A judge in the United Kingdom sentenced radical Islamist preacher Anjem Choudary for life after he was found guilty of directing and encouraging support for a banned "terrorist organisation" Al-Muhajiroun (ALM).

The ALM&nbsp;was set up with an aim to establish an Islamic caliphate in Britain and was banned in 2010.

The 57-year-old preacher, who emerged as the defining face of Islamist radicalism in the post-Brexit UK, was convicted last week on terrorism charges.&nbsp;

"Organisations such as yours normalise violence in support of an ideological cause," Judge Mark Wall told Choudary at London's Woolwich Crown Court while referring to the&nbsp;Al-Muhajiroun (ALM).

Also watch |&nbsp;UK convicts Pakistan Islamic preacher Anjem Choudary who protested funeral of UK's soldiers

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"Their existence gives individuals who are members of them the courage to commit acts which otherwise they might not do. They drive wedges between people who otherwise could and would live together in peaceful coexistence."

Choudary has been sentenced to a minimum term of 28 years. He has already spent a little less than a year in prison, meaning until 2047, he won't be eligible for parole.

<h2>Who is Anjem Choudry?</h2>

Anjem Choudary was Britain's most high-profile Islamist preacher. He first took the spotlight in and beyond Britain for praising the terrorists responsible for the 9/11 attacks on the United States. Choudary even said that he&nbsp;wanted to convert the Buckingham Palace into a mosque.

Choudary was previously imprisoned in Britain in 2016 for building support for Islamic State. He was released in 2018 after he served half of his five-and-a-half-year sentence.

Prosecutor Tom Little said on Tuesday (July 30) that Choudary became "the caretaker emir" of al-Muhajiroun after fellow Islamist preacher Omar Bakri Mohammed was jailed in Lebanon in 2014.

Choudary's lawyer argued that al-Muhajiroun was "little more than a husk of an organisation" and that almost all terrorist acts linked to the group had already taken place.

But Wall said al-Muhajiroun was "a radical organisation intent on spreading sharia law to as much of the world as possible, using violent means where necessary".

Choudary stood trial alongside Canadian citizen Khaled Hussein, 29, who was arrested on the same day as Choudary in 2023 when he arrived on a flight at Heathrow Airport.

Hussein was also found guilty of holding membership of a banned organisation and sentenced to five years in prison.

(With inputs from agencies)

A judge in the United Kingdom sentenced radical Islamist preacher Anjem Choudary for life after he was found guilty of directing and encouraging support for a banned "terrorist organisation" Al-Muhajiroun (ALM).

A judge in the United Kingdom sentenced radical Islamist preacher Anjem Choudary for life after he was found guilty of directing and encouraging support for a banned "terrorist organisation" Al-Muhajiroun (ALM). The ALM was set up with an aim to establish an Islamic caliphate in Britain and was banned in 2010. The 57-year-old preacher, who emerged as the defining face of Islamist radicalism in the post-Brexit UK, was convicted last week on terrorism charges. "Organisations such as yours normalise violence in support of an ideological cause," Judge Mark Wall told Choudary at London's Woolwich Crown Court while referring to the Al-Muhajiroun (ALM). Also watch | UK convicts Pakistan Islamic preacher Anjem Choudary who protested funeral of UK's soldiers × "Their existence gives individuals who are members of them the courage to commit acts which otherwise they might not do. They drive wedges between people who otherwise could and would live together in peaceful coexistence." Choudary has been sentenced to a minimum term of 28 years. He has already spent a little less than a year in prison, meaning until 2047, he won't be eligible for parole. Who is Anjem Choudry? Anjem Choudary was Britain's most high-profile Islamist preacher. He first took the spotlight in and beyond Britain for praising the terrorists responsible for the 9/11 attacks on the United States. Choudary even said that he wanted to convert the Buckingham Palace into a mosque. Choudary was previously imprisoned in Britain in 2016 for building support for Islamic State. He was released in 2018 after he served half of his five-and-a-half-year sentence. Prosecutor Tom Little said on Tuesday (July 30) that Choudary became "the caretaker emir" of al-Muhajiroun after fellow Islamist preacher Omar Bakri Mohammed was jailed in Lebanon in 2014. Choudary's lawyer argued that al-Muhajiroun was "little more than a husk of an organisation" and that almost all terrorist acts linked to the group had already taken place. But Wall said al-Muhajiroun was "a radical organisation intent on spreading sharia law to as much of the world as possible, using violent means where necessary". Choudary stood trial alongside Canadian citizen Khaled Hussein, 29, who was arrested on the same day as Choudary in 2023 when he arrived on a flight at Heathrow Airport. Hussein was also found guilty of holding membership of a banned organisation and sentenced to five years in prison. (With inputs from agencies)

British radical Islamist preacher Anjem Choudary sentenced to life on terrorism charges

A third child died on Tuesday and five others remained critically injured after a knife attack on a Taylor Swift-themed dance event in a quiet seaside community in northern England, police said.

The nine-year-old girl died in hospital early Tuesday, Merseyside Police said, as the force confirmed that two victims who died in the "ferocious" stabbing spree Monday were also girls, aged six and seven.

Eight other children suffered stab wounds during the attack in Southport, near Liverpool, which has shocked the UK and beyond. Two adults were also in a critical condition after being injured.

A 17-year-old male suspect from a nearby village arrested shortly after the incident remained in custody, police added, as they warned against speculating about his identity or details of the investigation.

"This incident is not currently being treated as terror-related and we are not looking for anyone else in connection with it," Merseyside Police said in its latest update.&nbsp;

Hours earlier, US pop star Swift took to social media to say she was "completely in shock" over "the loss of life and innocence, and the horrendous trauma inflicted on everyone".&nbsp;

"These were just little kids at a dance class. I am at a complete loss for how to ever convey my sympathies to these families," she added on Instagram.

Visiting the scene of the attack to lay flowers and meet local officials, Interior Minister Yvette Cooper said police were pursuing "every single avenue" as part of "a serious criminal investigation".

"This was a horrific attack," she told reporters.

<h2>'Deeply shocked'</h2>

Residents of Southport, a small seaside town popular with summer visitors, were still coming to terms with the attack.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/man-arrested-after-stabbing-incident-in-uks-southport-several-casualties-reported-745283">Teen arrested after stabbing incident in UK's Southport</a>

"The town is in shock and in mourning", local MP Patrick Hurley told AFP, calling it the "most horrific atrocity that Southport has experienced in living memory".

It is a "very small town, a close-knit community and everybody will be intimately affected by this", he added.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer has called the events "just truly awful" and said "the whole country is deeply shocked".&nbsp;

He is likely to visit the community later Tuesday. An evening vigil will also be held.

"I just cannot believe that it happened so close to home," Leanne Hassan told reporters Tuesday.

Hassan had rushed to collect her daughter from a nearby nursery which was locked down after the attack.&nbsp;

Her daughter was safe, "but unfortunately that's not the reality for a lot of parents waking up today," she added.

Police have revealed the children at the event were aged between six and 11, and the two adults injured were trying to protect them.

Tributes have been paid on social media to the bravery of dance and yoga teacher Leanne Lucas, who was among the victims.

