Ukraine on Saturday (Feb 3) bombarded a bakery in the occupied eastern city of Lysychansk, leaving dozens of civilians trapped under the rubble, said the Moscow-installed governor of the occupied Lugansk region.

"The Ukrainian army shelled a bakery in Lysychansk, there are civilians under the rubble," Leonid Pasechnik, a Russian occupation official, said on Telegram. "Three people were taken to hospital. There could be dozens more under the rubble," he further said.&nbsp;

Russia's emergency ministry said that at least 20 people had been killed in the incident and several were injured.

"In Lysychansk, employees of the Russian emergency ministry pulled out 20 bodies of victims from under the rubble," the Russian ministry said on social media, posting a video of rescuers working in the dark.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/middle-east-crisis-deepens-as-nearly-40-killed-in-us-strikes-on-iran-backed-groups-in-iraq-and-syria-686682">Middle East crisis deepens as US strikes Iran-backed groups in Iraq and Syria</a>

<h2>Drone attack sets Russian refinery on fire, says governor</h2>

A massive blaze broke out after a drone attack, claimed by Ukraine, hit a major Russian oil refinery in the southwestern Volgograd region overnight.

The attack, as per the news agency AFP, was "organised" by Kyiv's SBU security service.

"Last night, the air defence and electronic jamming repelled an attack by drones in the Volgograd region's Kalachyovsky and Zakanalye districts," governor Andrei Bocharov said on Telegram.

"A fire started at the Volgograd refinery after one of the downed drones fell," he said, adding that the fire service had already brought the blaze under control by the start of the morning.

However, Bocharov said that no one was hurt in the incident.

Russian emergency services later told local media that the blaze had been put out.

"The fire at the refinery in Volgograd was 'organised' by SBU drones," a source in the Ukranian defence sector told AFP. &nbsp;

Russian energy giant Lukoil, which operates the refinery, says on its website that it is "the biggest producer of oil products in the federal South district", which covers eight regions of southwest Russia.

(With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine on Saturday (Feb 3) bombarded a bakery in the occupied eastern city of Lysychansk, leaving dozens of civilians trapped under the rubble, said the Moscow-installed governor of the occupied Lugansk region.

Ukraine on Saturday (Feb 3) bombarded a bakery in the occupied eastern city of Lysychansk, leaving dozens of civilians trapped under the rubble, said the Moscow-installed governor of the occupied Lugansk region. "The Ukrainian army shelled a bakery in Lysychansk, there are civilians under the rubble," Leonid Pasechnik, a Russian occupation official, said on Telegram. "Three people were taken to hospital. There could be dozens more under the rubble," he further said. Russia's emergency ministry said that at least 20 people had been killed in the incident and several were injured. "In Lysychansk, employees of the Russian emergency ministry pulled out 20 bodies of victims from under the rubble," the Russian ministry said on social media, posting a video of rescuers working in the dark. Also Read: Middle East crisis deepens as US strikes Iran-backed groups in Iraq and Syria Drone attack sets Russian refinery on fire, says governor A massive blaze broke out after a drone attack, claimed by Ukraine, hit a major Russian oil refinery in the southwestern Volgograd region overnight. The attack, as per the news agency AFP, was "organised" by Kyiv's SBU security service. "Last night, the air defence and electronic jamming repelled an attack by drones in the Volgograd region's Kalachyovsky and Zakanalye districts," governor Andrei Bocharov said on Telegram. "A fire started at the Volgograd refinery after one of the downed drones fell," he said, adding that the fire service had already brought the blaze under control by the start of the morning. However, Bocharov said that no one was hurt in the incident. Russian emergency services later told local media that the blaze had been put out. "The fire at the refinery in Volgograd was 'organised' by SBU drones," a source in the Ukranian defence sector told AFP. Russian energy giant Lukoil, which operates the refinery, says on its website that it is "the biggest producer of oil products in the federal South district", which covers eight regions of southwest Russia. (With inputs from agencies)

Ukrainian shelling of bakery in occupied east claims lives of at least 20, says Russia

Senegal's President Macky Sall on Saturday announced the indefinite postponement of a presidential election scheduled for February 25, provoking anger from opposition figures and a ministerial resignation.

The presidential decree postponing the vote, which would have decided his successor, came just hours before official campaigning was due to start.

In an address to the nation, Sall said he had made the decision because of a dispute between the National Assembly and the Constitutional Court over the rejection of candidates.&nbsp;

Lawmakers are investigating two Constitutional Council judges whose integrity in the election process has been questioned.

"I will begin an open national dialogue to bring together the conditions for a free, transparent and inclusive election," Sall added, without giving a new date.

Under the country's election code, at least 80 days must pass between the publication of the decree and the election, so the earliest it could now be held is late April.

Just hours after Sall's announcement, Abdou Latif Coulibaly, the Secretary General of the government who has acted as its spokesman, announced his resignation.

He was quitting because he wanted to have "full and complete freedom" to defend his political convictions, Coulibaly said in a statement.

This is the first time a Senegalese presidential election has been postponed and adds to the growing political tension in the country.

<h2>'High treason'</h2>

The US State Department urged Senegal to "swiftly" set a date for a "timely, free and fair election" in a post on X, formerly Twitter.

"We acknowledge allegations of irregularities, but we are deeply concerned about the disruption to the presidential electoral calendar," the department's Bureau of African Affairs posted.

A November 2023 decree signed by Sall had set the election for February 25, with 20 candidates in the running but two major opposition figures excluded.

Sall reiterated Saturday that he would not be a candidate.

But one opposition leader, Thierno Alassane Sall, denounced what he called "high treason towards the Republic" in a post on X, and called on "patriots and republicans" to oppose it.

El Malick Ndiaye, former spokesman of a disbanded opposition party once led by the now-jailed Ousmane Sonko, also denounced the decision.

"This is not a delay of the election, but a cancellation pure and simple," he wrote on Facebook.

Another opposition figure, former mayor of Dakar Khalifa Sall, called for pro-democratic forces to unite against the decision.

"All of Senegal must stand up," he told journalists. "All democratic political forces and civil society should unite so that this project does not succeed."

On X, Sall, who is not related to the president, denounced "a constitutional coup" by a leader who "dreams of eternity".

<h2>Excluded candidates</h2>

President Sall had designated Prime Minister Amadou Ba from his party as his would-be successor after announcing he would not run for a third term.

But with his party split over his candidacy, Ba faced possible defeat in the elections.

The Constitutional Council has excluded dozens of candidates from the vote, including Sonko, who has been jailed since July 2023, and Karim Wade, son of former president Abdoulaye Wade.

Wade's supporters in the National Assembly called for a parliamentary inquiry into the partiality of two judges on the Constitutional Court.

That motion was passed by the Assembly on January 31, with some members of Sall's party supporting it.

Wade had been barred from running because he allegedly also holds French citizenship, a decision he denounced as "scandalous".&nbsp;

On Friday, Rose Wardini, one of only two women in the approved list of candidates, was detained on accusations of having concealed her French citizenship, according to judicial sources.

Senegal's President Macky Sall on Saturday announced the indefinite postponement of a presidential election scheduled for February 25, provoking anger from opposition figures and a ministerial resignation.

