<p>Iran's reformist candidate Masoud Pezeshkian on Saturday (July 6) won a runoff presidential election against ultraconservative Saeed Jalili, state media reported.</p>

<p>Officials have so far counted more than 30 million votes, out of which Pezeshkian garnered over 17 million and Jalili more than 13 million, according to results released by the interior ministry.</p>

<p>Iran has a president and a parliament (Majlis). But unlike modern-day democracies, in Iran, one Supreme Leader exerts both ideological and political control of the entire elected power structure.</p>

<p>In his first remarks after being declared winner of the runoff vote,&nbsp;president-elect Masoud Pezeshkian said on Saturday (July 6) he would "extend the hand of friendship to everyone".</p>

<p>"We will extend the hand of friendship to everyone; we are all people of this country; we should use everyone for the progress of the country," Pezeshkian said on state television.</p>

<p>Pezeshkian will replace late ultraconservative president Ebrahim Raisi who died in a May helicopter crash.</p>

<p>"These people participated with love, they came to help, and I thank all these dear people," Pezeshkian added.</p>

<p>In the lead-up to the elections, Iran's main reformist coalition threw its weight behind Pezeshkian. Former presidents Mohammad Khatami and the moderate Hassan Rouhani had declared support for his bid.</p>

<p>Pezeshkian takes over the presidency amid heightened regional tensions over the Gaza war, a dispute with the West over Iran's nuclear programme and domestic discontent over the state of Iran's sanctions-hit economy.</p>

<p><em>More information will be added soon.</em></p>


Iran's reformist candidate Masoud Pezeshkian on Saturday (July 6) won a runoff presidential election against ultraconservative Saeed Jalili, state media reported.

Iran's reformist candidate Masoud Pezeshkian on Saturday (July 6) won a runoff presidential election against ultraconservative Saeed Jalili, state media reported. Officials have so far counted more than 30 million votes, out of which Pezeshkian garnered over 17 million and Jalili more than 13 million, according to results released by the interior ministry. Iran has a president and a parliament (Majlis). But unlike modern-day democracies, in Iran, one Supreme Leader exerts both ideological and political control of the entire elected power structure. In his first remarks after being declared winner of the runoff vote, president-elect Masoud Pezeshkian said on Saturday (July 6) he would "extend the hand of friendship to everyone". "We will extend the hand of friendship to everyone; we are all people of this country; we should use everyone for the progress of the country," Pezeshkian said on state television. Pezeshkian will replace late ultraconservative president Ebrahim Raisi who died in a May helicopter crash. "These people participated with love, they came to help, and I thank all these dear people," Pezeshkian added. In the lead-up to the elections, Iran's main reformist coalition threw its weight behind Pezeshkian. Former presidents Mohammad Khatami and the moderate Hassan Rouhani had declared support for his bid. Pezeshkian takes over the presidency amid heightened regional tensions over the Gaza war, a dispute with the West over Iran's nuclear programme and domestic discontent over the state of Iran's sanctions-hit economy. More information will be added soon.

Iran delivers reformist verdict as cardiac surgeon Pezeshkian wins hearts in presidential elections

<p>Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) chairperson Bilawal Bhutto Zardari described Pakistan's general elections held in February as 'not transparent'. However, the third generation scion of the Sindh-based political party rejected the widely accepted view that the country's national elections were rigged.</p>

<p>While addressing a press conference in Balochistan province's Quetta, the PPP chairperson claimed that rigging was done in every single election against his party. He added that to end the "cycle of rigging’ in elections, politicians need to reach a consensus".</p>

<p>"The politicians need to agree that the match should be played fairly and the result should also be accepted," Bilawal added.</p>

<p>He said that the PPP is playing a leading role in election reforms but a number of times, a party or a politician attempts to hinder the process.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/the-capitals-angels-prevail-in-islamabad-but-after-historic-blow-to-pakistan-army-689286">The Capitals: 'Angels' prevail in Islamabad but after historic blow to Pakistan Army</a></strong></p>

<p>Bilawal cited the examples of election rigging claims being heard in election tribunals. He said that Singh government has done 'significant' work in the health sector, vowing to do the same in Balochistan.</p>

<p>He added that his party will provide relief to the people of Balochistan and ensure that they have access to quality healthcare and education.</p>

<p>"The PPP has done a lot of work in the health sector in Sindh as a state-of-the-art hospital is established in Gambat for liver transplants. &nbsp;The hospital in Naseerabad, Balochhistan will be on par with the one in Gambat," Bilawal added.</p>

<p>The PPP chairperson said that the National Accountability Bureau’s (NAB) abolition is in the party’s manifesto.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Pakistan Govt bans employees from siting late in offices to enjoy air-conditioning</strong></p>

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<p>Meanwhile, addressing the budget session of the National Assembly, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari claimed NAB used to carry out political engineering and revenge and defame politicians. He, however, did not name at whose behest NAB does these purported acts of political engineering. But notably, senior NAB officials are former or serving army officials.</p>

<p>The PPP leader said he regrets the lack of consensus on NAB’s abolition.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) chairperson Bilawal Bhutto Zardari described Pakistan's general elections held in February as 'not transparent'. However, the third generation scion of the Sindh-based political party rejected the widely accepted view that the country's national elections were rigged.

Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) chairperson Bilawal Bhutto Zardari described Pakistan's general elections held in February as 'not transparent'. However, the third generation scion of the Sindh-based political party rejected the widely accepted view that the country's national elections were rigged. While addressing a press conference in Balochistan province's Quetta, the PPP chairperson claimed that rigging was done in every single election against his party. He added that to end the "cycle of rigging’ in elections, politicians need to reach a consensus". "The politicians need to agree that the match should be played fairly and the result should also be accepted," Bilawal added. He said that the PPP is playing a leading role in election reforms but a number of times, a party or a politician attempts to hinder the process. Also read | The Capitals: 'Angels' prevail in Islamabad but after historic blow to Pakistan Army Bilawal cited the examples of election rigging claims being heard in election tribunals. He said that Singh government has done 'significant' work in the health sector, vowing to do the same in Balochistan. He added that his party will provide relief to the people of Balochistan and ensure that they have access to quality healthcare and education. "The PPP has done a lot of work in the health sector in Sindh as a state-of-the-art hospital is established in Gambat for liver transplants. The hospital in Naseerabad, Balochhistan will be on par with the one in Gambat," Bilawal added. The PPP chairperson said that the National Accountability Bureau’s (NAB) abolition is in the party’s manifesto. Also watch | Gravitas: Pakistan Govt bans employees from siting late in offices to enjoy air-conditioning × Meanwhile, addressing the budget session of the National Assembly, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari claimed NAB used to carry out political engineering and revenge and defame politicians. He, however, did not name at whose behest NAB does these purported acts of political engineering. But notably, senior NAB officials are former or serving army officials. The PPP leader said he regrets the lack of consensus on NAB’s abolition. (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan's Bilawal Bhutto admits February elections were 'not transparent'

<p>France's tense election campaign reached its final pause on Saturday (July 6),&nbsp;before Sunday's second round runoff amid expectations of potential stalemate and stagnation for this major European power.</p>

