<p>Pakistan extended the legal residence of nearly 1.4 million Afghan refugees until the end of 2023 but said it would not stop deporting the Afghans it says are "undocumented".&nbsp;</p>

<p>The development comes amid relentless international pressure calling for the relief to the refugee community living in Pakistan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"[The] government of Pakistan is pleased to extend the validity of the Proof of Registration, or PoR, cards issued to the registered Afghan refugees … till [31st] December 2023," according to an official announcement.</p>

<h2><strong>What does it mean?</strong></h2>

<p>The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees spokesperson in Pakistan has welcomed&nbsp;the decision.</p>

<p>The Proof of Registration or the PoR cards of the Afghan refugees, comprising those who fled conflict and persecution in late 1970s, had expired on June 30, 2023. The extension of the validity of PoR cards was denied by Islamabad without any&nbsp;explanation for the subsequent delay.</p>

<p>Now, Afghan refugees will be able to get their PoR cards extended.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What had happened?</strong></h2>

<p>In early October, Islamabad asked all foreigners lacking legal documents to voluntarily leave within a month.</p>

<p>Failure to comply by the November 1 deadline would result in arrest and deportation for violating immigration laws.</p>

<p>The caretaker Prime Minister Anwar ul-Haq Kakar reported over 250,000 Afghan individuals having voluntarily returned to Afghanistan since the deportation plan's announcement, a move criticised by Afghanistan's Taliban government and international rights groups.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/explained-why-is-pakistan-asking-17-million-afghan-nationals-to-leave-its-territory-654025">Explained | Why is Pakistan asking 1.7 million Afghan nationals to leave its territory?</a></strong></p>

<p>Over 600,000 Afghans, including those who fled the Taliban's takeover in Kabul, face eviction due to expired visas or lack of legal documents.</p>

<h2><strong>The Washington factor</strong></h2>

<p>The US aims to prevent the forced expulsion of approximately 25,000 eligible for relocation or resettlement as part of its policy to house individuals who assisted US troops during its military operations in Afghanistan after 9/11 attacks.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-claims-60-pc-rise-in-terror-after-investing-in-afghanistans-taliban-regime-656479">After backing Taliban for years, Pakistan now claims 60 pc rise in terror from Afghanistan</a></strong></p>

<p>During a news conference, the Pakistani caretaker PM assured that individuals listed by the US would not be forcibly removed.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Pakistan refugee crisis: Bulldozer razes homes of Afghan refugees in Pakistan</strong></p>

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<p>The US and western troops withdrew from Afghanistan in August 2021, allowing the Taliban to reclaim power after two decades to pave the way for a repressive regime that has curtailed rights of women and any semblance of democracy in the South Asian country located&nbsp;at the crossroads of Central and West Asia.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
<em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Pakistan extended the legal residence of nearly 1.4 million Afghan refugees until the end of 2023 but said it would not stop deporting the Afghans it says are "undocumented".

Pakistan extended the legal residence of nearly 1.4 million Afghan refugees until the end of 2023 but said it would not stop deporting the Afghans it says are "undocumented". The development comes amid relentless international pressure calling for the relief to the refugee community living in Pakistan. "[The] government of Pakistan is pleased to extend the validity of the Proof of Registration, or PoR, cards issued to the registered Afghan refugees … till [31st] December 2023," according to an official announcement. What does it mean? The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees spokesperson in Pakistan has welcomed the decision. The Proof of Registration or the PoR cards of the Afghan refugees, comprising those who fled conflict and persecution in late 1970s, had expired on June 30, 2023. The extension of the validity of PoR cards was denied by Islamabad without any explanation for the subsequent delay. Now, Afghan refugees will be able to get their PoR cards extended. What had happened? In early October, Islamabad asked all foreigners lacking legal documents to voluntarily leave within a month. Failure to comply by the November 1 deadline would result in arrest and deportation for violating immigration laws. The caretaker Prime Minister Anwar ul-Haq Kakar reported over 250,000 Afghan individuals having voluntarily returned to Afghanistan since the deportation plan's announcement, a move criticised by Afghanistan's Taliban government and international rights groups. Also read | Explained | Why is Pakistan asking 1.7 million Afghan nationals to leave its territory? Over 600,000 Afghans, including those who fled the Taliban's takeover in Kabul, face eviction due to expired visas or lack of legal documents. The Washington factor The US aims to prevent the forced expulsion of approximately 25,000 eligible for relocation or resettlement as part of its policy to house individuals who assisted US troops during its military operations in Afghanistan after 9/11 attacks. Also read | After backing Taliban for years, Pakistan now claims 60 pc rise in terror from Afghanistan During a news conference, the Pakistani caretaker PM assured that individuals listed by the US would not be forcibly removed. Also watch | Pakistan refugee crisis: Bulldozer razes homes of Afghan refugees in Pakistan × The US and western troops withdrew from Afghanistan in August 2021, allowing the Taliban to reclaim power after two decades to pave the way for a repressive regime that has curtailed rights of women and any semblance of democracy in the South Asian country located at the crossroads of Central and West Asia. (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan says it is extending stay of nearly 1.4 million Afghan refugees till the end of 2023

<p>Earth's potential to attract&nbsp;extraterrestrial beings may have been more pronounced during the time of dinosaurs than during present day and age, research by astrobiologists from Cornell University suggests.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In their comprehensive analysis spanning 540 million years, encapsulating the Phanerozoic Eon, the researchers delved into the shifts of biomarkers crucial for detecting signs of life across vast cosmic distances.</p>

<h2><strong>When aliens could have potentially visited Earth?</strong></h2>

<p>Two pivotal biomarker pairs, oxygen and methane, along with ozone and methane, emerged as notably robust between 100 to 300 million years ago. This phenomenon was primarily attributed to an abundance of greenery that significantly elevated oxygen levels in Earth's atmosphere during those times.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mexican-congress-deems-three-fingered-mummies-real-but-refrains-from-confirming-alien-origins-656555">Mexican congress deems three-fingered mummies 'real,' but refrains from confirming alien origins</a></strong></p>

<p>This means that potential hypothetical extraterrestrial beings at the time with&nbsp;advanced telescopes might have identified our planet more readily during the Jurassic era than they could in the present times.</p>