Senegal's President Macky Sall on Saturday announced the indefinite postponement of a presidential election scheduled for February 25, provoking anger from opposition figures and a ministerial resignation. The presidential decree postponing the vote, which would have decided his successor, came just hours before official campaigning was due to start. In an address to the nation, Sall said he had made the decision because of a dispute between the National Assembly and the Constitutional Court over the rejection of candidates. Lawmakers are investigating two Constitutional Council judges whose integrity in the election process has been questioned. "I will begin an open national dialogue to bring together the conditions for a free, transparent and inclusive election," Sall added, without giving a new date. Under the country's election code, at least 80 days must pass between the publication of the decree and the election, so the earliest it could now be held is late April. Just hours after Sall's announcement, Abdou Latif Coulibaly, the Secretary General of the government who has acted as its spokesman, announced his resignation. He was quitting because he wanted to have "full and complete freedom" to defend his political convictions, Coulibaly said in a statement. This is the first time a Senegalese presidential election has been postponed and adds to the growing political tension in the country. 'High treason' The US State Department urged Senegal to "swiftly" set a date for a "timely, free and fair election" in a post on X, formerly Twitter. "We acknowledge allegations of irregularities, but we are deeply concerned about the disruption to the presidential electoral calendar," the department's Bureau of African Affairs posted. A November 2023 decree signed by Sall had set the election for February 25, with 20 candidates in the running but two major opposition figures excluded. Sall reiterated Saturday that he would not be a candidate. But one opposition leader, Thierno Alassane Sall, denounced what he called "high treason towards the Republic" in a post on X, and called on "patriots and republicans" to oppose it. El Malick Ndiaye, former spokesman of a disbanded opposition party once led by the now-jailed Ousmane Sonko, also denounced the decision. "This is not a delay of the election, but a cancellation pure and simple," he wrote on Facebook. Another opposition figure, former mayor of Dakar Khalifa Sall, called for pro-democratic forces to unite against the decision. "All of Senegal must stand up," he told journalists. "All democratic political forces and civil society should unite so that this project does not succeed." On X, Sall, who is not related to the president, denounced "a constitutional coup" by a leader who "dreams of eternity". Excluded candidates President Sall had designated Prime Minister Amadou Ba from his party as his would-be successor after announcing he would not run for a third term. But with his party split over his candidacy, Ba faced possible defeat in the elections. The Constitutional Council has excluded dozens of candidates from the vote, including Sonko, who has been jailed since July 2023, and Karim Wade, son of former president Abdoulaye Wade. Wade's supporters in the National Assembly called for a parliamentary inquiry into the partiality of two judges on the Constitutional Court. That motion was passed by the Assembly on January 31, with some members of Sall's party supporting it. Wade had been barred from running because he allegedly also holds French citizenship, a decision he denounced as "scandalous". On Friday, Rose Wardini, one of only two women in the approved list of candidates, was detained on accusations of having concealed her French citizenship, according to judicial sources.

Senegal president postpones presidential election

Israel on Saturday (Feb 3) said that it had struck over 50 targets linked to the Iranian-backed Lebanese movement Hezbollah since the war broke out in the Gaza Strip on October 7, 2023.

Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari, the top military spokesperson, made the comments during a briefing that focused mostly on countering Hezbollah attacks that were launched in support of Hamas.&nbsp;

"Everywhere Hezbollah is, we shall be. We will take action everywhere required in the Middle East," Hagari said.

Israeli forces have so far attacked 34,000 Hezbollah targets in Lebanon, including 120 border surveillance outposts, 40 caches of missiles and other weaponry and more than 40 command centres, said Hagari.

He stated that the number of enemies killed in the attack was over 200.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/red-sea-crisis-us-military-says-it-destroyed-drones-near-yemen-686759">Red Sea crisis: US military says it destroyed drones near Yemen</a>

<h2>'No deal yet on Gaza truce', says senior Hamas official</h2>

Meanwhile, a senior Hamas official on Saturday said that a final deal had not yet been reached over pausing the four-month-long war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group in the Gaza Strip.

Osama Hamdan, a top Hamas official in Lebanon said that the leaders of the militant group were reviewing the proposal by top officials from Israel, Qatar, Egypt and the United States, but more time was needed to "announce our position".

He told a news conference that his movement "has repeatedly said" it was "open to discussing any initiative... putting an end to this barbaric aggression against our Palestinian people".

He confirmed that the group had received the proposal that was drafted by top leaders in Paris, however, stated that an agreement had not yet been reached and that the plan was missing certain details.

"We will announce our position" soon, "based on... our desire to put an end as quickly as possible to the aggression that our people suffer", he added.

<h2>US military says it destroyed drones near Yemen</h2>

In another development from the Red Sea crisis, the United States on Saturday (Feb 3) launched strikes targeting six anti-ship missiles belonging to Yemen's Houthi rebel group, according to the US military.

The missiles were "prepared to launch against ships in the Red Sea. US forces identified the cruise missiles in Huthi-controlled areas of Yemen and determined they presented an imminent threat to US Navy ships and merchant vessels," Central Command (CENTCOM) said in a post on social media.&nbsp;

Earlier in the day, CENTCOM said that the American forces had shot down eight drones near Yemen on Friday (Feb 2) and destroyed four more before they could be launched.

It further said that the ones hit on the ground belonged to the Iran-backed Houthi rebel group. However, CENTCOM did not specify a country or group linked to the missiles shot out of the air.

Anger over Israel's destructive campaign in Gaza, which began on October 7 in response to unprecedented attacks by Hamas, has spread throughout the Middle East.

(With inputs from agencies)

Israel on Saturday (Feb 3) said that it had struck over 50 targets linked to the Iranian-backed Lebanese movement Hezbollah since the war broke out in the Gaza Strip on October 7, 2023.

Israel on Saturday (Feb 3) said that it had struck over 50 targets linked to the Iranian-backed Lebanese movement Hezbollah since the war broke out in the Gaza Strip on October 7, 2023. Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari, the top military spokesperson, made the comments during a briefing that focused mostly on countering Hezbollah attacks that were launched in support of Hamas. "Everywhere Hezbollah is, we shall be. We will take action everywhere required in the Middle East," Hagari said. Israeli forces have so far attacked 34,000 Hezbollah targets in Lebanon, including 120 border surveillance outposts, 40 caches of missiles and other weaponry and more than 40 command centres, said Hagari. He stated that the number of enemies killed in the attack was over 200. Also read: Red Sea crisis: US military says it destroyed drones near Yemen 'No deal yet on Gaza truce', says senior Hamas official Meanwhile, a senior Hamas official on Saturday said that a final deal had not yet been reached over pausing the four-month-long war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group in the Gaza Strip. Osama Hamdan, a top Hamas official in Lebanon said that the leaders of the militant group were reviewing the proposal by top officials from Israel, Qatar, Egypt and the United States, but more time was needed to "announce our position". He told a news conference that his movement "has repeatedly said" it was "open to discussing any initiative... putting an end to this barbaric aggression against our Palestinian people". He confirmed that the group had received the proposal that was drafted by top leaders in Paris, however, stated that an agreement had not yet been reached and that the plan was missing certain details. "We will announce our position" soon, "based on... our desire to put an end as quickly as possible to the aggression that our people suffer", he added. US military says it destroyed drones near Yemen In another development from the Red Sea crisis, the United States on Saturday (Feb 3) launched strikes targeting six anti-ship missiles belonging to Yemen's Houthi rebel group, according to the US military. The missiles were "prepared to launch against ships in the Red Sea. US forces identified the cruise missiles in Huthi-controlled areas of Yemen and determined they presented an imminent threat to US Navy ships and merchant vessels," Central Command (CENTCOM) said in a post on social media. Earlier in the day, CENTCOM said that the American forces had shot down eight drones near Yemen on Friday (Feb 2) and destroyed four more before they could be launched. It further said that the ones hit on the ground belonged to the Iran-backed Houthi rebel group. However, CENTCOM did not specify a country or group linked to the missiles shot out of the air. Anger over Israel's destructive campaign in Gaza, which began on October 7 in response to unprecedented attacks by Hamas, has spread throughout the Middle East. (With inputs from agencies)

Over 50 Hezbollah targets hit in Syria since Oct 7, says Israel

The Enforcement Directorate approached Rouse Avenue Court and lodged a complaint against Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Saturday (Feb 3) for non-compliance with the summons issued to him in the Delhi liquor policy money laundering case.

The Delhi court after hearing the submissions on Saturday (Feb 7) decided on Feb 7 as the date to consider the latest complaint filed by ED and the hearing for the remaining submissions.

The complaint by ED before the Rouse Avenue court in New Delhi was filed under Section 190 (1)(a) Cr.P.C. r/w. Section 200 Cr.P.C., 1973 r/w. Section 174 IPC, 1860 r/w. Section 63 (4) of PMLA, 2002 for non-attendance in compliance with Section 50, PMLA, 2002.

The Delhi CM skipped the ED summons for the fifth time in connection with the money laundering probe related to irregularities in the Delhi excise policy 2021-22 case. The latest move by the agency comes after Kejriwal skipped the fourth summons on Jan 18.

Kejriwal has so far skipped four summons issued by the ED on Jan 18, Jan 3, Nov 2 and Dec 22, dubbing them "illegal and politically motivated".