<p>Final opinion polls released on Friday indicated that Marine Le Pen's far-right National Rally (RN) is unlikely to secure an outright majority in the National Assembly.</p>

<p>But&nbsp;President Emmanuel Macron's strategic gamble to prompt a clear choice between his centrist policies and the polarising extremes of the left and right seems to have faltered.</p>

<h2><strong>France runoff elections: What does it mean?</strong></h2>

<p>With no clear ruling majority in sight, Macron faces the prospect of navigating the remaining three years of his presidency under uncertain political conditions.</p>

<p>Polls by Ipsos and Ifop suggest that the anti-immigrant, eurosceptic RN might win between 170 and 210 seats in the National Assembly, falling short of the 289 seats required for an absolute majority.</p>

<p>The Ipsos Talan poll for Le Monde, Radio France, and France Televisions forecasts the RN narrowly leading the left-wing New Popular Front, which is projected to secure between 145 and 175 seats. In contrast, Macron's centrist allies, who held 250 seats in the outgoing parliament, are predicted to win only 118 to 148 seats.</p>

<p>"Either the RN wins an absolute majority and I can, from Sunday, embark on my project to rebuild...or the country is blocked,"&nbsp;Le Pen said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On the other hand, Prime Minister Gabriel&nbsp;Attal has pledged to continue in his role "as long as necessary".</p>

<p>Macron, whose term lasts until April 2027, now faces the possibility of cohabitating with political adversaries.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-snap-elections-macron-vows-to-stay-in-charge-until-2027-as-far-right-eyes-rout-734465">France snap elections: Macron vows to stay in charge 'until 2027' as far right eyes rout</a></strong></p>

<p>The prospect of France potentially forming its first far-right government since World War II has alarmed European allies.</p>

<p>Even if the RN falls short, as current polling suggests, France will navigate uncharted political territory as Paris prepares to host the Olympic Games.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;France elections: Fear of far-right in French neighbourhood | Discord in Macron camp as well</strong></p>

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<p>Meanwhile, in response to the far-right surge seen in the first round of voting on June 30, centrist and left-wing parties have formed second-round coalitions to curb Le Pen's momentum. Le Pen has criticised these alliances as attempts to undermine the people's will by creating a "single party" to protect the political elite.</p>

<p>However, it remains uncertain how many voters, whose preferred candidates withdrew to support others against the RN, will participate in Sunday's runoff.</p>


France's tense election campaign reached its final pause on Saturday (July 6), before Sunday's second round runoff amid expectations of potential stalemate and stagnation for this major European power.

France's tense election campaign reached its final pause on Saturday (July 6), before Sunday's second round runoff amid expectations of potential stalemate and stagnation for this major European power. Final opinion polls released on Friday indicated that Marine Le Pen's far-right National Rally (RN) is unlikely to secure an outright majority in the National Assembly. But President Emmanuel Macron's strategic gamble to prompt a clear choice between his centrist policies and the polarising extremes of the left and right seems to have faltered. France runoff elections: What does it mean? With no clear ruling majority in sight, Macron faces the prospect of navigating the remaining three years of his presidency under uncertain political conditions. Polls by Ipsos and Ifop suggest that the anti-immigrant, eurosceptic RN might win between 170 and 210 seats in the National Assembly, falling short of the 289 seats required for an absolute majority. The Ipsos Talan poll for Le Monde, Radio France, and France Televisions forecasts the RN narrowly leading the left-wing New Popular Front, which is projected to secure between 145 and 175 seats. In contrast, Macron's centrist allies, who held 250 seats in the outgoing parliament, are predicted to win only 118 to 148 seats. "Either the RN wins an absolute majority and I can, from Sunday, embark on my project to rebuild...or the country is blocked," Le Pen said. On the other hand, Prime Minister Gabriel Attal has pledged to continue in his role "as long as necessary". Macron, whose term lasts until April 2027, now faces the possibility of cohabitating with political adversaries. Also read | France snap elections: Macron vows to stay in charge 'until 2027' as far right eyes rout The prospect of France potentially forming its first far-right government since World War II has alarmed European allies. Even if the RN falls short, as current polling suggests, France will navigate uncharted political territory as Paris prepares to host the Olympic Games. Also watch | France elections: Fear of far-right in French neighbourhood | Discord in Macron camp as well × Meanwhile, in response to the far-right surge seen in the first round of voting on June 30, centrist and left-wing parties have formed second-round coalitions to curb Le Pen's momentum. Le Pen has criticised these alliances as attempts to undermine the people's will by creating a "single party" to protect the political elite. However, it remains uncertain how many voters, whose preferred candidates withdrew to support others against the RN, will participate in Sunday's runoff.

France snap elections: Exit Polls show Le Pen's party falling short of outright majority

<p><strong>UK elections 2024: </strong>The numbers are in and the verdict is out. Labour Party's Sir Keir Starmer is the new United Kingdom&nbsp;Prime Minister after his predecessor and Conservative Party heavyweight Rishi Sunak helmed over the worst electoral performance of Tories in modern times.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But even as the Labour won 412 of 650 seats, it won just over one-third of the national vote. The Conservatives' vote share fell by 20 percentage points as their members in the House of Commons fell to 121 against 251.</p>

<p>But between Starmer's elevation to Downing Street and the electoral decline of the Tories, the underdog story remains concealed within the small seat count (just 4) won by Nigel Farage's Reform UK Party.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;UK Elections 2024: New UK PM names his cabinet</strong></p>

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<p>Founded in 2018 at the peak of Britain's Brexit politics, Farage's party had never won a parliamentary seat at any election before July 4. But the breakthrough came for the Reform Party as it won five seats in the House of Commons. The Reform UK leader&nbsp;himself was elected for the first time in his eighth election.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But the five seats Farage's party won does not show the significant support it won across the UK, taking away support from both the Tories as well as the Labour.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The party came second in 103 seats. Of these, 93 were finally won by the Labour.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-elections-2024-what-rishi-sunaks-exit-as-uk-pm-means-for-india-uk-ties-737858">UK elections 2024: What Rishi Sunak's exit as UK PM means for India-UK ties</a></strong></p>

<p>Sunak had earlier miscalculated that Farage was planning to sit out the election. But he dramatically returned to front-line politics as the leader of the right-wing Reform UK party two weeks into the election.</p>

<p>Reform UK went surging in the polls and even briefly pushed the Sunak's Tories into an embarrassing third place with some pollsters.</p>

<h2><strong>Reform UK's performance in&nbsp;General Elections</strong></h2>

<p>Farage himself defeated the Conservative candidate, Giles Watling, a representative of the coastal constituency in Essex since 2017. The Reform UK leader&nbsp;won 21,225 votes to Watling’s 12,820, a majority of 8,405.</p>

<p>"We are coming for Labour… be in no doubt about that," he said, in a short speech at a leisure centre in the seaside town.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


UK elections 2024: The numbers are in and the verdict is out. Labour Party's Sir Keir Starmer is the new United Kingdom Prime Minister after his predecessor and Conservative Party heavyweight Rishi Sunak helmed over the worst electoral performance of Tories in modern times.

