five Russians Who Defined Literature as We Know It

One of the greatest playwrights of all time, ‘The Seagull’ writer’s short stories are held in high esteem by writers and critics around the world.

One of the greatest authors of all time, the ‘War and Peace’ received nominations for the Nobel Prize in Literature every year from 1902 to 1906 and for the Nobel Peace Prize in 1901, 1902, and 1909. His ideas on non-violence had a profound impact on such pivotal 20th-century figures as Mahatma Gandhi.

Fyodor Mikhailovich Dostoevsky, sometimes transliterated as Dostoyevsky, is regarded as one of the greatest novelists in all of world literature. The searing psychological depth of Dostoevsky’s ‘Crime and Punishment’ changed perspectives on what novels could do.

Born in Russian nobility in Moscow, Pushkin is considered by many to be the greatest Russian poet, as well as the founder of modern Russian literature.

Russian literature's influence spans through generations and centuries. These Russian authors defined literature as we know it.

<p>Simba, the majestic lion of Brazil turned 15 and it was a feast for the taste buds of majestic creature and captivating scenes for the visitors on Saturday (Dec 16).</p>

<p>At the zoo in Rio de Janeiro, Simba&nbsp;indulged in a delectable feast made out of meat and chicken. As Simba ate, the distinguished visitors looked on in awe.</p>

<p>The&nbsp; guests at this celebratory affair included zoo visitors and Simba's devoted caretakers who expressed their&nbsp;pride in ensuring the lion's well-being throughout his tenure at the facility.</p>

<p>"I see the lion every day but he is very much in the limelight today. These 15 years, for us it is a great satisfaction to ensure his well-being, knowing that he’s been living well all these years with us, so it is something that we also celebrate,"&nbsp;Simba's caretaker Leticia Feitosa told news agency Reuters.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-climate-tracker-london-zoo-begins-its-annual-headcount-of-animals-549461">A dog on the loose in a Missouri zoo caused an elephant to become so anxious that she died</a></strong></p>

<p>A zoo visitor&nbsp;Natlia Agular told Reuters:&nbsp;"For me, it's incredible because I love lions, I've been here twice this year and he's (Simba) always sleeping, it's the first time I've been able to see him so close, I'm excited, I'm nervous, he's cute, he's a beautiful animal, incredible."</p>

<h2><strong>Biopargue do Rio's initiative</strong></h2>

<p>This festive occasion is integral to the BioParque do Rio's initiative, an&nbsp;animal welfare-focused initiative that implements dynamic routines in order to cater to the behavioural needs of each species.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;WION Climate Tracker: London Zoo begins its annual headcount of animals</strong></p>

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<p>Biologists at the zoo affirm that this program, centered around environmental enrichment, provides stimuli that enable the animals to exhibit behaviours akin to their natural habitats.</p>

<p>This way, the initiative is distinct from usual zookeeping in other parts of the world.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Simba, the majestic lion of Brazil turned 15 and it was a feast for the taste buds of majestic creature and captivating scenes for the visitors on Saturday (Dec 16).

Simba, the majestic lion of Brazil turned 15 and it was a feast for the taste buds of majestic creature and captivating scenes for the visitors on Saturday (Dec 16). At the zoo in Rio de Janeiro, Simba indulged in a delectable feast made out of meat and chicken. As Simba ate, the distinguished visitors looked on in awe. The guests at this celebratory affair included zoo visitors and Simba's devoted caretakers who expressed their pride in ensuring the lion's well-being throughout his tenure at the facility. "I see the lion every day but he is very much in the limelight today. These 15 years, for us it is a great satisfaction to ensure his well-being, knowing that he’s been living well all these years with us, so it is something that we also celebrate," Simba's caretaker Leticia Feitosa told news agency Reuters. Also read | A dog on the loose in a Missouri zoo caused an elephant to become so anxious that she died A zoo visitor Natlia Agular told Reuters: "For me, it's incredible because I love lions, I've been here twice this year and he's (Simba) always sleeping, it's the first time I've been able to see him so close, I'm excited, I'm nervous, he's cute, he's a beautiful animal, incredible." Biopargue do Rio's initiative This festive occasion is integral to the BioParque do Rio's initiative, an animal welfare-focused initiative that implements dynamic routines in order to cater to the behavioural needs of each species. Also watch | WION Climate Tracker: London Zoo begins its annual headcount of animals × Biologists at the zoo affirm that this program, centered around environmental enrichment, provides stimuli that enable the animals to exhibit behaviours akin to their natural habitats. This way, the initiative is distinct from usual zookeeping in other parts of the world. (With inputs from agencies)

