The standoff between gunmen and Kosovo authorities at a monastery near the Serbian border ended on Sunday night (September 24), the interior minister in Pristina said, after police regained control of the area.&nbsp;

"We put this territory under control. It was done after several consecutive battles," Xhelal Svecla, the Minister of Internal Affairs, told reporters.

Kosovo police had released a statement saying that an officer and three gunmen had lost their lives in a shooting around the village of Banjska in the country's north on Sunday (September 24) after Pristina said around 30 attackers stormed the village.

Earlier, Prime Minister Albin Kurti released a statement saying that at least 30 gunmen were surrounded by authorities in north Kosovo and called for their surrender.

"There are at least 30 professional, military or police armed people who are surrounded by our police forces and whom I invite to surrender to our security agencies," said Kurti during a press conference.

He further added that the group was located in and around a monastery near the village of Banjska, where the patrol had been ambushed early on Sunday (September 24).

Kurti took to social media and said, "At this moment, gunfire with various calibre firearms against our police is still ongoing."

"The attackers are professionals wearing masks and heavily armed," he further wrote describing the incident.

The Serbia Orthodox Church released a statement confirming that the gunmen had stormed a monastery in Banjska&nbsp;where pilgrims from the northern Serbian city of Novi Sad were staying.&nbsp;

Kosovo police released a statement early on Sunday saying that two heavy vehicles without license plates were placed on a bridge in the village of Banjska, blockading the entrance and firing at the police units that arrived "with an arsenal of firearms, including hand grenades and arm launchers".

"We can see armed people in uniforms... they are firing on us and we are firing back," Kosovo police official Veton Elshan told news agency AFP telephonically from Banjska.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/philippines-accuses-china-of-installing-floating-barrier-in-south-china-sea-639147">Philippines accuses China of installing 'floating barrier' in South China Sea</a>

PM Kurti's comments came hours after he called the ambush an act of terrorism and condemned the Serbian government for it.&nbsp;

"Organised crime with political, financial and logistical support from officials in Belgrade is attacking our country," he wrote on social media.

Later, Serbian state media outlet RTS reported that Jarinje and Brnjak border crossings between Serbia and Kosovo were shut down.

<h2>Talks with Serbia have reached dead end, says Kurti</h2>

Talks between Kosovo and Serbia, that were brokered by the European Union, have reached a dead end, said Kurti as per The Guardian.

Kurti, in a conversation with the outlet, defined the latest unsuccessful meeting between him and the Serbian president Aleksandar Vučić, which took place on September 14, as a fiasco and said that the EU special envoy, Miroslav Lajčák, had “lost neutrality”.

“There is no moving further with this method,” Kurti said. “The 14 September [meeting] showed the limits of old methods.”

“He offends and curses in Serbian quite often throughout these two years,” Kurti said. “I asked the mediators to stop him and to condemn it but that never happens.”

<h2>EU condemns 'hideous attack'</h2>

The EU's top diplomat Josep Borrell fiercely condemned the "hideous attack" on Kosovo police that claimed the life of one officer.

"I condemn in the strongest possible terms the hideous attack by an armed gang against Kosovo police officers in Banjska/Banjske in the north of Kosovo, which left one police officer dead and two injured," he said in a statement, calling for the violence to cease.

"All facts about the attack need to be established. The responsible perpetrators must face justice," he said.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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The standoff between gunmen and Kosovo authorities at a monastery near the Serbian border ended on Sunday night (September 24), the interior minister in Pristina said, after police regained control of the area.

The standoff between gunmen and Kosovo authorities at a monastery near the Serbian border ended on Sunday night (September 24), the interior minister in Pristina said, after police regained control of the area. "We put this territory under control. It was done after several consecutive battles," Xhelal Svecla, the Minister of Internal Affairs, told reporters. Kosovo police had released a statement saying that an officer and three gunmen had lost their lives in a shooting around the village of Banjska in the country's north on Sunday (September 24) after Pristina said around 30 attackers stormed the village. Earlier, Prime Minister Albin Kurti released a statement saying that at least 30 gunmen were surrounded by authorities in north Kosovo and called for their surrender. "There are at least 30 professional, military or police armed people who are surrounded by our police forces and whom I invite to surrender to our security agencies," said Kurti during a press conference. He further added that the group was located in and around a monastery near the village of Banjska, where the patrol had been ambushed early on Sunday (September 24). Kurti took to social media and said, "At this moment, gunfire with various calibre firearms against our police is still ongoing." "The attackers are professionals wearing masks and heavily armed," he further wrote describing the incident. The Serbia Orthodox Church released a statement confirming that the gunmen had stormed a monastery in Banjska where pilgrims from the northern Serbian city of Novi Sad were staying. Kosovo police released a statement early on Sunday saying that two heavy vehicles without license plates were placed on a bridge in the village of Banjska, blockading the entrance and firing at the police units that arrived "with an arsenal of firearms, including hand grenades and arm launchers". "We can see armed people in uniforms... they are firing on us and we are firing back," Kosovo police official Veton Elshan told news agency AFP telephonically from Banjska. Also read: Philippines accuses China of installing 'floating barrier' in South China Sea PM Kurti's comments came hours after he called the ambush an act of terrorism and condemned the Serbian government for it. "Organised crime with political, financial and logistical support from officials in Belgrade is attacking our country," he wrote on social media. Later, Serbian state media outlet RTS reported that Jarinje and Brnjak border crossings between Serbia and Kosovo were shut down. Talks with Serbia have reached dead end, says Kurti Talks between Kosovo and Serbia, that were brokered by the European Union, have reached a dead end, said Kurti as per The Guardian. Kurti, in a conversation with the outlet, defined the latest unsuccessful meeting between him and the Serbian president Aleksandar Vučić, which took place on September 14, as a fiasco and said that the EU special envoy, Miroslav Lajčák, had “lost neutrality”. “There is no moving further with this method,” Kurti said. “The 14 September [meeting] showed the limits of old methods.” “He offends and curses in Serbian quite often throughout these two years,” Kurti said. “I asked the mediators to stop him and to condemn it but that never happens.” EU condemns 'hideous attack' The EU's top diplomat Josep Borrell fiercely condemned the "hideous attack" on Kosovo police that claimed the life of one officer. "I condemn in the strongest possible terms the hideous attack by an armed gang against Kosovo police officers in Banjska/Banjske in the north of Kosovo, which left one police officer dead and two injured," he said in a statement, calling for the violence to cease. "All facts about the attack need to be established. The responsible perpetrators must face justice," he said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Standoff between gunmen and Kosovo authorities at monastery ends

Three people, including two adults and a toddler aged three, were shot dead in a horrendous incident on Saturday night (September 23), during an argument that erupted over an apparent dog sale in Florida, said officials.

The shooting took place shortly after 10 pm&nbsp;at a Florida apartment complex. As per Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office Assistant Chief JD&nbsp;Stronko, the deputies responding to the reports of shots fired, found that two adults and a 3-year-old child were killed, while another adult had sustained injuries, according to the Florida Times-Union.

During a press conference, Stronko told reporters that five people, including the toddler, had travelled to the apartment complex over the sale of a dog, though it wasn't immediately clear if they were purchasing or selling the dog.

"For reasons that are unknown to us at this time, a dispute ensued in a breezeway between two of the apartment buildings resulting in four of the five individuals being shot. Of those individuals shot, three are now deceased. That includes the 3-year-old child who travelled there with them," Stronko said.