UK elections 2024: The numbers are in and the verdict is out. Labour Party's Sir Keir Starmer is the new United Kingdom Prime Minister after his predecessor and Conservative Party heavyweight Rishi Sunak helmed over the worst electoral performance of Tories in modern times. But even as the Labour won 412 of 650 seats, it won just over one-third of the national vote. The Conservatives' vote share fell by 20 percentage points as their members in the House of Commons fell to 121 against 251. But between Starmer's elevation to Downing Street and the electoral decline of the Tories, the underdog story remains concealed within the small seat count (just 4) won by Nigel Farage's Reform UK Party. Also watch | UK Elections 2024: New UK PM names his cabinet × Founded in 2018 at the peak of Britain's Brexit politics, Farage's party had never won a parliamentary seat at any election before July 4. But the breakthrough came for the Reform Party as it won five seats in the House of Commons. The Reform UK leader himself was elected for the first time in his eighth election. But the five seats Farage's party won does not show the significant support it won across the UK, taking away support from both the Tories as well as the Labour. The party came second in 103 seats. Of these, 93 were finally won by the Labour. Also read | UK elections 2024: What Rishi Sunak's exit as UK PM means for India-UK ties Sunak had earlier miscalculated that Farage was planning to sit out the election. But he dramatically returned to front-line politics as the leader of the right-wing Reform UK party two weeks into the election. Reform UK went surging in the polls and even briefly pushed the Sunak's Tories into an embarrassing third place with some pollsters. Reform UK's performance in General Elections Farage himself defeated the Conservative candidate, Giles Watling, a representative of the coastal constituency in Essex since 2017. The Reform UK leader won 21,225 votes to Watling’s 12,820, a majority of 8,405. "We are coming for Labour… be in no doubt about that," he said, in a short speech at a leisure centre in the seaside town. (With inputs from agencies)

Inside Nigel Farage's rise that shows extent of its impact in UK elections

<p>US President Joe Biden asserted his will to be in the White House race and said he was feeling sick due to a cold during the presidential debate on June 28. The rebellion is currently brewing among the core Democrat voters in and beyond the blue states after Biden's terrible debate performance against Donald Trump. .</p>

<p>"I was sick, I was feeling terrible... We were trying to figure out what's wrong," the president said in an excerpt of his first TV interview since the debate.</p>

<p>"They did a test to see whether or not I had some infection, you know, a virus. I didn't. I just had a really bad cold."</p>

<p>Biden also responded to the calls for a cognitive test during the ABC interview. "I have a cognitive test every single day. Every day I have that test, everything I do," Biden, 81, said.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-under-pressure-to-drop-presidential-re-run-as-trump-widens-his-lead-737597">Biden under pressure to drop presidential re-run as Trump widens his lead</a></strong></p>

<p>The Biden campaign continues to push back hard on any suggestion he may withdraw. Hours before the ABC interview, they released an aggressive campaign travel schedule for the rest of July.</p>

<p>Appearing at a campaign rally in Madison, Wisconsin, Biden tried to put an energetic face to declare, "I'm staying in the race. I'll beat Donald Trump."</p>

<p>"Let's focus on what really matters," Biden said, reading from teleprompters. "We're running against the biggest liar and the biggest threat... to our democracy in American history -- that's not hyperbole."</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;US: I'm in the race to the end says Joe Biden, rejects pressure to abandon campaign</strong></p>

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<p>Joe Biden's travel plans include Pennsylvania this weekend, then the NATO meeting, and back on the campaign trail.</p>

<p>The president will "engage in frequent off-the-cuff moments over the course of the month, as he has consistently throughout this campaign," his team said.</p>

<p>With speculation swirling over a potential switch in the Democratic ticket, Kamala Harris, the nation's first female vice president, has suddenly been in the spotlight.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


US President Joe Biden asserted his will to be in the White House race and said he was feeling sick due to a cold during the presidential debate on June 28. The rebellion is currently brewing among the core Democrat voters in and beyond the blue states after Biden's terrible debate performance against Donald Trump.

US President Joe Biden asserted his will to be in the White House race and said he was feeling sick due to a cold during the presidential debate on June 28. The rebellion is currently brewing among the core Democrat voters in and beyond the blue states after Biden's terrible debate performance against Donald Trump. . "I was sick, I was feeling terrible... We were trying to figure out what's wrong," the president said in an excerpt of his first TV interview since the debate. "They did a test to see whether or not I had some infection, you know, a virus. I didn't. I just had a really bad cold." Biden also responded to the calls for a cognitive test during the ABC interview. "I have a cognitive test every single day. Every day I have that test, everything I do," Biden, 81, said. Also read | Biden under pressure to drop presidential re-run as Trump widens his lead The Biden campaign continues to push back hard on any suggestion he may withdraw. Hours before the ABC interview, they released an aggressive campaign travel schedule for the rest of July. Appearing at a campaign rally in Madison, Wisconsin, Biden tried to put an energetic face to declare, "I'm staying in the race. I'll beat Donald Trump." "Let's focus on what really matters," Biden said, reading from teleprompters. "We're running against the biggest liar and the biggest threat... to our democracy in American history -- that's not hyperbole." Also watch | US: I'm in the race to the end says Joe Biden, rejects pressure to abandon campaign × Joe Biden's travel plans include Pennsylvania this weekend, then the NATO meeting, and back on the campaign trail. The president will "engage in frequent off-the-cuff moments over the course of the month, as he has consistently throughout this campaign," his team said. With speculation swirling over a potential switch in the Democratic ticket, Kamala Harris, the nation's first female vice president, has suddenly been in the spotlight. (With inputs from agencies)

Joe Biden dismisses calls to quit White House race ahead of NATO summit

<p>In reformist Masoud Pezeshkian, Iran has found a new president over a month after President Ebrahim Raisi's death in a helicopter crash which necessitated&nbsp;snap elections. A cardiac surgeon and single dad who is seen as an advocate of greater freedoms for women in post-revolution Iran, Pezeshkian will now confront&nbsp;the challenge of navigating through his reformist policy agenda in a deeply conservative polity.</p>

<p>But there is one aspect of Pezeshkian's job in which he is expected to be on the same page as the Supreme Leader and incredibly powerful Guardian Council: bilateral ties with India.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-elections-will-cardiac-surgeon-pezeshkian-win-peoples-hearts-in-runoff-737606https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-elections-will-cardiac-surgeon-pezeshkian-win-peoples-hearts-in-runoff-737606">The structure of power in Iran: How is it different?</a></strong></p>

<p>On the economic front, Iran continues to face the burden of choking US&nbsp;sanctions amid Tehran's tacit insistence on becoming a nuclear power. But in recent years, Tehran has found a credible economic partner in New Delhi. The&nbsp;two countries recently formalised a crucial Chabahar port deal.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India has formalised some of its most significant foreign&nbsp;investments, with a deal for the operations of a part of&nbsp;Iran's Chabahar Port, located just 200 km from China-funded Gwadar port in Pakistan, and key to New Delhi's connectivity ambitions with Russia through Central Asia.</p>

<p><img alt="Iran is at the center of International North South Transport Corridor (INSTC)" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/INSTC.png" /></p>

