<p>A drone strike targeting a base in Jordan on Sunday (Jan 28) claimed the lives of three US troops.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After the attack, United States President Joe Biden condemned the Iran-backed militant groups and vowed to hold the perpetrators to account.</p>

<p>"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.</p>

<p>"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.</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p>“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.</p>

<p>The US Central Command said that the 25 people were injured from the attack near the Syrian border further adding that the identities of the ones killed will be withheld pending notification of their families. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-launches-three-satellites-into-space-as-tensions-grip-west-asia-684584">Iran launches three satellites into space as tensions grip West Asia</a></p>

<h2><strong>Deadly attack on US troops occurred in Syria, claims Jordan</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, Jordan released a statement saying that the strike took place at an army base in Syria near the border and not in its territory as was reported by the United States earlier.</p>

<p>Government spokesman Muhannad Mubaidin said the "attack that targeted the American forces did not happen in Jordan... It targeted Al-Tanf base in Syria", where US forces are deployed as part of an international anti-jihadist coalition.</p>

<h2><strong>Hamas spokesman says drone strike 'a warning to American admin'</strong></h2>

<p>Hamas spokesman Sami Abu Zuhri released a statement saying that the killing of the soldiers "is a message to the American administration that unless the killing of innocent people in Gaza stops, it may be faced with the entire (Muslim) nation."</p>

<p>"The continuation of the American-Zionist aggression on Gaza risks a regional explosion," Abu Zuhri said in a statement.</p>

<p>This is the first time that American troops have been killed in the Middle East since the war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas broke out.</p>

<p>The attack is being seen as a significant escalation of the already precarious situation in the Middle East. There have been more than 150 attacks on US and coalition forces in Iraq and Syria, but most were unsuccessful as they did not cause serious injury or damage to infrastructure. &nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>‘Strikes against Houthis to continue,’ says Biden</strong></h2>

<p>Earlier, Biden had said that the military strikes against the Houthis would continue as he said that the rebel group was still attacking vessels in the Red Sea.</p>

<p>"When you say 'working, are they stopping the Houthi?' No. Are they going to continue? Yes," Biden told reporters at the White House when asked if the strikes were working.</p>

<p>Washington re-designated the Houthis as a "terrorist group" on Jan 17 and hit 14 Houthi missiles later the same day. &nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A drone strike targeting a base in Jordan on Sunday (Jan 28) claimed the lives of three US troops. After the attack, United States President Joe Biden condemned the Iran-backed militant groups and vowed to hold the perpetrators to account.

A drone strike targeting a base in Jordan on Sunday (Jan 28) claimed the lives of three US troops. After the attack, United States President Joe 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. The US Central Command said that the 25 people were injured from the attack near the Syrian border further adding that the identities of the ones killed will be withheld pending notification of their families. Also read: Iran launches three satellites into space as tensions grip West Asia Deadly attack on US troops occurred in Syria, claims Jordan Meanwhile, Jordan released a statement saying that the strike took place at an army base in Syria near the border and not in its territory as was reported by the United States earlier. Government spokesman Muhannad Mubaidin said the "attack that targeted the American forces did not happen in Jordan... It targeted Al-Tanf base in Syria", where US forces are deployed as part of an international anti-jihadist coalition. Hamas spokesman says drone strike 'a warning to American admin' Hamas spokesman Sami Abu Zuhri released a statement saying that the killing of the soldiers "is a message to the American administration that unless the killing of innocent people in Gaza stops, it may be faced with the entire (Muslim) nation." "The continuation of the American-Zionist aggression on Gaza risks a regional explosion," Abu Zuhri said in a statement. This is the first time that American troops have been killed in the Middle East since the war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas broke out. The attack is being seen as a significant escalation of the already precarious situation in the Middle East. There have been more than 150 attacks on US and coalition forces in Iraq and Syria, but most were unsuccessful as they did not cause serious injury or damage to infrastructure. ‘Strikes against Houthis to continue,’ says Biden Earlier, Biden had said that the military strikes against the Houthis would continue as he said that the rebel group was still attacking vessels in the Red Sea. "When you say 'working, are they stopping the Houthi?' No. Are they going to continue? Yes," Biden told reporters at the White House when asked if the strikes were working. Washington re-designated the Houthis as a "terrorist group" on Jan 17 and hit 14 Houthi missiles later the same day. (With inputs from agencies)

Biden vows to strike back after drone strike on Jordan base kills 3 US troops

<p>Armed assailants launched an attack on an Italian church in Istanbul claiming the life of one person, said Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya.</p>

<p>The attack was carried out by two masked men at around 11:40 (0840 GMT) in the Sariyer district of Istanbul during a religious ceremony, Yerlikaya said.</p>

<p>He then added that a probe has&nbsp;been launched into the incident.</p>

<p>The minister, sharing details about the deceased said that the individual identified as C.T. lost his life in the armed attack while attending Sunday's service.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="tr">Bugün Saat 11.40 sıralarında<br />
Sarıyer Büyükdere Mahallesinde bulunan Santa Maria Kilisesindeki ayin sırasında,<br />
ayine katılanlar içinde bulunan C.T.<br />
maskeli 2 kişi tarafından silahlı saldırıya uğramış<br />
ve maalesef hayatını kaybetmiştir.<br />
<br />
Konuyla ilgi geniş çaplı soruşturma ve…</p>
— Ali Yerlikaya (@AliYerlikaya) <a href="https://twitter.com/AliYerlikaya/status/1751544783397392764?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 28, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>"C.T., who was among those participating in the service, was the target of a gun attack by two masked individuals and sadly lost his life," the minister said on social media platform X, referring to the initials of the victim.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/protesters-splash-soup-on-glass-protected-mona-lisa-in-paris-684508">Watch | Protesters splash soup at iconic Mona Lisa painting in Paris</a></p>

<p>"We strongly condemn this vile attack," he added.</p>

<p>Turkish officials released a statement saying that the assault looked like targetted killing rather than an attack against the Catholic church.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Local officials said that around 40 people attended the mass, and suggested that there could have been more casualties.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"After the second shot, the gun didn't work, then they (attackers) ran. At this moment, everyone lied on the floor. There were around 35 to 40 people inside," Sariyer district's mayor Sukru Genc told reporters.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>President Recep Tayyip Erdogan expresses condolences&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Turkish President Erdogan expressed condolences over the attack during a phone call with the priest of the Italian church and other local officials.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He assured that "necessary steps are being taken to catch the perpetrators as soon as possible", according to his office.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Italian minister 'firmly condemns' attack</strong></h2>

<p>The Italian foreign minister denounced the attack backing the Turkish authorities to find the killers.</p>

<p>Antonio Tajani said he expressed his "condolences and firm condemnation" over the attack</p>

<h2><strong>Pope expresses support&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Pope Francis on Sunday expressed his support for the Catholic church after the attack, at&nbsp;the end of his weekly Angelus prayer in St Peter's Square at the Vatican.</p>

<p>"I express my closeness to the community of the Santa Maria Church in Istanbul," the Argentine pope said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Armed assailants launched an attack on an Italian church in Istanbul claiming the life of one person, said Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya. The attack was carried out by two masked men at around 11:40 (0840 GMT) in the Sariyer district of Istanbul during a religious ceremony, Yerlikaya said.

Armed assailants launched an attack on an Italian church in Istanbul claiming the life of one person, said Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya. The attack was carried out by two masked men at around 11:40 (0840 GMT) in the Sariyer district of Istanbul during a religious ceremony, Yerlikaya said. He then added that a probe has been launched into the incident. The minister, sharing details about the deceased said that the individual identified as C.T. lost his life in the armed attack while attending Sunday's service. Bugün Saat 11.40 sıralarında Sarıyer Büyükdere Mahallesinde bulunan Santa Maria Kilisesindeki ayin sırasında, ayine katılanlar içinde bulunan C.T. maskeli 2 kişi tarafından silahlı saldırıya uğramış ve maalesef hayatını kaybetmiştir. Konuyla ilgi geniş çaplı soruşturma ve… — Ali Yerlikaya (@AliYerlikaya) January 28, 2024 × "C.T., who was among those participating in the service, was the target of a gun attack by two masked individuals and sadly lost his life," the minister said on social media platform X, referring to the initials of the victim. Also read: Watch | Protesters splash soup at iconic Mona Lisa painting in Paris "We strongly condemn this vile attack," he added. Turkish officials released a statement saying that the assault looked like targetted killing rather than an attack against the Catholic church. Local officials said that around 40 people attended the mass, and suggested that there could have been more casualties. "After the second shot, the gun didn't work, then they (attackers) ran. At this moment, everyone lied on the floor. There were around 35 to 40 people inside," Sariyer district's mayor Sukru Genc told reporters. President Recep Tayyip Erdogan expresses condolences Turkish President Erdogan expressed condolences over the attack during a phone call with the priest of the Italian church and other local officials. He assured that "necessary steps are being taken to catch the perpetrators as soon as possible", according to his office. Italian minister 'firmly condemns' attack The Italian foreign minister denounced the attack backing the Turkish authorities to find the killers. Antonio Tajani said he expressed his "condolences and firm condemnation" over the attack Pope expresses support Pope Francis on Sunday expressed his support for the Catholic church after the attack, at the end of his weekly Angelus prayer in St Peter's Square at the Vatican. "I express my closeness to the community of the Santa Maria Church in Istanbul," the Argentine pope said. (With inputs from agencies)