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&nbsp;

He then said that three out of four adult victims in the group were in their 20s.

Stronko did not elaborate on the seriousness of the wounds sustained by one of the victims. However, he indicated that the fifth victim was not hurt in the incident.

Witnesses at the scene of the crime told the police that they saw two men fleeing the scene in a car, and there was no more information available about the victims or suspects, said Stronko.

"The early indication is they did travel here for purposes of conducting a sale of a dog. But it is unknown whether that is going to be the final version of events we get when this all shakes out. But that is what we were told initially," he said.

He further added that the detectives were working to identify the victims as well as witnesses in order to collect more details about the circumstances of the shootings.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Three people, including two adults and a toddler aged three, were shot dead in a horrendous incident on Saturday night (September 23), during an argument that erupted over an apparent dog sale in Florida, said officials.

Three people, including two adults and a toddler aged three, were shot dead in a horrendous incident on Saturday night (September 23), during an argument that erupted over an apparent dog sale in Florida, said officials. The shooting took place shortly after 10 pm at a Florida apartment complex. As per Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office Assistant Chief JD Stronko, the deputies responding to the reports of shots fired, found that two adults and a 3-year-old child were killed, while another adult had sustained injuries, according to the Florida Times-Union. During a press conference, Stronko told reporters that five people, including the toddler, had travelled to the apartment complex over the sale of a dog, though it wasn't immediately clear if they were purchasing or selling the dog. "For reasons that are unknown to us at this time, a dispute ensued in a breezeway between two of the apartment buildings resulting in four of the five individuals being shot. Of those individuals shot, three are now deceased. That includes the 3-year-old child who travelled there with them," Stronko said. × He then said that three out of four adult victims in the group were in their 20s. Stronko did not elaborate on the seriousness of the wounds sustained by one of the victims. However, he indicated that the fifth victim was not hurt in the incident. Witnesses at the scene of the crime told the police that they saw two men fleeing the scene in a car, and there was no more information available about the victims or suspects, said Stronko. "The early indication is they did travel here for purposes of conducting a sale of a dog. But it is unknown whether that is going to be the final version of events we get when this all shakes out. But that is what we were told initially," he said. He further added that the detectives were working to identify the victims as well as witnesses in order to collect more details about the circumstances of the shootings. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Three-year-old, two adults shot dead in Florida over apparent sale of dog

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Sunday (September 24), during his episode of the monthly radio broadcast 'Mann Ki Baat', lauded Germany's Cassandra Mae Spittmann for pursuing her passion for Indian music.

In his address to the nation, PM Modi said, "Indian culture and Indian music are now global. More and more people worldwide are getting attracted to them."

PM Modi then played an Indian song crooned by Cassandra Mae.

"Such a melodious voice...and every word reflects emotions. We can also feel her attachment to God. You would be surprised to know that this voice is of a daughter from Germany. Her name is CassMae. 21-year-old Cassmae on Instagram is quite famous these days. German national Cassmae has never visited India. But, she is extremely fond of Indian music," PM Modi said after the song presentation.

Calling the German singer's passion "inspiring," he&nbsp;added, "Such interest of someone who has never visited India, is inspiring. Cassmae is visually impaired since birth. But this challenge could not stop her from achieving this extraordinary...her passion for music and creativity was such that she started singing in childhood itself."

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You will be spellbound hearing CassMae sing in Indian languages. She belongs to Germany and is visually impaired but that has not deterred her from pursuing her passion for music. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MannKiBaat?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MannKiBaat</a> <a href="https://t.co/XFN90yBxZZ">pic.twitter.com/XFN90yBxZZ</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1705867937993867286?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 24, 2023</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

PM Modi then said that not only does Cassandra sing in Hindi, but also in various other Indian languages.

"She was introduced to Indian music just 5-6 years back. Indian music fascinated her so much that she got completely engrossed in it. She has also learnt to play the Tabla. The most inspiring thing is that she has mastered singing in many Indian languages...Sanskrit, Hindi, Malayalam, Tamil, Kannada or Assamese, Bengali, Marathi, Urdu...she has sung in all of them," he said.

PM Modi, while sharing a song sung by Cassandra Mae in Kannada, said that he truly appreciates her love and passion for Indian culture and music.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-pm-modi-launches-9-new-vande-bharat-trains-emphasises-ease-of-travel-639126">India: PM Modi launches nine new Vande Bharat trains, emphasises on ‘ease of travel’</a>

"I wholeheartedly appreciate the passion of Germany's Cassandra Mae Spittmann for Indian culture and music. Her effort must be quite overwhelming for every Indian," he said.

Trade Minister Piyush Goyal also took to his official X handle and appreciated Cassandra Mae saying, "Such a delight to witness Cassandra Mae Spittmann’s profound love for Indian music &amp; Sanatan Dharma. Tune in for her melodious rendition of Shri Hari Stotram &amp; Shiva Panchakshara Stotram."

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संगीत को ना रोके दीवार, 
संगीत जाये सरहद के पार… 🇮🇳🎵🇩🇪 
 
Such a delight to witness Cassandra Mae Spittmann’s profound love for Indian music &amp; Sanatan Dharma. 
 
Tune in for her melodious rendition of Shri Hari Stotram &amp; Shiva Panchakshara Stotram. <a href="https://t.co/TY1OOy8L7K">pic.twitter.com/TY1OOy8L7K</a>
— Piyush Goyal (@PiyushGoyal) <a href="https://twitter.com/PiyushGoyal/status/1705918150557217233?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 24, 2023</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Cassandra Mae Spittmann instantly became a viral sensation after she shared several Tamil song covers and devotional songs. She has also been applauded for her accurate and flawless enunciation of the lyrics.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Sunday (September 24), during his episode of the monthly radio broadcast 'Mann Ki Baat', lauded Germany's Cassandra Mae Spittmann for pursuing her passion for Indian music.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Sunday (September 24), during his episode of the monthly radio broadcast 'Mann Ki Baat', lauded Germany's Cassandra Mae Spittmann for pursuing her passion for Indian music. In his address to the nation, PM Modi said, "Indian culture and Indian music are now global. More and more people worldwide are getting attracted to them." PM Modi then played an Indian song crooned by Cassandra Mae. "Such a melodious voice...and every word reflects emotions. We can also feel her attachment to God. You would be surprised to know that this voice is of a daughter from Germany. Her name is CassMae. 21-year-old Cassmae on Instagram is quite famous these days. German national Cassmae has never visited India. But, she is extremely fond of Indian music," PM Modi said after the song presentation. Calling the German singer's passion "inspiring," he added, "Such interest of someone who has never visited India, is inspiring. Cassmae is visually impaired since birth. But this challenge could not stop her from achieving this extraordinary...her passion for music and creativity was such that she started singing in childhood itself." You will be spellbound hearing CassMae sing in Indian languages. She belongs to Germany and is visually impaired but that has not deterred her from pursuing her passion for music. #MannKiBaat pic.twitter.com/XFN90yBxZZ — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) September 24, 2023 × PM Modi then said that not only does Cassandra sing in Hindi, but also in various other Indian languages. "She was introduced to Indian music just 5-6 years back. Indian music fascinated her so much that she got completely engrossed in it. She has also learnt to play the Tabla. The most inspiring thing is that she has mastered singing in many Indian languages...Sanskrit, Hindi, Malayalam, Tamil, Kannada or Assamese, Bengali, Marathi, Urdu...she has sung in all of them," he said. PM Modi, while sharing a song sung by Cassandra Mae in Kannada, said that he truly appreciates her love and passion for Indian culture and music. Also read: India: PM Modi launches nine new Vande Bharat trains, emphasises on ‘ease of travel’ "I wholeheartedly appreciate the passion of Germany's Cassandra Mae Spittmann for Indian culture and music. Her effort must be quite overwhelming for every Indian," he said. Trade Minister Piyush Goyal also took to his official X handle and appreciated Cassandra Mae saying, "Such a delight to witness Cassandra Mae Spittmann’s profound love for Indian music & Sanatan Dharma. Tune in for her melodious rendition of Shri Hari Stotram & Shiva Panchakshara Stotram." संगीत को ना रोके दीवार, संगीत जाये सरहद के पार… 🇮🇳🎵🇩🇪 Such a delight to witness Cassandra Mae Spittmann’s profound love for Indian music & Sanatan Dharma. Tune in for her melodious rendition of Shri Hari Stotram & Shiva Panchakshara Stotram. pic.twitter.com/TY1OOy8L7K — Piyush Goyal (@PiyushGoyal) September 24, 2023 × Cassandra Mae Spittmann instantly became a viral sensation after she shared several Tamil song covers and devotional songs. She has also been applauded for her accurate and flawless enunciation of the lyrics. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi lauds German singer Cassandra Mae during episode of 'Mann Ki Baat'