Local business owner Colin Parry, one of those to call police, recounted to UK media members of his staff seeing "about 10 kids go running past him, all bleeding".&nbsp;

"One of them collapsed on the floor outside the neighbour next door," he told the Press Association (PA) news agency.

Bare Varathan, who owns a local shop, told PA he saw "seven to 10 kids" who were "injured, bleeding".

<h2>'Utterly horrific'</h2>

The teen male arrested on suspicion of murder and attempted murder is from neighbouring village Banks but was born in the Welsh capital Cardiff, according to police.&nbsp;

His identity and a possible motive for the attack have not been revealed.

"A name has been shared on social media in connection with the suspect," police said Tuesday.

"This name is incorrect and we would urge people not to speculate on details of the incident while the investigation is ongoing."

Witnesses told UK media the attacker was seen arriving at the scene in a taxi late Monday morning, and that he entered the venue wearing a mask.

Armed officers detained the suspect nearby and seized a knife.

Targeted attacks on children are extremely rare in the UK.

Monday's incident evoked memories of a school massacre in the Scottish town of Dunblane in 1996, which claimed the lives of 16 young pupils and their teacher in Britain's worst mass shooting.

King Charles III has offered his "most heartfelt condolences, prayers and deepest sympathies" following the "utterly horrific" incident.

Meanwhile, Prince William and his wife Catherine said "as parents, we cannot begin to imagine what the families, friends, and loved ones of those killed and injured in Southport today are going through".

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.

A third child died on Tuesday and five others remained critically injured after a knife attack on a Taylor Swift-themed dance event in a quiet seaside community in northern England, police said.

A third child died on Tuesday and five others remained critically injured after a knife attack on a Taylor Swift-themed dance event in a quiet seaside community in northern England, police said. The nine-year-old girl died in hospital early Tuesday, Merseyside Police said, as the force confirmed that two victims who died in the "ferocious" stabbing spree Monday were also girls, aged six and seven. Eight other children suffered stab wounds during the attack in Southport, near Liverpool, which has shocked the UK and beyond. Two adults were also in a critical condition after being injured. A 17-year-old male suspect from a nearby village arrested shortly after the incident remained in custody, police added, as they warned against speculating about his identity or details of the investigation. "This incident is not currently being treated as terror-related and we are not looking for anyone else in connection with it," Merseyside Police said in its latest update. Hours earlier, US pop star Swift took to social media to say she was "completely in shock" over "the loss of life and innocence, and the horrendous trauma inflicted on everyone". "These were just little kids at a dance class. I am at a complete loss for how to ever convey my sympathies to these families," she added on Instagram. Visiting the scene of the attack to lay flowers and meet local officials, Interior Minister Yvette Cooper said police were pursuing "every single avenue" as part of "a serious criminal investigation". "This was a horrific attack," she told reporters. 'Deeply shocked' Residents of Southport, a small seaside town popular with summer visitors, were still coming to terms with the attack. Also read | Teen arrested after stabbing incident in UK's Southport "The town is in shock and in mourning", local MP Patrick Hurley told AFP, calling it the "most horrific atrocity that Southport has experienced in living memory". It is a "very small town, a close-knit community and everybody will be intimately affected by this", he added. Prime Minister Keir Starmer has called the events "just truly awful" and said "the whole country is deeply shocked". He is likely to visit the community later Tuesday. An evening vigil will also be held. "I just cannot believe that it happened so close to home," Leanne Hassan told reporters Tuesday. Hassan had rushed to collect her daughter from a nearby nursery which was locked down after the attack. Her daughter was safe, "but unfortunately that's not the reality for a lot of parents waking up today," she added. Police have revealed the children at the event were aged between six and 11, and the two adults injured were trying to protect them. Tributes have been paid on social media to the bravery of dance and yoga teacher Leanne Lucas, who was among the victims. Local business owner Colin Parry, one of those to call police, recounted to UK media members of his staff seeing "about 10 kids go running past him, all bleeding". "One of them collapsed on the floor outside the neighbour next door," he told the Press Association (PA) news agency. Bare Varathan, who owns a local shop, told PA he saw "seven to 10 kids" who were "injured, bleeding". 'Utterly horrific' The teen male arrested on suspicion of murder and attempted murder is from neighbouring village Banks but was born in the Welsh capital Cardiff, according to police. His identity and a possible motive for the attack have not been revealed. "A name has been shared on social media in connection with the suspect," police said Tuesday. "This name is incorrect and we would urge people not to speculate on details of the incident while the investigation is ongoing." Witnesses told UK media the attacker was seen arriving at the scene in a taxi late Monday morning, and that he entered the venue wearing a mask. Armed officers detained the suspect nearby and seized a knife. Targeted attacks on children are extremely rare in the UK. Monday's incident evoked memories of a school massacre in the Scottish town of Dunblane in 1996, which claimed the lives of 16 young pupils and their teacher in Britain's worst mass shooting. King Charles III has offered his "most heartfelt condolences, prayers and deepest sympathies" following the "utterly horrific" incident. Meanwhile, Prince William and his wife Catherine said "as parents, we cannot begin to imagine what the families, friends, and loved ones of those killed and injured in Southport today are going through". Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Third child dies following mass stabbing in UK's Southport

Mumbai-born acclaimed writer Salman Rushdie has endorsed US Vice President and the Democratic presidential frontrunner Kamala Harris after describing her as the only person capable of stopping former president Donald Trump from becoming the president again.&nbsp;

Rushdie praised Harris's Indian and Black heritage. The serving US vice president's mother hails from southern India's Chennai while her paternal side is from Jamaica.&nbsp;

Also watch |&nbsp;Kamala Harris on devastation in Gaza: I will not be silent

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So far, Harris has won the endorsement of three of the five Indian-American representatives.

"It's a critical moment. I'm a boy from Bombay and it's great to see an Indian woman running for the White House. And my wife is African-American, so we like the fact that a Black and Indian woman is running for the White House," Rushdie was quoted as saying by news agency Press Trust of India.

Rushdie extended his support to her at a virtual event, 'South Asian Men for Harris'. The event was attended by scores of persons from the Indian-American community.

Also read&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-kamala-harris-ancestral-village-longs-for-her-presidential-poll-win-visit-743843">Kamala Harris’ ancestral village in India hopes for her win in presidential poll, subsequent visit as US prez</a>&nbsp;

Kamala Harris has her approval ratings soaring to the point of matching Trump's popularity in and beyond the swing states, following which the Democrats are hoping to reign supreme in the White House for the next five years as well.&nbsp;

The Obamas as well as President Joe Biden and the first lady Jill Biden, have rallied around Kamala Harris.

Salman Rushdie, however, clarified that it was about Kamala Harris the leader, and not just about the shared ethnicity.

"We would not be gathering in this way let's say for Usha Vance or Nikki Haley," Rushdie said, while referring to the Indian-American wife of Republican Vice-Presidential nominee JD Vance and the Indian-American former South Carolina governor.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/salman-rushdies-knife-cuts-open-an-empowering-defence-of-free-speech-717946">Salman Rushdie's 'Knife' cuts open an empowering defence of free speech</a>

The author of the 'Midnight's Children' said that something "very extraordinary, transformative has happened in American politics" in just under one week.