Turkey: One killed in armed attack on Italian church in Istanbul

<p>The All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) on Saturday (Jan 27) refuted Archaeological Survey of India (ASI)&nbsp;report stating&nbsp;evidence of a Hindu temple there.</p>

<p>AIMPLB executive member Qasim Rasool Ilyas released a statement saying that the report of the ASI is not "conclusive evidence" in this contentious case.</p>

<p>"By doing this the opposition party has created a feeling of anarchy and insecurity in the society," he added.</p>

<p>Ilyas also condemned the Hindu side for 'insulting' the court by releasing the ASI report in the press.</p>

<p>"Hindu communal organizations have been misleading the public for many years regarding the Gyanvapi Masjid. The latest example of this is a report of the Archaeological Survey of India which they filed in the court and made available to the plaintiff and defendant only on the orders of the court. This report was for their study and preparation but by publishing it in the press, the opposition party has not only insulted the court but has also tried to mislead the simple people of the country," he was quoted as saying by the news agency ANI.</p>

<p>He&nbsp;went on to allege that the Hindu side made attempts to deceive the public and create turmoil in the society after a survey team released&nbsp;a report of a&nbsp;fountain present in the reservoir as Shivalinga.</p>

<p>"A few months ago, when the survey team in its report had described the fountain present in the reservoir as Shivalinga, the opposition party had tried its best to mislead the public and create unrest in the society by publicizing it, even though experts It could not be investigated nor did the court give any decision on it," he said.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/hindu-temple-existed-at-gyanvapi-mosque-site-pillars-reused-advocate-citing-archaeological-survey-report-683660">Also read: Gyanvapi mosque dispute: Hindu temple 'existed' at site, pillars reused, says Archaeological survey report</a></p>

<h2><strong>VHP chief says Gyanvapi mosque committee should handover structure to Hindus</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) released a statement on Saturday (Jan 27), demanding the Gyanvapi mosque committee to handover the structure to Hindus.</p>

<p>“The ASI, an official and expert body, has submitted its report to the district judge hearing the Gyanvapi matter in Kashi. The evidence collected by the ASI from the Gyanvapi structure reconfirms that the mosque had been constructed after demolishing a magnificent temple. A part of the temple structure, particularly the western wall is the remaining part of the Hindu Temple,” VHP working president Alok Kumar said in a statement.</p>

<p>He also said that the Hindus should be allowed to offer "sewa puja" to the 'Shivlinga' that as per the report has been discovered in the Wazukhana area.</p>

<p>"Thus, even as per Section 4 of the Places of Worship Act, 1991, the structure should be declared as a Hindu temple," he further said.</p>

<p>Kumar also called upon the Intezamia Committee, to "respectfully shift" the&nbsp;mosque to another appropriate location and&nbsp;hand over the original site of “Kashi Vishvanatha to the Hindu society”.</p>

<p>"The VHP believes that this righteous action shall be an important step towards creating amicable relations between the two prominent communities of Bharat," he added.</p>

<p>A conclusive finding of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) indicated that a large Hindu temple existed at the site of the Gyanvapi mosque complex in Varanasi, in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, media reports said quoting advocate Vishnu Shankar Jain, representing the Hindu side.</p>

<p>As per the ASI findings, modifications were made to the mosque using pillars and plaster from the Hindu temple, with attempts to erase carvings on the pillars, as per Jain.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) on Saturday (Jan 27) refuted Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) report stating evidence of a Hindu temple there.

The All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) on Saturday (Jan 27) refuted Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) report stating evidence of a Hindu temple there. AIMPLB executive member Qasim Rasool Ilyas released a statement saying that the report of the ASI is not "conclusive evidence" in this contentious case. "By doing this the opposition party has created a feeling of anarchy and insecurity in the society," he added. Ilyas also condemned the Hindu side for 'insulting' the court by releasing the ASI report in the press. "Hindu communal organizations have been misleading the public for many years regarding the Gyanvapi Masjid. The latest example of this is a report of the Archaeological Survey of India which they filed in the court and made available to the plaintiff and defendant only on the orders of the court. This report was for their study and preparation but by publishing it in the press, the opposition party has not only insulted the court but has also tried to mislead the simple people of the country," he was quoted as saying by the news agency ANI. He went on to allege that the Hindu side made attempts to deceive the public and create turmoil in the society after a survey team released a report of a fountain present in the reservoir as Shivalinga. "A few months ago, when the survey team in its report had described the fountain present in the reservoir as Shivalinga, the opposition party had tried its best to mislead the public and create unrest in the society by publicizing it, even though experts It could not be investigated nor did the court give any decision on it," he said. Also read: Gyanvapi mosque dispute: Hindu temple 'existed' at site, pillars reused, says Archaeological survey report VHP chief says Gyanvapi mosque committee should handover structure to Hindus Meanwhile, the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) released a statement on Saturday (Jan 27), demanding the Gyanvapi mosque committee to handover the structure to Hindus. “The ASI, an official and expert body, has submitted its report to the district judge hearing the Gyanvapi matter in Kashi. The evidence collected by the ASI from the Gyanvapi structure reconfirms that the mosque had been constructed after demolishing a magnificent temple. A part of the temple structure, particularly the western wall is the remaining part of the Hindu Temple,” VHP working president Alok Kumar said in a statement. He also said that the Hindus should be allowed to offer "sewa puja" to the 'Shivlinga' that as per the report has been discovered in the Wazukhana area. "Thus, even as per Section 4 of the Places of Worship Act, 1991, the structure should be declared as a Hindu temple," he further said. Kumar also called upon the Intezamia Committee, to "respectfully shift" the mosque to another appropriate location and hand over the original site of “Kashi Vishvanatha to the Hindu society”. "The VHP believes that this righteous action shall be an important step towards creating amicable relations between the two prominent communities of Bharat," he added. A conclusive finding of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) indicated that a large Hindu temple existed at the site of the Gyanvapi mosque complex in Varanasi, in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, media reports said quoting advocate Vishnu Shankar Jain, representing the Hindu side. As per the ASI findings, modifications were made to the mosque using pillars and plaster from the Hindu temple, with attempts to erase carvings on the pillars, as per Jain. (With inputs from agencies)

Gyanvapi mosque case: All India Muslim Personal Law Board rejects ASI report, says it is 'inconclusive'

<p>Congress party on Saturday (Jan 27) launched a crowdfunding campaign called ‘Donate for Nyay’ for its Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra. The grand old party in a press briefing said that the ones who will make the donation will get a letter or merchandise signed by the former party chief Rahul Gandhi in return for their contribution.</p>

<p>While launching the campaign at the AICC headquarters in New Delhi, Congress treasurer Ajay Maken claimed that the main aim behind launching the initiative and the wider crowdfunding campaign called 'Donate for Desh’, launched by the party earlier, was not to collect money but was to motivate workers.</p>

<h2><strong>People donating Rs 670 or more to get T-shirts signed by Rahul Gandhi</strong></h2>

<p>Maken, further elucidating the donation plans said that the people contributing Rs 670 ($ 8.06) or more for the campaign would get a T-shirt signed by Rahul Gandhi as a gift.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="hi"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DonateForNyay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DonateForNyay</a> अभियान में योगदान करके 'न्याय की महायात्रा' का हिस्सा बनिए.. और पाएं 'न्याय किट' ✨<br />
<br />
इस न्याय किट में आपको मिलेगी राहुल गांधी जी की साइन की हुई टी-शर्ट, बैग, बैंड, बैज और स्टिकर<br />
<br />
वेबसाइट: <a href="https://t.co/kym484Ael6">https://t.co/kym484Ael6</a> <a href="https://t.co/pxxCpz4oaK">pic.twitter.com/pxxCpz4oaK</a></p>
— Congress (@INCIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/INCIndia/status/1751195408846729548?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 27, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Those who donate Rs 67,000 or more will get a ‘Nyay Kit’ which will contain a T-shirt, bag, band, badge and sticker,” he added.</p>