<p><em>Iran is at the centre of&nbsp;the International North-South&nbsp;Transport Corridor (INSTC) | WION</em></p>

<p>External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar visited Iran in January this year with a focus on concluding the Chabahar Port Deal and developments on the North-South Corridor.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/the-capitals-new-delhi-achieves-crucial-strategic-breakthrough-with-tehran-outreach-682114">The Capitals: New Delhi achieves crucial strategic breakthrough with Tehran outreach</a></strong></p>

<p>Five months after Jaishankar's Tehran visit in which the two sides committed to a "long term cooperation framework" over Chabahar port's development, India and Iran signed a 10-year contract for equipping and operation of general cargo and container terminals of Chabahar port.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/the-capitals-new-delhi-seals-deal-to-operate-chabahar-port-for-a-decade-723100">The Capitals: New Delhi seals deal to operate Chabahar port for a decade; and more</a></strong></p>

<p>The Chabahar Port project is central to India's regional connectivity strategy and serves as a vital gateway for Indian goods into Afghanistan and Russia.&nbsp;The port's strategic location provides an alternative route for landlocked Afghanistan to access international markets, reducing its dependence on Pakistan and giving New Delhi&nbsp;a strategic advantage in a Taliban-run Kabul.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Pezeshkian in Tehran: What it means for New&nbsp;Delhi?</strong></h2>

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<p>In past, even when the Conservative presidents were in power in Iran, New Delhi managed to utilise its diplomatic capital in the West to secure a waiver of sanctions for economic cooperation with Tehran&nbsp;— especially for Chabahar's development.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But with Pezeshkian's promising outlook for&nbsp;country's better ties with the West along with the rest of the world&nbsp;— and India's elevated ties with most Western powers&nbsp;— it will make New Delhi's economic cooperation with Tehran devoid of geopolitical brakes.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Iran election: Reformer Masoud Pezeshkian elected new president</strong></p>

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<p>As the world's fifth biggest economy with a per capita income as less as $2400, it's in India's interest to ensure feasible connectivity routes so that Indians back home are able to get cheaper goods.</p>


In reformist Masoud Pezeshkian, Iran has found a new president over a month after President Ebrahim Raisi's death in a helicopter crash which necessitated snap elections.

In reformist Masoud Pezeshkian, Iran has found a new president over a month after President Ebrahim Raisi's death in a helicopter crash which necessitated snap elections. A cardiac surgeon and single dad who is seen as an advocate of greater freedoms for women in post-revolution Iran, Pezeshkian will now confront the challenge of navigating through his reformist policy agenda in a deeply conservative polity. But there is one aspect of Pezeshkian's job in which he is expected to be on the same page as the Supreme Leader and incredibly powerful Guardian Council: bilateral ties with India. Also read | The structure of power in Iran: How is it different? On the economic front, Iran continues to face the burden of choking US sanctions amid Tehran's tacit insistence on becoming a nuclear power. But in recent years, Tehran has found a credible economic partner in New Delhi. The two countries recently formalised a crucial Chabahar port deal. India has formalised some of its most significant foreign investments, with a deal for the operations of a part of Iran's Chabahar Port, located just 200 km from China-funded Gwadar port in Pakistan, and key to New Delhi's connectivity ambitions with Russia through Central Asia. Iran is at the centre of the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC) | WION External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar visited Iran in January this year with a focus on concluding the Chabahar Port Deal and developments on the North-South Corridor. Also read | The Capitals: New Delhi achieves crucial strategic breakthrough with Tehran outreach Five months after Jaishankar's Tehran visit in which the two sides committed to a "long term cooperation framework" over Chabahar port's development, India and Iran signed a 10-year contract for equipping and operation of general cargo and container terminals of Chabahar port. Also read | The Capitals: New Delhi seals deal to operate Chabahar port for a decade; and more The Chabahar Port project is central to India's regional connectivity strategy and serves as a vital gateway for Indian goods into Afghanistan and Russia. The port's strategic location provides an alternative route for landlocked Afghanistan to access international markets, reducing its dependence on Pakistan and giving New Delhi a strategic advantage in a Taliban-run Kabul. Pezeshkian in Tehran: What it means for New Delhi? In past, even when the Conservative presidents were in power in Iran, New Delhi managed to utilise its diplomatic capital in the West to secure a waiver of sanctions for economic cooperation with Tehran — especially for Chabahar's development. But with Pezeshkian's promising outlook for country's better ties with the West along with the rest of the world — and India's elevated ties with most Western powers — it will make New Delhi's economic cooperation with Tehran devoid of geopolitical brakes. Also watch | Iran election: Reformer Masoud Pezeshkian elected new president × As the world's fifth biggest economy with a per capita income as less as $2400, it's in India's interest to ensure feasible connectivity routes so that Indians back home are able to get cheaper goods.

Why reformist Pezeshkian may ease economic cooperation between India and Iran

<p>Masoud Pezeshkian, Iran's sole reformist candidate in the snap presidential election, has emerged from relative obscurity to become the ninth president of the Islamic republic. The elections were made necessary after President Ebrahim Raisi's death in a plane crash a month ago.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-elections-one-reformist-four-khameini-loyalists-to-battle-it-out-in-june-28-polls-735562">Iran elections: One reformist, three Khamenei loyalists to battle it out in June 28 polls</a></strong></p>

<p>Pezeshkian, 69, secured approximately 53.6 per cent of the vote in a runoff election against the ultraconservative Saeed Jalili.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-delivers-reformist-verdict-as-cardiac-surgeon-pezeshkian-wins-hearts-in-presidential-elections-738393">Iran delivers reformist verdict as cardiac surgeon Pezeshkian wins hearts in presidential elections</a></strong></p>

<p>In the first round of Iran's snap elections on June 28, Pezeshkian led the polls against three other conservative candidates, surprising critics and admirers alike.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/the-capitals-tehran-delivers-reformist-election-whisper-before-runoff-and-more-736552">The Capitals: Tehran delivers reformist election whisper before runoff; and more</a></strong></p>

<p>Pezeshkian's victory has reignited the hopes of Iran's reformists after years of conservative and ultraconservative dominance.</p>

<p>"The difficult path ahead will not be smooth without your companionship, empathy, and trust. I extend my hand to you," Pezeshkian said in a post on X, after previously stating he would "extend the hand of friendship to everyone" if he won.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iranians-vote-in-snap-polls-with-hopes-for-better-economy-regional-stability-735900">Iranians vote in snap polls with hopes of better economy, regional stability</a></strong></p>

<p>The outspoken heart surgeon publicly criticised Ebrahim Raisi's government over its handling of the death of Iranian Kurd Mahsa Amini, who was arrested for allegedly violating the Islamic republic's strict dress code for women.</p>

<p>In a post on X, he called on authorities to "set up an investigation team" to examine the circumstances of her death.</p>

<p>During his recent campaign, he maintained his stance, criticising the enforcement of mandatory hijab laws which require women to cover their head and neck in public since shortly after the 1979 Islamic revolution.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Iran election 2024: Reformist Pezeshkian wins presidential runoff election, defeating Jalili</strong></p>