<h2><strong>Our world, 400 million years ago</strong></h2>

<p>The research also considered factors influencing atmospheric oxygen levels, such as the extent of forest cover on land, the variety of marine species in oceans, and prevailing weather patterns.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Over the past 400 million years, atmospheric oxygen is thought to have fluctuated within the 16-35 per cent range, often referred to as the 'fire window.'&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;UFOs and aliens: What's the truth?</strong></p>

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<p>Within this range, fires could ignite without difficulty, yet remain controllable—a delicate balance crucial for the development and sustenance of life.</p>

<h2><strong>How are Earthians looking for alien life in our vast universe?</strong></h2>

<p>Astronomers are engaged in a collective endeavor to identify analogous light fingerprints, or transmission spectra, that may indicate the presence of atmospheres capable of supporting life forms familiar to us.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Armed with cutting-edge technology, such as the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST), scientists now possess the capability to study the atmospheres of exoplanets.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But the evolutionary path of life on Earth serves as a reminder that while we can explore and analyse distant worlds, the distinctiveness of life's progression remains uncertain.</p>

<h2><strong>What does it mean?</strong></h2>

<p>The Cornell study not only sheds light on Earth's potential detectability by extraterrestrial beings but also refines the criteria for identifying habitable exoplanets.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Yet, amidst these advancements, the profound question lingers—whether life, if it exists beyond our celestial borders, would evolve in a manner analogous to the intricate biosphere on Earth.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
<em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Earth's potential to attract extraterrestrial beings may have been more pronounced during the time of dinosaurs than during present day and age, research by astrobiologists from Cornell University suggests.

Earth's potential to attract extraterrestrial beings may have been more pronounced during the time of dinosaurs than during present day and age, research by astrobiologists from Cornell University suggests. In their comprehensive analysis spanning 540 million years, encapsulating the Phanerozoic Eon, the researchers delved into the shifts of biomarkers crucial for detecting signs of life across vast cosmic distances. When aliens could have potentially visited Earth? Two pivotal biomarker pairs, oxygen and methane, along with ozone and methane, emerged as notably robust between 100 to 300 million years ago. This phenomenon was primarily attributed to an abundance of greenery that significantly elevated oxygen levels in Earth's atmosphere during those times. Also read | Mexican congress deems three-fingered mummies 'real,' but refrains from confirming alien origins This means that potential hypothetical extraterrestrial beings at the time with advanced telescopes might have identified our planet more readily during the Jurassic era than they could in the present times. Our world, 400 million years ago The research also considered factors influencing atmospheric oxygen levels, such as the extent of forest cover on land, the variety of marine species in oceans, and prevailing weather patterns. Over the past 400 million years, atmospheric oxygen is thought to have fluctuated within the 16-35 per cent range, often referred to as the 'fire window.' Also watch | UFOs and aliens: What's the truth? × Within this range, fires could ignite without difficulty, yet remain controllable—a delicate balance crucial for the development and sustenance of life. How are Earthians looking for alien life in our vast universe? Astronomers are engaged in a collective endeavor to identify analogous light fingerprints, or transmission spectra, that may indicate the presence of atmospheres capable of supporting life forms familiar to us. Armed with cutting-edge technology, such as the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST), scientists now possess the capability to study the atmospheres of exoplanets. But the evolutionary path of life on Earth serves as a reminder that while we can explore and analyse distant worlds, the distinctiveness of life's progression remains uncertain. What does it mean? The Cornell study not only sheds light on Earth's potential detectability by extraterrestrial beings but also refines the criteria for identifying habitable exoplanets. Yet, amidst these advancements, the profound question lingers—whether life, if it exists beyond our celestial borders, would evolve in a manner analogous to the intricate biosphere on Earth. (With inputs from agencies)

Earth was more charming for aliens when dinosaurs existed, suggests study

<p>When Saudi Arabia and Iran restored their diplomatic ties in Beijing in March 2023, the successful rapprochement had come after seven years of estrangement between the Sunni and Shia powerhouses of West Asia. WION had reported the development as a mark of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-saudi-arabia-restore-ties-as-china-brokered-deal-outfoxes-west-570766">shifting of sands in a region</a> where Washington has spent&nbsp;hundreds of billions of dollars in providing security for its Arab allies amid its animosity with Tehran's regime.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The sands have shifted to the point that Riyadh was successful, at least symbolically, to put together a show of Islamic unity in Riyadh this week during the joint summit of the Arab League and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But Washington's decades of geopolitical investments in the region ensured that&nbsp;adoption of proposals that carried concrete measures against Israel were not adopted. Instead, the four unnamed Arab states who reportedly prevented this,&nbsp;proposed more vague and non-committal clauses, <em>The New Arab</em>'s Arabic language sister site <em>Al-Araby Al-Jadeed</em> reported.</p>

<p>The extraordinary joint Arab-Islamic summit in Riyadh on Saturday called for an embargo on weapons and ammunition exports to Israel, urging the International Criminal Court to investigate Israel’s crimes against the Palestinian people.</p>

<p>A middle-ground between immediate ceasefire and ongoing state of war between Israel and Hamas&nbsp;was reached in principle;&nbsp;call for an embargo on weapons and ammunition exports to Israel, and a plea to the International Criminal Court to investigate Israel’s alleged crimes against the Palestinian people.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The final statement of the summit rejected describing the retaliatory war on Gaza as "self-defense" and condemned any attempts to displace Palestinians from the northern to the southern part of Gaza or outside the Gaza Strip, West Bank, and Jerusalem.</p>

<p>The statement also slammed&nbsp;double standards that the countries said undermine the credibility of countries placing Israel above international law.</p>

<p>That's all for The Capitals this weekend. See you next week.&nbsp;</p>


When Saudi Arabia and Iran restored their diplomatic ties in Beijing in March 2023, the successful rapprochement had come after seven years of estrangement between the Sunni and Shia powerhouses of West Asia.