<p>“For anything that one donates, he or she will get a letter signed by Rahul ji and a certificate of donation,” said Maken, who was accompanied by Jairam Ramesh, joint treasurer Vijay Inder Singla, and Congress minority cell head Imran Pratapgarhi.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="hi">Donate For Nyay अभियान में हमने कई नई चीजें जोड़ी हैं:<br />
<br />
1. जो भी व्यक्ति 670 रुपए या उससे अधिक डोनेट करेगा, उसे राहुल गांधी जी द्वारा साइन की हुई टी-शर्ट गिफ्ट के रुप में मिलेगी।<br />
<br />
2. जो लोग 67 हजार रुपए या उससे अधिक डोनेट करेंगे, उन्हें एक न्याय किट मिलेगा। जिसमें टी-शर्ट, बैग,… <a href="https://t.co/0hobUzKTrh">pic.twitter.com/0hobUzKTrh</a></p>
— Congress (@INCIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/INCIndia/status/1751155178764644703?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 27, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>He then said&nbsp;that the ‘Donate for Nyay’ campaign had collected Rs 2 crore ($ 2,40,611.40) within two hours of being launched.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-akhilesh-yadav-says-alliance-with-congress-off-to-a-good-start-684309">India: Akhilesh Yadav says poll alliance with Congress ‘off to a good start’</a></p>

<h2><strong>‘Donate for Desh’ collects Rs 20 crore&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Maken claimed that the crowdfunding campaign ‘Donate for Desh’, which was launched by the party on Dec 18, 2023, had so far amassed Rs 20 crore ($ 24,06,114).</p>

<p>On being asked about the funds collected through the crowdfunding campaign being lower than&nbsp;what was expected, Maken said, “We can’t contest elections by raising money through our workers. If someone thinks we will get all our funding for the elections through this crowdfunding, he is wrong and this is something we did not intend.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>“You cannot undermine the efforts of 3 lakh Congress people who have given money. The idea is not to get money, the idea is to motivate the workers. Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra will be going through one part of the country. The rest of the party workers in other parts will be able to participate by giving Rs 67,” he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Maken again emphasised the fact that the campaign was not a political platform nor a money-generation programme.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Congress party on Saturday (Jan 27) launched a crowdfunding campaign called ‘Donate for Nyay’ for its Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra. The grand old party in a press briefing said that the ones who will make the donation will get a letter or merchandise signed by the former party chief Rahul Gandhi in return for their contribution.

Congress party on Saturday (Jan 27) launched a crowdfunding campaign called ‘Donate for Nyay’ for its Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra. The grand old party in a press briefing said that the ones who will make the donation will get a letter or merchandise signed by the former party chief Rahul Gandhi in return for their contribution. While launching the campaign at the AICC headquarters in New Delhi, Congress treasurer Ajay Maken claimed that the main aim behind launching the initiative and the wider crowdfunding campaign called 'Donate for Desh’, launched by the party earlier, was not to collect money but was to motivate workers. People donating Rs 670 or more to get T-shirts signed by Rahul Gandhi Maken, further elucidating the donation plans said that the people contributing Rs 670 ($ 8.06) or more for the campaign would get a T-shirt signed by Rahul Gandhi as a gift. #DonateForNyay अभियान में योगदान करके 'न्याय की महायात्रा' का हिस्सा बनिए.. और पाएं 'न्याय किट' ✨ इस न्याय किट में आपको मिलेगी राहुल गांधी जी की साइन की हुई टी-शर्ट, बैग, बैंड, बैज और स्टिकर वेबसाइट: https://t.co/kym484Ael6 pic.twitter.com/pxxCpz4oaK — Congress (@INCIndia) January 27, 2024 × “Those who donate Rs 67,000 or more will get a ‘Nyay Kit’ which will contain a T-shirt, bag, band, badge and sticker,” he added. “For anything that one donates, he or she will get a letter signed by Rahul ji and a certificate of donation,” said Maken, who was accompanied by Jairam Ramesh, joint treasurer Vijay Inder Singla, and Congress minority cell head Imran Pratapgarhi. Donate For Nyay अभियान में हमने कई नई चीजें जोड़ी हैं: 1. जो भी व्यक्ति 670 रुपए या उससे अधिक डोनेट करेगा, उसे राहुल गांधी जी द्वारा साइन की हुई टी-शर्ट गिफ्ट के रुप में मिलेगी। 2. जो लोग 67 हजार रुपए या उससे अधिक डोनेट करेंगे, उन्हें एक न्याय किट मिलेगा। जिसमें टी-शर्ट, बैग,… pic.twitter.com/0hobUzKTrh — Congress (@INCIndia) January 27, 2024 × He then said that the ‘Donate for Nyay’ campaign had collected Rs 2 crore ($ 2,40,611.40) within two hours of being launched. Also read: India: Akhilesh Yadav says poll alliance with Congress ‘off to a good start’ ‘Donate for Desh’ collects Rs 20 crore Maken claimed that the crowdfunding campaign ‘Donate for Desh’, which was launched by the party on Dec 18, 2023, had so far amassed Rs 20 crore ($ 24,06,114). On being asked about the funds collected through the crowdfunding campaign being lower than what was expected, Maken said, “We can’t contest elections by raising money through our workers. If someone thinks we will get all our funding for the elections through this crowdfunding, he is wrong and this is something we did not intend.” “You cannot undermine the efforts of 3 lakh Congress people who have given money. The idea is not to get money, the idea is to motivate the workers. Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra will be going through one part of the country. The rest of the party workers in other parts will be able to participate by giving Rs 67,” he added. Maken again emphasised the fact that the campaign was not a political platform nor a money-generation programme. (With inputs from agencies)

Congress seeks donation for Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra, to offer Rahul Gandhi-signed merchandise as gift in return

<p>In a shocking development, two activists splashed soup on the bullet-proof glass safeguarding Leonardo da Vinci's iconic painting "Mona Lisa" in Paris on Sunday (Jan 28).</p>

<p>The protesters did so demanding the right to "healthy and sustainable food", reported news agency AFP.</p>

<p>The two women, on Sunday morning, hurled the orange and red soup onto the clear casing protecting the famous artwork displayed at the Louvre Museum in France's capital city causing a commotion.</p>

<p>The unprecedented act resulted in gasps from the crowd, who were undoubtedly shocked and surprised by the sudden turn of events.</p>

<p>"What is more important? Art or the right to healthy and sustainable food," the activists asked, standing in front of the painting and speaking in turn.</p>

<p>"Your agricultural system is sick. Our farmers are dying at work," they said before security staff evacuated the room.</p>

<p>A police source, as per AFP reports, said that both the activists have been detained.</p>

<p>The Louvre Museum released a statement saying that the protesters had hidden the pumpkin soup in a coffee thermos.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/danger-looms-on-rishi-sunak-as-crafty-tories-plot-to-throw-him-out-of-downing-street-report-684595">Danger looms on Rishi Sunak as crafty Tories plot to throw him out of Downing Street: Report</a></p>

<p>It further added that the iconic artwork remained unharmed and that the room housing the masterpiece had re-opened to the public after being closed for nearly an hour.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="fr">Par leur action non violente, Sasha (24ans) et Marie-Juliette (63ans) exigent la mise en place d'une Sécurité Sociale de l'Alimentation Durable. [2]<br />
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👉<a href="https://t.co/FLzMmVW4tW">https://t.co/FLzMmVW4tW</a><a href="https://twitter.com/SocialeAlim?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SocialeAlim</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SSAD?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SSAD</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Alimentation?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Alimentation</a> <a href="https://t.co/i4YS6VrrRX">pic.twitter.com/i4YS6VrrRX</a></p>
— Riposte Alimentaire (@riposte_alim) <a href="https://twitter.com/riposte_alim/status/1751554609720471872?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 28, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Riposte Alimentaire claims responsibility&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The responsibility for the unexpected act was taken by a group named Riposte Alimentaire ("Food counterattack").</p>

<p>They said that the stunt marked the "start of a campaign of civil resistance with the clear demand... of the social security of sustainable food".</p>

<p>Member of the group, Till Van Elst claimed that they wanted the state to provide people food items at reduced rates through a specialised social security card.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Under the scheme, democratic assemblies would choose the food to be subsidised.</p>

<p>"We want citizens to really be able to... decide what is in their plates," he told AFP.</p>

<h2><strong>Culture Minister Rachida Dati denounces act</strong></h2>

<p>Dati, denouncing the act, stated, "The Mona Lisa, as our heritage, belongs to future generations. No cause can justify targeting it," she wrote on X.</p>

<p>This also comes amid the ongoing farmer protests in France who have been staging demonstrations demanding better pay, taxes and regulations.</p>

<p>Prime Minister Gabriel Attal on Sunday announced new measures after some farmers threatened to block roads in the capital city on Monday.</p>

<p>It is the latest attack on the masterpiece in the French capital's Louvre museum after someone threw a custard pie at it in May 2022, but its thick glass casing ensured it came to no harm.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


In a shocking development, two activists splashed soup on the bullet-proof glass safeguarding Leonardo da Vinci's iconic painting "Mona Lisa" in Paris on Sunday (Jan 28).