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<p>"We oppose any violent and inhumane behavior towards anyone, notably our sisters and daughters, and we will not allow these actions to happen," he said.</p>

<p>He also promised to ease internet restrictions and involve ethnic minorities in his government.</p>

<p>Pezeshkian was born in 1954 to an Iranian father of Turkic origin and a Kurdish mother in Mahabad, a city in the northwestern province of West Azerbaijan.</p>

<p>He has represented Tabriz in Iran's parliament since 2008, served as health minister in Khatami's government, and oversaw medical teams during the Iran-Iraq war from 1980 to 1988.</p>

<p>In 1993, Pezeshkian lost his wife and one of his children in a car accident. He never remarried and raised his remaining three children—two sons and a daughter—on his own.</p>

<p>Campaigning for Pezeshkian was Mohammad Javad Zarif, Iran's former foreign minister who helped secure the landmark 2015 nuclear deal with world powers, which collapsed three years later during Donald Trump's presidency.</p>

<p>Pezeshkian has called for reviving the accord—which aimed to curb Tehran's nuclear activity in exchange for sanctions relief—to bring Iran "out of isolation."</p>

<p>"If we manage to lift the sanctions, people will have an easier life while the continuation of sanctions means making people's lives miserable," he said during a televised interview.</p>

<p>Pezeshkian will be responsible for implementing state policy outlined by Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who holds ultimate authority in the country.</p>


Masoud Pezeshkian, Iran's sole reformist candidate in the snap presidential election, has emerged from relative obscurity to become the ninth president of the Islamic republic.

Masoud Pezeshkian, Iran's sole reformist candidate in the snap presidential election, has emerged from relative obscurity to become the ninth president of the Islamic republic. The elections were made necessary after President Ebrahim Raisi's death in a plane crash a month ago. Also read | Iran elections: One reformist, three Khamenei loyalists to battle it out in June 28 polls Pezeshkian, 69, secured approximately 53.6 per cent of the vote in a runoff election against the ultraconservative Saeed Jalili. Also read | Iran delivers reformist verdict as cardiac surgeon Pezeshkian wins hearts in presidential elections In the first round of Iran's snap elections on June 28, Pezeshkian led the polls against three other conservative candidates, surprising critics and admirers alike. Also read | The Capitals: Tehran delivers reformist election whisper before runoff; and more Pezeshkian's victory has reignited the hopes of Iran's reformists after years of conservative and ultraconservative dominance. "The difficult path ahead will not be smooth without your companionship, empathy, and trust. I extend my hand to you," Pezeshkian said in a post on X, after previously stating he would "extend the hand of friendship to everyone" if he won. Also read | Iranians vote in snap polls with hopes of better economy, regional stability The outspoken heart surgeon publicly criticised Ebrahim Raisi's government over its handling of the death of Iranian Kurd Mahsa Amini, who was arrested for allegedly violating the Islamic republic's strict dress code for women. In a post on X, he called on authorities to "set up an investigation team" to examine the circumstances of her death. During his recent campaign, he maintained his stance, criticising the enforcement of mandatory hijab laws which require women to cover their head and neck in public since shortly after the 1979 Islamic revolution. Also watch | Iran election 2024: Reformist Pezeshkian wins presidential runoff election, defeating Jalili × "We oppose any violent and inhumane behavior towards anyone, notably our sisters and daughters, and we will not allow these actions to happen," he said. He also promised to ease internet restrictions and involve ethnic minorities in his government. Pezeshkian was born in 1954 to an Iranian father of Turkic origin and a Kurdish mother in Mahabad, a city in the northwestern province of West Azerbaijan. He has represented Tabriz in Iran's parliament since 2008, served as health minister in Khatami's government, and oversaw medical teams during the Iran-Iraq war from 1980 to 1988. In 1993, Pezeshkian lost his wife and one of his children in a car accident. He never remarried and raised his remaining three children—two sons and a daughter—on his own. Campaigning for Pezeshkian was Mohammad Javad Zarif, Iran's former foreign minister who helped secure the landmark 2015 nuclear deal with world powers, which collapsed three years later during Donald Trump's presidency. Pezeshkian has called for reviving the accord—which aimed to curb Tehran's nuclear activity in exchange for sanctions relief—to bring Iran "out of isolation." "If we manage to lift the sanctions, people will have an easier life while the continuation of sanctions means making people's lives miserable," he said during a televised interview. Pezeshkian will be responsible for implementing state policy outlined by Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who holds ultimate authority in the country.

Masoud Pezeshkian: Iran's heart-specialist president is single dad who stood for Mahsa Amini

<p>K Armstrong, the 52-year-old president of the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) in southern Indian&nbsp;state of Tamil Nadu, succumbed to injuries after a fatal attack by knife-wielding assailants near his Chennai home on Friday (July 5). The incident involved six unidentified men who brutally stabbed Armstrong, leaving him fatally injured.</p>

<p>CCTV footage captured the attackers fleeing the scene. Police has detained eight suspects in connection with the case.</p>

<p>"The brutal murder of a hardworking and dedicated leader of the BSP in Tamil Nadu and the state party unit president Shri K. Armstrong outside his Chennai residence yesterday evening has sent shockwaves across the society. The government should immediately take strict/necessary action to prevent such incidents in future," BSP matriarch Mayawati said in a post on X.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;BSP Chief Mayawati revives West UP statehood debate</strong></p>

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<p>"Considering the seriousness of this extremely sad and worrying incident, I am planning to go to Chennai tomorrow morning to pay my tributes to Mr Armstrong and meet his grieving family and console them. I appeal to all to maintain peace and order," said Mayawati.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bsp-tamil-nadu-president-armstrong-brutally-hacked-to-death-by-masked-bikers-near-his-chennai-home-738372">BSP Tamil Nadu president Armstrong brutally hacked to death by masked bikers near his Chennai home</a></strong></p>

<p>Armstrong was a prominent political figure and a respected advocate. A staunch Ambedkarite, he was dedicated to advancing the cause of Dalits and was well-known in the North Chennai region, particularly among the youth. His efforts to support educational and employment opportunities for young people earned him widespread popularity and respect.</p>

<p>Beyond his legal practice, Armstrong played a significant role in local politics. He mediated disputes, advocated for social welfare, and actively participated in community-building initiatives, solidifying his reputation as a formidable leader. As the Tamil Nadu state president of the BSP, Armstrong used his platform to advocate for marginalised communities.</p>

<p>In 2006, Armstrong was elected as a Chennai Corporation councillor, a role that allowed him to directly influence local governance. In 2011, he contested the assembly elections from the Kolathur constituency against DMK’s MK Stalin. Though he did not win, Armstrong garnered substantial support, reflecting his broad base of followers.</p>

<p>Despite his positive contributions, Armstrong's past was not without controversy. Police officials noted that he had a history sheet with several criminal cases registered against him, though it was closed a few years ago.</p>

<p>Armstrong also gained national prominence by organising rallies for BSP chief Mayawati in Chennai and played a key role in the party's regional activities. His untimely death is a significant loss to his community and the political landscape of Tamil Nadu.</p>


K Armstrong, the 52-year-old president of the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) in southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu, succumbed to injuries after a fatal attack by knife-wielding assailants near his Chennai home on Friday (July 5).