When Saudi Arabia and Iran restored their diplomatic ties in Beijing in March 2023, the successful rapprochement had come after seven years of estrangement between the Sunni and Shia powerhouses of West Asia. WION had reported the development as a mark of shifting of sands in a region where Washington has spent hundreds of billions of dollars in providing security for its Arab allies amid its animosity with Tehran's regime. The sands have shifted to the point that Riyadh was successful, at least symbolically, to put together a show of Islamic unity in Riyadh this week during the joint summit of the Arab League and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation. But Washington's decades of geopolitical investments in the region ensured that adoption of proposals that carried concrete measures against Israel were not adopted. Instead, the four unnamed Arab states who reportedly prevented this, proposed more vague and non-committal clauses, The New Arab's Arabic language sister site Al-Araby Al-Jadeed reported. The extraordinary joint Arab-Islamic summit in Riyadh on Saturday called for an embargo on weapons and ammunition exports to Israel, urging the International Criminal Court to investigate Israel’s crimes against the Palestinian people. A middle-ground between immediate ceasefire and ongoing state of war between Israel and Hamas was reached in principle; call for an embargo on weapons and ammunition exports to Israel, and a plea to the International Criminal Court to investigate Israel’s alleged crimes against the Palestinian people. The final statement of the summit rejected describing the retaliatory war on Gaza as "self-defense" and condemned any attempts to displace Palestinians from the northern to the southern part of Gaza or outside the Gaza Strip, West Bank, and Jerusalem. The statement also slammed double standards that the countries said undermine the credibility of countries placing Israel above international law. That's all for The Capitals this weekend. See you next week.

The Capitals: Riyadh's show of Islamic unity for Palestine amid Israel-Hamas war

<p>In a striking visual representation of the ongoing wildfire crisis in Australia's Northern Territory, Earth observation scientist Robbi Bishop-Taylor from Geoscience Australia shared a timelapse animation of the crisis on X, formerly known as Twitter.</p>

<p>The animation illustrates the shocking extent of the fire-ravaged area that has been ablaze for the past two months.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The scale of the fires currently burning across northern Australia is pretty unfathomable.<br />
<br />
This animation visualises just the last two months of fire captured by <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DEAHotspots?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DEAHotspots</a> - for context, the map covers an area larger than France, Spain and Germany combined... <a href="https://t.co/YBkOQP5xCK">pic.twitter.com/YBkOQP5xCK</a></p>
— Dr Robbi Bishop-Taylor 🛰️🌎🌊 (@SatelliteSci) <a href="https://twitter.com/SatelliteSci/status/1720253056762482706?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 3, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Wildfire crisis in Australia</strong></h2>

<p>Authorities say&nbsp;that the current wildfire season is the most severe in decades.</p>

<p>So far it has engulfed a staggering 12.8 million hectares (31.6 million acres) of land in just a two-month period.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australia-out-of-control-fires-prompt-evacuations-as-country-swelters-through-scorching-heat-641513">Australia: ‘Out of control’ fires prompt evacuations as country swelters in ‘scorching’ heat</a></strong></p>

<p>As recently as the last week, the&nbsp;Queensland residents faced evacuation orders due to crisis posed by the raging wildfires.</p>

<h2><strong>Why wildfires continue to rage on?</strong></h2>

<p>The El Niño weather event&nbsp;triggers extreme phenomena such as wildfires.</p>

<p>Northern Australia has also experienced scorching temperatures, prompting severe heatwave warnings in certain areas.</p>

<p>The dry and warm conditions provide ideal circumstances for the ignition and rapid spread of fires.</p>

<p>The risk is further escalated by above-average rainfall earlier in the year, leading to increased vegetation that becomes potential fuel for the fires.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;</strong><strong>From floods to fires: Australia's growing climate crisis</strong></p>

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<p>As the soil dries out under intense heat, the vegetation becomes highly flammable, intensifying the ease with which fires can ignite and spread across.</p>

<p>This combination of factors has created a perilous situation in northern parts of Australia, leading to a surge in fires, some suspected to be deliberately lit. The environmental and communal impact in the region has been devastating.</p>

<h2><strong>Fire season in Northern Hemisphere</strong></h2>

<p>The crisis in Australia follows a catastrophic fire season in the Northern Hemisphere, marked by record-breaking temperatures fueled by human-induced climate change.</p>

<p>As heatwaves swept across Asia, Europe, and North America, experts predict that 2023 may become the hottest year on record.</p>

<p>In Europe, wildfires emitted a staggering 20 million tonnes of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere.</p>

<p>Italy faced an unprecedented heatwave while Greece went through a period of&nbsp;worst wildfire on record.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


In a striking visual representation of the ongoing wildfire crisis in Australia's Northern Territory, Earth observation scientist Robbi Bishop-Taylor from Geoscience Australia shared a timelapse animation of the crisis on X, formerly known as Twitter.

In a striking visual representation of the ongoing wildfire crisis in Australia's Northern Territory, Earth observation scientist Robbi Bishop-Taylor from Geoscience Australia shared a timelapse animation of the crisis on X, formerly known as Twitter. The animation illustrates the shocking extent of the fire-ravaged area that has been ablaze for the past two months. The scale of the fires currently burning across northern Australia is pretty unfathomable. This animation visualises just the last two months of fire captured by #DEAHotspots - for context, the map covers an area larger than France, Spain and Germany combined... pic.twitter.com/YBkOQP5xCK — Dr Robbi Bishop-Taylor 🛰️🌎🌊 (@SatelliteSci) November 3, 2023 × Wildfire crisis in Australia Authorities say that the current wildfire season is the most severe in decades. So far it has engulfed a staggering 12.8 million hectares (31.6 million acres) of land in just a two-month period. Also read | Australia: ‘Out of control’ fires prompt evacuations as country swelters in ‘scorching’ heat As recently as the last week, the Queensland residents faced evacuation orders due to crisis posed by the raging wildfires. Why wildfires continue to rage on? The El Niño weather event triggers extreme phenomena such as wildfires. Northern Australia has also experienced scorching temperatures, prompting severe heatwave warnings in certain areas. The dry and warm conditions provide ideal circumstances for the ignition and rapid spread of fires. The risk is further escalated by above-average rainfall earlier in the year, leading to increased vegetation that becomes potential fuel for the fires. Also watch | From floods to fires: Australia's growing climate crisis × As the soil dries out under intense heat, the vegetation becomes highly flammable, intensifying the ease with which fires can ignite and spread across. This combination of factors has created a perilous situation in northern parts of Australia, leading to a surge in fires, some suspected to be deliberately lit. The environmental and communal impact in the region has been devastating. Fire season in Northern Hemisphere The crisis in Australia follows a catastrophic fire season in the Northern Hemisphere, marked by record-breaking temperatures fueled by human-induced climate change. As heatwaves swept across Asia, Europe, and North America, experts predict that 2023 may become the hottest year on record. In Europe, wildfires emitted a staggering 20 million tonnes of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. Italy faced an unprecedented heatwave while Greece went through a period of worst wildfire on record. (With inputs from agencies)