In a shocking development, two activists splashed soup on the bullet-proof glass safeguarding Leonardo da Vinci's iconic painting "Mona Lisa" in Paris on Sunday (Jan 28). The protesters did so demanding the right to "healthy and sustainable food", reported news agency AFP. The two women, on Sunday morning, hurled the orange and red soup onto the clear casing protecting the famous artwork displayed at the Louvre Museum in France's capital city causing a commotion. The unprecedented act resulted in gasps from the crowd, who were undoubtedly shocked and surprised by the sudden turn of events. "What is more important? Art or the right to healthy and sustainable food," the activists asked, standing in front of the painting and speaking in turn. "Your agricultural system is sick. Our farmers are dying at work," they said before security staff evacuated the room. A police source, as per AFP reports, said that both the activists have been detained. The Louvre Museum released a statement saying that the protesters had hidden the pumpkin soup in a coffee thermos. Also read: Danger looms on Rishi Sunak as crafty Tories plot to throw him out of Downing Street: Report It further added that the iconic artwork remained unharmed and that the room housing the masterpiece had re-opened to the public after being closed for nearly an hour. Par leur action non violente, Sasha (24ans) et Marie-Juliette (63ans) exigent la mise en place d'une Sécurité Sociale de l'Alimentation Durable. [2] 👉https://t.co/FLzMmVW4tW@SocialeAlim #SSAD #Alimentation pic.twitter.com/i4YS6VrrRX — Riposte Alimentaire (@riposte_alim) January 28, 2024 × Riposte Alimentaire claims responsibility The responsibility for the unexpected act was taken by a group named Riposte Alimentaire ("Food counterattack"). They said that the stunt marked the "start of a campaign of civil resistance with the clear demand... of the social security of sustainable food". Member of the group, Till Van Elst claimed that they wanted the state to provide people food items at reduced rates through a specialised social security card. Under the scheme, democratic assemblies would choose the food to be subsidised. "We want citizens to really be able to... decide what is in their plates," he told AFP. Culture Minister Rachida Dati denounces act Dati, denouncing the act, stated, "The Mona Lisa, as our heritage, belongs to future generations. No cause can justify targeting it," she wrote on X. This also comes amid the ongoing farmer protests in France who have been staging demonstrations demanding better pay, taxes and regulations. Prime Minister Gabriel Attal on Sunday announced new measures after some farmers threatened to block roads in the capital city on Monday. It is the latest attack on the masterpiece in the French capital's Louvre museum after someone threw a custard pie at it in May 2022, but its thick glass casing ensured it came to no harm. (With inputs from agencies)

Watch | Protesters splash soup at iconic Mona Lisa painting at Louvre Museum in Paris

<p>The head of the World Health Organization called for a ceasefire and a "true solution" to the Israel-Palestinian conflict in an emotional plea to the global health body's governing body on Thursday where he described conditions in Gaza as "hellish".</p>

<p>WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, who lived through the war as a child and whose own children hid in a bunker during bombardments in Ethiopia's 1998-2000 border war with Eritrea, became emotional describing conditions in the bombed-out Gaza enclave where more than 25,000 people have been killed.</p>

<p>"I'm a true believer because of my own experience that war doesn't bring a solution, except more war, more hatred, more agony, more destruction. So let's choose peace and resolve this issue politically," Tedros told the WHO Executive Board in Geneva during a discussion about the Gaza health emergency.</p>

<p>"I think all of you have said the two-state solution and so on, and hope this war will end and move into a true solution," he said, before breaking down, describing the current situation as "beyond words".</p>

<p>Israel unleashed its campaign to eliminate Hamas after the militants burst into Israel on Oct. 7 and killed 1,200 people, most of them civilians, and took over 200 hostages back to Gaza.</p>

<p>Israel's ambassador said Tedros' comments represented a "complete leadership failure".</p>

<p>"The statement by the director-general was the embodiment of everything that is wrong with WHO since October 7th. No mention of the hostages, the rapes, the murder of Israelis, nor the militarisation of hospitals and Hamas' despicable use of human shields," Meirav Eilon Shahar said in comments sent to Reuters.</p>

<p>She also accused the global health agency of "collusion" with Hamas, saying the WHO turned a blind eye to Hamas' military activities in Gaza hospitals.</p>

<p>In the same address, Tedros warned that more people in Gaza would die of starvation and disease.</p>

<p>"If you add all that, I think it's not easy to understand how hellish the situation is," he said.</p>


The head of the World Health Organization called for a ceasefire and a "true solution" to the Israel-Palestinian conflict in an emotional plea to the global health body's governing body on Thursday where he described conditions in Gaza as "hellish".

The head of the World Health Organization called for a ceasefire and a "true solution" to the Israel-Palestinian conflict in an emotional plea to the global health body's governing body on Thursday where he described conditions in Gaza as "hellish". WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, who lived through the war as a child and whose own children hid in a bunker during bombardments in Ethiopia's 1998-2000 border war with Eritrea, became emotional describing conditions in the bombed-out Gaza enclave where more than 25,000 people have been killed. "I'm a true believer because of my own experience that war doesn't bring a solution, except more war, more hatred, more agony, more destruction. So let's choose peace and resolve this issue politically," Tedros told the WHO Executive Board in Geneva during a discussion about the Gaza health emergency. "I think all of you have said the two-state solution and so on, and hope this war will end and move into a true solution," he said, before breaking down, describing the current situation as "beyond words". Israel unleashed its campaign to eliminate Hamas after the militants burst into Israel on Oct. 7 and killed 1,200 people, most of them civilians, and took over 200 hostages back to Gaza. Israel's ambassador said Tedros' comments represented a "complete leadership failure". "The statement by the director-general was the embodiment of everything that is wrong with WHO since October 7th. No mention of the hostages, the rapes, the murder of Israelis, nor the militarisation of hospitals and Hamas' despicable use of human shields," Meirav Eilon Shahar said in comments sent to Reuters. She also accused the global health agency of "collusion" with Hamas, saying the WHO turned a blind eye to Hamas' military activities in Gaza hospitals. In the same address, Tedros warned that more people in Gaza would die of starvation and disease. "If you add all that, I think it's not easy to understand how hellish the situation is," he said.

WHO chief breaks down describing 'hellish' Gaza conditions

<p>White House on Saturday (Jan 27) released a statement saying that the United States and China were working on arranging another call between President Joe Biden and his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping.</p>

<p>It released a statement saying that both sides were pursuing "additional high-level diplomacy, including through a call between President Biden and President Xi."</p>

<p>This came as US and China said that their top diplomats, Wang Yi and US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan held "candid, substantive" talks in Thailand's capital city Bangkok.</p>

<p>The issue of Taiwan central was also discussed during the talks after the recent elections there, according to the official statement.</p>

<p>Wang and Sullivan "had candid, substantive and fruitful strategic communication on implementing the consensus reached at the San Francisco meeting... and on properly handling important and sensitive issues in China-US relations", a statement on China's foreign ministry website released Saturday evening said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Reiterating China's description of the official discussions, the White House added that the high-level talks were "part of the effort to maintain open lines of communication and responsibly manage competition in the relationship" between both countries.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-hits-houthi-linked-anti-ship-missile-after-british-oil-tanker-comes-under-attack-684246">US hits Houthi-linked anti-ship missile after British oil tanker comes under attack</a></p>

<h2><strong>'Taiwan is part of China', says Wang&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>During the talks, as per the foreign ministry, Wang stressed that Taiwan was "China's internal affair and the regional election in Taiwan cannot change the basic reality that Taiwan is part of China".</p>

<p>"The biggest risk to peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait is the so-called 'Taiwan independence' movement. The biggest challenge to China-US relations is also the 'Taiwan independence' movement," it added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sullivan, however, "underscored the importance of maintaining peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait", according to the White House.</p>

<h2><strong>US asks China to press Iran on Red Sea shipping attacks</strong></h2>

<p>A senior White House official said that during the talks the United States, also asked China to press Iran to bring about an end to the attacks on Red Sea shipping carried out by Yemen's Houthi rebel group.</p>

<p>Sullivan in his discussion with Wang "raised the importance of Beijing using (its) leverage with Iran to call for an end, and bring an end" to the attacks by the Iranian-backed rebels, the official told the reporters.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


White House on Saturday (Jan 27) released a statement saying that the United States and China were working on arranging another call between President Joe Biden and his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping.