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met with the foreign minister of Armenia, Ararat Mirzoyan on the sidelines of the 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) on Sunday in New York.

Armenia and India's relations have been established since New Delhi recognized the independent Republic of Armenia on December 26, 1991, and after that, an ambassador in Moscow was concurrently accredited to Yerevan.

Earlier, in September, the India Eurasia Trade Council (IETC) organized the India-Armenia Conference 2022 in Bengaluru where participants discussed with the Ambassador of Armenia the issues and prospects of the bilateral economic cooperation and presented several interesting proposals aimed at jointly implementing them.

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On the sidelines of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UNGA78?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UNGA78</a> , met with <a href="https://twitter.com/AraratMirzoyan?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AraratMirzoyan</a> FM of Armenia. 
 
Appreciate his sharing assessment of the current situation in the Caucuses. Affirmed our strong bilateral relationship. <a href="https://t.co/QgtBiZVbE5">pic.twitter.com/QgtBiZVbE5</a>
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1705993120863654280?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 24, 2023</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Meanwhile, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar also met the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Elmedin Konaković in New York.

The World leaders, notably are in New York for the UNGA session that is taking place there currently.

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Good meeting with FM Elmedin Konakovic of Bosnia and Herzegovina on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UNGA78?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UNGA78</a> sidelines. 
 
Discussed growing our bilateral ties with focus on trade and economy. <a href="https://t.co/rqJfHXp7uL">pic.twitter.com/rqJfHXp7uL</a>
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1705992988596273583?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 24, 2023</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Notably, EAM Jaishankar is in New York to lead the Indian delegation for the UNGA session where he will address the United Nations General Assembly on September 26, according to an official statement by the Ministry of External Affairs. After concluding his visit to New York, he will travel to Washington, DC.

Earlier, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar along with United Nations General Assembly President Dennis Francis and foreign ministers of other nations arrived to attend the India-UN for Global South: Delivering for Development event. The event took place on Saturday(local time) in New York. The leaders posed for the pictures before the start of the event.&nbsp;

Jaishankar on Saturday (local time) held a bilateral meeting with Cambodia's Prime Minister Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Manet Hun on the sidelines of 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York. &nbsp;

He also held a meeting with Guinea Bissau counterpart Carlos Pereira and discussed expanding development partnership and enhancing trade and investment between two nations.&nbsp;

In a post shared on X, formerly known as Twitter, Jaishankar stated, "Good to meet FM Carlos Pereira of Guinea Bissau on #UNGA78 sidelines. Discussed expanding our development partnership and enhancing our trade and investment."&nbsp;

EAM S Jaishankar held a bilateral meeting with his Cyprus counterpart Constantinos Kombos here on Saturday on the margins of the 78th UNGA session. After shaking hands, both the leaders held bilateral talks in the presence of officials from both sides.&nbsp; 
Taking to X, Jaishankar stated, "Nice to meet Foreign Minister @ckombos of Cyprus this morning. Conveyed best wishes to President @Christodulides. Talked about follow-up steps to my visit last December. India’s interest in the Mediterranean is steadily growing. Cyprus will always be a valued partner."&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

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External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met with the foreign minister of Armenia, Ararat Mirzoyan on the sidelines of the 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) on Sunday in New York.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met with the foreign minister of Armenia, Ararat Mirzoyan on the sidelines of the 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) on Sunday in New York. Armenia and India's relations have been established since New Delhi recognized the independent Republic of Armenia on December 26, 1991, and after that, an ambassador in Moscow was concurrently accredited to Yerevan. Earlier, in September, the India Eurasia Trade Council (IETC) organized the India-Armenia Conference 2022 in Bengaluru where participants discussed with the Ambassador of Armenia the issues and prospects of the bilateral economic cooperation and presented several interesting proposals aimed at jointly implementing them. On the sidelines of #UNGA78 , met with @AraratMirzoyan FM of Armenia. Appreciate his sharing assessment of the current situation in the Caucuses. Affirmed our strong bilateral relationship. pic.twitter.com/QgtBiZVbE5 — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) September 24, 2023 × Meanwhile, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar also met the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Elmedin Konaković in New York. The World leaders, notably are in New York for the UNGA session that is taking place there currently. Good meeting with FM Elmedin Konakovic of Bosnia and Herzegovina on #UNGA78 sidelines. Discussed growing our bilateral ties with focus on trade and economy. pic.twitter.com/rqJfHXp7uL — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) September 24, 2023 × Notably, EAM Jaishankar is in New York to lead the Indian delegation for the UNGA session where he will address the United Nations General Assembly on September 26, according to an official statement by the Ministry of External Affairs. After concluding his visit to New York, he will travel to Washington, DC. Earlier, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar along with United Nations General Assembly President Dennis Francis and foreign ministers of other nations arrived to attend the India-UN for Global South: Delivering for Development event. The event took place on Saturday(local time) in New York. The leaders posed for the pictures before the start of the event. Jaishankar on Saturday (local time) held a bilateral meeting with Cambodia's Prime Minister Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Manet Hun on the sidelines of 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York. He also held a meeting with Guinea Bissau counterpart Carlos Pereira and discussed expanding development partnership and enhancing trade and investment between two nations. In a post shared on X, formerly known as Twitter, Jaishankar stated, "Good to meet FM Carlos Pereira of Guinea Bissau on #UNGA78 sidelines. Discussed expanding our development partnership and enhancing our trade and investment." EAM S Jaishankar held a bilateral meeting with his Cyprus counterpart Constantinos Kombos here on Saturday on the margins of the 78th UNGA session. After shaking hands, both the leaders held bilateral talks in the presence of officials from both sides. Taking to X, Jaishankar stated, "Nice to meet Foreign Minister @ckombos of Cyprus this morning. Conveyed best wishes to President @Christodulides. Talked about follow-up steps to my visit last December. India’s interest in the Mediterranean is steadily growing. Cyprus will always be a valued partner." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Jaishankar meets counterparts from Armenia, Bosnia and Herzegovina on sidelines of UNGA

Authorities in Iran released a statement claiming that they had neutralised 30 explosives that were meant to go off simultaneously in Tehran and also detained 28 terrorists that had connections with the terror group Islamic State and were involved in the terror plot, Iran's Tasnim news agency reported on Sunday (September 24), citing the intelligence ministry.