Simba the Lion's regal birthday feast captivates visitors at Brazil zoo

<p>Artificial Rain technology was reportedly deployed in Pakistan's Lahore city on Saturday (Dec 16) in an unprecedented first. The move was targeted to address perilous smog levels in Lahore.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ten areas of the megacity were targeted in this groundbreaking experiment, Pakistani media reported.</p>

<p>Caretaker chief minister of Pakistan's Punjab province, Mohsin Naqvi, said that the unprecedented initiative was made possible through the assistance of the United Arab Emirates. The UAE's intervention comes as Pakistan's economy is estimated to have contracted during the current financial&nbsp;year, according to World Bank data.</p>

<p>Emirati teams, accompanied by two specialised planes equipped with cloud seeding technology, arrived in Lahore approximately 10 to 12 days ago.</p>

<p>&nbsp;"The gift of artificial rain from the United Arab Emirates is an innovative approach to tackle the ongoing smog crisis," stated Naqvi during a media briefing.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The effectiveness of the artificial rain was expected to be assessed by Saturday night, providing crucial insights into the potential of this groundbreaking method.</p>

<p>Cloud seeding, colloquially known as artificial rain or blueskying, involves releasing common salt or a mixture of salts into clouds.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>'Gift from UAE'</strong></h2>

<p>This process stimulates condensation, leading to rainfall. Countries like the United States, China, and the UAE have&nbsp;been increasingly using this weather modification technique to address water scarcity in its arid regions.</p>

<p>Lahore, infamous&nbsp;for being one of the worst global hotspots for air pollution, experiences increased levels of smog during winter due to a combination of low-grade diesel emissions, stubble&nbsp;burning, and cold temperatures.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/how-delhis-artificial-rain-plan-is-a-potential-solution-to-pollution-crisis-656631">How Delhi's artificial rain plan is a potential solution to pollution crisis</a></strong></p>

<p>With over 11 million residents affected, the city faces severe health risks, exacerbated by the hazardous levels of PM2.5 pollutants measured at more than 66 times the World Health Organization's safety thresholds on Saturday.</p>

<p>The catastrophic health consequences of prolonged exposure to such toxic air includes strokes, heart diseases, lung cancer, and respiratory ailments, according to the World Health Organization.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Will cloud-seeding seek to ease Delhi pollution?</strong></p>

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<p>Despite previous attempts to mitigate air pollution through measures like road spraying and weekend shutdowns, the local administration has struggled to achieve substantial success.</p>

<p>When questioned about a long-term strategy to combat smog, Chief Minister Naqvi called for the need for comprehensive studies to formulate an effective plan.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Artificial Rain technology was reportedly deployed in Pakistan's Lahore city on Saturday (Dec 16) in an unprecedented first. The move was targeted to address perilous smog levels in Lahore.

Artificial Rain technology was reportedly deployed in Pakistan's Lahore city on Saturday (Dec 16) in an unprecedented first. The move was targeted to address perilous smog levels in Lahore. Ten areas of the megacity were targeted in this groundbreaking experiment, Pakistani media reported. Caretaker chief minister of Pakistan's Punjab province, Mohsin Naqvi, said that the unprecedented initiative was made possible through the assistance of the United Arab Emirates. The UAE's intervention comes as Pakistan's economy is estimated to have contracted during the current financial year, according to World Bank data. Emirati teams, accompanied by two specialised planes equipped with cloud seeding technology, arrived in Lahore approximately 10 to 12 days ago. "The gift of artificial rain from the United Arab Emirates is an innovative approach to tackle the ongoing smog crisis," stated Naqvi during a media briefing. The effectiveness of the artificial rain was expected to be assessed by Saturday night, providing crucial insights into the potential of this groundbreaking method. Cloud seeding, colloquially known as artificial rain or blueskying, involves releasing common salt or a mixture of salts into clouds. 'Gift from UAE' This process stimulates condensation, leading to rainfall. Countries like the United States, China, and the UAE have been increasingly using this weather modification technique to address water scarcity in its arid regions. Lahore, infamous for being one of the worst global hotspots for air pollution, experiences increased levels of smog during winter due to a combination of low-grade diesel emissions, stubble burning, and cold temperatures. Also read | How Delhi's artificial rain plan is a potential solution to pollution crisis With over 11 million residents affected, the city faces severe health risks, exacerbated by the hazardous levels of PM2.5 pollutants measured at more than 66 times the World Health Organization's safety thresholds on Saturday. The catastrophic health consequences of prolonged exposure to such toxic air includes strokes, heart diseases, lung cancer, and respiratory ailments, according to the World Health Organization. Also watch | Gravitas: Will cloud-seeding seek to ease Delhi pollution? × Despite previous attempts to mitigate air pollution through measures like road spraying and weekend shutdowns, the local administration has struggled to achieve substantial success. When questioned about a long-term strategy to combat smog, Chief Minister Naqvi called for the need for comprehensive studies to formulate an effective plan. (With inputs from agencies)