White House on Saturday (Jan 27) released a statement saying that the United States and China were working on arranging another call between President Joe Biden and his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping. It released a statement saying that both sides were pursuing "additional high-level diplomacy, including through a call between President Biden and President Xi." This came as US and China said that their top diplomats, Wang Yi and US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan held "candid, substantive" talks in Thailand's capital city Bangkok. The issue of Taiwan central was also discussed during the talks after the recent elections there, according to the official statement. Wang and Sullivan "had candid, substantive and fruitful strategic communication on implementing the consensus reached at the San Francisco meeting... and on properly handling important and sensitive issues in China-US relations", a statement on China's foreign ministry website released Saturday evening said. Reiterating China's description of the official discussions, the White House added that the high-level talks were "part of the effort to maintain open lines of communication and responsibly manage competition in the relationship" between both countries. Also read: US hits Houthi-linked anti-ship missile after British oil tanker comes under attack 'Taiwan is part of China', says Wang During the talks, as per the foreign ministry, Wang stressed that Taiwan was "China's internal affair and the regional election in Taiwan cannot change the basic reality that Taiwan is part of China". "The biggest risk to peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait is the so-called 'Taiwan independence' movement. The biggest challenge to China-US relations is also the 'Taiwan independence' movement," it added. Sullivan, however, "underscored the importance of maintaining peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait", according to the White House. US asks China to press Iran on Red Sea shipping attacks A senior White House official said that during the talks the United States, also asked China to press Iran to bring about an end to the attacks on Red Sea shipping carried out by Yemen's Houthi rebel group. Sullivan in his discussion with Wang "raised the importance of Beijing using (its) leverage with Iran to call for an end, and bring an end" to the attacks by the Iranian-backed rebels, the official told the reporters. (With inputs from agencies)

White House says planning another call between President Joe Biden and his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping

<p>India's President Droupadi Murmu on Friday (Jan 26) affirmed that the ease of friendship and the strength of the partnership between New Delhi and Paris will "brighten our future journey".</p>

<p>"Today we stand together before the world. Two great republics, each with a distinct contribution to human progress. Independent in thought, responsible in policy and sensitive to the needs of the world... I am confident that the ease of our friendship and the strength of our partnership will brighten our future journey," said the president.</p>

<p>"There can be no better symbol of the depth of our friendship and the strength of our partnership than 14 July 2023 and 26 January," she added.</p>

<p>"This is a historic and memorable moment in many ways. It would rarely have happened that the leaders of two countries have been the chief guests at each other's national functions consecutively... On this day, two years after gaining independence, India implemented the world's largest handwritten constitution," India's president said.</p>

<h2><strong>'Extremely honoured to be part of an important day,' Macron</strong></h2>

<p>Reaffirming the longstanding friendship between the two countries, Macron said "Long live the friendship between France and India."</p>

<p>"It is with the most pleasure that we are here and to come back five years after our former state visit and five months after the success of your G20. We were extremely honoured to be part of such an important and unique day and to have our soldiers being alongside with you and being part of this exceptional moment. I think this is for everybody here in this delegation, in our&nbsp;memories forever," said Macron.</p>

<p>"Clearly, we don't seem to be able to stay apart...This is probably due to the very special relation we have together. And the fact that between India and France there is something very special because we do share a lot of similarities," the French President added.</p>

<p>President Droupadi Murmu met her French counterpart Macron at Rashtrapati Bhawan earlier today.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Delhi: President Droupadi Murmu meets French President Emmanuel Macron at Rashtrapati Bhawan<br />
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Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud and other dignitaries present. <a href="https://t.co/qRWLqxe7a3">pic.twitter.com/qRWLqxe7a3</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1750904782829834416?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 26, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud and other dignitaries were also present there.</p>

<p>Macron also visited the revered Nizamuddin Dargah and immersed himself in the magic of the Qawali session there. The President interacted with Syed Kalim Nizami, Sufi masters, descendents and trustees and discussed the history of the place.</p>

<p><img alt="Macron" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c2f87ae1-72ba-46ba-b961-4e41d71e2d21" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/WhatsApp%20Image%202024-01-27%20at%2012.40.42%20AM.jpeg" /></p>

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<p><img alt="macron 2" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9764ceb5-b601-41b4-8471-275e7b61e240" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/1a634207-cf5e-4f7e-813d-12e3ccf378af.jpg" /></p>

<h2><strong>Macron addresses French community</strong></h2>

<p>Macron also addressed the French community at the Resident of France&nbsp;in the national capital, as per the Embassy of France in India.</p>

<p>The significant visit by the French president culminates the 25th-anniversary celebrations of the Strategic Partnership between India and France.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">A great honor for France.<br />
Thank you, India. <a href="https://t.co/fXfp4hdCsb">pic.twitter.com/fXfp4hdCsb</a></p>
— Emmanuel Macron (@EmmanuelMacron) <a href="https://twitter.com/EmmanuelMacron/status/1750757564281766236?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 26, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>After PM Modi's visit to France on its National Day in July last year, the visit by Macron is seen as a unique reciprocal exchange.</p>

<p>The Indian prime minister, during his visit, was honoured with the Grand Cross of the Legion of Honour, which is considered the most prestigious recognition in France.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">VIDEO | French president <a href="https://twitter.com/EmmanuelMacron?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@EmmanuelMacron</a> addresses the French community at the French Embassy in New Delhi. <a href="https://t.co/5kj0FHyvlf">pic.twitter.com/5kj0FHyvlf</a></p>
— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) <a href="https://twitter.com/PTI_News/status/1750865991943221468?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 26, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Both leaders have engaged in extensive high-profile discussions throughout 2023, highlighting the strength and depth of the bilateral relationship.</p>

<p>The French president was received by External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, Rajasthan Governor Kalraj Mishra and Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma upon his arrival at the Jaipur International Airport&nbsp;on Thursday (Jan 25).</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">My dear friend <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NarendraModi</a>,<br />
Indian people,<br />
<br />
My warmest wishes on your Republic Day. Happy and proud to be with you.<br />
<br />
Let’s celebrate! <a href="https://t.co/e5kg1PEc0p">pic.twitter.com/e5kg1PEc0p</a></p>
— Emmanuel Macron (@EmmanuelMacron) <a href="https://twitter.com/EmmanuelMacron/status/1750708312004288962?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 26, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>PM Modi hails India-France ties</strong></h2>

<p>PM Modi took to his official social media and hailed ties between India and France. He said that it was a matter of great pride that French President Emmanuel Macron will be taking part in the 75th Republic Day celebrations in New Delhi on Friday (Jan 26).</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-france-talks-on-red-sea-conflict-modi-macron-address-maritime-disruptions-to-boost-defense-ties-683897">India-France talks: Modi, Macron address maritime disruptions in Red Sea, to strengthen defence ties</a></p>

<p>He further expressed happiness that the French leader commenced his visit to India from Jaipur, which is a city known for its rich culture and heritage.</p>

<p>"Welcome to India, my friend President @EmmanuelMacron. I am happy that President Macron begins his India visit from Jaipur in Rajasthan, a land with rich culture, heritage and talented people," he wrote on X.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Welcome to India, my friend President <a href="https://twitter.com/EmmanuelMacron?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@EmmanuelMacron</a>.<br />
<br />
I am happy that President Macron begins his India visit from Jaipur in Rajasthan, a land with rich culture, heritage and talented people. It is a matter of great pride that he will be taking part in our Republic Day… <a href="https://t.co/Q7JGuZpJJP">pic.twitter.com/Q7JGuZpJJP</a></p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1750559852722618400?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 25, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>"It is a matter of great pride that he will be taking part in our Republic Day celebrations tomorrow, 26th January, in Delhi. His presence not only strengthens the ties between our nations but also adds a significant chapter to our shared history of friendship and collaboration," he added.</p>

<p>The two leaders visited Rajasthan's Jaipur on Wednesday upon Macron's arrival in India.</p>

<p>They held a mega roadshow on the streets of the pink city and were welcomed by citizens in large numbers.</p>

<p>The crowd also showered flower petals on PM Modi and French President Macron.</p>

<p>Following the roadshow, the Indian prime minister and the French president visited Hawa Mahal, also known as the 'Palace of Breeze', which was built in the year 1799 as an extension to the Royal City Palace of Jaipur.</p>