"Some of the members are of Islamic State (IS) and the perpetrators have a history of being affiliated with Takfiri groups in Syria, Afghanistan, Pakistan and the Kurdistan region of Iraq," Iran's intelligence ministry added in a statement.

The militant group has claimed several attacks that have taken place in Iran in the past, including the deadly twin bombings, that targeted Iran's parliament and the tomb of the Islamic Republic's founder, Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini in the year 2017.

Last year, in October, the Islamic State took responsibility for a mass shooting incident that took place at a Shiite Muslim shrine in Iran’s central city of Shiraz, leaving 13 people dead and 30 wounded.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-mass-exodus-underway-karabakhs-120000-armenians-to-leave-amid-fears-of-ethnic-cleansing-639178">Explained: Karabakh’s 120,000 Armenians to leave amid fears</a>

According to the judiciary’s Mizan Online news website, the two men involved in the attack, identified as Mohammad Ramez Rashidi and Naeem Hashem Qatali, were hanged in public.&nbsp;

Mizan said that Rashidi had confessed to having collaborated with IS to carry out the shooting in October. While the nationalities of the two men were not revealed, officials had previously said the attack involved people from other countries including neighbouring Afghanistan.&nbsp;

The Mizan also reported they had been convicted of “corruption on earth, armed rebellion and acting against national security” as well as “conspiracy against the security of the country,” reported AFP.&nbsp;

The duo was hanged at dawn on July 8 on a street near the shrine in Shiraz, reported IRNA, at the time. Meanwhile, three other defendants in the case were sentenced to prison for five, 15 and 25 years for being members of the extremist group IS, said Fars Chief Justice Kazem Moussavi, as per AFP.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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Authorities in Iran released a statement claiming that they had neutralised 30 explosives that were meant to go off simultaneously in Tehran and also detained 28 terrorists that had connections with the terror group Islamic State and were involved in the terror plot, Iran's Tasnim news agency reported on Sunday (September 24), citing the intelligence ministry.

Authorities in Iran released a statement claiming that they had neutralised 30 explosives that were meant to go off simultaneously in Tehran and also detained 28 terrorists that had connections with the terror group Islamic State and were involved in the terror plot, Iran's Tasnim news agency reported on Sunday (September 24), citing the intelligence ministry. "Some of the members are of Islamic State (IS) and the perpetrators have a history of being affiliated with Takfiri groups in Syria, Afghanistan, Pakistan and the Kurdistan region of Iraq," Iran's intelligence ministry added in a statement. The militant group has claimed several attacks that have taken place in Iran in the past, including the deadly twin bombings, that targeted Iran's parliament and the tomb of the Islamic Republic's founder, Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini in the year 2017. Last year, in October, the Islamic State took responsibility for a mass shooting incident that took place at a Shiite Muslim shrine in Iran’s central city of Shiraz, leaving 13 people dead and 30 wounded. Also read: Explained: Karabakh’s 120,000 Armenians to leave amid fears According to the judiciary’s Mizan Online news website, the two men involved in the attack, identified as Mohammad Ramez Rashidi and Naeem Hashem Qatali, were hanged in public. Mizan said that Rashidi had confessed to having collaborated with IS to carry out the shooting in October. While the nationalities of the two men were not revealed, officials had previously said the attack involved people from other countries including neighbouring Afghanistan. The Mizan also reported they had been convicted of “corruption on earth, armed rebellion and acting against national security” as well as “conspiracy against the security of the country,” reported AFP. The duo was hanged at dawn on July 8 on a street near the shrine in Shiraz, reported IRNA, at the time. Meanwhile, three other defendants in the case were sentenced to prison for five, 15 and 25 years for being members of the extremist group IS, said Fars Chief Justice Kazem Moussavi, as per AFP. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Iran foils terror plot, defuses 30 bombs in Tehran, arrests 28 terrorists

Israeli forces killed two Palestinians during a pre-dawn raid on Sunday (September 24) in the West Bank, said the Palestinian health ministry after the army confirmed that it disassembled a militant "operational command centre" in the occupied territory.&nbsp;

"Two Palestinians were killed by live Israeli bullets to the head" in the town of Tulkarem, the ministry said.

The army released a statement saying that one of its soldiers was "moderately injured by gunshot fragments" during clashes in Nur Shams refugee camp near the town.

The two killed in the raid were identified as Osaid Abu Ali, 21-year-old, and Abd al-Rahman Abu Daghash, 32-year-old, by the Palestinian health ministry

Palestinian militant group Hamas released a statement saying that "martyr Osaid Abu Ali" was one of its fighters.

The family of the other man, 32-year-old Abdel-Rahman Abu Daghash, said he had stepped onto the terrace of his house to observe what was going on when he was shot dead by a sniper.

"He went up to the rooftop to film the ambulances. He barely had the chance to look and the sniper targeted him," said his brother Mo'men Abu Daghash. "He has nothing to do with it and he has kids and his wife is about to give birth."

Ibrahim al-Nimer, a representative of the Palestinian Prisoners' Club advocacy group in the camp, told news agency AFP that "the army entered the camp after 2:00 am ... and demolished streets and some houses".

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-prime-minister-benjamin-netanyahu-under-fire-for-holding-up-map-erasing-palestine-during-un-speech-639024">Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu under fire for holding up map without Palestine during UN speech</a>

The army, in a statement, said that it had dismantled an "operational command centre" inside a building which "contained observation devices, computers and technological devices."

It said that the troops had also uncovered a large number of detonative devices during the raid.

"During the activity, suspects opened fire and hurled explosive devices at the forces, who responded with live fire. Hits were identified," the military said in a statement, adding that an Israeli soldier was moderately injured.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Israeli forces killed two Palestinians during a pre-dawn raid on Sunday (September 24) in the West Bank, said the Palestinian health ministry after the army confirmed that it disassembled a militant "operational command centre" in the occupied territory.

Israeli forces killed two Palestinians during a pre-dawn raid on Sunday (September 24) in the West Bank, said the Palestinian health ministry after the army confirmed that it disassembled a militant "operational command centre" in the occupied territory. "Two Palestinians were killed by live Israeli bullets to the head" in the town of Tulkarem, the ministry said. The army released a statement saying that one of its soldiers was "moderately injured by gunshot fragments" during clashes in Nur Shams refugee camp near the town. The two killed in the raid were identified as Osaid Abu Ali, 21-year-old, and Abd al-Rahman Abu Daghash, 32-year-old, by the Palestinian health ministry Palestinian militant group Hamas released a statement saying that "martyr Osaid Abu Ali" was one of its fighters. The family of the other man, 32-year-old Abdel-Rahman Abu Daghash, said he had stepped onto the terrace of his house to observe what was going on when he was shot dead by a sniper. "He went up to the rooftop to film the ambulances. He barely had the chance to look and the sniper targeted him," said his brother Mo'men Abu Daghash. "He has nothing to do with it and he has kids and his wife is about to give birth." Ibrahim al-Nimer, a representative of the Palestinian Prisoners' Club advocacy group in the camp, told news agency AFP that "the army entered the camp after 2:00 am ... and demolished streets and some houses". Also read: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu under fire for holding up map without Palestine during UN speech The army, in a statement, said that it had dismantled an "operational command centre" inside a building which "contained observation devices, computers and technological devices." It said that the troops had also uncovered a large number of detonative devices during the raid. "During the activity, suspects opened fire and hurled explosive devices at the forces, who responded with live fire. Hits were identified," the military said in a statement, adding that an Israeli soldier was moderately injured. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Israeli forces kill two Palestinians during raid on a refugee camp in West Bank

The High-level committee, which was recently constituted to examine the practicability of holding simultaneous elections, chaired by former president Ram Nath Kovind, held its very first meeting on Saturday (September 23).