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-punjabs-governor-resigns-in-a-sudden-move-cites-personal-reasons-686671">India: Punjab governor resigns in a sudden move, cites 'personal reasons'</a>

<h2>'Police doing drama', says Kejriwal</h2>

Meanwhile, after crime branch officials issued notice to Kejriwal in connection with AAP's allegations against the BJP of "poaching AAP MLAs", the Aam Aadmi Party chief said that the Delhi police, instead of stopping crime in the national capital, was doing drama on the instructions of "political masters", which he stated resulted in the increase of crime rate.

In a post on X, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said, "I sympathize with the crime branch police officer. What is their fault? Their job is to stop crime in Delhi. But instead of stopping crime, this kind of drama is being done. That is why crime is increasing so much in Delhi. Their political masters are asking me that which AAP MLA was being tried to poach? But you know more than me? You know everything. Why only Delhi, do you know which MLAs from other parties and which governments were toppled in the last few years across the country? Then why this drama?"

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
मुझे क्राइम ब्रांच के इस पुलिस ऑफिसर से सहानुभूति है। इनका क्या क़सूर है? इनका काम है दिल्ली में क्राइम रोकना। पर इनसे क्राइम रोकने की बजाय इस क़िस्म की नौटंकी करवाई जा रही है। इसीलिए दिल्ली में इतना क्राइम बढ़ रहा है। 
 
इनके पोलिटिकल आका मुझसे पूछ रहे हैं कि “आप” के किस किस MLA… <a href="https://t.co/vZegQRiizM">https://t.co/vZegQRiizM</a>
— Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) <a href="https://twitter.com/ArvindKejriwal/status/1753739334417621074?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 3, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

AAP has levied allegations against the ruling Bharatiya Janta Party of making an attempt to topple the elected Delhi government through a campaign called "Operation Lotus 2.0".

The Aam Aadmi Party leader Atishi claimed that the BJP had approached many AAP MLAs with bribes and threats with an aim to induce defection.

"BJP has started 'Operation Lotus 2.0', and is trying to topple the democratically elected AAP government in Delhi. 7 MLAs of the AAP have been contacted by the BJP, and have been told, that Arvind Kejriwal will be arrested soon, after which AAP MLAs will be rifted apart. They are in touch with 21 of our MLAs, using whom they aim to topple the Delhi government. Those 7 MLAs have been offered Rs 25 crores each. Operation Lotus is the tactic used by the BJP to come into power in states, where they are not democratically elected. Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka, Arunachal Pradesh, and Madhya Pradesh are examples," the AAP leader said.

(With the inputs from agencies)

The Enforcement Directorate approached Rouse Avenue Court and lodged a complaint against Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Saturday (Feb 3) for non-compliance with the summons issued to him in the Delhi liquor policy money laundering case.

The Enforcement Directorate approached Rouse Avenue Court and lodged a complaint against Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Saturday (Feb 3) for non-compliance with the summons issued to him in the Delhi liquor policy money laundering case. The Delhi court after hearing the submissions on Saturday (Feb 7) decided on Feb 7 as the date to consider the latest complaint filed by ED and the hearing for the remaining submissions. The complaint by ED before the Rouse Avenue court in New Delhi was filed under Section 190 (1)(a) Cr.P.C. r/w. Section 200 Cr.P.C., 1973 r/w. Section 174 IPC, 1860 r/w. Section 63 (4) of PMLA, 2002 for non-attendance in compliance with Section 50, PMLA, 2002. The Delhi CM skipped the ED summons for the fifth time in connection with the money laundering probe related to irregularities in the Delhi excise policy 2021-22 case. The latest move by the agency comes after Kejriwal skipped the fourth summons on Jan 18. Kejriwal has so far skipped four summons issued by the ED on Jan 18, Jan 3, Nov 2 and Dec 22, dubbing them "illegal and politically motivated". Also read: India: Punjab governor resigns in a sudden move, cites 'personal reasons' 'Police doing drama', says Kejriwal Meanwhile, after crime branch officials issued notice to Kejriwal in connection with AAP's allegations against the BJP of "poaching AAP MLAs", the Aam Aadmi Party chief said that the Delhi police, instead of stopping crime in the national capital, was doing drama on the instructions of "political masters", which he stated resulted in the increase of crime rate. In a post on X, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said, "I sympathize with the crime branch police officer. What is their fault? Their job is to stop crime in Delhi. But instead of stopping crime, this kind of drama is being done. That is why crime is increasing so much in Delhi. Their political masters are asking me that which AAP MLA was being tried to poach? But you know more than me? You know everything. Why only Delhi, do you know which MLAs from other parties and which governments were toppled in the last few years across the country? Then why this drama?" मुझे क्राइम ब्रांच के इस पुलिस ऑफिसर से सहानुभूति है। इनका क्या क़सूर है? इनका काम है दिल्ली में क्राइम रोकना। पर इनसे क्राइम रोकने की बजाय इस क़िस्म की नौटंकी करवाई जा रही है। इसीलिए दिल्ली में इतना क्राइम बढ़ रहा है। इनके पोलिटिकल आका मुझसे पूछ रहे हैं कि “आप” के किस किस MLA… https://t.co/vZegQRiizM — Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) February 3, 2024 × AAP has levied allegations against the ruling Bharatiya Janta Party of making an attempt to topple the elected Delhi government through a campaign called "Operation Lotus 2.0". The Aam Aadmi Party leader Atishi claimed that the BJP had approached many AAP MLAs with bribes and threats with an aim to induce defection. "BJP has started 'Operation Lotus 2.0', and is trying to topple the democratically elected AAP government in Delhi. 7 MLAs of the AAP have been contacted by the BJP, and have been told, that Arvind Kejriwal will be arrested soon, after which AAP MLAs will be rifted apart. They are in touch with 21 of our MLAs, using whom they aim to topple the Delhi government. Those 7 MLAs have been offered Rs 25 crores each. Operation Lotus is the tactic used by the BJP to come into power in states, where they are not democratically elected. Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka, Arunachal Pradesh, and Madhya Pradesh are examples," the AAP leader said. (With the inputs from agencies)

Enforcement Directorate files complaint against Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal after he skips 5th summons

A truck loaded with gas canisters exploded in Kenya's capital Nairobi on Friday (Feb 2), setting off a massive fire that claimed the lives of three people and wounded 280 others, according to the authorities.

The explosion sent a huge fireball into the night sky close to the residential area in the southeast of Nairobi, shattering several buildings and damaging vehicles. The blaze also engulfed a nearby textile and garment warehouse.

The government said that three people had lost their lives in the blast at a gas refilling plant and 280 more were being treated at hospitals around Nairobi.&nbsp;

The Kenyan Red Cross released a statement saying that several others were being treated at a triage point.

"The fire caught up with me from almost one kilometre away as I was escaping," survivor Edwin Machio told news agency Reuters.

"The flames from the explosion knocked me down and burnt me on my neck," he added, taking off his shirt to show burnt flesh on his shoulders and upper arms.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-announces-massive-hike-in-h-1b-and-other-visa-fees-heres-all-you-need-to-know-686186">US announces massive hike in H-1B and other visa fees. Here's all you need to know</a>

<h2>Inquiry launched</h2>

The authorities have launched an inquiry into the incident to determine the cause of the explosion.

Reportedly, Douglas Kanja, Deputy Inspector of Police, said a guard at the site where the blast incident occurred, had been arrested and that the probe was underway.

As per the news agency AFP, residents said that they were fearful of such an incident taking place as the gas trucks were arriving almost every day in the Mradi area.

Kenyan government spokesman Isaac Maigua Mwaura said that the residential houses in the neighbourhood also caught fire with some still inside their homes.

The explosion ignited a "huge ball of fire that spread widely", he said in a statement. &nbsp;

"Consequently, the inferno further damaged several vehicles and commercial properties, including many small and medium-sized businesses," he added.

"Sadly, residential houses in the neighbourhood also caught fire, with a good number of residents still inside as it was late at night," Mwaura further said.

Kenya's Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) released a statement on Friday (Feb 2) stating that it had last year denied permission at least three times for the construction of a liquefied petroleum gas storage and filling plant at the site of the explosion. &nbsp;

"All applications were rejected as they did not meet the set criteria for an LPG storage and filling plant in that area," EPRA said in a statement.