<p>After this, the two interacted over a cup of tea at a local shop and the French President made the payment through UPI.&nbsp;</p>

<p>PM Modi then explained the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) digital payments system to the French President.</p>

<p>"Connecting over tea &amp; UPI! PM @narendramodidemonstrated the simplicity &amp; swiftness of 's UPI payment system to President @EmmanuelMacron by purchasing cups of tea and an Indian handicraft using UPI. Digital cooperation is an important pillar of - partnership," the official spokesperson of the Ministry of External Affairs, Randhir Jaiswal on X.</p>

<p>The two leaders, earlier in the day, also visited Jantar Mantar which was listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site in July 2010.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Visited Jantar Mantar in Jaipur with President <a href="https://twitter.com/EmmanuelMacron?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@EmmanuelMacron</a>. This UNESCO World Heritage Site stands as a testament to India's rich heritage in astronomy. It also symbolises the blend of ancient wisdom and modern science, a shared value that both India and France appreciate. <a href="https://t.co/2d0Se6bg3h">pic.twitter.com/2d0Se6bg3h</a></p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1750560110466777314?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 25, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>"Visited Jantar Mantar in Jaipur with President @EmmanuelMacron. This UNESCO World Heritage Site stands as a testament to India's rich heritage in astronomy. It also symbolises the blend of ancient wisdom and modern science, a shared value that both India and France appreciate," he wrote on X, highlighting his visit to the World Heritage Site with the French leader.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


India's President Droupadi Murmu on Friday (Jan 26) affirmed that the ease of friendship and the strength of the partnership between New Delhi and Paris will "brighten our future journey".

India's President Droupadi Murmu on Friday (Jan 26) affirmed that the ease of friendship and the strength of the partnership between New Delhi and Paris will "brighten our future journey". "Today we stand together before the world. Two great republics, each with a distinct contribution to human progress. Independent in thought, responsible in policy and sensitive to the needs of the world... I am confident that the ease of our friendship and the strength of our partnership will brighten our future journey," said the president. "There can be no better symbol of the depth of our friendship and the strength of our partnership than 14 July 2023 and 26 January," she added. "This is a historic and memorable moment in many ways. It would rarely have happened that the leaders of two countries have been the chief guests at each other's national functions consecutively... On this day, two years after gaining independence, India implemented the world's largest handwritten constitution," India's president said. 'Extremely honoured to be part of an important day,' Macron Reaffirming the longstanding friendship between the two countries, Macron said "Long live the friendship between France and India." "It is with the most pleasure that we are here and to come back five years after our former state visit and five months after the success of your G20. We were extremely honoured to be part of such an important and unique day and to have our soldiers being alongside with you and being part of this exceptional moment. I think this is for everybody here in this delegation, in our memories forever," said Macron. "Clearly, we don't seem to be able to stay apart...This is probably due to the very special relation we have together. And the fact that between India and France there is something very special because we do share a lot of similarities," the French President added. President Droupadi Murmu met her French counterpart Macron at Rashtrapati Bhawan earlier today. #WATCH | Delhi: President Droupadi Murmu meets French President Emmanuel Macron at Rashtrapati Bhawan Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud and other dignitaries present. pic.twitter.com/qRWLqxe7a3 — ANI (@ANI) January 26, 2024 × Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud and other dignitaries were also present there. Macron also visited the revered Nizamuddin Dargah and immersed himself in the magic of the Qawali session there. The President interacted with Syed Kalim Nizami, Sufi masters, descendents and trustees and discussed the history of the place. Macron addresses French community Macron also addressed the French community at the Resident of France in the national capital, as per the Embassy of France in India. The significant visit by the French president culminates the 25th-anniversary celebrations of the Strategic Partnership between India and France. A great honor for France. Thank you, India. pic.twitter.com/fXfp4hdCsb — Emmanuel Macron (@EmmanuelMacron) January 26, 2024 × After PM Modi's visit to France on its National Day in July last year, the visit by Macron is seen as a unique reciprocal exchange. The Indian prime minister, during his visit, was honoured with the Grand Cross of the Legion of Honour, which is considered the most prestigious recognition in France. VIDEO | French president @EmmanuelMacron addresses the French community at the French Embassy in New Delhi. pic.twitter.com/5kj0FHyvlf — Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) January 26, 2024 × Both leaders have engaged in extensive high-profile discussions throughout 2023, highlighting the strength and depth of the bilateral relationship. The French president was received by External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, Rajasthan Governor Kalraj Mishra and Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma upon his arrival at the Jaipur International Airport on Thursday (Jan 25). My dear friend @NarendraModi, Indian people, My warmest wishes on your Republic Day. Happy and proud to be with you. Let’s celebrate! pic.twitter.com/e5kg1PEc0p — Emmanuel Macron (@EmmanuelMacron) January 26, 2024 × PM Modi hails India-France ties PM Modi took to his official social media and hailed ties between India and France. He said that it was a matter of great pride that French President Emmanuel Macron will be taking part in the 75th Republic Day celebrations in New Delhi on Friday (Jan 26). Also read: India-France talks: Modi, Macron address maritime disruptions in Red Sea, to strengthen defence ties He further expressed happiness that the French leader commenced his visit to India from Jaipur, which is a city known for its rich culture and heritage. "Welcome to India, my friend President @EmmanuelMacron. I am happy that President Macron begins his India visit from Jaipur in Rajasthan, a land with rich culture, heritage and talented people," he wrote on X. Welcome to India, my friend President @EmmanuelMacron. I am happy that President Macron begins his India visit from Jaipur in Rajasthan, a land with rich culture, heritage and talented people. It is a matter of great pride that he will be taking part in our Republic Day… pic.twitter.com/Q7JGuZpJJP — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 25, 2024 × "It is a matter of great pride that he will be taking part in our Republic Day celebrations tomorrow, 26th January, in Delhi. His presence not only strengthens the ties between our nations but also adds a significant chapter to our shared history of friendship and collaboration," he added. The two leaders visited Rajasthan's Jaipur on Wednesday upon Macron's arrival in India. They held a mega roadshow on the streets of the pink city and were welcomed by citizens in large numbers. The crowd also showered flower petals on PM Modi and French President Macron. Following the roadshow, the Indian prime minister and the French president visited Hawa Mahal, also known as the 'Palace of Breeze', which was built in the year 1799 as an extension to the Royal City Palace of Jaipur. After this, the two interacted over a cup of tea at a local shop and the French President made the payment through UPI. PM Modi then explained the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) digital payments system to the French President. "Connecting over tea & UPI! PM @narendramodidemonstrated the simplicity & swiftness of 's UPI payment system to President @EmmanuelMacron by purchasing cups of tea and an Indian handicraft using UPI. Digital cooperation is an important pillar of - partnership," the official spokesperson of the Ministry of External Affairs, Randhir Jaiswal on X. The two leaders, earlier in the day, also visited Jantar Mantar which was listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site in July 2010. Visited Jantar Mantar in Jaipur with President @EmmanuelMacron. This UNESCO World Heritage Site stands as a testament to India's rich heritage in astronomy. It also symbolises the blend of ancient wisdom and modern science, a shared value that both India and France appreciate. pic.twitter.com/2d0Se6bg3h — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 25, 2024 × "Visited Jantar Mantar in Jaipur with President @EmmanuelMacron. This UNESCO World Heritage Site stands as a testament to India's rich heritage in astronomy. It also symbolises the blend of ancient wisdom and modern science, a shared value that both India and France appreciate," he wrote on X, highlighting his visit to the World Heritage Site with the French leader. (With inputs from agencies)

Droupadi Murmu, French counterpart Macron reaffirm longstanding friendship between India and France

<p>Samajwadi Party head Akhilesh Yadav on Saturday (Jan 27) claimed that his alliance with the grand old party Congress had commenced on a very "good start" with 11 Lok Sabha seats in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Yadav took to his official X account and wrote, "Our cordial alliance with the Congress is off to a good start with 11 strong seats. This trend will move forward with the winning equation. 'INDIA' team and 'PDA' strategy will change history."</p>

<p>The state sends 80 members to the Lower House of Parliament and the Lok Sabha elections are set to take place in April-May this year.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="hi">कांग्रेस के साथ 11 मज़बूत सीटों से हमारे सौहार्दपूर्ण गठबंधन की अच्छी शुरुआत हो रही है… ये सिलसिला जीत के समीकरण के साथ और भी आगे बढ़ेगा।<br />
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‘इंडिया’ की टीम और ‘पीडीए’ की रणनीति इतिहास बदल देगी।</p>
— Akhilesh Yadav (@yadavakhilesh) <a href="https://twitter.com/yadavakhilesh/status/1751150323379708043?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 27, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier in January, Yadav held a meeting with party leaders including former MPs, former MLAs, and former MLCs in Lucknow. He stated that the capacity to win was the most crucial criterion that would be taken into consideration for deciding on seats.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-set-to-lose-nitish-kumar-bihar-cm-likely-to-switch-side-to-bjp-very-soon-684199">'INDIA' set to lose Nitish Kumar? Bihar CM to join hands with BJP very soon, say reports</a></p>