As per a statement, the panel came to a conclusion to invite political parties and the Law Commission, to seek their views on holding synchronised polls in the country.

Earlier this month, the government had instructed the eight-member "high-level" panel to examine and make recommendations at the earliest on the issue of holding simultaneous elections to the Lok Sabha, state assemblies, municipalities and panchayats.

Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Amit Shah, Minister of State (Independent Charge) from the Ministry of Law and Justice Arjun Ram Meghwal, former Rajya Sabha leader of Opposition Ghulam Nabi Azad, former Chairman of the 15th Finance Commission NK Singh, former Lok Sabha Secretary General Subhash Kashyap, former Chief Vigilance Commissioner Sanjay Kothari attended the meeting. Senior Advocate Harish Salve joined the meeting virtually.

Congress leader in the Lok Sabha, Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury, was not present in the meeting, the statement noted.

After being named as a member of the panel, Chowdhury had written to Shah, "declining to serve on the committee".

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/justin-trudeau-made-a-huge-mistake-ex-pentagon-official-condemns-canadas-accusations-against-india-638803">‘Trudeau made a huge mistake’: Ex-Pentagon official slams Canada’s accusations</a>

"I have no hesitation whatsoever in declining to serve on the committee whose terms of reference have been prepared in a manner to guarantee its conclusions. It is, I am afraid, a total eyewash," Chowdhury had said in the letter.

In the meeting, the panel decided to invite recognised national parties, parties having governments in states, those having their representatives in Parliament and other recognised state parties "for seeking suggestions or viewpoints on the issue of simultaneous elections in the country".

In addition to this, the committee will also invite the Law Commission for its suggestions and standpoints on the issue of simultaneous elections, according to a statement issued by the law ministry.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been advocating for "One Nation, One Election", stating that this would save a lot of money and resources.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The High-level committee, which was recently constituted to examine the practicability of holding simultaneous elections, chaired by former president Ram Nath Kovind, held its very first meeting on Saturday (September 23).

The High-level committee, which was recently constituted to examine the practicability of holding simultaneous elections, chaired by former president Ram Nath Kovind, held its very first meeting on Saturday (September 23). As per a statement, the panel came to a conclusion to invite political parties and the Law Commission, to seek their views on holding synchronised polls in the country. Earlier this month, the government had instructed the eight-member "high-level" panel to examine and make recommendations at the earliest on the issue of holding simultaneous elections to the Lok Sabha, state assemblies, municipalities and panchayats. Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Amit Shah, Minister of State (Independent Charge) from the Ministry of Law and Justice Arjun Ram Meghwal, former Rajya Sabha leader of Opposition Ghulam Nabi Azad, former Chairman of the 15th Finance Commission NK Singh, former Lok Sabha Secretary General Subhash Kashyap, former Chief Vigilance Commissioner Sanjay Kothari attended the meeting. Senior Advocate Harish Salve joined the meeting virtually. Congress leader in the Lok Sabha, Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury, was not present in the meeting, the statement noted. After being named as a member of the panel, Chowdhury had written to Shah, "declining to serve on the committee". Also read: ‘Trudeau made a huge mistake’: Ex-Pentagon official slams Canada’s accusations "I have no hesitation whatsoever in declining to serve on the committee whose terms of reference have been prepared in a manner to guarantee its conclusions. It is, I am afraid, a total eyewash," Chowdhury had said in the letter. In the meeting, the panel decided to invite recognised national parties, parties having governments in states, those having their representatives in Parliament and other recognised state parties "for seeking suggestions or viewpoints on the issue of simultaneous elections in the country". In addition to this, the committee will also invite the Law Commission for its suggestions and standpoints on the issue of simultaneous elections, according to a statement issued by the law ministry. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been advocating for "One Nation, One Election", stating that this would save a lot of money and resources. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

High-level committee on 'One Nation, One Election' holds first meeting, to invite political parties for views

Eighteen Indian sailors stranded in violence-hit Yemen were brought back to India on Saturday (September 23).

The regional passport office in Mumbai took to its official social media handle 'X' and shared a post informing that the sailors had landed safely in the city.

"18 distressed Indian sailors stuck in Yemen brought back through relentless efforts of #MEA and Indian Embassies," it said.

"The seamen landed in Mumbai. Team MEA on the ground to facilitate arrival," it added.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
MEA🇮🇳 does it again! 
 
18 distressed Indian sailors stuck in Yemen brought back through relentless efforts of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MEA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MEA</a> and Indian Embassies. 
 
The seamen landed in Mumbai. Team MEA on ground to facilitate arrival.<a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MEAIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DrSJaishankar</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PMOIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/indiaindjibouti?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@indiaindjibouti</a><a href="https://twitter.com/IndianEmbRiyadh?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IndianEmbRiyadh</a> <a href="https://t.co/dnU8m8cxWQ">pic.twitter.com/dnU8m8cxWQ</a>
— RPO Mumbai (@rpomumbai) <a href="https://twitter.com/rpomumbai/status/1705539791985786980?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 23, 2023</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

As per news agency PTI reports, it is not yet clear as to how long the sailors were stranded in Yemen. The Indian embassy in Riyadh wrote on 'X' that the sailors had reached Aden on Friday (September 22) after relentless efforts by New Delhi for weeks.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/nia-seizes-sfj-chief-gurpatwant-singh-pannus-amritsar-and-chandigarh-properties-638875">NIA confiscates SFJ chief Gurpatwant Pannu’s Amritsar, Chandigarh properties</a>

"With the relentless efforts of our Embassies in Riyadh &amp; Dijibouti, for the past few weeks, 18 Indian sailors stuck at Nishtun Port finally reached Aden safely today," it said late Friday.

It further added: "We thank the Yemen Govt &amp; all local friends for their full support."

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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Eighteen Indian sailors stranded in violence-hit Yemen were brought back to India on Saturday (September 23). The regional passport office in Mumbai took to its official social media handle 'X' and shared a post informing that the sailors had landed safely in the city.

Eighteen Indian sailors stranded in violence-hit Yemen were brought back to India on Saturday (September 23). The regional passport office in Mumbai took to its official social media handle 'X' and shared a post informing that the sailors had landed safely in the city. "18 distressed Indian sailors stuck in Yemen brought back through relentless efforts of #MEA and Indian Embassies," it said. "The seamen landed in Mumbai. Team MEA on the ground to facilitate arrival," it added. MEA🇮🇳 does it again! 18 distressed Indian sailors stuck in Yemen brought back through relentless efforts of #MEA and Indian Embassies. The seamen landed in Mumbai. Team MEA on ground to facilitate arrival.@MEAIndia @DrSJaishankar @PMOIndia @indiaindjibouti@IndianEmbRiyadh pic.twitter.com/dnU8m8cxWQ — RPO Mumbai (@rpomumbai) September 23, 2023 × As per news agency PTI reports, it is not yet clear as to how long the sailors were stranded in Yemen. The Indian embassy in Riyadh wrote on 'X' that the sailors had reached Aden on Friday (September 22) after relentless efforts by New Delhi for weeks. Also read: NIA confiscates SFJ chief Gurpatwant Pannu’s Amritsar, Chandigarh properties "With the relentless efforts of our Embassies in Riyadh & Dijibouti, for the past few weeks, 18 Indian sailors stuck at Nishtun Port finally reached Aden safely today," it said late Friday. It further added: "We thank the Yemen Govt & all local friends for their full support." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

18 Indian sailors stranded in violence-hit Yemen brought back

The United States has said it is taking steps to impose visa restrictions on Bangladeshi nationals who are seen to be interfering in or "undermining" the upcoming democratic election process in the South Asian nation. 
 