"The main reason for the rejection was the failure of the designs to meet the safety distances stipulated," it said, noting "the high population density around the proposed site," it added.

(With inputs from agencies)

A truck loaded with gas canisters exploded in Kenya's capital Nairobi on Friday (Feb 2), setting off a massive fire that claimed the lives of three people and wounded 280 others, according to the authorities.

A truck loaded with gas canisters exploded in Kenya's capital Nairobi on Friday (Feb 2), setting off a massive fire that claimed the lives of three people and wounded 280 others, according to the authorities. The explosion sent a huge fireball into the night sky close to the residential area in the southeast of Nairobi, shattering several buildings and damaging vehicles. The blaze also engulfed a nearby textile and garment warehouse. The government said that three people had lost their lives in the blast at a gas refilling plant and 280 more were being treated at hospitals around Nairobi. The Kenyan Red Cross released a statement saying that several others were being treated at a triage point. "The fire caught up with me from almost one kilometre away as I was escaping," survivor Edwin Machio told news agency Reuters. "The flames from the explosion knocked me down and burnt me on my neck," he added, taking off his shirt to show burnt flesh on his shoulders and upper arms. Also read: US announces massive hike in H-1B and other visa fees. Here's all you need to know Inquiry launched The authorities have launched an inquiry into the incident to determine the cause of the explosion. Reportedly, Douglas Kanja, Deputy Inspector of Police, said a guard at the site where the blast incident occurred, had been arrested and that the probe was underway. As per the news agency AFP, residents said that they were fearful of such an incident taking place as the gas trucks were arriving almost every day in the Mradi area. Kenyan government spokesman Isaac Maigua Mwaura said that the residential houses in the neighbourhood also caught fire with some still inside their homes. The explosion ignited a "huge ball of fire that spread widely", he said in a statement. "Consequently, the inferno further damaged several vehicles and commercial properties, including many small and medium-sized businesses," he added. "Sadly, residential houses in the neighbourhood also caught fire, with a good number of residents still inside as it was late at night," Mwaura further said. Kenya's Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) released a statement on Friday (Feb 2) stating that it had last year denied permission at least three times for the construction of a liquefied petroleum gas storage and filling plant at the site of the explosion. "All applications were rejected as they did not meet the set criteria for an LPG storage and filling plant in that area," EPRA said in a statement. "The main reason for the rejection was the failure of the designs to meet the safety distances stipulated," it said, noting "the high population density around the proposed site," it added. (With inputs from agencies)

Massive gas truck explosion leaves three dead in Kenya's Nairobi, injures nearly 300

Days after three US troops were killed in Jordan allegedly after attack by an Iraq-based and Iran-linked proxy militant group, the United States on Saturday (Feb 3) targeted a number of sites in both Iraq and Syria, pushing West Asia's edge of conflict further into the lines of war. At the time of filing this report, 40 militants have been killed in the US strikes. In other news, Pakistan's former prime minister Imran Khan and his wife Bushra Bibi were sentenced to seven years of imprisonment each by a Rawalpindi court in the "un-Islamic nikah" case on Saturday (Feb 3).

Click on the headlines to read more.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/middle-east-crisis-deepens-as-nearly-40-killed-in-us-strikes-on-iran-backed-groups-in-iraq-and-syria-686682">Middle East crisis deepens as US strikes Iran-backed groups in Iraq and Syria</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/03/409827-untitled-design-2024-02-03t172840620.png?imwidth=500" />

US President Joe Biden said that he directed the country's military to strike targets in Syria and Iraq.&nbsp;Washington ordered attack on&nbsp;"IRGC [Iran Revolutionary Guards Corps] and affiliated militia".&nbsp;The United States has some 900 troops in Syria and 2,500 in neighbouring Iraq as part of an international coalition against the Islamic State group, a jihadist organisation that once controlled swathes of both countries.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/imran-khan-bushra-bibi-sentenced-to-7-years-imprisonment-in-un-islamic-nikah-case-686675">Imran Khan, wife Bushra Bibi sentenced to 7 years in 'un-Islamic nikah' case</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/03/409824-untitled-design-2024-02-03t164437989.png?imwidth=500" />

The case is related to their marriage which took place during Bushra Bibi's Iddat period. The verdict was announced by senior civil judge Qudratullah after the complaint was filed by Bushra’s former husband Khawar Fareed Maneka, who called their marriage “un-Islamic and illegal”, in a makeshift court located at the Adiala district jail.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/honour-for-my-principles-advani-reacts-as-pm-modi-announces-bharat-ratna-honour-686706">'Honour for my principles': Advani reacts as PM Modi announces Bharat Ratna</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/03/409843-untitled-design-2024-02-03t191735356.png?imwidth=500" />

Less than two weeks after the temple of Lord Ram was consecrated at his birthplace in Ayodhya, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced that Bharatiya Janata Party co-founder Lal Krishna Advani will be conferred with the country's top civilian honour, the Bharat Ratna.&nbsp;The 96-year-old veteran greeted media and people at his New Delhi residence shortly after the announcement was made.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/michelle-oneill-hails-new-dawn-for-n-ireland-after-appointed-first-minister-686737">Michelle O'Neill hails 'new dawn' for N Ireland after appointed first minister</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/03/409862-succession-2024-02-03t215427943.jpg?imwidth=500" />

Sinn Fein's Michelle O'Neill on Saturday hailed her "historic" appointment as Northern Ireland's new first minister, the first time a pro-Irish unity nationalist has led the UK territory's devolved government.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chile-declares-state-of-emergency-as-10-people-feared-dead-in-massive-forest-fires-686717">Chile declares state of emergency as 10 people feared dead in forest fires</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/03/409851-succession-2024-02-03t195921368.jpg?imwidth=500" />

The Chile government on Friday (Feb 3) declared a state of emergency after a massive, rapidly expanding wildfire engulfed nearly 480 hectares encircling a residential area in the central Valparaiso region threatening hundreds of homes.&nbsp;The officials fear that the forest fires have claimed the lives of 10 people.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/e-jean-carrolls-lawyer-says-trump-used-coded-version-of-c-word-against-her-686678">E Jean Carroll's lawyer says Trump used coded version of C-word against her</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/03/409825-untitled-design-2024-02-03t165858432.png?imwidth=500" />

American writer E Jean Carroll's lawyer Roberta Kapalan has said that former United States president Donald Trump used a coded version of the C-word (C**t) against her during a deposition before she helped Carroll win the verdict in her defamation case against him. Kaplan made this remark during a podcast,&nbsp;reported&nbsp;The Guardian on Friday (Feb 2).

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-many-people-injured-in-knife-attack-at-railway-station-in-paris-suspected-arrested-686625">Three injured in knife attack at major railway station in Paris, suspect arrested</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/03/409805-2024-02-03t085557z1lynxmpek12028rtroptp4france-security.JPG?imwidth=500" />

Three people were injured in a knife attack at a major railway station in Paris on Saturday (Feb 3). According to a report by the news agency AFP, the attack took place at the Gare de Lyon railway station. The attack occurred at 8 am local time leaving one person with serious injuries while two others were mildly&nbsp;wounded.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/boss-of-one-of-italys-most-violent-mafia-captured-in-france-686686">Boss of one of Italy's most violent mafia captured in France</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/03/409830-untitled-design-2024-02-03t180146592.png?imwidth=500" />

A fugitive boss of one of Italy's most violent mafia has been captured in France, the governments of both countries said on Friday (Feb 2). Marco Raduano was detained on the French island of Corsica, a report by the news agency AFP said. Raduano is on Europol's list of Europe's most wanted criminals. Italian authorities on Friday also announced the detention of Raduano's close aide Gianluigi Troiano, who was picked up near Granada in southern Spain.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-v-eng-dont-overhype-his-achievements-let-him-enjoy-his-cricket-gambhir-on-jaiswals-209-686733">IND v ENG: Don’t overhype his achievements, let him enjoy his cricket - Gambhir on Jaiswal’s 209</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/03/409860-untitled-design-2024-02-03t210403244.png?imwidth=500" />

Former opener Gautam Gambhir has asked the Indian fans not to overhype Yashasvi Jaiswal’s 209 in the first innings of the Vizag Test against England. Gambhir - the last Indian left-hander to complete a Test double ton (in 2008 against Australia), urged everyone to let Jaiswal enjoy his cricket instead of putting pressure on him.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-punjabs-governor-resigns-in-a-sudden-move-cites-personal-reasons-686671">India: Punjab governor resigns in a sudden move, cites 'personal reasons'</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/03/409820-untitled-design-2024-02-03t162200246.png?imwidth=500" />

In a sudden move, the governor of the Indian state of Punjab Banwarilal Purohit resigned citing “personal reasons and certain other commitments". The resignation of Purohit came a day after he met Indian Union Home Minister Amit Shah in New Delhi.