<p>"We and RLD's Jayant Choudhary had a good conversation. We had a discussion regarding seven seats. We are also in conversation with the Congress. Several meetings have taken place in Delhi. Very soon, more meetings will be held, and a way will be found. The INDIA alliance should be strong; the question is not of (number of) seats but of winning. On the basis of winnability, we all will take a decision together," he said.</p>

<p>The Samajwadi Party chief's announcement also comes amid speculations of Bihar Chief Minister and JD(U) president Nitish Kumar's return to the BJP-led NDA.</p>

<p>Kumar had joined forces with the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), founded by his staunch foe, Lalu Prasad in August 2022, after he cut ties with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).</p>

<p>The longest-serving CM of Bihar subsequently brought together all parties across the country with an aim to take on the BJP which further led to the formation of the opposition bloc INDIA.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Samajwadi Party head Akhilesh Yadav on Saturday (Jan 27) claimed that his alliance with the grand old party Congress had commenced on a very "good start" with 11 Lok Sabha seats in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh.

Samajwadi Party head Akhilesh Yadav on Saturday (Jan 27) claimed that his alliance with the grand old party Congress had commenced on a very "good start" with 11 Lok Sabha seats in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. Yadav took to his official X account and wrote, "Our cordial alliance with the Congress is off to a good start with 11 strong seats. This trend will move forward with the winning equation. 'INDIA' team and 'PDA' strategy will change history." The state sends 80 members to the Lower House of Parliament and the Lok Sabha elections are set to take place in April-May this year. कांग्रेस के साथ 11 मज़बूत सीटों से हमारे सौहार्दपूर्ण गठबंधन की अच्छी शुरुआत हो रही है… ये सिलसिला जीत के समीकरण के साथ और भी आगे बढ़ेगा। ‘इंडिया’ की टीम और ‘पीडीए’ की रणनीति इतिहास बदल देगी। — Akhilesh Yadav (@yadavakhilesh) January 27, 2024 × Earlier in January, Yadav held a meeting with party leaders including former MPs, former MLAs, and former MLCs in Lucknow. He stated that the capacity to win was the most crucial criterion that would be taken into consideration for deciding on seats. Also read: 'INDIA' set to lose Nitish Kumar? Bihar CM to join hands with BJP very soon, say reports "We and RLD's Jayant Choudhary had a good conversation. We had a discussion regarding seven seats. We are also in conversation with the Congress. Several meetings have taken place in Delhi. Very soon, more meetings will be held, and a way will be found. The INDIA alliance should be strong; the question is not of (number of) seats but of winning. On the basis of winnability, we all will take a decision together," he said. The Samajwadi Party chief's announcement also comes amid speculations of Bihar Chief Minister and JD(U) president Nitish Kumar's return to the BJP-led NDA. Kumar had joined forces with the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), founded by his staunch foe, Lalu Prasad in August 2022, after he cut ties with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). The longest-serving CM of Bihar subsequently brought together all parties across the country with an aim to take on the BJP which further led to the formation of the opposition bloc INDIA. (With inputs from agencies)

India: Akhilesh Yadav says poll alliance with Congress ‘off to a good start’

<p>A newly-opened restaurant in Jordan invited severe criticism from Israel over its name 'October 7' which Tel Aviv said was done deliberately in a show of support for the Palestinian group Hamas' deadly assault.</p>

<p>The video of the shawarma joint, situated in the Southern Mazar district of the country, took the internet by storm and triggered severe backlash for glorifying the Hamas attacks.</p>

<h2><strong>'Political pressure'</strong></h2>

<p>However, Israel's Ynet News quoted a social media post by the owner of the restaurant where he claimed that he had to forcibly take down the name of his food outlet due to "political pressure".</p>

<p>He further added that the government authorities had threatened to withhold his business license stating that it was against the law to give a restaurant a name with political connotations. &nbsp;</p>

<p>“The date October 7 is an honourable date and will remain engraved in our hearts forever. I wasn’t looking for fame, trends or marketing. I am proud of myself and proud that I shook the fragile entity [Israel] by using the name of a shawarma restaurant and struck terror in their hearts for at least two days,” he wrote in a Facebook post.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-south-african-president-cyril-ramaphosa-breaks-into-celebration-as-icj-rules-against-israel-684014">WATCH | South African President Cyril Ramaphosa breaks into celebration as ICJ rules against Israel</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>Disgraceful glorification of October 7 has to stop, says Israel’s opposition party chief</strong></h2>

<p>After the video of the restaurant went viral, the chief of Israel’s opposition party, Yair Lapid, released a statement saying that the name 'October 7' showcased "incitement and hatred against Israel," further urging the Jordanian government to take stern action.</p>

<p>"The disgraceful glorification of October 7th has to stop. The incitement and hatred against Israel breeds the terrorism and extremism which led to the brutal massacre of October 7th," Lapid wrote on X.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The disgraceful glorification of October 7th has to stop. The incitement and hatred against Israel breeds the terrorism and extremism which led to the brutal massacre of October 7th.<br />
<br />
We expect the Jordanian government to condemn this publicly and unequivocaly <a href="https://t.co/KwyeqHAiXO">https://t.co/KwyeqHAiXO</a></p>
— יאיר לפיד - Yair Lapid (@yairlapid) <a href="https://twitter.com/yairlapid/status/1750451511404933558?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 25, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>“We expect the Jordanian government to condemn this publicly and unequivocally,” he added.</p>

<p>According to local Israeli media reports, the restaurant was renovated in Al-Karak and decided on a name that glorified the unprecedented attacks that Hamas launched against Israeli sites on Oct 7, 2023.</p>

<p>As per Israeli media outlets, Israeli-Jordanian ties took a hit after the war broke out between Israel and Hamas. The bilateral meetings have been suspended since then.</p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.</strong></em></p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A newly-opened restaurant in Jordan invited severe criticism from Israel over its name 'October 7' which Tel Aviv said was done deliberately in a show of support for the Palestinian group Hamas' deadly assault.

A newly-opened restaurant in Jordan invited severe criticism from Israel over its name 'October 7' which Tel Aviv said was done deliberately in a show of support for the Palestinian group Hamas' deadly assault. The video of the shawarma joint, situated in the Southern Mazar district of the country, took the internet by storm and triggered severe backlash for glorifying the Hamas attacks. 'Political pressure' However, Israel's Ynet News quoted a social media post by the owner of the restaurant where he claimed that he had to forcibly take down the name of his food outlet due to "political pressure". He further added that the government authorities had threatened to withhold his business license stating that it was against the law to give a restaurant a name with political connotations. “The date October 7 is an honourable date and will remain engraved in our hearts forever. I wasn’t looking for fame, trends or marketing. I am proud of myself and proud that I shook the fragile entity [Israel] by using the name of a shawarma restaurant and struck terror in their hearts for at least two days,” he wrote in a Facebook post. Also read: WATCH | South African President Cyril Ramaphosa breaks into celebration as ICJ rules against Israel Disgraceful glorification of October 7 has to stop, says Israel’s opposition party chief After the video of the restaurant went viral, the chief of Israel’s opposition party, Yair Lapid, released a statement saying that the name 'October 7' showcased "incitement and hatred against Israel," further urging the Jordanian government to take stern action. "The disgraceful glorification of October 7th has to stop. The incitement and hatred against Israel breeds the terrorism and extremism which led to the brutal massacre of October 7th," Lapid wrote on X. The disgraceful glorification of October 7th has to stop. The incitement and hatred against Israel breeds the terrorism and extremism which led to the brutal massacre of October 7th. We expect the Jordanian government to condemn this publicly and unequivocaly https://t.co/KwyeqHAiXO — יאיר לפיד - Yair Lapid (@yairlapid) January 25, 2024 × “We expect the Jordanian government to condemn this publicly and unequivocally,” he added. According to local Israeli media reports, the restaurant was renovated in Al-Karak and decided on a name that glorified the unprecedented attacks that Hamas launched against Israeli sites on Oct 7, 2023. As per Israeli media outlets, Israeli-Jordanian ties took a hit after the war broke out between Israel and Hamas. The bilateral meetings have been suspended since then. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Watch | Jordanian restaurant named ‘October 7’ invites sharp criticism from Israel