General elections are supposed to be held in Bangladesh in late December or January 2024.

Reacting to the US announcement made on Friday, Bangladesh said though the development is "not a pleasing experience", Dhaka is "not worried" as it is doing nothing wrong.

"Today, the (US) Department of State is taking steps to impose visa restrictions on Bangladeshi individuals responsible for or complicit in undermining the democratic election process in Bangladesh," US State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said in a statement.

"These persons and members of their immediate family may be found ineligible for entry into the United States," the statement said.

Individuals, including members of law enforcement agencies, the ruling party, and the political opposition would come under the purview of the restriction as the "United States is committed to supporting free and fair elections in Bangladesh that are carried out in a peaceful manner," it said.

Miller said the US action reflects the continued commitment of America to support Bangladesh's goal of peacefully holding free and fair national elections, and to support those seeking to advance democracy globally.

US Under Secretary for Civilian Security, Democracy and Human Rights Uzra Zeya shared the announcement on her account on X, formerly Twitter, just hours after she met with Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who is currently in New York to join the UN General Assembly's annual meeting. 
 
Bryan Schiller, spokesperson of the US embassy in Dhaka, said the United States has by now enforced visa restrictions against some members of law enforcement agencies, ruling party officials and opposition activists.

The restrictions were imposed after the US cautiously reviewed the evidence against the individuals, he said.

Schiller, however, declined to disclose the names, calling the list "secret visa records". 
In a media briefing hours after the US announcement, Bangladesh's Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Shahriar Alam said his country has nothing to lose.

"We have nothing to lose, we are not worried about it because we are not doing anything wrong," he said.

The development is "not a pleasing experience" but "we have to go through it", he said. He said he expected the US government to enforce the new visa restriction policy after reviewing facts and figures in a fair manner.

The junior foreign minister said Washington has given Dhaka an idea of the number of individuals who will face the visa restrictions.&nbsp;

"What I can tell you is that the number is small," he said.

Alam said the government believes the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), Bangladesh's main opposition party, and its fundamentalist ally Jamaat-e-Islami appear more vulnerable to the US visa restrictions as they were involved in acts aimed at foiling the next election.

The BNP has been campaigning to restore a non-party caretaker government to oversee the elections, claiming that no polls under Hasina's administration would be free. 
It has staged a series of protests demanding Hasina's resignation to allow a non-party caretaker government to oversee the polls. 
 
The BNP and other opposition groups accuse the ruling Awami League of gross rights abuses like murders and forced disappearances, and corruption. The government has repeatedly denied the allegations.

The US had earlier questioned Bangladesh's human rights situation and political inclusiveness. Last year, it slapped visa restrictions on several current and former officials of the elite anti-crime Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) on charges of alleged extra-judicial killings.

Prime Minister Hasina had sternly criticised the US action, saying she believed America did not want her government to remain in power.

She had also hinted that the US wanted military access to St Martin's Island in the Bay of Bengal, an allegation denied by the State Department.

Friday's development came a day after the European Union (EU) said it would not deploy a full election observer team to Bangladesh, citing a lack of "necessary conditions".

EU ambassador Charles Whiteley on Thursday said the bloc would not deploy a "fully-fledged" observer mission. While the EU took into account budget constraints, it said the decision also "reflects the fact that at the present time, it is not sufficiently clear whether the necessary conditions will be met".

The EU is Bangladesh's largest trade partner. The 27-member bloc is the destination of more than half of the South Asian nation's USD 55 billion export merchandise.

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The United States has said it is taking steps to impose visa restrictions on Bangladeshi nationals who are seen to be interfering in or "undermining" the upcoming democratic election process in the South Asian nation.

The United States has said it is taking steps to impose visa restrictions on Bangladeshi nationals who are seen to be interfering in or "undermining" the upcoming democratic election process in the South Asian nation. General elections are supposed to be held in Bangladesh in late December or January 2024. Reacting to the US announcement made on Friday, Bangladesh said though the development is "not a pleasing experience", Dhaka is "not worried" as it is doing nothing wrong. "Today, the (US) Department of State is taking steps to impose visa restrictions on Bangladeshi individuals responsible for or complicit in undermining the democratic election process in Bangladesh," US State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said in a statement. "These persons and members of their immediate family may be found ineligible for entry into the United States," the statement said. Individuals, including members of law enforcement agencies, the ruling party, and the political opposition would come under the purview of the restriction as the "United States is committed to supporting free and fair elections in Bangladesh that are carried out in a peaceful manner," it said. Miller said the US action reflects the continued commitment of America to support Bangladesh's goal of peacefully holding free and fair national elections, and to support those seeking to advance democracy globally. US Under Secretary for Civilian Security, Democracy and Human Rights Uzra Zeya shared the announcement on her account on X, formerly Twitter, just hours after she met with Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who is currently in New York to join the UN General Assembly's annual meeting. Bryan Schiller, spokesperson of the US embassy in Dhaka, said the United States has by now enforced visa restrictions against some members of law enforcement agencies, ruling party officials and opposition activists. The restrictions were imposed after the US cautiously reviewed the evidence against the individuals, he said. Schiller, however, declined to disclose the names, calling the list "secret visa records". In a media briefing hours after the US announcement, Bangladesh's Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Shahriar Alam said his country has nothing to lose. "We have nothing to lose, we are not worried about it because we are not doing anything wrong," he said. The development is "not a pleasing experience" but "we have to go through it", he said. He said he expected the US government to enforce the new visa restriction policy after reviewing facts and figures in a fair manner. The junior foreign minister said Washington has given Dhaka an idea of the number of individuals who will face the visa restrictions. "What I can tell you is that the number is small," he said. Alam said the government believes the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), Bangladesh's main opposition party, and its fundamentalist ally Jamaat-e-Islami appear more vulnerable to the US visa restrictions as they were involved in acts aimed at foiling the next election. The BNP has been campaigning to restore a non-party caretaker government to oversee the elections, claiming that no polls under Hasina's administration would be free. It has staged a series of protests demanding Hasina's resignation to allow a non-party caretaker government to oversee the polls. The BNP and other opposition groups accuse the ruling Awami League of gross rights abuses like murders and forced disappearances, and corruption. The government has repeatedly denied the allegations. The US had earlier questioned Bangladesh's human rights situation and political inclusiveness. Last year, it slapped visa restrictions on several current and former officials of the elite anti-crime Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) on charges of alleged extra-judicial killings. Prime Minister Hasina had sternly criticised the US action, saying she believed America did not want her government to remain in power. She had also hinted that the US wanted military access to St Martin's Island in the Bay of Bengal, an allegation denied by the State Department. Friday's development came a day after the European Union (EU) said it would not deploy a full election observer team to Bangladesh, citing a lack of "necessary conditions". EU ambassador Charles Whiteley on Thursday said the bloc would not deploy a "fully-fledged" observer mission. While the EU took into account budget constraints, it said the decision also "reflects the fact that at the present time, it is not sufficiently clear whether the necessary conditions will be met". The EU is Bangladesh's largest trade partner. The 27-member bloc is the destination of more than half of the South Asian nation's USD 55 billion export merchandise. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

US says will impose visa restrictions on individuals 'undermining' Bangladesh elections

Russia's Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, on Saturday (September 23), said at a press conference that the peace deal proposed by Ukraine and the latest UN proposals to restore the Black Sea grain initiative were both "not realistic."