"The conversation has entirely changed with the arrival of Kamala Harris's candidacy and it's changed most joyfully, a way of optimism and positive, forward-thinking," he added.

Kamala Harris officially declared her presidential candidacy after Biden withdrew from the race for a second term on July 20. She is expected to be officially declared as the presidential candidate by the Democrats in August.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Mumbai-born acclaimed writer Salman Rushdie has endorsed US Vice President and the Democratic presidential frontrunner Kamala Harris after describing her as the only person capable of stopping former president Donald Trump from becoming the president again.

Mumbai-born acclaimed writer Salman Rushdie has endorsed US Vice President and the Democratic presidential frontrunner Kamala Harris after describing her as the only person capable of stopping former president Donald Trump from becoming the president again. Rushdie praised Harris's Indian and Black heritage. The serving US vice president's mother hails from southern India's Chennai while her paternal side is from Jamaica. Also watch | Kamala Harris on devastation in Gaza: I will not be silent × So far, Harris has won the endorsement of three of the five Indian-American representatives. "It's a critical moment. I'm a boy from Bombay and it's great to see an Indian woman running for the White House. And my wife is African-American, so we like the fact that a Black and Indian woman is running for the White House," Rushdie was quoted as saying by news agency Press Trust of India. Rushdie extended his support to her at a virtual event, 'South Asian Men for Harris'. The event was attended by scores of persons from the Indian-American community. Also read | Kamala Harris’ ancestral village in India hopes for her win in presidential poll, subsequent visit as US prez Kamala Harris has her approval ratings soaring to the point of matching Trump's popularity in and beyond the swing states, following which the Democrats are hoping to reign supreme in the White House for the next five years as well. The Obamas as well as President Joe Biden and the first lady Jill Biden, have rallied around Kamala Harris. Salman Rushdie, however, clarified that it was about Kamala Harris the leader, and not just about the shared ethnicity. "We would not be gathering in this way let's say for Usha Vance or Nikki Haley," Rushdie said, while referring to the Indian-American wife of Republican Vice-Presidential nominee JD Vance and the Indian-American former South Carolina governor. Also read | Salman Rushdie's 'Knife' cuts open an empowering defence of free speech The author of the 'Midnight's Children' said that something "very extraordinary, transformative has happened in American politics" in just under one week. "The conversation has entirely changed with the arrival of Kamala Harris's candidacy and it's changed most joyfully, a way of optimism and positive, forward-thinking," he added. Kamala Harris officially declared her presidential candidacy after Biden withdrew from the race for a second term on July 20. She is expected to be officially declared as the presidential candidate by the Democrats in August. (With inputs from agencies)

'Bombay boy' Salman Rushdie endorses Kamala Harris for presidency

British police on Monday (July 29) arrested a 17-year-old after a "major incident" in Southport, northwest England, about 80 km from Manchester where tensions are rife after a police person was seen kicking a Muslim man at the airport last week.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/british-police-person-seen-kicking-muslim-man-at-manchester-airport-suspended-744174">British police officer seen kicking Muslim man at Manchester airport suspended</a>

Several casualties are being reported in Monday's stabbing incident. A knife has been seized by the police and there appears to be no wider threat to the public.&nbsp;

Later during the day, it emerged that at least eight people, including two children, were&nbsp;stabbed in the incident.

North West ambulance service said it had so far treated eight patients with stab injuries, who were&nbsp;taken to three hospitals in the are, including the&nbsp;Alder Hey children’s hospital, Aintree university hospital and Southport and Formby hospital.

Alder Hey children’s hospital urged the parents not to bring their children to the emergency department unless it was urgent, British media reports said.

The home secretary, Yvette Cooper,&nbsp;said she is "deeply concerned" over the stabbing incident.

At the time of filing this report, the motivation behind the attack&nbsp;"remains unclear", according to police.

Merseyside police chief constable Serena Kennedy told a press conference: "The investigation is at its early stages and the motivation for the incident remains unclear."

"However, Counter-Terrorism Police North-West have offered their support to Merseyside police as the full circumstances of what has happened are being established."

"At this moment in time, the investigation is not being treated as terrorist-related."

(With inputs from agencies)

British police on Monday (July 29) arrested a 17-year-old after a "major incident" in Southport, northwest England, about 80 km from Manchester where tensions are rife after a police person was seen kicking a Muslim man at the airport last week.

British police on Monday (July 29) arrested a 17-year-old after a "major incident" in Southport, northwest England, about 80 km from Manchester where tensions are rife after a police person was seen kicking a Muslim man at the airport last week. Also read | British police officer seen kicking Muslim man at Manchester airport suspended Several casualties are being reported in Monday's stabbing incident. A knife has been seized by the police and there appears to be no wider threat to the public. Later during the day, it emerged that at least eight people, including two children, were stabbed in the incident. North West ambulance service said it had so far treated eight patients with stab injuries, who were taken to three hospitals in the are, including the Alder Hey children’s hospital, Aintree university hospital and Southport and Formby hospital. Alder Hey children’s hospital urged the parents not to bring their children to the emergency department unless it was urgent, British media reports said. The home secretary, Yvette Cooper, said she is "deeply concerned" over the stabbing incident. At the time of filing this report, the motivation behind the attack "remains unclear", according to police. Merseyside police chief constable Serena Kennedy told a press conference: "The investigation is at its early stages and the motivation for the incident remains unclear." "However, Counter-Terrorism Police North-West have offered their support to Merseyside police as the full circumstances of what has happened are being established." "At this moment in time, the investigation is not being treated as terrorist-related." (With inputs from agencies)

Teen arrested after stabbing incident in UK's Southport; two children killed

Estimated number of Indians (including workers): 3.55 million


Estimated number of Indians (including workers): 2.64 million


Estimated number of Indians (including workers): 1 million

Estimated number of Indians (including workers): 835,000

Estimated number of Indians (including workers): 673,000

How Many Indians Live in West Asia?

War in Ukraine Is On Since February 2022


Over two years into the war in Ukraine, Russians have managed to gain the upper hand. But an end to the war appears afar.

India has not outrightly condemned the Russian offensive. New Delhi shares ‘special and privileged strategic partnership’ with Moscow. India has repeatedly called for peace in Ukraine through dialogue and diplomacy.

While visiting Moscow earlier this month for the annual India-Russia summit, PM Modi repeated call for peace through dialogue and diplomacy.


PM Modi is set to visit Kyiv next month in August 2024. All eyes with be on New Delhi for its role in ending the war in Ukraine.


Can Delhi Succeed In Ending Ukraine War?


The latest attempts at dialogue and diplomacy, notably the Swiss Peace Summit in June 2024, did not even include Russia across the table of dialogue. New Delhi, as Russia’s special and privileged partner, has all the credentials to bring Russia and Ukraine across the table of negotiations to end the war.


Reacting to a question on PM Modi's Ukraine visit, External Affairs Minister Dr S. Jaishankar said: "I can reasonably expect that thr will be more contacts between us and Ukraine, between us and Russia. We make our position known at the right time, at the right channel."

PM Modi is all set to visit Ukraine in August, over a month after visiting Russia. Can he end Russia-Ukraine war?

Will India Help End Russia-Ukraine War?