Watch: Northern Australia seen burning in mapped animation amid raging wildfire crisis

<p>Canada's Prime Minister Justin Trudeau repeated his unfounded accusations of India's involvement in the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar on Canadian soil. Trudeau said that he has reached out to New Delhi "to get to the bottom of this matter" as well as Ottawa's western partners to investigate India's alleged role in Nijjar's killing.</p>

<p>Reacting to India's move to reduce the total strength of diplomats stationed in India,&nbsp; Trudeau also repeated the claim that India had violated the Vienna Convention, an assertion denounced by New Delhi in the recent past.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/motivated-and-absurd-india-slams-canadas-accusations-over-terrorist-hardeep-singh-nijjars-killing-637339">'Motivated and absurd': India slams Canada's accusations over terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar's killing</a></strong></p>

<p>India's foreign ministry maintains that the country is a democratic polity with a strong commitment to the rule of law.</p>

<p>"Such unsubstantiated allegations seek to shift the focus from Khalistani terrorists and extremists, who have been provided shelter in Canada and continue to threaten India’s sovereignty and territorial integrity," the Indian foreign ministry had said in September when Canada first made the claim related to India's alleged involvement in&nbsp;Nijjar's killing.</p>

<h2><strong>This is not a fight we want: Justin Trudeau</strong></h2>

<p>Over 40 Canadian diplomats were evacuated from India&nbsp;and relocated to other places, including Singapore and Kuala Lumpur.</p>

<p>"Think about it from our perspective. We have serious reasons to believe that agents of the government of India could have been involved in the killing of a Canadian citizen on Canadian soil. And India's response is to kick out a whole bunch of Canadian diplomats by violating their rights under the Vienna Convention. That is of concern to countries around the world."</p>

<p>But India's foreign ministry maintains that its move to repatriate Canadian diplomats is "consistent" with relevant sections of the Vienna Convention.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Gravitas Plus: Is the West reigniting the Khalistan movement?</strong></p>

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<p>"This is not a fight we want to be having right now. But we will unequivocally always stand up for the rule of law because that's who Canada is," Trudeau further said.</p>

<p>The India-Canada ties remain strained since September when Trudeau made an unprecedented claim that "agents of Indian government" were potentially involved in the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Canadian citizen. Trudeau's claim set off a chain of events with reciprocation of diplomatic expulsions, marking a unique low between India and Canada who have historically shared friendly ties.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Nijjar, a wanted terrorist in India and the chief of the banned Khalistan Tiger Force, was shot dead by two masked gunmen in Surrey in the Canadian province of British Colombia in the month of June.&nbsp;</p>


Canada's Prime Minister Justin Trudeau repeated his unfounded accusations of India's involvement in the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar on Canadian soil.

Canada's Prime Minister Justin Trudeau repeated his unfounded accusations of India's involvement in the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar on Canadian soil. Trudeau said that he has reached out to New Delhi "to get to the bottom of this matter" as well as Ottawa's western partners to investigate India's alleged role in Nijjar's killing. Reacting to India's move to reduce the total strength of diplomats stationed in India, Trudeau also repeated the claim that India had violated the Vienna Convention, an assertion denounced by New Delhi in the recent past. Also read | 'Motivated and absurd': India slams Canada's accusations over terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar's killing India's foreign ministry maintains that the country is a democratic polity with a strong commitment to the rule of law. "Such unsubstantiated allegations seek to shift the focus from Khalistani terrorists and extremists, who have been provided shelter in Canada and continue to threaten India’s sovereignty and territorial integrity," the Indian foreign ministry had said in September when Canada first made the claim related to India's alleged involvement in Nijjar's killing. This is not a fight we want: Justin Trudeau Over 40 Canadian diplomats were evacuated from India and relocated to other places, including Singapore and Kuala Lumpur. "Think about it from our perspective. We have serious reasons to believe that agents of the government of India could have been involved in the killing of a Canadian citizen on Canadian soil. And India's response is to kick out a whole bunch of Canadian diplomats by violating their rights under the Vienna Convention. That is of concern to countries around the world." But India's foreign ministry maintains that its move to repatriate Canadian diplomats is "consistent" with relevant sections of the Vienna Convention. Also watch | Gravitas Plus: Is the West reigniting the Khalistan movement? × "This is not a fight we want to be having right now. But we will unequivocally always stand up for the rule of law because that's who Canada is," Trudeau further said. The India-Canada ties remain strained since September when Trudeau made an unprecedented claim that "agents of Indian government" were potentially involved in the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Canadian citizen. Trudeau's claim set off a chain of events with reciprocation of diplomatic expulsions, marking a unique low between India and Canada who have historically shared friendly ties. Nijjar, a wanted terrorist in India and the chief of the banned Khalistan Tiger Force, was shot dead by two masked gunmen in Surrey in the Canadian province of British Colombia in the month of June.