UAE 'gifts' bankruptcy-hit Pakistan artificial rain

<p>This week, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky made his third wartime visit to Washington in order to make a personal plea for the military and economic aid he said Kyiv needs to face Russia during ongoing war. He returned after failing&nbsp;to secure new commitments for weapons from Washington amid wide political divisions on the Capitol Hill.</p>

<p>Unlike his <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-in-us-congress-american-aid-to-ukraine-investment-not-charity-will-never-surrender-to-putin-545311">first wartime visit to Washington</a> in December 2022, when he became an unmissable figure on television screens worldwide during his address to the US Congress, there were no cheers or whistles for the Ukrainian leader in the American corridors of power.</p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2022/12/22/320163-untitled-design-2022-12-22t144026978.png?imwidth=3840" /></p>

<p><em>Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky presented a Ukrainian flag given to him by 'defenders of Bakhmut' to US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi after his address to the US Congress on Dec 21, 2023 | AFP</em>&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Your money is not charity, it's an investment in the global security and democracy that we will handle in the most responsible way," Zelensky had promised the US Congress on December 21, 2022.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A year down the line, and after <a href="https://www.ifw-kiel.de/topics/war-against-ukraine/ukraine-support-tracker/">receiving over $75 billion</a> in assistance from the United States — which includes humanitarian, financial, and military support&nbsp;— Kyiv is failing to thwart Russian advances on the frontline.</p>

<p>Some of these US-supplied&nbsp;weapons were <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/how-weapons-sent-by-west-got-stolen-in-ukraine-pentagon-report-reveals-618421">stolen</a> by criminals, purported volunteer fighters and arms traffickers, a report from the US defence department's inspector general revealed in July 2023.&nbsp;Ukrainian criminals posed as aid workers to steal bulletproof vests, the report further added.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Report: Kyiv can't account for 'hundreds of millions' in weapons | Russia-Ukraine War</strong></p>

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<p>On the face of it, the US House Republicans are opposing Joe Biden's latest&nbsp;$61.4 billion aid package for Ukraine by citing the need for more funding for the US border security. But at its core, the durability of Washington-led western commitments to Ukraine remains uncertain amid Russian frontline belligerence.</p>

<p>Later this week, Kyiv turned to Brussels, the&nbsp;de-facto capital of European Union.&nbsp;</p>

<p>European Union's financial aid, while less visible than American guns and ammunition, is no less vital for Ukraine’s survival amid the ongoing war.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But even in Brussels, Kyiv's bid to fund its survival failed due to Hungary's intervention.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Charles Michel, the president of the European Council, said that all but one of the EU's 27 countries backed the package of&nbsp; about $52 billion, in financial support for Ukraine.</p>

<p>"One leader couldn’t agree on this," Michel said on Friday (Dec 15) while&nbsp;referring to Prime Minister Viktor Orban of Hungary.</p>

<p>The only symbolic win Kyiv could claim this week was that the European Union&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-next-eu-member-kyiv-may-get-membership-lifeboat-amid-sinking-wartime-fortunes-669784">agreed</a> to open membership talks with the country at war with Russia.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But Kyiv's accession to EU could take years as&nbsp;the process to join the EU is lengthy and complicated. In both Washington and Brussels, Kyiv suffered&nbsp;diplomatic setbacks that can vitally impact Kyiv's military effort in the ongoing war against Russia.&nbsp;</p>


This week, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky made his third wartime visit to Washington in order to make a personal plea for the military and economic aid he said Kyiv needs to face Russia during ongoing war.