Britain’s finance minister Rachel Reeves announced on Monday (July 29) that the country’s public finances are facing a £22 billion ($28.29bn) shortfall inherited from the Conservative government.

"We have inherited a projected overspend of £22 billion ($28 billion) this year that was covered up by the party opposite," said Reeves, who took office following Labour’s landslide victory over the Conservatives on July 4.

Also watch |&nbsp;UK's financial landscape amidst rate cuts

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Reeves, who addressed lawmakers with a detailed audit, warned that the unaddressed overspend would lead to a 25 per cent increase in the budget deficit this year. Her first budget will be presented on October 30.

"To reduce the pressure on public finances, I have already taken steps to cut spending by £5.5 billion ($7.07bn) this year and over £8.0 billion ($10.29bn) next year," she announced.

Reeves described the overspend as "not sustainable" and slammed the previous Conservative administration under Rishi Sunak for avoiding difficult decisions.

The finance chief also noted that the Labour government, led by Prime Minister Keir Starmer, will release its first spending and taxation statement on October 30.&nbsp;

She added that this budget aims to "fix the foundations of our economy" and will launch a multi-year spending review to set departmental budgets for the next three years.

The Conservative opposition rejected Labour’s claims and accused the new government of using the fiscal assessment to justify upcoming tax hikes. Conservative finance spokesperson Jeremy Hunt slammed Reeves for allegedly preparing the ground for tax increases she did not disclose during the campaign.

"The audit is widely viewed as a precursor to potential infrastructure spending cuts and some tax increases, despite Labour’s campaign promise not to raise the main rates levied on workers," said Hunt.

Media reports before&nbsp;Monday’s statement, including those from The Sunday Times, pointed out that Reeves’ team had identified a public finance shortfall of around £20 billion.

The UK deficit, the gap between government revenue from taxes and its expenditures, was approximately £120 billion ($154.54bn) for the fiscal year ending in March.

In response, shadow chancellor Jeremy Hunt accused Reeves of an “utterly bogus attempt to hoodwink the public” over public sector pay rises. 
 
“In her first big moment, she breaks that trust with an utterly bogus attempt to hoodwink the public about the choices she has,” Hunt said. 
 
“Over 50 times in the election, they told us they had no plans to raise taxes. Now in a U-turn that will forever shame this Labour government, she is laying the ground to break her word, and when she does, her first Budget will become the biggest betrayal in history by a new chancellor, and working families will never forgive her.” 
&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Britain’s finance minister Rachel Reeves announced on Monday (July 29) that the country’s public finances are facing a £22 billion ($28.29bn) shortfall inherited from the Conservative government.

Britain’s finance minister Rachel Reeves announced on Monday (July 29) that the country’s public finances are facing a £22 billion ($28.29bn) shortfall inherited from the Conservative government. "We have inherited a projected overspend of £22 billion ($28 billion) this year that was covered up by the party opposite," said Reeves, who took office following Labour’s landslide victory over the Conservatives on July 4. Also watch | UK's financial landscape amidst rate cuts × Reeves, who addressed lawmakers with a detailed audit, warned that the unaddressed overspend would lead to a 25 per cent increase in the budget deficit this year. Her first budget will be presented on October 30. "To reduce the pressure on public finances, I have already taken steps to cut spending by £5.5 billion ($7.07bn) this year and over £8.0 billion ($10.29bn) next year," she announced. Reeves described the overspend as "not sustainable" and slammed the previous Conservative administration under Rishi Sunak for avoiding difficult decisions. The finance chief also noted that the Labour government, led by Prime Minister Keir Starmer, will release its first spending and taxation statement on October 30. She added that this budget aims to "fix the foundations of our economy" and will launch a multi-year spending review to set departmental budgets for the next three years. The Conservative opposition rejected Labour’s claims and accused the new government of using the fiscal assessment to justify upcoming tax hikes. Conservative finance spokesperson Jeremy Hunt slammed Reeves for allegedly preparing the ground for tax increases she did not disclose during the campaign. "The audit is widely viewed as a precursor to potential infrastructure spending cuts and some tax increases, despite Labour’s campaign promise not to raise the main rates levied on workers," said Hunt. Media reports before Monday’s statement, including those from The Sunday Times, pointed out that Reeves’ team had identified a public finance shortfall of around £20 billion. The UK deficit, the gap between government revenue from taxes and its expenditures, was approximately £120 billion ($154.54bn) for the fiscal year ending in March. In response, shadow chancellor Jeremy Hunt accused Reeves of an “utterly bogus attempt to hoodwink the public” over public sector pay rises. “In her first big moment, she breaks that trust with an utterly bogus attempt to hoodwink the public about the choices she has,” Hunt said. “Over 50 times in the election, they told us they had no plans to raise taxes. Now in a U-turn that will forever shame this Labour government, she is laying the ground to break her word, and when she does, her first Budget will become the biggest betrayal in history by a new chancellor, and working families will never forgive her.” (With inputs from agencies)

UK Labour government accused of laying groundwork for tax hike

India's External Affairs Minister Dr S. Jaishankar said that the Quadrilateral Security Alliance (Quad), widely dubbed as a geopolitical challenge to China's maritime strategy in the Indo-Pacific, is no talk shop and is poised to grow. Meanwhile, a&nbsp;stabbing incident in the UK has kept the country's northwest on alert. Besides, in the Paris Olympics, India's Men's Field Hockey team proceeded with a 1-1 stalemate against Argentina.&nbsp;

Click here to read more:

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/quad-is-here-to-grow-indian-foreign-minister-jaishankar-at-tokyo-meet-745112">Quad is here to grow: EAM Dr S Jaishankar at Tokyo meet</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/07/29/446201-untitled-design-1.png?imwidth=400" />

Emphasising the growing importance of Quad (Quadrilateral Security Dialogue), India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar has said that the grouping is "here to stay, here to do and here to grow".&nbsp;Quad is a grouping of four countries, India, the US, Japan and Australia and the foreign ministers of these countries are meeting in the Japanese capital Tokyo today.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/man-arrested-after-stabbing-incident-in-uks-southport-several-casualties-reported-745283">Man arrested after stabbing incident in UK's Southport; several casualties reported</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/06/21/361259-uk-police.png?imwidth=400" />

British police on Monday (July 29) arrested a&nbsp;man after a "major incident" in Southport, northwest England, about 80 km from Manchester where tensions are rife after a police person was seen kicking a Muslim man at the airport last week.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-war-cabinet-approves-reprisal-for-golan-heights-attack-745238">Israel war cabinet approves reprisal for Golan Heights attack</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/05/30/434886-wion-banners-prisha-72.jpg?imwidth=400" />

Israeli war cabinet on Monday (July 29) gave Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defence Minister Yoav Gallant their approval to determine the "manner and timing" of a response to a rocket strike in the Golan Heights that killed 12 people, mostly children and teenagers.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-africas-former-president-jacob-zuma-expelled-from-anc-745281">South Africa's former president Jacob Zuma expelled from his ANC party</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/08/11/372642-jacob-zuma-ap.jpg?imwidth=400" />