Days after three US troops were killed in Jordan allegedly after attack by an Iraq-based and Iran-linked proxy militant group, the United States on Saturday (Feb 3) targeted a number of sites in both Iraq and Syria, pushing West Asia's edge of conflict further into the lines of war.

Days after three US troops were killed in Jordan allegedly after attack by an Iraq-based and Iran-linked proxy militant group, the United States on Saturday (Feb 3) targeted a number of sites in both Iraq and Syria, pushing West Asia's edge of conflict further into the lines of war. At the time of filing this report, 40 militants have been killed in the US strikes. In other news, Pakistan's former prime minister Imran Khan and his wife Bushra Bibi were sentenced to seven years of imprisonment each by a Rawalpindi court in the "un-Islamic nikah" case on Saturday (Feb 3). Click on the headlines to read more. Middle East crisis deepens as US strikes Iran-backed groups in Iraq and Syria US President Joe Biden said that he directed the country's military to strike targets in Syria and Iraq. Washington ordered attack on "IRGC [Iran Revolutionary Guards Corps] and affiliated militia". The United States has some 900 troops in Syria and 2,500 in neighbouring Iraq as part of an international coalition against the Islamic State group, a jihadist organisation that once controlled swathes of both countries. Imran Khan, wife Bushra Bibi sentenced to 7 years in 'un-Islamic nikah' case The case is related to their marriage which took place during Bushra Bibi's Iddat period. The verdict was announced by senior civil judge Qudratullah after the complaint was filed by Bushra’s former husband Khawar Fareed Maneka, who called their marriage “un-Islamic and illegal”, in a makeshift court located at the Adiala district jail. 'Honour for my principles': Advani reacts as PM Modi announces Bharat Ratna Less than two weeks after the temple of Lord Ram was consecrated at his birthplace in Ayodhya, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced that Bharatiya Janata Party co-founder Lal Krishna Advani will be conferred with the country's top civilian honour, the Bharat Ratna. The 96-year-old veteran greeted media and people at his New Delhi residence shortly after the announcement was made. Michelle O'Neill hails 'new dawn' for N Ireland after appointed first minister Sinn Fein's Michelle O'Neill on Saturday hailed her "historic" appointment as Northern Ireland's new first minister, the first time a pro-Irish unity nationalist has led the UK territory's devolved government. Chile declares state of emergency as 10 people feared dead in forest fires The Chile government on Friday (Feb 3) declared a state of emergency after a massive, rapidly expanding wildfire engulfed nearly 480 hectares encircling a residential area in the central Valparaiso region threatening hundreds of homes. The officials fear that the forest fires have claimed the lives of 10 people. E Jean Carroll's lawyer says Trump used coded version of C-word against her American writer E Jean Carroll's lawyer Roberta Kapalan has said that former United States president Donald Trump used a coded version of the C-word (C**t) against her during a deposition before she helped Carroll win the verdict in her defamation case against him. Kaplan made this remark during a podcast, reported The Guardian on Friday (Feb 2). Three injured in knife attack at major railway station in Paris, suspect arrested Three people were injured in a knife attack at a major railway station in Paris on Saturday (Feb 3). According to a report by the news agency AFP, the attack took place at the Gare de Lyon railway station. The attack occurred at 8 am local time leaving one person with serious injuries while two others were mildly wounded. Boss of one of Italy's most violent mafia captured in France A fugitive boss of one of Italy's most violent mafia has been captured in France, the governments of both countries said on Friday (Feb 2). Marco Raduano was detained on the French island of Corsica, a report by the news agency AFP said. Raduano is on Europol's list of Europe's most wanted criminals. Italian authorities on Friday also announced the detention of Raduano's close aide Gianluigi Troiano, who was picked up near Granada in southern Spain. IND v ENG: Don’t overhype his achievements, let him enjoy his cricket - Gambhir on Jaiswal’s 209 Former opener Gautam Gambhir has asked the Indian fans not to overhype Yashasvi Jaiswal’s 209 in the first innings of the Vizag Test against England. Gambhir - the last Indian left-hander to complete a Test double ton (in 2008 against Australia), urged everyone to let Jaiswal enjoy his cricket instead of putting pressure on him. India: Punjab governor resigns in a sudden move, cites 'personal reasons' In a sudden move, the governor of the Indian state of Punjab Banwarilal Purohit resigned citing “personal reasons and certain other commitments". The resignation of Purohit came a day after he met Indian Union Home Minister Amit Shah in New Delhi.

Top 10 news: US strikes Iran-backed groups in Iraq & Syria, Imran Khan and wife sentenced to 7 years, and more

United States on Friday (Feb 2) killed at least 18 pro-Iran fighters in eastern Syria, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights war monitor released a statement saying.

"At least 18 pro-Iran fighters have been killed" in air strikes on Syria's east, five of them in Deir Ezzor, the monitor said.

This comes as US launched retaliatory air strikes against Iran's Revolutionary Guards and Tehran-affiliated groups in Iraq and Syria after a fatal attack in Jordan claimed the lives of three US troops and wounded nearly 40 others.

The US military released a statement saying that the air offensive struck targets including command and control centers, rockets, missiles and drone storage facilities, as well as logistics and munition supply chain facilities.

According to the military, the strikes hit more than 85 targets with more than 125 munitions.

They targeted the Quds Force, which is the foreign espionage and paramilitary arm of the IRGC that greatly exerts influence on its allied militia across the Middle East, from Lebanon to Iraq and Yemen to Syria.&nbsp;

Syrian state media also reported that an "American aggression" on sites in its desert areas and at the Syrian-Iraqi border on Friday led to multiple casualties and injuries.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/did-us-fail-to-avert-jordan-attack-due-to-drone-related-confusion-684918">Also read: Did US fail to avert Jordan attack due to drone-related confusion?</a>

<h2>'US strikes to continue', says Biden</h2>

US President Joe Biden on Friday said that the retaliatory strikes will "continue."

"Our response began today. It will continue at times and places of our choosing," Biden said in a statement. "The United States does not seek conflict in the Middle East or anywhere else in the world. But let all those who might seek to do us harm know this: If you harm an American, we will respond."&nbsp;

On Sunday (Jan 28), a drone strike targeting a base in Jordan claimed the lives of three US troops.&nbsp;

After the attack, Biden condemned the Iran-backed militant groups and vowed to hold the perpetrators to account.

"While we are still gathering the facts of this attack, we know it was carried out by radical Iran-backed militant groups operating in Syria and Iraq," Biden said in a statement on the attack.

"We will carry on their commitment to fight terrorism. And have no doubt -- we will hold all those responsible to account at a time and in a manner of our choosing," he added.

The US president then called the three fallen service members “patriots,” praising their bravery and offering his grief, calling it a “despicable and wholly unjust attack.”&nbsp;

“Together, we will keep the sacred obligation we bear to their families. We will strive to be worthy of their honour and valour. We will carry on their commitment to fight terrorism,” the president said.

(With inputs from agencies)

United States on Friday (Feb 2) killed at least 18 pro-Iran fighters in eastern Syria, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights war monitor released a statement saying.