This week, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky made his third wartime visit to Washington in order to make a personal plea for the military and economic aid he said Kyiv needs to face Russia during ongoing war. He returned after failing to secure new commitments for weapons from Washington amid wide political divisions on the Capitol Hill. Unlike his first wartime visit to Washington in December 2022, when he became an unmissable figure on television screens worldwide during his address to the US Congress, there were no cheers or whistles for the Ukrainian leader in the American corridors of power. Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky presented a Ukrainian flag given to him by 'defenders of Bakhmut' to US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi after his address to the US Congress on Dec 21, 2023 | AFP "Your money is not charity, it's an investment in the global security and democracy that we will handle in the most responsible way," Zelensky had promised the US Congress on December 21, 2022. A year down the line, and after receiving over $75 billion in assistance from the United States — which includes humanitarian, financial, and military support — Kyiv is failing to thwart Russian advances on the frontline. Some of these US-supplied weapons were stolen by criminals, purported volunteer fighters and arms traffickers, a report from the US defence department's inspector general revealed in July 2023. Ukrainian criminals posed as aid workers to steal bulletproof vests, the report further added. Also watch | Report: Kyiv can't account for 'hundreds of millions' in weapons | Russia-Ukraine War × On the face of it, the US House Republicans are opposing Joe Biden's latest $61.4 billion aid package for Ukraine by citing the need for more funding for the US border security. But at its core, the durability of Washington-led western commitments to Ukraine remains uncertain amid Russian frontline belligerence. Later this week, Kyiv turned to Brussels, the de-facto capital of European Union. European Union's financial aid, while less visible than American guns and ammunition, is no less vital for Ukraine’s survival amid the ongoing war. But even in Brussels, Kyiv's bid to fund its survival failed due to Hungary's intervention. Charles Michel, the president of the European Council, said that all but one of the EU's 27 countries backed the package of about $52 billion, in financial support for Ukraine. "One leader couldn’t agree on this," Michel said on Friday (Dec 15) while referring to Prime Minister Viktor Orban of Hungary. The only symbolic win Kyiv could claim this week was that the European Union agreed to open membership talks with the country at war with Russia. But Kyiv's accession to EU could take years as the process to join the EU is lengthy and complicated. In both Washington and Brussels, Kyiv suffered diplomatic setbacks that can vitally impact Kyiv's military effort in the ongoing war against Russia.

The Capitals: Kyiv suffers one blow after another from Washington, Brussels

<p>Serbians on Sunday (Dec 17) are voting in the country's parliamentary elections, the tenth such voting exercise&nbsp;since the 1998-1999 Kosovo conflict that led to the creation of Republic of Kosovo with partial international recognition.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The voting is taking place&nbsp;six months after mass shootings left the country in shock and sparked protests against pro-Russian President Aleksandar Vucic. The parliamentary and local elections are taking place simultaneously in Serbia.</p>

<p>The early elections were called after President&nbsp;Aleksandar Vucic dissolved the parliament in capital Belgrade in November&nbsp;and called an early election on December 17. The move was widely described as Vucic's bid to&nbsp;cement his authority as he works out how to normalise ties with Kosovo, the main precondition for EU membership.</p>

<h2><strong>Serbia elections 2023: Context and Implications</strong></h2>

<p>President Vucic is not on the ballot in Sunday's parliamentary and local elections. The contest, however, is still being seen as a referendum on his government. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Vucic's populist Serbian Progressive Party (SNS) has a double-digit lead over the leading opposition coalition, according to a latest poll by Ipsos.</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-9">Another pre-election opinion poll by the Nova Srpska Politicka Misao website placed the SNS and its alliance Serbia Must Not Stop in the lead with 39.8 per cent&nbsp;of the vote, followed by Serbia Against Violence alliance at 25.6 per cent and the Socialist Party (SPS) of outgoing Foreign Minister Ivica Dacic, a long-time SNS coalition partner, with 8.9 per cent.</p>

<h2><strong>Capital Belgrade remains out of President Vucic's reach so far</strong></h2>

<p>The SNS faces hard-fought municipal races in the capital Belgrade, due to a loose coalition of opposition parties and candidates running under the "Serbia Against Violence" banner.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The 'Serbia Against Violence'&nbsp;movement was formed in the wake of back-to-back mass shootings earlier this year that spurred hundreds of thousands to take to the streets.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The rallies quickly morphed into anti-government protests that lasted months.</p>

<p>"It's not about me leaving power, but about them destroying everything," Vucic&nbsp;told supporters at a recent rally. &nbsp;</p>

<p>"It would take us 20 years to fix everything... That's why we'll beat them more convincingly than ever."</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/serbias-vucic-dissolves-parliament-sets-snap-vote-for-dec-17-653968">Serbia's President Vucic dissolves parliament, sets snap election for Dec 17</a></strong></p>

<p>As polls opened at 7:00 AM local time (0600 GMT), lines had already formed in the capital Belgrade.</p>

<p>"I came early to support our president, he must continue his work," said Stojan Milenkovic, a 67-year-old retired resident.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However others were hoping that the contest would bring a fresh change to the country's political scene.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I hope the results will put an end to the devastation of our capital," Milica Pavkov, a 28-year-old cashier, told AFP.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Why are tensions on the rise between Serbia &amp; Kosovo? | World at War</strong></p>

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<p>Since the beginning of Russia-Ukraine war in February 2022, Serbia has become a hub for Russian émigrés and businesses trying to keep a foothold in Europe amid western sanctions.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Serbians on Sunday (Dec 17) are voting in the country's parliamentary elections, the tenth such voting exercise since the 1998-1999 Kosovo conflict that led to the creation of Republic of Kosovo with partial international recognition.