<p>South African President Cyril Ramaphosa broke into celebration on Friday (Jan 26) along with his party members as the International Court of Justice (ICJ) ruled against Israel in the ongoing war against Hamas.</p>

<p>He was watching the World Court ruling live on a big screen.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">ANC President Cyril Ramaphosa breaks in celebration as the International Court of Justice rules against Israel <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ICJ?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ICJ</a> <a href="https://t.co/DmFmmzYXSl">pic.twitter.com/DmFmmzYXSl</a></p>
— Shazi (@NkosinathiShazi) <a href="https://twitter.com/NkosinathiShazi/status/1750865982325665838?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 26, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>South Africa's foreign ministry hailed the ruling by the UN's top court and called it a "decisive victory" for the international rule of law.</p>

<p>"Today marks a decisive victory for the international rule of law and a significant milestone in the search for justice for the Palestinian people," the foreign ministry said.</p>

<p>The International Court of Justice ruled in favour of South Africa's request to impose emergency measures against Israel over its military operations in Gaza.</p>

<p>The court ordered Israel to prevent acts of genocide against the Palestinians and do more to help civilians, in&nbsp;its war against Hamas militants in the Gaza Strip.</p>

<p>However, the court has not yet ruled on whether genocide occurred in Gaza, which was the&nbsp;very core of the case brought up by South Africa.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/5-key-takeaways-from-icj-order-in-gaza-genocide-case-against-israel-684019">5 key takeaways from ICJ order in Gaza genocide case against Israel</a></p>

<h2><strong>Israel must prevent actions violating Genocide Convention: ICJ</strong></h2>

<p>In its ruling, the ICJ said that it has taken into account the Israeli defence minister's comments regarding 'human animals' in Gaza. The court ruled that some of the acts and omissions committed by Israel are under the Genocide Convention's provisions. ICJ said that no evidence of genocide in Gaza must be destroyed.</p>

<p>The International Court of Justice has further ordered Israel to take all possible measures to prevent genocide and any kind of actions which fall under the scope of the Genocide Convention.</p>

<p>A case was filed by South Africa against Israel in the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in December, in which they had alleged that the devastating offensive against Hamas, in which 25,700 people were killed, amounted to state-led genocide and had breached the UN’s genocide convention, which was signed in 1948 in response to the Holocaust.</p>

<p>South Africa has appealed to the ICJ to impose nine orders on Israel which include immediate suspension of military activity and provide more access to humanitarian aid to war-torn Gaza.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


South African President Cyril Ramaphosa broke into celebration on Friday (Jan 26) along with his party members as the International Court of Justice (ICJ) ruled against Israel in the ongoing war against Hamas.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa broke into celebration on Friday (Jan 26) along with his party members as the International Court of Justice (ICJ) ruled against Israel in the ongoing war against Hamas. He was watching the World Court ruling live on a big screen. ANC President Cyril Ramaphosa breaks in celebration as the International Court of Justice rules against Israel #ICJ pic.twitter.com/DmFmmzYXSl — Shazi (@NkosinathiShazi) January 26, 2024 × South Africa's foreign ministry hailed the ruling by the UN's top court and called it a "decisive victory" for the international rule of law. "Today marks a decisive victory for the international rule of law and a significant milestone in the search for justice for the Palestinian people," the foreign ministry said. The International Court of Justice ruled in favour of South Africa's request to impose emergency measures against Israel over its military operations in Gaza. The court ordered Israel to prevent acts of genocide against the Palestinians and do more to help civilians, in its war against Hamas militants in the Gaza Strip. However, the court has not yet ruled on whether genocide occurred in Gaza, which was the very core of the case brought up by South Africa. Also read: 5 key takeaways from ICJ order in Gaza genocide case against Israel Israel must prevent actions violating Genocide Convention: ICJ In its ruling, the ICJ said that it has taken into account the Israeli defence minister's comments regarding 'human animals' in Gaza. The court ruled that some of the acts and omissions committed by Israel are under the Genocide Convention's provisions. ICJ said that no evidence of genocide in Gaza must be destroyed. The International Court of Justice has further ordered Israel to take all possible measures to prevent genocide and any kind of actions which fall under the scope of the Genocide Convention. A case was filed by South Africa against Israel in the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in December, in which they had alleged that the devastating offensive against Hamas, in which 25,700 people were killed, amounted to state-led genocide and had breached the UN’s genocide convention, which was signed in 1948 in response to the Holocaust. South Africa has appealed to the ICJ to impose nine orders on Israel which include immediate suspension of military activity and provide more access to humanitarian aid to war-torn Gaza. (With inputs from agencies)

WATCH | South African President Cyril Ramaphosa breaks into celebration as ICJ rules against Israel

<p>Billionaire Bernard Arnault has surpassed Tesla CEO Elon Musk to become the richest man in the world.&nbsp;</p>

<p>CEO of global luxury goods company LVMH, Arnault and his family’s net worth grew to $207.8 billion after an increase of &nbsp;$23.6 billion on Friday, exceeding Musk’s $204.5 billion mark, as per Forbes real-time billionaires list.</p>

<p>This comes after Tesla suffered a blow in the stock market on Thursday (Jan 25), plummeting to 13 per cent which made Musk lose more than $18 billion in net worth, according to a Forbes report.</p>

<p>On the other hand, LVMH shares rose by over 13 per cent on Friday around 11 am immediately after the news of strong sales surfaced.</p>

<p>LVMH's market cap reached $388.8 billion on Friday, compared to Tesla’s $586.14 billion market cap, as per Forbes.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/unrwa-fires-staff-members-linked-to-alleged-oct-7-attack-684100">UNRWA fires staff members linked to alleged Oct 7 attack</a></p>

<h2><strong>Tesla shares drop by 12 per cent</strong></h2>

<p>Tesla shares on Thursday dropped by over 12 per cent after Musk cautioned that the sales growth would go down despite slashing the prices that have already caused a dent in the margins of the world's most valuable automaker.</p>

<p>Musk on Wednesday said that growth would be "notably lower" as Tesla shifts its focus on making cheaper next-generation electric vehicles at its Texas factory in the second half of 2025.</p>

<p>However, he said that speeding up the production of the new model would pose challenges as it would involve the latest technologies.</p>

<p>"The Tesla headlines have essentially gone from bad to worse," said TD Cowen analysts, noting that the fourth-quarter revenue and profit were also below expectations.</p>

<p>"The problem for Tesla is any significant attempt to boost sales from here on will probably need to be achieved at the cost of further falls in operating margin, due to having to compete with BYD in China, as well as increased competition elsewhere," said Michael Hewson, chief market analyst at CMC Markets.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


Billionaire Bernard Arnault has surpassed Tesla CEO Elon Musk to become the richest man in the world. CEO of global luxury goods company LVMH, Arnault and his family’s net worth grew to $207.

Billionaire Bernard Arnault has surpassed Tesla CEO Elon Musk to become the richest man in the world. CEO of global luxury goods company LVMH, Arnault and his family’s net worth grew to $207.8 billion after an increase of $23.6 billion on Friday, exceeding Musk’s $204.5 billion mark, as per Forbes real-time billionaires list. This comes after Tesla suffered a blow in the stock market on Thursday (Jan 25), plummeting to 13 per cent which made Musk lose more than $18 billion in net worth, according to a Forbes report. On the other hand, LVMH shares rose by over 13 per cent on Friday around 11 am immediately after the news of strong sales surfaced. LVMH's market cap reached $388.8 billion on Friday, compared to Tesla’s $586.14 billion market cap, as per Forbes. Also read: UNRWA fires staff members linked to alleged Oct 7 attack Tesla shares drop by 12 per cent Tesla shares on Thursday dropped by over 12 per cent after Musk cautioned that the sales growth would go down despite slashing the prices that have already caused a dent in the margins of the world's most valuable automaker. Musk on Wednesday said that growth would be "notably lower" as Tesla shifts its focus on making cheaper next-generation electric vehicles at its Texas factory in the second half of 2025. However, he said that speeding up the production of the new model would pose challenges as it would involve the latest technologies. "The Tesla headlines have essentially gone from bad to worse," said TD Cowen analysts, noting that the fourth-quarter revenue and profit were also below expectations. "The problem for Tesla is any significant attempt to boost sales from here on will probably need to be achieved at the cost of further falls in operating margin, due to having to compete with BYD in China, as well as increased competition elsewhere," said Michael Hewson, chief market analyst at CMC Markets. (With inputs from agencies)

Bernard Arnault surpasses Elon Musk to become richest man in the world

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Zee News Rajasthan

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