'This is not a fight we want', says Trudeau after repeating Nijjar killing claims denounced by India

<p>India on Saturday (Nov 11) voted in the favour of a United Nations resolution that called out Israel's settlement activities in "the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem, and in the occupied Syrian Golan". The resolution was passed two days after its draft was approved on Thursday, November 9.</p>

<p>The UN draft resolution titled "Israeli settlements in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem, and the occupied Syrian Golan" was passed by overwhelming majority.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Only seven countries, including the United States and Canada, voted against the resolution. Other five countries that voted against the resolution were Hungary, Israel, Marshall Islands, Federated States of Micronesia and Nauru.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war: 100,000 Indians to work in Israel; govt to hire Indian workforce? | WION</strong></p>

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<p>A total of 18 countries abstained from voting, including Cote D'Ivore, Czechia, Democratic Republic of Congo, Ecuador, Georgia, Guatemala, Malawi, Panama, Papua New Guinea, Paraguay, Solomon Islands, South Sudan, Togo, Uruguay, and Vanuatu.</p>

<h2><strong>What does it mean?</strong></h2>

<p>India's vote reflects New Delhi's principled stance in relation to the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas after the latter attacked Israel on October 7 and killed about 1200 people.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-pm-modi-talks-with-iranian-president-ebrahim-raisi-discusses-israel-hamas-conflict-655813">Iran asks India to 'use all its capacities' to end Israel's attack on Gaza</a></strong></p>

<p>New Delhi advocates "the resumption of direct negotiations towards establishing a sovereign, independent and viable State of Palestine, living within secure and recognised borders, side by side at peace with Israel". While Prime Minister Narendra Modi has slammed Hamas for its brutal acts of terror committed in Israel on Oct 7, the Ministry of External Affairs has made it clear that while India stands against terrorist strikes, its stand on Israel-Palestine remained unchanged.</p>

<p>Last month, India abstained in the UN General Assembly from voting on a draft resolution submitted by Jordan, that called for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas conflict. The resolution did not make any mention of Hamas and its barbaric attack on Israel. Since then, the western discourse over Israel-Hamas war has evolved from humanitarian ceasefire to humanitarian pauses, the latter a wartime practice to stop fighting during designated hours to ensure the supplies of essentials to the civilians.</p>

<p>The resolution titled "Protection of civilians and upholding legal and humanitarian obligations" was overwhelmingly adopted with 120 nations voting in its favour, 14 against it and 45 abstaining.<br />
<br />
<em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


India on Saturday (Nov 11) voted in the favour of a United Nations resolution that called out Israel's settlement activities in "the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem, and in the occupied Syrian Golan".

India on Saturday (Nov 11) voted in the favour of a United Nations resolution that called out Israel's settlement activities in "the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem, and in the occupied Syrian Golan". The resolution was passed two days after its draft was approved on Thursday, November 9. The UN draft resolution titled "Israeli settlements in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem, and the occupied Syrian Golan" was passed by overwhelming majority. Only seven countries, including the United States and Canada, voted against the resolution. Other five countries that voted against the resolution were Hungary, Israel, Marshall Islands, Federated States of Micronesia and Nauru. Also watch | Israel-Hamas war: 100,000 Indians to work in Israel; govt to hire Indian workforce? | WION × A total of 18 countries abstained from voting, including Cote D'Ivore, Czechia, Democratic Republic of Congo, Ecuador, Georgia, Guatemala, Malawi, Panama, Papua New Guinea, Paraguay, Solomon Islands, South Sudan, Togo, Uruguay, and Vanuatu. What does it mean? India's vote reflects New Delhi's principled stance in relation to the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas after the latter attacked Israel on October 7 and killed about 1200 people. Also read | Iran asks India to 'use all its capacities' to end Israel's attack on Gaza New Delhi advocates "the resumption of direct negotiations towards establishing a sovereign, independent and viable State of Palestine, living within secure and recognised borders, side by side at peace with Israel". While Prime Minister Narendra Modi has slammed Hamas for its brutal acts of terror committed in Israel on Oct 7, the Ministry of External Affairs has made it clear that while India stands against terrorist strikes, its stand on Israel-Palestine remained unchanged. Last month, India abstained in the UN General Assembly from voting on a draft resolution submitted by Jordan, that called for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas conflict. The resolution did not make any mention of Hamas and its barbaric attack on Israel. Since then, the western discourse over Israel-Hamas war has evolved from humanitarian ceasefire to humanitarian pauses, the latter a wartime practice to stop fighting during designated hours to ensure the supplies of essentials to the civilians. The resolution titled "Protection of civilians and upholding legal and humanitarian obligations" was overwhelmingly adopted with 120 nations voting in its favour, 14 against it and 45 abstaining. (With inputs from agencies)

India votes in favour of UN resolution against Israeli settlements in Palestinian territories

Diwali: How Festival of Lights is Celebrated Outside India

Indonesia’s island of Bali is famous for its Diwali celebrations. The people of Indian descent here follow the same rituals as in India. 

Diwali, is a public holiday in the island country, and holds same significance among people of Indian descent. 

This multicultural island has a large number of Hindus who along with non-Hindus celebrate the joyous festival of Diwali. It is observed as a public holiday here. 



In Malaysia, Diwali is popularly called ‘Hari Diwali’ meaning ‘Green Diwali’ due to the ban on fireworks in the country.

Diwali is one of the prominent festivals in Sri Lanka. Though a home to Ravana, who is not as demonised here as he is elsewhere in the world, Lord Ram is worshipped all across Sri Lanka. 

In Nepal, Diwali is known as ‘Tihar’ and carries on for five days. In this festival, people not only worship gods but the animals too. 

People of Indian descent come together to celebrate the festival of lights, however, without crackers. 

Diwali marks the celebration of love and light not just in India but in many parts of the world.

<p>Turkish citizens are increasingly cancelling their Visa and Mastercards in a nationwide boycott against companies or nations they deem to be supporting&nbsp;Israel, country's Yeni Safak publication reported.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Banks are reportedly struggling with the surge in demand for Troy cards, Turkey's domestic payment system established by the Interbank Card Center in 2015. This shift is a protest against the West's support for Israel's purported 'right to defence' after it was attacked by Hamas on October 7 that killed about 1200 Israelis.</p>

<p>On social media, the hashtag campaign #TroyKartaGeçiyoruz (#WeGoToTroyKarta) has gained momentum, in a reference to the country's own payment system Troy.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-massacre-in-gaza-product-of-west-turkeys-erdogan-addresses-huge-pro-palestinian-rally-652379">Israel-Hamas war: Erdogan addresses huge pro-Palestine rally, blames West for massacre in Gaza</a></strong></p>

<p>Since targeting Visa and Mastercard, approximately 19 million new Troy cards have been issued, Yeni Safak report added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Troy, Turkey's sole domestic payment card, was launched officially in April 2016, providing financial services such as credit cards, debit cards, and prepaid cards.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Turkey: Erdogan defends Hamas and lashes out on Israel</strong></p>