Serbians on Sunday (Dec 17) are voting in the country's parliamentary elections, the tenth such voting exercise since the 1998-1999 Kosovo conflict that led to the creation of Republic of Kosovo with partial international recognition. The voting is taking place six months after mass shootings left the country in shock and sparked protests against pro-Russian President Aleksandar Vucic. The parliamentary and local elections are taking place simultaneously in Serbia. The early elections were called after President Aleksandar Vucic dissolved the parliament in capital Belgrade in November and called an early election on December 17. The move was widely described as Vucic's bid to cement his authority as he works out how to normalise ties with Kosovo, the main precondition for EU membership. Serbia elections 2023: Context and Implications President Vucic is not on the ballot in Sunday's parliamentary and local elections. The contest, however, is still being seen as a referendum on his government. Vucic's populist Serbian Progressive Party (SNS) has a double-digit lead over the leading opposition coalition, according to a latest poll by Ipsos. Another pre-election opinion poll by the Nova Srpska Politicka Misao website placed the SNS and its alliance Serbia Must Not Stop in the lead with 39.8 per cent of the vote, followed by Serbia Against Violence alliance at 25.6 per cent and the Socialist Party (SPS) of outgoing Foreign Minister Ivica Dacic, a long-time SNS coalition partner, with 8.9 per cent. Capital Belgrade remains out of President Vucic's reach so far The SNS faces hard-fought municipal races in the capital Belgrade, due to a loose coalition of opposition parties and candidates running under the "Serbia Against Violence" banner. The 'Serbia Against Violence' movement was formed in the wake of back-to-back mass shootings earlier this year that spurred hundreds of thousands to take to the streets. The rallies quickly morphed into anti-government protests that lasted months. "It's not about me leaving power, but about them destroying everything," Vucic told supporters at a recent rally. "It would take us 20 years to fix everything... That's why we'll beat them more convincingly than ever." Also read | Serbia's President Vucic dissolves parliament, sets snap election for Dec 17 As polls opened at 7:00 AM local time (0600 GMT), lines had already formed in the capital Belgrade. "I came early to support our president, he must continue his work," said Stojan Milenkovic, a 67-year-old retired resident. However others were hoping that the contest would bring a fresh change to the country's political scene. "I hope the results will put an end to the devastation of our capital," Milica Pavkov, a 28-year-old cashier, told AFP. Also watch | Why are tensions on the rise between Serbia & Kosovo? | World at War × Since the beginning of Russia-Ukraine war in February 2022, Serbia has become a hub for Russian émigrés and businesses trying to keep a foothold in Europe amid western sanctions. (With inputs from agencies)

Serbia: President Aleksandar Vucic's grip on power goes to test in snap polls

<p>India became the first country in the world to demonstrate the ability to engage four targets at once with its single firing unit the&nbsp;Akash surface-to-air (SAM) weapon system, defence officials told news agency ANI.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"India demonstrated the firepower of the indigenous Akash missile system, where four targets (unmanned aerial targets) were engaged simultaneously by a single Akash firing unit. The demonstration was conducted by the IAF during Astrashakti 2023 at Suryalanka Air Force Station on December 12," they said.</p>

<h2><strong>How India's ‘Akash’ engaged four targets at once?</strong></h2>

<p>The officials told ANI that during the recently held Exercise Astrashakti 2023,&nbsp;four targets coming from same direction in a close formation were split to attack their own defence assets from multiple directions simultaneously.</p>

<p><em>Astrashakti</em> literally means power of weapons.</p>

<p>"The Akash firing unit was deployed with Firing Level Radar (FLR), Firing Control Centre (FCC), and two Akash Air Force Launcher (AAFL) launchers having five armed missiles," they said, according to ANI.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/which-are-the-deadliest-missiles-filling-up-indias-arsenal-indias-next-generation-of-missiles-585840">Which are the deadliest missiles filling up India's arsenal? India's next generation of missiles</a></strong></p>

<p>The targets were assigned to the Akash Firing Unit to neutralise. The firing commands were issued and engagement with the four&nbsp;targets occurred as per system capability.</p>

<p>"Two Akash missiles were launched from two launchers and the same launcher was assigned for next two targets. A total of four missiles were launched within a short span and all four targets were successfully engaged at maximum range (around 30 km) simultaneously," they said.</p>

<h2><strong>What does it mean?</strong></h2>

<p>According to data by Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), India has been the world's largest arms importer since 1993.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the recent years, New Delhi has made consistent efforts to turn the tide by pushing weapon exports of India-made weapons. In 2022, India clinched a deal with Philippines to export Brahmos supersonic cruise missile. New Delhi is in talks with over a dozen countries for export of Brahmos&nbsp;supersonic cruise missile.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Which are the deadliest missiles filling up India's arsenal?</strong></p>