South Africa's former president Jacob Zuma has been expelled from the African National Congress (ANC), the party's secretary-general confirmed on Monday (Jul 28). Zuma, who once led the party, had campaigned for rival uMkhonto we Sizwe (MK) party in the May general elections, leading to the ouster.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/high-court-reserves-judgment-on-arvind-kejriwals-bail-plea-cbi-calls-him-mastermind-of-excise-scam-745305">High Court reserves judgment on Arvind Kejriwal's bail plea; CBI calls him 'mastermind' of excise scam</a>

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Delhi High Court (HC) on Monday (Jul 29) reserved its judgment on the bail plea filed by Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal in the liquor excise policy scam.&nbsp;The Aam&nbsp;Aadmi Party (AAP) leader, currently in judicial custody, had directly approached the HC, seeking bail without going to the trial court.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-nicolas-maduro-venezuelas-bus-driver-turned-president-who-won-yet-another-term-745234">Who is Nicolas Maduro, Venezuela's bus driver-turned-president, who won yet another term?</a>

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When Nicolas Maduro Moras took over charge at Venezuela after the untimely death of revolutionary socialist leader Hugo Chavez in 2013, not many expected him to have such a long stint at the helm. On Sunday (July 28), Maduro, the 61-year-old former bus driver declared himself the victor the contentious presidential election of the South American nation. This will be his third consecutive term, which lasts for another six years.

US Elections 2024: Kamala Harris' campaign raises $200 million in a week

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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-armys-ssg-commandos-behind-jammu-kupwara-terror-attacks-former-top-police-official-745226">Pakistan Army’s SSG commandos behind Jammu, Kupwara terror attacks: Former top police official</a>

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With the rise in terror attacks in Jammu and Kashmir recently, the former Director General of the Police of Jammu and Kashmir, S P Vaid has made a revelation and claimed that over 600 SSG (Special Service Group) commandos from the Pakistan Army have been earmarked while some of them have already infiltrated into Jammu and Kashmir and are carrying out terror attacks.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/olympics/news-paris-olympics-harmanpreets-thrilling-last-minute-goal-saves-the-day-for-india-vs-argentina-in-hockey-745309">Paris Olympics: Harmanpreet's thrilling last-minute goal saves the day for India vs Argentina in hockey</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/07/29/446326-mixcollage-29-jul-2024-07-00-pm-1273.jpg?imwidth=400" />

On Monday (July 29), India managed a 1-1 stalemate versus Argentina in their second group-stage clash in the ongoing Paris Olympics 2024 edition. Fresh from a 3-2 win over New Zealand, Harmanpreet Singh-led Men in Blue had a tough contest versus Argentina but managed to prevent a loss courtesy of a last-minute thrilling goal from skipper Harmanpreet in an important Pool B match at the Games. This became only the second instance of a draw between the two heavyweights, with the first occurrence dating back to 2004.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-house-of-the-dragon-season-2-episode-7-review-rhaenyra-now-has-three-more-dragons-for-the-coming-war-745248">House of the Dragon Season 2 Episode 7 Review: Rhaenyra now has three more dragons for the coming war</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/07/29/446288-horizons-2024-07-29t163037784.jpg?imwidth=400" />House of the Dragon Season 2 Episode 7 Review:&nbsp;The Greens are in for a major mood spoiler as the Blacks gain momentum, dragons and dragonriders in this episode. With Rhaenyra in full mood to change the tides and make the Iron Throne her own, she started seeking out dragonseed (any person who has Targaryen ancestral) and could claim a dragon courtesy their bloodline. While it backfired the last time, in episode 7, Rhaenyra strategises harder and brings together all Targaryen bastards.

India's External Affairs Minister Dr S. Jaishankar said that the Quadrilateral Security Alliance (Quad), widely dubbed as a geopolitical challenge to China's maritime strategy in the Indo-Pacific, is no talk shop and is poised to grow.

India's External Affairs Minister Dr S. Jaishankar said that the Quadrilateral Security Alliance (Quad), widely dubbed as a geopolitical challenge to China's maritime strategy in the Indo-Pacific, is no talk shop and is poised to grow. Meanwhile, a stabbing incident in the UK has kept the country's northwest on alert. Besides, in the Paris Olympics, India's Men's Field Hockey team proceeded with a 1-1 stalemate against Argentina. Click here to read more: Quad is here to grow: EAM Dr S Jaishankar at Tokyo meet Emphasising the growing importance of Quad (Quadrilateral Security Dialogue), India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar has said that the grouping is "here to stay, here to do and here to grow". Quad is a grouping of four countries, India, the US, Japan and Australia and the foreign ministers of these countries are meeting in the Japanese capital Tokyo today. Man arrested after stabbing incident in UK's Southport; several casualties reported British police on Monday (July 29) arrested a man after a "major incident" in Southport, northwest England, about 80 km from Manchester where tensions are rife after a police person was seen kicking a Muslim man at the airport last week. Israel war cabinet approves reprisal for Golan Heights attack Israeli war cabinet on Monday (July 29) gave Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defence Minister Yoav Gallant their approval to determine the "manner and timing" of a response to a rocket strike in the Golan Heights that killed 12 people, mostly children and teenagers. South Africa's former president Jacob Zuma expelled from his ANC party South Africa's former president Jacob Zuma has been expelled from the African National Congress (ANC), the party's secretary-general confirmed on Monday (Jul 28). Zuma, who once led the party, had campaigned for rival uMkhonto we Sizwe (MK) party in the May general elections, leading to the ouster. High Court reserves judgment on Arvind Kejriwal's bail plea; CBI calls him 'mastermind' of excise scam Delhi High Court (HC) on Monday (Jul 29) reserved its judgment on the bail plea filed by Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal in the liquor excise policy scam. The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader, currently in judicial custody, had directly approached the HC, seeking bail without going to the trial court. Who is Nicolas Maduro, Venezuela's bus driver-turned-president, who won yet another term? When Nicolas Maduro Moras took over charge at Venezuela after the untimely death of revolutionary socialist leader Hugo Chavez in 2013, not many expected him to have such a long stint at the helm. On Sunday (July 28), Maduro, the 61-year-old former bus driver declared himself the victor the contentious presidential election of the South American nation. This will be his third consecutive term, which lasts for another six years. US Elections 2024: Kamala Harris' campaign raises $200 million in a week × Pakistan Army’s SSG commandos behind Jammu, Kupwara terror attacks: Former top police official With the rise in terror attacks in Jammu and Kashmir recently, the former Director General of the Police of Jammu and Kashmir, S P Vaid has made a revelation and claimed that over 600 SSG (Special Service Group) commandos from the Pakistan Army have been earmarked while some of them have already infiltrated into Jammu and Kashmir and are carrying out terror attacks. Paris Olympics: Harmanpreet's thrilling last-minute goal saves the day for India vs Argentina in hockey On Monday (July 29), India managed a 1-1 stalemate versus Argentina in their second group-stage clash in the ongoing Paris Olympics 2024 edition. Fresh from a 3-2 win over New Zealand, Harmanpreet Singh-led Men in Blue had a tough contest versus Argentina but managed to prevent a loss courtesy of a last-minute thrilling goal from skipper Harmanpreet in an important Pool B match at the Games. This became only the second instance of a draw between the two heavyweights, with the first occurrence dating back to 2004. House of the Dragon Season 2 Episode 7 Review: Rhaenyra now has three more dragons for the coming war House of the Dragon Season 2 Episode 7 Review: The Greens are in for a major mood spoiler as the Blacks gain momentum, dragons and dragonriders in this episode. With Rhaenyra in full mood to change the tides and make the Iron Throne her own, she started seeking out dragonseed (any person who has Targaryen ancestral) and could claim a dragon courtesy their bloodline. While it backfired the last time, in episode 7, Rhaenyra strategises harder and brings together all Targaryen bastards.