K Armstrong, the 52-year-old president of the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) in southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu, succumbed to injuries after a fatal attack by knife-wielding assailants near his Chennai home on Friday (July 5). The incident involved six unidentified men who brutally stabbed Armstrong, leaving him fatally injured. CCTV footage captured the attackers fleeing the scene. Police has detained eight suspects in connection with the case. "The brutal murder of a hardworking and dedicated leader of the BSP in Tamil Nadu and the state party unit president Shri K. Armstrong outside his Chennai residence yesterday evening has sent shockwaves across the society. The government should immediately take strict/necessary action to prevent such incidents in future," BSP matriarch Mayawati said in a post on X. Also watch | BSP Chief Mayawati revives West UP statehood debate × "Considering the seriousness of this extremely sad and worrying incident, I am planning to go to Chennai tomorrow morning to pay my tributes to Mr Armstrong and meet his grieving family and console them. I appeal to all to maintain peace and order," said Mayawati. Also read | BSP Tamil Nadu president Armstrong brutally hacked to death by masked bikers near his Chennai home Armstrong was a prominent political figure and a respected advocate. A staunch Ambedkarite, he was dedicated to advancing the cause of Dalits and was well-known in the North Chennai region, particularly among the youth. His efforts to support educational and employment opportunities for young people earned him widespread popularity and respect. Beyond his legal practice, Armstrong played a significant role in local politics. He mediated disputes, advocated for social welfare, and actively participated in community-building initiatives, solidifying his reputation as a formidable leader. As the Tamil Nadu state president of the BSP, Armstrong used his platform to advocate for marginalised communities. In 2006, Armstrong was elected as a Chennai Corporation councillor, a role that allowed him to directly influence local governance. In 2011, he contested the assembly elections from the Kolathur constituency against DMK’s MK Stalin. Though he did not win, Armstrong garnered substantial support, reflecting his broad base of followers. Despite his positive contributions, Armstrong's past was not without controversy. Police officials noted that he had a history sheet with several criminal cases registered against him, though it was closed a few years ago. Armstrong also gained national prominence by organising rallies for BSP chief Mayawati in Chennai and played a key role in the party's regional activities. His untimely death is a significant loss to his community and the political landscape of Tamil Nadu.

Who is K. Armstrong, BSP Tamil Nadu chief brutally hacked to death?

<p>The White House insiders have reportedly claimed that President Joe Biden occasionally forgot names and just as the visuals in public domain continue to show, also needed assistance from his wife, Jill Biden, to greet people.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Reports say confidants have expressed concerns about Biden's interactions. Longtime friends of the Biden family have reportedly been shocked to discover that Biden doesn't remember their names. One guest at a White House event last year claimed the President had to leave early due to difficulties in coping with the event.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-vs-trump-in-us-presidential-debate-2024-top-takeaways-explained-735850">Ageing Biden struggles as Trump delivers damaging attacks: Top takeaways from US presidential debate 2024</a></strong></p>

<p>"Those who encountered the president in social settings sometimes disturbed left after their interactions," Olivia Nuzzi, Washington correspondent for Intelligencer wrote.&nbsp;</p>

<p>More insiders allege it has become tougher to reach the president as the White House red tape shields him from potentially awkward encounters.</p>

<p>In a meeting with a significant donor, Jill Biden reportedly had to nudge her husband to greet and thank him for his contribution.&nbsp;</p>

<p>An onlooker commented: "It hasn't been good for a long time but it's gotten so, so much worse. So much worse!" the Mirror US reported.</p>

<h2><strong>What does it mean?</strong></h2>

<p>As President Joe Biden approaches a crucial period to stabilise his re-election campaign, there is an increasing speculation about his fitness for the re-election campaign. Some donors are even reportedly reconsidering their support or withdrawing from fundraisers.</p>

<p>While Biden has asserted that he won't pull out&nbsp;from the presidential race, the speculations continue about his fitness.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;'I am not going anywhere', Biden slams concern around presidential bid</strong></p>

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<p>"I'm not going anywhere," Biden boldly told attendees at a July 4th barbecue on the White House South Lawn. Later, as fireworks illuminated the night sky, Biden was spotted on the balcony with his family and Vice President Kamala Harris alongside her husband, Doug Emhoff, presenting a united front.</p>

<p>In a show of unity, Harris was seen gripping Biden's hand and raising it high, followed by a heartfelt hug between the two. At a gathering with Democratic governors, Biden confessed he needs more sleep and fewer late-night commitments to ensure he's ready for duty.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The White House insiders have reportedly claimed that President Joe Biden occasionally forgot names and just as the visuals in public domain continue to show, also needed assistance from his wife, Jill Biden, to greet people.

The White House insiders have reportedly claimed that President Joe Biden occasionally forgot names and just as the visuals in public domain continue to show, also needed assistance from his wife, Jill Biden, to greet people. Reports say confidants have expressed concerns about Biden's interactions. Longtime friends of the Biden family have reportedly been shocked to discover that Biden doesn't remember their names. One guest at a White House event last year claimed the President had to leave early due to difficulties in coping with the event. Also read | Ageing Biden struggles as Trump delivers damaging attacks: Top takeaways from US presidential debate 2024 "Those who encountered the president in social settings sometimes disturbed left after their interactions," Olivia Nuzzi, Washington correspondent for Intelligencer wrote. More insiders allege it has become tougher to reach the president as the White House red tape shields him from potentially awkward encounters. In a meeting with a significant donor, Jill Biden reportedly had to nudge her husband to greet and thank him for his contribution. An onlooker commented: "It hasn't been good for a long time but it's gotten so, so much worse. So much worse!" the Mirror US reported. What does it mean? As President Joe Biden approaches a crucial period to stabilise his re-election campaign, there is an increasing speculation about his fitness for the re-election campaign. Some donors are even reportedly reconsidering their support or withdrawing from fundraisers. While Biden has asserted that he won't pull out from the presidential race, the speculations continue about his fitness. Also watch | 'I am not going anywhere', Biden slams concern around presidential bid × "I'm not going anywhere," Biden boldly told attendees at a July 4th barbecue on the White House South Lawn. Later, as fireworks illuminated the night sky, Biden was spotted on the balcony with his family and Vice President Kamala Harris alongside her husband, Doug Emhoff, presenting a united front. In a show of unity, Harris was seen gripping Biden's hand and raising it high, followed by a heartfelt hug between the two. At a gathering with Democratic governors, Biden confessed he needs more sleep and fewer late-night commitments to ensure he's ready for duty. (With inputs from agencies)

Joe Biden forgets names of longtime friends amid age-related concerns: Report

<p>Hungary's Prime Minister Viktor Orban arrived in Moscow on Friday (July 5) to meet President Vladimir Putin of Russia in a major setback to western-European effort to isolate Russia. Orban's visit comes less than a week before Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's scheduled visit to Russia for an annual India-Russia visit.</p>