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<p>The successful demonstration of Akash missile system would add to India's weapon-export initiatives.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Akash Weapon System is indigenously designed and developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and produced by defence public sector units along with other industries.</p>

<p>Akash has been deployed by the Indian Air Force and the Indian Army for the last decade.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">DRDO chairman Dr Samir V Kamat on Thursday unveiled the model of the Akash surface-to-air missile at the IIT, Bombay. The model of the indigenous missile, which has been inducted into the Indian armed forces and also being acquired by foreign customers, has been put up in the IIT… <a href="https://t.co/NUwPhKDojG">pic.twitter.com/NUwPhKDojG</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1725390178217541980?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 17, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Recently, DRDO chief Dr Samir Kamat inaugurated a replica of the missile at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) in Mumbai to attract youngsters towards defence research and development.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


India became the first country in the world to demonstrate the ability to engage four targets at once with its single firing unit the Akash surface-to-air (SAM) weapon system, defence officials told news agency ANI.

India became the first country in the world to demonstrate the ability to engage four targets at once with its single firing unit the Akash surface-to-air (SAM) weapon system, defence officials told news agency ANI. "India demonstrated the firepower of the indigenous Akash missile system, where four targets (unmanned aerial targets) were engaged simultaneously by a single Akash firing unit. The demonstration was conducted by the IAF during Astrashakti 2023 at Suryalanka Air Force Station on December 12," they said. How India's ‘Akash’ engaged four targets at once? The officials told ANI that during the recently held Exercise Astrashakti 2023, four targets coming from same direction in a close formation were split to attack their own defence assets from multiple directions simultaneously. Astrashakti literally means power of weapons. "The Akash firing unit was deployed with Firing Level Radar (FLR), Firing Control Centre (FCC), and two Akash Air Force Launcher (AAFL) launchers having five armed missiles," they said, according to ANI. Also read | Which are the deadliest missiles filling up India's arsenal? India's next generation of missiles The targets were assigned to the Akash Firing Unit to neutralise. The firing commands were issued and engagement with the four targets occurred as per system capability. "Two Akash missiles were launched from two launchers and the same launcher was assigned for next two targets. A total of four missiles were launched within a short span and all four targets were successfully engaged at maximum range (around 30 km) simultaneously," they said. What does it mean? According to data by Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), India has been the world's largest arms importer since 1993. In the recent years, New Delhi has made consistent efforts to turn the tide by pushing weapon exports of India-made weapons. In 2022, India clinched a deal with Philippines to export Brahmos supersonic cruise missile. New Delhi is in talks with over a dozen countries for export of Brahmos supersonic cruise missile. Also watch | Which are the deadliest missiles filling up India's arsenal? × The successful demonstration of Akash missile system would add to India's weapon-export initiatives. The Akash Weapon System is indigenously designed and developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and produced by defence public sector units along with other industries. Akash has been deployed by the Indian Air Force and the Indian Army for the last decade. DRDO chairman Dr Samir V Kamat on Thursday unveiled the model of the Akash surface-to-air missile at the IIT, Bombay. The model of the indigenous missile, which has been inducted into the Indian armed forces and also being acquired by foreign customers, has been put up in the IIT… pic.twitter.com/NUwPhKDojG — ANI (@ANI) November 17, 2023 × Recently, DRDO chief Dr Samir Kamat inaugurated a replica of the missile at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) in Mumbai to attract youngsters towards defence research and development. (With inputs from agencies)

India demonstrates unmatched ‘Astrashakti’ as ‘Akash’ unit neutralises four targets in one go

<p>Delhi police on Saturday (Dec 16)&nbsp;made the sixth arrest in the Parliament security breach case when two men jumped into the House and released coloured smoke earlier this week. Mahesh Kumawat was taken into custody today for allegedly helping the 'mastermind' Lalit Jha escape from Delhi.</p>

<p>Mahesh Kumawat came on his own to a police station along with Lalit Jha on Thursday (Dec 15) night. The duo was handed over to the Special Cell. Kumawat is&nbsp;being interrogated since then.</p>

<p>Kumawat too, like the rest of the five accused involved in the breach,&nbsp;was a member of the now deleted Bhagat Singh Fan Club page allegedly created by Lalit Jha.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Parliament Security Breach: Mastermind Lalit Jha makes big revelation after surrender | WION</strong></p>

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<p>Kumawat was arrested on charges of destruction of evidence and criminal conspiracy, according to the police.</p>

<p>Later during the day, he was sent to 7-day police custody.</p>

<p>Special Judge Hardeep Kaur remanded Kumawat in Delhi police's custody after the public prosecutor alleged that he was involved in the destruction of mobile phones of the accused.</p>