Top 10 world news: Jaishankar confident of Quad resilience; stabbing incident in Southport; and more

A 50-year-old woman with a copy of her United States passport was found chained to a tree in a forest in Maharashtra's Sindhudurg district on Saturday (July 27), about 1,750 km south of New Delhi.&nbsp;

The incident has raised serious concerns about domestic violence and mental health.

The woman, identified as Lalita Kayi Kumar S, who resides in southern India's Tamil Nadu, was found by a shepherd in the remote village of Sonurli. The shepherd heard her cries on Saturday evening and immediately alerted the local authorities. When police arrived at the scene, they found her one leg chained to a tree.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/womans-body-found-stuffed-in-almirah-in-new-delhi-allegedly-killed-by-live-in-partner-707869">Woman's body found stuffed in almirah in New Delhi, allegedly killed by live-in partner</a>

Preliminary investigations suggest that Lalita's husband may have chained her in the forest following a domestic dispute. The local police provided first aid and transported her to a primary healthcare centre in Sawantwadi taluka. Given her condition, she was referred to a more advanced medical facility in Sindhudurg's Oros for further treatment.

Medical professionals at the hospital noted that Lalita appeared to be suffering from psychiatric issues.&nbsp;

Unable to speak coherently, she communicated by writing about her health problems on paper. A video from the hospital shows Lalita detailing her ordeal, claiming she had been without food for 40 days and that her husband had abandoned her in the forest after an argument.

Also watch |&nbsp;Indian woman from Hyderabad found starving on Chicago streets

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Maharashtra Police are currently investigating the incident, though no First Information Report (FIR) has been filed at the time of filing this report.&nbsp;

"The woman is not in a position to give her statement. She is very weak, having not eaten for several days and endured heavy rains in the area. We are still determining how long she was tied to the tree. According to initial reports, she left her husband after a quarrel," a police official was quoted as saying by India Today.

(With inputs from agencies)

A 50-year-old woman with a copy of her United States passport was found chained to a tree in a forest in Maharashtra's Sindhudurg district on Saturday (July 27), about 1,750 km south of New Delhi.

A 50-year-old woman with a copy of her United States passport was found chained to a tree in a forest in Maharashtra's Sindhudurg district on Saturday (July 27), about 1,750 km south of New Delhi. The incident has raised serious concerns about domestic violence and mental health. The woman, identified as Lalita Kayi Kumar S, who resides in southern India's Tamil Nadu, was found by a shepherd in the remote village of Sonurli. The shepherd heard her cries on Saturday evening and immediately alerted the local authorities. When police arrived at the scene, they found her one leg chained to a tree. Also read | Woman's body found stuffed in almirah in New Delhi, allegedly killed by live-in partner Preliminary investigations suggest that Lalita's husband may have chained her in the forest following a domestic dispute. The local police provided first aid and transported her to a primary healthcare centre in Sawantwadi taluka. Given her condition, she was referred to a more advanced medical facility in Sindhudurg's Oros for further treatment. Medical professionals at the hospital noted that Lalita appeared to be suffering from psychiatric issues. Unable to speak coherently, she communicated by writing about her health problems on paper. A video from the hospital shows Lalita detailing her ordeal, claiming she had been without food for 40 days and that her husband had abandoned her in the forest after an argument. Also watch | Indian woman from Hyderabad found starving on Chicago streets × Maharashtra Police are currently investigating the incident, though no First Information Report (FIR) has been filed at the time of filing this report. "The woman is not in a position to give her statement. She is very weak, having not eaten for several days and endured heavy rains in the area. We are still determining how long she was tied to the tree. According to initial reports, she left her husband after a quarrel," a police official was quoted as saying by India Today. (With inputs from agencies)

Tamil Nadu woman with US passport found chained in Maharashtra forest

Rahul Gandhi, the Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha, on Monday (July 29) took references from the ancient text Mahabharata to deliver a heavy-handed political attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government. While discussing the Union Budget 2024, the Congress leader cited Mahabharata's 'chakravyuha' — a military formation that resembles a labyrinth of defensive walls and is depicted in the Hindu epic Mahabharata &nbsp;— to state that the Lotus (the symbol of PM Modi's ruling Bharatiya Janata Party) also resembles the ancient military formation.&nbsp;

The Member of Parliament from Rae Bareli drew Chakravyuha's lotus analogy to target the government, saying it has created an "atmosphere of fear" in the country.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/battle-of-the-bastions-raebarelis-tryst-with-nehru-gandhi-family-since-1952-722837">Battle of the Bastions: Rae Bareli's tryst with Nehru-Gandhi family since 1952</a>

"When I researched about the chakravyuha, I got to know that it is also known as 'padmavyuha' or 'lotus'-vyuha (lotus formation).

"In 21st century, India is trapped in a new chakravyuha represented by lotus symbol that PM Modi wears on his chest," Rahul said in Lok Sabha.

Citing Mahabharata's chakravyuha that killed young warrior Abhimanyu on the battlefield, Rahul explained that there were six people at the centre of the trap -- Dronacharya, Karna, Kripacharya, Kritavarma, Ashwathama, and Shakuni.

"Similarly, there are six people at the centre of chakravuya today -- PM Modi, Amit Shah, Mohan Bhagwat, Ajit Doval, Ambani and Adani."

Rahul Gandhi's comment led to an uproar by the MPs of ruling National Democratic Alliance as well as an intervention from Speaker Om Birla. To which Rahul said, "If you want, I will remove the names of NSA Doval, Ambani and Adani from this list."

"In BJP, only one leader is allowed to dream to be the Prime Minister. If today, defence minister wants to be the PM, there's a big problem, big fear."

"Why are my friends in BJP are terrified, the ministers are terrified, the farmers are terrified, the workers, youngsters, why are they all terrified?" asked Rahul.

Also watch |&nbsp;India: Rahul Gandhi slams Modi government's education system

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In response to his question, Rahul said when he thought about the reason behind the state of affairs in the country, he came up with the chakravyuha analogy.

"The 'chakravyuha that has captured India has three forces behind it. 1) The idea of monopoly capital - that 2 people should be allowed to own the entire Indian wealth. So, one element of the chakravyuha is coming from the concentration of financial power. 2) The institutions, the agencies, CBI, ED, IT of this nation, and 3) Political executive. These three together, are at the heart of chakravyuha and they have devastated this country," Rahul said.

"They (NDA government) think that today's people are Abhimanyu, but today's people are Arjuna. They will break this chakravyuha," he said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Rahul Gandhi, the Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha, on Monday (July 29) took references from the ancient text Mahabharata to deliver a heavy-handed political attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government.