<p>Orban's visit to Moscow comes just five days into Hungary's takeover of EU's rotating presidency. He first went to Kyiv and then landed in Moscow.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"As part of his peace mission Viktor Orbán has arrived in Moscow," his spokesperson told state news agency MTI. "The prime minister is meeting Vladimir Putin, the president of Russia."</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine War: Hungary's Orban urges ceasefire on Kyiv visit</strong></p>

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<p>The visit is the first by an EU leader to Russia since April 2022 when Austria's Chancellor Karl Nehammer visited Moscow to convince Vladimir Putin to end the war in Ukraine.</p>

<p>"Hungary does not have the mandate to negotiate on behalf of the European Union. I would never pretend. But I can explore the situation," he told state media on Friday (July 5).</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-modis-visit-could-deepen-russian-trade-ties-with-india-says-kremlin-737172">Kremlin says trade, economy on agenda during PM Modi's 'very important' visit to Russia</a></strong></p>

<p>Meanwhile, the EU’s top diplomat, Josep Borrell, on Friday (July 5) said Orban's visit to Moscow was an "exclusively" bilateral one as the Hungarian leader "has not received any mandate...  to visit Moscow" and was "not representing the EU in any form".</p>

<p>European Council president Charles Michel took to X to assert Hungary does not have the legitimacy to speak for the bloc.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Orban has consistently taken a pro-Russia stance since 2022 and has opposed EU sanctions on Moscow.</p>

<p>He was also the first western leader to meet Putin in China last October after the International Criminal Court issued an arrest warrant for war crimes allegedly perpetrated by the Russian leader.</p>

<p>Putin defended Orban saying: "They are attacking him not because he has a different position from other European leaders, but because he has the courage to defend the interests of his people."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Many politicians in Europe today lack that courage and envy him."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Hungary's Prime Minister Viktor Orban arrived in Moscow on Friday (July 5) to meet President Vladimir Putin of Russia in a major setback to western-European effort to isolate Russia.

Hungary's Prime Minister Viktor Orban arrived in Moscow on Friday (July 5) to meet President Vladimir Putin of Russia in a major setback to western-European effort to isolate Russia. Orban's visit comes less than a week before Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's scheduled visit to Russia for an annual India-Russia visit. Orban's visit to Moscow comes just five days into Hungary's takeover of EU's rotating presidency. He first went to Kyiv and then landed in Moscow. "As part of his peace mission Viktor Orbán has arrived in Moscow," his spokesperson told state news agency MTI. "The prime minister is meeting Vladimir Putin, the president of Russia." Also watch | Russia-Ukraine War: Hungary's Orban urges ceasefire on Kyiv visit × The visit is the first by an EU leader to Russia since April 2022 when Austria's Chancellor Karl Nehammer visited Moscow to convince Vladimir Putin to end the war in Ukraine. "Hungary does not have the mandate to negotiate on behalf of the European Union. I would never pretend. But I can explore the situation," he told state media on Friday (July 5). Also read | Kremlin says trade, economy on agenda during PM Modi's 'very important' visit to Russia Meanwhile, the EU’s top diplomat, Josep Borrell, on Friday (July 5) said Orban's visit to Moscow was an "exclusively" bilateral one as the Hungarian leader "has not received any mandate...  to visit Moscow" and was "not representing the EU in any form". European Council president Charles Michel took to X to assert Hungary does not have the legitimacy to speak for the bloc. Orban has consistently taken a pro-Russia stance since 2022 and has opposed EU sanctions on Moscow. He was also the first western leader to meet Putin in China last October after the International Criminal Court issued an arrest warrant for war crimes allegedly perpetrated by the Russian leader. Putin defended Orban saying: "They are attacking him not because he has a different position from other European leaders, but because he has the courage to defend the interests of his people." "Many politicians in Europe today lack that courage and envy him." (With inputs from agencies)

Orban meets Putin in Moscow as Hungary takes over EU presidency

<p>UK's Larry the Cat, chief mouser of the country's prime minister's office in London's Downing Street, wrote on X (formerly Twitter) that he is the real boss of British corridors of power. Larry's post on X came amid Rishi Sunak&nbsp;tendering his&nbsp;resignation to the British monarch Charles III and Keir Starmer’s pending appointment as prime minister.</p>

<p>"Rishi Sunak has offered his resignation to The King but Keir Starmer has yet to be appointed as Prime Minister, so who’s in charge? Me," an X account attributed to Larry the Cat wrote.</p>

<p>The chief mouser has served during the premierships of David Cameron, Theresa May, Boris Johnson, Liz Truss and Rishi Sunak.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-keir-starmer-start-from-where-rishi-sunak-left-what-a-labour-pm-means-for-india-uk-ties-738186">Will Keir Starmer start where Rishi Sunak left? What a Labour PM means for India-UK ties</a></strong></p>

<p>The Conservative heavyweight Rishi Sunak stepped down as prime minister of the United Kingdom after the Tories failed to win a majority in UK's general election. The Conservative Party won just 120 seats in the 650-member House of Commons, the lower house of the parliament directly elected by the people.</p>

<p>The Labour Party returned to power after 14 years, winning 412 seats. The Labour crossed the majority mark of 326 seats to form the government with Sir Keir Starmer as its leader.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Rishi Sunak delivers last message as prime minister</strong></h2>

<p>"I have given this job my all. But you have sent a clear message, and yours is the only judgement that matters," Rishi Sunak said on Instagram.</p>

<p>He added, "This is a difficult day, but I leave this job honoured to have been Prime Minister of the best country in the world."</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;UK Elections 2024: Labour wins, Ready to change our country for the better says Starmer</strong></p>

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<p>The 44-year-old also shared a picture of himself with his wife, Akshata Murty, daughter of Infosys co-founder NR Narayana Murthy and Rajya Sabha MP and philanthropist Sudha Murty.</p>

<p>“The right honourable Rishi Sunak MP had an audience of the King this morning and tendered his resignation as prime minister and first lord of the Treasury, which his majesty was graciously pleased to accept,” said Buckingham Palace in a statement.<br />
<br />
<em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


UK's Larry the Cat, chief mouser of the country's prime minister's office in London's Downing Street, wrote on X (formerly Twitter) that he is the real boss of British corridors of power.

UK's Larry the Cat, chief mouser of the country's prime minister's office in London's Downing Street, wrote on X (formerly Twitter) that he is the real boss of British corridors of power. Larry's post on X came amid Rishi Sunak tendering his resignation to the British monarch Charles III and Keir Starmer’s pending appointment as prime minister. "Rishi Sunak has offered his resignation to The King but Keir Starmer has yet to be appointed as Prime Minister, so who’s in charge? Me," an X account attributed to Larry the Cat wrote. The chief mouser has served during the premierships of David Cameron, Theresa May, Boris Johnson, Liz Truss and Rishi Sunak. Also read | Will Keir Starmer start where Rishi Sunak left? What a Labour PM means for India-UK ties The Conservative heavyweight Rishi Sunak stepped down as prime minister of the United Kingdom after the Tories failed to win a majority in UK's general election. The Conservative Party won just 120 seats in the 650-member House of Commons, the lower house of the parliament directly elected by the people. The Labour Party returned to power after 14 years, winning 412 seats. The Labour crossed the majority mark of 326 seats to form the government with Sir Keir Starmer as its leader. Rishi Sunak delivers last message as prime minister "I have given this job my all. But you have sent a clear message, and yours is the only judgement that matters," Rishi Sunak said on Instagram. He added, "This is a difficult day, but I leave this job honoured to have been Prime Minister of the best country in the world." Also watch | UK Elections 2024: Labour wins, Ready to change our country for the better says Starmer × The 44-year-old also shared a picture of himself with his wife, Akshata Murty, daughter of Infosys co-founder NR Narayana Murthy and Rajya Sabha MP and philanthropist Sudha Murty. “The right honourable Rishi Sunak MP had an audience of the King this morning and tendered his resignation as prime minister and first lord of the Treasury, which his majesty was graciously pleased to accept,” said Buckingham Palace in a statement. (With inputs from agencies)