<h2><strong>But spotlight remains on 'mastermind' Lalit Jha</strong></h2>

<p>Police are also interrogating Lalit Jha, who allegedly is the 'mastermind' behind the parliament breach.</p>

<p>Jha hails from West Bengal, and was sent to seven-day police custody on Friday after his arrest a day before. Police claimed in Delhi's Patiala House court that he admitted that the accused met many times to hatch the conspiracy to breach Parliament security.</p>

<h2><strong>Om Birla writes to parliamentarians</strong></h2>

<p>Separately,&nbsp;on Saturday (Dec 16), Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla wrote a letter to all the members of Parliament to inform that there is no link between the security breach and the recent suspension of 13 MPs from the lower house.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/wion-explains-behind-the-chaos-exploring-the-dynamics-of-mp-suspensions-in-indian-parliament-670013">Indian Parliament security breach: Exploring the dynamics of suspension of MPs</a></strong></p>

<p>"It is indeed unfortunate that some Members and political parties are linking the decision of the House to suspend some members from the service of the House to the incident which occurred on December 13, 2023," the speaker said in his statement.</p>

<p>Birla further added, "This is unwarranted. There is no association between the suspension of the Members to the incident on December 13. The suspension is purely to uphold the sanctity of the house."</p>


Delhi police on Saturday (Dec 16) made the sixth arrest in the Parliament security breach case when two men jumped into the House and released coloured smoke earlier this week.

Delhi police on Saturday (Dec 16) made the sixth arrest in the Parliament security breach case when two men jumped into the House and released coloured smoke earlier this week. Mahesh Kumawat was taken into custody today for allegedly helping the 'mastermind' Lalit Jha escape from Delhi. Mahesh Kumawat came on his own to a police station along with Lalit Jha on Thursday (Dec 15) night. The duo was handed over to the Special Cell. Kumawat is being interrogated since then. Kumawat too, like the rest of the five accused involved in the breach, was a member of the now deleted Bhagat Singh Fan Club page allegedly created by Lalit Jha. Also watch | Parliament Security Breach: Mastermind Lalit Jha makes big revelation after surrender | WION × Kumawat was arrested on charges of destruction of evidence and criminal conspiracy, according to the police. Later during the day, he was sent to 7-day police custody. Special Judge Hardeep Kaur remanded Kumawat in Delhi police's custody after the public prosecutor alleged that he was involved in the destruction of mobile phones of the accused. But spotlight remains on 'mastermind' Lalit Jha Police are also interrogating Lalit Jha, who allegedly is the 'mastermind' behind the parliament breach. Jha hails from West Bengal, and was sent to seven-day police custody on Friday after his arrest a day before. Police claimed in Delhi's Patiala House court that he admitted that the accused met many times to hatch the conspiracy to breach Parliament security. Om Birla writes to parliamentarians Separately, on Saturday (Dec 16), Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla wrote a letter to all the members of Parliament to inform that there is no link between the security breach and the recent suspension of 13 MPs from the lower house. Also read | Indian Parliament security breach: Exploring the dynamics of suspension of MPs "It is indeed unfortunate that some Members and political parties are linking the decision of the House to suspend some members from the service of the House to the incident which occurred on December 13, 2023," the speaker said in his statement. Birla further added, "This is unwarranted. There is no association between the suspension of the Members to the incident on December 13. The suspension is purely to uphold the sanctity of the house."

Indian Parliament security breach: Sixth person arrested as authorities expand probe net

<p>In a major boost to Indian passport's strength, the list of visa-free countries for Indian citizens has just extended.&nbsp;This week, both Kenya and Iran abolished visa requirements for Indian passport holders.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Kenya's visa free travel for Indians: What does it mean?</strong></h2>

<p>Kenya's&nbsp;Maasai Mara National Reserve is a popular tourist destination among Indians.</p>

<p>It is one of the most coveted wildlife destinations in Kenya and Africa, and a premier conservation area. It is also one of the few places on earth where wild animals and their ecosystem exist in a highly protected environment.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indonesia-proposes-visa-free-arrivals-for-20-countries-including-india-668158">Indonesia proposes visa-free arrivals for 20 countries, including India</a> &nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>A visa-free travel to Kenya may set the ball rolling for more number of Indian tourists in the country.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Iran's visa free travel for Indians: What does it mean?</strong></h2>

<p>About 15 per cent of all Muslims in India belong to the Shiite sect, and a visa free travel to&nbsp;Iran would&nbsp;boost the prospect of religious tourism into the West Asian country from India. Iran also holds significance as the birthplace of Zoroastrian faith.</p>

<p>While the number of Indians owing allegiance to this faith are&nbsp;few,&nbsp;a visa-free travel to Iran means easy access to&nbsp;the most important holy places in Iran for Zoroastrians&nbsp;in Yazd province.</p>