Rahul Gandhi, the Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha, on Monday (July 29) took references from the ancient text Mahabharata to deliver a heavy-handed political attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government. While discussing the Union Budget 2024, the Congress leader cited Mahabharata's 'chakravyuha' — a military formation that resembles a labyrinth of defensive walls and is depicted in the Hindu epic Mahabharata — to state that the Lotus (the symbol of PM Modi's ruling Bharatiya Janata Party) also resembles the ancient military formation. The Member of Parliament from Rae Bareli drew Chakravyuha's lotus analogy to target the government, saying it has created an "atmosphere of fear" in the country. Also read | Battle of the Bastions: Rae Bareli's tryst with Nehru-Gandhi family since 1952 "When I researched about the chakravyuha, I got to know that it is also known as 'padmavyuha' or 'lotus'-vyuha (lotus formation). "In 21st century, India is trapped in a new chakravyuha represented by lotus symbol that PM Modi wears on his chest," Rahul said in Lok Sabha. Citing Mahabharata's chakravyuha that killed young warrior Abhimanyu on the battlefield, Rahul explained that there were six people at the centre of the trap -- Dronacharya, Karna, Kripacharya, Kritavarma, Ashwathama, and Shakuni. "Similarly, there are six people at the centre of chakravuya today -- PM Modi, Amit Shah, Mohan Bhagwat, Ajit Doval, Ambani and Adani." Rahul Gandhi's comment led to an uproar by the MPs of ruling National Democratic Alliance as well as an intervention from Speaker Om Birla. To which Rahul said, "If you want, I will remove the names of NSA Doval, Ambani and Adani from this list." "In BJP, only one leader is allowed to dream to be the Prime Minister. If today, defence minister wants to be the PM, there's a big problem, big fear." "Why are my friends in BJP are terrified, the ministers are terrified, the farmers are terrified, the workers, youngsters, why are they all terrified?" asked Rahul. Also watch | India: Rahul Gandhi slams Modi government's education system × In response to his question, Rahul said when he thought about the reason behind the state of affairs in the country, he came up with the chakravyuha analogy. "The 'chakravyuha that has captured India has three forces behind it. 1) The idea of monopoly capital - that 2 people should be allowed to own the entire Indian wealth. So, one element of the chakravyuha is coming from the concentration of financial power. 2) The institutions, the agencies, CBI, ED, IT of this nation, and 3) Political executive. These three together, are at the heart of chakravyuha and they have devastated this country," Rahul said. "They (NDA government) think that today's people are Abhimanyu, but today's people are Arjuna. They will break this chakravyuha," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

Rahul Gandhi brings Mahabharata's Shakuni and ‘chakravyuh’ to attack Modi government

US President Joe Biden announced plans Monday for urgent reforms to the conservative-dominated Supreme Court, in a bold but long-shot move as he seeks to make a mark in his last six months in power.

The 81-year-old Democrat is calling for a constitutional amendment to reverse the Supreme Court's recent ruling backing Donald Trump's claims of presidential immunity, according to the White House.

The Democrat is also calling for term limits for Supreme Court justices, who currently serve for life, following shock rulings such as the repeal of the nationwide right to abortion.

Biden, who will further unveil the plans in a speech in Austin, Texas later Monday, will also seek an enforceable ethics code after a string of scandals.

Also watch |&nbsp;US Presidential race: President Biden may announce plans on Supreme Court reform

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He had confirmed he would seek the reforms during an Oval Office address last week outlining his priorities after deciding to drop out of the 2024 election, though the plans have almost no hope of getting through a deeply divided Congress.

"This nation was founded on a simple yet profound principle: No one is above the law. Not the president of the United States. Not a justice on the Supreme Court of the United States. No one," Biden said in an opinion piece published Monday.

"What is happening now is not normal, and it undermines the public's confidence in the court's decisions, including those impacting personal freedoms. We now stand in a breach."

Though their chances are slim, the proposed reforms reflect Biden's growing frustration with a court packed with Trump-appointed judges, and come as opinion polls show a growing loss of public confidence in the institution.

The White House said that both Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris, now the presumptive Democratic nominee for November's election, "look forward to working with Congress" on the plans.

Biden had previously resisted calls to overhaul or reform the court of nine lifetime-appointed justices.

But the White House said Biden would now seek 18-year term limits on Supreme Court justices, with new justices being appointed every two years.

<h2>- 'Close to zero' -</h2>

This would "reduce the chance that any single presidency imposes undue influence for generations to come," it said in a fact sheet.

He would also seek a "binding, enforceable" ethics code similar to those that apply to federal judges.

The top court has a 6-3 conservative majority, with three judges who were appointed while Trump was president, and has dealt Biden several blows in recent years.

The court stunned the world in 2022 when it overturned the 1973 Roe v Wade ruling that had underpinned the federal right to abortion. At least 20 states have now brought in full or partial abortion bans.

This year the court significantly rolled back the power of federal agencies, while also partially ruling in early July in favor of Republican nominee Trump's immunity claims.

Trump is now using that ruling to challenge his recent criminal conviction in a porn star-hush money case as well as a series of other prosecutions.

Meanwhile, the Supreme Court has been rocked by ethics scandals involving arch-conservative justices.

Justice Clarence Thomas recently admitted that two luxury vacations he took in 2019 were paid for by a billionaire Republican political donor.

Thomas, the longest-service justice on the court, has also ignored calls to recuse himself from cases related to the 2020 election, after his wife took part in the drive to keep Trump in power despite his electoral loss.

And Justice Samuel Alito has rejected calls to recuse himself from some Trump-related cases after flags linked to the former president's false election fraud claims were discovered to have been flown outside his home and vacation property.

Legal expert Steven Schwinn warned, however, that Biden had a "close to zero" chance of getting the plan through.

But Biden was probably trying to "raise public consciousness" and "introduce the Supreme Court as an election issue," Schwinn, a law professor at the University of Illinois, Chicago, told AFP.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience. 
&nbsp;

US President Joe Biden announced plans Monday for urgent reforms to the conservative-dominated Supreme Court, in a bold but long-shot move as he seeks to make a mark in his last six months in power.