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<p>Notably, Troy cards have been accepted in the US on the Discover Card network since 2017.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The development coincides with a related move when the Turkish parliament removed Coca-Cola and Nestle products from its campus restaurants, accusing them of supporting Israel.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What does it mean?</strong></h2>

<p>This multifaceted protest reflects a growing pro-Palestine sentiment among the Turkish citizens.</p>

<p>Besides, the Turkish President Recep&nbsp;Tayyip Erdogan said recently that Hamas was not a terrorist organisation but a liberation group fighting to protect Palestinian lands and people, in contrast to the fact that the militant-political organisation that rules blockaded Gaza Strip has been designated as a terrorist group by the US and collective West.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Once all of this that is happening is finished, we want to see Gaza as a peaceful region that is a part of an independent Palestinian state, in line with 1967 borders, with territorial integrity, and with East Jerusalem as its capital," Erdogan said earlier this month.</p>

<p>More than 10,000 Palestinians in Gaza have been killed in retaliatory attack launched by Israel on Oct 7 as per the claims of Hamas-run ministry.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Turkish citizens are increasingly cancelling their Visa and Mastercards in a nationwide boycott against companies or nations they deem to be supporting Israel, country's Yeni Safak publication reported.

Turkish citizens are increasingly cancelling their Visa and Mastercards in a nationwide boycott against companies or nations they deem to be supporting Israel, country's Yeni Safak publication reported. Banks are reportedly struggling with the surge in demand for Troy cards, Turkey's domestic payment system established by the Interbank Card Center in 2015. This shift is a protest against the West's support for Israel's purported 'right to defence' after it was attacked by Hamas on October 7 that killed about 1200 Israelis. On social media, the hashtag campaign #TroyKartaGeçiyoruz (#WeGoToTroyKarta) has gained momentum, in a reference to the country's own payment system Troy. Also read | Israel-Hamas war: Erdogan addresses huge pro-Palestine rally, blames West for massacre in Gaza Since targeting Visa and Mastercard, approximately 19 million new Troy cards have been issued, Yeni Safak report added. Troy, Turkey's sole domestic payment card, was launched officially in April 2016, providing financial services such as credit cards, debit cards, and prepaid cards. Also watch | Turkey: Erdogan defends Hamas and lashes out on Israel × Notably, Troy cards have been accepted in the US on the Discover Card network since 2017. The development coincides with a related move when the Turkish parliament removed Coca-Cola and Nestle products from its campus restaurants, accusing them of supporting Israel. What does it mean? This multifaceted protest reflects a growing pro-Palestine sentiment among the Turkish citizens. Besides, the Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said recently that Hamas was not a terrorist organisation but a liberation group fighting to protect Palestinian lands and people, in contrast to the fact that the militant-political organisation that rules blockaded Gaza Strip has been designated as a terrorist group by the US and collective West. "Once all of this that is happening is finished, we want to see Gaza as a peaceful region that is a part of an independent Palestinian state, in line with 1967 borders, with territorial integrity, and with East Jerusalem as its capital," Erdogan said earlier this month. More than 10,000 Palestinians in Gaza have been killed in retaliatory attack launched by Israel on Oct 7 as per the claims of Hamas-run ministry. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel-Hamas war: Visa, Mastercard's loss becomes Troy's gain in Turkey

<p>About 950 km south of Ayodhya, the birthplace of revered Hindu deity Lord Ram, in Maharashtra state's Yavatmal, a centuries-old shrine is dedicated to Ram's wife Sita. The temple, which celebrates Sita's single motherhood&nbsp;got a quiet makeover this Diwali ahead of Ayodhya's Ram temple's consecration in January.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In November 2022, the Supreme Court of India&nbsp;allowed the construction of a Hindu temple on the site where a mosque was built by an aide of Moghul emperor Babar in Ayodhya where an ancient temple marking Ram's birthplace had&nbsp;existed. The temple at Ram's birthplace is currently under construction and is scheduled to be consecrated in January 2024.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Why Yavatmal's Sita temple is unique?</strong></h2>

<p>The shrine at Yavatmal's Raveri is unique since it worships Ram's wife Sita's single motherhood.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to Valmiki Ramayana&nbsp;— the story of Lord Ram's life composed by Sage Valmiki&nbsp;— when Ram was coronated as Ayodhya's King after 14 years of exile, the people of Ayodhya cast doubts on his wife Sita's sanctity, since she was abducted by King Ravana and was forced to live in his kingdom of Lanka.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;India's Diwali economy explained</strong></p>

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<p>As a King true to his subjects who was staunch to follow <em>Raj Dharma&nbsp;</em>or the duty of the king, Ram is said to have given into Ayodhya residents' doubts — following which Sita ended up living outside Ayodhya.</p>

<p>In seclusion, Sita gave birth to her and Ram's&nbsp;children&nbsp;— Luv and Kush&nbsp;— and raised them all by herself.</p>

<p>The Raveri temple celebrates this exact single motherhood epitomised by Sita during period coinciding with India's Vedic times.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sita is worshipped without Ram and Laxman's omnipresence in this temple.</p>

<p>The temple was recently renovated and the original, weather-beaten idol was replaced with a newly carved stone replica on November 7, The Times of India reported.</p>

<p>"While attention is focussed on Ayodhya, here in Raveri, we have breathed new life into our temple dedicated to Sita. Our devotion transcends generations, and we are thrilled to have a new idol grace our temple," Wamanrao Chatap, a leader of the farmers' group Shetkari Sanghatana was quoted as saying by the Times of India.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The organisation's founder, Sharad Joshi, is credited to have brought the spotlight to the shrine in 2001.</p>

<p>"He saw this as symbolising the strength of mothers and made it his mission to reconstruct the temple as a monument to courage. Now, it's an inspiration to all single mothers, particularly widows in farming communities," Chatap said.<br />
<br />
<em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


About 950 km south of Ayodhya, the birthplace of revered Hindu deity Lord Ram, in Maharashtra state's Yavatmal, a centuries-old shrine is dedicated to Ram's wife Sita.