"It is completely not feasible," Lavrov said of a 10-point peace blueprint promoted by Kyiv. "It is not possible to implement this. It's not realistic and everybody understands this, but at the same time, they say this is the only basis for negotiations."

He then said that the dispute would be resolved on the battlefield if Ukraine and its Western allies stood by that stance.

Lavrov further elucidating Moscow's reasons behind leaving the Black Sea grain initiative, said that promises made to Russia, which included removing sanctions on a Russian bank and reconnecting it to the global SWIFT system, were not met.

He said the latest U.N. proposals to revive that export corridor for Ukrainian agricultural products were "simply not realistic".

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-army-breaks-through-russian-lines-in-south-says-general-638953">Ukrainian army breaks through Russian lines in south, claims general</a>

<h2>Lavrov accuses West of direct fighting in Ukraine</h2>

Lavrov also accused Western countries of direct fighting with Russia through their support to Ukraine.

He said that the Western powers had effectively entered direct war against Moscow by backing Ukraine.

"You can call it anything you want, but they are fighting with us, they are straight-up fighting with us. We call it a hybrid war, but that doesn't change things," Lavrov told a news conference at the United Nations. &nbsp;

<h2>Zelensky urges member nations to strip Russia of veto power in UNSC; Lavrov responds</h2>

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Wednesday (September 20) denounced the Russian invasion, calling it 'criminal' and urged other member nations to strip Moscow of its veto power.&nbsp;

“We should recognize that the U.N. finds itself in a deadlock on the matter of aggression. Humankind no longer pins its hopes on the U.N. when it comes to the defence of the sovereign border of nations,” he said.

"Veto power in the hands of the aggressor is what has pushed the UN into a deadlock. It is impossible to stop the war because all efforts are vetoed by the aggressor or those who condone the aggressor," Zelensky continued.

After Zelensky's speech, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov defended his country's veto power in the UNSC as a "legitimate tool" of international relations.

"The use of veto is an absolutely legitimate tool laid out in the (UN) Charter," said Lavrov.&nbsp;

The Russian leader also accused the US and its allies of “egregiously and openly” interfering in the domestic affairs of Ukraine since the collapse of the Soviet Union.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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Russia's Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, on Saturday (September 23), said at a press conference that the peace deal proposed by Ukraine and the latest UN proposals to restore the Black Sea grain initiative were both "not realistic.

Russia's Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, on Saturday (September 23), said at a press conference that the peace deal proposed by Ukraine and the latest UN proposals to restore the Black Sea grain initiative were both "not realistic." "It is completely not feasible," Lavrov said of a 10-point peace blueprint promoted by Kyiv. "It is not possible to implement this. It's not realistic and everybody understands this, but at the same time, they say this is the only basis for negotiations." He then said that the dispute would be resolved on the battlefield if Ukraine and its Western allies stood by that stance. Lavrov further elucidating Moscow's reasons behind leaving the Black Sea grain initiative, said that promises made to Russia, which included removing sanctions on a Russian bank and reconnecting it to the global SWIFT system, were not met. He said the latest U.N. proposals to revive that export corridor for Ukrainian agricultural products were "simply not realistic". Also read: Ukrainian army breaks through Russian lines in south, claims general Lavrov accuses West of direct fighting in Ukraine Lavrov also accused Western countries of direct fighting with Russia through their support to Ukraine. He said that the Western powers had effectively entered direct war against Moscow by backing Ukraine. "You can call it anything you want, but they are fighting with us, they are straight-up fighting with us. We call it a hybrid war, but that doesn't change things," Lavrov told a news conference at the United Nations. Zelensky urges member nations to strip Russia of veto power in UNSC; Lavrov responds Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Wednesday (September 20) denounced the Russian invasion, calling it 'criminal' and urged other member nations to strip Moscow of its veto power. “We should recognize that the U.N. finds itself in a deadlock on the matter of aggression. Humankind no longer pins its hopes on the U.N. when it comes to the defence of the sovereign border of nations,” he said. "Veto power in the hands of the aggressor is what has pushed the UN into a deadlock. It is impossible to stop the war because all efforts are vetoed by the aggressor or those who condone the aggressor," Zelensky continued. After Zelensky's speech, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov defended his country's veto power in the UNSC as a "legitimate tool" of international relations. "The use of veto is an absolutely legitimate tool laid out in the (UN) Charter," said Lavrov. The Russian leader also accused the US and its allies of “egregiously and openly” interfering in the domestic affairs of Ukraine since the collapse of the Soviet Union. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Russian FM says bid to revive Black Sea grain deal 'not realistic', accuses West of direct fighting in Ukraine

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, on Friday (September 22), while addressing the 78th Session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York City, held up a map of 'The New Middle East' without Palestine.

'The New Middle East' illustration showed the West Bank and Gaza within the boundaries of Israel.

He displayed two maps during his speech, one depicted Israel's geography in 1948, accentuating its seclusion in the Middle East without the allies.&nbsp;

The second illustration included countries that have peace agreements with Israel, which included Egypt, Sudan, UAE, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and Jordan.

In his speech, he underlined the significance of bolstering ties with Arab countries, with a special emphasis on Saudi Arabia.

After his address, he took to social media platform X and wrote, “The greatest achievement in my life is to fight for you (the Israeli people) and for our country. Shabbat Shalom.”

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הזכות הגדולה של חיי היא להיאבק למענכם, למען המדינה שלנו. שבת שלום. 
 
(צילום: אבי אוחיון, לע״מ) <a href="https://t.co/O8qmKIIeUv">pic.twitter.com/O8qmKIIeUv</a>
— Benjamin Netanyahu - בנימין נתניהו (@netanyahu) <a href="https://twitter.com/netanyahu/status/1705234335928811904?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 22, 2023</a></blockquote>
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As per the Jerusalem Post, Netanyahu used the map to show a new era of peace in the Middle East that would include Palestine, however, his staunch critics say that the illustration conveyed the opposite of what was intended.

Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-prime-minister-benjamin-netanyahu-says-country-on-cusp-of-normalizing-ties-with-saudi-arabia-638668"> </a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-prime-minister-benjamin-netanyahu-says-country-on-cusp-of-normalizing-ties-with-saudi-arabia-638668">Netanyahu issues 'nuclear' threat to Iran, then retracts; says Israel on 'cusp' of normalising ties with Saudi</a>

Americans for Peace Now CEO Hadar Susskind posted on X, “Netanyahu is returning to his government of fascists, felons, and fundamentalists, which in both action and words contradict&nbsp;his bogus rhetoric of peace.”

“His map of Greater Israel is perhaps the only honest part of his speech today,” Susskind wrote in a post.