<h2><strong>Visa free travel for Indians: Where all can Indians travel without visa?</strong></h2>

<p>This news follows recent announcements from Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Malaysia, which have also granted visa-free entry to Indian passport holders.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;China visa-free initiative: China's visa-waiver sparks surge in European tourist numbers | WION</strong></p>

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<p>According to the 2023 Passport Index by Henley and Partners, Indians can now travel to 57 countries without visa hassles, encompassing destinations with visa-free travel, visa-on-arrival facilities, and Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA).</p>

<p>The expanded list reflects a positive trend in facilitating global travel for Indian citizens.</p>

<h2><strong>Full list of countries with visa free/on arrival for Indian passport holders</strong></h2>

<p>Full list of countries that either offer visa free or visa on arrival facility for Indian passport holders is as following:</p>

<p>Albania, Barbados, Bolivia, Botswana, Burundi, Bhutan, British Virgin Islands, Cambodia, Cape Verde Islands, Comoro Islands, Cook Islands, Dominica, El Salvador, Ethiopia, Fiji, Gabon, Guinea-Bissau, Grenada, Haiti, Indonesia, Iran, Jordan, Jamaica, Kazakhstan, Laos, Madagascar, Maldives, Marshall Islands, Mauritania, Macao (SAR China), Micronesia, Mauritius, Montserrat, Mozambique, Myanmar, Nepal, Niue, Oman, Palau Islands, Qatar, Rwanda, Samoa, Seychelles, Sierra Leone, &nbsp;Senegal, Somalia, Saint Lucia, Sri Lanka, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Tanzania, Timor-Leste, Thailand, Togo, Tuvalu, Trinidad and Tobago, Tunisia, Uganda, Vanuatu, Zimbabwe.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


In a major boost to Indian passport's strength, the list of visa-free countries for Indian citizens has just extended. This week, both Kenya and Iran abolished visa requirements for Indian passport holders.

In a major boost to Indian passport's strength, the list of visa-free countries for Indian citizens has just extended. This week, both Kenya and Iran abolished visa requirements for Indian passport holders. Kenya's visa free travel for Indians: What does it mean? Kenya's Maasai Mara National Reserve is a popular tourist destination among Indians. It is one of the most coveted wildlife destinations in Kenya and Africa, and a premier conservation area. It is also one of the few places on earth where wild animals and their ecosystem exist in a highly protected environment. Also read | Indonesia proposes visa-free arrivals for 20 countries, including India A visa-free travel to Kenya may set the ball rolling for more number of Indian tourists in the country. Iran's visa free travel for Indians: What does it mean? About 15 per cent of all Muslims in India belong to the Shiite sect, and a visa free travel to Iran would boost the prospect of religious tourism into the West Asian country from India. Iran also holds significance as the birthplace of Zoroastrian faith. While the number of Indians owing allegiance to this faith are few, a visa-free travel to Iran means easy access to the most important holy places in Iran for Zoroastrians in Yazd province. Visa free travel for Indians: Where all can Indians travel without visa? This news follows recent announcements from Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Malaysia, which have also granted visa-free entry to Indian passport holders. Also watch | China visa-free initiative: China's visa-waiver sparks surge in European tourist numbers | WION × According to the 2023 Passport Index by Henley and Partners, Indians can now travel to 57 countries without visa hassles, encompassing destinations with visa-free travel, visa-on-arrival facilities, and Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA). The expanded list reflects a positive trend in facilitating global travel for Indian citizens. Full list of countries with visa free/on arrival for Indian passport holders Full list of countries that either offer visa free or visa on arrival facility for Indian passport holders is as following: Albania, Barbados, Bolivia, Botswana, Burundi, Bhutan, British Virgin Islands, Cambodia, Cape Verde Islands, Comoro Islands, Cook Islands, Dominica, El Salvador, Ethiopia, Fiji, Gabon, Guinea-Bissau, Grenada, Haiti, Indonesia, Iran, Jordan, Jamaica, Kazakhstan, Laos, Madagascar, Maldives, Marshall Islands, Mauritania, Macao (SAR China), Micronesia, Mauritius, Montserrat, Mozambique, Myanmar, Nepal, Niue, Oman, Palau Islands, Qatar, Rwanda, Samoa, Seychelles, Sierra Leone, Senegal, Somalia, Saint Lucia, Sri Lanka, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Tanzania, Timor-Leste, Thailand, Togo, Tuvalu, Trinidad and Tobago, Tunisia, Uganda, Vanuatu, Zimbabwe. (With inputs from agencies)

With 'visa-free' travel, Indians can now add Kenya's Maasai Mara to their bucket list

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