About 950 km south of Ayodhya, the birthplace of revered Hindu deity Lord Ram, in Maharashtra state's Yavatmal, a centuries-old shrine is dedicated to Ram's wife Sita. The temple, which celebrates Sita's single motherhood got a quiet makeover this Diwali ahead of Ayodhya's Ram temple's consecration in January. In November 2022, the Supreme Court of India allowed the construction of a Hindu temple on the site where a mosque was built by an aide of Moghul emperor Babar in Ayodhya where an ancient temple marking Ram's birthplace had existed. The temple at Ram's birthplace is currently under construction and is scheduled to be consecrated in January 2024. Why Yavatmal's Sita temple is unique? The shrine at Yavatmal's Raveri is unique since it worships Ram's wife Sita's single motherhood. According to Valmiki Ramayana — the story of Lord Ram's life composed by Sage Valmiki — when Ram was coronated as Ayodhya's King after 14 years of exile, the people of Ayodhya cast doubts on his wife Sita's sanctity, since she was abducted by King Ravana and was forced to live in his kingdom of Lanka. Also watch | India's Diwali economy explained × As a King true to his subjects who was staunch to follow Raj Dharma or the duty of the king, Ram is said to have given into Ayodhya residents' doubts — following which Sita ended up living outside Ayodhya. In seclusion, Sita gave birth to her and Ram's children — Luv and Kush — and raised them all by herself. The Raveri temple celebrates this exact single motherhood epitomised by Sita during period coinciding with India's Vedic times. Sita is worshipped without Ram and Laxman's omnipresence in this temple. The temple was recently renovated and the original, weather-beaten idol was replaced with a newly carved stone replica on November 7, The Times of India reported. "While attention is focussed on Ayodhya, here in Raveri, we have breathed new life into our temple dedicated to Sita. Our devotion transcends generations, and we are thrilled to have a new idol grace our temple," Wamanrao Chatap, a leader of the farmers' group Shetkari Sanghatana was quoted as saying by the Times of India. The organisation's founder, Sharad Joshi, is credited to have brought the spotlight to the shrine in 2001. "He saw this as symbolising the strength of mothers and made it his mission to reconstruct the temple as a monument to courage. Now, it's an inspiration to all single mothers, particularly widows in farming communities," Chatap said. (With inputs from agencies)

Sita without Ram: This ancient temple in India celebrates mother of Luv and Kush

<p>More number of Americans are unwilling to serve in the defence forces in the event of a major war, reflecting waning public confidence in the country's armed forces.</p>

<p>The revelation was made after a recent survey conducted by the research institute Echelon Insights said that a significant majority of American adults, approximately 72 per cent, would not be willing to volunteer for military service in the event of a major war.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Will U.S. run out of soldiers? Army Short of 10,000 Troops | Here's Why</strong></p>

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<p>The polling that included 1,029 likely voters during the period corresponding between October 23-26, revealed that only 21 per cent American youngsters were willing to serve in the Army while the remaining were uncertain.</p>

<h2><strong>What does it mean?</strong></h2>

<p>The trend coincides with a decline in public confidence in the armed forces, with all branches facing challenges in meeting recruitment targets in recent years.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In 2023, both the Army and Air Force fell short by about 10,000 recruits each, and the Navy lagged behind by 6,000. The collective active-duty personnel has seen a 39 per cent reduction since 1987, according to the Newsweek. This growing reluctance to pursue military careers reflects a broader societal shift and poses recruitment challenges for the various branches of the US armed forces.</p>

<p>The survey was conducted in the aftermath of an unprecedented attack by Hamas on Israel on October 7 that killed about 1200 Israelis. The survey, thereby, added a geopolitical context to the findings.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This also adds to the findings of a Gallup poll in June that found confidence in the military declining for a sixth consecutive year, to 60 per cent.</p>

<p>The findings can also be seen in larger context of the accusations of US defence forces going 'woke'.</p>

<p>In May, the US Navy came under fire for inviting Yeoman 2nd Class Joshua Kelley, a drag queen by the name Harpy Daniels, to become a digital ambassador to "reach a wide range of potential candidates."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Then, in July, the Army received backlash for publishing a profile of Major Rachel Jones, a transgender servicewoman.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But experts cited in the US media say that such culture war debates are unlikely to deter the military's target generation.</p>


More number of Americans are unwilling to serve in the defence forces in the event of a major war, reflecting waning public confidence in the country's armed forces.

More number of Americans are unwilling to serve in the defence forces in the event of a major war, reflecting waning public confidence in the country's armed forces. The revelation was made after a recent survey conducted by the research institute Echelon Insights said that a significant majority of American adults, approximately 72 per cent, would not be willing to volunteer for military service in the event of a major war. Also watch | Gravitas: Will U.S. run out of soldiers? Army Short of 10,000 Troops | Here's Why × The polling that included 1,029 likely voters during the period corresponding between October 23-26, revealed that only 21 per cent American youngsters were willing to serve in the Army while the remaining were uncertain. What does it mean? The trend coincides with a decline in public confidence in the armed forces, with all branches facing challenges in meeting recruitment targets in recent years. In 2023, both the Army and Air Force fell short by about 10,000 recruits each, and the Navy lagged behind by 6,000. The collective active-duty personnel has seen a 39 per cent reduction since 1987, according to the Newsweek. This growing reluctance to pursue military careers reflects a broader societal shift and poses recruitment challenges for the various branches of the US armed forces. The survey was conducted in the aftermath of an unprecedented attack by Hamas on Israel on October 7 that killed about 1200 Israelis. The survey, thereby, added a geopolitical context to the findings. This also adds to the findings of a Gallup poll in June that found confidence in the military declining for a sixth consecutive year, to 60 per cent. The findings can also be seen in larger context of the accusations of US defence forces going 'woke'. In May, the US Navy came under fire for inviting Yeoman 2nd Class Joshua Kelley, a drag queen by the name Harpy Daniels, to become a digital ambassador to "reach a wide range of potential candidates." Then, in July, the Army received backlash for publishing a profile of Major Rachel Jones, a transgender servicewoman. But experts cited in the US media say that such culture war debates are unlikely to deter the military's target generation.