Larry the Cat says he's in charge of UK until next prime minister takes charge

<p>In June 2019, when the European corridors of power were still reeling under the impact of the UK's decision to withdraw from the European Union, the ruling Conservatives were clear that Prime Minister Theresa May's successor should be a "true Brexiteer".&nbsp;</p>

<p>On July 24, 2019, Boris Johnson entered 10, Downing Street, promising to defy 'the doubters, the doomsters, the gloomsters' by completing Brexit with a deal by October 31 that year.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Curtains down at 14 years of Conservative-led government</strong></p>

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<p>The Tories under Johnson called, and won the elections held in December 2019, essentially on one issue: Brexit.</p>

<p>The Brexit finally came into effect on January 31, 2020 under new Prime Minister Boris Johnson at the cusp of Covid pandemic.&nbsp;</p>

<p>About 41 months later, after a spree of controversies including the partygate scandal, Johnson was forced to resign. Succeeded by Liz Truss whose tenure infamously lasted less than that of a Lettuce, Rishi Sunak took over as UK Prime Minister in October 2022.&nbsp;</p>

<p>For the much of his premiership, Johnson saw his relationship with Sunak as that of a 'mentor' and 'mentee' and when Sunak eventually quit as secretary of exchequer on July 5, 2022, 'without even a text', Johnson was aghast.</p>

<p>"Who the f--k does he think he is?," Johnson is reported to have said with a seething reaction in a new book called 'The Right To Rule', authored by Ben Riley-Smith, the political editor of The Telegraph newspaper.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The author claimed that Sunak began preparing ground for his premiership bid much before February 2023, when Sue Gray's initial investigation findings about Partygate scandal indicted Johnson of violating Covid restrictions to host parties at his official prime ministerial residences.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"One such indicator came in late autumn 2021, when a special adviser to then Northern Ireland Secretary Brandon Lewis overheard the Chancellor’s inner team in a Westminster pub discussing the shape of a Sunak premiership. ‘They were literally plotting out who they thought should be in various positions in the Cabinet,’ said a source familiar with what was heard," claims the book, an excerpt of which was published in The Telegraph.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The timeline of this claim is significant.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The alleged discussions related to Sunak's premiership occurred even before December 23, 2023, when 'ReadyforRishi' domain name was registered online, the earliest previously reported indication of Sunak's intent to canvass support for his potential premiership. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, for Boris Johnson who was still the Prime Minister then, Sunak's potential plans of succession continued to create waves of political&nbsp;discomfort.</p>

<p>"One wild and unsubstantiated rumour he voiced was that Sunak’s father-in-law, Indian billionaire Narayana Murthy, had Dominic Cummings on a retainer," the book claims, while referring to British political strategist who served as Chief Advisor to British Prime Minister Boris Johnson from July 2019 to November 2020.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/boris-johnson-believed-narayana-murthy-was-helping-rishi-sunak-to-become-uk-pm-reveals-new-book-636519">Boris Johnson 'believed' Narayana Murthy was helping Rishi Sunak to become UK PM, claims new book</a></strong></p>

<p>Rishi Sunak, along with the Tories, is now out of power after July 4 elections. But the battle between a 'mentee' and 'mentor' for premiership continues to underscore the legacy of two Tory leaders.<br />
<br />
<em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


In June 2019, when the European corridors of power were still reeling under the impact of the UK's decision to withdraw from the European Union, the ruling Conservatives were clear that Prime Minister Theresa May's successor should be a "true Brexiteer".

In June 2019, when the European corridors of power were still reeling under the impact of the UK's decision to withdraw from the European Union, the ruling Conservatives were clear that Prime Minister Theresa May's successor should be a "true Brexiteer". On July 24, 2019, Boris Johnson entered 10, Downing Street, promising to defy 'the doubters, the doomsters, the gloomsters' by completing Brexit with a deal by October 31 that year. Also watch | Curtains down at 14 years of Conservative-led government × The Tories under Johnson called, and won the elections held in December 2019, essentially on one issue: Brexit. The Brexit finally came into effect on January 31, 2020 under new Prime Minister Boris Johnson at the cusp of Covid pandemic. About 41 months later, after a spree of controversies including the partygate scandal, Johnson was forced to resign. Succeeded by Liz Truss whose tenure infamously lasted less than that of a Lettuce, Rishi Sunak took over as UK Prime Minister in October 2022. For the much of his premiership, Johnson saw his relationship with Sunak as that of a 'mentor' and 'mentee' and when Sunak eventually quit as secretary of exchequer on July 5, 2022, 'without even a text', Johnson was aghast. "Who the f--k does he think he is?," Johnson is reported to have said with a seething reaction in a new book called 'The Right To Rule', authored by Ben Riley-Smith, the political editor of The Telegraph newspaper. The author claimed that Sunak began preparing ground for his premiership bid much before February 2023, when Sue Gray's initial investigation findings about Partygate scandal indicted Johnson of violating Covid restrictions to host parties at his official prime ministerial residences. "One such indicator came in late autumn 2021, when a special adviser to then Northern Ireland Secretary Brandon Lewis overheard the Chancellor’s inner team in a Westminster pub discussing the shape of a Sunak premiership. ‘They were literally plotting out who they thought should be in various positions in the Cabinet,’ said a source familiar with what was heard," claims the book, an excerpt of which was published in The Telegraph. The timeline of this claim is significant. The alleged discussions related to Sunak's premiership occurred even before December 23, 2023, when 'ReadyforRishi' domain name was registered online, the earliest previously reported indication of Sunak's intent to canvass support for his potential premiership. Meanwhile, for Boris Johnson who was still the Prime Minister then, Sunak's potential plans of succession continued to create waves of political discomfort. "One wild and unsubstantiated rumour he voiced was that Sunak’s father-in-law, Indian billionaire Narayana Murthy, had Dominic Cummings on a retainer," the book claims, while referring to British political strategist who served as Chief Advisor to British Prime Minister Boris Johnson from July 2019 to November 2020. Also read | Boris Johnson 'believed' Narayana Murthy was helping Rishi Sunak to become UK PM, claims new book Rishi Sunak, along with the Tories, is now out of power after July 4 elections. But the battle between a 'mentee' and 'mentor' for premiership continues to underscore the legacy of two Tory leaders. (With inputs from agencies)

Did Boris get the last laugh as Rishi exits Downing Street after severe poll drub?

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