US President Joe Biden announced plans Monday for urgent reforms to the conservative-dominated Supreme Court, in a bold but long-shot move as he seeks to make a mark in his last six months in power. The 81-year-old Democrat is calling for a constitutional amendment to reverse the Supreme Court's recent ruling backing Donald Trump's claims of presidential immunity, according to the White House. The Democrat is also calling for term limits for Supreme Court justices, who currently serve for life, following shock rulings such as the repeal of the nationwide right to abortion. Biden, who will further unveil the plans in a speech in Austin, Texas later Monday, will also seek an enforceable ethics code after a string of scandals. Also watch | US Presidential race: President Biden may announce plans on Supreme Court reform × He had confirmed he would seek the reforms during an Oval Office address last week outlining his priorities after deciding to drop out of the 2024 election, though the plans have almost no hope of getting through a deeply divided Congress. "This nation was founded on a simple yet profound principle: No one is above the law. Not the president of the United States. Not a justice on the Supreme Court of the United States. No one," Biden said in an opinion piece published Monday. "What is happening now is not normal, and it undermines the public's confidence in the court's decisions, including those impacting personal freedoms. We now stand in a breach." Though their chances are slim, the proposed reforms reflect Biden's growing frustration with a court packed with Trump-appointed judges, and come as opinion polls show a growing loss of public confidence in the institution. The White House said that both Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris, now the presumptive Democratic nominee for November's election, "look forward to working with Congress" on the plans. Biden had previously resisted calls to overhaul or reform the court of nine lifetime-appointed justices. But the White House said Biden would now seek 18-year term limits on Supreme Court justices, with new justices being appointed every two years. - 'Close to zero' - This would "reduce the chance that any single presidency imposes undue influence for generations to come," it said in a fact sheet. He would also seek a "binding, enforceable" ethics code similar to those that apply to federal judges. The top court has a 6-3 conservative majority, with three judges who were appointed while Trump was president, and has dealt Biden several blows in recent years. The court stunned the world in 2022 when it overturned the 1973 Roe v Wade ruling that had underpinned the federal right to abortion. At least 20 states have now brought in full or partial abortion bans. This year the court significantly rolled back the power of federal agencies, while also partially ruling in early July in favor of Republican nominee Trump's immunity claims. Trump is now using that ruling to challenge his recent criminal conviction in a porn star-hush money case as well as a series of other prosecutions. Meanwhile, the Supreme Court has been rocked by ethics scandals involving arch-conservative justices. Justice Clarence Thomas recently admitted that two luxury vacations he took in 2019 were paid for by a billionaire Republican political donor. Thomas, the longest-service justice on the court, has also ignored calls to recuse himself from cases related to the 2020 election, after his wife took part in the drive to keep Trump in power despite his electoral loss. And Justice Samuel Alito has rejected calls to recuse himself from some Trump-related cases after flags linked to the former president's false election fraud claims were discovered to have been flown outside his home and vacation property. Legal expert Steven Schwinn warned, however, that Biden had a "close to zero" chance of getting the plan through. But Biden was probably trying to "raise public consciousness" and "introduce the Supreme Court as an election issue," Schwinn, a law professor at the University of Illinois, Chicago, told AFP. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Biden unveils Supreme Court reform plans ahead of presidential elections

Israeli war cabinet on Monday (July 29) gave Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defence Minister Yoav Gallant their approval to determine the "manner and timing" of a response to a rocket strike in the Golan Heights that killed 12 people, mostly children and teenagers. The attack by the Lebanese terror group Hezbollah by both Israel and the United States has heightened tensions in West Asia.<img alt="Disputed territory of Golan Heights | WION" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f1f1ee05-f5ed-458f-b15c-1afe32ce714e" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/IsraelWar.png" />

Disputed territory of Golan Heights | WION

After Hezbollah's strike in the Golan Heights, the Israeli jets targeted locations in southern Lebanon on Sunday (July 28), with additional shelling reported just after midnight on Monday (July 29). Netanyahu, who cut short his US trip to return to Israel, convened the security cabinet to formulate a response.&nbsp;

Also see |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-hezbollah-tensions-all-about-golan-heights-key-area-at-forefront-of-hezbollah-idf-fires-745076">Israel-Hezbollah tensions | All About Golan Heights: Key area at forefront of Hezbollah-IDF fires</a>

The attack occurred on a soccer field near a bomb shelter against a backdrop of 10 months of nearly daily rocket attacks on northern Israel and retaliatory strikes by the Israeli forces in southern Lebanon.

After Hezbollah's Golan Heights strike, Netanyahu and Gallant convened a high-level security cabinet meeting Sunday night to discuss Israel’s course of action. During the four-hour meeting, the cabinet granted Netanyahu and Gallant the authority to decide on the scale and timing of Israel’s response.

<h2>Netanyahu's war cabinet approves reprisal</h2>

Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich and National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir, both known for advocating more severe retaliatory measures, abstained from the vote. Reports in the Israeli media indicate that the ministers were allowed ample time to voice their opinions during the meeting, following complaints about the brief approval process for a previous strike on Yemen.

The ministers also touched on ongoing hostage negotiations with Hamas, which could reportedly be influenced by Israel's response to the Golan Heights attack. Another meeting on the hostage situation is planned.

<h2>Hezbollah's shifting stance on the Golan Heights attack</h2>

Hezbollah initially claimed responsibility for launching a Falaq rocket at an IDF base near Majdal Shams but later denied involvement following reports of civilian casualties. However, Israeli authorities insist the rocket was an Iranian-made missile fired from southern Lebanon by Hezbollah.

Also watch |&nbsp;Golan Heights strike: What would be Netanyahu's next move?

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The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) presented evidence linking shrapnel from the soccer field to an Iranian-made Falaq-1 rocket used exclusively by Hezbollah in Lebanon. The IDF detailed the rocket’s flight path, showing it was launched from the Chebaa area in southern Lebanon.

(With inputs from agencies)

Israeli war cabinet on Monday (July 29) gave Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defence Minister Yoav Gallant their approval to determine the "manner and timing" of a response to a rocket strike in the Golan Heights that killed 12 people, mostly children and teenagers.

Israeli war cabinet on Monday (July 29) gave Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defence Minister Yoav Gallant their approval to determine the "manner and timing" of a response to a rocket strike in the Golan Heights that killed 12 people, mostly children and teenagers. The attack by the Lebanese terror group Hezbollah by both Israel and the United States has heightened tensions in West Asia. Disputed territory of Golan Heights | WION After Hezbollah's strike in the Golan Heights, the Israeli jets targeted locations in southern Lebanon on Sunday (July 28), with additional shelling reported just after midnight on Monday (July 29). Netanyahu, who cut short his US trip to return to Israel, convened the security cabinet to formulate a response. Also see | Israel-Hezbollah tensions | All About Golan Heights: Key area at forefront of Hezbollah-IDF fires The attack occurred on a soccer field near a bomb shelter against a backdrop of 10 months of nearly daily rocket attacks on northern Israel and retaliatory strikes by the Israeli forces in southern Lebanon. After Hezbollah's Golan Heights strike, Netanyahu and Gallant convened a high-level security cabinet meeting Sunday night to discuss Israel’s course of action. During the four-hour meeting, the cabinet granted Netanyahu and Gallant the authority to decide on the scale and timing of Israel’s response. Netanyahu's war cabinet approves reprisal Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich and National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir, both known for advocating more severe retaliatory measures, abstained from the vote. Reports in the Israeli media indicate that the ministers were allowed ample time to voice their opinions during the meeting, following complaints about the brief approval process for a previous strike on Yemen. The ministers also touched on ongoing hostage negotiations with Hamas, which could reportedly be influenced by Israel's response to the Golan Heights attack. Another meeting on the hostage situation is planned. Hezbollah's shifting stance on the Golan Heights attack Hezbollah initially claimed responsibility for launching a Falaq rocket at an IDF base near Majdal Shams but later denied involvement following reports of civilian casualties. However, Israeli authorities insist the rocket was an Iranian-made missile fired from southern Lebanon by Hezbollah. Also watch | Golan Heights strike: What would be Netanyahu's next move? × The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) presented evidence linking shrapnel from the soccer field to an Iranian-made Falaq-1 rocket used exclusively by Hezbollah in Lebanon. The IDF detailed the rocket’s flight path, showing it was launched from the Chebaa area in southern Lebanon. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel war cabinet approves reprisal for Golan Heights attack

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