United States on Friday (Feb 2) killed at least 18 pro-Iran fighters in eastern Syria, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights war monitor released a statement saying. "At least 18 pro-Iran fighters have been killed" in air strikes on Syria's east, five of them in Deir Ezzor, the monitor said. This comes as US launched retaliatory air strikes against Iran's Revolutionary Guards and Tehran-affiliated groups in Iraq and Syria after a fatal attack in Jordan claimed the lives of three US troops and wounded nearly 40 others. The US military released a statement saying that the air offensive struck targets including command and control centers, rockets, missiles and drone storage facilities, as well as logistics and munition supply chain facilities. According to the military, the strikes hit more than 85 targets with more than 125 munitions. They targeted the Quds Force, which is the foreign espionage and paramilitary arm of the IRGC that greatly exerts influence on its allied militia across the Middle East, from Lebanon to Iraq and Yemen to Syria. Syrian state media also reported that an "American aggression" on sites in its desert areas and at the Syrian-Iraqi border on Friday led to multiple casualties and injuries. Also read: Did US fail to avert Jordan attack due to drone-related confusion? 'US strikes to continue', says Biden US President Joe Biden on Friday said that the retaliatory strikes will "continue." "Our response began today. It will continue at times and places of our choosing," Biden said in a statement. "The United States does not seek conflict in the Middle East or anywhere else in the world. But let all those who might seek to do us harm know this: If you harm an American, we will respond." On Sunday (Jan 28), a drone strike targeting a base in Jordan claimed the lives of three US troops. After the attack, Biden condemned the Iran-backed militant groups and vowed to hold the perpetrators to account. "While we are still gathering the facts of this attack, we know it was carried out by radical Iran-backed militant groups operating in Syria and Iraq," Biden said in a statement on the attack. "We will carry on their commitment to fight terrorism. And have no doubt -- we will hold all those responsible to account at a time and in a manner of our choosing," he added. The US president then called the three fallen service members “patriots,” praising their bravery and offering his grief, calling it a “despicable and wholly unjust attack.” “Together, we will keep the sacred obligation we bear to their families. We will strive to be worthy of their honour and valour. We will carry on their commitment to fight terrorism,” the president said. (With inputs from agencies)

US carries out retaliatory strikes in Iraq and Syria against Iran-linked targets

Former professional American football player, actor Carl Weathers, who rose to fame after playing the boxer Apollo Creed in the "Rocky" movies, passed away at the age of 76, his manager confirmed in a statement on Friday (Feb 2).

"We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Carl Weathers. He died peacefully in his sleep," said manager Matt Luber.

"Carl was an exceptional human being who lived an extraordinary life. Through his contributions to film, television, the arts and sports, he has left an indelible mark and is recognized worldwide and across generations," his family said.

In addition to starring opposite Arnold Schwarzenegger in the 1987 movie "Predator," Weathers most recently appeared on television in the Emmy-winning role of "The Mandalorian," a spin-off of "Star Wars."

Weathers shot to stardom after playing Apollo Creed opposite Sylvester Stallone's Rocky Balboa in the hit movies of the 1970s and 1980s.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/talk-show-queen-wendy-williams-cries-and-says-ive-no-money-in-official-trailer-of-where-is-wendy-williams-686423">Talk show queen Wendy Williams cries and says 'I've no money' in official trailer of Where Is Wendy Williams?</a>

He allegedly in his audition criticised Stallone’s acting and landed up a stint in the film.

“Sometimes the mistakes are the ones that get you the gig,” he said in 2015.

In the year 2020, while sharing anecdotes about playing the role of a boxer, he said it was extremely difficult for him to escape taking punches on the set.

“It was hard to escape taking punches on set. There were times when intentionally we went at each other. I was always concerned that if I hit Sly, threw a punch right, it might hurt. And there was no reason for that. And I think he was pretty much the same way.”

Weathers had a brief career playing for the Oakland Raiders of the National Football League.

He retired from the sport to pursue acting in the early 70s.

“I was bitten by the bug, as they say,” Weathers said in 2023. “On stage having people laugh at the good lines and applaud at the end – it’s pretty, pretty infectious. Once that bug gets inside you, it’s kind of hard to give it up.”

(WIth inputs from agencies)

Former professional American football player, actor Carl Weathers, who rose to fame after playing the boxer Apollo Creed in the "Rocky" movies, passed away at the age of 76, his manager confirmed in a statement on Friday (Feb 2).

Former professional American football player, actor Carl Weathers, who rose to fame after playing the boxer Apollo Creed in the "Rocky" movies, passed away at the age of 76, his manager confirmed in a statement on Friday (Feb 2). "We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Carl Weathers. He died peacefully in his sleep," said manager Matt Luber. "Carl was an exceptional human being who lived an extraordinary life. Through his contributions to film, television, the arts and sports, he has left an indelible mark and is recognized worldwide and across generations," his family said. In addition to starring opposite Arnold Schwarzenegger in the 1987 movie "Predator," Weathers most recently appeared on television in the Emmy-winning role of "The Mandalorian," a spin-off of "Star Wars." Weathers shot to stardom after playing Apollo Creed opposite Sylvester Stallone's Rocky Balboa in the hit movies of the 1970s and 1980s. Also read: Talk show queen Wendy Williams cries and says 'I've no money' in official trailer of Where Is Wendy Williams? He allegedly in his audition criticised Stallone’s acting and landed up a stint in the film. “Sometimes the mistakes are the ones that get you the gig,” he said in 2015. In the year 2020, while sharing anecdotes about playing the role of a boxer, he said it was extremely difficult for him to escape taking punches on the set. “It was hard to escape taking punches on set. There were times when intentionally we went at each other. I was always concerned that if I hit Sly, threw a punch right, it might hurt. And there was no reason for that. And I think he was pretty much the same way.” Weathers had a brief career playing for the Oakland Raiders of the National Football League. He retired from the sport to pursue acting in the early 70s. “I was bitten by the bug, as they say,” Weathers said in 2023. “On stage having people laugh at the good lines and applaud at the end – it’s pretty, pretty infectious. Once that bug gets inside you, it’s kind of hard to give it up.” (WIth inputs from agencies)

Carl Weathers, who played Apollo Creed opposite Rocky, passes away at the age of 76

Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis and her primary prosecutor on the 2020 election case Nathan Wade, admitted in the court documents about having a "personal" relationship.

However, Willis vehemently refuted allegations that she benefited financially from employing Wade.

Wade's declaration is included in the filing from Willis, who is leading the Georgia criminal investigation against former President Donald Trump and his aides regarding attempts to rig the 2020 election. Wade states that in 2022 he and Willis

The court filing by Willis, who is leading the Georgia criminal investigation against former President Donald Trump and his aides regarding attempts to rig the 2020 election, comprises a declaration from Wade that claims he and Willis in 2022, “developed a personal relationship in addition to our professional association and friendship.”&nbsp;

Wade denied that he had "shared with or provided to" Willis any of his gains from the case.

“The District Attorney received no funds or personal financial gain from my position as Special Prosecutor,” he said.

Willis also stated their “personal relationship … has never involved direct or indirect financial benefit to District Attorney Willis.”

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-navy-rescues-pakistani-iranian-crew-members-along-east-coast-of-somalia-686410">Indian Navy rescues Pakistani, Iranian crew members along east coast of Somalia</a>

“While the allegations raised in the various motions are salacious and garnered the media attention they were designed to obtain, none provide this Court with any basis upon which to order the relief they seek,” the filing stated.

Willis stated in her writing that she has no financial or personal conflicts of interest and that defence lawyers did not establish the legal foundation for disqualification, that “constitutes a legal basis for disqualification,” and that she “has made no public statements that warrant disqualification or judicial inquiry.”

The motion also upheld Wade, stating that the attacks on his qualifications are “factually inaccurate, unsupported, and malicious, in addition to providing no basis whatsoever to dismiss the indictment or disqualify Special Prosecutor Wade.”

“Defendants do not point to any action taken by the District Attorney or any of her staff that has been outside the character of an officer of the law specially charged to oversee either the special purpose grand jury’s investigation or the prosecution of these Defendants,” the motion reads.

“Instead, the motions attempt to cobble together entirely unremarkable circumstances of Special Prosecutor Wade’s appointment with completely irrelevant allegations about his personal family life into a manufactured conflict of interest on the part of the District Attorney. The effort must fail.”

(With inputs from agencies)

Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis and her primary prosecutor on the 2020 election case Nathan Wade, admitted in the court documents about having a "personal" relationship.

Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis and her primary prosecutor on the 2020 election case Nathan Wade, admitted in the court documents about having a "personal" relationship. However, Willis vehemently refuted allegations that she benefited financially from employing Wade. Wade's declaration is included in the filing from Willis, who is leading the Georgia criminal investigation against former President Donald Trump and his aides regarding attempts to rig the 2020 election. Wade states that in 2022 he and Willis The court filing by Willis, who is leading the Georgia criminal investigation against former President Donald Trump and his aides regarding attempts to rig the 2020 election, comprises a declaration from Wade that claims he and Willis in 2022, “developed a personal relationship in addition to our professional association and friendship.” Wade denied that he had "shared with or provided to" Willis any of his gains from the case. “The District Attorney received no funds or personal financial gain from my position as Special Prosecutor,” he said. Willis also stated their “personal relationship … has never involved direct or indirect financial benefit to District Attorney Willis.” Also read: Indian Navy rescues Pakistani, Iranian crew members along east coast of Somalia “While the allegations raised in the various motions are salacious and garnered the media attention they were designed to obtain, none provide this Court with any basis upon which to order the relief they seek,” the filing stated. Willis stated in her writing that she has no financial or personal conflicts of interest and that defence lawyers did not establish the legal foundation for disqualification, that “constitutes a legal basis for disqualification,” and that she “has made no public statements that warrant disqualification or judicial inquiry.” The motion also upheld Wade, stating that the attacks on his qualifications are “factually inaccurate, unsupported, and malicious, in addition to providing no basis whatsoever to dismiss the indictment or disqualify Special Prosecutor Wade.” “Defendants do not point to any action taken by the District Attorney or any of her staff that has been outside the character of an officer of the law specially charged to oversee either the special purpose grand jury’s investigation or the prosecution of these Defendants,” the motion reads. “Instead, the motions attempt to cobble together entirely unremarkable circumstances of Special Prosecutor Wade’s appointment with completely irrelevant allegations about his personal family life into a manufactured conflict of interest on the part of the District Attorney. The effort must fail.” (With inputs from agencies)

Fulton County DA Fani Willis acknowledges personal relationship with lead prosecutor in Trump Georgia case

A UK court on Friday (Feb 2) cleared climate activist Greta Thunberg, along with four other protesters, of a public order offence over staging a demonstration outside an oil and gas conference in 2023.

The London court judge denounced the conditions imposed by police at the time Thunberg was arrested calling them "unlawful" and said that she had no case to answer.

District Judge John Law, dismissing the cases against the prominent Swedish campaigner and four other activists arrested, ruled that police stationed in London at the time of the environmental protest in October 2023, attempted to impose "unlawful" conditions before officers arrested dozens of protesters.

"The prosecution evidence is insufficient for any reasonable court to properly convict and I exercise my discretion to acquit all five defendants," Law said, to applause and cheers from a packed public gallery.

Addressing the five defendants, he added: "You are all found not guilty of this offence."

Thunberg was charged with a public order offence after she was detained at a protest outside an annual gathering of energy industry figures in London.&nbsp;

In November last year, she had pleaded not guilty to violating a public order law alongside two demonstrators from the Fossil Free London (FFL) campaign group and two Greenpeace activists.

The 21-year-old campaigner and other defendants had faced a maximum fine of £2,500 ($3,177) if convicted.

Her lawyer, Raj Chada, said the case against them had been "rightly dismissed", arguing that the police stipulations "disproportionately interfered with our client's rights to free speech".&nbsp;

He added: "The government should stop prosecuting peaceful protesters and instead find ways to tackle the climate crisis."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/massive-blaze-gas-truck-explosion-leaves-three-dead-in-kenyas-nairobi-injures-nearly-300-686459">Massive gas truck explosion leaves three dead in Kenya's Nairobi, injures nearly 300</a>

<h2>Thunberg charged by UK police after being held over climate protest</h2>

Thunberg was charged with "failing to comply with a condition" by the UK police levied under Britain's Public Order Act that dealt with public assemblies and was released on bail.

London police said they imposed "conditions to prevent disruption to the public" after officers arrived at the protest site, which were then breached and further prompted the arrests.

"The protesters were asked to move from the road onto the pavement, which would enable them to continue with their demonstration without breaching the conditions," a police statement had said in October.

Several hundred protestors had gathered outside the InterContinental London Park Lane hotel during the "Oily Money Out" demonstration, organised by pressure groups Fossil Free London and Greenpeace, blocking all entrances to the venue.

Banging drums, the protesters chanted, "Stop the oil, stop the gas." The protesters argued that most industry profit is ploughed back into dirty energy that worsens climate change.

"Oil companies have racked up billions upon billions of profit, breaking records across the board last year. Oily CEOs took home multi-million-pound pay cheques," Fossil Free London said in a statement.

"The overwhelming majority of this money is going straight back into fossil fuel expansion, not the green energy they claim to support," the statement added.

(With inputs from agencies)

A UK court on Friday (Feb 2) cleared climate activist Greta Thunberg, along with four other protesters, of a public order offence over staging a demonstration outside an oil and gas conference in 2023.

A UK court on Friday (Feb 2) cleared climate activist Greta Thunberg, along with four other protesters, of a public order offence over staging a demonstration outside an oil and gas conference in 2023. The London court judge denounced the conditions imposed by police at the time Thunberg was arrested calling them "unlawful" and said that she had no case to answer. District Judge John Law, dismissing the cases against the prominent Swedish campaigner and four other activists arrested, ruled that police stationed in London at the time of the environmental protest in October 2023, attempted to impose "unlawful" conditions before officers arrested dozens of protesters. "The prosecution evidence is insufficient for any reasonable court to properly convict and I exercise my discretion to acquit all five defendants," Law said, to applause and cheers from a packed public gallery. Addressing the five defendants, he added: "You are all found not guilty of this offence." Thunberg was charged with a public order offence after she was detained at a protest outside an annual gathering of energy industry figures in London. In November last year, she had pleaded not guilty to violating a public order law alongside two demonstrators from the Fossil Free London (FFL) campaign group and two Greenpeace activists. The 21-year-old campaigner and other defendants had faced a maximum fine of £2,500 ($3,177) if convicted. Her lawyer, Raj Chada, said the case against them had been "rightly dismissed", arguing that the police stipulations "disproportionately interfered with our client's rights to free speech". He added: "The government should stop prosecuting peaceful protesters and instead find ways to tackle the climate crisis." Also read: Massive gas truck explosion leaves three dead in Kenya's Nairobi, injures nearly 300 Thunberg charged by UK police after being held over climate protest Thunberg was charged with "failing to comply with a condition" by the UK police levied under Britain's Public Order Act that dealt with public assemblies and was released on bail. London police said they imposed "conditions to prevent disruption to the public" after officers arrived at the protest site, which were then breached and further prompted the arrests. "The protesters were asked to move from the road onto the pavement, which would enable them to continue with their demonstration without breaching the conditions," a police statement had said in October. Several hundred protestors had gathered outside the InterContinental London Park Lane hotel during the "Oily Money Out" demonstration, organised by pressure groups Fossil Free London and Greenpeace, blocking all entrances to the venue. Banging drums, the protesters chanted, "Stop the oil, stop the gas." The protesters argued that most industry profit is ploughed back into dirty energy that worsens climate change. "Oil companies have racked up billions upon billions of profit, breaking records across the board last year. Oily CEOs took home multi-million-pound pay cheques," Fossil Free London said in a statement. "The overwhelming majority of this money is going straight back into fossil fuel expansion, not the green energy they claim to support," the statement added. (With inputs from agencies)

UK court dismisses case against Greta Thunberg and other activists over London protest

United States Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin on Thursday (Feb 1) apologised for hiding his prostate cancer diagnosis and hospitalisation from President Joe Biden and the government stating that he did not handle the situation rightly.

"I want to be crystal clear. We did not handle this right and I did not handle this right. I should have told the president about my cancer diagnosis. I should have also told my team and the American public and I take full responsibility," Austin said.

"I apologize to my teammates and to the American people," he added.

He then said that he had directly apologised to President Biden.

"I should have told the president about my cancer diagnosis," he told journalists. "I have apologised directly to President Biden."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-defense-secretary-lloyd-austin-makes-first-appearance-since-secret-hospitalisation-682926">Also read: US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin returns to Pentagon a month after prostate cancer surgery</a>

<h2>'Did not direct staff to conceal hospitalisation'</h2>

Austin claimed that he did not direct his "staff to conceal hospitalisation from anyone" further adding that he had not considered resigning. However, he admitted, "We did not get this right."

Elucidating his current health condition in his address, he said that he was still recovering and has limited use of one leg. He then said that he was using a golf cart to get around the Pentagon building.