Crisis of US patriots? Fewer Americans now want to serve in defence forces, survey finds

<p>Israel Defense Forces shared a video from inside Gaza to claim that Hamas used a school as its military base. Israeli forces said that they captured a base from Hamas after intense fighting, and found that one of the military sites was in fact, a school.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Israeli forces claimed that while inside the classrooms there was learning material for children but right outside it were hidden ammunition holds that contained missiles. They further added that the base was suspected to be used for training Hamas fighters.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Since the beginning of the war in Gaza after men owing allegiance to Hamas — designated a terrorist group by Israel and the collective West — attacked Israel on October 7, killing over 1200 Israelis, Israel has been accusing Hamas of establishing such military bases in schools, hospitals and residential areas.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-live-updates-fighting-around-gaza-hospitals-stokes-fresh-concerns-657450">Israel-Hamas war updates | Israel revises October 7 death toll from 1400 to 1200</a></strong></p>

<p>This, Israel Defense Forces say, is done so that the Israeli army would not target such areas for fear of civilian casualties.</p>

<h2><strong>IDF video claims startling look inside a Gaza classroom</strong></h2>

<p>In a video posted on X, formerly Twitter, Israel Defense Forces claimed the existence of 'Hamas Intelligence Headquarters' next to schools.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"This is a lathe and a rocket and mortar storage facility," a person in the IDF video has been translated as saying while showing the purported Hamas military site inside a school in the later part of the video.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Israel-Hamas War: Hamas tunnels being destroyed | Videos released by the Israeli Army</strong></p>

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<p>"Here you can see rocket launchers. Here are bags full of AK-47s, Hamas flags. And all of this is inside of a school," the person adds. "The weapons storage facility is right next to a classroom," it further adds in the video.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">While the world sees neighborhoods with<br />
schools,<br />
hospitals,<br />
scout groups,<br />
children’s playgrounds<br />
and mosques,<br />
Hamas sees an opportunity to exploit.<br />
<br />
1/2 <a href="https://t.co/smGAweDS7L">pic.twitter.com/smGAweDS7L</a></p>
— Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) <a href="https://twitter.com/IDF/status/1722853497106829535?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 10, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>According to Hamas-run Gaza health ministry, 11,078 Gaza residents have been killed in air and artillery strikes since Oct&nbsp;7. Israeli tanks have been advancing through northern Gaza for almost two weeks, which Israel says are targeting Hamas' infrastructure in the region.</p>

<p>The international calls for ceasefire, given the high civilian casualty toll, are being replaced by assertions for humanitarian pause, a periodic stopping of the fighting so that humanitarian aid from the donor countries and multilateral organisations could reach the distressed civilian population.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong><em>Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</em></strong></p>


Israel Defense Forces shared a video from inside Gaza to claim that Hamas used a school as its military base. Israeli forces said that they captured a base from Hamas after intense fighting, and found that one of the military sites was in fact, a school.

Israel Defense Forces shared a video from inside Gaza to claim that Hamas used a school as its military base. Israeli forces said that they captured a base from Hamas after intense fighting, and found that one of the military sites was in fact, a school. The Israeli forces claimed that while inside the classrooms there was learning material for children but right outside it were hidden ammunition holds that contained missiles. They further added that the base was suspected to be used for training Hamas fighters. Since the beginning of the war in Gaza after men owing allegiance to Hamas — designated a terrorist group by Israel and the collective West — attacked Israel on October 7, killing over 1200 Israelis, Israel has been accusing Hamas of establishing such military bases in schools, hospitals and residential areas. Also read | Israel-Hamas war updates | Israel revises October 7 death toll from 1400 to 1200 This, Israel Defense Forces say, is done so that the Israeli army would not target such areas for fear of civilian casualties. IDF video claims startling look inside a Gaza classroom In a video posted on X, formerly Twitter, Israel Defense Forces claimed the existence of 'Hamas Intelligence Headquarters' next to schools. "This is a lathe and a rocket and mortar storage facility," a person in the IDF video has been translated as saying while showing the purported Hamas military site inside a school in the later part of the video. Also watch | Israel-Hamas War: Hamas tunnels being destroyed | Videos released by the Israeli Army × "Here you can see rocket launchers. Here are bags full of AK-47s, Hamas flags. And all of this is inside of a school," the person adds. "The weapons storage facility is right next to a classroom," it further adds in the video. While the world sees neighborhoods with schools, hospitals, scout groups, children’s playgrounds and mosques, Hamas sees an opportunity to exploit. 1/2 pic.twitter.com/smGAweDS7L — Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) November 10, 2023 × According to Hamas-run Gaza health ministry, 11,078 Gaza residents have been killed in air and artillery strikes since Oct 7. Israeli tanks have been advancing through northern Gaza for almost two weeks, which Israel says are targeting Hamas' infrastructure in the region. The international calls for ceasefire, given the high civilian casualty toll, are being replaced by assertions for humanitarian pause, a periodic stopping of the fighting so that humanitarian aid from the donor countries and multilateral organisations could reach the distressed civilian population. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Video: Hamas used a school in Gaza as its military base, claims IDF

First Chikungunya Vaccine Approved In The US

Chikungunya, the mosquito-borne disease, has affected over 3.4 million people in 43 countries. There is currently no specific drug to treat Chikungunya.

Chikungunya is spread by the bites of infected female Aedes mosquitoes and causes fever, severe joint pain, muscle pain, headache, nausea, fatigue and rash.

The disease has been described as an "emerging global health threat" by the US FDA. Now in a massive breakthrough, the world's first Chikungunya vaccine has been approved.

The vaccine named Ixchiq has been approved for those aged 18 and above.


Who Can Be Given The Chikungunya Vaccine?


According to the US FDA, individuals at high risk of contracting the disease can be given the single-shot vaccine. It was developed by Europe's Valneva.

Watermelon seeds are a good source of calcium which is important for strong, healthy bones. It also helps in keeping muscles healthy and improves nerve transmission.

Watermelon seeds provide both monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acid which helps in keeping the heart healthy. Magnesium, which is also available in abundance in this seed, helps in maintaining good cardiac function and healthy blood pressure.

Roasted watermelon seeds can be a healthy snack for improving skin texture. It helps moisturise the skin, reduces acne breakouts and delays the onset of early signs of ageing.

US FDA has approved world's first Chikungunya vaccine

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