<h2>Netanyahu under fire on social media</h2>

The Israeli prime minister was widely denounced on social media for holding up the specific illustration.

The Palestinian Authority’s representative to Germany Laith Arafeh shared a post on X saying, “No greater insult to every foundational principle of the UN than seeing Netanyahu display before the UNGA a “map of Israel” that straddles the entire land from the river to the sea.”

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No greater insult to every foundational principle of the United Nations than seeing Netanyahu display before the UNGA a “map of Israel” that straddles the entire land from the river to the sea, negating Palestine and its people, then attempting to spin the audience with rhetoric… <a href="https://t.co/nJUGgaNpDD">pic.twitter.com/nJUGgaNpDD</a>
— Laith Arafeh 🇵🇸 (@ArafehLaith) <a href="https://twitter.com/ArafehLaith/status/1705228310215532627?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 22, 2023</a></blockquote>
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“Palestine and its people” while “attempting to spin the audience with rhetoric about “peace” in the region, all the while entrenching the longest ongoing belligerent occupation in today’s world,” he said.

“But as H.E. President Mahmoud Abbas already responded yesterday: “Delusional are those who think peace in the region is possible without the realisation of the full legitimate rights of the Palestinian people,” he further added.

Netanyahu, on Friday (September 22), told the United Nations that his country was on the "cusp" of normalising ties with Saudi Arabia.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, on Friday (September 22), while addressing the 78th Session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York City, held up a map of 'The New Middle East' without Palestine.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, on Friday (September 22), while addressing the 78th Session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York City, held up a map of 'The New Middle East' without Palestine. 'The New Middle East' illustration showed the West Bank and Gaza within the boundaries of Israel. He displayed two maps during his speech, one depicted Israel's geography in 1948, accentuating its seclusion in the Middle East without the allies. The second illustration included countries that have peace agreements with Israel, which included Egypt, Sudan, UAE, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and Jordan. In his speech, he underlined the significance of bolstering ties with Arab countries, with a special emphasis on Saudi Arabia. After his address, he took to social media platform X and wrote, “The greatest achievement in my life is to fight for you (the Israeli people) and for our country. Shabbat Shalom.” הזכות הגדולה של חיי היא להיאבק למענכם, למען המדינה שלנו. שבת שלום. (צילום: אבי אוחיון, לע״מ) pic.twitter.com/O8qmKIIeUv — Benjamin Netanyahu - בנימין נתניהו (@netanyahu) September 22, 2023 × As per the Jerusalem Post, Netanyahu used the map to show a new era of peace in the Middle East that would include Palestine, however, his staunch critics say that the illustration conveyed the opposite of what was intended. Also read: Netanyahu issues 'nuclear' threat to Iran, then retracts; says Israel on 'cusp' of normalising ties with Saudi Americans for Peace Now CEO Hadar Susskind posted on X, “Netanyahu is returning to his government of fascists, felons, and fundamentalists, which in both action and words contradict his bogus rhetoric of peace.” “His map of Greater Israel is perhaps the only honest part of his speech today,” Susskind wrote in a post. Netanyahu under fire on social media The Israeli prime minister was widely denounced on social media for holding up the specific illustration. The Palestinian Authority’s representative to Germany Laith Arafeh shared a post on X saying, “No greater insult to every foundational principle of the UN than seeing Netanyahu display before the UNGA a “map of Israel” that straddles the entire land from the river to the sea.” No greater insult to every foundational principle of the United Nations than seeing Netanyahu display before the UNGA a “map of Israel” that straddles the entire land from the river to the sea, negating Palestine and its people, then attempting to spin the audience with rhetoric… pic.twitter.com/nJUGgaNpDD — Laith Arafeh 🇵🇸 (@ArafehLaith) September 22, 2023 × “Palestine and its people” while “attempting to spin the audience with rhetoric about “peace” in the region, all the while entrenching the longest ongoing belligerent occupation in today’s world,” he said. “But as H.E. President Mahmoud Abbas already responded yesterday: “Delusional are those who think peace in the region is possible without the realisation of the full legitimate rights of the Palestinian people,” he further added. Netanyahu, on Friday (September 22), told the United Nations that his country was on the "cusp" of normalising ties with Saudi Arabia. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu under fire for holding up map without Palestine during UN speech

In a shocking development amidst strained diplomatic ties between India and Canada over the death of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, videos from South Carolina, US, have been doing rounds on social media that show alleged protests over the removal of slain militant leader Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale's portrait from a gurdwara.

Bhindranwale was the leader of the Sikh religious sect Damdami Taksal. He, along with his armed followers, were killed during Operation Blue Star which was launched by the Indian Army at the Golden Temple complex to flush out heavily-armed extremists.

In one of the videos circulating on the internet, a man claims that a picture of Bhindranwale, whom he refers to as a martyr, was removed from the langar hall of the gurdwara after alleged voting by the members of the religious committee.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/justin-trudeau-made-a-huge-mistake-ex-pentagon-official-condemns-canadas-accusations-against-india-638803">‘Trudeau made a huge mistake’: Ex-Pentagon official slams Canada’s accusations</a>

He further goes on to urge other gurdwara member bodies to refrain from implementing such procedures, specifically hinting out at the polling system, and follow the religious norms.

Another video that went viral, the veracity of which cannot be independently verified by WION, purportedly shows people staging a demonstration over the removal of the portrait.&nbsp;

In the video, people can be seen holding slogans that read 'portraits scare away the enemies'.

As per the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC), an organisation responsible for management of Sikh places of worship, the ten Gurus of the faith are Guru Nanak, Guru Angad, Guru Amar Das, Guru Ram Das, Guru Arjan Dev, Guru Hargobind, Guru Har Rai, Guru Har Krishan, Guru Tegh Bahadur, Guru Gobind Singh.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

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In a shocking development amidst strained diplomatic ties between India and Canada over the death of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, videos from South Carolina, US, have been doing rounds on social media that show alleged protests over the removal of slain militant leader Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale's portrait from a gurdwara.

In a shocking development amidst strained diplomatic ties between India and Canada over the death of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, videos from South Carolina, US, have been doing rounds on social media that show alleged protests over the removal of slain militant leader Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale's portrait from a gurdwara. Bhindranwale was the leader of the Sikh religious sect Damdami Taksal. He, along with his armed followers, were killed during Operation Blue Star which was launched by the Indian Army at the Golden Temple complex to flush out heavily-armed extremists. In one of the videos circulating on the internet, a man claims that a picture of Bhindranwale, whom he refers to as a martyr, was removed from the langar hall of the gurdwara after alleged voting by the members of the religious committee. Also read: ‘Trudeau made a huge mistake’: Ex-Pentagon official slams Canada’s accusations He further goes on to urge other gurdwara member bodies to refrain from implementing such procedures, specifically hinting out at the polling system, and follow the religious norms. Another video that went viral, the veracity of which cannot be independently verified by WION, purportedly shows people staging a demonstration over the removal of the portrait. In the video, people can be seen holding slogans that read 'portraits scare away the enemies'. As per the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC), an organisation responsible for management of Sikh places of worship, the ten Gurus of the faith are Guru Nanak, Guru Angad, Guru Amar Das, Guru Ram Das, Guru Arjan Dev, Guru Hargobind, Guru Har Rai, Guru Har Krishan, Guru Tegh Bahadur, Guru Gobind Singh. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

US: People protest in South Carolina over removal of slain militant leader’s portrait from gurdwara

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