"I'm recovering well, but as you can see, I'm still recovering. I'm still having some leg pain and doing physical therapy to get past it. I'm deeply grateful to my doctors and the nursing staff at Walter Reed, and I very much appreciate all the good wishes," the Pentagon chief said.

Earlier, on Jan 29, Austin made his very first appearance at the Pentagon a day after three US soldiers were killed in drone strikes at a military base in Jordan.&nbsp;

According to reports, he met the secretary general of NATO, Jens Stoltenberg, and senior defence officials, including Gen. Charles Q. Brown, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.

<h2>Austin's secret hospitalisation</h2>

The 70-year-old underwent surgery on Dec 22 to treat prostate cancer and came back home the same day.

However, he was again hospitalised on Jan 1 for complications including nausea and severe pain and was discharged on Jan 15.

"The Secretary continues to recover well and, on the advice of doctors, will recuperate and perform his duties remotely for a period of time before returning full-time to the Pentagon," the statement said. "He has full access to required secure communications capabilities."

Austin had kept his cancer diagnosis and hospitalisation from President Biden and senior officials a secret until January.

His mishandling of the situation was a violation of the protocol for top-ranking cabinet officials, who reportedly have to inform well in advance of planned medical absences and identify the one who would be filling in for them.

He had earlier released a statement saying that he "could have done a better job" and took "full responsibility" for the secrecy over his hospitalisation.

(With inputs from agencies)

United States Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin on Thursday (Feb 1) apologised for hiding his prostate cancer diagnosis and hospitalisation from President Joe Biden and the government stating that he did not handle the situation rightly.

United States Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin on Thursday (Feb 1) apologised for hiding his prostate cancer diagnosis and hospitalisation from President Joe Biden and the government stating that he did not handle the situation rightly. "I want to be crystal clear. We did not handle this right and I did not handle this right. I should have told the president about my cancer diagnosis. I should have also told my team and the American public and I take full responsibility," Austin said. "I apologize to my teammates and to the American people," he added. He then said that he had directly apologised to President Biden. "I should have told the president about my cancer diagnosis," he told journalists. "I have apologised directly to President Biden." Also read: US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin returns to Pentagon a month after prostate cancer surgery 'Did not direct staff to conceal hospitalisation' Austin claimed that he did not direct his "staff to conceal hospitalisation from anyone" further adding that he had not considered resigning. However, he admitted, "We did not get this right." Elucidating his current health condition in his address, he said that he was still recovering and has limited use of one leg. He then said that he was using a golf cart to get around the Pentagon building. "I'm recovering well, but as you can see, I'm still recovering. I'm still having some leg pain and doing physical therapy to get past it. I'm deeply grateful to my doctors and the nursing staff at Walter Reed, and I very much appreciate all the good wishes," the Pentagon chief said. Earlier, on Jan 29, Austin made his very first appearance at the Pentagon a day after three US soldiers were killed in drone strikes at a military base in Jordan. According to reports, he met the secretary general of NATO, Jens Stoltenberg, and senior defence officials, including Gen. Charles Q. Brown, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. Austin's secret hospitalisation The 70-year-old underwent surgery on Dec 22 to treat prostate cancer and came back home the same day. However, he was again hospitalised on Jan 1 for complications including nausea and severe pain and was discharged on Jan 15. "The Secretary continues to recover well and, on the advice of doctors, will recuperate and perform his duties remotely for a period of time before returning full-time to the Pentagon," the statement said. "He has full access to required secure communications capabilities." Austin had kept his cancer diagnosis and hospitalisation from President Biden and senior officials a secret until January. His mishandling of the situation was a violation of the protocol for top-ranking cabinet officials, who reportedly have to inform well in advance of planned medical absences and identify the one who would be filling in for them. He had earlier released a statement saying that he "could have done a better job" and took "full responsibility" for the secrecy over his hospitalisation. (With inputs from agencies)

US defense secretary Lloyd Austin apologises for secret hospitalisation: 'I did not handle this right'

An explosion occurred near Pakistan's Election Commission office in Karachi on Friday (Feb 2), WION can confirm.&nbsp;

The police said that no casualties were reported in the blast and that a probe has been launched into the incident.

As per local media reports, the explosive materials were kept in a shopping bag adjoining the poll panel office located in Karachi's red zone area.

The bomb disposal squad, according to ARY News, had been summoned to the site where the blast occurred.&nbsp;

The nature of the explosion and its intensity were yet to be ascertained.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-is-female-genital-mutilation-regressive-practice-that-killed-young-girls-in-sierra-leone-686426">What is Female Genital Mutilation, regressive practice that killed young girls in Sierra Leone?</a>

<h2>Multiple attacks reported in Balochistan ahead of elections</h2>

A slew of attacks have been reported across Pakistan's Balochistan ahead of the general elections.

These include bomb blasts and shootings, causing numerous casualties and property damage, reported the Balochistan Post.

A blast was reported in Balochistan's capital Quetta, claiming the life of one near the police post on Sabzal Road, said the police.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/exclusive-promising-to-end-politics-of-hate-bilawal-bhutto-optimistic-about-pakistan-election-result-686332">Exclusive: An optimistic Bilawal Bhutto promises to end politics of hate post elections in Pakistan</a>

In another incident, two consecutive blasts occurred on Qambarani Road in Quetta, targeting the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) election office and a Police Eagle Force vehicle.

The Election Commission also took notice of the incidents and sought detailed reports from the Balochistan inspector general of police and chief secretary over the bombings.

"At least 10 bomb and grenade attacks happened across Balochistan, including provincial capital Quetta," the senior official 
said.

In the attacks in Quetta, Khuzdar and Turbat, the offices of Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and National Party, and a joint office of Balochistan National Party- Mengal (BNP-M) and Jamiat-e-Islami-Faizal (JUI-F) were targeted with grenades. However, no loss of life was reported. The offices of deputy commissioners in Dhadar and Panjgur were also targeted with hand grenades.

(With inputs from agencies)

An explosion occurred near Pakistan's Election Commission office in Karachi on Friday (Feb 2), WION can confirm. The police said that no casualties were reported in the blast and that a probe has been launched into the incident.

An explosion occurred near Pakistan's Election Commission office in Karachi on Friday (Feb 2), WION can confirm. The police said that no casualties were reported in the blast and that a probe has been launched into the incident. As per local media reports, the explosive materials were kept in a shopping bag adjoining the poll panel office located in Karachi's red zone area. The bomb disposal squad, according to ARY News, had been summoned to the site where the blast occurred. The nature of the explosion and its intensity were yet to be ascertained. Also read: What is Female Genital Mutilation, regressive practice that killed young girls in Sierra Leone? Multiple attacks reported in Balochistan ahead of elections A slew of attacks have been reported across Pakistan's Balochistan ahead of the general elections. These include bomb blasts and shootings, causing numerous casualties and property damage, reported the Balochistan Post. A blast was reported in Balochistan's capital Quetta, claiming the life of one near the police post on Sabzal Road, said the police. Also read: Exclusive: An optimistic Bilawal Bhutto promises to end politics of hate post elections in Pakistan In another incident, two consecutive blasts occurred on Qambarani Road in Quetta, targeting the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) election office and a Police Eagle Force vehicle. The Election Commission also took notice of the incidents and sought detailed reports from the Balochistan inspector general of police and chief secretary over the bombings. "At least 10 bomb and grenade attacks happened across Balochistan, including provincial capital Quetta," the senior official said. In the attacks in Quetta, Khuzdar and Turbat, the offices of Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and National Party, and a joint office of Balochistan National Party- Mengal (BNP-M) and Jamiat-e-Islami-Faizal (JUI-F) were targeted with grenades. However, no loss of life was reported. The offices of deputy commissioners in Dhadar and Panjgur were also targeted with hand grenades. (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan Elections 2024: Blast rocks Election Commission's office in Karachi

Author

Zee News Rajasthan

Editor

Navya Beri

Home

Live Tv

Latest

World

India

Business

Entertainment

Sports

Opinions

Videos

Photos

Gravitas

Lifestyle

Science

Tech

Rajasthan News in Hindi: In-depth coverage of Rajasthan Crime, Political News, Education, Rajasthan Weather Update and Latest Rajasthan News on Zee News Rajasthan.